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Why bother, especially in a category that was as limited as this one was.

Because Clan.

You sure, next one is up.......

Hey gang, I have been working hard on finishing up the Quicksilver designs from our contests for TRO 3054. Wanted to show you all what I have come up with and get your comments to finalize the designs. So from our 1st Quicksilver Trail is the Claybeg (originally by LordGrayson) which won my consolation prize as the basis for a new Clan BattleMech. Please let me know what you think of this near completed version and if you spot any errors. Thanks!

BTW, the winner by MasterArminas which was the Nightcrawler should follow in the next few days. 

CLAYBEG
Mass: 20 tons
Chassis: Clan LT EndoSteel
Power Plant: GM 120
Cruising Speed: 64.8 kph
Maximum Speed: 97.2 kph
Jump Jets: None
   Jump Capacity: None
Armor: Armorscale
Armament: 1 Series 7J Extended Range Large Laser
   2 Series 1 Extended Range Small Lasers
Manufacturer: BattleMech Y3 Facility
   Primary Factory: York
Communications System: Opus I Ultrabeam
Targeting and Tracking System: Orion 80 with Targeting Computer

OVERVIEW
   The Claybeg captured the imagination of the Blood Spirits despite its initial defeat in the first Quicksilver Trail. Named for the “small sword” who some did not believe measured up to the Claymore this light Highlander ultimately finished second to the Burrock designed Nightcrawler. However one young ristar refused to admit defeat. Star Commander Kelvin of the Schmitt blood house urged his Clan not to forsake the project. Several problems with weapons and armor caused by “arbitrary time tables” could be fixed given time. After all, the Clans still possessed a large number of Thorn BattleMechs which supplied much of the Claybeg’s components. Since the entire point of the Quicksilver Program was to mobilize every possible asset scrapping this project would consign these machines to rot in Brian Caches. In much the same way Kelvin hoped that the Spirits would not abandon their true heritage as the esprit de corps. Impressed Khan Karianna Schmitt ordered her engineers to complete their work but also realized they would need help. This requirement was underlined in reports from Senior Scientist Norman (MacLeod) who stated that the limited resources put forward would have to entail additional fiscal and materiel support. Star Commander Kelvin was tasked with finding such assistance which effectively tested his inclusive philosophy. Pitching the new BattleMech as a rapid way to bolster flagging toumans in the wake of Tukayyid drew immediate interest from Clan Diamond Shark. Negotiations which began with this single project grew in scope proving difficult but in the end resulted in a new alliance. Financing for the Claybeg and other projects was secured in exchange for contracts to defend Shark holdings. Pleased with the outcome Khan Schmitt appointed Kelvin the new ilChi to the Diamond Sharks.

CAPABILITIES
   In a change from standard practice the only thing newly manufactured on the Claybeg is the internal structure. The Clan LT EndoSteel chassis was modeled after the legendary Highlander BattleMech but is much smaller in stature. This lightweight skeleton produced in zero gravity was initialed supplied by Diamond Shark and might be the only thing truly exclusive to this design. Everything else was salvaged from existing sources like the Thorn BattleMech or the Ku Wheeled Assault Tank. The armor, the electronics, the gyroscope and the power plant were all taken from the Thorn which served honorably for centuries. Of those only the GM 120 Fusion Engine was significantly refurbished with Clan Double Heat Sinks to efficiently cool the BattleMech in combat. While the Armorscale plating looks different that is because of the new underlying frame it remains essentially unchanged. This conventional armor provides it with ninety two percent of maximum possible protection. This war machine was built around the concept of staying in operation as long as possible without support. With this belief in mind the BattleMech was outfitted with energy weapons for prolonged engagements. One Series 7J Extended Range Large Laser and two Series 1 Extended Range Small Lasers drawn straight from the Ku Wheeled Assault Tank comprise this ammo free arsenal. These weapons are linked to an advanced Targeting Computer that allows the Claybeg to effectively engage enemies at long range while using its small size and speed to avoid damage. Engineers placed this armament centrally to overcome major peripheral damage and still carry on the fight. The design also mounts Hand Actuators which could carry out close quarters combat something most Clanners would not consider before their return to the InnerSphere. A simple and reliable design technicians love its dependable and time tested systems not to mention the roomy interior space. It is also the most affordable BattleMech currently in Clan service whose ease of maintenance and modular ready capability have fast made it a favorite despite its slight frame.

DEPLOYMENT
   A Clan BattleMech operating in a similar fashion to the Wasp or Stinger would be unthinkable before the invasion. Some in the Kerensky Cluster still consider the twenty ton chassis too fragile and a poor investment outdated by superior Clan technology. The Blood Spirits are disproving some of those assumptions by effectively using the Claybeg in their “Diamond Shield” campaigns. Clever bidding in conjunction with the natural terrain has produced some stunning defensive successes. Enemies have quickly found themselves unable to close to effective attack range against this swift reaching Light ‘Mech. While victorious these fall back tactics have produced a string of criticisms from traditional Blood Spirit foes like the Burrocks. Going so far as to call the design a “glorified Elemental” they have steadfastly condemned its wasteful production. Such disapproval has failed to slow its spread to other Clans by way of Diamond Shark merchants. Looking to bolster their devastated Touman rapidly the Smoke Jaguars purchased several runs which they have deployed ruthlessly to crush resistance in their Occupation Zone. Many have been modified by removing their existing armament along with the advanced targeting computer to maximize their aptitude for crowd control. Six Small Pulse Lasers which never need reloading provide continuously accurate firepower against any would be dissidents. Steel Viper has become the third largest users of the Claybeg purchasing them as training ‘Mechs. These machines have filled out their Newt Clusters in much the same way as the Caracara has done for the Jade Falcon Eyrie Clusters. Diamond Shark has opted to sell most of their Claybegs rather than employ them in rebuilding their battered Touman. Hell’s Horses is currently testing a few in second line formations to support infantry and armor like its predecessor, the Thorn. Intrigued by its highly precise long range weaponry Fire Mandrill and Goliath Scorpion are also evaluating the Claybeg in their garrison clusters.
 
Type: Claybeg
Technology Base: Clan Level 2
Tonnage: 20 tons

Equipment                           Mass
Internal Structure:       EndoSteel            1
Engine:            120               4
   Walking MP:         6
   Running MP:      9
   Jumping MP:      0               0
Heat Sinks:            10 (20)            0
Gyro:                              2
Cockpit:                           3
Armor Factor:         64               4

            Internal Structure      Armor Value
   Head            3            7
   Center Torso        6            9 / 2
   R/L Torso         5            8 / 2
   R/L Arm         3            5
   R/L Leg         4            8

Weapons and Ammo:      Location      Critical   Mass
ER Large Laser         Center Torso   1      4
ER Small Laser         Right Torso      1      .5
ER Small Laser         Left Torso      1      .5
Targeting Computer      Head         1      1

Thank you sir! Anything else on the Claybeg? Here is the winner for Trail 1, the Nightcrawler by Master Arminas. Enjoy!!

NIGHTCRAWLER
Mass: 20 tons
Chassis: Segmented XX EndoSteel
Power Plant: 140 Fusion Engine
Cruising Speed: 75.6 kph
Maximum Speed: 118 kph
Jump Jets: None
   Jump Capacity: None
Armor: Compound Alpha Ferro-Fibrous
Armament: 5.5 tons of pod space available for weapons and equipment
Manufacturer: Albion Armor Works Gamma
   Primary Factory: Albion
Communications System: Trueborn Ultra 945B
Targeting and Tracking System: Series XXX Multi-track

OVERVIEW
   Clan Burrock was among the first to answer the call of the ilKhan with the prototype of their Nightcrawler OmniMech. First produced by Burrock Scientists in 3037 the design was named after a species of nocturnal carnivorous beetle indigenous to Eden. Desiring more powerful (heavier) OmniMechs the Khans quickly order these prototypes mothballed. But since the ilKhan commanded a design for every weight class, the Burrock leadership jumped ahead by pulling the twenty ton Nightcrawler from mothballs and in the process became the very first Clan to submit a design to the ilKhan . . . just eleven days after he issued his request! Ulric Kerensky was rather taken aback at the speed of the Burrock response and the fact that they shipped him not only design schematics and computer simulations, but a full Star of five complete and ready-to-field prototypes! In a move calculated to sow division amongst the Crusaders, Kerensky publicly praised the Burrocks as a shining example of a well-prepared Crusader Clan. Performing well against five other competitors during the first Quicksilver Trail on Strana Mechty the Burrock entry would earn a place as a finalist against the Claybeg designed by Blood Spirit. The feud between the two ancient enemies added to the intense closing challenge which would see the Nightcrawler emerge victorious thanks in large part to its superior speed. Assistance from Steel Viper and Diamond Shark engineers helped put the final touches on the new OmniMech that rolled off the Albion production lines in late 3053.

CAPABILITIES
   Massing just twenty tons the Nightcrawler utilized Clan Endo-Steel to construct its Segmented XX chassis which helped save available mass. In much the same way three and a half tons of Compound Alpha Ferro-Fibrous was used to protect the Light ‘Mech. This advanced lightweight armor which could be found on the Huntsman OmniMech, the Locust IIC BattleMech, and the Svanotvit Infantry Fighting Vehicle provides more than ninety seven percent of maximum coverage.
   A standard 140 Fusion Engine which had been used on the Howler BattlMech as well as the Odin Scout Tank was included to save costs; although larger than the 120-rate minimum power requirement issued by the ilKhan, this engine was sufficient to provide for a walking speed of 75.6 kilometers per hour and a running speed of 118.8 kph; at least one known configuration features seven jump jets for a maximum jump capacity of two hundred and ten meters as well.
   Despite being the fastest submission during the initial Quicksilver Trail which used EndoSteel and Ferro-Fibrous, the Nightcrawler remained low cost and easy to produce for Clans without extensive resources. One reason for this was the use of existing components like the Trueborn Ultra 945B Communication System from the Adder and the Series XXX Multi-track Targeting System from the Kit Fox. These proven electronics supplied by Burrock allies fit well into the design and required little capital investment.
   However, the design also featured a very low pod-space for a Clan OmniMech with just five and half tons available for weapons and equipment. Burrock Scientists and Warriors managed to create some workable configurations despite having a ton less pod space than the venerable Fire Moth. All configurations below are equipped with lower arm and hand actuators on both arms, unless other noted.
   The Nightcrawler Prime is armed with two ER Medium Lasers (right arm and left arm) and five SRM-2 launchers fed by a single ton of ammunition. With fifty missile salvoes available this ammo can be spent after ten rounds of constant fire. Two SRMs are fitted to the right torso along with the ammo bin, two to the left torso, and one in the center. With ten Double Heat Sinks only movement heat is generated on an Alpha Strike.
   Configuration A has three sub-variants, all differing only in the electronics carried. Each is armed with two Medium Pulse Lasers (right arm and left arm) and a Flamer (right torso). The A-1 carries an Active Probe; the A-2 instead is outfitted with an ECM Suite; and the A-3 is armed with TAG. Each is mounted in the center torso. Very cool running and capable of accurate fire, the Nightcrawler A is a superb scout.
   Configuration B with multiple LRM launchers was included to counter indirect fire barrages by AFFC lances of Dervishes and Valkyries. This Steel Viper variant from their Bone Lion entry is very cool running and able to provide on-call fire-support at range. This long range missile fire is somewhat limited because it only carries a single ton of ammunition. A single ER Small Laser is the sole energy weapon that can ward off nearby opponents without logistical assistance.
   Configuration C was inspired by the Diamond Shark entry known as the Sea Hound which is similar to the Piranha. Using its Active Probe to seek out enemy infantry its eight Machine Guns and four Extended Range Small Lasers can quickly eliminate this pesky opposition. With one hundred rounds of ammunition the machine guns can fire a dozen rounds continuously before needing resupply.
   Configuration D is the long-range sniper of the Nightcrawler family and it too was altered thanks to its Quicksilver competition. With an Extended Range Large Laser in the right arm, supported by an Extended Range Small Laser in the left arm both linked to a Targeting Computer it closely resembles its archrival the Claybeg. Ideal for extended operations thanks to its all energy weapon arsenal this variant is also cool running.
   And finally, there is Configuration E. This model has seven jump jets (one center torso, three right torso, and three left torso) that puts a severe crimp in the available space for weapons. With only two tons remaining, the Burrocks went with the most efficient combination – a pair of ER Medium Lasers mounted in each arm.

DEPLOYMENT
   Burrock has vigorously promoted the Nightcrawler to other Clans through frequent raiding. Enemies soon learned not to underestimate this tough little war machine which earned a small measure of respect in Clan space. Still a strong rivalry remains between this new Light OmniMech and the Blood Spirit piloted Bloodwing. Driven by differing tactical doctrines and a blood feud these Quicksilver creations have frequently squared off in combat. Thus far the results are surprisingly even and the Burrocks remain the only Clan with manufacturing rights to this design.
   As the need to rebuild from Tukkayid became apparent the Steel Vipers challenged for rights to the new twenty ton OmniMechs. Despite the failure of their Bone Lion entry they recognized the Nightcrawler could bolster their Inner Sphere formations. Gaining access to its production through combat and trade this Invading Clan has become the second largest user to date. Not highly regarded within the Clan it is typically piloted by warriors fresh out of sibko or whose transfer to solahma units has been deferred by the need to rebuild frontline clusters.
   Star Adder has apparently obtained a large quantity of these ‘Mechs through their Burrock allies and Diamond Shark merchants. A number of these machines have been spotted in front line formations causing some to wonder if the Clan had incurred significant losses recently. The Adders claim that they are simply integrating lighter forces into their Touman for improved combat performance. While adding such rapid responders to their forces is an admirable claim many still want to know what happened to the heavier assets they replaced.
   The Diamond Sharks have been accused of double dealing by Blood Spirit isolationists who see their involvement with the Nightcrawler as a betrayal. While the Sharks have pointed out their own proposal named the Sea Hound which was defeated, their right to access Nightcrawler production via these same trails, and receipts of sale to others these hardliners remain undeterred. This opposition is not strong enough to upset the new alliance between these Clans but is likely to grow in the future. Both Blood Spirit and Fire Mandrill have publicly stated their refusal to use the Nightcrawler what so ever.
   Burrock graciously sent samples of their new product to the Wolves who quickly integrated them into their Epsilon and Sigma Galaxies. Their mid line status between front line and second line troops have made them repositories for such zombie units. Preferring the heavier twenty five ton class the Jade Falcons have also obtained a few for combat trails. The Cloud Cobra and Smoke Jaguar Clans also have access to production but have not elected to procure big numbers instead preferring the Fire Moth and the Bloodwing respectively.

Type: Nightcrawler
Technology Base: Clan Level 2
Tonnage: 20 tons

Equipment                           Mass
Internal Structure:       EndoSteel            1
Engine:            140               5
   Walking MP:         7
   Running MP:      11
   Jumping MP:      0               0
Heat Sinks:            10 (20)            0
Gyro:                              2
Cockpit:                           3
Armor Factor:         67               3.5

               Internal Structure      Armor Value
      Head            3            9
      Center Torso        6            8 / 2
      R/L Torso         5            8 / 2
      R/L Arm         3            6
      R/L Leg         4            8

Weight and Space Allocation
Location            Fixed            Spaces Remaining
Head                    1 EndoSteel            0
Center Torso           1 Ferro-Fibrous          1
Right Torso                 1 EndoSteel            8
                 1 Ferro-Fibrous
             2 Double Heat Sinks
Left Torso                 1 EndoSteel            6
                 1 Ferro-Fibrous
               Double Heat Sinks
Right Arm                     1 EndoSteel            4
                 1 Ferro-Fibrous
               Double Heat Sinks
Left Arm                   1 EndoSteel            4
                 1 Ferro-Fibrous
               Double Heat Sinks
Right Leg                 1 EndoSteel            0
                 1 Ferro-Fibrous
Left Leg                 1 EndoSteel            0
                 1 Ferro-Fibrous

Weapons and Ammo:      Location      Criticals   Mass
   Primary Weapons Configuration
ER Medium Laser         Right Arm      1      1
ER Medium Laser         Left Arm      1      1
2 SRM-2s            Right Torso      2      1
2 SRM-2s            Left Torso      2      1
SRM-2            Center Torso   1      .5
Ammo (SRM) 50         Right Torso      1      1
   Alternate Configuration A
Medium Pulse Laser      Right Arm      1      2
Medium Pulse Laser      Left Arm      1      2
Flamer            Right Torso      1      .5
(A-1) Active Probe       Center Torso   1      1
(A-2) ECM Suite          Center Torso   1      1
(A-3) TAG            Center Torso   1      1
   Alternate Configuration B
2 LRM-5s            Right Torso      2      2
2 LRM-5s            Left Torso      2      2
Ammo (LRM) 24         Right Torso      1      1
ER Small Laser         Center Torso   1      .5
   Alternate Configuration C
2 Machine Guns         Right Arm      2      .5
ER Small Laser         Right Arm      1      .5
2 Machine Guns         Left Arm      2      .5
ER Small Laser         Left Arm      1      .5
2 Machine Guns         Right Torso      2      .5
ER Small Laser         Right Torso      1      .5
2 Machine Guns         Left Torso      2      .5
ER Small Laser         Left Torso      1      .5
Ammo (Machine Gun)      Right Torso      1      .5
Active Probe         Center Torso   1      1
   Alternate Configuration D
ER Large Laser         Right Arm      1      4
ER Small Laser         Left Arm      1      .5
Targeting Computer      Center Torso   1      1
   Alternate Configuration E
ER Medium Laser         Right Arm      1      1
ER Medium Laser         Left Arm      1      1
3 Jump Jets            Right Torso      3      1.5
3 Jump Jets            Left Torso      3      1.5
Jump Jet            Center Torso   1      .5