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Free Skye!

I am attempting to read all the way through this (currently just finishing page 7) and I just wanted to comment that I love this format. I've read your bulletted format all the way through a few times and loved it but this has so much more detail its quite amazing, you really take time with every year and try to develop every faction and as a reader I appreciate it!

Glad you are enjoying, I think I've over done some parts but most works

Yeah these are great.

More coming...

SLS Wild Scream
Pirate Point, Sol System
Star League Protectorate
9th April 3080

   In an empty piece of space just outside the orbit of Mercury in the Sol system the SLS Wild Scream sat and waited.  Although the newly refitted Patriot-class vessel was still officially on a shakedown cruise it had been called on to answer the call and assist in this delicate mission.  The Ship's Captain, Garret Cooper, had been ordered to rendezvous with a SLDF Diplomatic Shuttle and wait at these coordinates until further notice the Wild Scream had sat here in dead space well off regular routes to the Nadir point for eighteen hours now and it was becoming slightly tiresome.  "Anything from Terra?"

   "Negative sir, we are still fully black on communications as per orders, as far as they are concerned we don't exist."  His communications specialist reported Garret was half tempted to go below decks and personally question the SLDF Diplomat in guest quarters about this waiting game.

   "Sir, radiation spike, we have an incoming vessel."

   "Strange place to be coming in, have gun crews stand by."

   "Belay that Captain" Star League Council Representative Mason McRae said floating into the Wild Screams Command Centre.

   "Mr McRae, you do not issue orders on my ship."  The Commander said pleased to notice his crew continuing to make preparations.

   "Captain, this is a sensitive mission our visitors may not appreciate weapons being thrust into their face."

   "Mr McRae, again I say this is Star League space and they will like it or lump it."  The Captain said there was several moments of silence on the bridge as preparations continued.  Three minutes later there was another radiation flare accompanied by a flash of light and the appearance of another ship.  "Analysis" the captain ordered glancing at his external camera feeds.

   "Sir, the vessel appears to be a Volga-class Transport definitely Clan in origin. Ninety percent certain it's the Bold Venture, Clan Sea Fox."  The sensor operator said glancing over at his Captain who turned to observe Mason McRae smile, obviously what he had expected.

   "Captain Cooper, prepare to receive a single Clan Sea Fox DropShip at one of this ship's docking ports and ask a squad of marines to meet me at the hatch.  Once they are attached set a course for the Vision of Truth wreck."

   "What exactly is this McRae? Clansmen in the Sol System."

   "They are here to begin work on the Vision of Truth, the Council has decided to make something of it instead of letting it drift out there.  The Bold Venture is going nowhere.  We will take their DropShip to the Vision of Truth and return them when they have finished with the wreck."

   "And what is to stop the Bold Venture sneaking away and striking at Terra while our back is turned?"

   "Two Starward Satellites have been secreted in the area, the Bold Venture knows this and any attempt by it to move or interfere with Sol System operations is being monitored.  If they decided to move we have assets in the area that will take care of them including two stealth equipped nuclear warheads.  The Wild Scream is here only as a deterrent."  He said turning and leaving the Command Centre.  Garret cursed that his ship was being treated so poorly, it was tough being the new ship in the fleet.
 
Training Grounds
Defiance, Crucis March
Federated Suns
12th April 3080

   Contest between Clan Nova Cat's Second Watch Cluster and First Defiance Training Battalion on Defiance in the Federated Suns.  The Second Watch Cluster fields several Inner Sphere OmniMech designs retrofitted with Clan technology.  This surprising firepower catches out the Federated Suns MechWarriors and they are easily beaten by the Nova Cat force.

   In addition to this meeting of the Federated Suns and Nova Cat forces a combined arms squadron from the Wild Geese Mercenary Regiment, which are on planet using Defiance’s advanced training environments, take part in a gunnery competition with several Nova Cat warriors.  The Wild Geese warriors prove themselves a match for the Nova Cats eventually Corporal Jasper Cooper piloting his ARC-9M Archer BattleMech beating MechWarrior Tamara, a Nova Cat Warrior piloting a new Nova Cat Sphinx BattleMech in the final trial.  Tamara refuses to accept the defeat for Clan Nova Cat instead becoming the bondsman of the victorious Wild Geese, despite the Wild Geese Commander’s refusal of her choice to join.  When the Nova Cat commander refuses to accept Tamara back into his command the Wild Geese are stuck with her and her BattleMech.

Capellan Shipyards
Trznadel Star Cluster
Magistracy of Canopus Commonality
Capellan Confederation
19th April 3080

   Built in secret even from local Canopian leaders a new Capellan Confederation Shipyard opens in the volatile Trznadel Star Cluster region of the Magistracy of Canopus.  This shipyard will be capable of producing WarShips and JumpShips and will be defended by the Hell's Black Aces until sufficient Battle Armour and Aerospace Assets can be assigned.  Work begins at the shipyards beginning to lay down the keel of the next Feng Huang-class Cruiser.

New Earth Trading Company
New Earth, Lyran Commonwealth
Star League Protectorate
24th April 3080

   Star League High Command announces that New Earth will be the permanent base world of the First Special Operations Group, they have been based on the world since the Mopelia Island Attacks.  At present SLDF and various Aid personnel outnumber civilians by 3-to-1.  With building work planned on a Disease Control Facility and a new HPG complex the Star League tries to promote growth by buying a large stake into New Earth Trading Company, which is based on the world and has been since the First Star League.  As they have effectively bought the company and nationalized it as an SLDF resource by the move the make the company a primary producer for the SLDF producing vehicles and plan to expand the current production lines brining in additional workers to help run the company.

Throne Room
Hasek Family Residence, New Syrtis
Capellan March, Federated Suns
9th June 3080

   When it came to Nathaniel Hasek's job he like it for the most part.  As a Field Marshal in the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns he had many duties that he was required to perform however there was one thing that he did not enjoy.  Since the passing of George Hasek he had inherited the position as head of the Capellan March, at least until George's heir was old enough and had enough interest in running the show.  So instead of her sitting on the New Syrtis throne Nathaniel found himself there as a new Mercenary Commander tried to woo him with an offer for them to work in the Capellan March.

   Entering the throne room walking past the two sentry Cavalier Battle Armour suits were two women with dark hair in business suits with another woman between them wearing a business cut white skirt and jacket her blond hair tied back with a single hair band.  As they approached the Field Marshal thought this was perhaps the negotiating team however the woman spoke before even he could greet them "Field Marshal Hasek, my name is Karen Clinton, I am commander of the Clinton's Cutthroats."  Nathaniel almost fell off his chair Clinton's Cutthroats had been a mercenary command that had served the Federated Suns two centuries ago before disappearing in unusual circumstances in 2866 as far as Nathaniel could remember form his military history the Cutthroats had never been seen again and were still wanted by the AFFS.

   "Commander Clinton, you are aware that Clinton's Cutthroats are wanted by the AFFS for breach of contract over two hundred years ago?"  He asked carefully as he spoke he noticed the Cavalier Battle Armoured Sentries stand ready.

   "I am aware of this technicality.  And we are willing to answer for this charge.  However we are also willing to provide the Hasek Family, who I believe were the aggrieved party, all those years ago, with a Colossus-class DropShip full of equipment to compensate for your loss Liz please."  She said glancing over at one of the other women.  She stepped forward handing over a list of the DropShip would carry Nathaniel almost fell over for a second time it was an impressive list of Royal-type Star League era BattleMechs.

   "What is it you are looking for commander?"

   "If the Hasek family could bring itself to drop the charges against my unit, we are willing to work for you again on a one year rolling contract basis.  I have a single Monolith-class JumpShip with nine DropShips including the ship I will be gifting you.  My forces include three Reinforced Battalions of BattleMechs, one Battalion of Armoured vehicles which includes artillery, a security force of standard infantry and two wings of aerospace fighters.  All our technology is of Star League-era vintage and some is from other sources we have found."

   "Other sources?"  he asked trying to dig into the mystery surrounding the unit.

   "Sources we are unwilling to divulge."  Liz said with a small smile.

   "Ah yes, so you want to work and you want to bribe me with this DropShip and equipment" Liz opened her mouth in reply but Nathaniel rose a hand to silence her "I accept your terms.  Your unit is to remain at the Nadir Point until we have a posting for you."

   "Thank you, Field Marshal.  One final question if I may?"  Nathaniel nodded "we have been away for a long time, we were looking at some of the technology we seen on the way in Heavy personal armour and Mechs with variable weapons we were hoping to perhaps buy some?"

   "The 'heavy personal armour' you mention is called Battle Armour that particular model" he said indicating to the Sentries "is the Cavalier the local Federated Suns mass production model.  "The Mechs with modular weapons are called OmniMechs; the locally produced model is the Templar an eighty-five ton design."

   "Would we be permitted to purchase samples?"

   "Complete your first year contract and I will allow you to buy all the Cavaliers and Templars you can afford."  Nathaniel promised Karen Clinton smiled saluted, turned and briskly left the throne room.  Nathaniel immediately put a call into the DMI and MIIO, the Federated Suns Intelligence Operations departments informing them of Clinton's Cutthroats resurfacing while at the same time he diverted the new Colossus and its equipment to his family estates on New Syrtis immediately coming up with a plan for it.

Terran Defence Council
Unity City, Terra
Star League Protectorate
11th June 3080

   Standing in the large meeting room within on of Unity Cities newly reopened Star League Governmental buildings SLDF Admiral David Natale stood ahead of Star League Commanding General Archer Christifori, Governor of Terra Gavin Dow, Lord James Cavannah, the head of Terran construction, High Commissioner Jillian Elton and several leading Terran Senators.   Included in their numbers was Duke Christopher Windsor-Cameron who according to rumour was pushing for a planetary election which would see Gavin Dow replaced as Governor of Terra.

   â€œLadies and Gentlemen, what I am about to say is classed as Top Secret – Black.”  He began many things were classified, the names of the SAS Units and their deployments.  Few things were categorized as “Black” under the new rule of the Star League on Terra “Top Secret – Black” items were one of the few things that could encure the death penalty if revealed.  “In December 3079 Dr. David Lear led a scientific team into the Kuiper Belt of the Sol System after discovering some information in one of the vaults uncovered within Unity City.”  He explained “this mission was authorized by my office and financed through Dr. Lear’s considerable personal funds.”  Many of them had already known of the mission, the Doctor son of Kai Allard-Liao had come to Terra to lecture and study at Chicago University.  Something which had not lasted too long as his inquisitive mind had led him on a treasure hunt.  “In the Kuiper Belt hidden for the centuries since the fall of the first Star League was a Casper research facility.”

   â€œOh god” Jillian Elton whispered, a native of Terra she’d heard all about the Casper legends throughout the years.

   â€œIndeed” David agreed, as a career spacer he’d heard horror stories of the Casper Drones for as long as anyone else.  Artificially Controlled Drones that could think and fight by themselves even self repair some of their own systems.  “Doctor Lear discovered this facility was defended by three Lola-class Casper Drones, also known as the M5 Capital Drone, and a single Newgrange-class Yardship all of which were fully operational although the Newgrange was in a standby-mode.”  David Natale explained “what Doctor Lear did not discover was the primary research facility hidden on a frozen rock nearby nor the M-9 “Pavise” Defence Station and its attached defence drone DropShips and Drone fighters.”

   â€œA complete nightmare, a drone fleet” Duke Christopher Winsor-Cameron said quietly.

   â€œThe Star League Defence Force has confirmed that these drones will not fire on any vessel and that the defence vessels are there purely as a deterant they have no directives to head into the Terran system or carry out any duty other than defend the facility.”

   â€œCan we be sure these things are no threat? Caspers were known to have their own directives.”  Gavin Dow asked

   â€œNot completely certain however we can be certain they will not attack a Star League vessel and they went out of their way not to destroy a civilian vessel only firing warning shots.  They have also refused to leave their designated patrol area.  Unfortunately our teams have also been completely unable to access any of the vessels, station or research facility other than the Newgrange.”  David continued.

   â€œSo they sit out there useless until we can board them and find out exactly what the purpose of the facility was.” Dow pondered for a moment “what is the Star League’s position on these finds?”  He asked looking towards Archer Christifori, who so far had remaind quiet.

   â€œThe SLDF currently is keeping an on the facility, and we’d expect to be kept in the loop for all developments in regards to these vessels and any further developments of the Technology.”  He said quietly “but this is a Terran matter not one for the wider Star League” he began turning to look at High Commissioner Elton.

   â€œFrom a legal perspective” she said carefully “under the new Star League laws written when this League was formed the SLDF can assist in defensive matters and in military development but there is no need for any state to disclose exactly what they are working or where there bases are.  As Terra has been recoignized as the “Capitol” of the Star League Protectorate, the Protectorate would have no need to show its secrets.”

   â€œWhat of Dr. Lear?”  Christopher Windsor-Cameron asked “he is next in line for the throne of the St Ives Compact.  Should he disclose this information we would have little way of stopping him.”

   â€œI have spoken with Duke David Lear” Archer Christifori said “he has agreed to keep quiet about the discovery of these vessels and has wiped all information from the DropShip he used during his expedition.  However he has named his price, assuming the SLDF can remove it from the research facility; Dr Lear wants possession of the Newgrange-class Yardship.”

   â€œProposterous!” Gavin Dow almost shouted “that ship would help put the Terran… SLDF Navy back to where it belongs to be at the forefront of the Inner Sphere.  In the St Ives Compact it would be wasted.”

   â€œIt would be a small price to pay if the Succession Lords all found out about them.  Everyone would want a piece of the pie.”  David Natale reminded the Governor “as a price goes it isn’t too bad.  Titan is facilitating the SLDF Navy’s recovery very well, and its capabilities improve every year.”

   â€œWe should have further facilities availiable by the end of the year” Lord James Cavannah said qietly. “Unfortunately assuming we get into this research facility and space station my structural engineers will need to be taken from other projects to assist and ensure they are viable for use.  Not having the Newgrange around gives us one less thing to worry about.”

   â€œDoctor Lear has agreed that he will cover the “discovery” of the Newgrange by taking a very public trip into the periphery where he will find the vessel abandoned.” Admiral Natale confirmed.

   â€œHe’s a lucky boy” Dow said sarcastically.

   â€œHe found it in the first place; I’d say that’s lucky enough.” Christopher Windsor-Cameron said “I’d also say it was a small price to keep prying eyes away from this little project.  I assume the Belters have taken no interest?”  He said referring to the residents of the Terran system who resided on habitats built into asteroids in various parts of the system and Kuiper Belt.

   â€œThey didn’t take interest in the area for a few centuries.  I’d be surprised if they did now” Christifori said “we have noted they are taking more interest in SLDF vessels making trips through the area but most of the time they come close enough to have a look and then back off.”

   â€œLike crows to shiny objects.” Natale confirmed “the SLDF has had no issues with the Belters at all.”

   â€œAssuming we can remove the Newgrange from the facility I suppose we can afford to allow it to fall into the possession of the St Ives Compact.  But I want to make sure this discovery remains a Terran one for the forseeable future.  We don’t need the Federated Suns showing off their new Casper Avalons in a year’s time.”  Dow said looking quite annoyed about everything.

   â€œGovernor, trust that the SLDF has Terra’s best interests at hand.”  Archer promised, his people would make sure that all discoveries benifited the SLDF first but also that the information wasn’t conveniently lost when it became time for other states to know about it.

   â€œGovernor, I am sure that our woulds current defence force will remember its place and Terra’s place before endangering it or becoming distracted by other concerns.  The Star League flag flies proudly over this world, now we have another relic of that time, I believe we are heading towards another golden age.  The perfect time for new blood, ideas and beliefs” Duke Windsor-Cameron said almost taunting Dow over ComStar’s failures.

   â€œAnd older ideas and ideals are born through experience.  Knowing where the falls that are coming are before you arrive there so you can avoid them.”  Dow countered

   â€œGentlemen” Admiral David Natale said firmly “this is not a political debate.  This briefing directly affects Terra’s security its past and possible future.  I’d please remind everyone that this briefing is classified Top Secret – Black and I’d wish you all a plesant day.  This briefing is now over.”  He said retaking his seat as the others left the Admiral and Commanding-General remained seating.

   â€œQuite a find, do you think we can use these ships or even see the Casper system reborn?”

   â€œPerhaps” Natale confirmed “but only in time sir.  Three capital ships and some light drones assisting are barely enough to keep that facility secure.  We would need about three hundred capital drones just to secure the Terran system not to mention space station and ground defences.”

   â€œBut the ground defences are already well on there way to being restored to ComStar-era levels.  Even with the Succession Lords resurgent WarShips I don’t believe any could breach Terran Defences supplemented by SLDF vessels as it stands.”

   â€œThat is unlikely.  But the technology behind the Casper system is so complex; it would take a room full of scientists about ten years just to crack it.  And we don’t have access to it yet.”

   â€œThat’s a lovely word that Admiral “yet” but remember it only takes one genius.” Christifori warned he was both happy with the discovery and worried by it.

   â€œAye sir” Natale confirmed his own fears about the legendary Casper defences mirroring the Commanding-Generals.  The future was forever changing… the future was forever troublesome.

Joint Research Project
NAIS University of Thorin
New Avalon, Thorin
14th June 3080

   In a joint statement the New Avalon Institute of Science and the University of Thorin announce that they have been awarded a joint grant to research creating an "AR-15" Sub-Capital Missile Launcher.  Intended to act for Sub-Capital Missiles as the AR-10 acts for Capital Missiles capable of firing more than a single type of missile from one launcher.  As almost no research has been done on the topic both Universities are starting from scratch.  Neither University expects quick results however all Inner Sphere Navies and even the Clan Watch keeps close eyes on the developments.

Clan Wolf Objective Raid
Star's End, Clan Wolf Occupation Zone
Inner Sphere
23rd June 3080

   Clan Wolf launches an Objective Raid against Star's End which had been turned into a Pirate Haven by rebel clan forces and several shattered Pirate bands.  Clan Wolf WarShips encounter weapons attached to asteroids surrounding the planet and several minefields during the burn in a Union C-class DropShip belonging to the Seventh Wolf Cavalry Cluster is destroyed when it strikes a mine while several escorting aerospace fighters are also forced into retreat.

   On the ground the Seventh Wolf Cavalry supported by elements from both the Sixth Wolf Cavalry and the Eleventh Battle Cluster, all Omega Galaxy, are immediately attacked by pirate forces in such numbers that even the Wolf commanders are surprised.  During nearly sixteen hours of combat the Seventh Wolf Cavalry Cluster are all but destroyed and Katrina Wolf, former Archon of the Lyran Alliance, is missing in action her Griffin IIC destroyed on the battle field.  The remaining elements of Omega Galaxy retreat off world unwilling to waste more lives on pirate forces.

   With the Wolves forced into retreat the pirates realize the game is up and abandon their camps on Star's End, they take with them the injured body of Katrina Wolf found on the battlefield.  New Wolf Khan Nathan Fetladral removes Omega Galaxy's commander replacing them with a Crusader instead.

A busy month hope you enjoy

Entry Gates, Albion Military Academy
New Avalon, Crucis March
Federated Suns
2nd August 3080

   At the gates of the Albion Military Academy it was a scene repeated throughout the Federated Suns at every military academy about twice a year.  However today it was slightly different.  At the main gates sat a single Deusenberg Luxury Hover craft with three people standing at the passenger door.  Behind them stood two Stealth OmniMechs and two squads of Battle Armour trying to stay out of the way and protective at the same time.

   â€œYour grandfather would be very happy with you.”  Victor Steiner-Davion said quietly ignoring the growing amount of reporters and photographers arriving in the area.  He’d tried to keep this quiet for as long as possible but a Davion entering a military academy was big news in the Federated Suns especially when that Davion was next in line for the throne.  Victor’s oldest child stood in front of him Burton Davion, he was only sixteen but the Davion name had a lot of pull and he’d been accepted two years ahead after working through the two previous summers on his studies to put him ahead in school.

   â€œI know dad.”  Burton said quietly he’d heard the story of how Hanse Davion had went to this school, how much his father would have liked to go here.

   â€œGood luck my son” Dania Centrella-Davion said with a small smile

   â€œThanks mum” behind him the Drill Master was calling the new batch of cadets into formations.  “I’ve got to go”

   â€œYes you do” Victor said saluting his son Burton returned the crisp salute.

   â€œI’ll see you both at the weekend” Burton said kissing his mother’s cheek before running to join the rest of his cadets.

   â€œHe’ll do us proud” Danai said quietly

   â€œOf course he will" the First Prince said confidently "he’s our son.”  Victor said completely mater-of-fact smiling he climbed back into the limo.

Downtown market
New Hessen, Capellan March
Federated Suns
3rd August 3080

   Just over a kilometre from New Hessen Mechworks a terrorist car-bomb explodes in a packed city centre market killing thirty-eight people and injuring nearly one hundred others.  The New Hessen Militia along with the First New Hessen Irregulars based on the planet deploy multiple lances of Mechs and infantry squads to the area to help keep aid workers safe as the terrorist bomb is investigated.

Mountain Trade Route
Goshen, Capellan March
Federated Suns
9th August 3080

   In a high mountain pass a Nolan LevCar is attacked on Goshen by an unidentified company of BattleMechs.  These Mechs appeared to be of light class and carried stealth armour as well as Particle Projection Cannons.  The impressive armaments, armour and speed of the Nolan meant the attack did not do heavy damage however to “open air” carriages had their cargos knocked off and another passenger car was heavily damaged causing a fire which killed forty-two people.  No trace of these BattleMechs was found following an extensive search by the Goshen Militia and the Training Battalion on planet.

Star League Defence Force
Firebase, Northern Hemisphere
Liberty, Star League Protectorate
10th August 3080

   The Star League open a new firebase on Liberty with the formation of the Third Royal BattleMech Regiment.  This unit is paired with the Third Sirian Lancers for training on Liberty.  It’s commander Colonel Cameron Lee is a former member of the First Royal ComGuard Regiment and a native of Liberty.  Although the unit lacks any conventional armour, infantry, aerospace or transport assets initially the High Command promises to rectify this as quickly as possible.

Kathil Orbit, James McKenna Shipyards
Kathil, Capellan March
Federated Suns
15th August 3080

   A previous unidentified type of DropShip about the size of a Gazelle Combined Arms DropShip appeared in the Kathil system travelling at over seven gravities of acceleration.  When the DropShip engaged local defence fighters with Gauss Rifle, Particle cannons and missiles the ship was classified as hostile and additional defences began to scramble.  As the DropShip closed on the James McKenna Shipyards the FSS Andrew Davion, an Avalon-class Cruiser got in the way of the incoming DropShip.  The Andrew Davion engaged the incoming DropShip with capital weapon fire.  Capital Missiles from the Avalon were severely degraded by the DropShips anti-missile systems causing very little damage, other weapons couldn't lock on the swift craft, the DropShip travelling at close to seven g’s slammed into the front of the Avalon.  The size and speed of the impact smashed the front of the ship tearing the port side of the ship clean off the vessel and ripping open its decks to space, the Avalon‘s ammunition supplies detonated shortly after gutting the remains of the ship.  Although some of the crew were able to move to the escape pods ninety percent of the crew was killed in action and the ship was classed as a total loss.

   Following the attack AFFS Admiralty calls an immediate review of the Avalon-class Cruiser and for a halt on both in production vessels and for the designers to come up with a new armament for the vessel since its capital missiles are obviously inadequate.

Blue Talon Command Deck, Koinz Jump-point
Koinz, Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
18th August 3080

   â€œSir, several Jump signatures detected - multiple JumpShips incoming.”

   â€œWeapons command power all weapons, if they are non-Clan forces your weapons are to engage immediately.  All targets are valid.”  The commander said there would be no honour for any incoming inner sphere unit with his words DropShips, WarShips, Fighters and even JumpShips had become targets.

   â€œShall we not be offering a batchall, Queneg?”  The executive officer offered

   â€œNeg, our gun crews do not get enough opportunities.”  The Commander said smiling.

   â€œIncoming JumpShip Invader-class.  Identifies as the Wolf Spirit, a Wolf’s Dragoons vessel.”

   â€œExcellent, all guns fire at will!”  The vessel’s commander said Naval auto cannons immediately engaged as the gunners gleefully engaged the target.  The first auto cannon shell broke the JumpShip’s back even as the three attached DropShips tried to escape a second shell struck the forward DropShip’s bridge venting the compartment immediately the shell travelled straight through the craft killing everyone aboard.

   â€œSecond and Third JumpShips emerging one Invader, one Tramp both Wolf’s Dragoons registered.”

   â€œContinue to fire” the commander said

   â€œSir, one of the DropShips from the first JumpShip is retreating - Aurora-class.  It is out of weapons range.”

   â€œDispatch our fighter stars to pursue as far as their fuel will safely carry them.”

   â€œStar Captain, that will leave vulnerable to Dragoon aerospace fighters, I suggest switching our Naval Lasers to anti-fighter operations?”

   â€œAgreed do so, continue firing Autocannons at the emerging JumpShips hopefully the Dragoons are brining all their regiments.” the commander said as the Blue Talon continued to fire on the helpless JumpShips and the fleeing DropShips.  The Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser’s Naval Lasers meanwhile had turned their attention to the aerospace fighters launching from the DropShips before the WarShip’s Naval guns gutted them, the pilots at least had a chance to fight back flying their own ships.

   â€œFinal radiation signatures One Monolith, One Invader and a Scout.”

   â€œTarget them all at your choice weapons.”

   â€œSir, two more DropShips have slipped through our fire they are on outbound vectors to join the first.”

   â€œRecall our fighters, XO have all gun crews put down for extra gun practice as soon as this is over.  None of those DropShips should have escaped.”

   â€œAff, Star Captain, should I also send word to the planet’s garrison?”

   â€œInform them we have engaged in this Trial and they are only to engage targets that break Koinz’s atmosphere.  Also inform them that we are breaking from the Jump-point to pursue the remaining Dragoons.”

   â€œSir, the Scout has jumped clear, a further three DropShips have retreated into the system, no JumpShips remain.  All enemy aerospace fighters have been destroyed.”

   â€œPity the Scout escaped, helm plot an intercept course for the all escaped DropShips.”  The Captain said leaving the bridge “XO, you have the bridge” as the doors closed.

   For the next three days the Blue Talon hunted down a Fortress and a pair of Unions however the remaining three an Aurora, a Leopard CV and an Mercer all were able to evade the Blue Talon and her fighters.  On the third day another vessel entered the system this one the Wolf (in-Exile) vessel Werewolf, a McKenna-class Battleship, had more than enough weapons to make the Blue Talon remain at range while all three surviving Dragoons DropShips retreated within the range of the WarShip’s guns.  Unfortunately the damage was done and the Wolf’s Dragoons Epsilon Regiment which had been contained within the destroyed DropShips was gone.  The Wolf (in-Exile) Clan willing to save the Dragoons but unwilling to fight their battles for them removed the survivors from the system.

Press Conference
Jacson, Sirdar Combat Zone
Capellan March, Federated Suns
21st August 3080

   During a press conference on the occupied Capellan Confederation world of Jacson the AFFS appointed governor is shot dead by a sniper assassin.  The Second New Hessen Irregulars Mercenary Regiment which had been assigned to the planet as a security force attempts to track the assassin but to no avail.
 
Border Skirmish
Ko, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
25th August 3080

   Annoyed at the Isle of Skye’s constant building up of weapons and the strike at the Ghost Bear Dominion the DCMS launches an attack over the border lead by Assault DropShip Squadrons and supported by the WarShip Musashi.  Finding no WarShip defence the Fifth Sword of Light Regiment supported by the Second District of Dieron Regulars dropped onto the planet.

   On the ground they found mercenary unit Reed’s Brew and the Lyran Commonwealth’s Seventeenth Isle of Skye Guards First Battalion.  Against two regiments of Draconis Combine troops the Lyran troops stood little chance against the invaders.  The Lyran commander ordered the Reed’s Brew to buy his unit time to dig in, instead Reed’s Brew retreated to their DropShips near the city spaceport informing the Isle of Skye commander to call a truce before both units were destroyed.

   Several hours later the Draconis Combine forces have surrounded the capital city of Ko with the Musashi and several assault DropShips in low orbit over the city.  Following a brief communication from the Draconis Combine troops former Star League Games winner Colonel Alex Hutchings accepts to surrender himself to the DCMS forces along with a Battalion of equipment in exchange for the safe transit of his forces and Reed’s Brew.  Colonel Alex Hutchings marches out of the spaceport in his Atlas II and is never seen again by the Lyran troops.

   The next day the third Battalion of the Fifth Sword of Light land on Alphecca and take the world without firing a shot catching the local milita in their barracks forced to surrender or die the world falls.

Border Skirmish
La Blon, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
28th August 3080

   On La Blon the newly formed Sixth Sword of Light, moving without their support, finds more competition than any other troop on planet is the Gray Death Legion rotating to train with the local militia.  The Gray Death Legion was only a single Battalion however they threw themselves straight at the newly formed DCMS Regiment.  Without further support the DCMS unit crumples and falls back to their DropShips.

   The next day the Twenty-fourth District of Dieron Regulars delayed by a faulty   JumpShip arrive in system.   Against two mostly intact Regiments the Gray Death battalion has no chance and it abandons the world heading for Glengarry.  On the way they send an emergency broadcast to Skye informing them of the assaults.  Hours later on the Twenty-ninth the world of Unkalhal also falls to DCMS forces.

Clan Stone Rhino Territory
York, Kerensky Cluster
1st October 3080

   Clan Steel Viper drops on York with an avenging fury dropping three full galaxies, sixteen clusters, on the remaining Clan Stone Rhino forces based on the ravaged world.  The Stone Rhinos demoralized from the loss of the Clan and the devastation on the world fall to pieces and are destroyed or captured to the man by the Steel Vipers.  Leader of the Stone Rhinos saKhan Liam Johns officially surrenders the Clans remaining assets to Clan Steel Viper.

Castle Robinson, Sandoval Royal Residence
Robinson City, Robinson
Draconis March, Federated Suns
5th October 3080

   In the bowels of Castle Robinson on the Draconis March capitol world of the same name Duke Tarncred Sandoval liege lord of the Draconis March was celebrating.  In the family medical facility his wife Simony Duvall had gives birth to the newest of the Sandoval line his first child and heir Elaine.  Years before Tarncred had courted Yvonne Steiner-Davion however now he truly felt happy.

DropShip Slasher (Mule-class DropShip)
Deep Space, Rack
Periphery
9th October 3080

   The pirate DropShip Slasher had just left their JumpShip at the Nadir point and was now heading in system toward the world of Pain.  The world was the personal world of the Pirate King Hooper Morrison, leader of Morrison’s Extractors.  Onboard the DropShip was Pirate King Midnight Stroud; Morrisons trusted Leitenant and the person who had defeated Clan Wolf on Star’s End and extracted more pirates than Morrison had expected.  Annoyingly for Midnight Morrison had heard of the victory quickly and ordered everything taken from Star’s End taken to Pain immediately.

   Walking amongst the prisoners with a pair of bodyguards Midnight Stroud spied a woman he guessed was in her forties with long blond hair dressed in small shorts and a loosely fit tank-top she was beautiful even for a Clansman.  Motioning for his bodyguard to stand back he moved forward sitting beside her “Hello” he began.

   â€œWhat do you want?”  Katrina asked defiantly despite being a prisoner she was still Katrina Wolf, formerly Steiner-Davion, the child of Hanse Davion and the pupil of Vladimir Ward she would not be stared down by some pirate.

   â€œTo talk, your accent it is not of Clan Wolf?”  Midnight asked his intrigue growing the Clansmen had distinct speech speeking properly with little accent, hers was strong almost Germanic in origin.

   â€œNeg” she answered keeping her head down away from him, she‘d appear subservient if need be perhaps she could turn him to her thinking, ever the manipulator even as a slave Katrina would survive.

   â€œLyran?”

   â€œAff” she said still giving one word answers showing him what he wanted a broken woman.

   â€œHow did you become a Clan Wolf warrior?”

   â€œI was captured years ago, they made me their slave and then a warrior and soon I will breed another one of their kin into the world.”

   â€œYou’re with child?”

   â€œAff, I was raped by a Clan warrior, I will soon have his bastard child.”  She said showing her vulnerability as a slave her child would likely not survive or be taken from her.  And Katrina would not allow that to happen she was stronger physically and mentally and would never allow that to happen.

   â€œAnd the father?”

   â€œDead, I killed him the day after he attacked me.” She'd lied about Vlad's death but how was a pirate ever going to find out how a Wolf Khan died, or her exact relationship with him.

   â€œI want you…” Midnight suddenly said the woman looked up at him, surprised he was so forward “…to come with me, we should check your condition, and the childs, and I want to talk to you more.  Would you like that?”

   â€œYes” she answered

   â€œWhat is your name?”  Midnight asked rising to his feet.

   â€œKatrina” she answered

   â€œWelcome to the Extractors Katrina” he said guiding her from the bay.  Suddenly the slave had become a woman again; someone with power as she followed Midnight from the bay Katrina tried to keep a smile from her face.

Federated Suns Raid
Forbidden City, Sian
Sian Commonality, Capellan Confederation
19th October 3080

   With the barest amount of evidence, and overwhelming pressure from the Capellan March, to do something regarding the constant raids against the region and the rising cost in lives and C-Bills.  Marshal of Armies Reinhart Steiner agrees to sanction a raid by Federated Suns Naval and Ground troops, supported by mercenary forces, against Sian, the capital of the Capellan Confederation.  The raid is not intended to capture the Capellan capital instead send a clear message to the rogue nation, continued attacks will result in the destructiong of the Capellan Nation.  There were still enough people arrive to remember the Fourth Succession War.

   From known pirate points within Sian system six AFFS WarShips including the FSS William Davion, an Avalon-class Cruiser, the FSS Jason Hasek and FSS Damien Hasek, both Congress Block II-class Frigates, the FSS New Avalon, a Whirlwind-class Destroyer, the FSS New Syrtis, a Fox-class Corvette, and the FSS Kathil, a Hound-class Corvette.  Supporting these ships were dozens of Assault DropShips including Overlord A3s, Excalibur Pocket WarShips, Arondight Pocket WarShips and two brand-new Conquistador Blockade Runners.  Immediately after securing the entry point the ground forces began to arrive.

   Arriving behind this huge assault fleet a massive amount of forces including the Fourth New Avalon Guards, the First Federated Suns Armoured Cavalry RCT, the First Kathil Uhlans, the Second Davion Guards RCT and three Rabid Fox teams arrived.  Supporting these House units were the Clinton’s Cutthroats Mercenary Regiment, the Wild Geese Mercenary Regiment, the Medusans Mercenary Fleet and the Vanguard Legion.

   Against them defending the Sian system were the Capellan WarShips CCSS Tikonov and CCSS Sian, both Tikonov-class Carriers with the CCSS Naomi Centrella and CCSS Sun-Tzu Liao two upgraded Feng Huang-class Cruiser/Carriers in support along with hundreds of aerospace fighters.

   The two massive fleets met just outside the orbit of Sian with massive fire works the Capellan Confederation’s massed aerospace fighters charging in against the Davion WarShips as they moved steadily toward Sian.  Unfortunately for the Davion force which relied heavily on Capital and Sub-capital missiles for firepower.  Much of their massed missile fire was being cut down or degraded by the Capellan WarShips point defence and fighters which allowed the Capellan WarShips to close on the Davion WarShips.  The Federated Suns superior numbers allowed the FSS New Avalon, FSS Jason Hasek and FSS Kathil to push through to the planet escorting the First Federated Suns Armoured Cavalry, the Vanguard Legion, the Second Davion Guards RCT and the Rabid Fox contingent.

   In the main engagement Capellan fighters caused extreme damage to the FSS New Syrtis knocking out the Fox-class Corvettes engines and holing almost every deck causing the crew to abandon ship.  As the Medusans tried to draw fire for the AFFS SAR Teams the Basilisk Squadron was caught in a murderous cross fire of the Naomi Centrella and Sun-Tzu Liao causing the destruction of four of the Squadron’s DropShips.  The Wild Geese though not equipped for Naval Combat pushed into the gap assaulting the Naomi Centrella first with DropShip fire then with two companies of Battle Armour deployed as the DropShips made strafing runs.  This brave act caused the destruction of two Wild Geese DropShips and their remaining cargos severely depleting the Ironhorse Squadron of the Wild Geese.

   With the Naomi Centrella pulling out of formation as internal fighting ripped the ship apart this opened a hole in the Capellan formation allowing the William Davion and Damien Hasek to commit to the gap along with the remains of their ground forces.  The Capellan WarShips unable to stop this haemorrhage in their lines withdrew to a safe distance as their fighters re-armed and the fighting continued on the Naomi Centrella.

   Ahead closer to Sian the ground forces of the First Federated Suns Armoured Cavalry, Vanguard Legion and the Second Davion Guards RCT were beginning their landings however the Capellans had another surprise for them.  As well as hundreds of aerospace fighters the Castle Brian-like structure on the Wuhan Island Continent which was the Federated Suns target had been secretly fitted with an armament of Naval grade Lasers.  As DropShips dropped through the atmosphere the lasers opened fire, but the gunners did not choose the DropShips as their target instead lighting up the FSS Kathil which had launched them.  The Hound-class Corvette’s armour boiled and was penetrated by the fire, the lasers burning from one bulkhead to the other stem-to-stern.

   Seeing this destruction first hand the FSS New Avalon and FSS Jason Hasek turned their guns on the surface capital laser, autocannon, gauss rifle and missile rained down on the structure for nearly ten minutes as the WarShips fired until their reserves were empty.  On the ground the First Federated Suns Armoured Cavalry, Vanguard Legion and Second Davion assaulted Guangxi and Beilin two cities to the east and south of the Forbidden City.  In Guangxi the Second Davion Guards came up against the Holdfast Guard while in Beilin the First Federated Suns Armoured Cavalry and Vanguard Legion came across the Prefectorate Guard.  The fighting was brutal in Guangxi the Holdfast Guard were driven back from the city but fighting continued in Beilin until further reinforcements arrived from the second wave.  Rabid Fox teams landed on and near the Castle Brian-like structure on South Home Island silently disabling the facilities defences without killing anyone and without a single loss.  From the Summer Palace, and current residence of Chancellor Naomi Centrella the Centrella Black Guard Regiment and began to push towards the Forbidden City to reinforce its defences.

   In space a second naval battle erupted as the Sun-Tzu Liao, Sian and Tikonov re-engaged the William Davion, Damien Hasek, Jason Hasek and New Avalon.  In the meantime the remaining AFFS/Mercenary ground forces made landings onto Sian.  The Fourth New Avalon Guards under the command of Colonel Ross McKinnon landed directly on top of the Centrella Black Guards as they advanced north.  The First Kathil Uhlans, Clinton’s Cutthroats and remaining Wild Geese ground forces landed at Guanxi and Beilin.  With Guangxi secured already the under strength Wild Geese were relegated to defence duty as the rest pushed forwards towards the Forbidden City.  With fighting continuing in Beilin the First Federated Suns Armoured Cavalry and Vanguard Legion were also left behind as the Second Davion Guards and the First Kathil Uhlans supported by the Clinton’s Cutthroats attacked the Forbidden City.

   As they approached the city a Conquistador-class Blockade Runner dived through the atmosphere and strafed the cities walls with its Sub-capital cannons tearing multiple holes in the defences.  These were filled by the troops of the Red Lancers Regiment sworn to defend the Capellan capital.  As the Cutthroats and Davion Guard troops engaged the Red Lancers the Kathil Uhlans engaged the cities defences at the gates.

   In the dead space between the Summer Palace and the Forbidden City the fighting continued between the Fourth New Avalon Guards and the Centrella Black Guards until the Capellan Confederation resorted to using tactical nuclear weapons on the battlefield.  Both the Centrella Black Guards and the Fourth New Avalon Guards were mostly wiped out in the attack with stragglers from both units moving away back to bases.  Both the Centrella Black Guards commander and Ross McKinnon commander of the Fourth New Avalon Guards were killed in the attack.  AFFS commanders Captains Damien Redburn, commander of Delta Company, and David McKinnon, commander of the Fox’s Teeth pulled their remaining forces back.

   With this act the battle of Sian is largely over the Federated Suns have seen how far the Capellans would be willing to go and all their forces begin to withdraw to DropShips in Guanxi and Beilin.  The First Kathil Uhlans eager to prove a point however charge the main gates of the Forbidden City breaking the gates a company made up almost exclusively of Templar and Stealth OmniMechs breach the gates of the city proving it can be done.  Not a single Mech fires a weapon into the city they just turn instead they turned around and began to retreat their point proven.

   Two hours later Federated Suns forces began retreating from the planet the naval battle still continuing.  Under naval escort the AFFS forces begin a general retreat from the scene.  As the Wild Geese re-enter orbit they receive messages from their Battle Armour force the Naomi Centrella is disabled but they cannot capture the ship, instead they have appropriated enough Small Craft and evacuated the vessel rejoining the rest of the commands, as they reach the command the Naomi Centrella explodes as charges set by the Battle Armour troopers explode.  Both the Sian and Tikonov remained at distance with the AFFS forces as the Sun-Tzu Liao continued to snipe at the AFFS WarShips as they fell back and jumped back out of the system.

   Capellan Confederation immediately calls for action by the Star League Advisory Council and SLDF armed forces following the blatant attempt by the AFFS to decapitate the nation.  Star League begin an official investigation into the Capellan March and Sian attacks.

Border Clash
Occupied Worlds
Capellan Confederation/Federated Suns Border
22nd October 3080

   Unhappy at the Star League’s lack of immediate action following the Sian attack the Capellan Confederation attack Alcol, Kansu, Buchlau, Aldebaran, Halloran V and Jacson with all six of the Warrior House Battalions.  At the same time the Magistracy of Canopus based Ebon Magistrate assault the Federated Suns world of Lee.  The worlds of Alcol, Kansu and Aldebaran all fall almost without a fight, the world of Halloran V with it’s defences augmented by the First Kestrel Grenadiers Regiment fend off Warrior House Doru while the world of Jacson experiences a population rebellion which forces its AFFS/mercenary occupies off world.

   The Ebon Magistrate Attack on Lee led by their new Ebony BattleMechs and stealth equipped Battle Armour is thrown off by AFFS and mercenary forces belonging to the Lexington Combat Group Mercenary Brigade.

Border Skirmish
Altair, Dieron Military District
Draconis Combine
23rd October 3080

   Intent on ensuring the Draconis Combine feels as much pain as the Lyran Commonwealth the Second Skye Jaegers Regiment supported by the First Isle of Skye Training Battalion capture Altair from DCMS forces. In taking Altair they threaten Dieron like the Draconis Combine has threatened Skye and capture the on planet DropShip and aerospace fighter production lines.  Lyran WarShips engage Draconis Combine vessels in orbit of the world before ground forces land on the plant.
 
Classified Testing Grounds
Achernar BattleMech Test Site, Defiance
Crucis March, Federated Suns
28th October 3080

   After nearly three years testing and retesting Achernar BattleMechs have struggled and failed to create an OmniMech on a Quad-chassis.  Unwilling to admit defeat for her company Countess Rodina Achernar uses her contacts within the Davion Royal court and in-turn those with Clan Nova Cat.  Within a week a Nova Cat-built Stone Rhino Quad-OmniMech was on Defiance along with a maintenance team.  With less than two weeks work the Nova Cat engineers help Achernar push through the first tests of the new Trachazoi Medium OmniMech, which has been named for a creature of the Federated Suns Outback Region.  AFFS evaluators at the test are impressed by the design and note that the forty-five ton machine uses its space and chassis very well the AFFS put a generous order into Achernar for the OmniMech and immediately the unit begins to be shipped to various units for field trials.  Included in these deployments is one Trachazoi sent to the Wild Geese Mercenary Regiment, as a long term AFFS Contractor a logical choice for a field test.  Countess Achernar not one to forget those who had helped her send one Trachazoi to the Nova Cat base on New Avalon as payment for their help in getting the Mech into the field.

Hooper Morison’s “Royal” Residence
Pain, Periphery
4th November 3080

   â€œRemember what I said he will try and humiliate you, hurt you, but do not bite at his attacks.  If we can convince him that you are useless to him Hooper will leave you to me.”  Midnight Stroud said quietly as he and Katrina Wolf approached the main audience chamber of Hooper Morrison.

   Entering the room she saw a large very well decorated room that was almost out of place on the harsh and near barren world named Pain.  As she moved fully into the room however she heard and saw a large group of people sitting in a gallery of seats beside Hooper Morrison’s self styled throne bigger than those on both New Avalon and Tharkad Hooper Morrison sat on the chair covered in large robes in his hand was a golden sceptre and she could just make out a golden crown tattooed on his cheek.  In front of the throne were two crosses one the traditional upright cross used in biblical myth the other on its side forming an “X” on both crosses were the naked victims Hooper Morrison was tormenting.  People from the Gallery shouted insults and threw rotten food at the crosses while masked men whipped the two men on the crosses.

   â€œAh my friend Midnight, what are you doing here?”

   â€œI was summoned” Midnight said quietly subserviently

   â€œAh yes, I remember now, and what is this with you?”

   â€œMy personal slave” Midnight said “a Wolf warrior I captured in combat, she has sworn herself to me.”

   â€œThat is my choice.  Step forward my dear.”  Hooper said looking her over Katrina was cleaner than she’d been on Midnight’s DropShip when he first found her but she still looked horrible.  “Disrobe for me.”  Hooper commanded Katrina did not hesitate removing what little garments she had on revealing her slight baby bump.

   â€œPregnant?  Midnight I know this cannot be your child?”

   â€œA Wolf’s child, I have claimed it as my own, I will continue my line in this child.”

   â€œAgain my choice, my dear dance for these men they do not have long to live.  Give them at least a little pleasure before they die.”  Katherine began to dance, badly, around the two crosses playing the dumb Clan warrior unable to grasp normal things.  After a few minutes of the dance two shots rang out Katrina froze but the shots had not been for her.  Sitting on his throne Hooper Morrison had shot both of the men.  “It was their time.  I know your face Wolf, I do not know how but I know you.”  Hooper said Katrina remained silent Hooper turned to Midnight “you can have her, my friend she is no use to me.”  Hooper said waving his hand Midnight bowed slightly turned to Katrina and nodded to her clothes than began to walk away as Katrina picked up her clothes she was hit by several pieces of rotten foods.  She’d survived her first Trial with the Pirates.

Trempealeau Residence
Filtvelt, Filtvelt Coalition
16th November 3080

   Four days before the FSS Alexander Davion, the Davion Block III-class Destroyer that served as the AFFS Flagship, had arrived in the Filtvelt system.  From the jump point it had been met by and escorted to Filtvelt by an armada of six DropShips and two wings of aerospace fighters along with several shuttles.  From orbit a single Excalibur-class DropShip had descended to the surface covered from space by the Alexander Davion’s guns.  On the ground a motorcade escorted by several First Davion Guards OmniMechs had moved through Filtvelt’s capital to Marquees Helen Trempealeau’s official residence.  Along the whole route hundreds of people had come out to watch the passing convoy, some were even cheering.  There the motorcade’s single occupant had been greeted by a single maid and led to a comfortable sitting room he’d been asked to sit on a comfortable chair in front of a roaring fire.  There he waited almost five minutes before Marquees Trempealeau arrived.  As a gentleman he rose to his feet when she and her two beagle dogs entered the room.  “Marquees” he said bowing slightly.

   â€œSire, it is me who should bow, welcome to Filtvelt First Prince Davion, it has been a long time.”  She said returning his formal bow and going slightly further.

   â€œTen years” he answered.

   â€œTen long years.” She repeated

   â€œYou have done much.”

   â€œWe haven’t done enough.”  She answered him “I assume you have come to collect on your bargain?”

   â€œI did, now seeing what I see, I am not sure.”  He said quietly

   â€œPlease take a seat.”  She said perching on the chair opposite him “how can I be of service sire.”  She said it was obvious to him that she still considered the First Prince of New Avalon to be her liege lord.  But the things Victor had seen coming here and the things he knew she was as much a leader as any other.

   â€œI came here with a plan to return your Coalition to the fold of the Federated Suns before further worlds join your cause.”

   â€œWe have not actively encouraged worlds to leave the Federated Suns.”

   â€œNo but the choice to run your own future is attractive.”  Victor said quietly “I did not come here and expect to see the city in this condition.”  He said impressed with what he had seen “soon your world will be as populated and advanced as any in the Inner Sphere New Avalon included.”

   â€œWe have been lucky just as the Federated Suns has we have found an advanced ally willing to share its knowledge and resources in exchange for our natural resources.  It is a good deal for my nation and has benefited our peoples greatly.  Soon we will have a Grade A university on all our worlds we already have enough schools for Primary and High Schooling for every child and more educators move here every year.”

   â€œI have read the information, the Nova Cats have done well by your nation, and as I understand it have bases on every one of your worlds.”

   â€œWhat of it?  Most of them are civilians miners, technicians and scientists most of my people haven’t even seen a warrior.  We have them under control for now we use them as they use us.”

   â€œAs long as you know that and continue to keep an eye on it.  For if I was to make the decision I am considering I would not want a potential hostile force able to base forces from your nation’s worlds.”

   â€œNo nation that would threaten the Federated Suns would live on my planet willingly.  We monitor them always and will protect the people of the Federated Suns until our last breath.” She said with much conviction.

   â€œAnd I believe what you say.”  Victor said looking into the fire “you know the Nova Cats believe in visions; some say they see these in fires.  I am not a believer in this but I see something in your fire marquees.”  He said turning to the Filtvelt leader “if we war over your nation’s status both the Federated Suns and the Coalition will suffer greatly.  However I sense that you still hold strong ties to the Federated Suns, and hold respect for my House and my world.”  She nodded “I would also think from the crowds I saw coming here that many of your people feel the same way?”  She nodded again “So I cannot just watch what you have accomplished be wiped away into the Crucis March despite what the High Command and Noble court would want.”  He said glancing back into the fire “so instead tomorrow at our press conference I will recognize the Filtvelt Coalition as a nation of its own and my intention to open a diplomatic embassy on this world if you would allow it?”

   â€œOf course, I would” she said “why?”

   â€œI am impressed with what you have done here and your nation makes a nice cushion between us and the Nova Cat’s space.”  He said smiling slightly “how about it Marquees? Strike another bargain with the Federated Suns’ First Prince.”

   â€œI think I could do that” she answered.

   The next day the two of them attended a press conference and the Filtvelt Coalition was officially recognized by the Federated Suns as a periphery nation with full diplomatic ties to the Federated Suns.  The construction of an Embassy building and the assignment of an ambassador would happen shortly.  First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion said that the Coalition deserved its independence and its right to rule its own affairs without New Avalon breathing down its neck but said that independence was not the right path for all worlds.  Shortly after this he left the world returning to his WarShip and leaving the Coalition several hours later.

   Within days of the announcement of a permanent free Filtvelt Coalition the worlds of Ebro, Sherwood and Brockton all hold independence rallies and votes.  All three worlds which have for years received the smallest portion of Federated Suns aid packages and funding vote overwhelmingly to join the growing Filtvelt Coalition.  On New Avalon with Victor still travelling between the stars many question the First Prince’s wisdom in making this choice.

SLDF Intervention
Rigil Kentarus, Caph
Lyran Commonwealth/Draconis Combine
22nd November 3080

   With Skye calling for assistance and with information leaked from the Draconis Combine suggesting they too wanted an end to the hostilities First Lord Jeremy Brett authorizes Commanding-General Archer Christifori to take any and all necessary steps to bring both nations to the talks table.  After meeting with his commanders Archer makes a simple brutal show of force that gets both nations attention.  On the morning of the 22nd November the four active WarShips of the Second Naval Squadron left Star League space with each carrying a brigade’s worth of troops.

   The SLS Invincible, the Star League’s Tharkad-class Battle-cruiser, and the SLS Liberty, one of the Vincent Pocket Carriers entered the Rigil Kentarus system with the Third Division’s Fourth Regiment, the 789th Striker Regimental Brigade.  In the system the WarShips informed Draconis Combine and Lyran Commonwealth units in system that any unit firing on the planet when the SLDF arrived would be considered hostile and would be fired upon.  Four days later when the 789th landed they found the fighting had drawn to a near stand-still, covered by the Liberty’s fighters the 789th created a buffer zone between the two biggest bases of Lyran and Combine troops and informed both sides the SLDF was going to remain on the planet until the fighting stopped between both nations.

   At the same time the SLS Helm, the Venturer-class Light Cruiser, and the SLS Covenant, the Commanding-General’s own escort Covenant-class Cruiser, entered the Caph system.  The battered world of Caph had once again been beaten in this border skirmish.  The Twenty-First Rim Worlds Brigade of the Star League’s Third Division were ready to answer the Commanding-General’s call and in spectacular faction.  Orbital Dropping a battalion into each nation’s primary base and targeting command bunkers from orbit the Twenty-first ordered both sides to stand down.  The Third Battalion and the Brigade’s support regiments occupied the planetary capital Brunal.  The plan worked spectacularly well for a start with the Lyran Commonwealth loyal irregular forces standing down immediately turning over their arms however the Fortieth Dieron Regulars Regiment refused and instead engaged the Star League Battalion.  While they did warriors attempted to start up the rest of the Regiment’s equipment over a battalion of Combine troops, including the Regiment’s commander, died in the next minutes as the Twenty-first engaged anything that moved.  At the same time the Twenty-First Avatars Assault Regiment and the Ninth Royal Battle Armour Battalion closed around the Fortieth Dieron.  For the next three hours the Fourth attempted to beak out however they ended up broken at every attempt and the regiment was destroyed.  With the end of the fighting Caph was in Star League hands.  As a bonus for the SLDF unit during the fighting the Combine unit’s brand-new Teppo Support and command unit was captured intact and taken as a spoil of war, the vehicle had specifically been sent to the Fourth Dieron to support fighting against the Lyran Commonwealth and was full of DCMS intelligence.

   Both Lyran Commonwealth and Draconis Combine complained to the SLDF High Command about the move however Commanding-General Archer Christifori reminded them that the SLDF answered to the First Lord who had been elected by the Succession States of the Inner Sphere.  They also had a duty to end fighting between nations of the Star League which was intended by the move both DCMS and LCAF representatives agreed to meet on Lyon soon after the battles.

AFFS Quatermasters Office
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
25th November 3080

   â€œMy contract clearly states that any successful mission it leads for the AFFS we are entitled to our full Regiment’s worth of salvage and a percentage of all salvage taken from the operation.”  Brigadier General Alisande Faulkner said loudly speaking to the AFFS Chief Quartermaster Marshal Felix Berry.

   â€œEvery SUCCESSFUL raid Brigadier, it has yet be determined if Sian was a success.  We lost two WarShips in that raid and we have not gained a single piece of territory in fact we have lost six worlds.”

   â€œMarshal, I don’t care if the Federated Suns has lost two dozen worlds I lost half my command in that raid.  We were ordered from our garrison on Alta Vista to join that fight.”

   â€œAs per your contract I believe you are expected to go wherever you are requested.”

   â€œNot for suicide missions.”

   â€œHardly a suicide mission you returned.”  The Marshal said

   â€œHowever you want to categorize it, we were successful, and the raids on the Capellan March have stopped.  I want my salvage entitlement.”

   â€œYour unit’s salvage, if any, will be determined after all house units are rearmed and have pick over their salvage.”

   â€œAnd when will that be?”

   â€œFollowing an inventory of all salvage taken from the world.”  He said flicking through three pieces of paper “I’d say no more than six weeks.”

   â€œSix weeks?  I could buy Mechs and equipment in the Lyran Commonwealth and have them shipped to Alta Vista quicker.”

   â€œPerhaps if you think that is prudent, it is your right.”

   â€œYou insufferable man!!”  She screamed turning marching straight out of the room.

   â€œAnd a good day to you, Brigadier.”  the Marshal answered calmly to her back.  Within the hour the Brigadier and the rest of what remained of the Wild Geese were burning back to the jump point and away from New Avalon.

Bootleg copies of Katrina's dance are available on Rack and Pain, look in the dungeon watch for the gate closing behind you  #P

3081

Oriente Protectorate Offensive
Liao Commonality, Capellan Confederation
3rd, 4th, 5th January 3081
 
   With the Capellan Confederation's back turned focused on the Federated Suns the Oriente Protectorate's Armed forces launch an attack on the Liao Commonality of the Capellan Confederation.  Led by the Fusiliers of Oriente First and Second Brigade landing on Elnath overwhelming the Capellan Confederation's defenders.  The First Oriente Hussars launch an attack on Campertown at almost the same time.

   The next day the First Marik Militia and Third Halas Militia attacking Phact and Wazan defeating elements of the Fourth Tau Ceti Rangers and mercenary support on both worlds forcing Capellan survivors back.  Finally the third day of hostilities the Eighth Orloff Grenadiers strike at Old Kentucky and Chambo supported by the WarShip Lancelot and the mercenary units Barrett's Fusiliers, Bronson's Hoard and the Rainbow Avengers mercenary unit.  The Capellan defenders on Chambo include Harloc's Rangers and Quint's Olympian Groundpounders.  Within an hour of the Oriente ground forces landing on Chambo the Capellan WarShip Ion Rush, Impravido-class Destroyer arrived in system to assist them.  The Lancelot and the Ion Rush begin a two week long dance around the system as the ground battle continues.

Clan Offensive
Clan Wolf Occupation Zone
9th, 10th, 12th January 3081

   With the Wolves apparently abandoning all their periphery holdings for worlds closer to Terra Clan Hell's Horses take advantage launching attacks on Alleghe, St John, Rodigo, Lovinac, Kirchbach, Liezen and Outpost.  On Outpost with the Wolf refit/shipyard facility are the Hell's Horses forced back with the rest falling to small Trials of Possession.

Federated Boeing Offices, The Tower
Port Simon Shipyards, Galax
Crucis March, Federated Suns
15th January 3081

   Out the reinforced windows behind Fleet Admiral Blaine Webster sat open space and his personal WarShip the FSS Pegasus, unique within the Inner Sphere as the only Columbia-class vessel in service anywhere, he’d been her commander since her re-launch a few years before and relished every day he was aboard.  When Fleet Admiral Andrea Petain had decided to retire from active service and the High Command had informed Blaine that he would be her replacement he had informed them that her would remain as commander aboard the FSS Pegasus with his official office aboard the vessel although they had balked at the idea for the last year and a half he’d made the plan stick with his XO doing much of the day to day running while he continued fleet matters.  He knew that First Prince Victor Davion preferred the symbolic Alexander Davion as his transport and Flagship however the sheer size and strength of the FSS Pegasus kept Blaine continually enthralled.   Behind him the doors opened and in entered Duke Aleksandr McCorkendale, CEO of Federated-Boeing of Galax, “Fleet Admiral, welcome back to Galax it is always nice to see the return of the Pegasus.  And I‘m sure you are looking forward to the upgrades we have planned.”

   â€œOf course Duke McCorkendale, thank you for the invite to come aboard.  Nothing worse than trying to do your job, while engineers are tinkering.  I’ve looked at the upgrades ambitious as they are the Command Suite is particularly interesting as are the anti-missile batteries completely automated and laser based very impressive.”

   â€œCompletely without ammunition, we’re significantly upgrading the heat dispensation system as well nearly doubling its size hopefully you can do without the extra cargo space.  However, I’m that wasn’t the only reason I asked you to come aboard.”

   â€œI though it came as a bit of a surprise, you‘re normally planet based.”

   â€œWell the information we have came as a bit of a surprise to us as well please take a seat.”  He said indicating to one of the couches The Floating Tower, or Tower, was the biggest free floating structure in the Inner Sphere outside the Gulf Breeze habitat in the Lyran Commonwealth and so had about twenty Gravity Decks allowing for nearly 1G of perfect gravity.  For a career “spacer” like Blaine it always felt strange to have gravity without thrust despite this he concentrated on the Duke.  “As you are aware we have been charged with analysing the data banks from the Robinson that the DMI recovered recently.”  Blaine nodded and noticed the Duke avoided saying where the ship was recovered and where it presently was.

   â€œI am aware and I believe that the Command facility the ship is berthed at has had promising results.”

   â€œIt has indeed Duke, both there and here are preparing for production of the vessel though we’d be surprised to have a working prototype before 3090 maybe later.”

   â€œOld news Duke, I’ve read your status updates.”

   â€œOne thing that wasn’t on the update, Admiral was our most recent discovery.  Tell me Admiral have you ever heard of the New Syrtis Fighter Cruiser?”

   â€œVaguely was around at the same time as the Robinson, eventually ended up across the Federated Suns and the Star League had three I believe.  The design died out early in the Succession Wars with most other WarShips.  We’ve never been able to recover the design.”

   â€œUntil now, we’ve found enough schematic data to fill in the rest of the blanks ourselves.  Though I cannot say the ship is one hundred percent the same as the original but we believe it is a workable design to make a prototype and maybe take to full production as an escort for the Columbia and First Prince classes.  Unfortunately neither here nor Command has space for another design in production already the Robinson will take up multiple bays and other designs are already pencilled in for production.”

   â€œSend the designs to New Syrtis.”  Blaine said after a moment, “They know we have recovered a Robinson they can put the pieces together and work on a prototype for the New Syrtis and figure out if your ideas are sound and workable.”

   â€œAnd if they ask where the schematics originated?”

   â€œTell them as much as possible without compromising the DMI or Command.  Work this as a Galax idea you cannot take forward.  New Syrtis is possible better placed to progress, especially since they produced the ship originally.  And hopefully the Robinson will support our ground forces as the New Syrtis supports our fleet.”

   â€œWe also found something else” Aleksandr said quietly “references to the Golden Lion.”

   â€œIf this room is not secure then say nothing else, however I want research into that subject researched fully.”  The Fleet Admiral said immediately cutting off the duke, who immediately became silent, having another relic brought back up would be the cherry on the cake.

Capellan Confederation Counter Attack
Oriente Protectorate Borders
20th January 3081

   Under orders from Chancellor Naomi Centrella to remove all Oriente troops from her realm the First Capellan Defence Force leads a five regiment strong force against the Oriente invaders.  The First Capellan Defence Force itself supported by the Ambermarie's Highlanders hit Elnath countering the Oriente Fusiliers in a six day long campaign of assaults.  Both regiments are left heavily battered however the Second Oriente Fusiliers are all but destroyed.

   A day after landings on Elnath Syn's Hussars lands on Chambo to assist elements of Harloc's Rangers on the world against the Oriente Marik Militia troops.  With the Lancelot and Ion Rush still engaging in long range skirmishes the command loses a DropShip en-route however lands on planet and by end of January it is back in Capellan hands.

   On the same day the Centrella Rangers land on Campertown and retake the world from Oriente troop elements before jumping to Harsefeld in the Oriente Protectorate seizing the world from local militia troops within sixteen hours.  On their landing the Capellan troops escort craft a pair of newly finished Lung Wang Predator refit Assault DropShips use their Sub-capital Lasers to raze the HPG and about five blocks of the capital city from orbit ensuring no message makes it off the planet.