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One

“When the first attacks occurred we thought it was other pirates however it was really the Draconians. Appearing from nowhere they set up bases, almost overnight, around every mining cluster in the sea. The initial attacks caught everyone by surprise the Draconians travelled in fleets of up to five ships some of them massive. There was no communications, no visible contact instead we had to try and match them developing new weapons, new ships and new defences. Although this helped us match the Draconians it also brought the attacks from other islands, ambitious ship captains, ruthless pirates so starting the never ending cycle of war.

The old Marauder took to the seas as easy as a new ship it’s hull cutting through the growing waves a storm brewed on the horizon. At the bridge the Captain stood like a statue staring out to sea, it was midafternoon you could see for miles and miles. “Set a course for the mine, the longboat crew were mining at.”

“Aye Captain” the crew replied, the Marauder turned away from the Island heading east towards a nearby metal mine. Despite the sea covering almost all the land of the planet the Islanders had been able to find areas of land too small for a town or base but large enough for a small crew to mine minerals at. They’d also found some rundown but operational wind farms floating on the ocean still anchored to the bedrock as they had been for centuries surviving even the raising tides giving them an energy resource to run their outposts and work their machines.  Over time the pirates had constructed new oil rigs and tapped the Earth's oil reserves for the first time in decades giving them access to lost resources and another lifeline to recreating their world.

The journey towards the metal mine was a short one but before they even reached the mine the Captain could see a difference, ahead in the middle of a mining area a huge metallic island had risen from the sea. Although the Marauder hadn’t been to sea in many years the Captain often joined mining and trade missions and he knew this was something new. “What the hell?” The Captain whispered

“Sir, incoming vessels from the… that thing” a crew member warned stumbling over the words. “To the east sir.”

“Helm, slow to dead slow” the Captain ordered raising his telescope scanning the horizon. Suddenly he saw them six ships moving in close formation five vessels forming an arrowhead in front of a cargo ship. He didn’t recognize any of the ship designs only that they moved fast, were large and they didn’t appear to have any open deck areas. “They aren’t coming any closer to us, prepare to dock with the mine, we’ll test the ground see if anyone approaches us and if…” Before he could finish his sentence someone shouted a warning.

“Incoming fire!” moments later machine gun fire raked the Marauder from long range, most of it missed landing in the sea but some tore into the ship’s hull.

“Helm, come to port thirty degrees! Ripper Turrets fire at targets as they come into range!” The captain screamed looking at the incoming ships three small ships no larger than a scout ship employed by the Outpost. Moving in close formation towards the single Marauder. As they closed all three ripper turrets opened fire positioned fore, centre and aft the three cannons tore into the closest enemy vessel first tearing it to pieces before switching targets to the second vessel. The captain smiled glad to see the crew had not forgotten their training and concentrated their fire. Moments later the Marauder was hit again causing more damage.

“Communications out sir!” Someone reported

“Understood, continue turn aft gun volley fire both remaining targets. Forward and midships reload prepare for second round.” The Marauder continued to turn the aft gun now picking up the slack of the other guns firing into both remaining vessels.

“Sir they are trying to put us between them, flanking us!”

“Continue turn! Forward midships rippers prepare to attack target designated Alpha.” the captain said activating his own console indicating which target he wanted hit. “Aft gun continue volley fire at Beta target.”

There was some “aye sirs” but they were droned out by the Marauder taking more enemy fire the Captain grimaced his beloved ship had served for years and years how long would the repairs be this time. The forward and midships guns suddenly opened fire together tearing into their target the deafening roar of a pair of Ripper Machine Cannons was something to behold, not the most advanced weapon of the old world it was one of the few weapons completely understood by the Outpost's scientists and it had become standard fit on all the Outpost’s ships. After today the Captain thought perhaps it was time to invest in some new weapons research, and some more Howitzers…

BANG!

BANG!

Two more impacts against the Marauder’s hull brought the Captain back into the real world and the continued battle. Suddenly the ship in front of them exploded in a ball of flame, whoever these people were their ships weren’t built to last in a fight. “Helm bring us to starboard bring forward guns into play against target bravo” the captain ordered, the last ship must have realized that it was useless to continue and was turning to run but there was no chance the captain or her crew would allow that now. The Marauder continued it’s graceful turn brining it’s guns on the target, suddenly all three rippers field’s of fire merged on the single remaining damaged target, it stood no chance the three machine gun turrets tore the ship to pieces. As the last ship appeared to begin to surrender something exploded inside the ship blowing up whatever remained of the craft.

“B*******” the captain swore seeing the destruction of the vessel “they don’t want us to know who they were… all crew this is the captain well done.” he said congratulating the crew, their first combat in years and a victory. “Commence repairs and salvage operations we need to find out who these people were.” He said dishing out new orders “Commander, you have the bridge.” He said to his executive officer before heading below to his cabin, there was much to think about.

Hours later with its battle damage repaired the Maruader began to sail home to the Outpost, from the destroyed enemy ships they had found crates of metal ore that their crews had mined before attacking the Marauder, a couple of weapon fragments but no sign of the crew only a name “Draconian” a name completely foreign to the captain he wondered who they were and what their presence meant to the Outposts continued survival only time and the people’s reactions would tell.

Nice. Unfamiliar with the game, but this was fun to read.

it's addictive and has kept me sort of sane recently :S


Two

“The Council of Captains had been formed following the arrival on the island each of the five captains who had brought people to the island were granted a place as well as the senior civilians reprehensive and the island’s security chief. Following initial landings two of the ships a large tanker and a passenger liner were beached, broken and turned into the first Outpost building and the first factories of the island. The Captains of these ships were retained on the Council out of respect and their positions have been retained ever since.”

The Marauder had returned battle damaged but victorious with parts of the Draconian vessel for study. The Captain headed directly into the Outpost heading for the council chambers despite the Marauder’s communication damage he knew that the council would be in session. Entering he looked at the six other members of the council. “Welcome back, Captain” Senator Michaels said grimly “I understand your ship is damaged, you found someone to fight I gather?”

“I did, Senator, at a nearby mine. All I have is a name Draconian, I have little further information on them.”

“You made contact with them with a weapon before you tried to talk to them. Our miners could have trespassed.”  Michaels was in his early thirties young to hold his position but he'd worked the political game for a long time.  Always dressed in an smart suit of some sort his short blonde hair was kept tidy, never worn by hard work.  In many ways he was everything the Captain was not.

“Senator!” Another member of the council shouted Captain Stewart, the miner’s representatives on the council one of the older members of the council there was a near constant smell of fish around him as he'd more often than not came from one of the Island's many vessels, “our miners have used that mine and the other around here for almost a century. The other Pirates in the area use them as well, we all know they are remnants of the old world.” He said bowing his head for a moment in remembrance “they belong to no-one.”

“Agreed, our island needs access to those mines.” Security Director Melville said quietly “Captain, please continue your report.” she said smiling thinly trying to break the tension.  More often than not she was the one to move the Council forward aged between Michaels and Stewart she had experience from the seas that was tempered by the red-tape of the Island's rulers.

“They travel in packs from what we observed both as they travel the sea and in those that approach mines. We observed ships three of four times the size the Marauder travelling across the ocean's surface leaving their ‘metallic bases’ they travel in packs between three and five vessels. After a brief skirmish, we collected samples of their hull and of their weapons, which I have ordered taken to the scientists.” He said continuing “I wish to formally put to a vote spending on further vessels capable of fighting off further Draconian attacks, increased defences such as more Howitzers and research into new weapons technology to help us.”

“All of which will bring eyes of others on our island. We are a peaceful people.” Senator Michaels stressed.

“But we need to defend ourselves” Captain Stewart argued “I agree we need to increase the size of our fleet and increase our defensive fortifications.”

“As do I, especially increased numbers of Howitzers, I already have an expansion program for their deployment” Director Melville agreed.

“My scientists have been looking into recovering weapons from the world before. We have made some breakthroughs. If you wish it then some of these weapons should be available to the new ships. From a research perspective, I would also vote to continue to engage Draconian targets, the new weapon samples you brought back are… interesting, they could begin new research and development which would keep my people busy for years.” Dr ‘Captain’ Rachel McManus said her Captain rank was honorary held over from when one of the original ships had been broken up to increase the size of the Outpost and provide civilian quarters for the first inhabitants. She was also a strong supporter of the Captain and the other ship captains as she was able to see her new technology in use.

“Captain Dimitri is at sea” the Captain said quietly

“Then as is tradition his vote is classed as a non-voter” Michaels said with a smile “leaving it to Tech Captain Owen” Senator Michaels continued “who appears not to have turned up again.”

“Probably fixing battle damage.” the Captain said quietly

“As a result a second non-vote leaving the vote passed in favour of increased ship spending and defence with four votes to one with two abstentions.” Senator Michaels said “vote to be reassessed in three months to ensure our people’s money and resources are being correctly spent.”

“I can live with that” the Captain said knowing exactly what was coming raising from his chair leaving the room quite quickly heading for the construction yard.

Minutes later the Captain had moved from the Council Chambers and had arrived at the Construction yard where a new Longship sat in dry-dock being constructed. “Tech Owen, you missed the Council meeting” the Captain said entering Owens’s office a small smile playing on his lips.

“What a tragedy” the Tech grumbled quietly not even bothering to look at the Captain “what did I miss Capt’n?”

“More spending on new ships”

“Really?” The tech said spinning around in surprise.

“With the Draconian threat they can’t see any other way.” the Captain said “so what can you do with our ships?”

“With our current fleet not much.” The Tech said glancing down the Captain’s expression turned from being amused to being quite annoyed. “The current Scout, Courier and Longships are just too small to be retrofitted with new equipment. You’d have to dig so deep into the hull to fit the stuff you may as well build a new ship. Even your Marauder” the Tech said nodding towards the Captain’s own ship which was being lifted out of the sea to be repaired “is too small, I’d have to gut her before it would be effective.”

“So what can you do?”

“Well that’s the bright side” the Tech said turning towards his desk, the Captain moved forward to see a group of drawings “new scouts can carry light guns like Rippers or even a Thud cannon and be turned into Gunboats not too difficult since we’ve already being playing around with the idea. The Courier similar to the Scout but a little bigger so a Skirmisher of some sort?” The Tech said the Captain nodded minimal armaments but better than now. “The Longships would make good Thud Cannon platforms or missile carriers we could put a pair of either Thuds or Rapiers giving it range or power your choice really.”  The Captain again nodded the Thud Cannon, or Thud, was an autocannon type weapon placed on a turret like the ripper it had a more effective range and more bite per shot with a slower rate of fire.  The Rapier was a medium ranged missile capable of striking at far longer range it was less accurate but carried a decent punch and could be fired at a decent pace.

“Nice work, anything further?” the Captain asked impressed by the work but not over rawed by it.

“Well we’ve been looking at your Marauder for years” the tech said flicking the page “I can’t do anything with your ship she’s too old and too compact for a refit. But we could reproduce it, with Thud Cannons, Rapier Missiles, even the new Hydra or Diplomat could fit on it.” The Captain almost smiled the Hydra was a launcher that fired dozens of rockets smaller than the larger Rapier Missile but they were quite dangerous in close.

“The Diplomat?”

“A new longer ranged weapon, a Mortar of sorts firing an explosive shell over those walls other bases have.” Owen explained.

“So an offensive weapon?” The captain asked thinking of the implications of that move.

“Well… a Ripper can be used offensively Captain” the Tech said innocently “but you’re right it would be classed as something to open up other people’s bases.”

“Good I like it, mass production of the Marauder hull with as much weapons you can on each would be very nice.” The captain said noticing the Tech’s hand hovering over the page “anything further Owen?”

“Yes Capt’n” he said flicking the page once more showing a drawing for something that looked like an oil tanker of old.

“A tanker?”

“It’s partially based that three times the size of your Marauder four weapon turrets plenty armour and twice the extras. We’re calling her the Big B****.” Owen said smiling

“You’re calling?” The captain asked quietly thinking Senator Michaels would have a heart attack if he heard the name.

“Yes, her official name is the Battle Barge, as it’s designed for battle and it moves like a big b… barge” the Tech finished on a more polite note.

“Stick with the proper name.”

“Aye Capt’n” the Tech said resigned as the Captain left. As the Captain moved away he hard the tech shout “Schmee! We’re building Marauders. But the Captain didn’t go for the nickname of the new boat!” he shouted there was a reply which the Captain couldn’t quite make out “If that Levi ever makes it onto my desk, never mind sail, I’ll eat Marshall’s hat!” The Tech shouted laughing in reply. Although the captain couldn’t make out the reply the Techs were all laughing so at least they were in good spirits, soon the Captain hoped they’d have a fleet of ships to take on the Draconians with numbers and firepower.

Walking away he walked into Dr Rachel McManus “Captain, a small word”

“Yes Doctor”

“From the wreckage your recovered from that Draconian craft we found part of a schematic of something called an Impact Canon. I can’t guarantee it will be any better than our technology but do me a favour keep an eye out for other gems when you are out there.”

“Along with staying alive I’ll do what I can.”

Hope you enjoy

Four

“Even after an attack by another Pirate lord there were those who wished to remove our guns even if they were defensive. Although these people were silenced quickly but public opinion and fear it was clear that many within our small group wanted to remain the peaceful, pre-Draconian Island that we appear to have lost in our growing up period.”

It took nearly two hours to return home however the attack was still underway around Michael’s Island there were five ships four looked like Battle Barges however one vessel was twice as massive with a wide elaborate forward section and a tapered off aft section. “Rick to Bravo-Bravo-One”

“Go ahead, Captain” the Captain almost cursed so much for Rick not interfering.

“It looks like your island is under attack by Blackheart.”

“Blackheart?” The Captain asked it didn’t sound like a name.

“One of those out of sector pirate lords I mentioned.” He explained “listen Captain your ships won’t be able to hurt his ships but we can maybe chase him off together. My ships are more battle hardened than yours, I’ll frustrate him hopefully drive him off, you watch my back just in case there’s another fleet in the area Blackheart has been known to travel in packs.”

“Agreed, thank you captain”

“Don’t thank me, just pay me back if I’m ever attacked.” Rick said his five ships quickly overtook the Captain’s ships heading straight for Blackheart fleets.

“Sir orders?”

“Communicate to all ships spread out keep an eye on our backs as well as the hostile fleet. Contact the outpost tell them to hold on reinforcements are on the way.” The Captain ordered watching as the battle unfolded in front of him feeling helpless wondering how many had been lost, what had been destroyed, who he’d lost.

The battle was over surprisingly quickly, a few minutes and everything was over, Rick’s ships concentrated their fire on the large central flagship firing long range missiles and thud cannon fire into it while dodging Blackheart’s mortar and ripper fire. Although Rick’s own Battle Barge and Marauder-class vessels were out massed by those of their enemy they were nimbler and as the Captain watched he realized they really did know how to fight against other pirates. Quietly the Captain wondered how Rick’s people had learned their trade however when Blackheart ships broke off their attack and turned away from the island the Captain joined the rest of the crew in cheering, their island was safe. “Move us in, let’s help their salvage operations.” The Captain said as the bridge began to calm down however as soon as their ships approached Rick’s a missile volley flew over their bow landing in the sea less than one hundred metres away, a deliberate miss.

“Bravo-Bravo-One, to Rick, mind explaining your actions” the Captain almost shouted into the microphone as his crew prepared for their own lesson in fighting a Forsaken fleet.

“We are involved in salvage operations, Blackheart appears to have claimed some of your stored resources during his attack, we are recovering them.”

“That is most appreciated however we can recover our losses ourselves.” The Captain said thanking him, there was no reason for his neighbour to recover what had been looted from the island as well as helping defend it.

“You miss understand Captain, we are claiming what Blackheart lost as compensation for our battle losses. We won this battle and we won these resources, if you want them, my ships may be damaged but we’ll happily fight you as well” he warned “then maybe go a round or two with your island.” Rick threatened.

“Captain, I thought we were friends?” The Captain said peering out his bridge windows looking at Rick’s fleets as the began to move off.

“You have a lot to learn, we’re Forsaken, I am happy to work with your people but remember me and mine come first. Now mend your wounds, you’re on Blackheart radar now as am I, be ready to defend yourself in the future and remember our deal.” Rick said cutting off communications as his ships limped away the Captain could see two of the ships were being towed by the others and the Battle Barge was badly dented by weapons fire.

“Captain?” One of the crew asked

“Take us home, let’s see the damage, communicate to all deployed ships to stay on their guard and stay at the outer marker until communications to return.” The Captain said resigned to allowing Rick’s forces to retreat and dreading what they would find within their battered island.

The Island was a mess even as the Captain’s ships sailed through the narrow channel they could see that Blackheart’s mortars had done their damage almost ever factory, resource warehouse and research facility had been damaged. The Outpost was on fire and an entire wall had been knocked in, the casualties would be excessive. The Captain raised his microphone to his mouth speaking to all the ships of his fleet “once docked all non-essential crews disembark and begin search-and-rescue operations in the base, I want all damaged buildings searched and evacuated to the nearest medical facility.” He said as the Battle Barge entered the damaged shipyard, the facility itself was badly scored by battle damage and fire, repairs on ships would have to wait a while. He turned to the communication officer “stay on board Lieutenant, you will be our link to the world, keep in contact with our deployed ships and coordinate with the search-teams.”

“Aye sir, good luck sir.” the young man said, the Captain knew well the Lieutenant would have family in the base either at work or residing in the Outpost, wondering if they were alive, but he needed communications maintained.

The Captain left the command bridge and joined his crew as they landed on the island, even just as they made landfall the Captain could see two dead dock workers. Ship crew checked the bodies but even the Captain could tell they were gone as he stepped past them. He headed up a staircase from the shipyard heading into the Science Labs with a small team from his ship, one of his crew handed him a hand-held flashlight as they entered the hull research section “hello!” He shouted listening for a reply or any sound. Moving through the facility “is anyone there? Does anyone need help?” He shouted something moved and an upturned table fell to the ground a young woman and a small child crawled out from behind it in a small alcove which had survived the attack “get them out of here” the Captain ordered his crew as he pushed on through the facility. Pushing into the Advanced Equipment facility he heard a muffled cry for help from under some fallen roof supports “Hello” he said pushing some debris to the side seeing a blood covered arm “don’t worry I’m coming for you.” He said trying to lift the supports clear unable to move it he shouted for more help two crewmen from the Battle Barge arrived and lifted the crossbeam. The Captain ducked down under it trusting his crew, pushing some more debris to the side revealing more of the person who was trapped “Rachel?” He stammered shocked Dr Rachel McManus head of research and a member of the council, blood had matted her dark hair too her head “I’m going to get you out” he promised forcing some more rubble to the side. He was able to get a hold of the scientists shoulders and pulled. Rachel screamed out in pain but she slowly began to move “someone pull us out, I’ve got her!” The Captain shouted back unable to move further by himself.

“Get clear” Rachel whispered seeing the Captain now also stuck.

“Not a chance, we’ve lost too much today, no-more.” He replied “Get us out of here!” he shouted again finally he felt someone grab his legs and his body begin to move backwards first slowly then increasing in momentum.  He was almost out when something stabbed him in the back the Captain screamed out in excruciating pain as uniform, skin and muscle were torn open, his crew continued to pull in spite of his scream knowing if they didn't get him out the whole building could crush them all.

“Get them clear!” Someone shouted the Captain tried to raise by himself but someone shoved him back to the ground “Captain, don’t move, you’ve done yourself some damage we’ll get you clear.” Someone said softly the Captain glanced up and noticed Rachel holding her left arm in her right but standing smiling down at him she was safe, one less loss today. As the Captain slipped unconscious he promised that his people would be safe going forward - no more amateur stuff from now on every life was precious.

Six

“Contrary to what some say we didn’t go looking for trouble. The Captain did everything he could to keep us from engaging the enemy. Unfortunately Blackheart wasn’t alone in defending his base that area was a death trap and we were lucky to slip away and return home.”

For a well known pirate lord there was very few people who wanted to become involved in the Captain’s search for Blackheart’s base of operations. All they could do is head in the general direction of Blackheart’s retreat however in the horizon-to-horizon sea it was a needle in a hay stack until they had a lucky break. Heading north the fleet of five Battle Barges from Michaels Island came across a group of Forsaken ships under attack by Draconian forces which were defending a cargo ship. Although they were certain the Forsaken fleet had been the attacker and been taken surprise by the Draconian fleet, the Draconians were no friends and the Captain ordered the Battle Barges to engage.

As the surviving three ships retreated from the remaining two Draconian vessels the five Battle Barges came in together behind their opponents opening fire with a barrage of Thud Cannon and Rapier Missile fire. The missile and cannon fire from the forward three Battle Barges broke the back of one of the Draconian vessels almost immediately snapping the vessel into two distinct parts, the second ship was hit by four Peacemaker mortars from the rear two Battle Barges which broke their rudder and engine screws leaving the ship unable to turn or accelerate. Drifting the ships were dead meat to the remaining three ships of the Captain's fleet. With the Draconians stopped they were able to contact the surviving Forsaken vessels under the command of Captain Alex War.

Although Alex was appreciative of the save and he knew of the Pirate Lord Blackheart he didn’t know where the pirate was based. Instead he agreed to share the resources gained from the Draconians and passed on coordinates for another pirate who may know more about Blackheart. Several days later they arrived at an Island controlled by Lord Will the Third. Lord Will was able to provide information on the general location of Blackheart’s base and information that the base was marked with a gold and red skull-and-crossed bones flag.

Armed with this information the fleet pushed on for another three days they sailed north west heading past multiple fleets several that came close to the fleet but none who were willing to challenge the Battle Barges. The Captain was surprised to see that almost every fleet he had seen had variations of the Gunboat, Skirmisher, Longship and Marauder his own fleet that used they even saw what looked like a variation of a Battle Barge with huge reinforced sides of an enlarged cargo hold and machine guns on the deck.

“Captain, we’re approaching the coordinates Lord Will gave us.” One crewman as the Captain walked onto the bridge.

“Good everyone stay alert, all ships assume combat formation.” The Captain ordered

“Captain, there are three island’s in close proximity all three have the same red and gold flags.” Another crewmen alerted. “We have fleets of longships and Skirmishers approaching from both port and starboard.”

“Hell” the Captain whispered “All ships combat formation Alpha combat stations Battle Barge Two you and Battle Barge five engage the ships to port, we will engage the fleets to starboard.” He transmitted the crewmen listening to his orders to the others had already begun turning to ship towards the enemy the forward Thud Cannons almost immediately opened fire tearing two of the skirmishers to pieces almost immediately. The other ships were also firing their weapons tearing a pair of longships apart with their weapons.

“Torpedoes in the water!” A crewmen screamed the Captain looked up and saw the two underwater projectiles.  His own people were working on something similar but so far no success in making them work.

“Helm full port rudder!” The captain ordered glancing across the ocean he saw Battle Barges Two and Five had completed their work and were heading back. “All ships Formation Alpha break formation and avoid torpedoes. Battle Barge Two circle around enemy formation hit them from the rear beware torpedoes.” He said contacting Captain Fox’s two ships as his own vessel began moving defensively.

“Captain, from the islands two fleets each preparing to launch they’ll be at sea very soon.” An observer alerted, as if they weren’t already in enough trouble. Avoiding another spread of torpedoes Battle Barge Three wasn’t fast enough and was struck in its forward section.

“Oh no” the Captain muttered looking at the ship fortunately the crew quick to act sealed the flooding section however with water aboard the ship’s balance was completely out and her speed was destroyed, the ship would be a target if it continued to fight. “Battle Barge Three, effect repairs best you can break contact with enemy if possible” the Captain ordered the ship acknowledged his communication however it was moving very sluggishly, anyone watching would know which ship to attack. At almost the same time the two Longships which had been firing torpedoes exploded as Fox’s two ships ‘barged’ through them sinking both vessels in a single salvo.

“Sorry we took our time Captain, sight seeing.”  Fox replied as his ship gracefully moved through the enemy units.

“Understood Fox, good to have you with us. Both combat formations rejoin main squadron. Battle Barge Three begin repairs report if you need additional personnel or materials.” The Captain ordered looking at his scattered fleets, his eyes lingered on the holed Battle Barge Three wondering what the damage and casualty report would be. Even as he was lost in his thoughts a huge explosion erupted from the forward section of Battle Barge Four tearing off one of the Peacemaker Mortars. “What on Earth?!” The Captain exclaimed several crewmen were knocked from their knees as a result of the impact. “Observer have those fleets launched?”

“Negative Captain, that was base defenses. The first fleet is just coming clear of their dock now.”

“Base defence? That was some sort of mortar!” The Captain shouted as three more massive shells landed in the water around the fleet, the shells making massive impacts on the ocean's surface. “We can’t match that…” The Captain whispered

“Fox, to Battle Barge One, do you read. We cannot match that firepower, we need to fall back.” Captain Fox warned echoing the captain's own thoughts.

“Agreed, all ships fall back bring engines to full combat speeds, full retreat for home. We’ve found what we needed to find, let’s call this a victory.” The Captain ordered all ships turning to the observer “keep an eye on those fleets, I need to know their course and speed.”  He knew that he'd possibly opened a hornet's nest, they needed it shutdown quickly.

“Aye sir.” For the next several hours the observer updated the captain ever ten minutes as eight fleets then ten fleets chased the single damaged Battle Barge fleet. Comprised of Longships, Marauders, Battle Barges and even a couple of Leviathans, there were all massed against the five retreating Battle Barges.

The Captain retired to his quarters to think, they were leading these fleets back into what Captain Rick had called Sector 73. Blackheart undoubtedly knew where their base was but did the others. Would his Battle Barges improve the Island’s chances and add to its defences or condem it to more attacks, and if they didn't hit his home would they hit other Islands in the area causing damage to his neighbors? Lost in his thoughts the Captain almost missed his desk computer flashing he reached over and pressed the enter key the screen and web cam activated displaying Captain Fox’s image. “Captain, sorry to have bothered you sir.”

“No problem, Fox” the Captain said leaning back barely looking at Fox.

“Is there a problem with you, sir?  You seem distant, if you don't mind me saying.”

“No Fox, fine, living and breathing. Unlike the twenty-one souls on Battle Barge Four and the three souls on Battle Barge Three.”

“Sir, their deaths are not your fault. You couldn’t have known.”

“We should have waited longer, as soon as I saw those three bases all having the same flag we should have turned around.” The Captain muttered quietly going over the battle in his head “we should never have left the island.”

“We had to follow the evidence sir, see what we faced. It was only a matter of time before Blackheart came back. Now we know.”

“And we’re leading ten fleets back into the Sector, everyone gets to pay for my adventurism.”

“I was thinking about that. We’ve already met those willing to help us, as soon as we enter Sector 73 waters we broadcast a distress and warning signal informing everyone of what is going on, hopefully enlist some support.  Then we turn and kill every single fleet behind us or we die trying.”

“Who else will want to get involved?” The Captain asked remembering the reactions to Blackheart's name before.

“Captain Rick did, I bet others feel the same way. We stem this attack now.” Fox said, the Captain nodded glad he was not the only one thinking about this threat.

“Agreed Captain” the Captain said looking at the other man’s image fully “we stop them and sink them.” He said “pass the word all ships to broadcast our signal as soon as we are in the sector, and Fox?”

“Sir”

“Thanks.” He said nodding to the other man, a very capable second-in-command if things went wrong the Captain would make sure Battle Barge Two made it home if he knew his own ship would not make it.

Almost four days later the five damaged Battle Barges entered the waters marked as Sector 73 the radio activated on the same frequency as before and all five ships began broadcasting their distress call for all to hear. Hours later still on a direct course for home the radar operator reported contacts coming from the south east heading directly for them “ships on the horizon” an observer reported “nine fleets in total, big ships sir. Looks like there may even be a Leviathan or two among them.” The Captain's heart sank he'd hoped to avoid fighting so many in open sea, but some of Blackheart's forces must have gone around.

“Incoming communications” the communications officer reported.

“This is Captain Simon Hell to Battle Barge Fleet, you enjoy annoying Sector 72? Mind if we join the fun?” The radio message came through loud and clear. “I have Lord Will, Captain War, JJ Strong, Captain ‘Buk’ Buknola and I believe you know Captain Rick with me.” He said across the board sightings began to appears as other fleets appeared alongside the ships already in sight. “We are prepared for company.”

The combination of six other Island’s fleets together in mass formation was something to be seen the Captain ordered his own Battle Barges to pass through the formation turn and join them, as they turned they saw two formations of five Marauders. “Sir! Their ours!” The first officer alerted

“Marauder Seven report” the Captain ordered as both fleets of Marauders took up flanking positions around the Battle Barge fleet.

“Well Captain, it appeared you needed help, we couldn’t expect others to assist if we were not willing to assist you as well.” Senator Michaels replied from the Marauder's bridge.

“Michaels?” the Captain almost shouted down the microphone in surprise.

“Indeed Captain, let’s just say the Island needs you a lot more alive than dead.”

“Fall in behind us, we’ll open the door you knock it down.” He ordered as the first ships began to engage the enemy. Although the fleets from Sector 73 together outnumbered the fleets from the other sector in numbers but their ships were smaller in general. Working together two or three fleets engaged enemy fleets one after the next several ships were knocked out of the battle after taking heavy. Both Battle Barge Three and Four previously damaged in the combat near Blackheart’s base were forced to retire as were several other ships from all the fleets however after nearly three hours of heavy combat the two sectors disengaged Blackheart and his allies towing away their wrecked vessels.

On fire, holed just above the waterline and with two turrets disabled but still floating Battle Barge One was a mess looking out the shattered bridge windows the Captain could see almost all his ships were in as bad a condition, three of the Marauders were taking on water and in danger of floundering, casualties would be high on all the ships but the hulls would hopefully be salvageable.

“Battle Barge One to Captain Simon Hell, your assistance was appreciated as was everyone’s, why did you answer our calls we have done nothing for you?”

“You have also never caused us any harm, unlike Blackheart and his friends.” Simon replied “You are a member of this sector, you do not break our simple rules of non-aggression and we will not have a problem. If you need assistance there is some among us who are willing to help, you have much to learn about this sector Captain, but today I think you learned a great lesson. Standing up to Blackheart and his cohorts was a good step, I look forward to fighting with you again. Now we must take our leave, things to do I’m sure you understand.”

“I do” the Captain said “and the thanks of my crews and my island go out to you all.”

“Until the next time.” Hell promised then almost as quickly as they had come the other pirates from both sectors were gone, however an interest had sparked within him about not only his opponent Blackheart but also in the other islands of their sector.

Hope you enjoy

Another part, hope this is enjoyable not Battletech but something new

Eight

“The fight against Blackheart was possibly the biggest the sea had ever seen. It only increased in size when the Forsaken forces turned on nearby Draconian forces venting their anger and frustration. Revenge of the Forsaken turned the sea a Crimson colour few would forget.  Surprising most, this was just the start...”

The ships remained anchored on the border of the two sectors for another week there was less ships than the Captain had wanted to see, or had hoped for, however there were far more than he had feared would show. Surprisingly tempers and nerves did not come into it as the Captain called various ship commanders to Leviathan One. The ship was massive among the largest assembled however even then it lacked sufficient room for all the commanders to gather, so instead commanders were called together in groups based on their ship‘s size and function. Breaking the massive amount of ships assembled on the border into four Task Forces each with its own job.

“You will all be part of Task Force Electra under the command of Admiral Duinhir.” The captain had said to a group of commanders in total they numbered fifteen commanders and made up one of the largest groups assembled.

“Admiral Duinhir?” One asked looking confused

“AB Duinhir” the Captain said almost everyone knew it immediately some looked annoyed but others content. “You’re job with be to cover the three base formations and eliminate enemy fleets.”

“We won’t have a crack at the base?” One asked

“Not directly however as we approach Blackheart’s bases there are several Draconian mines and Forsaken-type mining fleets. Unless they answer comms you are free to engage them all.”

“I thought we were working together not working for you.” One challenged the Captain, it seemed this one didn’t want to follow the Admiral either.

“You are following no-one, you are engaging a target, a specific target, if you choose that you don't want to strike the target don't hit something else or stay the hell out of our way."  The Captain hit back angrily "If we all strike at one target we will get in each others way and cause more damage to ourselves than to the enemy.” The Captain explained “when in your target area, you will be able to engage any target assigned to your formation.”

“Where will your fleet be headed?” Another asked she was a small annoyed looking woman

“We are tasked with hitting one of Blackheart’s base, he has resources from my island.”

“Those are long spent” she said “as are ours.”

“Indeed but I’m sure Blackheart has plenty of his own. That we can take back, together.”

“You will profit and we will pay.” she said accusingly, she wasn’t the first to challenge the Captain over the last few days and likely wouldn’t be the last.

“We’ll all profit if Blackheart cannot raid our bases and fleets for the immediate future.” The Admiral said quietly sitting off to the side his uniform was a single jumpsuit with a golden shoulder patch. On the left arm of his jacket there was a coiled snake. “My ships are built for ship combat, we can support you in battle and ensure that everyone leaves with at least something.” He promised remaining seated but looking over each of the other commanders, he was confident. With the Admiral’s quiet words the commanders remained quiet as the Captain completed their briefing soon they were returning to their ships leaving the Captain to plan the next briefing. For someone who hadn’t fought a single enemy let alone planned an attack on another base less than a month before the Captain was becoming very apt at planning, he had no idea if they would come off as planned, but as someone very wise once said “a plan lasts as long as contact with the enemy.”

Days later the fleet began to move off with Task Force Laura under the command of the Captain in the centre of the formation. The formation included six fleets dedicated to anti-base duties carrying missile and mortar weapons. Alongside them were Task Force Juliet and Task Force Rebecca under the command of Captain JJ Strong and Captain Rick they were composed of similar sized ships and would engage the other two bases near Blackheart. Ahead of the formation sailed Task Force Electra challenging fleets that approached keeping the formation intact. Flanking and following the other forces was Task Force Savannah comprised mainly of Longships, Marauders and commanded by Shy’s fleet of three Leviathan sized ships. Although these ships would have been just at home as in an escorting role however Shy had agreed to provide a command platform for the lighter ships of the formation, they would cover the other fleets and help transport any excess supplies together it was a sight to be seen and no-one in the other sector was able to match them in numbers allowing them to approach their first targets near a Draconian base.

“Captain to the bridge, Captain to the bridge” the call went out throughout the ship early in the morning a few days later. The Captain left his quarters and headed up two decks and along a corridor, unlike his previous Marauder and Battle Barge Commands the Leviathan One had space for him to have an entire suite of rooms, however they were located away from the bridge making them more comfortable and less convenient.

The Captain entered the bridge several minutes later again unlike his previous commands the Bridge was not at the top of the ship with open views instead buried deep inside the ship under tons of Titanium armour. “Captain on the deck!” A security marine shouted as he entered, the Captain fought away a smile his people had gone from survivors to a professional fighting unit if just a few short weeks.

“What have we got?”

“Task Force Electra has reached its first target.” Senator Michaels said on the map table the Captain could see the icons representing the Admiral’s lead ships reach the first Draconian base and the mines around it. “Time to see if the Admiral’s pocket battleships are truly worth what he says they are.” The Senator said quietly, unlike the larger ships contributed by some the Admiral had sent a single fleet of five vessels that closely resembled the Sea Wolf ships Tech Captain Owen had wanted to build. Like the Leviathan it carried many weapons however unlike the larger ships the Sea Wolf-class was lighter armoured and far faster. Michaels had coined the phrase Pocket Battleship and it had stuck although others called it a destroyer.

The Admiral’s ships were identical heavily armed with Thud Cannons the five Sea Wolves tore through the first Marauder mining fleet sinking it in minutes. There was a gasp around the bridge as they witnessed the destruction wrought by the five ships. “Impressive” the Captain said “perhaps Owen had a good idea.”

“Perhaps, they are costly ships” Michaels cautioned “but worth it.” He said not looking up as the Admiral’s formation began to break-up. Other fleets overtaking the Admiral’s engaging further mining fleets sinking them in rapid succession, In less than fifteen minutes ten fleets belonging to various islands were destroyed or limping home, these ships now out of the way allowed the other four formations to pass through the area completely unmolested and unobserved.

Two days later this was repeated at the next group of miners and three days after that another mine field and another set of mining fleets received the same treatment and were sent home in pieces. Some of Task Force Electra had fallen others were limping home however much of the formation was still intact. With all the areas around Blackheart’s base clear of fleets all that was left was the three enemy bases defended by a few fleets, Blackheart’s primary defence fleets dominated by anti-ship fleets. With Task Force Electra damaged it was folded into Task Force Savannah screening the other fleets for the next stage.

Ten

"The best laid plans..."

Following the battle with Blackheart everything returned to a more normal routine, the plan to resolve the Blackheart crisis was complete now everyone could choose their own path again. With the vast majority of those who had joined the battle against the pirate lord returning to their own homes. For the people of Michaels Island a routine of mining, defending against Draconian raids and attacking the Draconian supply convoys passing through the area. During these quiet times the Captain had time to relax and spend with Rachel McManus he'd take to sitting in her office speaking about things while he was on shore watching her work.  This had slowly evolved their relationship into something far more.

On one of these occasions she'd turned the conversation onto him, "let's get married" she'd announced, they'd spoken about things but never seriously, today she was different. "Nothing big, us the Captains a few others, Michaels can preside. I checked" she said

"Why the rush?" he asked

"Why the delay?" she countered "you love me?"  She asked the Captain couldn't deny it, "look I don't know if you will be here or gone tomorrow. Nor do I know if a pirate king like Blackheart will attack and end us all. I want something I'm remembered by. I love you, it's the next step, if you're willing" she said drawing close the sent of her perfume came off her dark hair was intoxicating as always. "I also want to fit a dress before I get fat"

"You won't" he said pulling her close trying to reassure her.

"I will" she teased "I'm pregnant" she whispered into his ear. Some would say later the Captain's scream of delight broke glass across the Outpost however quickly the small reception turned into the wedding of the century and a couple of weeks passed as if it was a blink of an eye.

The day of the wedding ceremony and everything was perfect, no dramas from Rachel's side and none from the Captain's somehow someone had even been able to source the Captain a traditional kilt from his ancestor's home before the world flooded. He'd never worn one but it felt fitting, as he stepped into a new future to honour his past. He stood at the end of the meeting hall, the closest thing they had to a real church/worship room, Senator Michaels in a very expensive looking suit stood in front of him with Captain Fox standing beside him holding a pillow with a pair of rings on them.

There was a low murmour before the wedding music began, it was an odd mix of several cultures but it brought everyone's eyes to the doors and Rachel's entry. All eyes were glued on her enterance, her long brown hair was tied back and up making her tall neck seem even longer. Her dress was a pearl white coloured shoulderless dress that flowed several feet behind her, she'd chosen not to wear a veil and in her hands she carried a bunch of flowers. Because neither the Captain or Rachel had any immediate family she'd chosen to walk the aisle on her own. She gracefully moved down and joined the Captain at the foot of the podium. "Ladies and Gentlemen, we are gathered today to join these two individuals for eternity if anyone thinks this is not a match that is meant to be, please speak now." Michaels began as Rachel handed away her flowers turning to face the Captain. "Then please let us begin." Michaels began as a distinctive noise began to slowly grow echoing through the high roofed hall. "Dr Rachel McManus, do you take Captain..." Michaels continued as a the noise continued to raise a whishing-beating noise followed by a roar as a shadow passed over the hall's roof windows.

At that moment a trooper in full combat gear ran to the doors "Captain we need you!" He shouted the Captain looked at Rachel appologetically.

"Go, make sure we have a tomorrow." She whispered he leaned over kissed her on the nose and then ran towards the doors Captain Fox following closely behind. They ran out into the courtyard outside, the meeting hall was situated high in the main outpost building allowing it a small courtyard giving spectacular views of the island and the sea around it. The Captain noticed all eyes looking towards the sky and as he followed their gaze found himself speachless.

"What the hell is that?" Fox whispered breaking the silence

"A plane?" The Captain whispered remembering seeing them from history lessons, none flew now the land was covered in sea. In the air the strange aircraft with engines on its wingtips continued to circle slowly slowing moving closer, as it approached the aircraft slowed it's engines moving from horizontal to vertical. "A tilt-rotor aircraft" the Captain said changing his mind "very advanced technology Captain." He said glancing at Fox, they'd studied such things in history the Captain knew of some large ships that still had areas for such craft to be stored and launched but he'd never seen any active.

"God-damned Aliens" Fox said watching the strange machine change and slow to a stop before slowly decending around the courtyard marines were tracking it with their weapons. "Draconians?" He wondered more seriously the Captain could barely form words let alone think of who it could be but he knew he needed to speak before someone did something stupid.

"Everyone hold your fire!" The Captain ordered as the aircraft finally landed. Along both sides hung two long torpedoes while under the nose there was a large machine gun. At the back a ramp slowly decended, moments later two figures stepped clear of the craft. The Captain wouldn't have called them people, because they were far too big each more than 7ft tall dressed in full suits of metalic armour each arm ending in a claw with what looked like a machine gun over the knuckle. The Captain looked at the two figures and noticed no hostile movements, taking a chance he stepped out in front of them. "Identify yourself." He ordered looking at them.

The two suits stepped aside flanking the ramp as a single figure decended from the rear ramp of the craft. He was a young man perhaps twenty-five standard years old he wore a blue uniform which golden shoulder epulettes and appeared completely unarmed. "I'm Leftenant David Peerce of the Kixeye Corporation." The figure greeted his voice reminded the Captain of a scientist or of someone who had spent too much time living off his inheritance instead of real work. "Thank you for the greeting." He said "I represent Admiral Dredge, we have so far remained behind in the various sector conflicts however we believe it is time to come to a fore."

"Another faction on the seas? There are many why come to me?" The Captain asked bluntly, he'd had plans today, why was something or someone always in the way.

"We are Forsaken, Captain just like you, we used to go by the name of the Casual Cooperative however times and paths have changed. We have avoided conflict so far and made moves that you have not thought of or reached yet, like a return to the skies. This aircraft and the personal armour of our guards are just the first steps." He said opening his arms wide "we have however other plans, I am not the only messanger Captain, there are many others to many other bases. We have decided it is time to provide the Draconians with a clear message that the Sectors will not continue to approve their presence. A mass raid with each base attacking their mine defences and supply fleets."

"Why not just cut off the head and attack their bases?" The Captain asked

"Even our technology has not progressed to allow us to breach their defences, however we hope to have some things Coming along soon that will allow us to breach them. For now our mass raid tactics are the only real option." The Leftenant said slightly resigned, here is an information pad" he said handing over a small hand held computer, more advanced than most of them the Captain had ever seen. "It has our plans for the Draconian Raid, I hope your people will be interested and will attend, my aircraft will return to our Fortress. If you have further requests we will be availiable on the sector communications grid just look for Dredge." The young man stepping back saluting the Captain before returning inside the aircraft, he was swiftly followed by the two armoured troopers and the aircraft was soon back in the air.

"Fox have radar track that craft what's its course." The Captain ordered Fox nodded raising his raido to his lips as they watched the aircraft move away from the island out to sea, even their eyes could see the huge ship out at sea.

"Returning to that massive ship captain" Fox said the craft was long and wide with a tall arced fin at the rear, the aircraft landed on the mid-deck of the ship and was lowered within its hull. They stood there for a few minutes watching as the ship continued to slowly sail past the island, keenly aware that it dwarfed even their flagship Leviathan, at its current speed it would take hours to leave the area.

"We need a council meeting, and we need to analyse the data on this pad." The Captain said holding the small device in both hands "we need to understand these Kixeye people and what their operations mean to this region."

"Captain..." Fox hesitated "your wedding plans?" He said quieter, the Captain stood there his eyes closed for several moments, the best laid plans never lasted contact with a problem, no plan seemed exempt.

Authors note:  The aircraft is a V-22 Osprey, the armour is something like a Nighthawk PA(L)

Twelve

"Not everyone was convinced with Kixeye's plans or the Revenge Raid however the chance of glory and the promise of resources had the ship captains convinced that it was the best course. As more and more lives were lost and ships were damaged everyone began to question its worth. Even other island's had passed on their own concerns about the raids."

As the weeks of Draconian fighting began to wear thing few understood the reason behind it. With his Leviathan in drydock recieving repairs the Captain had been land locked for almost two weeks are the fighting continued against the Draconians. Instead of taking another command he'd taken advantage of the downtime to spend with Rachel. In a small ceremony they had finished the wedding that Kixeye had interupted unfortunately because of the troubled seas neither had been able to leave the island and have some quality time so Rachel had gone straight back to work.

With her pregnancy begining to show on her slight figure the Captain had begin to spend much of his time on land in her research complex doing his own paperwork in her office. Although Rachel had moaned about him involving himself in her world it did allow them both to spend time together. Tech "Captain" Owen was also a frequent visitor reporting on weapon tests to Rachel and snooping around for any new weapons tech found fighting the Draconians. When he came by he tended to stay for a coffee, if the Captain was there the three of them could spend an entire afternoon just talking getting nearly nothing done, although there was plenty to do. As well as the repairs to the Captain's Leviathan and a dozen other ships the near continious construction of new Sea Wolf and Leviathan-class vessels had hardly stopped.

On this occassion however Owen had entered the office to find the Captain sitting at the desk doing paperwork while Rachel was pulling apart some piece of damaged equipment. "Owen, coffee?" the Captain had greeted before hearing Rachel clear her throat behind him "sorry, would you like some of Rachel's coffee?" He said seeing her mock annoyance playing on her facial features "what?" He asked playfully Rachel just shook her head and got back to work.

"Not today Captain" Owen stated "I have something for you" he said winking towards Rachel "both of you."

"It's ready?" Rachel asked knowingly

"Indeed" Owen said "Com'on Captain, this you have to see with eyes open." Owen said opening the door again.

"If you know something you are coming." The Captain said looking over at Rachel she smiled thumped down her piece of equipment offering her hand, pulling himself off the chair into her grasp they followed Owen down from the research labs to the shipyard. At one of the smaller piers normally reserved for Marauders or Longships was berthed a strange looking small ship.

As he closed on the craft the Captain had a proper look at the craft a blunted nose that led into the sea it had no discernable turrets. Almost directly behind the nose was a pair of short fins that like the nose curved downwards towards the sea and alongside them a small control tower. The thin hull curved away from the control tower aft back into the sea before a rear fin that stood directly out of the sea. "A courier craft?"

"Not quite we should go aboard." Owen said leading the way behind him the Captain and Rachel followed moving quickly up to the top of the control tower. The area open to the air was quite spartan with no real controls just a couple of monitors. Ahead of the ship a single Marauder sat ready to act as a pilot ship to guide them clear.

"I'll let you play" Rachel said squeezing herself down through the tower into the ship. Moments later the ship began to move forward cutting loose from the dock following the Marauder to sea travelling down the island's thin channel. As they headed away from the island a siren sounded throughout the ship before the bow of the craft began to be covered by more and more water.

"Time to go below Captain" Owen said smiling "below the seas" he continued entering the hatch Rachel had decended through.

"No way..." the Captain whispered looking over the edge of the control tower seeing water cover the rest of the hull and steadily climb the hull. "This is somthing I have to see." The captain said smiling climbing through the hatch closing it behind him before water covered the tower.

"Allow me to introduce Commander Briggs Myers" Rachel said introducing a short thin red headed man, he looked little over twenty-five years old.

"It's an honour sir." Briggs said saluting smartly

"The pleasure is mine Commander, quite a ship you have here."

"It's a boat Captain, we're calling it an Underwater Boat like they did over a hundred years ago." The Commander said "we can stay underwater for nearly thirty minutes at a time before raising to snorkel depth for five minutes to clear atmosphere. Unfortunately in our efforts to recover some of the technology we have lost we have yet to perfect the technology." The Commander explained the Captain looked around the circular room with an enterance either end of the room, there was a console either side of the forward door with a crewmen controlling the craft. Around either side of the room other crewmen controlled the engines, sonar, radio communications and what appeared to be weapons.

"It may be experimental but it is very impressive Commander, weapons? I assume we are not out here for show?"

"Two Havoc class-I torpedoes Captain" Owen said "found them in Kixeye's little date packet they left with you, nice little beasts. We've got research and development working on bigger versions, maybe for the next Predator-class boat Capt'n" Owen said confidently already planning the future of the class.

"I like it, how stealthy are we?"

"Unless someone actually has active sonar looking for us we could come right alongside any other ship and they would never know we were there." The Commander said confidently.

"Willing to make a bet of that?" The Captain challenged the Commander nodded "I know for a fact that Captain Glyn has a fleet out in the bay mining oil at one of the disused platforms, the Captain owes me a bottle of his best moonshine after our last game of cards, my ship is not at sea and he expects me to collect the next time he's in the area. Now knowing Glyn he likes to protect what he has and I likely won't see it until next year so what do you think, get us close enough to rattle the door?"

"We can certainly try Captain." The Commander said confidently "Helm make course 25 North-North-East, speed eight knots. Sonar scan for Captain Glyn's ships probably barges if they are mining, we should have their signatures in records from other ships." From around the compact command centre there was a series of "Ayes" as the ship began to move on its own.

"The Marauder will shadow us at a couple of miles just to make sure things don't get out of hand." Owen promised quietly. Several hours later the boat was in deep water another drawback of the design was it was not capable of travelling deep under the sea because of its limited under sea capabilities diving deeper than one hundred metres was not advised. Spending too much time underwater could potentially gas the crew as the battaries ran out of power and the gas turbine was forced to take over. Diving deeper than this was not required however as more than thirty metres would allow it to pass under almost any other ship in the sea and without sonar no-one would ever see them.

"Captain Glyn's ships detected Captain, a single Leviathan leading four Battle Barges, all four Barges are docked with the Oil Rig, the Leviathan is acting as security." The sensor officer reported as they closed on the oil rig.

"Glyn's flagship has five ripper cannons" the Captain said "when we surface for the last time, pass information to the Marauder to hail Glyn and make sure those cannons don't get turned on us by accident." The Captain ordered just being on the safe side.

"We'll surface next inside Glyn's rader Capt'n best to let the Commander here do his job" Owen prodded the Captain nodded and moved to beside Owen and Rachel at the rear of the bridge.

"Helm come to port, 237 degrees stabalizing thrusters to maximum. Range to target."

"Twenty-nine-point-four metres Captain" the sonar operator reported as the Predator began to turn sideways under the ocean.

"Very good lateral movement to starboard, six second burst on my mark." The Commander said quietly "mark" he said the the strangest sensation moved through the boat as the vessel moved sideways to port the deck remained perfectly level however everyone leaned in the direction of the movement. "Blow ballast tanks one, two and three" the Commander ordered moments later the ship was filled with the sensation of raising. The Commander raised on the ladder leading from the control room "prepare for fresh air, cracking the hatch." He announced as the hatch openned a little water came down the ladder but not enough to be considered with. The Captain followed the Commander up the ladder into the control tower.

On the surface the Captain joined Commander Myer looking straight at five high calibre Ripper Machine Gun Cannons, the Predator was less than ten metres from the massive Leviathan, almost diminutive compared to the mighty craft. "Captain Glyn please?" The Captain shouted to the stunned observers.

"Captain, what have you got there then?" Glyn shouted back down moments later from his bridge observation platform.

"My new toy Captain, I believe you owe me something?"

"Indeed Captain, and Captain, I think I want one of your new toys for myself."

"Perhaps for more of that famous Moonshine" the Captain replied laughing, Glyn's own laughter crossed the gulf between the two ships. The Captain was very happy he'd left his paper work for this little something Owen had come up with an interesting "toy" to be sure. He'd have to wait to see it in combat but today's test was quite impressive in its own?