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The Black Tigers: A Gathering Storm
Book One
A Distant Thunder
A novel by blacktigeractual
Chapter One: Departures
As we walk into this restaurant strung out from the road, you can feel the eyes upon you as you’re shaking off the cold. You pretend it doesn’t bother you, but you just want to explode…and you always feel outnumbered, you don’t dare take a stand.
Metallica covering Bob Seger; Turn the Page
Alaska, North American Administrative District, Terra
Terran Hegemony
03 May, 2784
On the Tri-D a battered Union class dropper was boosting from its pad. As the grey-white sphere lifted, it rotated revealing a crude feline eye painted in green.
The vapidly pretty blonde in the foreground waved back at the pillar of fire two miles behind her.
“And that’s it, with the launch of the Cat’s Eye; the 90th Heavy Assault Regiment leaves New York for the last time. Rumors are rampant with extremists on both the left and the right calling for their arrest on charges of desertion. The lack of comment from the Office of the Director-General has been puzzling at least. Opinions here in New York mostly blame those same politicians, one man I spoke to here at JFK held the opinion that the O-DOG should make a note of those whose voices spoke out loudest against the Black Tigers actions during the fall and sick the Committee for DeAmarisification on them…
Cut to a tall dignified man in a business suit standing in the Virgin Spacelines lounge. The caption read Colin Miller, J.P. Morgan Financial Services…
“No matter how you look at it Earth and the Hegemony stand alone now, the Tigers, God bless them are one thing even the House Lords fear. As ill advised as the August Revolt was they at least tried to hold things together unlike the opportunists now vilifying them. The fact that these poor souls are heroes is something not even the Warhawks and the Reunificationists can change…Just proves the old adage; some people will sell their grandmothers for a damn vote.â€
The camera cuts back to the newsroom and the anchor nods thoughtfully.
Thank you Melinda definitely food for thought. In related news Konrad Toyama; aide to Department of Communications head Jerome Blake answered allegations that he is tied to the Sword of Gaia, the militant arm of Earth First…
Henry Jones JR; heir to a dead dynasty, former general of the armies of the Amaris Empire and head mechanic at Derry and Sons, Alaska shook his head, kissing his wife Kailey on the top of her tousled blonde head. She looked up at him worried.
“Have you heard from Bruce?†She asked. Kailey who’d by now guessed his secret and didn’t care knew the main reason the two men kept in touch.
“Yeah, he’s okay with it, sort of. I mean look at what he’s moving to.†Henry glanced down at the woman who’d caught his heart and gave a lopsided grin.
“A big old castle on Chesterton, a Duchess for a wife…not bad for an army brat from Queens.†She nodded into his chest. He knew she and Sarah Davion texted each other sometimes after the night the couples spent together just after the Star League Officer’s wedding.
Henry’s brothers in law Kevin and Martin burst in then. Grins on their faces said it all. The pair were drunk.
“Well, we did it!†Kevin said staggering.
“Yes we did!†Martin laughed as their father Solomon came out of the kitchen to see what the ruckus was.
Arching an eyebrow Kailey fixed the pair with a stern glare.
“And what precisely did you two braniacs do?†She asked coolly as Solomon leaned against the door jamb.
The brothers’ smiles faltered a bit but Martin plowed ahead.
“We joined up, sis we’re in the Army now.â€
As chaos broke out in the Derry household, Solomon gave Henry a look. Knowing the question, Henry nodded. In the morning he’d look up some contacts Sonny had set up. Sourly he sat back thinking; Great, just what I need, to be back in the military, Dad must be laughing in his grave.
Deirdre Green sat on Chesterton’s Ducal Seat, literally. In the chair. It was for anyone who knew how the Davion nobility worked; Just Not Done. She didn’t care. In a month’s time she would have every right to this august chair. The legal issues surrounding a noble’s abandonment of his or her duties were clear under the laws of the Federated Suns’ Peerage.
John Davion, First Prince and Deirdre’s liege lord had been blocking her attempts to bring the region under her control. With the fall of the Star League however, the Davion Lord had too many things on his plate.
She smiled sensually stretching out on the throne’s plush cushions.
Thirty days, little Sarah, Chesterton will belong to the Greens and you my poor soiled little girl can run back to New Avalon and live off of your Uncle’s sufferance.
Turning her mind back to business she signed a document for the seizure of the McRae ranch north of here. Using the pretext of collusion with the Chesterton Liberation Front she would have the lucrative Cattle ranch under the control of one of her supporters in due time.
That the CLF was active if ineffectual was just icing on the cake. In the end Deirdre would use the revolutionaries, mostly pathetic upper class college students looking for a cause to make their hollow lives more meaningful, to solidify her hold on the region.
It was in short a beautiful irony.
IDS Cat’s Eye, two weeks out from Chesterton, two weeks later…
“…our cover’s holding so far.†David Martin said as I went over our mission brief with him in the Cat’s Eye’s ward room. The officers of my ad hoc battalion waited expectantly. ‘Rat, Gracie, Erica and Nerva led the ‘Mechs, Didi, Tranh and Josh Harding the infantry.
“Joshua Davion and Mr. Lee gave us the good deal with the IFF codes and registry documents to get us past Chesterton Port Control.†I said referring to John Davion’s brother and the elderly Capellan trader who handed off the codes and forms that now said the Cat’s Eye was really the Davion registered Free Trader Beowulf. Likewise her sister ships had similar covers.
I looked over my assembled team. Good people, the best you could ask for. Just hope nobody would die. I met Scott ‘MechRat Mackenzie’s eyes and he gave a wan smile. Liz’s decision to stay with that quisling Kerensky hadn’t gone over well. He’d keep his mind on the job tho’, he always did.
“Alrighty then…everybody here knows the op, but we’ve got some new information.†Again thanks to Mr. Lee. “The lovely Lady Green has hired a mixed bag of mercs to secure her position on Chesterton. ‘Bout a battalion of troops, mostly infantry, but enough ‘Mechs to cause a real problem…â€
“But Uncle John wants us to keep the bloodshed to a minimum.†Dido Moran grinned from her seat. Inwardly I groaned at Didi’s use of the Prince John’s nickname among the Tigers. Sarah assured me that the First Prince had had a good laugh when she’d told him about it.
“Pretty much,†I answered her, “Mr. Lee’s people have given us detailed intel on the OpFor’s disposition and I think we can put them down quick, Didi?†I gestured to the former SAS trooper.
As Didi began to detail her plan, I saw the others begin to grin.
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Thanks BTA - now to repost my earlier comments. ;)
Good stuff, really got to get together with you to discuss some novel things. :D
Mentioning Warhawks and the Reunificationists gives me some ideas. But what did you picture the Warhawks as being exactly? Anyone willing to go to war over their claim to the throne??
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Thanks BTA - now to repost my earlier comments. ;)
Good stuff, really got to get together with you to discuss some novel things. :D
Mentioning Warhawks and the Reunificationists gives me some ideas. But what did you picture the Warhawks as being exactly? Anyone willing to go to war over their claim to the throne??
Not so much war with anyone but they want, like House Davion, to issue a knockout blow early in the war everyone knows is coming. I see them as seeing the FWL and the DC as the most likely target. Unrealistic perhaps but when does anyone but a moderate make sense.
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Ah I envisioned the Warhawks as anyone willing to press their claim to the First Lordship via war and Reunificationists as folks constantly asking "can't we all just get along?". :)
Thanks for transferring your other book too BTA.
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Uncle John? ;D
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He's got a band too?
Besides, the potential for Robin Hood jokes is all over the place for "Prince John"... now I picture him with Peter Ustinov's voice from the animated Disney but looking like Claude Rains.
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Besides, the potential for Robin Hood jokes is all over the place for "Prince John"... now I picture him with Peter Ustinov's voice from the animated Disney but looking like Claude Rains.
Prince John: Mother... Mother always did like Richard best. :P
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The Sheriff of Chesterton is Guy Gisbourne? ::)
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The Sheriff of Chesterton is Guy Gisbourne? ::)
If we ever get the movie rights...wonder if he can do a NYC accent.
Sichuan Xue, biology teacher at the Landing Preparatory School was walking home from a late dinner with friends. Despite the say baht poh in the Ducal Palace (Mdme. Sichuan chastised herself for the curse in her native Cantonese, but it was true after all!) the area around the Palace was safe for a elderly woman to walk home at night. It was a beautiful night too. Chesterton’s three moons arranged in what some superstitious folk in the country thought a lucky pattern.
It was only a triangle formed by Whitehall at the top, Rosebud and Ebon forming the bottom. Pretty enough but only a natural formation after all. A blur of motion caught her eye. When she looked at the line of parked cars under the row of Lam trees there was noth…Wait there!
Almost two meters tall the shadowy form crouched almost on top of her. For a moment she almost screamed at the demonic form but then it did the strangest thing. Holding a finger up to the painted Tigers visage on the Helmet, a man in armor not a demon.
“Shhh. Don’t worry Grandmother, none of us will hurt you, so just hurry home now.â€
Despite the computer modulation of the man’s helmet Xue heard the kindness in his voice. She hurried away as more forms, some armored, some in clothes that distorted their forms and shifted colors to match the background. One paused and smiled at her, a flash of red hair and green eyes. A face she knew, from the Tri-D…Lady Sarah!
And then they were gone.
Sichuan Xue stared after them for a bit. Then looked back at the moons. Then she hurried home, to open a small box long kept locked away. Arranging the small figurines and the candles she said a small prayer to her ancestors. Her hands shook as she lit the candles.
Maybe the moons are lucky after all.
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All through the night strange noises rumbled in the Capitol. Strange shapes were glimpsed moving about the palace and the Lansdowne Barracks. The police switchboards were deluged with calls or would have been if Mr. Lee’s people hadn’t gotten to them first.
Jimmy Kam, whose family had lost everything to Lady Green’s cronies; had been a natural recruit for the Chesterton Liberation Front, he’d taken to his new cause with a fanatic zeal and had been chosen for a special mission. Crouched in front of a delivery truck parked off the main palace gate he mentally prepared himself, subconsciously rotating his shoulders to ease the chafing of the suicide vest he wore.
Jimmy didn’t really think he’d get anywhere near Lady Green but somebody had to do something. In the back of his mind he wondered at the pounding of his heart. Rhythmic; like a heartbeat. But why was it getting louder? Suddenly Jimmy felt a presence behind him.
Turning his eyes upwards he reeled back in shock. Looming above him, masked by the city’s ambient noise and his own concentration, stood the raptor like form of a BattleMech. On one shin of its back canted hoofed leg the image of a buxom brunette in archaic military garb had been painted. It looked like she was winking at him.
His attention focused on the metal monster he never saw the stunner wielding form step out of an alleyway and put a pulse of concentrated sound into his head. The first form was met by six more and one pulled open Jimmy’s coat.
“Jesu Christos Loot; this moron was gonna blow hisself up!â€
The lean young man with a movie star’s face and the dull grey insignia of a Terran lieutenant cursed softly and he called for two of his men to disarm and take charge of their prisoner. Across the street the Palace’s main gate swung open and the Lieutenant watched as the black forms of a battalion of ‘Mechs marched into the Palace grounds.
Lieutenant Josh Harding signaled the rest of his men and with no further words a full heavy infantry company trooped in after the ‘Mechs.
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“Time to wakey wakey honey!â€
Deirdre Green woke with a start pulling her covers up over her nightgown clad body. A massive form in black armor stood over her. Four other forms their outlines obscured by color shifting fatigues that gave her stomach a twist.
“GUARDS!!!!†Lady Green screamed.
“Whoooeee, hell of a pair of lungs on her hey Mike?†The armored form laughed harshly. One of the others stepped out of the shadows the color shifting effect fading to reveal black combat armor and a heavy stunner-lasgun combo.
“Lady Green, your guards won’t be coming, now if you will kindly come with us?†The man, she was sure it was a man held out a silk robe to her. Calmly she took the robe from him, ignoring the others. Men she could handle all it took was one to notice her.
Whatever is going on here, all it will take is one…
Damn me, combat armor is no place for a hard on. Mike Kelso thought. But she is a hell of a looker, problem is she knows it. Waiting until she looked away he adjusted his armor over every male trooper’s favorite plaything. Didi’s armored form cocked her helmeted head at him and he shrugged. As the capture team walked their captive through the short walk to the throne room, the Lady Green glanced back at Mike with a smile that promised a hell of a lot.
Inwardly Mike sighed, in some ways these nobles acted like high school brats. This so called Lady Greene reminded him of the captain of the cheerleading team back home in Galveston. God what a bimbo she was.
Green stopped dead as they entered the throne room with its massive gothic arches and cathedral like windows. It wasn’t the platoon of heavily armed troopers in mimetic camouflaged armor, or the throng of her cronies clustered fearfully in the center of the room. Nor was it the BattleMechs visible through the cathedral styled windows.
It was the small group of people gathered on the raised platform bearing the Ducal Seat of the Chesterton Worlds. Bruce, standing next to the throne glowering down at the noblewoman dressed casually in jeans and his battered motorcycle jacket, looked as usual more like a pirate than one of the SLDF’s most decorated warriors. The enigmatic Mr. Lee, in an expensive New Avalon suit, beamed benignly at the assembly. But more importantly seated in the Seat, a seven foot snowy white Devil Cat purring contentedly at her feet, Sarah Davion in a black and red gown that echoed the Black Tiger’s dress uniform stared down regally at her rival.
“Sarah.†Deirdre Greene managed at last.
“Deirdre, it may have been a while, but I have returned….†Sarah’s eyes narrowed and she stood.
“…And I am not pleased.â€
It wasn’t until her son Sebastian stepped out from behind the Seat that Lady Deirdre Green fainted.
Mike was close enough to group that his armor’s augmented hearing picked up Bruce’s dry comment;
“Well that was anticlimactic.â€
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This is going to be good! ;D
Thanks for sharing BTA!
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So the Tiger's Lady has a Devil Cat :)
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Maybe I should have titled this A bunch of damn Yankee's in Prince John's Court. LOL
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I am lost ;D
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I am lost ;D
And thats different how? ;)
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And thats different how? ;)
???
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SLDF Convoy 312
Uninhabited System near the Hegemony Combine Border
15 June, 2784
Lisa Buhalin poured a shot of Jim Beam Black for Liz. The pair clinked their glasses and downed the alcohol. Shaking her head as the slug of hard liquor burned warmly in her belly she returned to the matter at hand.
“That’s not the point, Lee I’m beginning to think Scott was right…â€Shaking her head she thought of their last harsh words.
Lisa sighed and to a swig of her beer. Fixing her oldest friend with a glare she said simply… “Then why are you still here? You don’t believe in what we’re doing, yet you’re still here, you’ve mucked up things with Scott…I mean what the ******? Do you even know what the hell your doing?â€
Liz opened her mouth with a snarl and then closed it with a snap. Truth was she didn’t; leave it to Lee to see that. To top it off the General doesn’t trust me anymore, Lee won’t say it but its true…too many secrets kept. Damn I gotta talk to Aaron…
She rose a little too quickly and took a moment to clear her head. Lisa looked at her; puzzled. Liz reached down and hugged her friend then smiled sadly.
“Good-bye Lisa.â€
“Yeah…I’ll see you later…Ohh.†Lisa nodded understanding.
“Yeah.â€
An hour later a shuttle left the Star League convoy and headed for a Combine registered freighter departing for Terran space.
“You just let her go, you sentimental old fool!â€
Nicolas Kerensky rounded on Aaron DeChevalier in fury. Aaron’s face didn’t change as he stared the younger man. Truth he barely glanced at him, his attention focused on Aleksandr.
“Aleks, she was kept out of the loop she knows next to nothing.â€
“You don’t know that…she should have been silenced just in case!†Nicolas was like a terrier with a rat in its teeth, he just wouldn’t let it go.
An hour of this is enough…
“SHE KNEW NOTHING!†Aaron thundered startling both Nicolas and Lisa Buhalin who’d brought the report. “I was planning Operational Security procedures when you were still in diapers…boy.†He stared at the younger Kerensky until the other man backed down.
Aleksandr Kerensky impassive till now spoke up then;
“It doesn’t matter now, Nicolas, what Elizabeth knows or doesn’t know matters little…Amanda doesn’t care where we go and Minoru won’t interfere even if he did know what we planned.â€
He looked up at his officers and said, resignation in his voice;
“If Hazen wants to stay and burn with the rest of the Star League, so be it.â€
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So when did Sonny wipe the Royal's info from the databases?
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The Great Father is a bit harsh, no?
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So one of the Clan founders remained behind.
Niky seems not to be entirely on the tracks, alreaddy!
Aaron’s face didn’t change as he stared the younger man. Truth he barely glanced at him, his attention focused on Aleksandr.
This part reads a bit odd.
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Makes you wonder how Aaron REALLY died in that ambush...
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Four Days Later, SS Beulah Wood bound for Dieron…
Liz Hazen floated into the Tramp class JumpShip’s lounge thankful the majority of the Combine passengers had disembarked as the merchant vessel made its way towards the Hegemony. Kurita pop music was…bad. There was no other way to describe it. Shaking her head ruefully she sat at the counter.
A short stocky blond haired man was sitting next to her and as she ordered he looked up from the data feed on the console built into each place setting. Max Warner? Before she could say anything two others caught her eye. Samantha Reis and Jorge Carerra, all Blackhearts.
“Hello Liz.†Max, who’d dropped into the area around Unity City to be the first of Terra’s liberators to make contact with Hazen’s Ghosts the resistance group she’d led against the Usurper. “Kinda surprised to find you here, thought you were running away with the rest of Kerensky’s little cult.†His smile didn’t reach his eyes.
Keeping her voice calm she sipped her coffee.
“I changed my mind, Max I’m going home. What about you? Job?â€
Max grinned and toyed with the stirrer in his own cup.
“Yeah, something like that.â€
SLS Nueva Seville, Exodus Fleet
“Report!†Captain Kevin Brendon shouted over the blaring klaxon as he strode onto the bridge. His exec looked at a loss.
“Sir, we have a emergency evac warnings from the Venturer, Lake Michigan and Princeton Heights!â€
“Evac, what the hell?†Brendon turned as Lieutenant Josiah Collingswood; master of the Venturer stepped out of the access way.
“Jo talk to me!â€
“Unity! Sir we’ve got to jettison the droppers, the ‘mechs and fighters are…they’ve been sabotaged!â€
“Sabotage…†Brendon knew and trusted his DropShip commanders well and turned back to the launch ops station. “Devi do it emergency protocol one eleven…â€
The dark slender woman was already typing frantic commands into the system controlling the docking collars. Automated systems opened the clamps and engaged the DropShips’ thrusters boosting them away from the fragile needle that was the Nueva Seville.
“Sir every fusion powered vehicle from the 18th Royal Battle went into a fusion overload…the technicians couldn’t stop…†A flash of golden light came from the view port. That wasn’t one of our droppers, that came from the Sacramento!
Leo Maltin his executive officer looked up from the sensors horror on his face.
“Sir…the Sacramento...she’s gone, just gone.â€
It was then the detonation of the Nueva Seville’s own DropShips shook his crew around like ball bearings in a washing machine.
SLS James McKenna…
“The death toll?†Aleksandr Kerensky asked wearily.
“Over seven thousand.†Aaron DeChevalier said quietly.
“How?†Aleks looked up anger cutting through fatigue and the laughter only he could hear.
“A computer virus…very complex, piggybacking on our routine comms traffic it spread to every Royal command in the fleet. I wasn’t sure who at first but then an inquiry I’d made a week ago bore fruit too late.†He paused, his discovery on the heels of the mayhem the virus had unleashed was so damning he almost lied, so tempting to point Aleks at Minoru Kurita, but…
“Out with it.†Aleks’ eye’s were hooded.
“The Blackhearts…they’re all gone.â€
If Aaron could have heard it, the dead tyrant’s laughter would have had an ironic note.
“They’re all gone and this was their going away gift.†Aaron finished.
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I really love that going away gift! ;D
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A big FY! How rude!
Then again politeness is rather wasted on deserters, which is what at least the Royal command would be considered.
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You reap what you sow, i guess.
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That may so some change things for me. :-\
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Now I understand where the good bye gift of the 7th Kommando came. ;D
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That may so some change things for me. :-\
Not really, remember the exodus fleet is huge, the actual damage to the SLDF while great changes little. Aaron most likely convinces AK of the necessity of the op.
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Yup, and betcha the databases are all corrupt too...
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What about Silver Spear?
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What about Silver Spear?
That was the Op I was talking about, The Royals that left still have troops, there were a hell of a lot more than 7000 of them >:(, so the Spear can still go off, also Big K probably starts training his own SAS to make up for the Terran Blackhearts departure.
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Well don't forget that the SAS was just a part of Special Operations Command. There are other forces that might be expected to take their place so to speak. I just didn't envision such a hatred between the SLDFers and the Terrans. But you are weaving a fine story so don't let me stop you. ;D
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I just didn't envision such a hatred between the SLDFers and the Terrans. But you are weaving a fine story so don't let me stop you.
I could easy see it though. Not from the SLDF, initially - although being on the reciving end of enough hostility and now terror will change that, but certainly from the terrans. Particulary against any Royal formations, IMPO the exodus in canon SDBT have been way to friction less (or perhaps just not described yet). Not just desertion but more damaging hauling along millions of tons of useless, for the SLDF, military hardware that the TR desperately need not to mention some very symbolic warships completed recently in Terran yards should totally poison SLDF-Terran relations even with the TR authorities trying to calm things down.
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I got to say that is what is so great about our little group here. Alone I don't think I would have had such an incident but it does make for a more realistic story after you think about it. Would have been almost too clean or perfect the other way. Life is messy and this is a nice mess BTA created. ;D
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I can see it happening.
This departure wouldn't be the dignified parting of the ways (mostly) as when the Southern officers departed the US Army right before the Civil War- with parties and heartfelt farewells and the poignance of seeing an old friend across the battlefield.
This is after a loong bloody no-quarter war. Those staying behind to defend the Republic are going to be veerrryyyy angry at the deserters. Stealing the production lines, munitions, and equipment, not to mention the ships, WarShips, fighters, & 'Mech so desperately needed by the surrounded HAF... I'd have no problem either stealing some of it back or blowing it & them to kingdom come. The deserters aren't my brothers & sisters anymore.
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Yeah I guess that feeling is going to grow as the war progresses, not everyone is going to understand like Amanda did.
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I got to say that is what is so great about our little group here. Alone I don't think I would have had such an incident but it does make for a more realistic story after you think about it. Would have been almost too clean or perfect the other way. Life is messy and this is a nice mess BTA created. ;D
Messy is my middle name. ;D
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I thought it was Tiger actually. ;D
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Chapter Two: Working the System
Ricky was a young boy, He had a heart of stone.
Lived 9 to 5 and worked his fingers to the bone.
Just barely got out of school, came from the edge of town.
Fought like a switchblade so no one could take him down.
He had no money, oooh no good at home.
He walked the streets a soldier and he fought the world alone
18 and Life; Skid Row
The DeepDowns, Landing
Chesterton, Terran Hegemony
04 July, 2784
Sammie’s place was one of those dive bars you find all over the DeepDowns; Landing’s poorest district. On any Friday night the place was packed with local gangsters, slumming college kids and blue collar workers from the Wrench; the capitol’s industrial district. Sammie a retired Tong enforcer knew that his patrons were a volatile mix so while he didn’t discourage the occasional fight or two, weapons were no allowed, checked at the door with a pretty coat check girl backed up by two no necks with no sense of humor about such things.
And God help you if you waited outside on the street to hammer somebody after they left, the last guy who did was rumored to have ended up in Eda Mame’s dumplings…The slender young rake in the oversized leather jacket thought with a small smile.
Ricky Lo pulled a deep drag on his cigarette, glancing with overdone nonchalance at the dye job redhead sitting in the booth across from the pool table. He knew Paula McDonnell liked him, but he didn’t like his odds of navigating the gauntlet of her friends.
Have to get her alone later, he thought, at least she likes my flash, referring to the purple lock of hair that dangled down his forehead. That same lock of hair marked him as Jengali, in Chesterton-Capellan usage the word meant street scum. Paula and her half friends were from families that could trace their ancestry to the Capellan Barduc or Sword-Nobility that had ruled Chesterton when it had been a jewel in the crown of the Confederation(Although Ricky didn’t think the Confederation had a King but whatever.).
Still Paula and her friends slummed in the DeepDowns far away from their college dorms in the Heights for one simple reason; here the other half of their friends, mostly middle class Davy kids who went to similar schools could mingle and relax without creating a scandal. The political concerns made Ricky’s head spin.
“Hey Ricky, gimmie some fire; Tuan?†Norrie Cassias, Rick’s best friend and their gang’s second story man grinned at him.
After Ricky obliged him, Norrie slipped a slim packet into Rick’s leather jacket. Ricky nodded coolly, his cut from last night’s job, after the tong took its cut of course, should be…
“Seventeen for each of us, not bad for four hours work, hey?†Norrie’s grin was infectious and Rick seeing Paula catch it decided not to play it off, he winked. She blushed prettily and her friends as one glared daggers at him and turned to chatter their opinions. None of them good Ricky knew. He’d been dry too long; the Terrans brought in by the new Davy girl had cracked down hard on both the Tong and the old bitch’s cronies.
Nobody knew where they got their info but the District Attorney was making his shit stick. Seventeen hundred in D-bills (Not as good as dollars but less easy to track.) meant debts paid and maybe even a bit of pretty for Paula…if he could get past her friends. He was so caught up in his good fortune that he missed the entry of a dozen or so of those same Terrans.
Oh Shit…Ricky thought.
He didn’t see how the fight started, Vince and Su-Lin were both hot heads and they always hung out together near the front of Sammie’s. They were however his crew so with a look at Norrie the pair dived into the brawl. In the back of his mind he saw Sammie taking bets. The Terrans looked tough as hell, all of them wearing that Tiger chop somewhere on their persons, but they were outnumbered severely and well in any bar fight the out of towners were always singled out for a pounding.
Ricky and Norrie were holding their own back to back when a roughly handsome Asian man snapped Ricky’s hand out of the air and flipped him on his back. Looking up he saw the man wink at…Paula! Red filled his vision and he leapt up to charge at the man.
He never saw the punch that put him back on the ground.
“Jeez Mr. T, you know he’s gonna feel that through to next week.†Someone laughed.
“Bite me Lieutenant ‘Rat.†Ricky heard the other man say in badly accented Anglic just before he passed out.
Nine or so hours later he woke to Sammie placing a steaming mug of tea on the table next to the cot Ricky was lying on. He was in the bar’s back room, on an all too familiar cot. Sammie as usual had looked out for him. Steeling himself for the usual lecture about getting out of “The Life†Ricky was surprised when the big man handed him a small card that damn Tiger stared back at him.
“What’s this?†He asked sipping on his tea.
“A way out, Kid, you impressed somebody last night.†Sammie replied. He gave the younger man a telling look.
“Is this where you tell me this is my ticket out of the DeepDowns?â€
“Damn straight, boy, you’d be a fool not to. These Kitty Kats ain’t that Green bitch, even you can see that.â€
As he left Sammie paused and looked over his shoulder saying;
“You think about it Ricky, and when you’re done get your tools, we’ve got some carpentry to do.â€
Nodding and thinking about the earlier mayhem in the bar he readied himself for a full day’s work ahead.
Maybe, he’s right… Ricky thought as he rose to wash up.
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Lansdowne Barracks later that day.
I chuckled as ‘Rat cradled his head. He glowered at me but then began to laugh.
“Ahh geez; boss don’t make me laugh; I’m getting to old for this shit.â€
Mind you Scott Mackenzie’s only a couple years older than me which by Terran standards isn’t old at all, I remember a story from the twentieth or twenty-first century that described people in their forties and fifties as being middle aged, blew my mind, Terran medical technology being what it is a person could live a full and active life for over a hundred years or so, hell even Isokoru Satoh who used to be a Drac only looked about forty five or so and he was going on sixty!
If my eldest daughter’s biological father hadn’t been such an idiot…well some scientists were predicting by 2800 or so the average lifespan of someone in the Hegemony would have been upwards of twice what they are today. Instead it was dropping. Anyway back to the matter at hand. One of the most glaring problems in Landing and other cities on Chesterton had been crime spurred on by Lady Green’s mismanagement. Gang violence was considered more than a nuscence for the first time in over a century.
In Landing it was way worse. Granted these guys were nowhere near as bad as say some areas on Earth, where the gangs were fueled by people hardened by the Amaris occupation or say the Combine; where the Police don’t actually really investigate anything. Hell they didn’t even have guns for the most part. Still the Colonel suggested we look into it.
The SLDF and by former association the Tigers have a system, older than spaceflight for dealing with such things. It didn’t really have a name, but you get the troops out to meet the locals, curl their hair with tales from the war. Provoke the gangbangers, especially here where they ain’t armed with automatic weapons and rocket launchers.
Basically you show them what should be self evident…just how low they are on the food chain. With kid gloves of course, you don’t want them either terrified (too much, any way.) or despising you as a bunch of bullies. Just enough to get their attention, and get them thinking.
Mr. Lee’s contacts were proving very useful here. Granted, my gut said he was either Maskirovka (The Cappies state security agency.) or affiliated with the Tongs, or most likely; both. But Hell, you use the tools you got on hand.
Besides, I kinda liked the old pirate…
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Bah, Rat'll be feeling better when Lizzie finds him ;)
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;D
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Hate? They are leaving the people they should protect.
How would you react?
And to deal with the gangs, you beat them and recruit the best?
It reminds me of another game (a cookie for anyone who gets the reference ;D).
-
Chesterton is a Hegemony world?
IIRC it was a FS world despite CC efforts.
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It still is a FS world. The Tigers have been released from Hegemony service and are now working directly for the First Prince. Sarah Davion is the ruler of Chesterson and is returning to take up residence.
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It still is a FS world. The Tigers have been released from Hegemony service and are now working directly for the First Prince. Sarah Davion is the ruler of Chesterson and is returning to take up residence.
And, man, did she make an enterance when she got home.
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So no one is up for a cookie?
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As usual, I am clueless on that reference... ??? :-[
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So no one is up for a cookie?
Owwww, You're making me think, makes the brain hurt.
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So no one is up for a cookie?
Shadow Run ?, if I'm right chocolate Cookie Please.
Dave
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As usual, I am clueless on that reference... ??? :-[
:-\
Owwww, You're making me think, makes the brain hurt.
;D
Shadow Run ?
No.
Let's say that the process I am describing is not restricted to gangs but is also used with ... and ... and ...
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Later…
“There have been a shitload of complaints from civilians in the DeepDowns and the Low End, Colonel.†The tall heavy set man in the oh so stereotypical trench coat and cheap suit of a detective was saying as I walked in. I stifled a chuckle; this guy should meet Leo Devalis sometime.
“Well Magistrate O’Connor if you have questions about how the Training Battalion is being run; here is the man in charge.†Sam Winters pointed me out. The Chief of Police for Landing turned to look at me with appraising but tired eyes. Before I could speak he chuckled.
“So you’re the one who’s got the pipers playing at all hours of the morning, picking fights with every gangbanger they can find?†He asked a hint of a grin on his face. “Been a while since I’ve seen System D in action.â€
I chuckled myself; if he knew the term…
“What unit?†I asked.
“The 83rd Infantry Division, a long, long time ago.â€
“So how’s the crime rate in the Downs?†I asked.
“Oh, hell you wouldn’t have asked if you didn’t all ready know.†He shrugged. “Way the hell down, son your merry little elves are sweeping the streets clean…but you’re makin’ some folks nervous.â€
“I’ll see what I can do about the pipers, but System D in general?†I paused and he grinned nodding.
“That’s all I ask, Major.†O’Connor turned to Sam and nodded his leave.
The man himself looked up at me and grinned.
“Well…?â€
“It’s working, boss, and try Training Regiment, mostly infantry but I’ve got some good prospects for the ‘Mech’s, in three months they’ll be ready for some low intensity field work.†I smiled with pride, Truk, Johnny Zazula and Scott were working them like little bitches and despite that the dropout rate was damned low.
“How are you fixed for equipment?†Alex asked from his seat in the office’s lone couch.
I shrugged. “Not so bad but not so good either. Plenty of basic infantry gear but little in the way of heavy weapons, mostly fifty year old Davvy hand me downs, comm systems are good though; AFFS standards…transport and a few AFV’s from the Chesterton Dragoons, they think we’re cute.†I growled that last, but I was getting tired of General Makepeace’s condescending attitude towards my collection of riff raff, pirates and Capellan scum; as he put it.
I looked up then with a smile; “The First Prince sent us two bonuses though…didn’t expect either. It seems he’s routing some of the SLDF troopers he’s been recruiting to me, some kind of special project…†My mind drifted back to the conversation I’d had with our new liege during our trip…. I didn’t like keeping things from Sam and Alex, but my orders were for the Baron Gilmour, not the Major Gilmour if OPERATION CRUCIS were to bear fruit it had to be kept quiet.
“B?†Al looked at me curiously. I shook myself and grinned sheepishly. “Sorry guys playing fast and loose with the photon budget.â€
Sam snorted; “I know that feeling, welcome to the club…so what was the second thing?â€
“A battalion of medium and light ‘Mechs mostly Phoenix Hawk-D’s, Shad’s and Wasps all old school but still, better than what the Dragoons handed off on us.†I’d said it off hand, but the look of shock on their faces was comical.
“How many from the Force?†Sam asked carefully as I poured myself a cup of coffee.
“Nineteen ‘Mech jocks, and almost two hundred techs, armor crews and infantry troopers, more importantly a large percentage of them are experienced noncoms.â€
Sam smiled sadly then… “So when are you leaving the Tigers?â€
I sputtered out the mouthful of hot java, burning my tongue.
Huh? Years later Sam and I would chuckle about this day, as Sarah said I really am clueless.
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NO! Bruce can't leave the Tigers! Sarah can handle all the ruling stuff on her own! ;D Who's going to lead the company?
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You are... step up!
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LOL ;D
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No winner for the cookie.
And I like the training regiment for these people.
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Quck and dirty TOE
Chesterton Training Battalion (Regiment)
15 July 2784
Note All ranks are given as AFFS most officers are Terran or exSLDF
Headquarters Section
Major Bruce Gilmour Elite MAD-3SLRG Marauder
Captain Xu Li Cheng Veteran SHD-2H Shadow Hawk
Arthur Kowalski Veteran MAD-3SLRG Marauder
Eleanor Soldano Regular BMB-12SLRG Bombardier
Major Pete Callahan Elite Command Van
Leftenant Mike Kelso Elite SAS Team
4xRipper VTOL
1xMASH unit
Various trucks and other prime movers
Artillery Section
Captain Ming Lee Regular 18xThumper
6xSniper
Scout Section
Captain Truk Tranh Elite Foot Infantry (Varies) Platoon
4xRipper VTOL
Captain Nerva Ramos Elite MON-66b Mongoose
Leftenant Erika D’anzio Regular PXH-1D Phoenix Hawk
Daniel St.Croix Veteran TLN-8Z Talon
Vincent Delgado Veteran TLN-8Z Talon
Leftenant Joshua Poulson 6x Pegasus Light Hover Tank
1st Battalion (‘Mech)
Battalion Command Lance
Captain Gracie Liu Elite MAD-3SLRG Marauder
Leftenant George DePalma Elite PXH-1D Phoenix Hawk
1st Company (Attack) Green
Leftenant Samuel Muy Regular CN-9A Centurion
5xCN-9A Centurion, 6xTBT-5N Trebuchet
2nd Company (Strike) Regular
Leftenant Jerry King Elite PXH-1D Phoenix Hawk
5xPXH-1D Phoenix Hawk, 6xWSP-1D Wasp
3rd Company (Strike) Green
Leftenant Tracy Hillary Veteran PXH-1D Phoenix Hawk
5xPXH-1D Phoenix Hawk, 6xWSP-1D Wasp
4th Company (Attack) Regular
Captain Scott Mackenzie Elite BMB-12SLRG Bombardier
Leftenant Jenna Thompson Veteran SHD-2H Shadow Hawk
11x SHD-2H Shadow Hawk
2nd Battalion (Infantry) Mechanized
Captain Rachel Vinson Veteran Foot Infantry Platoon (Rifle)
4xWheeled APC
5th Company (Mechanized) Regular
Leftenant Kevin Llewellyn Veteran Foot Infantry Platoon (SRM)
3xFoot Infantry Platoon (MG), 16xWheeled APC, 4x Mortar Carriers
6th Company (Mechanized) Green
Leftenant Amy McGillis Veteran Foot Infantry Platoon (SRM)
3xFoot Infantry Platoon (MG), 16xWheeled APC, 4x Mortar Carriers
7th Company (Mechanized) Regular
Captain Mark Vanderhoven Veteran Foot Infantry Platoon (SRM)
3xFoot Infantry Platoon (MG), 16xWheeled APC, 4x Mortar Carriers
8th Company (Armor) Regular
Leftenant Evan Rosenberg Elite Vedette Light Tank
11x Vedette Light Tank
3rd Battalion (Infantry) Mechanized
Captain Rod Singh Elite Foot Infantry Platoon (Rifle)
4xWheeled APC
9th Company (Mechanized) Regular
Leftenant Dana Munoz Veteran Foot Infantry Platoon (SRM)
3xFoot Infantry Platoon (MG), 16xWheeled APC, 4x Mortar Carriers
10th Company (Mechanized) Green
Leftenant Jenny Nakagama Veteran Foot Infantry Platoon (SRM)
3xFoot Infantry Platoon (MG), 16xWheeled APC, 4x Mortar Carriers
11th Company (Mechanized) Green
Captain Mark Vanderhoven Veteran Foot Infantry Platoon (SRM)
3xFoot Infantry Platoon (MG), 16xWheeled APC, 4x Mortar Carriers
12th Company (Armor) Regular
Leftenant Kenneth Deville Elite Vedette Light Tank
11x Vedette Light Tank
4th Battalion (Infantry/Support)
Major John Zazula Elite Combat Engineer Platoon
Captain Nathan Coe Regular Combat Engineer Platoon
8xWheeled APC, 8xEngineer Vehicles 8xBridging Vehicles
13th Company (SAS) Regular
Captain Didi Moran Elite SAS team
1xRipper VTOL
3xJump Infantry Platoons (Varies), 1xFoot Infantry Platoon (Varies)
13xKarnov VTOL
15th Company (Gunship) Green
Leftenant Kelly Burnham Veteran Longbow VTOL (Use Warrior replace all weapons with LRM-15+3 Tons ammo)
-
Nice TO&E BTA, two small things though:-
The Centurion doesn't enter production on Raman II until 2801 and the Trebuchet-5N is only entering production at this time from factories in the Free Worlds League, the SLDF would have had access too the -5B, not sure if the AFFS would have had any.
If these were supplied by the AFFS i'd recomend replacing them with the Enforcer and Dervish.
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Nice TO&E BTA, two small things though:-
The Centurion doesn't enter production on Raman II until 2801 and the Trebuchet-5N is only entering production at this time from factories in the Free Worlds League, the SLDF would have had access too the -5B, not sure if the AFFS would have had any.
If these were supplied by the AFFS i'd recomend replacing them with the Enforcer and Dervish.
Crap, good catch unfortunately no Enforcers either...not invented yet either...will fix later.
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Thanks for posting the new TO&E. I have a "few" questions. ;)
There are 4 Battalions here, isn't that a Regiment? Why wasn't Bruce promoted to Colonel or Lt. Colonel? Isn't that the typical rank for a Regimental Leader? This leads to the Battalion commanders and so on; shouldn't they also be one rank higher?
What do you envision the cultural makeup of Chesterton to be? I've looked in the sourcebooks and there isn't much beyond a general terrain description.
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Nice TO&E BTA, two small things though:-
The Centurion doesn't enter production on Raman II until 2801 and the Trebuchet-5N is only entering production at this time from factories in the Free Worlds League, the SLDF would have had access too the -5B, not sure if the AFFS would have had any.
If these were supplied by the AFFS i'd recomend replacing them with the Enforcer and Dervish.
Crap, good catch unfortunately no Enforcers either...not invented yet either...will fix later.
Not near my books at the moment but i think the Enforcer entered service with the AFFS in 2777. I'll double check later too be sure though.
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"Since it first walked off of the production line in 2777, the Enforcer has been iconic of the Federated Suns."
There are 4 Battalions here, isn't that a Regiment? Why wasn't Bruce promoted to Colonel or Lt. Colonel? Isn't that the typical rank for a Regimental Leader? This leads to the Battalion commanders and so on; shouldn't they also be one rank higher?
Not necessarily for a training unit.
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Thanks Ice :)
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It is a regiment as Bruce points out to Sam during thier conversation, B's actually freaking out a little. This is the largest group of people he's ever been responsible for and I think by now we know he's quite a bit out of his league. He really needs a tour at NAMA or Warrior's Hall's staff college. However with 'Rat handling supply and logistics, Gracie as his Exec and Erika in the Ops postion he should be okay.
As to Chesterton's make up by now it's about 40% Cappellan regional 30% standard Davy Franco-English and 30% Terran Western Alliance (roughly) one of the reasons I selected the Chesterton worlds was that you have a richly diverse population with little written about it. Fertile ground indeed! The original story actually had it was Christina Stiener that Bruce rescued and a lot of action took place in the Isle of Skye (love that name!). But Chesterton gave me more room to play.
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Aw Bruce & Chrissie- so much potential for misunderstandings...
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and a love of large mechs. ::)
-
Lansdowne Barracks, Landing
Chesterton, Federated Suns
11 November, 2784
Alex Winter looked up as Bruce collapsed in the seat next to him. The pair was among the first of the 90th’s command staff to arrive in the main conference room. Sipping at their coffee they waited quietly for Alex’s father and the rest of the command staff to arrive.
B looks exhausted, CJ said Sarah’s worried, he’s pushing real hard.
“Heard you handed the Dragoons a rough ride.†Alex said.
Bruce shrugged and grunted.
“They got arrogant, still think we’re some gang of street toughs,†He laughed, “Of course we are sort of…†the Gunslinger trailed off. “Well not anymore, we’ve rocked the Dragoons two out of five, their troops talk to us now, not so much the staff officers, but the line troops…I think we’re having an effect.â€
“Hopefully it will be enough.†said the short dark man in the doorway. His suit was an Armani retro influenced by the 1940’s currently the height of style in the Hegemony. He stepped over to the side table and poured a cup of coffee.
“Hmm good stuff, you must be Samuel’s boys; he’s very proud of you.†His accent was pure New York with a slight Spanish accent. Dominican maybe Alex thought.
“And you are?†Bruce asked amused.
“Dr. Alberto Suarez, at your service,†Suarez gave a seated bow, “Planetologist and political scientist, Department of Communications.â€
“Hey ‘Berto how goes it?†Sam asked as he entered taking his seat at the head of the table. Christian, Justine and John Zazula filed in followed by a tall willowy blonde woman with emerald green eyes in the uniform of an AFFS officer.
“Erika?†Bruce looked surprised.
“Major.†The woman nodded cordially.
“Major Gilmour of course you know Leftenant D’anzio or rather Special Agent Erica Tomlinson; CIB.†Dr. Suarez drawled sharing a grin with Sam.
Bruce’s eyes narrowed. “Terra planted a spook in my unit.†He stated flatly. “As the recruit most likely to command my scout ‘Mechs, lovely.â€
Every Tiger in the room stiffened at Bruce’s tone, the Gunslinger was most dangerous when he was calm and cool. Erika obviously knew that because she blanched.
“Easy, Bruce.†Sam said. There was no force to his voice, just a quiet tone of command. Like a switch was thrown the slender Major leaned back and smiled.
“Agent Tomlinson was placed here to monitor our mission,†Dr. Suarez recovered smoothly. “As you might have guessed she is an exceptional ‘Mech pilot and scout which puts her in a great place to observe and report.†He fixed Bruce with a hawkish glare. “Things are beginning to get real Major Gilmour and you need to be on the ball.â€
Suarez rose and brought up a holo screen.
“In short people we may be looking at the end of civilization.â€
-
Luckily for her, Bruce only shoots first in certain situations...
-
“In short people we may be looking at the end of civilization.â€
Good que for someone to pull out TA2785, Eh?
-
Doom Day is upon us :D
-
Judgment Day... Doomsday... just another Apocalypse...
Its so easy to become blase....
-
Judgment Day... Doomsday... just another Apocalypse...
Its so easy to become blase....
Come on.
Cheer a little. ;D
-
Chapter 3: The Weight of Reality
Feels like the weight of the world,
Like God in heaven gave me a turn.
Don't cling to me; I swear I can't fix you.
Still in the dark, can you fix me?
Evanescence, Weight of the World
Well the man certainly knows how to get your attention. I thought. Sam looked like he expected the statement and oddly neither did Erika. I looked at the projections hanging in mid air as an uproar broke out. My own training as both a scout and an interest in history that every one of my mentors has encouraged over the years led me to look for patterns. Flows of cause and effect if you will that stand out.
And there they were. In the worst possible places.
“With the dissolution of the Star League, naturally everyone is expecting at least some conflict.†Dr. Suarez was explaining. “What not even the most pessimistic of viewpoints realizes just how bad it is going to get. Or how soon, General Kerensky’s desertion has acted like an accelerant , CIB’s best estimate is that within three to five years the Inner Sphere will be locked in a war that will make all previous wars look like schoolyard spats.â€
“Most likely we will see either the Draconis Combine or the Free Worlds League as the flashpoint as both Kenyon Marik and Minoru Kurita have been increasingly aggressive with their neighbors. From there it will spread like wildfire. Both nations seem to be operating under a very dangerous fallacy.â€
As he paused, Suarez manipulated the console in front of him. A map of known human space appeared.
“The false assumption they are working under is that total victory is possible.†On the screen the red of the Combine flowed out to envelope the whole of Human Space. “The reasons Total Victory is impossible are many but the most glaring fault is this no one state has the resources to conquer then occupy another while at the same time defending against its neighbors.†On the screen the Combine attempted the same conquest once again only to have Terra, the Federated Suns and the Lyran Commonwealth hammer them back. At the same time the Capellans and the Free Worlds League launched their own attacks, preventing any one state from gaining supremacy.
“While some worlds will naturally change hands and be kept imagine the case of an industrial world like Chesterton or Kathil, hundreds of millions if not billions of people to indoctrinate, police, to rule. The entirety of the AFFS for example would barely be able to take and hold Luthien or Sian for the length of time necessary to turn either world into a nominally loyal possession.â€
Sipping at his coffee for a moment the short swarthy man shook his head.
“No my friends, they will tell themselves that fueled by the riches of the newly conquered territories they will be able to sustain their wars. Again we come to another flaw. Those conquered territories will take years to become productive again. Based on both CIB and DMI estimates at the very least initially both Combine and Capellan strategies also include the destruction of enemy war materials factories, ship yards and so forth.â€
And of course we will retaliate in kind, and…
“These strategies will rapidly spiral out of control as the wars continue and the definition of War Materials is expanded to include the opposition’s entire infrastructure as has happened time and time again. Use of weapons of mass destruction will most likely be employed against heavily defended worlds and the destruction unleashed will render most of the important worlds little more than pyrrhic trophies.â€
Across the map major industrial worlds died in all six of the major powers. Just as importantly lines of trade between worlds flickered out.
“As the conflict continues we come to the final death blow. Trade dies. Ask yourselves what is the mortar that keeps any civilization together? Education, close, community not a bad answer, but what make all these things possible?â€
We all nodded like school children the amusement at the sight fading quickly.
“As trade dies, so do we. As losses to naval shipping mount, the merchant fleets will be pressed into service. This will mean less consumer goods, food, and medicine to get to the civilian populations. Replacement parts for water purification plants and terraforming plants will be delayed or never arrive. Famine, disease and social collapse will soon follow.â€
“And there you have it.†Sam said.
-
I don't think the loss of shipping would be quite that obvious just yet.
PS:
The MIIO was created by Paul Davion during his reformation some 15 years into the future from this point in the story.
-
Good forecast.
Can he predict the winning numbers in next week Lotto? ;)
-
What we really need is Senator Bronson to replace the Camerons...
-
Gods now that would suck....
-
Not for him...
But Kerensky is no Lermontov...
-
Late that night when I returned home the first thing I did was look in on my children. Paul and Rhiannon not even four were deep asleep. When I reached out to stroke a hair out Rhi’s face she reached out and gently clasped my finger. A quiet motion caught my attention and I turned slightly. Synthia stood in the doorway, her luminous eyes gleaming in the dark. At the foot of the bed Xiang, Sarah’s Devil Cat raised its great furry head briefly then went back to sleep, purring contentedly.
My adopted daughter, all of eleven years old gave me a look that said; “What’s wrong?†Adjusting her oversized “Property of West Point†T-shirt she came over.
My answering look said simply; The usual, what else…
But thoughts of New Home, when the Rim Worlds Republic Navy had gained a brief window of space superiority ran through my head. Fire had rained from the skies. Thousands had died.
This was going to be worse? And Syn’s serious about becoming a ‘MechJock in three years she’ll be an apprentice.
Syn came over and hugged me whispering; “It’ll be okay daddy.â€
That was how Sarah found us a little while later.
-
I just want to remark again on how great the whole Black Tiger Saga is. I really can't imagine BTSD without it now. Great work BTA - looking forward to more. ;)
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Thanks T, BTW forgot to post this part here, Takiro knows what unit thier with, but I forgot as it was in our PMs from the old sight (Hint, hint)
HAF Base Fort Lewis
North American Administrative District
Terra, Terran Hegemony
10 January, 2785
Kailey, my love;
Well your brothers have graduated and are now ‘MechWarriors, no doubt they have written you with tales of the glory they’ll reap. Don’t worry; I’ve managed to get myself posted to their unit. My prior service has awarded me the rank of Captain and the position of Battalion XO. Our unit is being shipped out to fill out a newly forming unit on the Free Worlds border.
That’s the bad news, Baby; it’s a hell of a long way away. We talked about this, but so did Sol and I. We are scheduled to ship out on February seventh; we should know our final destination before then.
I’ve got to go now, loads of paperwork to do, but if you need me just post on Yelp or text me. God I miss you.
Love;
Hank
-
Talithan Borderers?
-
Hank leaned back in his chair. Looking around his sparse office he exhaled sharply. A week of sixteen hour days getting the 312th Provisional Battalion together with no end in sight, you took what time you could to write your wife. He’d have preferred to call but the 312th was under operational silence, and Hank knew his mail was being vetted by Hegemony er Republic Military Intelligence.
New name, and Terrans ain’t the same old crew, we did that, Hank thought, all for the Glory of a dead House.
Hank was sure the five other Houses didn’t understand the change that had come over the Terran state and its people. They were harder now, and Hank almost felt sorry for the morons who based on Terran intel were only a couple of years away from testing that new resolve.
Almost.
Still they were going to try. Kenyon Marik was becoming increasingly more aggressive. Barbara Liao’s Capellan Confederation while not being aggressive had undergone a massive build up of men and machines. And while the Lyrans and the Federated Suns were still friendly the Dragon was…quiet. That last bit disturbed Hank the most.
A storm was coming, and Hank knew he’d be in the middle of it.
…naturally you will retain your Terran rank, but I think it prudent for you to accept a commission in the AFFS. The Chesterton Training Regiment will be entered into the lists of Front Line Formations in mid February as the 4th Crucis Lancers and having a mercenary officer in charge…
Yada, Yada, Yada…okay Uncle John I get it already. I thought as I brought the attached documents up in the air in front of me and signed on the bottom line with a flourish. John Davion had cc the message to Sarah, Sam Winters and General Makepeace and both had sent replies to me. Oddly enough General Makepeace’s had been pleasant for once.
John was right, in the Chesterton Dragoons’ commander’s objections to us was based on my status as a mercenary not any real problem with me personally.
I sighed; just like that I was no longer a Tiger. Well not really, unbeknownst to the good General I still held a commission in the Terran…Republic (Amanda’s reorganization of the Terran State had taken everyone by surprise.) as a Major. But to all intents and purposes…I turned to the uniforms on their hangers in my office’s small closet. Sarah had sent them to me that morning.
I took the duty uniform with the rank tabs of an AFFS Colonel off its hanger and changed.
Scott Mackenzie did a double take as his superior officer and friend walked into the conference room. It took a minute for his mind to grasp what he was seeing.
“So do the Davion’s celebrate Halloween early or is this a joke.†He quipped.
“Neither, Scott Sam saw this coming, and I’ve got a question for you Major.†Bruce held out a PADD.
“Major? But I’ve only got the one…†Scott stopped.
“You’ll have the makings of two more companies soon a mix of Ostsols and Griffins.†Scott hesitated looking over the document on the PADD. Citizenship in the Federated Suns, AFFS commission as a Major…Title of Landed Knight?!
A chuckle made him look up. Scott’s puzzlement must have been evident.
“Yeah, John’s been pretty generous…but that brings us to what’s really going on.†His friend’s eye twinkled. “But I can only tell you if you’re in…â€
Sound’s great but…well…I thought we’d be going home. Scott shook his head as if to clear it. Then again I thought Liz and I would make a life together.
“You don’t have to tell me now…†Bruce started. With a quick scrawl Scott signed and hit submit on the PADD and handed it back. “…Okaaay.†Flipping his braid over his back he stood and extended his hand.
As Scott shook it Bruce smiled; “Welcome to the 4th Crucis Lancers Major Mackenzie.â€
Sam looked at his son with a wry expression on his face.
“So how many did Bruce poach?†He asked.
“Most of his company, Gracie’s gonna have her hands full…â€
“Gracie’s staying?†Alex nodded to answer his dad’s question.
“Bruce passed his recommendation that she succeed him as Regimental Gunslinger.â€
Sam nodded, “Done, we’ll have to have the ceremony.†Alex grinned. There would be a night to remember.
“I’ll set it up; Truk’s gone too, as well as Didi’s team…†Sam looked up in surprise. ‘Yeah, it shocked the hell out of me to, but y’know how tight they are. Anyway Josh Harding’s completed his training and he works well with his team, but John Zazula’s pretty annoyed, Captain Singh and most of his company accepted the Davvy terms.â€
“And you?â€
“He didn’t ask.†Sam heard a tone in his son’s voice.
“I know, I asked him not to…†Alex looked up in surprise. “He told me he didn’t think you’d bite but he was going to ask you anyway.â€
“But then why?†Alex asked puzzled.
“I’m not getting any younger, Al somebody’s going to have to run the Tigers and that’s you. Oh Chris or Justine could do it, but neither of them wants the job and Isokoru is looking to retire soon too, say five or six years, looks like he’s going to run our training operations here.†He stared off into space while Alex digested the information.
“Our and John Davion’s anyway. But that’s the mission.â€
“Davvy intel’s on our case about the ‘Kaze and their dependents again. I though Prince John had put a stop to that.†Alex said annoyance flashing across his face.
“I spoke to Sarah about that, one of Lady Green’s former lovers is making trouble, she’s going to get him reassigned. They’ve settled in well though.â€
The Tiger’s Combine expats had formed a unique community that had infected the regiment as a whole. With a death toll on Earth topping a billion, Sam’s troopers had returned to a bittersweet homecoming. As a result, family had an importance that was almost religious.
Now drop in several dozen families whose fortunes great or small had been wiped out at the stroke of a pen. They formed a core around which other newer families clung to. Combine traditions of courtesy, honor and community, mixed with both Terran ones and the multicultural whorl of Chesterton.
Something new was developing that Sam couldn’t quantify, except for a general feeling of strength, and vibrant life. Alex and C.J. had already entrenched themselves firmly in this new culture. Sam and Samantha…the thought of the Regiment’s Chief Medical Officer brought him up short.
“At any rate, Bruce has a strong core of Terran troops for his little experiment, and we’re not any weaker, the Regent has sent us a contingent of recruits looking for some adventure.â€
Alex gave his father a sour grimace. Adventure…yeah right. Sam stood up then and checked his uniform in the polish of his desk.
“I’ve got dinner with Samantha in a few so…?â€
“Have fun Dad…and don’t stay out to late.†Alex grinned at his father’s glower.
Changes had come to the Tigers, some military in nature…some not.
“Oh by the way,†Sam said with an evil smile, “Speaking of the Regent; the FedSuns’ Diplomatic service just contacted me They’re coming here.â€
“Who?†Alex asked.
“Ian and Amanda Sinclair and their entourage and a battalion of Fusiliers.â€
“What!†Alex sat back down in his chair like a shot.
“Along with John Davion and a like group, some diplomatic conference, plus Amanda wants to see her little buddy the Duchess. You’ll need to set up the security arrangements and liaise with General McCormack when she arrives with the advance detail.â€
“Shouldn’t Bruce’s gang be…â€
Sam snorted, “Not likely, they’re way to rough and the Duchess wants us with the Dragoons running exercises across the other worlds in our little empire here, we’ve got priority.â€
“Great.†Alex said glumly.
“Suck it up Alex it’s all part of the job.â€
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Wow, Scott's an AFFS Major now... :o Guess Bruce's "Company" isn't going back to Terra anytime soon.
Wonder how they'll manage the upkeep and replacement of their Terran Royal 'Mechs.
Good to see you back and posting again, BTA. ;D
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Poor Scott- all that extra responsibility...
Who wants to be a major anyway? ;)
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Not me.
I want to be warlord and/or world master. ;)
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After I read BTA's latest chapter, I wrote this. I've been writing little bits here and there for the Tigers for a while but haven't posted them as the story line has moved faster than I. Let me know what you all think - end it now or keep writing. ;)
Lansdowne Barracks, Landing
Chesterton, Federated Suns
13 January, 2785
As I shook his hand Bruce smiled; “Welcome to the 4th Crucis Lancers Major Mackenzie.â€
Once Bruce left I sat there alone in the conference room, pondering what I had just done. Looking at the orders that were just transferred to my PADD I couldn't shake the feeling that I had just sold my soul to the devil. I shoved that thought aside. I trusted B, if he believed it was the right choice, then it was. It would all work out in the end; of that I tried to convince myself. More immediately, I was a damned Major now. Hell, I was just getting used to being a Captain. Was it really just 5 years ago that I was sitting in that Hong Kong hotel holding my brand-new Lieutenant's bar and missing Liz half a world away? That provoked a sore subject. Liz. I wonder where she is now? To hell with her; she made her choice in leaving me and deserting Terra and I’ve got a job to do here.
The fact that I was now nobility – a Landed Knight of the Realm – bothered me. Just like B to spread the joy now that he was a Duke. Like most Terrans, I could care less about nobility; that was for the Colonials to worry about. More to the point, I was just a common, ordinary soldier. Well, maybe not “ordinaryâ€, but I was certainly a commoner in the eyes of the status-conscious peerage of the Federated Suns. In their eyes I would never be their equal. Hell, Sarah Davion, niece of Prince John Davion, Duchess of Chesterton, and the wife of my best friend was just “Sarah†to me. Then I wondered where my new “lands†were and who was living there. Except for commanding those under me, I had no idea how to rule people. Hopefully Sarah could give me a few pointers, ‘cause I’m sure Bruce has no idea.
I headed back to my makeshift office to get started on my new job. It would take time to go through my “recruits†to find the ones suitable for Company and Lance command. One of the first things I had to do was submit the paperwork to get Jenna Thompson, my current XO and fellow Tiger, transferred and promoted to Captain. She’d been my rock-solid second-in-command ever since I became a Lieutenant and there was no way I was going to give her up. Then there were the ‘Mechs. I know “Uncle†John was being generous, but having worked with Royal models for so many years, it was hard to adjust to the low-tech Colonial ‘Mechs assigned to my new unit. ShadowHawks, Griffins, and Ostsols, oh my! I chuckled at that thought. At least Boom-Boom would be able to keep up with them. I’d have to remember to ask B how we’re going to get replacement parts for her.
The basics completed, I headed over to the ‘Mech bays. I needed some “alone time†to get a grasp on all that just happened. Boom-Boom’s cockpit was as much a home as anywhere else and the place I felt most comfortable. Passing through the common area of the base, I saw Dido Moran coming my way. Her face held a confused expression that I was certain mirrored my own.
When she was close enough, she called out, “Hey, Rat. Good day for a stroll, huh?â€
I smiled and said, “That’s Major Rat to you, DiDi.â€
The realization of what I had said took a moment to filter through her mind. She replied with, “You too? Good. I was certain B wouldn’t leave you out.â€
“When did he talk to you?â€
“A few minutes ago.†She shook her head gently. “I’m still trying to get a grip on what just happened.â€
I laughed softly. “Yeah, me too. Kinda feel like you’ve sold your soul and abandoned family?â€
“Something like that.â€
“Well,†I said, looking her in the eyes, “B’s never led us wrong before. We have to trust that he’s making the right call on this one too.â€
A wan smile formed on DiDi’s face. “I hear ya.â€
We each went our separate ways and soon I was standing in front of my most prized possession, my beloved Bombardier, Boom-Boom. My eyes lingered over the art I had painted on her lower left leg. When I first received the Bombardier back in ’78 after the Battle of Chicago, I painted a buxom blonde in tight-fitting fatigues holding a missile pack on each shoulder. Shortly after I had met Liz Hazen I had re-painted it to look like a slightly less buxom redhead with slightly looser clothing. I told myself that way it would always seem like she was there with me. Nobody in the unit believed me, except for Liz. Damn, why do my thoughts always turn to her! She’s gone – for good - and I’ve gotta come to terms with it. I should probably re-paint the leg art soon. Maybe I’ll go with black hair this time.
I jumped into the lift and habitually did a visual survey of my ‘Mech. The flat black paint with red claw marks on the shoulders still looked mint. A sadness passed over me when I realized that new colors were coming soon. I hoped that B would let me keep the leg art. I climbed into the cockpit and sat in the jump seat behind the linear frame that controlled the ‘Mech. The linear frame, while ideal for maneuvering the ‘Mech was not well-suited for comfortably relaxing. Then again, neither is the jump seat, but at least there I’m sitting down. I powered up Boom-Boom’s systems to idle and enjoyed the quiet. I must have sat there for a couple of hours, reminiscing over all that had happened since I joined the Tigers back in ’72. My thoughts came to an end when I realized that I wasn’t heading back home to Terra anytime soon. I’m no longer part of the SLDF, no longer a Tiger, but I am a soldier and soldiers adapt and move on. Chesterton is my home now and I’ll make the most of it while I’m here.
I felt strength and a sense of purpose come back into me as I said to myself, “The 4th Crucis Lancers may not be the Tigers, but when I’m done, my Battalion is certainly going to be just like them. Davvy propriety be damned.â€
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Nice one Rat, i for one like it. ;D
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Great POV story! Can't wait to see the 4th go all Tiger on the foes!
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As I said over at classic; nicely done. Welcome to the war. ;D
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Thanks, BTA! I sent you a PM over at CBT. I hope to continue with this. 8)
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Only thing I have to say is it is probably too early for the 4th Crucis Lancers. I'll try to consult with Irose.
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I exchanged a brief message with BTA and I feel the same. We're both going to do some research into this. Any info you can give either one of us as to the future in SD timeline would help.
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Well looking at what we have for so far for the Crucis Lancers (Threat Assessments 2785 which is set in August of that year) only two units are combat worthy according to the report. It also goes on about future formations of this unit so perhaps a 4th could be developing currently. A special note about their inactive status as well as other hints on future development might be in order as each Lancer drew forces from a particular regional command.
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If the AFFS reports like the US Army, if the Regiment as a whole isn't combat ready, then theres no mention of subordinate units being ready...
so BTA & 'Rat may have a battalion ready but the Regiment is still downchecked as being "forming" or "in-training".
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Okay guys I talked to Irose and there is a small reference to new Lancer commands forming up. The Fourth would eventually be the Point Barrow Lancers but January 2785 they would be an embryo at best. Perhaps SLDF veterans who will serve as the nucleus of the 4th is coming together but little else. Eventually the Lancers will draw on the regional commands of the March to become operational as quickly as possible. That would be the Point Barrow Bulldogs. The rest of the Lancers save the original two should come into existence between 2786 and 2790. So it should probably be another year or two until they become active. ;)
Keep up the good work guys! Sorry to muddle this up with details. :P
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Details are important. ;)
Based on this info, I'm not sure if the 4th Crucis would be appropriate. Are there any Crucis Lancer closer to Chesterton than the 3rd Crucis based on Archernar? According to Sarna.net, the 3rd Crucis were used to stop a Liao attack on Chesterton in 2812. 3rd Crucis Lancers (http://www.sarna.net/wiki/3rd_Crucis_Lancers)
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Maybe an Avalon Hussars or Ceti Hussars Regiment?
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Well you could certainly try to answer the question of why the 3rd is the Achernar Lancers as they hail from the Marlette Combat Region - if I recall correctly. The 3rd is in a similar situation to the 4th as I described but you can count on them being active by January 1, 2786. So you'd have a year to make them active.
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"In 2930 the Crucis Lancers underwent a major reformation and restructuring. Though most of the changes were merely paperwork alterations such as renumbering the regiments...It was only after a battalion of the 33rd Crucus Lancers, now the 7th was lost...From House Davion; The Federated Suns."
I'm messing with things but there were a lot of inconcistancies in Canon such as the number of regiments etc. Besides, this ain't canon CBT so I figured on playing fast and loose with shaky info cause I haven't seen a full break down of the 1st SW in BTSD yet.
First the 4th are not the Point Barrow Lancers at all, they probably will become the 3rd after 2930 (Maybe). Or maybe they will get so hammered during the war that they'll be folder in to some other unit, dunno.
Second while they are the 4th in designation for the purposes of this story, they are simply the first to be active.
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The Cell, Maskirovka Compound, Forbidden City
Sian
Capellan Confederation
19 January, 2785
Gregory Varnay looked up from his computer terminal as his liege lord swept in. Barbara Liao pinned him with a raw almost feral stare.
"So it's true, Kerensky's gone." She said coolly.
"So it appears, Celestial Wisdom. We have few assets in Combine space, but as far as we can tell the Star League Defense Force armada has left known space. This concurs with the Statement provided us by the Draco ambassador"
The Chancellor nodded digesting the information; "Have you gotten a chance to review CASE CHERRY BOMB?"
"I have indeed, with the League troops gone, I would recommend using either the Turin Light Cavalry or your husband's own Highlanders to handle this operation, given the information supplied by or assets on Chesterton, the Tigers will be off world on training exercises with both the Chesterton Dragoons and the 5th Davion Guards after the Terran Regent's conference. The only opposition will be this Chesterton Training Battalion and the local Militia. Our troops under the guise of pirates should be able to overwhelm the local forces and leave behind a substantial core of operatives to set up CHERRY BOMB."
"Set it up, John has been agitating for some action anyway, have we any more information on the CTB?"
"No Highness, their commander still has them isolated from the general population, but unless they are getting far more support then we can see, their makeup is mostly mechanized infantry with about a battalion of BattleMechs."
Liao nodded a pensive look on her face.
"Still, their commander is a sneaky bastard, have him terminated as the Highlanders jump in. John can handle him but I'd rather not take chances."
"By your command."
Varnay sent out a pre planned command to go in under diplomatic cyphers to his operatives on the Davion possession.
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Nice installment BTA, only thing the 4th Tau Ceti Rangers are a TRAF command.
The Turin Light Cavalry are the SD univerise equivilant.
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Great work on Cherry Bomb BTA but Six is right about the Tau Ceti Rangers they are a Terran command. The Turin Light Cavalry might not be ready for such an assignment. We do have an outline of the CCAF and Mercenary Guild to fall back on for possible replacements.
"In 2930 the Crucis Lancers underwent a major reformation and restructuring. Though most of the changes were merely paperwork alterations such as renumbering the regiments...It was only after a battalion of the 33rd Crucus Lancers, now the 7th was lost...From House Davion; The Federated Suns."
I'm messing with things but there were a lot of inconcistancies in Canon such as the number of regiments etc. Besides, this ain't canon CBT so I figured on playing fast and loose with shaky info cause I haven't seen a full break down of the 1st SW in BTSD yet.
First the 4th are not the Point Barrow Lancers at all, they probably will become the 3rd after 2930 (Maybe). Or maybe they will get so hammered during the war that they'll be folder in to some other unit, dunno.
Second while they are the 4th in designation for the purposes of this story, they are simply the first to be active.
Keeping continuity while spinning an entertaining yarn is a tough thing. I don't want to tie your hands but the 4th just doesn't fit what we are doing from Threat Assessments. If you must have a Crucis Lancer regiment that is ready for action in the BTSD we have two. The 1st and 2nd Lancers. We also have regional forces that we've created that perhaps could fill the void. Threat Assessment summary again.
Been meaning to create a clearinghouse of information for BTSD on the development board but haven't gotten to it yet. Things are heating up at work for me and so for the next month I may not be able to do so but that will be the next extensive project on my list.
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Kind of off Topic but its been bugging me today, what happened to the Marine Regiment that joined the Tigers in the August coup?
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Providing the backbone for the infantry of the new Davion unit?
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Nice installment BTA, only thing the 4th Tau Ceti Rangers are a TRAF command.
The Turin Light Cavalry are the SD univerise equivilant.
Got it, will change this.
Kind of off Topic but its been bugging me today, what happened to the Marine Regiment that joined the Tigers in the August coup?
The 42nd CAAN is still on Terra, the Tigers were the sacrificial lamb here.
Keeping continuity while spinning an entertaining yarn is a tough thing. I don't want to tie your hands but the 4th just doesn't fit what we are doing from Threat Assessments. If you must have a Crucis Lancer regiment that is ready for action in the BTSD we have two. The 1st and 2nd Lancers. We also have regional forces that we've created that perhaps could fill the void. Threat Assessment summary again.
Been meaning to create a clearinghouse of information for BTSD on the development board but haven't gotten to it yet. Things are heating up at work for me and so for the next month I may not be able to do so but that will be the next extensive project on my list.
Yeah, okay, I'll figure out something, I guess we could be the 1st, but I didn't see any real listing for the Lancers on the forum, is it transfered yet?
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It was transferred but I will send you the info on the CCAF and the AFFS via PM.
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Kind of surprised Amanda didn't send the 42nd to House Steiner to do the same job for the LCAF that the 90th is for the FedSuns.
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Okay, I'm an idiot...I had the answer already. The Chesterton Training Battalion. As Muttley wrote here:
http://www.shatteredcore.net/forum/index.php?topic=380.0
The best way to hide something is to sound boring.
Simple; The CTB becomes the Chesterton Training Regiment (Provisional)/Crucis Lancer Brigade aka "The Devil Cats" Eventually then they will form the core of the a Crucis Lancer Regiment. By that time the war with Kurita will be in full swing. The Devil Cats will be sent to the Combine front to engage Kurita troops. As time goes by they will take on more and more recruits from other parts of the Federated Suns.
BTW Tak, I'd read what you'd sent me before. (Although I'd missed the Tau Ceti bit...whoops) My point was there was nothing on the 4th. With the basic idea of John Davion using a core of SLDF veterans to improve the AFFS, the 1st and 2nd Regiments are nearest to completeion with full support assets and SLDF grade equipment. Most likely the other Lancer units are like the CTB, no transport assets or aerospace, still forming thier infrastructure...etc.
So bang...done.
Kind of surprised Amanda didn't send the 42nd to House Steiner to do the same job for the LCAF that the 90th is for the FedSuns.
Well you could write that one..... ::)
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Kind of surprised Amanda didn't send the 42nd to House Steiner to do the same job for the LCAF that the 90th is for the FedSuns.
Well you could write that one..... ::)
[/quote]
Humm let me think..........
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Yup- The Liao's will never expect a "Training Regiment" to fight like the Tigers....
Although a Varnay should expect treachery.. its in their blood. Maybe even some Silica relays... "By your command" indeed!
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One thing that i've just noticed, Rat's Battalion is down as being Shadow Hawks, Griffins & Ostsols.
There's one little problem with that the AFFS doesn't have factories building the Shad or the Ost at this time, they could have stockpiled the Shad's from the Free Worlds factory but the only Ost factory is in Terran space and they probably wouldn't be exporting them.
Would the Dervish & Enforcer be better choices?
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One thing that i've just noticed, Rat's Battalion is down as being Shadow Hawks, Griffins & Ostsols.
There's one little problem with that the AFFS doesn't have factories building the Shad or the Ost at this time, they could have stockpiled the Shad's from the Free Worlds factory but the only Ost factory is in Terran space and they probably wouldn't be exporting them.
Would the Dervish & Enforcer be better choices?
2785 is probably a bit early for the Enforcer. I think TR3025 said the OST series was only built on Terra. But we don't know about the Shadow Hawk. It is possible that there was a Shadow Hawk factory in the FS that was destroyed during the SWs. There were numerous factories that were destroyed which are either not mentioned or only barely mentioned in any of the SBs.
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One thing that i've just noticed, Rat's Battalion is down as being Shadow Hawks, Griffins & Ostsols.
There's one little problem with that the AFFS doesn't have factories building the Shad or the Ost at this time, they could have stockpiled the Shad's from the Free Worlds factory but the only Ost factory is in Terran space and they probably wouldn't be exporting them.
Would the Dervish & Enforcer be better choices?
2785 is probably a bit early for the Enforcer. I think TR3025 said the OST series was only built on Terra. But we don't know about the Shadow Hawk. It is possible that there was a Shadow Hawk factory in the FS that was destroyed during the SWs. There were numerous factories that were destroyed which are either not mentioned or only barely mentioned in any of the SBs.
Going from memory the Enforcer entered production in 2777 so it might be issued to a new regiment. As for a Shadow Hawk factory i'm sure we could put one in somewhere.
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Shadow Hawk were used by the AFFS (look at the original fluff from TRO 3025).
The Enforcer was put in production in 2777.
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The Enforcer was put in production in 2777.
In canon. I'm not sure that we have a decision for SD.
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The Enforcer was put in production in 2777.
In canon. I'm not sure that we have a decision for SD.
True but this is our only guide until the Powers to Be decide something.
What about the Enfield?
With the technological knowledge of the former Star League still available, I think it should be produced by someone.
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The Enforcer was put in production in 2777.
In canon. I'm not sure that we have a decision for SD.
True but this is our only guide until the Powers to Be decide something.
What about the Enfield?
With the technological knowledge of the former Star League still available, I think it should be produced by someone.
Well it shares a lot of its design with the Enforcer so if the FedSuns have access to the high tech items it would be a good addition to the AFFS.
As for the Shadow Hawk, it would be easy enough too put a production line into the Federated Suns.
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I'll have to research it more but the Enforcer was an Achernar design correct? Bought to the Suns by that powerful Terran family who started their own manufacturing business on New Avalon. I would keep the 2777 date. Perhaps some went to the SLDF but it is certainly available to the AFFS in 2785.
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I'll have to research it more but the Enforcer was an Achernar design correct? Bought to the Suns by that powerful Terran family who started their own manufacturing business on New Avalon. I would keep the 2777 date. Perhaps some went to the SLDF but it is certainly available to the AFFS in 2785.
No.
From the fluff of the Enforcer
The basic design is based on schematics of an unbuilt Star League 'Mech that was recovered by the Federated Suns.
From the fluff of the Enfield
The plans for the Enfield were lost during the Succession Wars and were recovered by the Federated Suns on the world of Achernar.
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One thing that i've just noticed, Rat's Battalion is down as being Shadow Hawks, Griffins & Ostsols.
There's one little problem with that the AFFS doesn't have factories building the Shad or the Ost at this time, they could have stockpiled the Shad's from the Free Worlds factory but the only Ost factory is in Terran space and they probably wouldn't be exporting them.
Would the Dervish & Enforcer be better choices?
While not listed in canon the FS must have a Shad plan somewhere hence the lame ass D version, I'm assuming the FS bought some of the Ost industries production. As to the Enforcer? To damn slow. If you notice that all the Devil Cats maneuver combat units have a minimum speed of 86 kph. Not counting Hussy and a few other units segregated into specific support units. There's a reason for this...
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One thing that i've just noticed, Rat's Battalion is down as being Shadow Hawks, Griffins & Ostsols.
There's one little problem with that the AFFS doesn't have factories building the Shad or the Ost at this time, they could have stockpiled the Shad's from the Free Worlds factory but the only Ost factory is in Terran space and they probably wouldn't be exporting them.
Would the Dervish & Enforcer be better choices?
While not listed in canon the FS must have a Shad plan somewhere hence the lame ass D version, I'm assuming the FS bought some of the Ost industries production. As to the Enforcer? To damn slow. If you notice that all the Devil Cats maneuver combat units have a minimum speed of 86 kph. Not counting Hussy and a few other units segregated into specific support units. There's a reason for this...
Fair enough, i look forward to seeing the reason.
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General announcement for all fans of the series - the first three books of the Black Tiger Saga are now available for download on our main page. ;)
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Great news,
Sorry if this is wrong plasce to post this - as of 19:14 on May 28 2010 link for book 1 download not working.
Thanks.
Dave.
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That is odd... I saw a similar post on CBT for the same problem. I just checked the homepage again and the link for Book 1 worked fine for me. ???
DB - Do you want me to email it to you while Knightmare checks it out?
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Hmm, what viewer (Microsoft Explorer, Firefox) are you using? And what edition?? I'll have Knightmare check it out. ;)
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Yeah, book 1 won't download for me either but books 2 & 3 did first time.
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Six what browser you using?
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Browser wise I'm using I.E.8,
I'm OK with waiting untill the problem (? if any) is fixed Many Thanks for the offer to e-mail book 1 to me.
Best Wishes.
Dave.
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OH...OH I've just tried to download Book 1, And it downloaded perfectly. @ 07:22am GMT on May 29 2010.
Thank You.
Dave.
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Just tried it again and it worked, how strange 8)
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Glad to hear it!
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Been away a bit but I managed to find both time (and an internet connection!)
Ducal Palace, Landing, Chesterton...
The scene was all too familiar, Sarah, dressed impeccably as usual straightened the collar of my dress uniform, and adjusted the gold sunburst vest that hung like an armored breastplate across the left side of my chest. She chuckled at the look on my face. I hate these things, at least the 90th’s Dress uniforms had been comfortable. Still it’s not every day the Regent of the Terran Republic, the Last Cameron and the First Prince came to call on little old Chesterton.
“You have done this before you know…†she said grinning up at me.
“Never like this, hon, I mean we’re not their equals but this is our world.â€
Sarah reached up and stroked my cheek.
“Just be yourself.â€
At the same time, inbound...
Amanda Sinclair looked over at Ian as her husband fidgeted with his dress uniform. Shaking her head she smiled.
“Relax you look fine.†She said.
“It’s not that, these damn collars are too tight.†He grinned ruefully. Captain Maria MacRae chuckled in the back ground as she prepared the couple’s honor guard.
“It’s only for a little while, Ian.†A rumbling from the access way ended as the hatch opened on a corridor to the spaceport. At the other end stood an honor guard from the 90th Heavy Assault Regiment, led by Lieutenant Colonel Alex Winter. Amanda grinned as she saw Sarah behind them. After the short walk down the gangway the pair found themselves in a boarding lounge full of reporters.
Smiling and waving at the throng she checked her surprise as she took in Major no Colonel Gilmour in the dress uniform of an AFFS officer. It seemed wrong somehow. The posing for a photo op was blissfully brief and the group filled into a waiting limo. BattleMechs and armored cars from both the Sinclair Fusiliers and Black Tigers paced the limo as they drove the short distance to Ducal Palace.
Both Ian and Bruce reached up almost in unison and opened the collars of their dress jackets. Grinning at the younger man, Ian nodded at the Sunburst vest.
“That thing heavy, my Lord?†He asked. Bruce looked down at his uniform and shrugged.
“Not so much, and please Ian, my Lord? Really?â€
Chuckling Ian grinned raising his hands, “Hey didn’t want to cause an international incident here…†He paused. “You look worn out, thought t’was the life of a country Baron for you…â€
Alex laughed from his position by the door. He’d seen Sarah’s grimace.
“His Devil Cats don’t give him much rest.â€
“You’re still letting him play soldier, Sarah?†Amanda laughed.
“Blame Uncle John,†Sarah said, “If I had my way…†She smiled teasingly at her husband. Ian had leaned forward interested in how the new unit was shaping up and Bruce obliged him.
“Some supply problems, and I have more MechJocks then ‘Mechs, but our conventional support is pretty good, no transport or aerospace assets yet…†Sarah shook her head as she and Amanda traded looks.
We'll let the boys talk shop. Amanda’s look said.
“So, is your tour going as planned?†Sarah asked Amanda, the idea the Director-General had and Sarah herself had worked out some of the details of was now in full swing.
“Minoru pretends to listen, but he won’t deal, Kenyon’s reply was to offer to garrison the Hegemony for us…†Sarah snorted, like that would ever happen. “But Jenny…Jennifer Steiner and I have gotten the ground work laid out, as have John and surprisingly Barbara Liao.â€
“Her Divine Celestialness deigned to reply?†Sarah was surprised.
“Oh I’m sure if the Republic looks weak, then then our dear friend Barbie will think nothing of…†Amanda searched for the right words.
“Taking Terran worlds under the benign protection of herself.â€
“Exactly.â€
“…So TRAS?†Amanda heard Bruce say. “Should have gone with RAF.â€
“It’s TRAS.†Ian said. “Terran Republic Armed Services.â€
“Just sayin’.â€
“Nope.â€
“Okay.â€
Sarah and Amanda shared a look that said simply; Boys.
Off the south coast of Cavanaugh, Chesterton’s only continent, two continental plates which had been pressing against each other with unimaginable force suddenly slipped into a new alignment. The earth shook. Such things were rare but when they happened on a world with so much ocean… The tidal wave when it hit land would be massive. Under Lady Greene’s regime the sonar and radar net that had been set up to warn of such danger had suffered. Sarah had instituted a plan to reconstruct the net, but progress was slow. Too slow.
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Good to see you back! Thanks for the update.
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What Rat said! ;D
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So the Last cameron visiting is an earth-shattering event?
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So the Last cameron visiting is an earth-shattering event?
;)
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I was going to do the surf's up joke but i see someone beat me to it over on CBT.