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District of Dieron Offensive
Quentin, Addicks PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
7th May 3095

   Following a series of heavy riots on Quentin the Draconis Combine deploy the Second Yokosuka Special Naval Landing Force Regiment, a unit made up entirely of LAMs mainly Wasp and Shadow Hawk models, supported by the DCS Galedon Explorer, a Kyushu-class Frigate, assaults the AFFS defenders.  Already weakened and distracted by the rioting the civilians the LAMs quickly overwhelm the Tenth Deneb Light Cavalry LCT with air and ground attacks at the same time Infantry and Battle Armour units move in from multiple directions forcing the AFFS unit to surrender.

   In simultaneous attacks the DCMS attack the worlds of Al Na'ir, Helen, Errai and Small World Akira Tormark, and his Sons of the Dragon Special Forces team, lead the recently reformed Fifteenth Dieron Regulars Regiment and the Sixth Sword of Light Regiment attack Al Na'ir crushing elements of the Eighth Crucis Lancers RCT and the Second Albion Training Cadre Regiment.  On Helen and Errai other elements of the Eighth Crucis Lancers are forced to retreat.

Combat Landing
Robinson, Robinson PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
9th May 3095

   On hearing of the fighting on Robinson First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion had taken a combined-arms force on three Conquistador-class DropShips via JumpShip Command-Circuit to Robinson leaving the majority of the First New Avalon Guards and Davion Assault Guards on New Mendham along with the FSS Dresari and FSS Black Prince.

   Landing at three different landing zones around the Strikers and Militia forces Victor had ordered his people to encircle the units that had been fighting against those loyal to Tancred Sandoval before taking to the field himself.  Marching his Dire Wolf through the ranks of his troops Victor activated the Mech's communication system “Jerome Sandoval, this is Victor Steiner-Davion, I order all the forces under your command to stand down immediately.  Failure to do so will result in your forces being attacked by mine; if that happens you will also be fighting against me.”  He said if any of these warriors were actually loyal to the Federated Suns then they would stand down, Jerome Sandoval included.

   â€œFirst Prince Davion, sire, we are standing up for the unheard voices of this March.”  Jerome Sandoval replied

   â€œYou have been heard loud and clear” Victor said angrily “you will not get another warning” he said leaving it for several minutes.  Victor switched channels “this is Prometheus all commands prepare assault on my command.”  He said grimly still listening for a reply from Jerome he did not wish to attack these people but he would if required he'd ordered the FSS Audacity to remain in orbit and to shoot-down any unauthorized DropShip launches once it was clear of the atmosphere.

   â€œFirst Prince Davion, we will surrender” Jerome Sandoval said after a few more moments “I have ordered all of my men to stand down it's over.”  He said sounding like a man defeated.

   â€œGood, you and the commanders of the Strikers and the Militia will surrender yourselves to my military police if any of you resist my men have been ordered to take you down dead or alive.”  Victor warned it was not enough that these men had surrendered.

   â€œI understand there will be no resistance” the man said accepting his fate.

   Hours later Victor met with Tancred within Castle Robinson Victor was angry that it had gotten to this stage he'd always had a friend in Tancred but the March Lord needed to understand his failings.  “It shouldn't have been allowed to get to this” Victor said angrily “your responsibility is to the whole March Tancred not just your family” he said continuing to round on the older man “the Combine shouldn't have tried to attack you or your family but starting a war was not the way to get your own back.”  He said pacing back and fourth

   â€œI didn't start the war those on Robinson did”

   â€œExactly!”  Victor shouted exploding in anger “YOU are the March Lord.  It is YOUR responsibility to make sure they understand what is expected of them.  It is YOUR responsibility to keep them in line and it's YOUR damned responsibility to keep your family in check.”  He said stressing how much lay on Tancred; Victor knew what it was like dealing with family 'issues' he needed to make sure that the leader of the Draconis March knew it as well.  “Once this mess is over with the Combine you better get your house together or I will.”  He warned marching towards the doors.

   â€œYes, sire” Tancred mumbled as Victor stepped by “Victor, I am willing to contact the Combine and offer them terms for peace.”  He said stopping the First Prince in his tracks; although Victor did not turn.  “They were in the wrong, but we made it a war, I am willing to take responsibility for my actions that caused it and take the step towards peace.”  He said addressing Victor's back Tancred knew that his friend, and liege Lord, was still angry at him.

   â€œMake your offer” Victor said after a moments thought turning towards Tancred looking him in the eyes “if they do not reply we are going to make them pay for it.”  He said finally turning around and marching from the room leaving Tancred to his own thoughts.

National Address, Castle Robinson
Robinson, Robinson PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
11th May 3095

   Tancred Sandoval sat in front of the camera dressed in his full AFFS Field Marshal uniform as he spoke into the camera.  “People of the Draconis March, the Federated Suns and Draconis Combine.  A conflict has occurred between the Draconis Combine and Federated Suns, one that was caused by wrongs on both sides, we have both had our victories and our losses.”  He said “I am now ready to offer the Draconis Combine a peaceful outcome to this conflict should they be willing to return this message.”  He said pausing “to those who have heard of conflict on Robinson.  This has been resolved those responsible for it are in custody.  We are one nation and we will fight all threats to our last breath; we do not want this war but if it continues we will fight.”  He promised signing off the camera.  He had been tempted to mention that Jerome Sandoval was one of those in custody and on his way to a maximum security facility, one that even Tancred did not know the location, however he wished to leave it.  As Victor had said after the conflict was over with the Draconis Combine he would need to put his family and commanders in their places if not for himself then for his children.

Principality of Regulus Raid
Ashburton, Bowang Free Trade Sphere
Former-Free Worlds League
24th May 3095

   As part of the Thunder Road's contract with the Bowang Free Trade Sphere they were required to assist in training the native forces of the Bowang Free Trade Sphere.  One such unit was the Ashburton Defence League, a combined-arms regiment, because they were still settling into their base on Bowang Colonel John Wrangler had taken his command company in one of Bowang's Union-class DropShips.

   For nearly a week the Thunder Road had fought simulated battle after simulated battle with the Ashburton unit however they had been interrupted by the arrival of a battalion strong Eighth Regulan Hussars.  Wrangler had held the centre line with his command lance supported by the best battalion the Ashburton Defence League had while both other lances led the weaker Battalions.  Ashburton had been one of many Free Worlds League systems that had benefited from Bowang's close proximity and good relationship with the Rim Association and had more than two companies of Fuel Cell powered BattleMechs with additional carried weapons, however, these units did little against the Regulan units.

   Instead the Thunder Road led the defence against the Eighth Regulan Hussars Regiment were a sister regiment of the Tenth Regulan Hussars which the Thunder Road had defeated on Emris IV.  As a result Wrangler and his men ended up fighting a far tougher battle than they had expected losing two of their Mechs.  The Ashburton Defence League took far heavier damage than the Thunder Road but they were successful in their defence pushing the Regulans off the planet.

   As a way of showing their gratitude the Ashburton donated two of their undamaged Fuel Cell powered twenty ton Chevalier BattleMechs to the Thunder Road along with their pilots as volunteers to join the mercenary command.  These Mechs were lighter more and brittle than most of the Mechs that had ever served with the mercenary command but they were better than nothing.  John Wrangler promised himself and the unit that he would get a pair of 'proper' Mechs to replace the two Chevaliers as soon as the unit had the funds to buy them.

People know about most factions in the BT Universe but what about the Star League Protectorate

Bonus Time

http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/factions/faction-star-league-protectorate/msg38316/#msg38316

Into August I'm on nights for a few days so probably no update for a wee bit but never know I may get bored 

Tamarind News Broadcast
Tamarind, Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey
Former Free Worlds League
12th August 3095

   It was late evening on Tamarind when the news went out a flustered looking blonde haired female reported appeared on the screen the smudged make-up on her face indicating that she had been crying.  “Ladies and Gentlemen of Tamarind, I am Louisa Gordon, at 16:43 Tamarind local time there was an explosion at the Tamarind Land and Air Works factory outside the Capital Zanzibar which caused severe structural damage.”  She explained pausing “the facility which was still under construction would have brought a new source of Land-Air-Mechs to our Duchy with designs being built here under license from Gilmour MilTech of  Talitha.”  She said “to mark this monumental achievement by out people, and to show his pride in their work, Commanding-General Anthony Brett-Marik the current First Lord of the Star League Defence Force was at the facility."

   â€œIt is my sad duty to announce that despite the efforts of Tamarind Search and Rescue Teams and of the Royal Black Watch that I can confirm that Anthony Brett-Marik is dead.  Reports from the coroner suggest that he died quickly.  The Brett-Marik family have refused to post a comment on this tragedy however it appears that Anthony's first born Duchess Chloe will become leader of the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey.  Chloe has long been an outspoken opponent to Tamarind's attempt to sway control over the Former-Free Worlds League so it is believed that she will not take the title Captain-General.”  She said pausing for a moment “the Royal Black Watch Regimental Brigade's commander has announced that they will remain on Tamarind until Anthony Brett-Marik is laid to rest.  As of yet it is unknown who will serve as the new First Lord Anthony only took the post at the Whitting Conference in December 3094.  Ladies and Gentlemen please join me in a moments silence and remember Captain-General Anthony Brett-Marik and the good he did for our nation.”  She said finishing off the camera remained on for several moments in silence before fading to black.

   Days after the passing of Captain-General Anthony Brett-Marik his eldest daughter Duchess Chloe Brett-Marik is confirmed as the new leader of the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey.  Unlike the posts of its member states the position of First Lord does not pass to the son/daughter of a fallen leader instead Commanding-General Archer Christifori is again made leader of the Star League by the Star League Advisory Council until another can be elected.  Archer's first action is to confirm that the First Royal Black Watch Regimental Brigade will remain on Tamarind as a mark of respect until a new First Lord is elected an announcement that is welcomed by the people of Tamarind.

Capellan Confederation Offensive
St Ives PDZ, Capellan March
Federated Suns
15th August 3095

   In response to the St Ives Compact's 'surrender' to the Federated Suns Capellan Confederation troops invade the worlds of Brighton, Taga, Nashur, Indicass and St Loris in a series of hard hitting attacks moving before further AFFS forces, including WarShips, can enter the PDZ.  They are pushed back off Nashur, Indicass and St Loris however the defenders casualties are high with the Third St Ives Janissaries RCT destroyed in the fighting on St Loris with the survivors folded into the other Janissaries units.  Some of the survivors request a transfer to the Ceti Hussars RCTs as they are similar in formation to their fallen unit and they are away from the Capellan border.

   Included in the Capellan's force is Miller's Mailed Fist Mercenary Command a Battalion sized command which normally specialized in garrison contracts for the Capellan.  The unit which is made up of former Taurian Concordat officers and warriors jumps at the chance to punish the now badged AFFS St Ives based units.

The Triad
Mount Wotan, Tharkad
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
21st August 3095

   For four years The Triad a sprawling complex made up of over three hundred buildings had been off limits to citizens and workers of the Lyran Commonwealth.  When Tharkad's massive nuclear power reactor had exploded in 3091 the area had been saturated with radioactive particles making the area inaccessible.

   The Lyran Armed Forces had spent considerable resources on cleaning up the mess that had been left with troops in the area every single day cleaning and sterilizing everything that had been left in the contaminated zone.  Archon Peter Steiner-Davion had stayed away from the area not to crowd the workers but today was an important one he and his wife Isis Steiner walked through the snow through the area turning to the camera crew Peter smiled proudly “ladies and gentlemen please join me in rejoicing over the opening of The Triad and the Royal Court buildings here on Tharkad.”  He said “our military have worked tirelessly to make sure this area is safe for all to visit and to work” he said looking around “to the people of Arcturus, who are likely sitting at home right now thinking that they will soon be abandoned, I will be keeping my family home on Arcturus.”  He said breaking the news traditionally the Royal Family had stayed near the Triad and the Government buildings “more decentralization to our nation will help us in the future adapt to future hurdles while The Triad will once more be the centre of our government.”

   He said some of the people would not like what Peter had planned but with these changes he hoped that if Tharkad or Arcturus was taken out then the Lyran nation would not be decapitated in one swoop.  Peter's actions brought support from the Isle of Skye Decentralized Government who cite the greater flexibility and growth that the Isle of Skye has encountered since the government had received further powers.

Commanding-General's Announcement
Thorin, Star League Protectorate
28th August 3095

   As Commanding-General/First Lord-protem Archer Christifori calls for a Federated Suns and Draconis Combine cease fire and peace talks the Federated Suns launch a three pronged counter attack on the Draconis Combine with Victor Steiner-Davion launching an assault on Xhosa III assisting the Crucis Lancers units on the planet while his son Burton Davion launched an assault on Doneval III and Duke Tancred Sandoval targeting Le Blanc.  In all three attacks the Davion forces are supported by WarShips and utilize orbital support fire in open areas to break the Draconis Combine lines and to force them to operate in smaller groups.  On all three worlds the Combine troops remain engaged with the AFFS troops contesting the worlds while further DCMS attacks strike back at the worlds of New Mendham, Marlow's Folly and Mata expanding the fighting along the border.  On Xhosa III Victor Steiner-Davion knows that the fighting cannot continue but also knows that the Combine has not answered two calls for peace.

Mercenary Formation
Nashur, St Ives PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
29th August 3095

   Following the Capellan Confederation attacks on the former St Ives Compact worlds survivors of the Third St Ives Janissaries RCT refuse to be folded into the other Janissaries units like the other warriors.  Instead they tender their resignations from the AFFS forming with several other VTOL pilots forming the Apache Wing a new mercenary command under the command of Major Victoria McCauley.

   The members of the command put together their monies to purchase an experimental Cloud Ten Carrier Airship.  The one thousand ton vessel is capable of carrying sixteen of the unit's VTOLs while their Mule-class DropShip is capable of fully supporting the unit.  Intent on keeping themselves away from the Capellan Confederation the unit accepts a contract with the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey.

Don't work to hard DC.

Great to see my Battalion in the story thanks.

Nova Cat Raid
Filtvelt Coalition, Periphery
1st October 3095

   The Filtvelt Coalition suffer a series of raids from Clan Nova Cat which strike at Sherwood, Brookton, Ebro, Morven, Lackland and Broken Wheel.  The Nova Cat unit, Sigma Galaxy, fight a series of honour trials against the Filtvelt Coalition.  On Broken Wheel the the 449th Assault Cluster, the unit formerly commanded by Elson West, fought against the Third Filtvelt Guardians Regiment the unit which had killed Elson West.  Although the 449th defeated the Third Filtvelt Guardians the Nova Cat command were impressed with the Coalition unit's adherence to Zellbrigen and released two pristine condition PAT-005b Puma Assault Tanks. These Royal vehicles had been maintained by the Nova Cats since the fall of the SLDF and since they were not Clan vehicles their maintenance would be easier for the periphery command.

Peace Negotiations
Al Na'ir, Ashio Prefecture
Bejamin Military District, Draconis Combine
15th October 3095

   With the SLS Invincible and the SLDF's Third Brigade, First Division, the Bolton's Rangers Regimental Brigade in system First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion and Field Marshal Tancred Sandoval along with their own escorts had been allowed to enter the Al Na'ir system.  The AFFS units had been allowed to land in a desolate area of the planet for several hours they had waited until a Bolton's Rangers Battalion had arrived and escorted them to the meeting area.

   Now Victor and Tancred sat in a barely decorated room waiting for the DCMS party to arrive eventually Tai-shu Boris Petroff and newly named Duke of Al Na'ir Akira Tormark entered the room as stipulated by the SLDF who guarded the building the Draconis Combine party, like Victor and Tancred, had no weapons or guards however Victor knew that Akira was a very accomplished fighter.

   â€œThese battles must end, you have admitted your actions were wrong...” Akira began immediately not waiting for introductions.

   â€œOut actions!” Tancred shouted back angrily raising to his feet his hands clenched “if your people had not attempted to murder my family...”

   â€œA falsity made up by your MIIO your own people have turned on you.”  Akira Tormark claimed immediately Tancred glanced at Victor exposing the tension between them.

   â€œTai-shu Petroff, should we start again?”  He asked looking at the District Warlord ignoring both Akira and Tancred.

   â€œYes, First Prince Davion, we should” he said glancing at Akira before back to Victor “both sides have made mistakes” he admitted “we have both won victories and had losses.”

   â€œYes we have” Victor agreed

   â€œWe will maintain all our hold on our victories you will hold all of yours.”

   â€œUnacceptable” Victor said “you and I both know that the worlds you hold on Dobson, Breed and Paris will bring us into conflict again.”

   â€œLike the attacks that you authorized before coming to these negotiations” Akira retorted

   â€œOur units are retaliating to threats against our March” Tancred responded in kind with the Duke.

   â€œInstead I suggest an exchange” Victor suggested

   â€œI'm listening”

   â€œYou will return Dobson, Marduk, Tripoli, Paris and Breed to us.”  Victor said effectively eliminating the Draconis Combine push toward Robinson.  “We will return Romam, Mata, Barlow's Folly and New Mendham.”  He suggested not mentioning the worlds the Combine had taken from the Addicks PDZ, including Al Na'ir, those worlds would have to wait for another day.

   â€œWe will exchange Dobson and Breed for the worlds of Romam and Mata” Petroff suggested

   â€œSo you can maintain your push at Robinson, New Ivaarsen and Proserpina I think not” Victor said

   â€œProserpina is one of our worlds” Akira Tormark said the world had not been a Combine world for more than a decade.

   â€œNot any more” Tancred shot back Victor almost snapped at the two of them they were going to be a problem in the future he knew this.

   â€œYou have already lost Dobson and Breed will be lost sooner or later” Victor said “you can't hope to hold either beyond the week especially if I commit my reserves.”  He said the only reserves he had were the Tikonov Cossacks which would gut the Crucis March's defences.  “Marduk, Tripoli and Paris for Barlow's Folly and New Mendham.”

   â€œWe maintain Marduk, you cannot take it Victor Davion without heavy losses” Petroff said the other worlds we will exchange as you say.  We will also, as a sign of our good will, will release the survivors of the Tenth Deneb Light Cavalry LCT along with any prisoners we have.”  The Warlord said

   â€œAnd we will release the prisoners we have” Tancred said the AFFS didn't have a massive amount of POWs from this conflict but they had more than were managable.

   â€œAgreed” Victor said standing up the Warlord joined him standing “your units fought well.”

   â€œAs did yours” Petroff said.

   While the two leaders understood where they were there was obvious tension between Tormark and Sandoval, something that Victor and now Petroff would have to keep an eye on, both sides knew that this conflict was over but it wouldn't be long before it started again.

Command Bridge, LCS Archon's Pride (Alliance-class Cruiser)
Great X, Arc-Royal Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
22nd October 3095

   The LCS Archon's Pride, commanded by Kommodore Jessica Steiner, held just out of maximum range to a Clan Jade Falcon Sovetskii Soyuz-class WarShip which had entered the system unannounced.  So far the WarShip had not tried to push into the system nor had any of the DropShips appeared to detach from the Heavy Cruiser.  Aerospace fighters and DropShips from the Archon's Pride had been patrolling the area between the two vessels.  On the command bridge Jessica Steiner watched the monitors which displayed information on the enemy vessel.

   â€œWe could take them” her executive officer Marc Esnault said from the side their ship was a superior vessel to the the Star League-era Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser.

   â€œThey haven't made a hostile move since arriving in the system.”

   â€œThere very presence is a hostile act.”

   â€œMarc, are you so ready for another fight?  The last time this WarShip was in a major battle we lost a third of the crew.”  She said speaking of their encounter with the Manei Domini.

   â€œWe cannot be afraid of a fight because of a loss.”  Jessica breathed heavily the man was a good first officer but sometimes she could scream at him.

   â€œAre you questioning my command?”  She said in a clear voice so others could hear she'd deal with her XO and the Jade Falcons in her own way.

   â€œNo, Kommodore, just advising you.”

   â€œVery good continue to monitor them rotate the patrols regularly all pilots get some time out there but they are to remain within our sphere of influence.”  She ordered Marc nodded the Lyrans and Jade Falcons maintained their stand-off for fourteen hours before the Jade Falcon vessel jump clear of the system without further incident.

Purchase Order
Lockheed/CBM of Tharkad, Tharkad
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
28th October 3095

   Authorized by the Lyran Commonwealth's High Command Lockheed/CBM of Tharkad accept an order from the Star League Defence Force to produce eight Peter-class Scout vessels over a period of eleven years.  The SLDF request access to one of the Lyran's Peter-class Scouts to train their crews however the Lyran High Command refuse access to their ships.  Lockheed/CBM however have no restrictions on the SLDF visiting their construction facilities and testing the vessels in their advanced simulators which allow the crews to look at the ships and how they would act in space while on the ground.

Burton is just like his father Victor.   Traveling the galaxy and knocking up the next available female that is in a leadership position!   

3095 has flown by!!  Into December ending the year with a bang!

Irian Shipyards of Clipperton
Clipperton, Bowang Free Trade Sphere   
Former-Free Worlds League
4th December 3095

   Several explosions ripped through warehouse sections of the Irian Shipyards of Clipperton as they did several DropShips were forcefully ejected from the facilities while many others were ordered to detach before secondary explosions caused damage to them.  While emergency teams moved in on the facility from the planet and from the Wolf's Dragoons WarShip Athena while the evacuating DropShips moved to a safe distance allowing access.  In the confusion four Behemoths which had been used as extra storage for the shipyards, holding Naval Autocannons, Naval Lasers and WarShip Grade armour, changed course heading towards a pirate point.  Before anyone in the system could react the DropShips were out of weapons range meeting up with a recently arrived Star Lord-class JumpShip; they rapidly docked with the JumpShip and the vessel left the system.  Who had caused the explosions or stolen the equipment is currently unknown lacking enough intelligence and investigative staff to look into it themselves the Bowang Free Trade Sphere officially hire a WolfNet team from the Wolf's Dragoons to assist.

SLDF Assault
Sharpe, Hidden World
Capellan Confederation
12th December 3095

   Multiple flashes of light occurred at the Zenith and Nadir points of the Sharpe system as eight WarShips, three Drones and several JumpShips entered the system.  Fleet Admiral Anthony Fitzgerald stood on the bridge of the SLS Shining Claw, the Congress Block II-class Frigate, commanding the fleet.  “Get our people off the drones and have them set loose” he ordered seeing the WarShip's sensors light up as the Shining Claw detected the space station in the system; exactly where Interstellar Expeditions had reported it.

   â€œThe crews are setting up the systems they report they will need at least thirty minutes to fully prep the ship's AI systems.”

   â€œSir, we've been hailed by an SLDF Communication Buoy stating this system is under SLDF Quarantine” communications reported gaining some confused looks, there was no record of a quarantine in this system.

   â€œWe have nearly two dozen DropShip sized signatures and nearly two hundred aerospace fighters launching from the space station.”  Another officer at sensors reported immediately taking everyone's attention “we are being targeted by Capital Missiles!”  He called out as alerts sounded as the holo-tank was filled with multiple smaller signatures representing DropShips and aerospace fighters and then multiple red dots representing missiles.

   â€œActivate all point defences.  Stand-off weapons” Fitzgerald reported “target the space station with capital missiles and particle cannons.  Launch all aerospace fighters and DropShips.  I want a kill zone on both jump points none of their units get close enough to cause us serious grief if it means the station gets less attention, that's fine for now.  Have the Surprise target the station with her main weapon and fire at will” he ordered.  This was the Surprise's first deployment since its refit at the Titan Shipyards.  “At least they don't have any Caspers” he whispered looking at the screens it looked like there was only the space station, based just off the Jump points, and the DropShips and fighters assigned to it.

   Time ticked by as swarms of DropShips and aerospace fighters attempted to approach the SLDF naval vessels but their barrage of weapons fire had kept them back.  The SLDF WarShips sensors had confirmed that the Space Station they were facing was an M9 Pavise SDS Space Station. With the preparation crews abandoning the now active Drones Fitzgerald sent the message to their command AI systems all three Caspers accelerated away from the jump points.

   â€œNadir Group will approach the dorsal side of the M9 full broadsides into the station's hull.  Zenith Group will cross the ventral surface we will split their fire and attention.  The M5s will launch direct slashing attacks on the station directly the more attention they take the less people we lose.”

   â€œThey won't last long against that station” Andrew Brown the commander of the Shining Claw said.

   â€œThey don't need to last long just distract them so we can close” Fitzgerald said watching as the three drones accelerated at three g's acceleration straight at the space station.  The weapons fire from the M9 rapidly changed from the SLDF WarShips onto the three Drones initially the weapons fire was inaccurate due to the SLDF Drones speed but rapidly the weapons fire was becoming more accurate cutting into the three ships.

   â€œSCD-1 has sustained two direct hits from naval gauss fire to its forward section” someone called out “a third and fourth strike.”  They reported the Drones were taking a pounding as they approached but they were also causing heavy damage to the space station, as were the approaching SLDF WarShips, “SLS Surprise has scored a direct hit on the space station mid way along the hull, we have power fluctuations in that area.”

   â€œHave them concentrate on that area, naval missiles to target that section as well, adjust our course to bring us over that section of the station.”  Fitzgerald ordered watching as less weapons seemed to be coming from one section of the station if they could get into that area of the station's weapons then the SLDF vessels could suffer less damage.

   The Drones were ahead of the SLDF WarShips and constantly switching positions SCD-1 had slipped to the back of the formation and rotated it was now traveling in reverse compared to the other two ships.  The three ships were continuing to take heavy damage from the space station and now from their DropShips and aerospace fighters.  Now moving into near point blank range with the space station they pumped salvo after salvo into their target.

   â€œWhat are they doing?”  Fitzgerald whispered more to himself watching as the two fully operational drones both rolled over the nose of the crippled drone soaking up fire intended for the damaged drone.  “Oh no” he said realizing what they were doing “pull everyone back, all forces execute escape vector Gamma!”  He shouted stepping forward “all ships are to abandon their attack runs fight defensively!”  He commanded he was stepping on Andrew Brown's shoes but he'd seen something.

   The two front Drones peeled away from the third vessel opening up with full broadside attacks on the Pavise while the third vessel continued straight on into the one and a half million ton space station slamming into the massive station.  Suddenly the two other Drones rolled over and under the station firing continuously into the station.  “They are leaving themselves exposed” Brown said as SCD-1, embedded in the station, exploded into a massive fireball crippling the station's defences.  Both of the other drones sustained multiple hits from the DropShips and aerospace fighters while the space station's far side guns tore into the two remaining Drones.

   â€œThey've given us the opening” Fitzgerald said ignoring the deaths of the remaining two Casper Drones “all ships rendezvous at these coordinates” he said punching in the numbers transmitting them “target the section SCD-1 struck, kill that station.”  He ordered the SLDF forces were still taking fire from the M9 but it was much reduced since drones sacrifice.

   â€œInvincible's been hit!”  Someone called out on the bridge Commodore Andrew Brown manipulated the holo-tank's controls zooming in on the battle-cruiser.  The enhanced imagery fed directly from the Shining Claw's sensors showed the aft hull had been heavily pitted by several direct hits from naval gauss rifle fire.

   â€œTheir engines are gone she's drifting into space.”  Brown commented on “she's ballistic away from the fighting.”  He said seeing the Invincible was still able to fire which at least allowed it to defend itself.

   â€œTrack her” Fitzgerald ordered, “we'll send recovery teams to her when this is all over.”  He said seeing it could defend itself he just hoped that the Battle-cruiser's life support systems had not been compromised.  The remaining seven SLDF WarShips launched attack after attack on the crippled section of the space station cutting through the ship's structure and hull because massive sections of the station were damaged it was unable to properly defend itself.  The Pavise sustained more and more damage its sections slowly went dead one after another until finally the station went completely dark its power grid completely failing the drones that had been controlled by the station suddenly lacked commands.  Instead of shutting down they began to attempt suicide runs on the SLDF WarShips a couple got through causing glancing blows on the WarShips but nothing critical.  With the space station and its drones disabled six of the remaining SLDF WarShips continued on towards the planet while the SLS Truce of Tukayyid moved to assist the disabled SLS Invincible.  Most of the WarShips would need extensive repair work once the operation was complete in this system but for now they would serve very well in convincing the planet that force was not what they wanted to use.

   Four days later the SLDF WarShips and nearly two dozen SLDF DropShips arrived in orbit over the planet to receive a welcome from the planet.  “This is Governor John Michael O'Donnell to the Star League Defences Forces welcome back to Sharpe.  I hope your training exercises went well, our ground forces are ready for your selection and inspection.”  The voice said SLDF officers exchanged glances across the Shining Claw's Command Deck.

   â€œSend word to the Commanding-General of our welcome” Admiral Fitzgerald said “hold all ground forces in orbit.”  He said “I will head to the planet with the First Marines.”  He said naming the embarked Battle Armour force on the SLS Shining Claw.

   â€œSir they could hold you against us.”

   â€œAnd when the Commanding-General arrives I become just another officer.”  He said looking at Brown “I'm also curious about what's going on down there” he said smirking Fitzgerald had won the battle now he wanted to reap the rewards.

   Nearly an hour later one of the Shining Claw's two Taihou Assault DropShips descended through the atmosphere landing at an airfield on the outskirts of a very modern capital city.  As the DropShip taxied towards a hanger Admiral Anthony Fitzgerald could see lines of infantry troopers, lines of Nighthawk Power Armour suits and lightly armoured vehicles all painted in the colours of the SLDF.  “Blake's Blood!” He whispered out of shock the two younger officers piloting the ship looked at him in surprise.  “Guess it's time to meet the locals.”  He said heading back through the ship a squad of Battle Armour suited marines stood ready he nodded to them as he approached straightening his uniform jacket as they opened the doors.

   The Battle Armour squad led the way quickly followed by by Fitzgerald and then a second battle armour squad two of troopers followed him as he approached the governor a large jovial looking man in his early fifties Fitzgerald guessed with a well trimmed mustache that was beginning to show signs of grey.  “Welcome, welcome, welcome” he said smiling broadly “I am Jack O'Donnell Governor of Sharpe” he said introducing himself he clearly descended from Irish blood with his name and accent.  “Admiral, it has been more than a year since the SLDF were last here, we were beginning to think you had forgotten us?  The Capellans have also avoided this system, it's like we have dropped off the star maps.”  He said laughing lightly

   â€œI am Fleet Admiral Anthony Fitzgerald" he said introducing himself "it's been many months?”  Anthony asked trying not to sound too confused to his knowledge neither the SLDF or Capellan Confederation had been to this system for centuries.

   â€œYes, well obviously, the SLDF's station has defended us from all threats but we have not had any visitors on the ground for quite some time.  Major-General Dietz was worried he would go through an entire generation of soldiers before your returned for a selection.”  He said turning leading Fitzgerald towards the arrayed forces.

   â€œOf course”

   â€œInteresting new technology you have arrived with Admiral.”  He asked glancing at the two imposing Battle Armour suits “you will have to share this with us, a new DropShip as well we could incorporate much of it into our training regime here with your permission of course.”  He commented “is there a Training Precentor with you?”

   â€œTraining Precentor...” Fitzgerald began startled by the term “not on this occasion Governor” he said leaning in “if I can be honest with you, this is more an informal visit than a selection, consider this visit more of a re-connection after our separation.”  Fitzgerald said walking forward with the Governor.

   â€œOf course, please allow me to introduce you to Major-General Keifer Dietz commander of the Ninety-fifth Sharps Rifles Division, Major-General this is Admiral Fitzgerald Star League Navy.”

   â€œSir” Dietz said saluting “the Ninety-fifth stand ready.”

   â€œThe Ninety-fifth Division?” Fitzgerald replied

   â€œYes sir as per previous instructions we have increased the size of our standing forces to four infantry regiments, one armour regiment and one power armour regiment.”

   â€œSix regiments” Fitzgerald replied impressed “no Mechs or aerospace forces?”

   â€œNo sir as per previous briefings Mech and aerospace production and training remain elsewhere although we do have areas marked out should the SLDF choose to expand their production facilities.”

   â€œOf course” Fitzgerald said whoever had been pretending to be the SLDF had built a massive conventional force not mention an entire regiment of Nighthawks the money involved in hiding this system, building the M9 and now all these ground forces was astronomical.  He didn't know how he would explain to them that they'd been lied to over all these years or how he was going to explain to them that the Commanding-General was on his way here.  This world was in for a shock as was the Inner Sphere when they discovered what was going on here.

Diplomatic Tour
Lum Habitat, Snow Raven Floating Enclave
Alpheratz, Raven Alliance
19th December 3095

   In an effort to explain for and cover Prince Burton Davion's presence in the Raven Alliance Khan Sterling McKenna had announced that the Prince was on a diplomatic mission from the Federated Suns to ensure the Snow Ravens were not mistreating the native population.  The Federated Suns had always held a good relationship with the Outworlds Alliance so it was a good cover while it would just give the Ravens another reason to be hostile towards him that worked in Sterling's favour as well the ancient proverb “keep your friends close, and your enemies closer” she could explain her close proximity to him as her effort to keep an eye on the Prince.

   As part of the tour Burton had been given a rare privilege and invite on board one of the Snow Raven's Floating Enclaves.  Built in the early years of the Raven Alliance when the native population and the Clan-born civilian castes were not getting on eighteen Floating enclaves had been built on Alpheratz with many more built on Quatre Belle, Dante and Antallos these the Snow Raven civilian and scientific castes were based keeping them safe from prying eyes.

   As Burton's VTOL had approached the massive facility he had seen how impressive it was with a central core which was approximately ninety metres across by ninety metres deep with at least nine visible decks.  Coming off this facility at different angles were four “wings” each over one hundred metres long by at least sixty metres across.  Put together it had looked almost like a flying star suspended under a massive air balloon which extended into the upper atmosphere an extremely impressive achievement.

   The tour had gone very well as the Khan and her guest had moved without a single problem through the facility it was until they had returned to the hanger deck where everything had almost gone horribly wrong.  Through either negligence from one of the techs or an intentional attempt at assassination a fuel tank had ruptured beside a maintenance crew the resulting fire had engulfed some missile ammunition causing a minor explosion in the bay wrecking a VTOL in the process.  As shrapnel had flown across the deck only Burton Davion's quick actions had saved Sterling McKenna's life as he pushed her out of the path of the flying metal.  Unfortunately Burton had not been so luck several pieces had slammed into the prince's right leg smashing the bones and arteries there.  Medical Technicians had arrived promptly and saved the Prince's life but even now he was in the Lum Habitat's medical facility unconscious fighting for his life.

   â€œWhat is your prognosis?”  Sterling McKenna demanded she had some minor cuts to her forehead and shoulder.

   â€œHis leg needs to be amputated if not the damage done could cause further complications we cannot be certain that we all the breaks in his arteries have been completely repaired”  the doctor said briefing the Khan “should we try to nurse him to health we may open these wounds again while setting the bones.  Fortunately he is in prime health he would be a primary candidate an artificial limb.”

   â€œHe is not one of us” saKhan Thorsten Magnus said angrily “it was an accident.  We stabilize his condition and we send him home.”

   â€œWas it an accident?”  Sterling McKenna questioned how a Snow Raven maintenance crew could have been that negligent was beyond her an intentional attempt to cause problems was far more likely.

   â€œYou cannot be serious, Quineg?”  Magnus demanded “this was an accident, we owe him nothing more than saving his life!”

   â€œRemove the leg and bud his wound.”  Sterling ordered making up her mind she would not see Burton maimed for the rest of his life by an accident or by anything else.  “Have our scientist grow him another leg.”

   â€œHE IS NOT ONE OF US!” Magnus shouted angrily grabbing Sterling by her injured shoulder the pain was excruciating but it was also a very good motivator.  Grabbing Magnus by the collar with her other arm Sterling rapidly pivoted pulling Magnus along with her the MechWarrior's bulk did the rest as he tripped over her out stretched leg and flew across the room slamming into a nearby wall.

   â€œRemember who you speak to” Sterling reminded her saKhan walking over towards him as he pulled himself back onto his feet. “Should you wish to speak to me like that again declare your Circle or prepare for one to follow.”  She threatened in recent months he had become quite tiresome, she was beginning to understand why ground-pounders rarely raised to this level in the Raven Clan, how other Clans put up with people like this she didn't know.

   â€œWe should not waste resources on someone who is not even from our Clan” Magnus said his tone and voice more in control this time although she could tell he was angry with her “we do not even have his DNA on record to grow him another limb.”

   â€œThere was plenty of it on the deck after he saved me” Sterling shot back she didn't bother mentioning that Burton was currently in a medical facility and could not stop them taking his blood.  “Do what needs to be done Doctor but I expect my wishes to be adhered to, Quiaff?”

   â€œAff, my Khan, your wishes will be done I will have his records sent to the iron wombs for the growing of another limb.”  He promised her “we will transfer him to a ground facility for the rest of his care.”

   â€œVery good keep me informed” she ordered “saKhan Magnus I wish to keep the Prince's guards in the dark about what is going on.  Detain his bodyguards on the ground” she ordered “I do not want any of them killed, make sure our people are aware of this, Quiaff?”  She demanded using the Clan interrogative.

   â€œAff, my Khan, your wishes will be done” he said mimicking the scientist "what of his WarShip?”

   â€œHave the Snow Raven close range on it and stop it from attempting to leave the system.”

   â€œThey could jump anyway, at that distance our crew would not stand a chance” Magnus warned her.

   â€œAff, fine monitor them then” she said rubbing the injured side of her head instantly regretting it “they are not to approach the planet for any reason.  If they choose to leave they are to be challenged, but not fire on, in any system they enter.  If they choose to leave for the Federated Suns then so be it.”  She said personally she highly doubted that the WarShip would just abandon their Prince and heir but she had been wrong in the past; she had picked Thorsten Magnus as her saKhan, she thought.

   â€œIf they are allowed to leave, without Burton, then we will face war” Magnus argued back

   â€œNeg, Victor Davion would not risk the life of his first born child for anything, the First Prince would talk first.”  Sterling McKenna said after a moment's thought thinking of what she would do if her son was threatened.

   â€œFoolish” Magnus dismissed the idea out of hand.

   â€œPerhaps” she whispered in response glancing at Burton's unconscious form shaking thoughts of helplessness from her mind, she would trust the doctors to do their work and to carry out her wishes, not to something she could control.  “How goes the Watch's investigation into the explosion?”

   â€œThe Watch Commander reports that they have begun their interviews which are expected to last into tomorrow and possibly beyond.”

   â€œGood” she answered if this was an accident she'd make sure that it never happened again at any Snow Raven facility.  If it was an attempt against her life or Burton's she would ensure those responsible were counting down to their last breaths.

Emergency Star League Conference
HPG Network
Inner Sphere
29th December 3095

   Following the unexpected death of Captain-General Anthony Brett-Marik the leaders of the Star League's nation states choose to hold an Emergency Star League Conference via secure HPG link instead of all traveling to Terra.  In place of Anthony Brett-Marik the leader of the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth, Corrine Marik, is elected in his place defeating the leaders of the Taurian Concordat and Magistracy of Canopus who were both surprisingly nominated for the vote.  Initially the new First Lord expects to hold the position for three years, as it is normally, however the Council agree by majority vote that Corrine Marik is completing the term held by Anthony Brett-Marik and so her term will only be for the remaining two years of Anthony's term with the next Whitting Conference due in November 3098.  As almost a formality Archer Christifori is once again confirmed as Commanding-General by the House Lords and the peace treaty between the Federated Suns and Draconis Combine is officially announced to all the House Lords.