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General BattleTech => Alternate Universe => Topic started by: Blacknova on May 16, 2014, 08:45:39 AM

Title: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on May 16, 2014, 08:45:39 AM

Of Wolves and Falcons

-1-
11th of July, 3062
Tamar, Clan Wolf Occupation Zone

saKhan Marthe Pryde strode after her Khan down the halls behind the audience chamber, where her freshly dispatched opponent was likely being removed and the mess he left cleaned.  Her body still hummed with the after effects of close combat and her senses were still afire and highly attuned to all around her.  This was likely the reason that her new uniform felt like it was chafing.  Despite the outfit’s well cut shape, it was far closer fitting than what she traditionally wore, though its intent was to accentuate the user’s physique.  Nevertheless, Wolf Clan leathers would still take some getting used to, especially as Marthe would now be required to wear them more often than previously.

On reaching his chambers, Khan Phelan Kell strode into the antechamber and then turned left into his receiving room.  The clutter in both rooms astounded the former Falcon Warrior, as most Jade Falcons kept somewhat spartan quarters and accumulated few personal possessions.  The Wolf Khan, a freeborn former Inner Sphere native, had vastly different cultural roots and they showed in the dizzying array of pictures, artefacts, furniture and accumulated clutter.  The whole scene astounded the staid saKhan and threw her slightly off balance.  How can a mind so keen exist within a place so disordered?

Phelan Kell, Khan of Clan Wolf, gestured to a couch that looked older than the Star League for Marthe to sit in and began rummaging in a small fridge.  A triumphant “Huzzah” came from the fridge, followed by the Khan turning and tossing a beer to his newly installed saKhan.  Phelan twisted the top from his beer, indicating for Marthe to do the same and she did so, noticing that the brew at hand was called Chirmay Rouge, one she had never heard of.

“I thought celebrating with one of Terra’s finest would be suitable for this occasion,” Phelan said as he raised his beer in a salute, “It’s not every day you see your saKhan slay an old foe to prevent his rising to the same position.  Farewell Vlad.”  Phelan took a long drink, which Marthe did not reciprocate, stunned that she was holding a drink made on Terra.

“It will not bite Marthe.” The Khan needled with a light tone in his voice.

She looked up, nodded and took a swig from the bottle that rewarded her with a deep and rich flavour.  Whilst Marthe savoured the beer, Phelan sat opposite her and crossed his legs as he leant back into an equally battered, but obviously comfortable green couch.

“This has been quite a day for you saKhan Pryde quiaff?”

“Aff.  A day of surprises.”  She looked hard at her Khan, “I have some questions though.”

Phelan nodded, “I assumed you would.  You wish to know why I nominated you?”

Marthe nodded herself, “There were many more suitable candidates…from a Wolf point of view.”

Phelan’s eyes narrowed, “We are all Wolves now Marthe, though there are some who might think otherwise, they are gracing the Exodus Road as its garrison,” he paused, “along with a few old Wolves who did not get the message.”

Marthe leaned back, placed her beer on a side table and shook her head, “There are more in this Clan than you seem to think who would not decry a return to the old status quo.”

Phelan shrugged and smiled “I have no doubt, but with every passing day there are more reasons to go forward than back, you being one of them.”

His comment caught Marthe off guard, something that her Khan was becoming far too good at. “So you accept what is happening and see me as the solution?”

“No.”

“No?”

“No Marthe, I do not accept that our new Clan should pull itself apart, not after five years of hard work in bringing us together as the most powerful in the history of all the Clans.  That is why I nominated you for the post of saKhan.  You represent something that we can all aspire to.”

Marthe did not think the Wolf Kahn had the right of the matter, but pushed on regardless, “What we can aspire to?  Khan Kell, I have been doing nothing of note since I was placed in command of Vau Galaxy in 3059.”  Vau Galaxy was the only Falcon Galaxy to carry over from the now absorbed Jade Falcons, something that Khan Kell had been very specific about seeing done.  Containing the now much modified former Turkina Keshik, Falcon Guards, the 1st and 2nd Jaegers and 1st Hussars, the Galaxy was the sought after posting of many reactivated Abthaka Falcons.  Marthe had spent the past three years flogging the Galaxy into shape, in order to make it conform to the new standards and doctrine that the Wolves practiced, as she was Wolf now, and had largely accepted that fact once the idiocy of her former Clan’s Khans had become apparent.  Khan Critchell’s call that the Refusal War was a Trial of Absorption was accepted by the Grand Council and then blew up in his face when Kell landed on Wotan and crushed the remaining Flacons there after finishing on Morges.  Such hubris would be the last words in the Falcon Remembrance and a poor note for centuries of glory to end on.  Some aspects of being a Wolf still grated at her, the treatment of former Falcon territory prime amongst them; however, she knew necessity when she saw it and she admired Khan Kell’s audacity.  It was with that in mid that Vau became the equal of any Galaxy in the expanded Wolf Clan, though she wished to be the best and was only stymied by the 2nd Jaegers, who failed to adapt to life as Wolves like her other Warriors had.  This was doubly disappointing for her, as the 2nd Jaegers was her former command, however, she took the best Warriors from the 2nd and tried to start again with new sibko graduates, a process that had only recently begun.

Kell chuckled, “Marthe, you have turned Vau into a killing machine that is more Wolf than any Wolf Galaxy before the Refusal War.  You embarrassed Beta Galaxy only last month and all but Gamma have tasted defeat at your hands.  I will relish the opportunity to test Alpha against you soon, however, that is beside the point, it is how you have done it that is important.  You have become a Wolf, much as you still think yourself a Falcon and both Wolves and former Falcons respond to this, for you accomplished it without giving up anything that makes you who you are.  You are the example for both Wolves and former Falcons to follow along our new joint path, as you point the way to our shared future.”

Marthe snorted, “You think it will be that easy?”

Phelan shook his head, “Not at all, but with you here, it will be all the easier for it.  Now to the matter for which I brought you here.  I have been told that you had very little time for the monthly briefings all Galaxy Commanders were provided on the strategic situation?”

“I was focused on other matters.”

Phelan smiled, “To all our benefit, however, as saKhan you need to be brought up to speed.  I will go over the salient points with you and Loremaster Kerensky will ensure that you are provided with all the details necessary over the coming days to fill in the gaps.”

Very well then, here begins my journey back to the world.  I suppose I have no more excuses for not taking note of the wider happenings of the Occupation Zones, but I am not sure, even now that I have become a Wolf, to want to have to rely on spies and informants as the basis for my glory. “Khan Kell.” Marthe responded, “I am at your disposal.”

Phelan bowed his head slightly in response, “Very well then.  As you are aware, when Clan Wolf absorbed Clan Jade Falcon, we were in a precarious position.  Both Toumans in the Inner Sphere were at half strength at best and we were in possession of 136 systems.  There was no feasible way to try and hold all of that territory without inviting both the Vipers and Bears to tear huge pieces out of both the Occupation Zone and what remained of the Touman.  That is why I ordered the consolidation of our forces to cover 100 worlds, which included just twelve from the former Jade Falcon OZ.”

Marthe had leaned forward as Khan Kell spoke, “This I know, but from what I have seen of your actions and motivations tonight, there was more to what you did, quiaff?”

Phelan smiled, “Aff saKhan Pryde.  To forestall the Vipers and allow us to redeploy to ensure the Ghost Bears stayed in their den, I contacted Khan Zalman and offered him the Jade Falcon OZ, minus twelve worlds along the Wolf border and supplies and replacement Mechs.  His haste to agree was unseemly and his materials gave us provided the edge we needed to hold of the building raids from the Bears, Cats and Jaguars and that particularly heavy Diamond Shark assault you repelled from Kirchbach.”

Marthe chuckled and stretched with joy, “That was truly a pleasure.”  Still in command of the 2nd Falcon Jaegers, then recently renamed the 2nd Wolf Jaegers, Star Colonel Marthe Pryde had virtually annihilated the opportunistic Diamond Shark 21st Strike Cluster.

Phelan raised his beer in salute again, “I’m sure it was.”  His use of a contraction took Marthe back slightly, but he continued on, “With the Vipers getting their house in order, they could not be everywhere at once and Natasha Kerensky had left such chaos in her wake that their job would not be an easy one.  I made sure to make it more difficult still.”

Marthe cocked an eyebrow as a thought struck her, “You communicated with the Federated Commonwealth?” Her question almost came as an accusation.

“No, I communicated with my father in the ARDC.  He passed on what I told him to Prince Victor and the little general took it from there.  I must admit, his actions were surprising, but they certainly took the wind out of old Kat’s sails and not a moment too soon, as she was becoming a little too comfortable on Tharkad.  Little Prince Victor sent five RCT’s, three Mercenary Regiments and three ComStar Divisions, all transported by ComStar, into the Coreward Falcon OZ.  It was all planned on the fly, but he managed to seize six Lyran and four periphery worlds and drive off a Viper counter-attack on Somerset, Anywhere and Lackhove, though the AFFC was forced to fall back off Blackjack, Beta VII, Golandrinas and Malibu, those four worlds being too much to hold past the initial ten taken.  However, his true stroke of genius was to gift all ten worlds to the Lyran Alliance and then withdraw the task force back into the ARDC. This forced Katherine to acknowledge his actions and scramble to get Lyran troops in place to hold those worlds, preventing any strike on Arc Royal or the ARDC.  The raiding back and forth with the Vipers and the fighting on several worlds further distracted Clan Steel Viper and kept the Lyran Alliance from raiding into the Wolf OZ.”

Marthe shook her head in disbelief, “You tread a fine line Khan Kell.  The information you shared could be considered treasonous.”

“How? As Khan, I can communicate what I want about the Clan to who I want and I doubt there would be few Wolves who would not support my decision.  There are those in the Grand Council who might call for a Trial of Grievance, but that is as far as it would progress.”

Marthe though again, He may well be right.  Even wounded the Wolf was powerful and the actions of the Federated Commonwealth could be seen as merely opportunistic.  Ulric’s pup this one no longer is.  “Some might say you are behaving like a Mongoose.”

Phelan tossed back the remainder of his beer before answering, “Good, as we need every tool and weapon we can get our hands on.  What do you know of my actions in the Homeworlds?”

Marthe grimaced, thinking on the former Falcons holdings at the far end of the Exodus Road and what was left and lost there. “I ignored it, I had other issues at hand.”

“As painful as it was Marthe, it was a brutal necessity. As the Grand Council bickered and dithered, I moved quickly.  Every former Falcons world had WarShips or WarShip Stars placed in close orbit and we began stripping each enclave of military, industrial and scientific resources.  With the Falcon merchant fleet added to ours, I was able to strip the Falcon enclaves in twelve months, supporting the defence of those worlds with troops from Clans Coyote, Goliath Scorpion and Burrock, who would take control of the best of what remained when we departed.  At that point, I left the parts of each world not bequeathed to Wolf allies open and the other Clans descended in a feeding frenzy.”

Marthe was becoming more used to the ability for Phelan Kell to surprise her with his ability to manipulate the Clans. “You turned the Falcon Homeworlds into one huge distraction for the Clans to fight over?”

“Yes.” So much was contained in that one word:  The Khan’s acceptance of his role in a Clan wide bloodbath, his acknowledgement of his manipulation of Clan lore and custom and his willingness to do it again.

Marthe, thought for a moment, “This would explain the cooling of relations with some of our allies.”

Phelan nodded, “Yes it does, but we had little choice.  They helped defend that what we could not and gained from it, but the madness of the other clans left a bitter taste in their mouths following the Trial Wars.”

“You accept the loss of part of their faith in the Wolf?” asked Marthe.

“I do saKhan Pryde.  There is an old saying that people have friends and nations have interests and in this case Clan Wolf’s immediate interest was to consolidate what we held.  War within the Clans distracting them from our plans suited this purpose.”

“Khan Kell, I am not sure I wish to serve as a saKhan when you order such actions.” Marthe’s voice was cold as stone.

“You won’t Marthe.  You will command the Touman as I direct the Clan.  I understand your distaste for my tactics, but without them, the legacy of both the Falcons and Wolves will be lost.  Is that something you desire?”  Phelan’s tone was just as hard.

Marthe shook her head, “No, but there must be another way.”

“Where is this way Marthe,” Phelan raised his hands in question, “I have looked, as have many others, but we are a target, more so than ever before.  The Inner Sphere fears us. Clan Steel Viper feels cheated for the ongoing brush war they face and the other invading clans are leery of our plans and strength.  The Homeworld Crusaders despise us for our success and the Wardens grow mistrustful over the Falcon influence now in the heart of the Wolf. Though I may have brought our Clan victory, I may well have dammed the Wolves.  However, any path would have led to this or worse, so perhaps I am simply at blame by association, not so much to blame.  Additionally, other courses may have led to our ruin, though that is a counterfactual argument for another day.”

Marthe nodded her head ever so slightly, “I remain deeply uncomfortable Khan Kell.”

“I will not ask you to compromise your honour and I will deeply value your honour at my side.  Though I am sphere born, I do value the honour of true Clansmen, and that it what you are saKhan Pryde, one of the truest Clansmen of the Wolves.”  He paused for a moment, “Should I continue?”

“Aff.”

“Very well then.  With the other Clans battling for the spoils in the Homeworlds, the announcement of the departure of the Ghost Bears only added fuel to the fire.  By the time the dust settled, the Ice Hellions and Hell’s Horses had established outposts on the Lyran periphery, the Vipers had finally quelled their own OZ and the Bears had settled in.  The Cats and Jaguars stayed out of the fighting and managed to build in strength.  Through all of this, the Falcon industrial infrastructure was brought forward into the Wolf OZ, so we now have a strong industrial base both here and in the Homeworlds.  The last convoy from Ironhold arrived over Kirchbach a week ago and will be operational by the end of the year.  With our Touman at full strength, in numbers, if not in quality, we can start laying stores for whatever will come next.”

“Do you have information on the Inner Sphere as well?”  Likely from your father, but despite myself I grow interested in your tales.

Phelan stood and walked to the fridge and took another beer from it. “Another Marthe?”

Marthe realised she had hardly touched her first and shook her head, whilst reaching for it.

As Phelan returned to his seat, he continued. “When the Free Worlds League and Capellan Confederation invaded the Federated Commonwealth’s Sarna March, all hell broke loose.  Katherine Steiner-Davion withdrew the Lyran realm from the FC Alliance and everyone fought for the scraps.   The League and the Capellans gained much, but with the Vipers and Wolves in no state to cause trouble, Prince Victor was able to marshal enough force to stabilise much of the former Sarna March.  He was even able to assist LAAF forces in the Lyons Thumb face down the Combine, holding all but Lambrecht and Moore, but securing Alphecca and Skondia, gaining much respect in Skye in the process.”

Marthe interjected, “More scavenger lord bickering over the bones of the Hegemony.”

“Yes, but the reasons for it suit our Clan.  Victor reformed the remains of the Sarna March as a new Terran March and despite the loss of 29 worlds to the Capellans and 20 to the League, he was able to keep a narrow Terran Corridor open.  By the end of 3059, the Federated Commonwealth and Lyran Alliance had stabilised their positions, but lost the St. Ives Compact as an ally.  The actions of both CCAF and AFFC troops in the Terran March sickened Candace Liao and she instituted a coup on Sian, took power and reintegrated St. Ives into the Confederation.  From what I have been able to learn, Candace and Victor had a major falling out and she now stands opposed to Prince Victor.”

Phelan paused, but Marthe said nothing, so he continued. “During the beginning of the Free Worlds and Capellan attacks, the Word of Blake struck at Terra, but ended there after over a year of fighting destroyed it and much of the ComGuard.  Anastasias Focht was able to bring in many more troops due to the issues within the Clans, but so did the Word of Blake, but from where no one knows yet.  The ComStar strike on Gibson may have ended the Word of Blake as an organised body, but the Free Worlds Navy reprisal strike at Titan cost the ComGuards much of their remaining naval strength and Ansastasius Focht, who was present at the time.  The ComGuards are now little more than peacekeepers for hire, broken in numbers and lacking in morale after losing so much over the course of just ten years.”

Marthe shrugged, “Dogged foes on Tukayyid, their religious war was a stupidity of the first order.”

Phelan nodded, “Not to them, but such things are always important to the believer.  Oh, and I forgot to mention, towards the end of the fighting in the former Sarna March, the League also struck at the Lyrans Anti-Spinward of Bolan.  They claimed eleven worlds, which was devastating to Katherine Steiner-Davion.  Her brother had protected Lyran worlds from the Vipers and Combine and taken others, yet on her own, she could not defend the realm.  This was where her power base began to unravel, as those who supported her began to see that they might have backed the wrong sibling, especially in military circles.”

“This does not seem to bother you so much?” Marthe had noted several times at the tones Phelan used when talking about either Victor or Katherine. 

Phelan smiled broadly, “No it does not.  Victor and I had our problems once, long ago and he made some colossal mistakes early on, but since 3057, he has come into his own.  He is more decisive and far more ruthless than what I thought him capable.  I don’t know where he got his new drive from, but I suspect it was from the information that pinned Melissa Steiner’s death on his sister.”

“I will never understand Inner Sphere families.”  Marthe rolled her eyes.

“Combine the Blood Spirits fanaticism with the Snow Ravens politicking and you will get close.  However, with the Lyran state and more importantly its military starting, to slip away from Katherine, Victor played a rather bold card.  Victor led a combined Federated/Lyran task force from Tikonov, rendezvoused with troops out of Arc Royal and descended on Tharkad in force.  Katherine was taken completely by surprise and the battle was short.  From there, a trial and swift execution ended her time on the throne and gave Victor power back over the entire Federated Commonwealth.  However, this is where he showed his maturity with the Victor Proclamation, as it has come to be known.  He declared that the Federated Commonwealth would again reform, however, he ensured that both nations would be protected from abuses of power in one or the other and that certain traditions, ways and functions would remain sacrosanct.  Additionally, he limited his own power.  The regent in either realm could oppose a directive of the Archon-Prince, which would place the directive before the Estates General or a similar body in the Federated Suns for approval or disapproval.  Much was cosmetic, but with the Clan threat renewed along much of the Lyran periphery, the League and the Combine aggressive again and the evidence against Katherine so damming and painting her supporters in a dim light, the Lyran realm returned to the fold of the Federated Commonwealth and much opposition evaporated.”

Marthe stood and began to walk around the room, looking at, but not taking in the various items scattered across it.  “Where does all this information leave us?”

“In exactly the same place as the Federated Commonwealth.” He held up a hand to forestall her reply, “Both Clan Wolf and the FC Alliance have come through a trial of fire, but in doing so have only underscored the threat each poses to their neighbours and even their allies.  The Inner Sphere fears the Steiner-Davion hegemony again under the Fox’s son and every Clan now sees Clan Wolf as an imminent threat, especially those whose territory lies near us.  Should fighting break out, every nations knows it will have to move on the FC when others do to maximise any chance of bring Victor to heal.  Likewise for Clan Wolf, when we go to war with one Clan, we must expect to go to war with many.”

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Shadow_Wraith on May 16, 2014, 09:44:03 AM

 ;D  WOW!  Hopefully you get time to update this story once in a while!  Other than that, I was very happy to read!

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: dgb11o6 on May 16, 2014, 10:26:43 AM

Nice read. Hopefully you add to this and make a short story out of it. I want to see a new Star League formed with the FC and Clan Wolf at the head.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on May 16, 2014, 03:53:55 PM

Quote from: Shadow_Wraith on May 16, 2014, 09:44:03 AM

;D  WOW!  Hopefully you get time to update this story once in a while!  Other than that, I was very happy to read!

Thanks.

I plan to update it semi-regularly.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on May 16, 2014, 03:55:00 PM

Quote from: dgb11o6 on May 16, 2014, 10:26:43 AM

Nice read. Hopefully you add to this and make a short story out of it. I want to see a new Star League formed with the FC and Clan Wolf at the head.

Thanks.  Not so sure about the Star League though.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Dragon Cat on May 16, 2014, 07:42:02 PM

Cool idea I'm guessing Phelan went for the Falcon throat during the Refusal War instead of scampering away under Ulrics order?  And if Phelan leans towards the Wardens or Crusaders

Not that it matters since I'm guessing he'd treat the Truce as more important than anything.  And with the Vipers looking vulnerable maybe they get the Chop instead of the Jags... The possibilities :)

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on May 16, 2014, 09:41:24 PM

Quote from: Dragon Cat on May 16, 2014, 07:42:02 PM

Cool idea I'm guessing Phelan went for the Falcon throat during the Refusal War instead of scampering away under Ulrics order?  And if Phelan leans towards the Wardens or Crusaders

Yeah, he went to Morges, and had second thoughts after toasting the Falcons.so he then went to Wotan and finished things.

Quote from: Dragon Cat on May 16, 2014, 07:42:02 PM

Not that it matters since I'm guessing he'd treat the Truce as more important than anything.  And with the Vipers looking vulnerable maybe they get the Chop instead of the Jags... The possibilities :)

There was no second Star League here, so there is not target painted on the Smoke Jaguars.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on May 17, 2014, 05:31:19 PM

Attached is a map for mid-3062 for reference.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Dragon Cat on May 17, 2014, 09:19:41 PM

Cool map as always looking good 8)

The Nova Cat OZ how I miss those days

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on May 17, 2014, 09:27:55 PM

Quote from: Dragon Cat on May 17, 2014, 09:19:41 PM

Cool map as always looking good 8)

The Nova Cat OZ how I miss those days

I am not sure if I'll save them or not, it's all up to them.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on May 20, 2014, 11:37:56 PM

Maps for the following Chapter.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: masterarminas on May 20, 2014, 11:49:42 PM

I dig it.  :)

MA

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on May 20, 2014, 11:50:47 PM

-2-
12th of July, 3062
CWS Werewolf
High Orbit, Tamar, Clan Wolf Occupation Zone

The Wolf Clan flagship, CWS Werewolf, a McKenna-class Battleship was quiet, sitting as it was in the orbital servicing yards above the planet Tamar.  saKhan Marthe Pryde had come here to use the vessel’s Holotank to review the data both Khan Kell and the Wolf Loremaster had provided and not be bothered whilst she did so.  Barely a fifth of the crew were aboard and most of those were in the engineering spaces or on the primary bridge, leaving her alone, bar the single technician who was endeavouring to become part of the bulkhead.

Marthe, far more comfortable in her Wolf Clan jumpsuit than she was in the previous day’s more formal attire, brought the holotank to life and began the process of accessing the data she required with various gestures and waves.

Before long, a map of the Inner Sphere flashed up in all its myriad colours and Marthe zoomed it into the top quadrant, where the wedge of worlds taken by the Clans lay.  On the left of the image were the border systems of the Federated Commonwealth.  The ominous problem there was Victor Steiner-Davion’s reestablishment of the Tamar March over the few systems left that once belonged to that region.  The statement was clear; Archon-Prince Victor intended to take back what was once his.  A noble goal Victor and one I can respect, however, if you do manage to defeat the Vipers, you will find our Clan an entirely different proposition.  Enjoy dealing with the Ice Hellions and Hell’s Horses as well.  Both Clans had established small outposts near the Lyran Commonwealth, however, Marthe ignored them for now, focusing on the Wolf Occupation Zone instead.

Moving her right arm to her upper right, Marthe tapped the Wolf Clan icon and then selected the icon for displaying the Touman.  Immediately a list of Clusters and WarShips appeared, with each item linking to a world on the map behind the list.  Strong, but not strong enough, Marthe thought, had we merged both Clans at full strength, we would have over 100 Clusters. We have only 80 now.  However, Khan Kell’s decision to vacate Falcon holdings is borne out by those numbers.  It will take us years to regain that lost strength.  Marthe sighed bitterly and spoke aloud, “With our depots at less than 30% capacity, I won’t be forming new Clusters anytime soon either.” 

The technician looked up briefly and then buried his head in his work again.  Marthe also found the deployment of Wolf troops interesting and something she would take some getting used too.  Instead of the free flowing nature of Clan deployments, Khan Kell had broken up the Occupation Zone into five zones, Alpha through Epsilon.  Two Galaxies were assigned to each zone, one Front Line and one Second Line, as well as a Star of WarShips.  Alpha Zone was slightly different, with two Front Line Galaxies, Alpha and Vau, as the mobile reserve, supported by two WarShip Stars.  This comes from his days in the Federated Commonwealth, but looks more like the Lyran system of Theatres.  I wonder just how useful it will be and whether our troops will grow restless if tied to one area constantly?

Marthe looked across the deployment of Wolf troops and that of the other Clans.  We need more troops in the occupation zone.  She glanced at the listing of forces in the Homeworlds, two Frontline and three Second Line Galaxies were stationed there. I need one of each.  She thought again, All of the Khan’s transport flotillas are now back in, or close to the Homeworlds, but not disbanded.  Maybe I can get those troops, especially if he plans to bring forward more industry and civilians.  He has not mentioned anything to the Clan Council, but if that is his plan, he better do so quickly.  It was a not an entirely unfounded line of thinking, as Khan Kell had already moved half of the Clan’s industry to the Inner Sphere.  The Bears have set the example and strategically it makes sense.  We cannot be in two places at once and if we bring what is valuable to us forward, we loose little and concentrate our strength.  Marthe made a note to speak with her Khan and then continued on with her work.

Marthe’s eyes scrolled down the listing until she reached the Clan war fleet.  At least there is nothing to worry about there.  The merged fleets of Clan Wolf and Jade Falcon were now the largest in the Clans, with forty-two vessels, the majority of them cruisers or larger.  There is one fact giving the Snow Raven’s complete fits, Marthe thought happily.  Though she had little interest in naval combat, the fleet was proving to be an invaluable asset in preventing other Clans from preying on Wolf weaknesses.  Additionally, the need for more escorts had seen Khan Kell commission a new Corvette design, the Drake, a powerful little vessel designed to supplement and then replace the outdated Vincent-class Corvettes currently in use by the Clan.  Much as I want those resources for the ground arm, I must admit, the Drake will be a valuable addition and keep pace with Snow Raven building efforts. Marthe smiled again as she pictured the chaos of the Snow Raven Lum yards, as several new WarShips were undergoing crash-building programs to try to regain their naval supremacy.  The cost in resources might just break them and let us sweep in and pick up the pieces.  Though she had long sought the Raven’s demise, she never thought it would be due to a naval construction race.  Still, we have to wait until 3063 to see just how good these little ships are.  Despite being relatively small, the Drake-class still weighed in at 375,000 tons and carried advanced armour and weapons, making building one a challenge.

Marthe killed the list with a gesture and let her eyes drift to the left over the Steel Viper Occupation Zone and its thirty six worlds.  Lucky Khan Zalman and his cranky little Clan!  That Khan Kell had left the facilities on Sudeten and Erewhon in Viper hands galled her.  The production there, coupled with the material the Vipers brought forward from the Homeworlds had allowed them to raise two new Galaxies, through in reality the additions only amounted to seven clusters.  That the Vipers had lost Erewhon and its facilities to the Federated Commonwealth further confirmed Marthe’s opinion of that Clan and its abilities.  At least they transferred their dislike of the Falcons to Clan Wolf.  There will be plenty of time to settle old scores on that border.

Marthe called up another file with several gestures, this one bearing the seal of the Clan Wolf watch.  Though never a fan of the Watch, Marthe knew this information, as with the other information on the invading Clans, had been earned very recently through honourable channels.  Khan Kell had sent out the best Stars in the Clan to engage each Clan in the Inner Sphere and Trial for complete force and asset listings.  Most Clans thought Trialling for such information beneath a Warrior and so the Clan gained the information cheaply.  Only the Ghost Bears and Nova Cats had fought hard, but both had lost regardless. 
The file displayed the Steel Viper Touman in a manner similar to that of Clan Wolf that she had just read.  54 Clusters, 40 in the Inner Sphere, with only ten WarShips in support.  We may well be spread thin Khan Zalman, but you face the Federated Commonwealth and have the Ice Hellions sniffing around.  Marthe took a deep sense of satisfaction from the Viper’s strategic position, but knew that they were still tenacious Warriors and would be able to continue to increase in strength if left unchallenged.  Your greatest weakness is the threat that the Federated Commonwealth and Ice Hellions pose to your supply lines.  Still, your Clan does know how to fight, Marthe had to grudgingly admit to herself, and there is industry for the taking close to your border.  I would strike for Coventry myself, but I don’t think you have that in you Khan Zalman.

Marthe then shifted her gaze to the Ghost Bears and paused, Much strength, but no strategic depth, that I expect will be something the Bear Khans will seek to remedy, but who will they move against: The Cat Clans or the our own Occupation Zone?  Clan Ghost Bear’s data showed that within the Inner Sphere was concentrated all but a tiny fraction of their military strength, fifty-five Clusters and Fifteen WarShips.  Technically, you outnumber me Khan Jorgensson, but you have only two Clusters you can call forward, I have thirty.  Every industrial world you control, bar one, is within striking distance of my troops.  You needs take action soon, or your success of late will end.

Marthe’s eye caught on a Cluster name – the 1st Rasalhague Bears – and stopped.  Interesting gambit that one and you may force my hand with it.  Clan Ghost Bear sought to better integrate itself with its Inner Sphere population and the Rasalhague Bears, led by the son of the Elected Prince of Rasalhague, was the showpiece of this effort.  Despite the fact that only nineteen of the seventy-five worlds taken from Rasalhague were controlled by the Ghost Bears, the Bear Khans were endeavouring to set themselves up as the successors to that state’s past.  We hold fifty-six of their worlds and when word reaches them of your words and efforts Khan Jorgensson, there will be trouble right across our zone.  However, with our Sibkos stripped for our recent rebuilding and some time from reaching full capacity again, you may have shown me the way to rebuild several Clusters of troops.  Marthe thought for a second longer, then said aloud “The Rasalhague Wolves, unoriginal I’ll grant you, but with several Clusters of native troops in the Wolf Touman, your gambit to destabilise us would fail.”

Finished with the Ghost Bears, Marthe turned to the right, to view the mixed Nova Cat and Smoke Jaguar Occupation Zone.  Time one of you dealt with the other, something the Nova Cats seem more inclined to do in the short term, if Avon and Caripare are not isolated incidents.  Only three months ago, Nova Cat forces on both worlds had driven the Smoke Jaguars from their shared enclaves on the two worlds, with the Smoke Jaguars not responding yet.  They must be going mad under their new Khan.  Not the typical Jaguar are you Khan Howell?  Brandon Howell had killed Khan Lincoln Osis in a Circle of Equals two years previously and began a program of sorting out the mess that was the Jaguar Occupation Zone.  With the quelling of civilian resistance, the Jaguars had been able to regain much strength, as had the Nova Cats, hence why Marthe thought that a showdown between the two could not be far off.  Foe’s for too many centuries for a shared zone to work, much like what the Vipers and Falcons once experienced.  Marthe chuckled.  Ulric’s hand still at work from beyond the grave. Much as she opposed the man whilst a Falcon, she did respect his ability to accomplish his goals, despite the odds stacked against him.

An interesting balance of power there, thirty-eight Nova Cat Clusters to forty-four Smoke Jaguar, however, the Nova Cat fleet outnumbers the Jaguar fleet twenty-five to eighteen, though it is out massed by the Jaguars. An old lesson of history came back to Marthe.  This force correlation looks like the Smoke Jaguars and the Mongooses, just with more Clusters.  I can’t see one of the two absorbing the other, but the victor will stand second only to the Wolves in power if one is ejected from the Inner Sphere.  They will have to be careful though, the Draconis Combine has forty-odd regiments along the border and I am assuming they will not hesitate in taking back what was lost a decade ago.

Turning to the left, Marthe took in the small Ice Hellion and Hell’s Horses Occupation Zones and snorted, “Occupation Zones in name only.”  The two small enclaves were not of immediate threat to Clan Wolf.  The nearer, that of Clan Ice Hellion, encompassed the Chainlaine Isles, which Clan Jade Falcon had largely ignored after one lop sided battle there in 3049.  The Hellions held the seven systems of the Chain Cluster, plus another nine, though with only six Clusters, they posed only a minimal threat to anyone.  If there is an overextended Clan that needs to get out of the Homeworlds, the Hellions are it.

Further anti-Spinward lay the Hell’s Horses Occupation Zone, an interesting little enclave built on two pirate haven worlds and three other former Rim Worlds Republic systems that the Horses had breathed life into.  The Horse zone played host to just seven Clusters, but it was the naval force there that was most interesting.  Five transport WarShips, three of them Potemkins, fully loaded at that.  You are here for the long haul and this is just your first delivery Khan Fletcher.  You might be a lackey of the Wolf, but you certainly learn the lessons taught.  The Hell’s Horses Occupation Zone was well supplied and well-defended, but not a real offensive threat as yet.

In fact, neither zone was a threat to Marthe’s eyes, despite the fact that both had given the Federated Commonwealth fits over a broadening Clan front.  The AFFC had scrambled to get troops in place when word arrived of the two Clan’s actions, with numerous RCT’s and other units deployed there, units that might otherwise have been used to take the war to Clan Steel Viper.  I suppose I can be thankful for that, Marthe thought, it gives me time to get the Wolf ready before we face the Federated Commonwealth again.

What was more ominous were the reports of two Diamond Shark Spina Galaxies prowling somewhere along the Exodus Road.  This clashed with the information coming from the Homeworlds, which stated that a Spina Galaxy was still present there.  Are these reports confused?  Have the Sharks raised another Galaxy or have they split their oversized Clusters to make their numbers appear larger?  This needs to be investigated, another six Clusters along the Periphery starts to make defending that region awkward and could tip the entire front into chaos.  Marthe made a note to have the Watch look into the issue as a matter of the highest priority.

Marthe’s thoughts were broken by the holotank.  “You have an update.  You have an update. You have an update…”  The incessant nagging of the brightly coloured and dancing Diamond Shark denoted an incoming data dump from the Chatterweb, something the infernal Diamond Sharks had managed to get up and running across much of the Occupation Zone.  Marthe, never a fan of the Sharks at the best of times, backhanded the pest of an icon.  Replacing the annoying little shark was an expanding view of the Nova Cat/Smoke Jaguar zone.  Twelve worlds were flashing red and yellow and lines, denoting troop movements, extended from numerous Nova Cat enclaves to those worlds. 

HA!  I was right.  The Cats have finally had enough of their neighbours, however, with so much force needed to hold down the Combine border, they are doing so with one hand tied behind their backs.  Still, they do have the advantage of surprise, which might be all they need…no, they don’t have the force to do this quickly.  Marthe looked harder at the forces involved, almost even in numbers on the worlds in question and not enough quality troops to win the fights quickly.  However, the Cats have pulled off risky moves in the past.  This will be interesting.

“Incoming communication.  Incoming communication. Incoming communication…” The little shark started dancing and hollering again.  “SHUT UP YOU SURAT!”  Marthe swung at the icon again and was rewarded for her efforts by the image of Khan Phelan Kell.  Marthe regathered herself quickly, “Khan Kell, I assume you are calling about the Nova Cats?”

Kell’s face was grim, “Yes, and other matters.  Tell me Marthe, what do you make of the Cat’s actions?”

Marthe recalled her thoughts from earlier and absentmindedly stretched her neck, cracking several vertebrae. “The Nova Cats need more troops in the opening assault, unless they have some advantage, other than surprise, which we don’t know about.  The Jaguars have the numbers and Khan Brandon Howell is no fool.  I see this bogging down and the Draconis Combine taking advantage.”

Kell nodded, but held up one finger, “I agree, but the Bears will take advantage as well.  They are the ace the Cat’s hold, they have to be, either openly or by default.”

Marthe’s hand stroked her jaw, “An alliance?”

“Possible,” returned Phelan, “they have been friends for years, but the Cats need not openly approach the Bears.  If the Jaguars are under pressure, the Bears can pick up systems cheaply and Schuyler is an important target.  More importantly, the Bears can pick off border systems and expand the depth of their Occupation Zone, something we know they need to do.  You understand what this means for us Marthe?”

Marthe answered too quickly, “We sit back and watch three Clans weaken themselves.”

“Neg.”
“Neg?” Marthe was unsure of where her Khan was going with his thinking.

“Neg Marthe.  We must attack the Bears.  Any advantage they take out of a Nova Cat/Smoke Jaguar war weakens our position, especially in the long term.

The Wolf saKhan stood up straighter, “I can lead such an assault Khan Kell, but I must warn you, I cannot launch an all-out war on Clan Ghost Bear and watch the Vipers at the same time.  I need more troops from the Homeworlds to cover the rear.”

Kell smiled, “I was sure you would ask for that.  Send orders to Eta and Nu Galaxies to move to the Occupation Zone immediately.”

Marthe cocked her head, “I would prefer Zeta and Iota.”

Phelan laughed loudly, tossing his head back, “So would I Marthe, but I have other jobs for them: you remember my convoys?”

Now it was Marthe’s turn to laugh, eliciting a surprised look from the Wolf Khan, who had never seen her show such emotion before.  “Khan Kell, I was only just thinking that you would bring more Wolf civilians and infrastructure forward from the Homeworlds.  Eta and Iota can cover the convoy and the better Galaxies left behind can fend off the other Clans should they think us weakened in the Homeworlds.”

Phelan nodded emphatically and pointed at Marthe, “That is why I wanted you as saKhan Marthe, you learn quickly and you can put two and two together more rapidly than most of our brethren.  Three of the convoys are over Eden at the moment, two are on the Exodus Road home and the sixth is already preparing to depart Kirchbach within the month.  By early next year, Eden will be home to few Wolves.  We will maintain an enclave and a Cluster there, but it will be out of respect for Nicholas Kerensky.  From there, we will do the same across all the Homeworlds.  I plan to take this to the Clan Council, but there will be little opposition, those at home will want to come forward and those here have seen the advantages of the Falcon infrastructure we have already installed.”

Marthe paused, “The other Clans will not tolerate a move like that accomplished by the Ghost Bears and ourselves again, and they will fight.”

Phelan frowned, “Correct again and it will get ugly.  I want to appoint a Homeworlds Commander to report directly to you, as you will be leading our actions against the Ghost Bears.  Who would be your choice?”

Marthe did not even have to think before answering, “Galaxy Commander Katya Kerensky.  She leads Zeta Galaxy and was Loremaster until you put her in Zeta.  Zeta is senior anyway, so there will be few issues from the other Commanders.”

“Make it so then saKhan.” Phelan looked down for a moment to something off screen.  “Marthe, I would advise moving the 7th Grenadiers forward to cover the loss of Vau’s Clusters from the Coreward section of the Occupation Zone.  We don’t need the other Clans getting adventurous, do we now?”

“Neg, Khan Kell.” Marthe would have done so even without her Khan’s orders.  “One other matter before I begin planning.”  Kell gestured for Marthe to continue.  “Will I be given leave to use all forces in the Gamma and Epsilon Zones?”

Phelan breathed in deeply before answering, “Neg Marthe.  You will use only those Clusters in Epsilon Zone and Vau Galaxy – fifteen Clusters, ten of those Front Line, and ten WarShips for escort.”
Marthe paused in shock, no doubt displayed on her face.  “You want me to take on the entire Clan Ghost Bear Touman with only fifteen Clusters?”

“Neg Marthe,” Phelan replied, “I want you to cut their Occupation Zone in half and hold what you can, but withdraw in the face of adverse odds.”

Adverse odds?  That was a given for such a campaign.  Marthe thought as she glanced at the map, now displayed by the holotank to the right of Khan Kell.  Trondheim and Last Frontier, those will be the key.  She finally responded, “You don’t want a full scale war, you just want Clan Ghost Bears to take notice of us and withdraw from the fighting with Clan Smoke Jaguar, Quiaff?

Phelan made a crooked half smile, “Aff Marthe and only if they do get involved and then after they engage the Jaguars, we don’t have the supplies for a prolonged general engagement with Clan Ghost Bear yet.”

“Aff, Khan Kell.” Marthe said with a slight bow of her head.  She understood clearly what was being asked.  You want to see if I can show patience and engage in an Inner Sphere style limited war.  This I can do, but I have no intention of letting go of systems I take.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Shadow_Wraith on May 21, 2014, 02:02:01 AM

Nice update!  I wonder if you have in this AU Diana, daugter of Aidan Pryde and will you include her if she is?   Other than that, its nice to see a blood bath with the invading clans and most of the homeworld clans for the most part just complaining.  Looking forward to more!
 

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on May 21, 2014, 02:24:51 AM

I do have plans for her, Horse and my all time favorite, Joanna.

Thanks

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Corsair_SG on May 21, 2014, 03:53:22 AM

Quote from: Blacknova on May 21, 2014, 02:24:51 AM

I do have plans for her, Horse and my all time favorite, Joanna.

Thanks

Joanna !!~!!, big time !!!

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on May 21, 2014, 03:55:00 AM

Joanna.  When you absolutely, positively have to abuse every last mother ****** in the room.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Knightmare on May 21, 2014, 08:19:07 AM

Good read here. Using Marthe's distractions as a way to update the universe's setting was a nice trick. Keep it coming Black, I'm hooked now.

 

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on May 22, 2014, 06:28:07 AM

Maps showing forces for all the states and Clans.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Knightmare on May 22, 2014, 02:19:23 PM

Great work as usual.

So Victor's efforts saved the old Sarna March, but allowed Liao to concentrate on seizing Sarna proper? I like the reorganization of the remaining FedCom worlds. Handing back all of the Sirian worlds to the Free Worlds League might have been a nearsighted mistake since their return will likely remove one domestic issue that's caused issues in the past. Hmm...I expect the remaining corridor worlds to see some serious military build up and construction over the next few years. That should bode well for the FedCom alliance and make a drive towards Terra akin to similar drives during the Jihad. Now is definitely a good time to invest in heavy construction firms.  :)

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on May 22, 2014, 03:54:51 PM

Victor did not hand the Sirian worlds to the Free Worlds.  See the timeline below.

Sep-57   Operation Guerro Begins. Lyran Alliance forms
Oct-57   LAAF forces clash with DCMS in Lyons Thumb.  AFFC sends in troops from Chaos March to shore up defences
Nov-57   
Dec-57   Operation Guerro Ends
Jan-58   
Feb-58   Word of Blak attacks Terra
Mar-58   
Apr-58   Lambrecht and Moore lost in Lyons Thumb, but AFFC takes and holds Skondia and Alphecca
May-58   Terra becomes a blood bath as C* and hidden WoB forces battle to death
Jun-58   Skye hails AFFC assitance as "saving Skye"
Jul-58   
Aug-58   
Sep-58   Operation SPARTACUS launched from FWL against LC and Chaos March
Oct-58   Katrina Steiner decalres war on FWL, but LAAF driven back from 11 worlds
Nov-58   CCAF drives forward on heals of SPARTACUS, taking more worlds in Op CANTON
Dec-58   AFFC strikes into Chaos March in strength through Operation AVALON
Jan-59   Operation SPARTACUS ends successfully after Siain and Saiph worlds taken.
Feb-59   Wolf's Dragoons work with AFFC to pacifiy Chaos March
Mar-59   Campaign for Terra ends. WoB destroyed and ComStar has only 24 Div and 18 WS
Apr-59   
May-59   Operation AVALON ends with Terran Corridor just held open
Jun-59   ComStar "cleanses" Gibson of WoB.
Jul-59   Due to the brutality of both sides in AVALON and CANTON Candace Liao offs Sun Tzu and claims the Chancellorship and rejoins the Confederation with St.Ives
Aug-59   Candace Liao proclaimed Chancellor of the Capellan Confederation
Sep-59   
Oct-59   FWLN Operation STARLING strike Terra in large naval battle. 8 C* vessels lost before FLWN withdraws

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on May 23, 2014, 07:31:35 AM

Maps to accompany the next chapter, which should be out sometime tomorrow.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Knightmare on May 23, 2014, 08:27:31 AM

Interesting. It still "feels" like Victor handed the Sirian worlds over, especially after the FWL's abortive strike against Terra. That would have been a good opportunity to nibble a world or two away from the League in the Terran Corridor. It would have benefited from a distracted League and ComStar's blessing.

I didn't see this answered, but if the militant arm of the WoB was destroyed on Terra a Gibson, what happened to control of the HPG network in the FWL and CC? If ComStar retook control of both regions, then the FWL's move against Terra was just plain DUMB. Given that the League did attack Terra, my guess is that some neutered vestige of the WoB still retains control of the network, albeit without the capacity to do any more damage? Otherwise, I would have expected a limited interdiction of the FWL during/after the Terran attack to allow the FedCom or even the CC to "punish" Thomas.

Speaking of which, is Thomas still running the FWL? I'm surprised his attack on Terra didn't force ComStar to "out" him to the rest of the Inner Sphere.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on May 23, 2014, 04:24:18 PM

The WoB remnants still control FWL HPGs but have been moved out of the CC. Victor was busy with other matters and a fight with the Legue was not on the cards at the time. The truth about Thomas is now known only to the WoB. Why, just because.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Takiro on May 23, 2014, 06:50:36 PM

What of the Sirian Lancers? Did the massacres in the Sirian Holds take place? Or was their conquest not placed on by Thomas? Otherwise I could see the Lancers joining the AFFC.

What of Northwind? Independent still? Conquered by the AFFC? Or did the DCMS move in and declare it a Protectorate?

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on May 23, 2014, 08:52:12 PM

What of the Sirian Lancers?

They are part of the FWLM still.

Did the massacres in the Sirian Holds take place? Or was their conquest not placed on by Thomas? Otherwise I could see the Lancers joining the AFFC.

Nope.  The retaking of the Sirian worlds was part of Operation SPARTACUS, a second drive into the Chaos March.

What of Northwind? Independent still? Conquered by the AFFC? Or did the DCMS move in and declare it a Protectorate?

Semi-Independent like before.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on May 23, 2014, 11:39:32 PM

-3-
19th of July, 3062
AFFC Command Centre,
Pandora, Tamar March, Federated Commonwealth

Morgan Hasek-Davion, Marshal of the Armies of the Federated Commonwealth (again), Duke of New Syrtis, watched the Archon-Prince closely as the other members of the AFFS High Command, and many other Generals, filed into the room and took their seats.  Though not the High Command’s usual place of meeting on Pandora, the banquet hall of the Duke of Pandora’s Summer Palace would serve well, if a little ostentatiously.  Lyrans and glitter, thought Morgan, though not derogatively.  The Lyran frame of mind took some getting used to, but he had long since learned that though they might be a little flighty and prone to ostentation, the citizens of the Lyran Commonwealth could be relied upon. 

The Marshal was watching Victor in the way he often did these days, with a well-concealed mixture of pride and disappointment.  He was proud at what Victor had accomplished, in reuniting the Federated Commonwealth and rising to challenge of his father’s legacy.  However, necessary though it had been, Morgan was disappointed that Victor had forced himself to let go of some of his high ideals.  He was so sure for so long, that honour and truth would carry the day and at times he made the rest of us believe it.  Katherine knocked that out of him, along with the mess in the Sarna March.  Morgan still thought of that region by its old name, not its new one.

The Terran March had been formed around the parts of the Sarna March that the AFFC held when fighting died down in that region, which did not include the former March Capital of Sarna.  The Capellan and Free Worlds assaults had managed to take over forty systems, but Victor had rallied his forces and fought back.  The Terran Corridor remained open through Victor’s efforts and with it the hope of reuniting the realm.  That is where you started to change.  Curatius’s information on who had killed your mother and that Kali inspired atrocity on New Aragon got to you.  After that, the League and Confederation were lucky to hold what they had and Katherine’s days were numbered.  Still, the public hanging was something you would never have even considered before then.

Katherine Steiner-Davion was now dead two years, taken down partly due to her own mistakes and partly due to Victor’s decisiveness.  Ah, Katherine, you thought that by changing your name and smiling, the masses would rally to you, but you forgot the need to protect them comes first.  Victor understood that and he made you look weak, firstly with the Steel Vipers, then with the Combine and the League.  Victor had planned and led the assault into the disintegrating Jade Falcon Occupation Zone and then gifted what he took back to the Lyran state.  By then facing down the DCMS in the Lyons Thumb and protecting Skye, he made valuable allies, all whilst saving the Sarna March from decending into complete chaos and re-establishing order there.  He then stood back and watched as Katherine mishandled relations with the Free Worlds League at lost eleven border systems.  By that stage, the Lyran people were looking to Victor as the rightful ruler and the military and many border land nobles were doing the same.  Then Operation GALAHAD II was initiated.  Four RCT’s and several additional regiments took the route less travelled to Tharkad and Victor brought Blitzkrieg to the Lyran Capital world. Katherine could have made a go of it, but she made the wrong choice in deciding to flee to fight again.  The battle was over in a day and Katherine was arrested, publically tried and executed, all within a week.

What surprised Morgan about all of what Victor had done in those years was his focus and new ruthlessness.  He still had the instincts he had always possessed, but added to that now was an ability to do what was necessary to get the job done well and done fast.  That is what worried the Marshall about today; Victor had called the meeting on Pandora for symbolic reasons and Morgan thought that Victor might be planning the next stage of his war on the Clans, launching from this world soon.  We can probably do it, but we need more information on Phelan and his dammed Wolves before we move.  They are too dangerous to treat in the way we would treat the Steel Vipers.  Still, it is best to wait a while and fully gather our strength before striking again.

Victor stood, his small size making him still appear like a boy amongst his seniors and waved the assembled Marshals, Generals and Admirals to their seats.  “Ladies and Gentlemen, I know you all have far too little time for gas bagging with each other socially and like to use these occasions to spread malicious rumours and gossip, but if you could all be seated, we can begin.”

Chuckles and smiles met Victor’s pronouncement.

“We were only spreading vicious rumours about our Archon-Prince my lord.”  The voice was deadpan and came from Hauptmann-General Michael Leece, the commander of the recently formed Terran Brigade.  The man took little seriously, but his efforts in the Terran Corridor were herculean and it would not be long before, if Morgan had his way, he promoted Leece to Marshall and command of the entire March.

Victor laughed and responded, “And that my good General, is why you are stuck holding the Terran Corridor open whilst the rest of us enjoy our time in rank.”

The good-natured General nodded as he sat, “Fair point there sir.”

Victor got straight to business, as was his want.  “I must apologise for the nature of our accommodations,” Victor indicated to the plushly appointed room, ornate table and gilt chairs, “but as the Command Centre is still under construction, this will have to do for now.  That and Duke Desmond was rather insistent that we use his palace.”  Victor made a rueful smile and slightly shook his head before continuing.  “I have brought you all together here on Pandora, to send a message to our people that we do not fear the Clans, despite the threat they pose, however, the real reason is to have an open discussion regarding our plans for the next five years, leading up to the end of the Truce of Tukayyid.”

Victor paused and as he did, a voice spoke up.  Morgan could not see the woman, as she was on his side of the table, several chairs down with the other Admirals, however, he could tell the voice of Fleet Admiral Lyn Hood anywhere, hard and gravelly and brooking no nonsense.  “If I may Sir?”

Victor cocked his head to the right and looked to his left, where halfway down the table, Fleet Admiral Hood waited for his response.  “By all means Admiral.”

“Sir, my view on the next five years, which is shared by all members of the Fleet, “nods of agreement came from the other Admirals present,” is that we should shelter behind the Fleet and build our strength up, whilst adding new and better hulls.  I don’t care how many Clusters those vat grown lunatics have, they won’t mean a dam thing if my ships can vaporise them before they reach the ground.”

“Here, here.” Said a voice, but Morgan could not tell who it was.

Marshal Sharon Bryan, commander of the Lyran Periphery March and someone, despite Morgan’s best efforts, he was unable to get rid of, spoke up.  “More funds lost on those white elephants you play with.  That’s a joke Admiral, we need more OmniMechs, not more megaton paper weights!”  The Marshall had accented every second word by jamming her finger into the table.

“All Assault weight too I’d half expect!” retorted the Admiral.

No love lost there thought Morgan.  He looked to his right at Victor, who nodded to him as other voices joined in and started a rising din.

“Ladies and Gentlemen!” Morgan said loudly and the voices died down.  “The Archon-Prince was not asking for a cadet room argument, he was asking for ideas.  Though I do see the merit of Marshal Bryan’s suggestion that we build more OmniMechs, and OmniFighters for that matter, regular BattleMechs, support forces, Battle Armour and WarShips will all play a role.  However, I am inclined to support Admiral Hood’s recommendation that we build more WarShips.  We lag behind in both numbers and heavy combatants compared to most major navies and that situation leaves us in a dangerous position.”

“Thankyou Morgan,” said Victor, “Field Marshal Aleixandre, what do you and the Quartermaster’s Department think of such material demands?”

The General in question, plain and unassuming, straightened in his seat before answering, whilst absentmindedly playing with the papers in front of him.  “We can do it all Sire, but at grand cost.  I would recommend that we increase Omni-production gradually, as we just don’t have the personnel to service and maintain many more at present, though that will change over time.  Regular Mech, fighter and armour production will grow whether we want it to or not, as the various corporations are having a field day meeting demand and all are trying to grow their share of the market.  As to WarShips, they might cost fair penny, but if we have the yards, we can keep cranking them out.  Though as Admiral Hood suggested, it is high time we build better ships.  I have Admiral Hood’s proposal here sir and it is in your notes.  “Various hands along the table began fishing out the sheets in question.  “I would suggest that we end production of the current Fox-class Corvette after 24 hulls and keep up production of the Mjolnir, Avalon and Durendal, the last of which is only now entering series production.  We have three proposals for a successor to the Fox, the Fox-II, a resurrected Mako and the Corvette Mk.2 from the New Syrtis yards.  From my end Sire, the Fox-II makes the most sense.  The Admiral also wants to restart production of the New Syrtis carrier and Robinson Transport, based off old plans once the Fox run ends and we have a spare yard to build the Avalon in.”  He paused, “Oh, and the new slip at Gibbs has started production on the first of the Emden-class Light Cruisers.

“Emden-class?”  One of the General’s asked.

Victor answered before Field Marshal Aleixandre could.  “It is a little toy that Katherine’s people thought up to fill the gap between the Mjolnir and Fox and though the Avalon is good, the Emden fills an entirely different role and will be able to take on the Aegis-class ships the Clans seem so fond of.”

Morgan chimed in, “It is a powerful ship, but don’t get your hopes up Admiral, the last note I saw said it would not be in service before the start of 3065.”

“Power does come at a price.”  Admiral Hood shrugged as she answered.

“Very well, I want us moving forward on your general plans Field Marshal Aleixandre, and I would like a full report on what that will entail over the coming five and ten years by the end of the week.”  The Field Marshall nodded whilst making notes and Victor moved the conversation on.  “So, let us deal with the elephant in the room.  What do we do over the next five years?  My own inclination is to go on the attack now, drive home our advantage over the Vipers and hit the Wolves before they get their feet back under themselves properly.”

Morgan spoke first, as was expected in such situations.  Here is hoping I can dissuade him.  “Respectively sire, I must disagree.”  Victor nodded and indicated that he continue, “I understand our positions differ on this Sire, but I think a more cautious route will bring more in the long run.”

Morgan paused to gather his thoughts, “The AFFC now commands 97 regiments and 86 RCT’s, which compares very well with our pre-Clan War strength 178 regiments and 75 RCT’s, with much of the reduction in strength coming from the loss of mercenary units.  This puts the AFFC at effectively 80% of what we had in 3050.  With the way our factories and academies are pumping out material and soldiers, we can cover this gap within the next five years, without hiring any more mercenaries and lay in significant stores or add more regiments to the rolls.  Time is out ally here – we have the industry and numbers to win and as long as we are given the time, we can prevail over the Clans, even if the Hell’s Horses and Ice Hellions intervene.” 

Morgan finished and leaned back in his chair.  “Thankyou Marshal, as always you see to the heart of the matter, though I would see those same materials and soldiers you speak of supporting an ongoing campaign.”  Victor looked along the table, “Any other thoughts?”

“Attack now, you do have the right of it sire and I mean no disrespect to the Marshal of the Armies.  The Vipers are stretched and the Wolves have not yet recovered.”  So spoke General Rudolph Chapman, commander of the elite 1st Federated Suns Armoured Cavalry.

“I would hold and build myself.”  That from the Lyran State Commander, Field Marshall Roman Steiner.  “You can’t match good old Lyran industry.  Add that to a bit of Davion sweat and the Clans will hit a steel wall come 3067.  After that, we can deal with the other Houses.”

Murmurs of agreement, especially at the Field Marshall’s last point, greeted his thoughts and at least a dozen voices were raised in agreement.

Victor slowly stood, placed his arms behind his back a prepared to speak.  Victor, listen to you generals.  You have had a grand run of lock these last few years, don’t push it now. 

“It seems as though my own views may well be in the minority, however, I can see reason when it is presented.”  Victor looked along the length of the table, “Are there any others who believe in striking now as our best course of action?”  Only two other General’s raised their hands.  “Very well, for now, the AFFC will remain on the defensive, but I want every March to have a reserve of forces ready for immediate counter-attack should any realm or Clans strike at us.  Additionally, I want the Coventry and Donegal Reserves hard up on the Tamar border, ready to use there if needed.”

“What about the Hell’s Horses Sire?”  Marshall Mark Kostic, commander of the Coventry March asked.

“You will get extra transport assets to make sure the reserve can respond to either threat.”

“Thankyou Sire.”

Victor, though not showing any signs to the High Command over their lack of support for his desire for action, had been aback.  However, Morgan could see it. You can’t win them all boy and by stepping back and compromising, you earned more respect from them than you could have if you took Sudeten tomorrow.  Besides, with your reserves, you’ll get your wish for a fight at some stage.  Or were you planning this all along and just capitulated for show?  If the latter is the case then you are growing faster than I originally thought.

Victor resumed his seat and looked to the General on the far end of the table on the side opposite to Morgan.  General Trevena, if you could be so good as to provide and update on the other realms?”

The tall man stood and bowed slightly in Victor’s direction, “Of course Sire.”  He then directed his attention to the larger gathering.  “Sirs, the following briefing is, well, brief, but your packages contain all the additional data and I am available for individual briefing as required all week.  My role here is to provide you all with an overview of the other nations positions as they currently stand.”

General Trevena picked up a remote and turned on a holographic projector, which brought up a map of the Inner Sphere and Clan Occupation Zones.  “Beginning with the Clans, it would appear that both the Hell’s Horses and Ice Hellions have not expanded their forces in the Inner Sphere as yet.  Though they pose a threat, our forces in place are sufficient to deal with them.  Clan Steel Viper, though spread more thinly than before the Refusal War, has managed to expand its forces, we think by around half a dozen Clusters, but our information is not entirely clear on that.   Clan Wolf has apparently stopped forming new Clusters, but our people on Tamar tell us that huge convoys have arrived over the past months and deposited vast quantities of industrial machinery on the world.  From what those industrial facilities have now begun producing, we surmise that this material comes from Jade Falcon sources in the Homeworlds.”

“How can you be so sure?”  Asked one of the other Admirals present.

“We can’t be sir.  But the designs being produced are traditionally deployed by Falcon and not Wolf forces.”  General Trevena paused to see if another question would be forthcoming and then continued, “Clan Ghost Bear has been settling in after completing it move from the Homeworlds and seems to be making a play for the hearts and minds of Rasalhague, which won’t play well with the Wolves.  The Nova Cats and Smoke Jaguars are quiet since the battles of Avon and Caripare and we don’t expect much activity there for a while.”

“You’re wrong there general.” Said Victor.

“How so Sire?”

“I received a communication from Hohiro Kurita shortly before this meeting.  It seems the Nova Cats are attacking the Jaguars on numerous worlds, though the results of the fighting are not clear at the moment.”  Victor paused, “There was also this note, from the hand of Hohiro himself, the most recent ISF analysis of the Clans and an official demand for the Federated Commonwealth to return Alphecca, Dromini VI and the Lyons Thumb to the Combine.”

Victor reached into his tunic and withdrew a small piece of paper that had been folded once, opened it and began to read.

“Clansmen fear your wrath
Duty bows the strongest backs
Old foes do not change.”

General Steiner looked at the Archon-Prince quizzically, “I don’t see what it means.”

Victor smiled wanly and his refolded the paper and placed it back inside his tunic.  “It means General, that the Draconis Combine will continue to work with the Federated Commonwealth against the Clans, but in all other matters, the old status quo remains.  Would you not agree General Trevena?”

“Yes Sire, all indications point to a steady change in the top ranks of the Combine against working with the Federated Commonwealth.  Alphecca and Dromini got the ball rolling, but it seems that some of his actions towards you weakened the Coordinator’s position.  Had the realm remained divided, he may have been able to work more closely with you, but the threat of the reunited FC and the fighting near Lyons has seen the hardliners force his hand.”

Victor nodded slowly, “It was bound to happen anyway.  What of the other realms?”

The General picked up where he had left of.  “The DCMS has apparently had some extra WarShip facilities, like the League, only this time under the nose of the Clans on Chatham.  Their new Yamato-class Battleship is a fine ship and the other new class, the Kaga, is just a reworking of the old Samarkand II design.”

He paused, lifted a glass of water from the table, sipped, replaced the glass and then returned to his briefing.  “The Free Worlds has been quiet, but that won’t last and Thomas and Candace Liao have reached some sort of accommodation.  Though Isis is no use to anyone with Kai off on Solaris VII chasing Grey Noton’s record, both the Captain-General and the Chancellor are focused on us right now.  Both have raised several new regiments and neither has much force on their mutual border.  The Periphery is generally quiet, but the Magistracy and Taurians have been aggressively colonising the space between their realms, jointly and seemingly in an effort to limit Capellan ambitions there.  Both realms are not happy with the way in which their forces were used by the CCAF and the Trinity Alliance seems to be dead in the water, which suits us perfectly.  However, I can’t verify this, but there is a report that a WarShip was sighted in the Hyades Cluster.  If that is so, the Concordat bears close watching."

The meeting dragged on, much of it not heard by Morgan, whose mind raced through dozens of future scenarios and plans. 

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: drakensis on May 24, 2014, 04:02:28 AM

Interesting to see perspectives on Victor having changed.

And an Inner Sphere realm really building up and using their much larger population base against the Clans is far too realistic. The forces of FASAnomics are spinning in their graves!  ;D

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on May 24, 2014, 04:05:31 AM

Don't worry, crazy will be back in vogue soon enough.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on May 25, 2014, 01:56:30 AM

Maps for the next chapter.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on May 25, 2014, 02:03:31 AM

-4-
7th of August, 3062
Clan Smoke Jaguar Clan Hall
Schuyler, Clan Smoke Jaguar Occupation Zone

“SILENCE!”  The roar from Khan Brandon Howell brought order to the Smoke Jaguar Clan Council.  “There has been enough short sighted rage for one day,” growled the Khan, “We can afford no more, unless you wish the Nova Cats to do more damage to our Touman and take more worlds from us?”

Only murmurs met the Khan’s statement.  Khan Howell placed his hands behind his back, then began a slow walk from one end of the stage to another and back again, always with his head turned to the massed ranks of the several hundred Clan Smoke Jaguar Warriors present in the newly complete Clan Council Chambers on Schuyler.  Like all Jaguar architecture, it was spartan and massive in form, with grey granite benches, set within mauve-shot grey marble paved isles.  Similar marble lined the walls and formed the ornamental columns of the chamber, which was lit be holographic fires and torches, with pin spots used to highlight the dais and any other speakers.  The overall effect was to make the Council Chamber appear like a packed mausoleum.

“Star Colonel Moon”, the Khan began, carefully pronouncing each word, “You suggest we go on an immediate offensive against world the Nova Cats have taken and against every Cluster they have sent against us.  Did you have anything else to add?”

The huge Elemental Star Colonel stood and glared at his Khan.  “We should send every Cluster we have straight at the Nova Cats and drive them from the Inner Sphere!  A true Jaguar Khan would understand that and not need such direction.”

Khan Howell stopped pacing and turned to face the still standing Moon, who towered over the other Jaguar officers in the front row of seating.  “Send all our Clusters in an all-out frontal assault?  I see you strategic acumen is as good as your ability to stop traitors escaping.”  The Khan referred to the recent defection of a Jaguar Warrior known as Trent, something Star Colonel Moon had failed to prevent and more than likely caused.

The Star Colonel’s hand went to his new leg, which had been budded following the loss of the original during the attempt to stop Trent’s defection.  The Star Colonel went red and seemed ready to explode before the Khan continued.

“It is lack of thinking like yours Star Colonel Moon, which has caused the Jaguar so many problems over the last decade.  We blindly charged onto Luthien and Tukayyid expecting victory, ignoring our opponent’s abilities and believing that by simply fighting we would win.  Those two disasters cost our Clan half its strength, something we have taken ten years to rebuild from.  We then whittled away much of what we could have used to rebuild in fruitless raiding against the other invaders, or against the Draconis Combine, whilst failing to address the unrest in the Occupation Zone.  Yet you have the audacity to stand there and declare that the same failed policies, polices have left us lagging behind the Ghost Bears and Wolves and unable to gain a clear advantage over the Nova Cats, will be the ones to defeat this large scale assault by Clan Nova Cat.”

Star Colonel Moon appeared to be taken back by the Khan’s worlds, but refused to back down from a man he did not respect.  “You are no Smoke Jaguar, you think like those weasels of old we destroyed.  Your genes are no doubt contaminated with their filth!”

Silence filled the hall as the Warriors gathered waited for the Khan’s response to the insulting insinuation that he was a Mongoose.

Placing his hands behind his back, the Khan looked down at Star Colonel Moon, “I challenge you to a Trial of Grievance, Star Colonel Paul Moon.  It is time our Clan was free of short sighted idiots like you.”
Moon grinned wickedly, “Then I choose to fight unaugmented, with only what we have upon us now!”
Khan Howell smiled right back at him, “Then I choose that we fight right now on this stage.  Loremaster, if you would be so good as to officiate.”

As Loremaster Mehta called the room to order and directed the Star Colonel to the stage, the Khan kept his hands behind his back, all the while focusing on his approaching foe.  Your death here will show how short sighted our arrogance has become.  You will serve the Clan one last time Moon.

Khan Howell barely heard the Loremaster’s instruction to begin, focused as he was on the approaching behemoth of a man, who was striding across the broad stage to come into close combat range.  Khan Howell did not move, did not even blink as the Elemental approached, which far too late Paul Moon only noted.  At a range of three meters, with his arms outstretched, a dawning realisation that he might have entered a trap began to surface, but by that time, the trap had already closed.

Khan Howell whipped his right arm forward in a smooth motion, releasing the flat dagger he wore at the small of his back.  Ever since he had been ambushed on the streets of Outer Volta three years ago, he never went anywhere unarmed and though not a technical breach of Jaguar Council rules, carrying a weapon in Council was certainly not something often done.  Nevertheless, the dagger was on its way and Moon’s desperate attempt to block the speeding steel was too late in coming.  The dagger thocked home into the Star Colonels throat, the blade protruding from the back of his neck, as a surprised and rather stupid expression shot across the soon to be dead man’s face.

The Star Colonel gasped, gurgled and then spat forth a torrent of blood, all whilst reaching for and removing the dagger.  His clumsy attempt to remove the weapon and use it, only widened the wounds in his throat and neck and produced a torrent of blood.  He took two faltering steps towards Khan Howell and made a clumsy attempt to skewer him, however, the Khan batted away the Star Colonel’s arm, knocking the dagger free to clatter across the stage, before using the arm as a pivot and sweeping Moon’s legs from under him.  More blood fountained forth when the huge man hit the stage on his back, and he made another feeble strike at the Khan, who contemptuously slapped it away.  The Khan then turned his back on his rapidly expiring foe and walked to the front of the stage.

Pointing at the weakly thrashing Star Colonel, Khan Brandon Howell addressed the Clan Council.  “That is what is waiting for us should we follow the late Star Colonel’s strategy, one I am sure many of you now see the folly of.  The Cat’s want us to counter-attack and they need us too.  Should we strike against them, on ground of their choosing, where they are prepared to meet us, we will be broken as a Clan, like some of our Clusters already are.  Never forget the Bear at our back either, for he has no love for the Jaguar and would think nothing of striking hard to claim what is ours.”

Silence swallowed the Khan’s words with not a voice raised for over a minute.  Eventually the Loremaster spoke, acknowledging a Warrior who had requested the floor.  “Galaxy Commander Tatiana Kotare, you wish to be heard?”

“I do Loremaster.” Illuminated by the overhead spots, the tall, dark haired woman, who stood in the third row of warriors, responded.  “Khan Howell, you expect defeat at the hands of the Nova Cats if we attack.  If that it so, what then do you suggest?”

Khan Howell, still standing at the very edge of the stage slowly shook his head.  “I do not expect to be defeated by the Nova Cats, only defeated by their plans should we follow them.  I have something else in mind, a plan that will secure our Occupation Zone, end the nest of pests on Wolcott and secure our place at the forefront of the Invasion in five years’ time.”

As murmurs and a buzz of muttering filled the hall, the Galaxy Commander crossed her arms and spoke again, “What plan do you propose Khan Howell?”

Khan Howell gestured to the Loremaster, who brought an image of the shared Occupation Zone up on the chamber’s main screen.  The screen showed that the Nova Cats had driven Clan Smoke Jaguar from seven worlds within the Occupation Zone and were contesting five others.  It was the largest single set back the Clan had suffered since Tukayyid.  Along the right hand side of the screen were listed the losses suffered by the Clan, which included the entire 12th Jaguar Regulars and five WarShips.  The WarShip losses were nothing short of devastating, with three Destroyers and the Texas-class Battleship CSJ Veiled Huntress gone and the Liberator-class Cruiser Korat captured.  Though the Jaguars had destroyed a Nova Cat Cruiser and one of their Frontline Clusters in return, the correlation of losses was heavily in the Nova Cat’s favour.

Khan Howell began to explain his plans as lines appeared on the map marking troop movements.  “Apparently the Nova Cats are preparing to receive our counter-attacks in most areas where they have struck at us, though close to the Truce Line they appear to still be aggressively active.  I propose that we no longer attempt to share an Invasion Corridor with Clan Nova Cat.”  Several calls of agreement met the Khan’s pronouncement. “However,” he continued, “my planning might not be what you would expect.  Galaxy Commander Mehta, what has been the greatest drain on our Clan in the Inner Sphere?”

The Galaxy Commander stood and was again illuminated.  “The drain that the insurrections on many worlds cause.”

The Khan nodded, “Yes, correct, and what is the source of the insurrection’s strength?”

“The incessant raiding by the Draconis Combine from Wolcott and their border worlds into our systems.”
“Correct again Galaxy Commander.  How could we address this issue?”

The Galaxy Commander stood a little higher as she answered, “Defeat the Draconis Combine!”

Brandon Howell chuckled, “That would be the ideal, but could we do so at this moment Galaxy Commander Mehta?”

The Galaxy Commander’s shoulders slumped a little at the Khan’s question and her voice was bitter, “No, we cannot.”

“Why?”

“Because my Khan, we cannot take the Combine on our own, not without the Nova Cat’s cooperation, which is not going to happen, or without bringing in another Clan, something we should not do.  Then there are the Ghost Bears, they would not let us take such action without attempting to take worlds from us.”

“Precisely Galaxy Commander, which is why we must find another route and I believe I have found one.  We will strike towards Terra, liberating systems Anti-Spinward of a line from Bangor to Kanowit, concentrating our forces on the Anti-Spinward side of that line.  By taking those systems and not fighting on the systems that the Cats are planning for us to, we take them unawares and form a contiguous Occupation Zone.”

“But we will no longer hold the honour of the flank my Khan.”  The Galaxy Commander said.

Khan Howell shook his head slightly, “Does that really matter anymore.  The flank is poison.  Look at the Vipers, the Falcons and our own position recently.  It drains us of materials we should be readying for use in a drive to Terra.  No, let the Nova Cats waste their time with the Dragon, whilst we build ourselves up and prepare to lead the advance on Terra and claim our rightful place as ilClan!”

The Galaxy Commander crossed her arms, “How do you know that the Cats will not attack again and derail this plan?”

“I do not.  However, with the troops that have fallen back already into my planned Zone and those from Hyner, Virentofta, Staplefeld, Asgard, Port Arthur and Tarazed, we can claim a corridor of our own and prevent any Nova Cat attack from gaining any further worlds, crushing any attempt to do so.  We will take out technology and re-establish enclaves on the worlds of New Ceylon, Ferranil, Bilma and Tuat, showing all those within the Occupation Zone our power and our ability to resurrect the lost worlds of the Star League and strengthening our Clan.  Furthermore, and in order to make sure that a fitting message is sent to both Clan Nova Cat and the other Clans, we will drive forward to the Truce Line, taking eight more worlds and setting our Clan up to lead the way to our destiny!”

Some sheered, some yelled and others talked and muttered to each other, but no open voice of dissent emerged from the Council chamber, which quietened as the Galaxy Commander spoke again.  “A bold plan my Khan, and not sharing a mixed Zone with the Nova Cats will help greatly, but what of combat for our Warriors and what of Wolcott?”

“There will be plenty of war for us all in the coming five years; however, we will not be drained by the Draconis Combine’s incessant raiding and rebels.  In order to end Wolcott’s threat, a world which we cannot take ourselves, I have negotiated with Clan Diamond Shark for a Galaxy worth of equipment in order to allow them to take that world for their own.  They are desperate for a foothold in the Inner Sphere, yet lack the numbers of troops to be a real threat to any established invader.  Though I too decry their merchant ways, their materials will make us strong, just as the end to raiding and rebellions will.  Furthermore, I intend to call forward Omega Galaxy and whatever materials we can from Huntress.  We can no longer be content to be aggressive, we must be like a true Jaguar, smart and aggressive, striking with power when and where we choose, but never blindly and never without consideration.  We have fallen far in the last decade Trothkin, it is now time to become a new Smoke Jaguar Clan and retake our place as the leaders of Clan society!”

Though standing ovations, universal acclaim or even much applause did not greet Khan Howell’s pronouncement, the Clan clearly received the message.   The Jaguars would no longer lead by gut reaction and though true cultural change within the Clan would take many years, Khan Howell had picked his moment with care.  There would be many challenges and many dead leaders, culled by Howell's hand, but his vision and skill had not been seen in the Clan for many a year, and slowly, ever so slowly, the Smoke Jaguars would begin to believe in his vision.  The Smoke Jaguars were now more dangerous than ever before and their plans were only just beginning to take shape.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Corsair_SG on May 25, 2014, 02:23:04 AM

Very Well Done.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on May 25, 2014, 02:23:33 AM

Quote from: Corsair_SG on May 25, 2014, 02:23:04 AM

Very Well Done.

Thanks.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Corsair_SG on May 25, 2014, 02:31:58 AM

Mind taking a look at my first try at a story for my AU when you have time, trying to see if i missed any thing or get some possible ideas inputted. TIA

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on May 25, 2014, 02:33:33 AM

I started, got attacked by a 2 year old and forgot all about it.  I'll have a look later on and get back to you.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Shadow_Wraith on May 25, 2014, 02:36:38 AM

SEYLA! Khan Howell!!!  Nice to see him in charge!  Very intersting times indeed!  Especially trading and letting Clan DS have a world in exchange that they could not have taken!   ;D

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: CJvR on May 25, 2014, 10:00:30 AM

Felt a bit inspired...

Quote

For too long have we been fascinated with the brutal decisiveness of the Jaguar's pounce on it's prey. As a result we have pranced around out in the open where we have been assailed by dogs, cats and birds - all cautious enough to keep enough distance to deny us the opportunity to crush them while constantly nipping at our heels. We must remember the other qualities of the Great Smoke Jaguar. It's patience, cunning and stealth that allows it to set up it's prey for that final irresistible strike. That is the Jaguar we must revive.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: masterarminas on May 25, 2014, 01:23:33 PM

Are you inside my head, Blacknova?  I had almost EXACTLY the same idea for Wolcott that will be coming up in H:CGS soon.  ;)  Well done, sir.  Well done, indeed.

MA

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Dragon Cat on May 25, 2014, 05:09:02 PM

Never did understand why the Jags didn't allow other Clans to take Wolcott sure they were too proud for their own good but trade a couple of worlds & Wolcott in exchange for securing their OZ would have been worth it.

Nicely done Blacknova even if the Jags plan on screwing over the Nova Cats :'(

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on May 25, 2014, 05:30:47 PM

Quote from: Shadow_Wraith on May 25, 2014, 02:36:38 AM

SEYLA! Khan Howell!!!  Nice to see him in charge!  Very intersting times indeed!  Especially trading and letting Clan DS have a world in exchange that they could not have taken!   ;D

Something different that I thought might work, glad you like it.

Quote from: CJvR on May 25, 2014, 10:00:30 AM

Felt a bit inspired...

Quote

For too long have we been fascinated with the brutal decisiveness of the Jaguar's pounce on it's prey. As a result we have pranced around out in the open where we have been assailed by dogs, cats and birds - all cautious enough to keep enough distance to deny us the opportunity to crush them while constantly nipping at our heels. We must remember the other qualities of the Great Smoke Jaguar. It's patience, cunning and stealth that allows it to set up it's prey for that final irresistible strike. That is the Jaguar we must revive.

Is that something you wrote?

Quote from: masterarminas on May 25, 2014, 01:23:33 PM

Are you inside my head, Blacknova?  I had almost EXACTLY the same idea for Wolcott that will be coming up in H:CGS soon.  ;)  Well done, sir.  Well done, indeed.

MA

I come into your house whilst you are sleeping and poke around inside your head.  I hope I didn't break anything?

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on May 25, 2014, 05:31:40 PM

Quote from: Dragon Cat on May 25, 2014, 05:09:02 PM

Never did understand why the Jags didn't allow other Clans to take Wolcott sure they were too proud for their own good but trade a couple of worlds & Wolcott in exchange for securing their OZ would have been worth it.

Nicely done Blacknova even if the Jags plan on screwing over the Nova Cats :'(

Glad you like, but your Cat's are in a bit of a tight spot now.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: CJvR on May 25, 2014, 08:00:08 PM

Quote from: Blacknova on May 25, 2014, 05:30:47 PM

Is that something you wrote?

Yes.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on May 27, 2014, 03:59:33 AM

Maps for the next chapter.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on May 27, 2014, 04:06:44 AM

-5-
11th of September, 3062
1st Wolf Guards Encampment
Kirchbach, Alpha Zone, Clan Wolf Occupation Zone

Star Captain Horse, of the 1st Wolf Guards lounged back in the couch within the office of his commanding officer, Star Colonel Dianna Pryde, who had focused on completing the Cluster’s readiness report.  Dianna was bent over the data pad and typing away as if the very fate of the Clans depended on it.  Her plain desk, topped only with a few piles of paper, was directly opposite Horse on the other long wall of the office.  To his immediate right was the back wall of the office, to his left a small utilitarian table and chairs, at which sat the other Star Captains of the 1st Guards. 

At the table was Star Captain Frederick, a Ristar from the original Clan Wolf who had distinguished himself fighting with the 352nd Assault Cluster during the Refusal War.  The huge man had missed gaining a Bloodname in his first attempt following the War, but odds were, he would have one soon.  The man was almost as dour and serious as the older, dark haired woman, sitting to his left.  Joanna, formerly of the 1st Falcon Guards, as were Horse and Dianna and most of the Cluster, which traced its history back to that famed unit, was as straight as she was deadly and had little time for frivolity or matters not directly related to the military.  However, despite her dour nature, which Horse assumed came from many unrealised plans, Joanna’s fortunes had seemed to change since the Refusal War, though not her demeanour.  Her victory over the famed Natasha Kerensky and her later efforts as a new Wolf, had seen her promoted back to Star Captain and she was again in the running for a Bloodname, having been nominated and now successfully made it to the last eight Warriors.  This would be her last chance due to her age and the strain was beginning to show, as she was more irritable than Horse had ever seen her.   To Joanna’s left was Star Captain Eric Fetladral, another Wolf original and a man nearly as laconic and to Joanna, nearly as annoying as Horse.  Horse and Eric had gotten along like old friends from their first meeting and had formed a close bond in the two years since.

Horse was quite enjoying his time as a Wolf, despite his upbringing as a Falcon, as that upbringing had been hard and he had received little recognition for his services across many years.  The more accepting attitude towards Freeborns within Clan Wolf and it less structured and strict culture made Horse feel very comfortable.  Horse also knew that the very Wolf attitudes that made him happy drove Joanna close to tears, which was icing on the cake in Horse’s world.  Needling Joanna was one of the few pleasures in his life as a Jade Falcon, now it was just one among many, but a treasured one nonetheless.

Time wandered by as Star Colonel Pryde continued to make the final additions to the report, as Horse watched Joanna grow more and more impatient.  She did not fidget or make any noise, but the furrow in her brow grew deeper, her eyes harder and her bearing more statue like with every passing moment.  Just when Horse thought Joanna was about to burst, he made sure she did.

POP!  He smacked his tongue within his mouth.  Hard eyes flicked to him and bored in.

POP!  Again, he made the noise, but made no indication that he had noticed Joanna’s sudden focus on him.

POP!  Star Captain Fetladral began to grin like a Cheshire cat.  He knew what was coming and loved the simple beauty of it.

POP!

DAMMIT YOU FREEBIRTH PEST CAN’T YOU SEE THE STAR COLONEL IS WORKING!

Star Captain Fetladral was clubbed backwards as Joanna threw her arms up and he went down laughing all the way to the floor.  Star Captain Frederick stood at Joanna’s outburst and glared at all three, but did not utter a word.  Dianna however, was somewhat annoyed, as the outburst had caused her to hit the wrong icon on her pad and delete the entire report.

“Star Captain Joanna!”

Joanna came to immediate attention.  The Star Colonel was obviously furious, but rapidly gained control of herself.  “For your outburst and the work you just caused to be lost, you can rewrite the Cluster readiness report I was forced to delete and learn that a key skill of a Warrior is patience under duress.”

Joanna clenched her jaw and shot Horse a look of pure venom, “Aff Star Colonel.”

“Star Captain Horse,” Horse stood as he was being addressed, “You will assist the Technicians in the Mech bay for the next week after your normal duties and learn that team work is more important than personal gain.”

In a light voice, Horse answered, “Certainly Star Colonel, it will be my pleasure.”  The Star Colonel had no idea that Horse quite enjoyed the Mach Bay, as he had met a rather beguiling Trueborn Technician there who he had enjoyed several interesting nights with already. 

It was at this point that Horse noticed a face looking through the window on the door to the office, and his face froze.  Dianna saw his eyes change, but before she could say anything or move her eyes, Horse said “saKhan Pryde.”

The door opened and in walked the saKhan of Clan Wolf.  Frederick, Dianna and Joanna went immediately to parade ground attention and saluted.  Star Captain Fetladral gathered himself of the floor and with a wry grin rose to a somewhat more lax attention.  Horse also came to attention, not in the manner of the three ramrod straight officers, but this was one of the few Trueborn Warriors Horse actually respected.  Horse was also impressed with Khan Kell, firstly for nominating Marthe Pryde and secondly for showing how high a Freeborn could climb.

“saKhan Pryde, it is an honour.”  Dianna could say little else, exceedingly embarrassed that the saKhan had likely seen the chicanery of her Star Captains.

“Star Colonel Pryde, thankyou for the welcome.  I am glad to see that your Star Captains have not lost their rapport with each other.” Marthe Pryde said with the hint of a smile.

Dianna was at a loss for words, but Horse saved her.  “saKhan Pryde, we were glad to hear of your elevation to the saKhanship.”

“Thankyou Star Captain Horse.” She said to Horse and then turned to Dianna, “Please be seated.”
Though she had offered the other officers their seats, all waited until she had taken her own seat at the front of Dianna’s desk.  Horse unfolded himself back into the comfortable couch with formality, at least in his mind, over and done with.  Likewise, Eric made himself comfortable, but Frederick, Dianna and Joanna sat more rigidly in their own chairs.

Once everyone was settled, the Khan addressed Dianna.  “You are aware of the fighting between Clans Nova Cat and Smoke Jaguar Star Colonel.”

“Yes saKhan, we were briefed by the watch and receive updates as news comes to hand.”

“What you do not know, is that the Ghost Bears have become involved, as has the Draconis Combine.  The Bears have struck at numerous Jaguar worlds and have gained several, though the Smoke Jaguars appear to fighting well and should maintain control of most of their systems.  However, with the threat of the Nova Cats still present, despite the actions of the Draconis Combine, the Smoke Jaguars are vulnerable to an unfettered Ghost Bear assault, something we cannot allow.”

Dianna stared hard at her saKhan as she digested the news, “The Ghost Bears are attacking the Jaguars in their new Occupation Zone Quiaff?”

Marthe nodded and pulled a data pad from the thigh pocket of her fatigues, “Star Colonel, you will be pleased to know, that due to the actions of the Ghost Bears, Khan Kell has ordered Vau Galaxy into action, to coordinate strikes into the Ghost Bear Occupation Zone with Clusters from Epsilon and Xi Galaxies.  We are to cut the Ghost Bear Occupation Zone in two and prevent them from taking advantage of the fighting in and around the Smoke Jaguar Occupation Zone.”

“saKhan, the Bears strength in the Inner Sphere would likely break the Jaguars in their current state.”

 â€œAff Dianna,” answered the Khan, “With the Jaguars maintaining one eye on the Nova Cats and the Draconis Combine becoming involved, we cannot afford to have one of those three Clans drive another from the Inner Sphere.  At that point, we would face a rival of similar power to our own and our hold on the Grand Council and the Invasion Zones would be in jeopardy.”

Dianna nodded slowly as she punched some information into her pad, “What Clusters from Epsilon and Xi?”
“All of them,” answered the saKhan, “We need them to take note of our actions.”  The Star Captains at the table all shifted a little and exchanged looks.  A three Galaxy assault was no trivial undertaking.

Joanna checked the pad again, “We would have no reserves covering the Coreward sector of the Occupation Zone and the Ghost Bears could drive to Kirchbach and cut us off.”

saKhan Pryde smiled, “Not with Alpha Galaxy covering the border behind us.”

There were several hard looks shared by the various commanders.  The fact that a former Falcon Galaxy, Vau, would be part of the assault and the premiere Clan Galaxy, Alpha, would be in support whilst a Garrison Galaxy joined the fray was highly unusual.

Horse spoke up, “If I may saKhan.”

“Of course Star Captain.”

“The Khan sends a message with this.  We are one Clan and Vau is as good as any other Galaxy, even if it contains many old Falcons.  He is also showing, by including Xi, that we all have our parts to play and that old ways will no longer suit us.”

saKhan Pryde leaned back and gave Horse a deep and appraising look, “I would think you part of an Inner Sphere Watch for being able to repeat the Khan’s words to me.  Nevertheless, you are correct.  Khan Kell wishes us to move forward on our path, keeping what is good from the past and discarding that which limits us.  Though I not entirely comfortable with the ideas he espouses, we are Wolves now and must learn to think like them.”

Dianna frowned for a moment before asking a question.  “How many worlds are we to strike?”

The saKhan opened her palm and held up her hand, “Five initially, then another five should be possible, after that, we will be forced to adapt to the situation as it unfolds.”

Dianna nodded approvingly, “With your presence and the three Galaxy Commanders, who will lead the fifth strike.”

saKhan Pryde smiled and snorted, “You don’t miss much, just like Aiden.  You will lead the assault on the world of Last Frontier.  I will command the assault on Trondheim, with the Galaxy Commanders leading the assault on Susquehanna, Pinnacle and Holmsbu.”

Dianna was taken back, but swelled with pride, as did the Star Captains.  “You honour me saKhan.”
“Neg, the Khan honours you.  Khan Kell directed that you lead the assault.  He seems to have a certain faith in your abilities based on shared experience, or some such.”

Dianna stood, “Nevertheless saKhan Pride I, and the Warriors of the 1st Wolf Guards will bring honour to our Clan and our Bloodlines.”

saKhan Pryde looked the Warrior, who in another world would be her niece, and smiled inwardly.  If you are half the commander your father was, you will drive halfway to Luthien.

As Dianna sat she gestured to the saKhan, “What are the Clusters I am commanding?”

“Your own 1st Guards, the 52nd Battle Cluster and the 3rd Wolf Guardians.”

Dianna sat back thinking, “An interesting collection of units.  The former Falcon Guards and the former 5th Falcon Battle, along with a Cluster of Aerospace minded defensive troops.  The 1st and 52nd will lead the assault and the 3rd will cover our advance and secure our lines back to the Wolf Occupation Zone?”

saKhan Pryde was impressed with Dianna’s ability to read her plans, “Yes, each strike commander will send in one of the two frontline Clusters, or both should the defences warrant it, against the first world.  They will leave behind their Garrison Cluster, using either their unengaged Cluster or the least damaged Cluster in the second assault.”

Dianna accepted the saKhan’s words without reaction, “What of the third targets?”

The saKhan stood, everyone in the room following her example “That will be determined at a later date.  For now, you are to rendezvous with the 52nd and 3rd over Dawn in eighteen days – JumpShips are prepositioned to ensure you get there, but you will need to be aboard your transports and lifting off by the evening of the 13th at the latest.”

“As you command saKhan, it will be done.”

The saKhan then saluted, which the Guards officers all returned, “Glory to the Clan Star Colonel Dianna Pryde.”

“Glory to the Clan saKhan Marthe Pryde.” Dianna returned.

The saKhan turned and walked from the office and once she was around the corner the officers relaxed and began babbling between themselves.  Horse cut through the chatter.  “You realise that if the Ghost Bears get cranky, we have front row seats to their counter-attack?”

Joanna snarled back at Horse, “Then more glory for us.  Does your Freebirth heritage make you frightened of a good fight?”

“No Joanna,” said Horse, “I was just worried what such strain would do to the elderly.”

Before Joanna could hurl an insult back, Dianna stepped in.  “Star Captains, I want you Clusters briefed and loading completed by tomorrow afternoon and lift-off by midnight on the 12th.  We will not shame the 1st, or Vau, with a leisurely departure.”

The officers of the 1st saluted and rolled out the door, intent on getting their Trinaries ready before their peers could.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: drakensis on May 27, 2014, 06:14:49 AM

Interesting that Diana's risen so rapidly to command rank. Still, it's been several years now since the Refusal War. Did Ravill Pryde manage to get himself killed in Phelan's counter-attack or is he still floating around somewhere?

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on May 27, 2014, 06:17:19 AM

Ravill is dead, killed in the RW as you surmised and Phelan saw in Dianna the chance to raise another somewhat like himself to high rank.  Dianna is a Ristar in every way now.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: fitzgerald on May 27, 2014, 06:52:55 AM

Dare I hope the Taurians dropped the white elephant of a corvette and are cranking out Concordats again?

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on May 27, 2014, 06:55:21 AM

What do the names tell you?

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Shadow_Wraith on May 27, 2014, 09:15:33 AM

 :) Nice update!  Looking forward to see how the Star Colonel Diana Pryde and how she runs the units she has against what the Clan Ghost Bears have! 

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Dragon Cat on May 27, 2014, 10:48:44 AM

Quote from: Blacknova on May 25, 2014, 05:31:40 PM

Quote from: Dragon Cat on May 25, 2014, 05:09:02 PM

Never did understand why the Jags didn't allow other Clans to take Wolcott sure they were too proud for their own good but trade a couple of worlds & Wolcott in exchange for securing their OZ would have been worth it.

Nicely done Blacknova even if the Jags plan on screwing over the Nova Cats :'(

Glad you like, but your Cat's are in a bit of a tight spot now.

The Nova Cats were in a tight spot since the day they were thought of - unlike the Jags however the IS was a nice place to go looking for a fight without abandoning the Homeworlds to garrison troops.  Just don't side them with the Combine PLEASE!! lol

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on May 27, 2014, 04:01:25 PM

I have no intention of doing so.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Dragon Cat on May 27, 2014, 07:06:37 PM

Quote from: Blacknova on May 27, 2014, 04:01:25 PM

I have no intention of doing so.

Guess that just mean's there dead then  :'( oh well  ;D  I'll still look forward to more

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on May 27, 2014, 07:09:58 PM

Quote from: Dragon Cat on May 27, 2014, 07:06:37 PM

Quote from: Blacknova on May 27, 2014, 04:01:25 PM

I have no intention of doing so.

Guess that just mean's there dead then  :'( oh well  ;D  I'll still look forward to more

Well if you have any attractive relatives you are willing to trade for them, I might let them survive.  That's how I got Andrea, her family were Terran supports, hence the KU.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on June 04, 2014, 05:20:58 AM

Due to my computer dying I lost much of this chapter and wrote a brief replacement on th new rig.

-6-
14th of October, 3062
DropShip CWS Jade Gauntlet
Last Frontier, Clan Ghost Bear Occupation Zone

Dianna had not hurt like this since her time as a cadet.  Everything, everywhere, hurts, and more so every time I move. Dam that bloody Ghost Bear!  Dianna was laid up within the confines of the DropShip CWS Jade Gauntlet which was, like most ex-Jade Falcon vessels, still carrying its old name, something Clan Wolf seemed not to worry itself about.  She had been in the little bunk in her small and spartan cabin for two hours now, going over after action reports, repair schedules and reports from the other Wolf attacks on the Ghost Bear Occupation Zone.  A slug from a falling Ghost Bear gauss rifle had nearly destroyed her cockpit and had left her bruised and severely battered, though with no truly threatening injuries.

Dianna looked to the stack of reports on the bunk to her left, just next to her leg, which was the pile which dealt with the wider war.  We really are in a difficult place now.  The Khan’s plans were good, but these Bears are no pushover.  Our doctrine is still not entrenched at every level and in every Cluster.  Too many still fighting as old Wolves or Jade Falcons, or worse, as arrogant fools fighting for personal honour and endangering the entire invasion.

Dianna looked down the brief overviews of the initial assaults.  Holmsbu was a victory despite the old school approach to the battle.  The 1st Hussars were lucky they faced no more than a PGC and that the Star Colonel in charge of the Bear Cluster followed the old ways.  Despite the victory there, the officers of Clan Wolf involved had been warned against such limiting of forces in future, especially when the Clan’s fortunes were on the line.  The old Falcons there are not so quick to change.  Oh well, they will change their tune rapidly if a Solahma posting is the alternative.

Moving down the page, Dianna looked at the notes on Pinnacle, trying to shift her weight to take the pressure off her many aches, but only managing to aggravate others and wince in the process. Still fighting there, but we should take the world, especially considering the chewing out those officers got.  Facing the 297th Bear Battle the Emerald Keshik was in for a tough fight and bid away too much.  Still, with two Clusters in reserve and Holmsbu down, Pinnacle could not hold for much longer.

Dianna then sneered at the report from Susquehanna, Surats! Epsilon’s Grey Keshik and 1st Jaegers had been driven off world by the 283rd Bear Battle and 4th Claw.  If you had just included the 10th Grenadiers, the Bears would have been forced to include their Solahma garrison and the garrison would have crumbled.  The 10th could then have flanked the main line and victory would have been assured, just like it was here and I would not be left quite so far out in no man’s land.  Dianna tensed and then relaxed quickly as several of her abused muscles screamed at her.

Then there is Trondheim.  Thought Dianna, and the saKhan’s shame.  The saKhan of Clan Wolf, Marthe Pryde, had led like a Falcon, sending in a single Cluster as her dual WarShip escort fought for its life against three Bear WarShips.  You destroyed one, but they managed to hold the space above the world and your single Cluster was not enough.  You fell back on the Wolf Occupation Zone and stranded me here. Dianna chuckled, despite herself, Word is Khan Kell did not even say a word, just looked at you and raised an eyebrow.  The next communication out from you then pointed to the example of our Clusters here on Last Frontier and every officer not here got roasted.  I look forward what your rage will do to your next target, but it may not help my forces.

Dianna had led the forces of Clan Wolf onto Last Frontier in force, making the defending Ghost Bears place both their Clusters, the 12th PGC and 21st Phalanx in the field, along with a Solahma infantry/tank force of about a Cluster in size.  Dianna stood back from the battle as a reserve and watched her 3rd Guardians roll over the Solahma and then flank the main Bear line.  They had tried to escape over the top of Joanna’s Trinary and died there, as her own Trinary and the 52nd Battle fell on them as the hammer to the 1st Guards anvil.   Only four MechWarriors in Joann’s Trinary lived, including Joanna, but they brought down over thirty Ghost Bear ‘Mechs before the last of them went down.  Joanna had added another glorious note to her career and learned that after the battle she would advance to the second last round for the Bloodname Icaza, as her next opponent was dead on Pinnacle.  They held the Bears long enough for the trap to close and the 1st Guards gained all the more glory for it.

Still, on the face of it, we have not done too badly.  We have broken even, taking two, falling back off two and fighting still for one world.  Our two least prestigious Frontline Galaxies and our poorest Galaxy of all, against some of the better forces of Clan Ghost Bear, though definitely not their best, have managed a draw.  Still, the war becomes more complicated now.

Dianna lifted up a new series of reports showing the fighting in and around the Smoke Jaguar and Nova Cat Zones.  The Jaguars have hit back hard against the Bears and driven their forces back towards the Wolf advance.  That will slow or even stop us.  The Khan thinks the Jaguars will stop and allow the Bears to turn towards us, letting the Smoke Jaguars recover their strength.  With the Nova Cats and Draconis Combine fighting more heavily, the Jaguars will have the time they need to recover, especially if the Clans on both borders are otherwise occupied.  So unlike the Jaguars of only five years ago…their new Khan must be facing many challenges to keep them on such a short leash.  Still, they have won more than they have lost recently and driven off two Clans, no small achievement by any reckoning.

Dianna looked at the state of her Clusters, with the Ghost Bear salvage they would be back up to strength, less Joanna’s shattered Trinary, which was little more than a Star now. She can have one of my Stars and we will both lead Binaries for now, thought Dianna. The Bears will be back, and in greater numbers.  An advance into the Ghost Bear Occupation Zone is not to be taken lightly.  Alpha Galaxy might be behind us, but the real mass of the Bears lies towards Terra and all will hinge on how they employ it.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on June 04, 2014, 05:22:37 AM

Overview maps for last chapter.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Abele on June 04, 2014, 07:25:16 AM

Ooops, the Falcons and Wolves ran into a bit off Bear-sized buzzsaw

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Hessian on June 04, 2014, 12:19:32 PM

Hmmm.... I am looking forward to see what you will come up with regarding the reaction of Clan Ghost Bear to these attacks.

Ciao
Hessian

P.S.: Will the Diamond Sharks discover a Harjel analogue on Wolcott in this setting? ;)

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on June 04, 2014, 03:49:13 PM

Already mapping the Bear response.  Not sure about the Hargel.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on June 05, 2014, 11:03:14 PM

-7-
12th of November, 3062
Pleasure Cruiser Sirius
Dieron, Draconis Combine

Edgar Halas, elder son of Christopher Halas, Duke of Oriente, took in the vast swells of the ocean as the Sirius, a rather well appointed pleasure cruiser, ploughed through the sub-tropical seas of the planet Dieron.  The fresh breeze coolly blowed across the small private deck, which was situated towards the stern and was protected from the wind generated by the vessel’s ten knot forward momentum.  Edgar was present to represent the Free Worlds League in a somewhat clandestine fashion.  As the second child of the Duke of Oriente, he was not particularly high in the League’s power structure.  That said, Edgar was no fool and was, as far as the League intelligence agency SAFE knew, an agent of their own who had not as yet been uncovered by either the LIC or MIIO.  This, along with his father’s connections to the Captain-General, made him the perfect person to meet with the “high ranking Combine official” to discuss the future plans of the League and how they might mesh with those of the Draconis Combine.

The sliding door onto the deck, which was opposite Edgar, opened and a man began to move from the shadows into the sun, as Edgar stood he began to welcome his guest, “Welcome, it I my honour to…”

Edgar’s voice trailed off as the man turned to face him and Edgar looked into the face of the heir to the throne of the Draconis Combine, Hohiro Kurita.

“Sir Halas,” began Hohiro, “I see my appearance has caught you off guard.  Please, in our meeting I am merely a high official of the Combine, my other ranks and titles are not important.”

Like hell they’re not.  You would not be here if it were not for your titles.  With his mind racing, Edgar’s thoughts changed track, You being here means you may well have guessed at our plans and you either plan to support them far more readily than we hoped, or plan to scuttle them entirely.

In order to cover his surprise as best he could, Edgar bowed, and held it as long as was due the Coordinator’s heir, no matter what the man said.  Hohiro returned the bow and indicated for Edgar to sit in his large, high backed cane chair, which he did after Hohiro, who flowed into his own cane chair with the grace of a finely trained warrior.

Hohiro looked hard at Edgar, across the selection of fine foods on the low table between them, which were quite forgotten and now superfluous to proceedings.  “You have come many light years to speak with me Sir Halas,” Hohiro began, “please, share with me the reason for your visit and the interests of the Captain-General in our future.”

Edgar collected his thoughts, No point in beating around the bush. “Lord Kurita,” he began, but was interrupted.

“If you are to use titles, my rank of Tai-sa will suffice.”

Edgar nodded once, staring into the dark eyes of the Kurita, which seemed wise beyond his years. “Certainly Tai-sa.”  There was a short pause.  “I am not aware of what information on the plans of the Free Worlds League you may already possess, however, I would like to take some time to provide you with some background to our plans before presenting the actual details.”

Hohiro gestured with his right hand, “By all means Sir Halas, use whatever time you deem necessary.”  Hohiro then plucked a small piece of fruit from one of the platters and looked towards Halas, “If you have not sampled Dieron star fruit before, I would not miss the opportunity now.”  Hohiro placed the fruit in his mouth and his dark eyes lit up, obviously enjoying the flavour.

“Of course Tai-sa.” Said Halas, who took his own piece.  On placing the star fruit in his mouth, he was struck by the soothing coolness and gentle sweetness of the fruit and immediately relaxed, if only a little.

“The simplest pleasures can help in relaxing the mind I find.”

“Something often forgotten Tai-sa.” Edgar said after swallowing. 

Following a pause, where Hohiro made no move to speak, Edgar began his pitch.  “No doubt you are aware of the success that the Free Worlds League and the Capellan Confederation have enjoyed at the hands of the Federated Commonwealth over the last five years.” An almost imperceptible nod was returned.  “We took thirty-one worlds from the former Sarna March and the regions near Bolan, whilst the Capellan Confederation took a further twenty-nine in the former Sarna Commonality.  These gains came close to sealing off the Terran Corridor, but the actions of Prince Davion were enough to prevent a total collapse of those regions.”

Hohiro spoke, accentuating the name and title of his former companion, “Archon-Prince Victor Steiner-Davion, as he expects to be called now, is a formidable warrior, one who has grown into his position in ways none of us could have foreseen.  He combines the most admirable, or dangerous, qualities of his mother, father and grandmother, making him the greatest threat to the Dragon there is, or would be if not for the Clan threat.”

Edgar folded his hands in his lap, across the plain white pants he wore, before answering “The Captain-General is of exactly the same mind Tai-sa.  The Archon-Prince’s newfound strength and resolve and his ability to be both dynamic and calculating as needed, is viewed by the League as a potentially devastating combination for the other great houses.  Were it not for the Clans, one of us would already be fighting for their very survival.”

“Very true.”  Hohiro nodded, almost to himself and seemed to be reflecting on something deep within.

Your friendship with Victor causes you much pain as your duty to the Combine weighs upon the connection you have with the Archon-Prince. “Tai-sa, the LCCC and the Captain-General do not believe that with one war we could bring the Federated Commonwealth to its knees.  The realm is two large and has too many resources to fall quickly, or even be forced to negotiate, except in one place: The Terran Corridor.”

Hohiro focused on Edgar in a way that made Edgar grateful that he would never face this man in anger.  “You seek to close the corridor?”

“We do, but it is not as simple as it sounds.”

Hohiro smiled, “Wars never are Sir Halas.  How do you propose to close such a vital link between the Steiners and Davions?”

Edgar sat a little straighter and maintained ridged control of his hands, which years of oratory had taught him to use to accentuate his speech, something that was not done in formal Combine conversation.  “The success of Operations GUERRO and SPARTACUS, allied to the flanking moves of the Capellan Confederation were more than the AFFC was able to cope with, due to the Lyran succession and the chaos it caused, though we cannot expect such luck again.  However, conversations between the Captain-General and Chancellor Liao have seen a plan develop for a third series of offensives into the Terran March, however, we require a surprise to again destabilise the AFFC, to allow the success of our endeavour.”

Hohiro face had become void of emotion or expression, “You seek the Combine’s aid in closing the corridor, which would take the AFFC by surprise, based on the ongoing semi-détente on our shared border?”

“Yes Tai-sa, we do.  We see no other viable way to close the corridor.”

Hohiro seemed to swell a little before answering, “You understand that the Draconis Combine cannot be party to such an offensive at this time?”

The curt dismissal caught Edgar by surprise.  “Forgive me Tai-sa, I do not.”

Hohiro raised a hand and gestured, another man, dressed in the uniform of a DCMS Chu-sa, walked onto the deck and handed a folder to Hohiro, then bowed and withdrew.  Hohiro opened the folder, withdrew a sheet from it and handed it to Edgar.

Edgar looked at the sheet, which appeared to be a brief summary of after action reports.  Four worlds lost to the Nova Cats and the Smoke Jaguars massing near the Truce Line. Dam it! We don’t need a Clan invasion into the Combine now.  That would mean throwing everything at them I am authorised to give, unless of course the Vipers strike the Federated Commonwealth, which could ease our burden and not require the DCMS.  “Tai-sa, this would seem to indicate the Clans are on the advance again?”

“Not entirely Sir Halas, they have been bickering with each other and the Combine for some months now, and the Wolves and Bears are fighting as well, so we do not expect any trouble from those two.  We do not expect a resumption of a general invasion of the Inner Sphere, as apparently a vote was held to do so and failed.”

Its passage would have been useful; nevertheless it may be time to empty the cupboard. “Tai-sa, you feel that by engaging in the Terran Corridor, you would drain resources from the Clan front?”

“Correct, but not the full story.” Replied Hohiro.  “The Federated Commonwealth and Draconis Combine continue to act in concert against the Clans, if not in other matters.  Were the corridor to close, it would drastically affect the ability of the AFFC to hold the Clans on their border, leading to a general collapse of the defence against the Clans and the subjugation of us all.”

Edgar thought for a moment.  It’s possible the Captain-General would go for it, he would see the necessity and it may well increase the strength of the bargaining chip we would hold. “What of the FWLM agreed to allow the passage of all goods and forces for the Clan front to pass through the corridor?  After inspection that is?”

Hohiro seemed to be somewhat uncomfortable with the path the conversation was taking, despite seeing the simple necessity of it for future stability in the Inner Sphere.   â€œIt would be difficult for you to administer, but would be broadly acceptable to the Combine.  You seek to close the corridor and use it as a bargaining chip to prevent the Federated Commonwealth from dominating the Inner Sphere once the Clan threat diminishes?” 

“We do Tai-sa.  Holding such a position would force the Archon-Prince to negotiate or drive into worlds we plan to heavily fortify, wasting his strength, something he cannot do in the face of the Clans.  If he accepts the new status quo, which he would be a fool not to, then we have time to make those worlds into fortresses the SLDF would decline to assault.  The Federated Commonwealth’s existence would hinge on the cooperation of our realms and the super-state would be somewhat neutered.”

Hohiro sat back, deep in thought.  You see the necessity of this plan; however, you just don’t want to fight a friend and someone who saved your command and possibly your life.  Thought Edgar, However, the Federated Commonwealth, despite its usefulness in facing the Clans is a long term threat that the Combine cannot allow to exist.  You know this and you hate the simple truth of it.

Hohiro suddenly focused on Edgar again.  “The Draconis Combine sees the merits of your argument; however, there are issues that must be addressed before we could agree to such a plan.”

The Combine does, but you do not wish to be part of it more than you have to. Edgar knew he was close now, “Please Tai-sa, if I can assist in addressing those issues, I will.”

“Sir Halas,” began Hohiro, “With Clans Nova Cat and Smoke Jaguar aggressive against us or likely soon to be, we will require additional regiments and the means to support them should action in the Terran Corridor be contemplated.  We would also need to know what worlds you and the Capellans plan to assault and what would be required of the Combine.”

You know more than you are letting on Tai-sa.  The ISF is good, but if you can lead me to what you want so easily, what does the FedCom’s Intelligence Secretariat know?  “Tai-sa, I have been authorised to offer supplies and materials to the DCMS, enough to keep thirty regiments in the field for a considerable period of time.”

Hohiro shook his head once.  “Insufficient Sir Halas, we need troops, not just guns.”

“We have no troops to spare Tai-sa.”

“But you have money, much of it, and that can be turned into troops on Outreach rather rapidly.”

Edgar was out of his depth now, but knew he had to get an agreement today or loose the chance of gaining the Combines involvement. Hohiro was here at the behest of the Coordinator and snubbing him would end the negotiations here and now.  Father and Thomas will be annoyed, but we need the Combine and need it now.  “What would you suggest Tai-sa?”

“There are approximately sixty free mercenary regimens on Outreach, Galatea and other mercenary stars at the current time.  We wish to hire between a fifth and a third of those.”

TWENTY REGIMENTS! Thought Edgar, You don’t plan on messing around.  “Tai-sa, the League could hire some of these for you and return them to League service after the war.”

“No.  They would be used to secure the border with the AFFC and relieve troops facing the Clans after any joint action with the FWLM.  This is not a negotiable point Sir Halas, we require those troops and your material support or you can fight the Federated Commonwealth with only the Confederation to assist.”

Edgar thought for a moment.  What choice do I, or the League for that matter, have?  We need them and they need or materials.  It will cause issues at home but we can recover such monetary and material outlays given time.  “I can agree in principle Tai-sa, but must gain the Captain-General’s final approval.  Such outlays of funds are significant.”  And with that I may well be headed for the Captain-General’s displeasure.

“Of course Sir Halas, but do remember that neither point will be considered negotiable, nor the requirement that supplies for the Clan front be allowed to pass freely through.”  He paused, “Now, please explain your general plans.”

“Certainly Tai-sa.  The FWLM military will focus on the worlds of Keid, Bryant, New Home, Thorin, Chara, Zavijava and Rigil Kentarus, leaving Zollikofen, Muphrid, Caph and New Earth to the DCMS.  At the same time as both ground and naval forces secure the systems targeted by the FWLM, we will be attacking into the Terran March towards Nanking as the CCAF drives towards Liao.  With the DCMS striking as well, chaos should reign in the region, which may also open up the Lyons area to further DCMS attacks.”

“A simple yet audacious plan Sir Halas.” Answered Hohiro. “With what forces do you intend to prosecute such actions?”

Edgar smiled, “With over thirty BattleMech regiments, supporting forces, additional mercenaries and more than thirty WarShips.”

“A not insignificant force.  The Capellans, what do they add to the fight?”

“Another dozen and a half regiments and three WarShips, plus support.”

Hohiro paused, thinking, before speaking again.  “With the League’s financial support we could add another twenty to the total, though we require all our WarShips on the Clan front.  That would leave us with seventy BattleMech regiments facing approximately thirty to fifty AFFC regiments, depending on what reinforcements are dispatched to the fighting.  Not a perfect correlation of forces, but with surprise and naval superiority, an achievable set of goals, especially near Terra, where I would expect your main force to be concentrated?”

“Correct Tai-sa.”

"When do the Captain-General and the Chancellor plan on launching this assault?"

"February of next year, though we would see the DCMS striking in March, once the AFFC was focused on our assaults."

“I will need to take this to the Coordinator for approval immediately, as you will need to do in the case of the Captain-General.”  Hohiro stood, quickly followed by Edgar.  “Until we meet again Sir Halas.”  Hohiro bowed, which Edgar immediately responded to, but by the time he raised his head and moved to respond, Hohiro was already passing through the doorway.

That was sudden.  What does he know and why the ready agreement?  That should have been harder?  Still, we have what we need, though the cost will certainly raise some eyebrows on Atreus.  Time to get moving.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on June 05, 2014, 11:04:34 PM

End of month maps.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Shadow_Wraith on June 05, 2014, 11:49:21 PM

 ;D Nice update.  Glad to see that the FWL government is more concerned with the reunited FC than the appearance of additional Clan's on the FC border and what would happen if the FC forces can't stop them.  Looking forward to your next one and hopefully no more computer issues!!

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on June 06, 2014, 12:05:02 AM

Thanks, this little rig seems to be working well.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Takiro on June 06, 2014, 12:16:43 PM

Wonder what ComStar will think about all this?

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Hessian on June 06, 2014, 01:47:15 PM

Quote from: Takiro on June 06, 2014, 12:16:43 PM

Wonder what ComStar will think about all this?

Me too...
Is Frederick St...ahem.... Anastasius Focht still ComStar's Precentor Martial?

Ciao
Hessian

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Dragon Cat on June 06, 2014, 03:31:55 PM

Just caught up with this - I'm thinking what are the Nova Cats doing becoming overlords of the Pesht Military District?  That's quite an expansion I wasn't expecting also possibly setting themselves up  :'(

At the moment I'm not sure what to think do the Wolves want the Ghost Bear OZ as well since the Bears look pretty pressed, the Jags are surrounded and the Vipers look like a very thin blue line other than an OZ.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on June 06, 2014, 05:21:04 PM

Quote from: Hessian on June 06, 2014, 01:47:15 PM

Quote from: Takiro on June 06, 2014, 12:16:43 PM

Wonder what ComStar will think about all this?

Me too...
Is Frederick St...ahem.... Anastasius Focht still ComStar's Precentor Martial?

Ciao
Hessian

Fred's dead and ComStar is in shock and looking to itself.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Knightmare on June 08, 2014, 09:19:14 AM

After the snubbing they took removing the WoB, I don't expect ComStar to do much except offer a nice, "stay the heck away from Terra" message should any of the Great Houses come too close.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Takiro on June 08, 2014, 10:05:18 AM

They still control the HPGs presumably and after having the FWL attack Terra might not be too fond of Marik moves into the Terran March.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Knightmare on June 08, 2014, 05:40:55 PM

Quote from: Takiro on June 08, 2014, 10:05:18 AM

They still control the HPGs presumably and after having the FWL attack Terra might not be too fond of Marik moves into the Terran March.

Not sure they have the strength to lend. Even then, supporting the FC is short-term thinking. ComStar needs to distance itself from the Houses, not get more involved. Besides, there's still the Clans to contend with.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on June 08, 2014, 06:07:48 PM

ComStar is wreck  very gun shy. They only have 6 regiments in the corridor and need those on Terra,

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Dragon Cat on June 08, 2014, 07:17:45 PM

An HPG interdiction could keep the FWL in check but also bing guns on Terra surprised the Clans weren't more pissed when the FWL attacked Terra before

Then again Fochts dead.  ComStar can't enforce the truce.  Grand Council we don't care about any truce

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Takiro on June 08, 2014, 11:08:19 PM

I hear ya Blacknova but could I point out some events from your timeline.

Feb-58   Word of Blake attacks Terra
May-58   Terra becomes a blood bath as C* and hidden WoB forces battle to death
Mar-59   Campaign for Terra ends. WoB destroyed and ComStar has only 24 Div and 18 WS
Jun-59   ComStar "cleanses" Gibson of WoB.
Oct-59   FWLN Operation STARLING strike Terra in large naval battle. 8 C* vessels lost before FLWN withdraws

Now we are at the end of 3062 and yeah helping the Federated Commonwealth is short term thinking but can ComStar afford to think long term? The FWL has just attacked it directly and if Thomas is still in charge you could say twice. In either event the new Order isn't going to look kindly on further nearby aggression. Fear can be a powerful motivator. Better to play the long game after you survive today, don't you think?

What did ComStar and the Word of Blake have in common? They hate the Clans. Looking to heal wounds with a common cause is a smart play.

But there is admittedly a lot I don't know. Was the cleansing of Gibson approved by the FWL? Did some of Thomas True Believer friends like Blaine fall to the ComGuards? Is the League currently under interdiction for the attack on Terra or WoB support?

Plus Victor might be redeploying a lot of troops through the Terran Corridor and crushing the FWL could dissuade other adventurers.

Just some of my thoughts

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on June 08, 2014, 11:14:36 PM

Despite your points above, C* has 6 regiments on Terra and 12 WarShips in system.  They would not weaken that defence one jot on the face of FWLM assaults nearby, they cannot afford to.  They have an agreement with the FRR for troops and could pull them back, ut with the Clans getting aggressive, they will likely stay there.

Terra is a frenzy of activity.  Titan is coming fully on line and the factories on Terra are running all out.  ComStar plans on rebuilding, but has a long way to go and cannot afford to antagonise any great power any further.  They have pulled their heads in and wont get adventurous until the new fleet begins launching and the Guards grow some.

Thomas's actions were a direct tit-for-tat retaliation for Gibson.  He hit only with WarShips, which sent a signal without descending into all out war.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Takiro on June 08, 2014, 11:47:46 PM

Think of Victor going public with Thomas identity with ComStar ' s help you could cause a Civil War easy.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: drakensis on June 09, 2014, 12:42:15 AM

Except that that would smear ComStar worse than they are already. Without Focht (and his rep as saviour of the Inner Sphere from the clans) they're less able to shift blame to Waterly than they used to be. Victor might do that, but ComStar wouldn't really be inclined to do anything but cringe if that was publicised.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Dragon Cat on June 09, 2014, 01:16:26 AM

Quote from: Takiro on June 08, 2014, 11:47:46 PM

Think of Victor going public with Thomas identity with ComStar ' s help you could cause a Civil War easy.

FedComs ace in hole if FWL goes nuts and invades

Vic spills his guts about Thomas and FWL implodes, most likely Capellans, Magistracy and Marian's attack them and FedCom gets to laugh a lot

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on June 09, 2014, 01:38:37 AM

Here are some questions I answered on CBT that may help.
I got pm'd the following questions, but I thought I would answer them here so everyone gets the answers.

Quote

hm, you're doing very well so far, but isn't that a bit easy? :)

Yep, not a fan of the WoB and getting into the heads of religious fanatics is not my cup of tea.

Quote

Even without Terra and Gibson, WoB still ...
- has (or at least is short of gaining) control over the mothballed warship assets at Ross, Luyten an Ruins of Gabriel - without ComStar knowing of this. Including at least two NewGrange-class factory ships (Erinyes and Blake's Mercy). Erinyes is transformed into that asteroid throwing planet-killer.

Not in this AU.  The Blood and the Hidden Five do not exist, they are just a moon, not a space station, and 4 torched worlds.

Quote

- already has (or at least is short of gaining) control over the production/repair assets at Ruins of Gabriel (warship)

See above

Quote

- is gaining more and more control over the CircFed, since President McIntyre's Son Calvin is recruited by 6th of June (and maybe even already transformed into a Manei Domini). Especially since WoB didn't get their hands on Terra, and Gibson is lost ... they probably look for some other place to build their ground troops weaponry. Maybe in the CircFed?

Any influence they had just evaporated as they can't back it up anymore with regiments or production.  The various sects are going to war with themselves, making the FWL HPG network a bit of a mess and having Thomas consider a reconciliation with ComStar so that his state's communications don't fall apart.

The WoB is a skeleton crew now, as every spare body that was not A-list critical to running the HPG's was pushed into uniform once ComStar showed it would not roll over and die on Terra.

Quote

- already has (or at least is short of gaining) control over the rest of the hidden Five, including the production assets for Manei Domini and Magic Bullet bioweapons.

See above and with no Blood there are no MD cyber-soldiers

Quote

- has definitely infiltrated a very big part of the FWL, including the government, warship crews, ground forces and FWL intelligence.

ROM made inroads, but had fractured like the rest of the WoB and is too busy killing its own.  By 3065 ROM and Wob will have finished themselves off as viable threats.

Quote

- has control over every little piece of information the arrives in or leaves the FWL.

Yeah, but so does ComStar

Quote

- is gaining an aaaaaaawful amount of Credits in the FWL - and the worst part: absolutely noone knows of this.

And are pissing it up the wall in a zealot inspired holy civil war.

Quote

- already has (or at least is short of gaining) control over RWR Outpost #27, an eight inhabitable systems RWR-District, where Amaris trained his troops for the charge against the Hegemony. At least two of those systems had a production yard for warships.

Not in this universe

Quote

- has still solidly infiltrated ComStar and is since at least 5 years busy deleting alot of information in the ComStar archieves (about the Five, RWR Outpost #27 and I-don't-know-what-else).

True, but the same civil war has spilled out of the League, allowing ComStar to arrow in on many WoB ROM agents.  Alos, the fractured nature of ROM leaves very little coordination for ROM info coming in, so there is not a hell of a lot that can be done with it.

Quote

- has knowledge of the Superjump technology.

Not much use to them, unless they want to flee and strand themselves at the same time.  They have no military, so it does not do them a lot of good.

Quote

I still say sooner or later this will become a problem in your AU :)

Not if I don't let it, which through the outline above, pretty much neuters them.

Quote

(from my personal point of view WoB was made waaayyyy too powerful)

That was a canon in universe necessity to get from the FCCW to the end of the Jihad and match the DA setting data.

Quote

although not in the short term. WoB wasn't ready to kill the Clans when they saw themselves forced to start the Jihad, and without Terra and Gibson it will take them even longer now until they're ready to go. So the Master won't try anything stupid anytime soon.

They have no hope and the Master does not exist, as the Blood and Hidden don't either.  Thomas is dead or really is the FWL Thomas, I have not decided yet, but either way it does not really matter.

Quote

I already thought about how to get rid of them... because WoB is so deeply in everything it isn't quite easy :/

They are toast in this AU.  Sure there will be some fringe nutters hanging about, but in a generation, they will be a historical footnote.

Quote

Maybe if you need at some point in your story a time-out for the Inner Sphere, because the Clans are busy with themselves.

Nobody is getting a timeout in the naughty chair until I bury them.  I will be giving coverage to both Clan and IS factions as needed as the story develops.

Quote

ComStar gets knowledge that someone is deleting heavily in their archives, finds out it is WoB, Anastasius contacts fake Thomas, and Thomas admits that he's already fighting an (ineffective) war against his alter ego, named the Master. And Anastasius assembles a multinational Force to get rid of WoB (worked against the Jaguars, so why not against WoB).

Focht is dead, killed at Titan by the FWL during their naval strike and with no Blood or Master, this is not really necessary.

Quote

although ... the way you are writing now you'll find probably something better than that ;)

That's very kind of you to say, but as you can see from the notes above, the WoB will kill off most of what is left of themselves and Thomas will be forced to make a deal with ComStar.

Thanks for all of your comments and interest, it did force me to consider some tings that I had not until this point and I hope you enjoy reading the remainder of the story.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: fitzgerald on June 09, 2014, 03:55:04 AM

Is the TC being run by the semi sane Calderon?  Or has Grover Sharplen taken over?

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on June 09, 2014, 03:57:34 AM

The rational one, Crazy Thomas's last son.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Takiro on June 09, 2014, 06:00:50 AM

That does bring a lot of insight Blacknova, thank you! Just looking to give ya some suggestions while looking forward to seeing more.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on April 06, 2015, 03:40:15 AM

OK, been a while on this one, but off we go again.  This is just a short chapter to bring everyone back up to speed.

-8-
25th of December, 3062
Clan Wolf Command Centre
Tamar, Clan Wolf Occupation Zone

“So saKhan Pryde, it would seem we have the Ghost Bear’s attention?”  Khan Phelan Kell said with a wry smile, as he looked through the command centre’s holotank at his recently recalled saKhan.

“It would Khan Kell, and they appear to be taking the matter most seriously, especially considering that both the Rasalhague and Leviathan have been in action over Satalice and wreaked havoc with Gamma Naval Star.”  saKhan Pryde answered with little emotion in her voice, her recent recall to Tamar from the front lines having made her usual dour disposition now somewhat more frosty than usual.  Though Khan Kell had been adamant that her recall had nothing to do with the stalled and now chaotic offensive in the Coreward sector of the Ghost Bear/Wolf boarder, it still galled her to be here.  However, if the Wolf defensive efforts in the Edgeward end of the border fell through, Tamar would be an interesting place in a month or two, as the Bear offensive, using troops that might otherwise have been used profitably against the Smoke Jaguars, was a fifty-fifty proposition for success.

Kell nodded and saKhan Pryde was able to see the red in his eyes through the glare of the holotank, mute testimony to the Khan’s long days since Clan Ghost Bear reacted to Marthe’s spoiling offensive.  “The Ghost Bears have certainly done what we wished by focusing on us, instead of Clan Smoke Jaguar, but their inability to do two things at once has us expending supplies and fighting for the short term future of the Clan.  We need to end this fight soon, but without loss of face, otherwise we will be in a position where we cannot supply our forces in the field.”

Marthe shrugged her shoulders, “If we can keep the pressure on and consolidate our troops where we need them, we can force the Bears into realising that the cost of the campaign so far is only a taste of what to expect if they go over onto a general offensive.  I think they may realise this already: Khan Jorgensen is nobody’s fool.”

Marthe thought back over the war so far, one started to divert the Ghost Bear’s attention from the hard-pressed Smoke Jaguars and prevent them from becoming the preeminent Clan in the Inner Sphere.  She had done her task, with troops that were not the match of those they were engaging, with the worlds of Holmsbu and Last Frontier falling quickly, though her other strikes meet with less than stellar success during the fighting in October.  What made matters worse was the general Ghost Bear withdrawal from Jaguar space late that month, once the Bears began their tantrum over what they saw as Wolf interference in their own private war, seeming to forget that they had done the same to the Jaguars in their war with the Nova Cats.  By November, the war began to expand and intensify, as the Wolves attempted to meet their initial aims of cutting the Bear’s corridor in half, whilst both sides reinforced and the Bears struck at the Wolves right down the entire border.   The Ghost Bear’s focus was a drive on Tamar by forces near the Tukayyid line, something the Wolf Clan could not ignore.  By the end of November, the Wolves had taken Holmsbu, but lost Susquehanna and Thannhausen, with the Bears fighting hard across the Spinward border area. 

Khan Kell then gambled with the Vipers by dispatching elements of Alpha and Beta into the fight south of Tamar, which stabilized the fighting there, recovering Thannhausen and gaining Utrecht, though Heiligendruez was lost in the south and Balsta fell in the north.  What was most devastating was the arrival of the two of the Ghost Bear’s three Leviathan-class Battleships over Satalice, where the entirety of Clan Wolf’s Gamma Naval Star, a Texas, two Black Lions, a Cameron and an Aegis were annihilated before the Bear ships jumped back to Alshain, heavily damaged but still fully operational.  The fact that the two ships made a single strike and then departed the war zone was notable for Marthe, as she took it to mean the Bears had set their own limits on how far they wished to take this war.

Marthe waved her hand at the map in front of her, “Khan Kell, we need to consolidate right along the border and end this war.  I suggest that we launch a strike to reclaim Heiligendruez, which barring additional Bear forces arriving in the region, should stabilise that section of the font, as we have the troops in theatre we require.  In the north, I suggest we Last Frontier and Holmsbu to reinforce the worlds we are already fighting on and look to reclaim Susquehanna and Balsta, whilst still endeavouring to take Trondheim for one more month, pulling off if we cannot secure it.”

Phelan smiled at Marthe and walked around the holotank to her, placing his hand on her shoulder, “Some days Marthe, I feel you are beginning to read my mind, but I agree.  With the Vipers moving material towards the FedCom border we can afford to keep the pressure on for a little longer, especially with two Galaxies arriving from the Homeworlds in February.  Even if the Bears are successful over the coming eight to twelve weeks, they will face ten fresh Clusters whose deployment will not compromise our other OZ dispositions.”

Marthe felt awkward with the sudden praise and physical contact from her Khan, being as formal and staid as she was and did not know how to respond.  Kell chuckled, “Don’t worry Marthe, no need to say anything, you’re not the type for words, especially those that have more than a military meaning.”

Marthe nodded and moved on quickly, then turned and moved to one of the bench seats that circled the holotank.  She picked up a data pad, which doubled as a controller for the holotank and tapped the screen a few times, “I would like to provide some thoughts on what is happening more broadly as well Kahn Kell.  I believe the wider conflicts may have some bearing on our own position.”

Kell smiled down at his saKhan and allowed her to forge on without hinting that he was aware of her discomfort, “Of course Marthe, your advice on those matters will be most appreciated.”

Marthe nodded once, crossed her legs and brought new data to life within the holotank, which now showed the Nova Cat, Smoke Jaguar and Draconis Combine territories.  “Khan Kell, as you are aware, the Ghost Bears withdrew from the Smoke Jaguar Occupation Zone with no worlds permanently changing hands, however, the Jaguars have now established an exclusive OZ between the Cats and the Bears.  This OZ is narrow closer to Terra, however, it has a solid base around Schuyler and has forced the Nova Cats into holding the flank themselves.  The Smoke Jaguars now control twenty-four systems with forty-two Clusters and twelve WarShips, allowing them to consolidate their strength somewhat, though the losses in naval vessels they have suffered, six in all, has weakened their overall position somewhat.”

“Much like us eh saKhan?”  Kell responded.

Marthe shrugged, “Not so much as we have a larger fleet, though we have lost six and captured two, the Nova Cats lost six as well and captured the Korat from the Jaguars, with the Bears losing three and Combine having lost one.”

“Twenty WarShips in three months is significant.”

“Yes it is my Khan, but not unexpected as doctrine over their use evolves.”

“True,” answered Kell, “go on.” He prompted his saKhan.

Marthe continued as though no interruption had occurred, “Clan Smoke Jaguar has also begun strikes into the Draconis Combine over the past weeks, with fourteen Clusters from Alpha, Beta and Delta Galaxies.  Seven worlds were targeted, all this side of the Truce Line, with an eighth, Dummaring, bypassed, though it will be cut off if the other worlds are all taken.  It would appear that Clan Smoke Jaguar is moving up hard on the Truce Line as a sign of their intent to lead the next race to Terra.”

Kell crossed his arm and stared at the flashing icons od Combine worlds under assault, “And Khan Howell quelling dissent within his ranks.”

Marthe grunted, “That as well, the Jaguar Khan continues to impress me.”

“He is certainly no mindless savage, but keeping a leash on the savages he leads for the next five years will be a trial for him.” Returned Kell.

“Yes it will,” answered Marthe before continuing, “Clan Nova Cat now controls twenty-five worlds and is contesting another three with the Combine, though I expect them to continue to try and flank the DCMS beyond Lonaconning, as it is proving a profitable little war for them so far.  They have thirty-seven Clusters and twenty WarShips in the Inner Sphere, which they will need to expand should they wish to continue pressing the Dragon.”

Marthe paused for a moment, picked up a glass of water from the small table that sat between a gap in the long bench seat, took a sip and then continued.  “There appears to be several Galaxies en route from the Homeworlds, in addition to the two of ours, with the Watch reporting it likely the the Vipers, Horses, Hellions and Jaguars have troops on the move.”

“Everyone is planning for the future.”  Kell said

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on April 06, 2015, 03:43:00 AM

Maps for the start of January 3063.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Dragon Cat on April 06, 2015, 07:53:20 AM

Very nice (especially the maps) as always looks really good

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on April 07, 2015, 11:31:07 PM

Thanks, the next few will get interesting.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on April 08, 2015, 10:57:52 PM

OK, 14 maps covering January and February 3063 are available here:
https://www.mediafire.com/folder/ij747h7tnp2g3/Of_Flacons_and_Wolves (https://www.mediafire.com/folder/ij747h7tnp2g3/Of_Flacons_and_Wolves)

-9-
27th of February, 3063
Celestial Palace
Sian, Capellan Confederation

“And that, Prince Victor, you intolerable little prick, is how one goes about spanking a petulant child.”  Candace Liao leant back in her chair, steeplling her fingers and looking at the huge wall sized screen that sat across from her on the other side of the long teak table at which she sat.  Carvings of dragons and phoenixes decorated the table and matched the carvings on the room’s walls and ceiling and those cavorting in gold on the room’s burgundy carpet.

The map projected before her showed forty Federated Commonwealth worlds from Zavijava to Verdigries flashing red and with a quick flick of her wrist and the controller, the map jumped Coreward to show another dozen from Elume to Botany Bay flashing due to Clan assaults.  “And there is the icing on the cake you stupid little boy, courtesy of the House Liao and our friends in Clan Steel Viper.”

Candace’s exultations were disturbed as her brother Tormana Liao entered the room, “Gloating like father my dear sister, how it does become you.”

“Oh shut up Tormana!  We have been handed the opportunity to do to Davion what every Liao since Barbara has wanted to do, and I could not think of a smugger Davion to do it to.”  Candace’s voice was measured, but an undertone of heat lay within it.

Tormana, looking dapper and unruffled in a very dark green pin striped suit, dropped unceremoniously into the seat next to his older sister, “Of course dear sister-Chancellor, however, you do look like father when you do that.”

Candace dropped her hands and smiled, “I do, don’t I?  However, the fact remains that we may have given little Prince Perfect a situation he can’t deal with.”

Tormana leaned back as far as his chair would allow, then reached out and took the controller from his sister and brought the map back to centre on the Capellan Confederation.  “Perhaps Candace, but there is much that can still go wrong for us and our unreliable new allies.”  He pointed at the Taurian Concordat,  “For example, Protector Calderon does not trust us any more than he trusts the Davions and he would sink a knife in our back given half the chance.”

Candace shook her head, “He’s not that bad.”

Tormana shrugged and grimaced, “Perhaps, but those savages he leads would.  Nevertheless, he has deployed two to two and a half times what Davion has on the border and hit eleven worlds all at once.  I’m not sure if New Syrtis will be able to comprehend that size of an assault coming out of the Concordat, especially when our own offensives are added to the mix.”

“Prince Victor will comprehend enough and the key will be how the monster reacts.  If he even hints at behaving like he did on our former worlds in 3057, I’ll unleash a cocktail of weapons that will make Kali’s response seem measured and reasonable.”

Tormana levelled a flat stare at his sister, “He really did get under your skin back then, didn’t he?”

“Yes, he did,” she answered, paused and then continued, “It was his monumental arrogance and the assumption that his own actions against Liao guerrillas and troops were moderate and reasonable in light of what Kali did on New Aragon and his general attitude to Capellans in general.  I will not defend Kali’s actions, but his order to “…exterminate Liao sympathisers even suspected of supporting Kali…” and his support of his officer’s brutality against our people left me no choice but to face him down.  However, when he referred to St. Ives as his client state, that is patience with the House of Liao was running out and that he expected St. Ives to take all actions it could to support the Federated Commonwealth in ending the Capellan disease, I chose that moment to snap.”

Tormana laughed, “Snap is an understatement for what you said to him.”

Candace looked at her brother, “Perhaps, but from that moment the die was cast, though I do not think he ever realised what I planned.  Neither did Sun-Tsu, but then I have always found that few lack the vision to truly see where their actions will take them. Prince Davion might be learning and getting better at it, but the current war continues to show that he is still not the strategic thinker his father was.”

Tormana nodded and then changed the subject, “I have the preliminary reports on the various fronts and despite what you might think of some of our allies, they are performing well.”  Tormana waited to see if Candace would say something, when she did not, he zoomed the map into the Taurian section of the front. 

“As I said, the TDF hit eleven worlds, which was audacious, especially considering this is their first and largest offensive in centuries.”

Candace cocked her head and placed her hands on the dark table top, which caused her iridescent emerald robe to shimmer, “That is true, isn’t it, for all their bluster and steam, the Taurians rarely strike first.”

“First time for everything,” said Tormana, “However, they have managed to blood the AFFC’s nose and claim the worlds of Bromhead, Midale, Lindsay, Montour and Verdiegreis.  They have deployed fifteen Mech Regiments, six of them mercenary, seven Conventional Divisions and three Aerospace Regiments.  The AFFC, in my opinion, has the forces in the broader region to halt the TDF in a few months, however, by that stage the Taurians may have reclaimed most of what they lost in the Reunification War.  The TDF has lacked a bit of finesse in its advances, which is costing them, but I do believe, based on our intelligence, that the TDF can sustain it operations until October or November.  Just as importantly for the Taurians is that I expect their economy to drop by approximately 10-12% prosecuting this war, so the Protector won’t be able to fight for too long:  His people have become accustomed to certain living standards.”

Candace nodded slowly and reached out to pull across a copy of the notes Tormana was reading from.  “Do you think they can snatch Panpour as well?”

Tormana shook his head, “It is past the territory they once held and I don’t believe they would risk the justification of their “War to reclaim their lost worlds” by invading old Davion systems.  Protector Calderon was adamant on that point during the planning for the offensive.  He is a man of his word and a more stable and rational Taurian than we have been used to of late.”

Candace grimaced and dropped the folder, “Pity he lacks real ambition.  What of our assaults?”

Tormana beamed a smile at his sister, “As you are aware, we have dispatched thirty-one Mech Regiments, twenty-three of them House troops, twenty Conventional Divisions and eight Aerospace Regiments into Davion territory.  We have meet with stunning success in the drive towards Liao, nearly cut the Ziliang Salient in some rather bloody fighting and are currently stalled, but in a good position to begin cutting the Kittery Salient.”

“What have we taken?” Candace asked with a hard stare.

“Ten worlds: Frazer, Glentworth, Hunan, Jonzac, Kafr Silim, Pleione, Safe Port, St. Andre, Styk and Tsitsang.”

Candace laughed aloud and slapped her brother on the back, “Say that again.”

Tormana repeated himself and chuckled, “It does sound good, doesn’t it?”

“Yes.” responded Candace

“Oh, and there is something else you might like dear sister.”

“What is that?”  Candace gave Tormana a quizzical look.

Tormana clapped his hands twice and two members of the Prefecorate Guards entered, carrying what looked to be a large golden banner.  “In addition to destroying the 1st Kittery Training Battalion and the 8th Federated Commonwealth RCT,” the two soldiers then moved apart, raised the banner’s poles and started to walk away from each other, unveiling it, “your noble troops on Frazer have destroyed the Davion Assault Guards and taken their banners.”

Candace’s jaw dropped and remained there for a moment as she took in the banner before her, which showed the head of an Atlas set on a stylized version the Davion Royal Brigade's crest.  The banner was covered in battle honours from many wars against the foes of the Davions, including many in green, with worlds named in white and few in black, showing the victories and defeats the regiment had experienced against the Capellan Confederation.

“I thought you might like it.  I had is couriered here with the high value prisoners we have taken in the Ziliang Salient.”

Candace was still smiling, then she waved her hand and the two soldiers furled the banner and began to move from the room, “Yes, I do like it.  I think I might hang it in the Throne Room.  Now down to specifics.  How are the three assaults actually proceedings?”

Candace had always impressed Tormana with her ability to change track, but he was used to it and got back to his briefing.  “The assault towards Liao goes well and we should be able to link up with the advance of the Free Worlds by May or June, though I doubt we will be able to get ahead of them and regain Nanking.”

Candace pursed her lips before stating, “The price you pay for revenge.  We can deal with the League in future, if their current offensive is any indicator of their will for a real fight.”

Tormana leaned back, “True, though it would be nice to have Nanking’s resources.  Nevertheless, we hold Styk and the main line of Davion resistance has been clearly breached.  I expect all of our primary targets will fall, however, I do not think we will advance much beyond those due to resource constraints and AFFC reinforcements.  Nevertheless, our troops will be landing on Liao within a week.”

“What units have you dispatched?”

“Warrior House Dai Da Dhi, the Harloc Warriors and the 3rd Regiment of McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry and several supporting formations.”

“That should be sufficient.”  Responded Candace.

Tormana continued, “The assaults into Kittery have not met with the success of the other strikes, though I expect that to change by the end of the month.  Spica is presenting some issues, but we have the advantage on Kittery.  The main issues I see there is AFFC reinforcements arriving on Mentasta and Weekapaug and preventing a closure of the salient.  In that case I suggest we cut our losses and hold what we have around Kittery.”

“You don’t think we should push to ease the pressure on St. Ives.”  Candace’s attachment to St. Ives had led to her requiring an assault into the Kittery Salient.

“Whether we clear the Kittery area or not, the threat to St. Ives will be minimised for a considerable period of time.”

“Perhaps.” Candace responded, but her lack of further comment indicated that Tormana could proceed.

“”Further Edgeward, we have nearly cut the Ziliang Salient from the Federated Suns, with only Sirdar holding the corridor open.  I plan to dispatch additional units freed from our successful assaults in the region to assist in the fighting there, however, I also plan to hedge our bets and hit additional worlds nearby to make a second closure:  Cotoacallo, Abruzzi and Courcellete are the logical targets.”

Candace nodded, “And the head of the salient?”

“Fighting there has been heavy,” continued Tormana, “Some of Davion’s better regiments remained there despite the Clan threat.  The Federated Suns Armoured Cavalry has driven off the assault on Ziliang and I expect General Rennard to move the regiment and cause us no end of headaches before we put them down.”

“They are certainly an efficient regiment.” She paused, “It’s a pity they did not have the decency to suffer the same fate as the Assault Guards.  How are our logistics?”

Tormana, shifted in his seat as he reached for a new document.  “Tolerable, for now.  Supplying such a huge offensive was always going to be difficult and expenditures are at or about where they I predicted them to be, which is about 30% greater than what the staff had believed.  Currently, we have enough supplies on hand to maintain our offensive tempo for five, maybe six months.  After that, our ability to maintain any sort of combat actions will be severely curtailed.”

“Hence why I feel we may need to move on Nanking.  Every facility we can take is critical to our future needs and hang what the Captain-General thinks.”

“I disagree.” Said Tormana forcefully, “To throw aside our shaky alliance after a month will dam us and dam the effort to cut the Federated Commonwealth in half.  We can strike at Axton, Demeter and Tikonov if the AFFC falls apart, but if we strike at Nanking, the League will withdraw from the war and we will face the Davion armies on our own.”
Candace folded her arms, “You are right, but I don’t like it.  Nanking was our world thirty years ago and was one of our brightest jewels.”

“There will be other wars and the League cannot remain united for ever.” Tormana’s answer was delivered in a soothing tone: He genuinely sympathised with his sister, but the realities of the CCAF, it size and logistics had kept him firmly focused on the achievable.

Neither spoke for several minutes, then Candace seemed to wake up, “What of our other allies, how goes their wars?”

Tormana smiled, “You will be happy to know the Theodore Kurita has managed to put one over Thomas Marik.”

“Really, how delightful.”

“Yes, with the funds the Free Worlds provided to Kurita for mercenaries, he has bought up contracts for twenty regimental sized formations.  Twelve are poised to strike at the four targets the Combine has in the Terran Corridor and the other eight are on their merry way to the Clan border.”

Candace’s eyes narrowed, “He sends us all, and Prince Davion, a message.  He will use what force is necessary for the good of the Combine, shows that the Combine will be used by no one and lets us all know that in using mercenaries, his claim to those four worlds will be contingent upon his willingness to keep them contracted.  He believes by doing so he holds the key to controlling the flow of supplies through the corridor and can placate Davion, whilst remaining on our good side.”

Tormana raised his hands, “If you say so, but to me it was more of case of needing those troops against the Cats and Jaguars.”

Candace’s retort held heat, “I do say so because it is so. Now what of the offensives.”
Tormana, chastised and knowing that pressing the issue would be a lost cause continued, “The League has hit eight systems in to separate strikes, one aimed at Nanking, the other in the Terran Corridor. They have taken four worlds at little real cost to themselves, but I expect that the FWLM and the DCMS will face the full brunt of the AFFC counterattack.” 

He pressed a button on the controller and brought up a new map, which showed the area around Terra, with tow red lines running across it.  “Those worlds within those two red lines are the critical corridor for the AFFC.  They must keep that link clear, or mostly clear to ensure the safety and control of the link that joins the two halves of the Commonwealth.  The League now controls two – Thorin and Chara – and is fighting on another, whilst the Combine will strike at four more in February.  It is here that the war will be decided and here where the AFFC may well deploy WarShips, which the FWLN will handily dispatch.”

Candace harrumphed, “That is if the League keeps its gander up.  I have limited faith in their ability to go the distance in a real fight.”

“As do I.” Answered Tormana, “The DCMS’s arrival should give them some backbone.”
Candace changed tack again, “And what of our colleagues on the Clan Front?  They best be seeing success as getting them to agree to strike when we did was a master class in diplomacy with base idiots.”

Candace thought back on the eleven months of discussions with the Steel Vipers and later Ice Hellions and Hell’s Horsmen.  Strategic thinking was not their forte, but the Horses at least saw the benefits and were able to talk the Vipers around.  The Hellions followed from there, but there were at least two dozen times the discussions nearly fell apart, and all the Capellans had asked for was to launch any future assaults in concert with the strikes to close the Terran Corridor.  “We are never negotiating with Clansmen again, they are too stupid by half.”

Tormana smirked ruefully, “A least the ones we dealt with were.  Still, they are efficient little killers and have, it would appear, taken three worlds apiece from the Lyrans, with more to come.  I doubt the Hellions or Horses will go far, as they did not appear to have much in the way of force deployed to the Inner Sphere, however, the Vipers looked to be of use to us, at least until the most recent news from the Combine arrived stating that the Wolves and Bear had stopped fighting.”

Candace grunted, “Can’t trust a Clansmen to do what is needed.  Kell’s peace has the Vipers watching their back no doubt.  Still, as long as they kill a few Davions and Steiners and take a few worlds, it will keep much of the Federated Commonwealth’s strength focused on the Clan front and not against us.”

Tormana zoomed the map out to take in the entire Inner Sphere, “True dear sister, very true indeed.”

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: barbarossa rotbart on April 09, 2015, 04:43:08 AM

What the Hell?

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on April 09, 2015, 05:27:26 AM

Yeah, the FedCom just got multi-kicked in the bollocks.

However, Victor is his father's son and his response will be epic.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: barbarossa rotbart on April 09, 2015, 05:34:02 AM

I don't like it.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on April 09, 2015, 06:40:17 AM

What specifically don't you like and why?  I only ask as criticism is better then praise in tryig to improve.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: barbarossa rotbart on April 09, 2015, 06:57:40 AM

The changes to the FedCom. The fact that the friendship of Victor and Hohiro and Omiko is dead. The fact that Candace turned into an enemy of the FedCom.
EDIT: And the Taurians being strong enough to take worlds from the FedCom.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Ice Hellion on April 09, 2015, 01:27:29 PM

Quote from: Blacknova on April 09, 2015, 05:27:26 AM

Yeah, the FedCom just got multi-kicked in the bollocks.

However, Victor is his father's son and his response will be epic.

The Davion Assault Guards destroyed?

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on April 09, 2015, 03:48:41 PM

Quote from: barbarossa rotbart on April 09, 2015, 06:57:40 AM

The changes to the FedCom. The fact that the friendship of Victor and Hohiro and Omiko is dead. The fact that Candace turned into an enemy of the FedCom.
EDIT: And the Taurians being strong enough to take worlds from the FedCom.

OK, well they are more dislikes.

This universe is not built for the super friends.  Kai is depressed and killing folk on Solaris, Victor got his **** together and does not need to have his hand held by rulers and others from other nations, he is a true Successor Lord now, Candace has gone Liao because Victor went cold.  Hohiro, Omi and Theodore are working to keep their asses in power against the Black Dragons, who are not a major threat yet, but have been recognized by them.

The conventional forces assigned to each nation are all on the same ratio, so force levels remain the same.  The TC always had the ability, it just lacked the desire.  With the CC on the front foot, the option for invading is suddenly a good one.

I understand the changes in this AU are not for everyone, but this is the reality a unified FC would face.  It is just too strong not to try and take down, hence why TPTB dismembered it in canon.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Ice Hellion on April 09, 2015, 05:02:45 PM

Quote from: Blacknova on April 09, 2015, 03:48:41 PM

The TC always had the ability, it just lacked the desire.  With the CC on the front foot, the option for invading is suddenly a good one.

 ::)

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Shadow_Wraith on April 09, 2015, 09:02:58 PM

I just want more of the story from you!   ;D

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on April 09, 2015, 09:15:23 PM

Working on it.  March is shaping up to be interesting and April just as much...oh and then there is that surprise twist I have been planning as well.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on April 18, 2015, 05:10:11 PM

-10-
4th of March, 3063
Clan Star Adder Council Chamber
Katyusha, Strana Mechty, Clan Homeworlds

The Council Chamber of Clan Star Adder on Strana Mechty was as utilitarian as the Clan that built it, where other Clans ornamented or architecturally enhanced their chamber to show the grandeur, strength or attributes of their Clan, the Adders simply built a hall and filled it with what they required, no more.  Red ironstone was the material of choice for the structure, with benches of light Arcadian Gum, polished to a high sheen, and a simple dais at one end of the chamber.  That was all the Star Adder’s required, not even a single banner of their Clan adorned the chamber.

For the meeting of the sixteen Clan Khans present in the hall, the same number of seats, made from the same polished gum that graced the benches in the hall, were placed on the dais in a rough semi-circle.  Upon each was a tan cushion and upon each cushion sat a Khan or a saKhan from the eight Clans gathered, all dressed in simple fatigues, belying the importance of the meeting.

Khan Cassius N’Buta, Khan of Clan Star Adder, sat in the middle of the semi-circle of chairs, his visage impassive as he surveyed the faces of those who sat before him.  So fractious, yet so much potential combined.  He raised his head slightly, “My fellow Khans, I have asked you here tonight to answer any final questions you may have, discuss our plans for tomorrow one last time and to conduct the bidding for our targets in the coming campaign.

The coming campaign, thought Cassius, over a decade in the making and one that will tear us down the middle, casting out those who no longer belong as part of the unity.  Cassius’s mind looked back over the series of events that lead to this room and the decisions he had taken to bring these Khans and their Clans together.  It was that fateful meeting to determine who would invade.  Had they listened to me, had we all cooperated as we had under Nicholas Kerensky in the Pentagon campaign, the unity would not have been severed.  That was the start, followed by the Invader’s arrogance and hubris and it’s physical expression on the bloody fields of Tukayyid and the resulting Truce.  They could have called us then, recognised their folly and called us forward to take the remaining systems above the Truce line, but instead they fought amongst themselves, working together only to keep us out, unless we were lap dogs like the Sharks and Horses, or independent hotheads like the Hellions.  The Wolves and Falcons though, their war and its results ended any doubt amongst these Khans here tonight about what the Invading Clans were becoming.

saKhan Drake Linn of Clan Burrock, his old and weathered face grim spoke first, “I feel we should begin the bidding for target Clans now.”

Khan Lynn McKenna of Clan Snow Raven responded, a sneer in her voice, “The spoils you so desperately seek can be fought over later, we need to ensure the vote tomorrow goes to plan.”  The Burrock saKhan was ready to respond, but she talked over him, “Khan N’Buta, I assume you have ensured that not only those present here, but at least one other Clan is willing to vote for your election tomorrow?”

The Adder Khan nodded his dark head once, “I have, and by playing the base instincts of the Diamond Sharks to our favour.”

“What did you offer them, not that it matters anyway?”  Asked Silias Kufal, saKhan of the Coyotes.

“I assured them, that should I be elected ilKhan, the Home Clans would trade with the Invaders as a block and we would require the Diamond Sharks as middle men.”

Khan Din Steiner of Clan Cloud Cobra shook his gaunt and long head, “I expect the Diamond Sharks were unseemly in their haste to agree to such a proposal?”

“They were Khan Steiner, only highlighting how far they have fallen.”

“They have all fallen far, else we would not be here.”  This from saKhan Danyalla Sainze of the Fire Mandrills.

“Precisely,” said Karianna Schmitt, Khan of Clan Blood Spirit, “the eradication of their taint from the Homeworlds will begin a new era for all our people, a new era of brotherhood.”

“More dreams Schmitt.”  The Burrock saKhan said, leering at the Blood Spirit across the circle from him.

“Your Clan is lucky not to be counted amongst the fallen Burrock, and we reserve the right to test your right to exist after this war!”  Khan Schmitt barked back.

Khan Schmitt was referring to the recent Burrock Civil War, which saw a faction of Clan Burrock, which had apparently been in collusion with the Dark Caste, wiped out by its fellows, who then reported to the Grand Council.  The Burrocks had survived an Absorption Vote by a fair margin, after a thorough investigation, but there were many Clans who now had a great distrust for Clan Burrock.  However, the Khan of Clan Star Adder was impressed with the ruthless efficiency the Burrocks loyal to the Grand Council had shown in cleansing their Clan.  They are a new Clan to all intents and purposes and out to prove it as well.  They will be a useful tool in the war to come.

Before the Burrock saKhan could respond, Cassius spoke quietly, “My fellow Khans, if we are to achieve our goal of driving out the fallen Clans, the Invaders, from the Homeworlds in one action, then we must operate with more unity then you are displaying.  Without unity, we cannot rebuild that which has fallen so far.”

Khan Nathan Ravenwater of Clan Fire Mandrill lifted his right hand palm upwards as he spoke, “The Adder Khan’s words are truth trothkin, something we in the Clan Fire Mandrill have learnt through bitter trial and loss.  If we eight Clans here today can stand united, there is no force in the Homeworlds that can stand against our rightful campaign.”

“Thankyou Khan Ravenwater,” said Cassius, “Your wise words hold the truth of the matter before us.  We must be united in our cause tomorrow in the chamber, even though we are to be the only Khans, bar those of the Diamond Sharks, present on Strana Mechty for the vote for an ilKhan tomorrow.”

Khan Lynn McKenna spoke again, “It will be the final line in the story of their fall from grace, that the invaders agreed to your proposal Khan Star Adder, your test of their honour, that an election of an ilKhan could be done virtually and not in person.  The lack of their presence will make our task so much easier.”

“Seyla.” Said the Snow Raven saKhan, Bryn Cooper, as others around the circle nodded.

Cassius continued, “However, you all need, should you still so wish it, to vote for me tomorrow, as previously discussed.  Only then can we set our plans properly in motion.”

Kieran Telinov, saKhan of Clan Cloud Cobra answered for all those present, “Your wisdom and foresight has been recognised by all here: No other could lead us or would be suffered by these sixteen Khans to lead us.”  The other Khans nodded or quietly added words of support for the saKhan’s statement and once they settled he continued, “I have but one question of you.  Who will be the new Star Adder Khan?”

Cassius looked to his saKhan, “The ever deadly and efficient saKhan Paik has asked to remain as saKhan and I plan to nominate Stanislov N’Buta as the new Adder Khan, though the Clan Council will need to confirm the nomination against any others.”

The Cobra Khan nodded once, folded his arms and sat back I his chair, “A suitable choice on both accounts.”

Cassius waited for several moments to see if there were any other questions or comments from the assembled Khans.  When none were forthcoming, he moved on, “Before tomorrow, and to aid in our bidding this evening, we need to have a final accounting of our strengths.”  He reached into a pocket on the outside of his fatigues and withdrew a device. 

“This will be the only recording of our discussions here tonight, to be entered into the official Clan records following the Council session tomorrow.”  He thumbed the button to start the recorder and placed it upon the floor in front of his chair. 

Leaning back up, he continued, “To begin with, I Khan Cassius N’Buta, do hear by declare that Clan Star Adder possess 6,972 Points of troops in fifty-two Clusters, supported by eighteen WarShips, with four more under construction or refurbishment.  We hold an additional 3,024 Points of reserve materials and near to graduation sibko cadets.”  Let you all realise the strength of the Star Adder and know our leadership is one not only of vision and learning, but one also of strength and power, thought Cassius to himself as he watched the other Khans digest the news of the Adder’s strength. 

Hovering in the air above the recording device, a holographic projection appeared, showing the symbols of the eight Clans present to the left of the projection, arranged vertically, a dividing line, running top to bottom and then the symbols of the eight invading Clans to the right.  Next to the Star Adder icon, 6972/3024 – 18/4 appeared.

“Your Clan has grown strong Khan N’Buta, I look forward to it leading the assaults against the fallen.”  Khan Karianna Schmitt said.

“That is what I plan for Khan Schmitt.”  Cassius paused for a moment, “Khan Steiner, how fare the Cobras in their preparations?”  Clan Cloud Cobra, you were amongst the first to support my vision and you believe that the Invaders have fallen from the Way and that a new path needs forging.  Under an Adder ilKhan, you believe your Clan will find the means to bring all the Clans to The Way, with the more practical of you also seeing the chance for great material gain.

The Cobra Khan sat straighter as he answered, “Clan Cloud Cobra fields 4,308 Points within our Touman, in twenty-two Clusters and with a reserve of thirteen Clusters of material and sibko cadets, about 3,000 more Points.  Our naval strength is eighteen WarShips with two more Fredesa’s under construction and an Aegis and a Potemkin from our naval cache undergoing refurbishment.  The latter are being prepared in order to maintain our position relative to the Ravens, now they are constructing new WarShips at a prodigious rate. 

Ah yes, the Raven’s and their little naval race.  The unification of the Wolves and Falcons suddenly made you only the second strongest naval power in the Clans, Cassius looked at Khan McKenna as he thought.  That was something you could not allow, it struck at the key aspect of your Clan’s power.  Since then you have begun a massive construction and refurbishment program, one that may well break your economy and has made your Clan and your rule unstable and reactive.  You also forced every other Clan to invest, or reinvest, in naval armaments and have begun a naval race amongst us.  Your Ravens soon came on side when I approached you with my plans, as your desperate need for resources to fuel your naval growth has driven you to be more than willing to strike opportunistically.

“Think what you want you want Cobra, our construction program is not for your approval or disapproval.”  Khan McKenna leant forward as she barked her reply.
 
Before a shouting match could development between any of the assembled Khans, Khan N’Buta spoke, again softly, forcing the other Khans to quieten down to listen to him.  “We are not here to discuss the particulars of any one Clan’s efforts to strengthen itself, as we are all here to strengthen the true Clans as a whole.  We must put our short term considerations aside and work to end the taint of the fallen Clans within the Homeworlds, else those Clans gathered here tonight will surely perish.”

Silence met his words, as each Khan too stock of where events had brought them too, some with more clarity than others.

“Very well,” Cassius continued, working his way around the semi-circle “Khan McKenna, how do the Ravens stand?”

Khan McKenna shot a look at the Cloud Cobra Khans before answering, “Clan Snow Raven currently deploys a fleet of forty-four vessels, nine of which are Battleships and Battlecrusiers, with ten more vessels building or refitting, four of those being Battleships and Battlecrusiers.  Our Clan also fields 4,128 Points of troops in twenty-four Clusters with a supporting and reserve body of 1,200 Points.”

The Raven Khan sat back with a smug look, as her saKhan smiled.  The look on some of the assembled Khan’s faces over the scale of the Raven naval program had been something both Khans had been looking forward to.

“Thankyou Khan McKenna, I am sure we can fund gainful use for your expanding war fleet.”  Especially when it’s costs break your Clan, he thought before moving on.

“Khan Schmitt, how fares the Clan Blood Spirit.”  When Clans Ice Hellion and Hell’s Horses departed for the Inner Sphere in 3060, along with the merchant manoeuvrings of Clan Diamond Shark, it only added fuel to the fire of your Clan’s hate for the Invaders, which was already fierce and strong.  Such feelings aided in my efforts to sway you, despite your hostility to most other Clans.  Keeping your attention and focus will now be the issue.

Karianna Schmitt squared her shoulders, “Clan Blood spirit fields 4,608 Points in forty-six Clusters.” several Clans murmured at the strength of the Spirits, as none expected such strength to be held by the isolationist Clan.  “We also hold reserve materials sufficient to outfit 1,236 Points and six WarShips, with a seventh reactivating.”

“You hide your strength, but then the Spirit’s have never been open and your numbers will be a welcome addition in the campaigns to come.” Flattery never hurts, thought N’Buta as Khan Schmitt inclined her head and said nothing, despite the looks she was receiving from the Burrock Khans.

In order to head off a rash comment from the Burrocks, N’Buta looked to Khan Sienna Holliday.  “Khan Holliday, what is the Burrocks current strength?”

“We hold 3,630 Points and another 2,064 is reserve.” Your civil war cost you much, was Cassius’s thought at the Burrock’s admissions.

“What of your WarShips and Cluster numbers?”  He asked.

“We field thirty Clusters, possess fifteen active WarShips and are working on another four.”

Cassius paused as he examined the Burrock Khan, A Clan ever eager to rise up on the ruin of others, you see a war against the invaders as the perfect vehicle for expansion.  I see the war as the perfect test of your new Clan, to see if it is as deceitful as it once was, or if it has changed for the better.

“Thankyou Khan Holliday.  Khan Ravenwater, what of the reunified Fire Mandrills?”  You recently unified Clan Fire Mandrill, Khan Nathan Ravenwater; no mean feat for a former Hell’s Horseman.  You need an opportunity to test your troops, without suffering from counter-strikes from other Clans.  The eminent practicality of our plan and the war to come brought you on side faster than I thought possible.

The dignified Khan Ravenwater acknowledged the Adder Khan with a nod and stood, “Khan N’Buta, my Fire Mandrills currently deploy 3,720 Points in thirty-one Clusters, with a further 1,854 Points in stores and reserves.  We hold nine WarShips and a renovating a tenth.”  Ravenwater then sat.

“Clan Coyote?”  N’Buta asked, looking to the Coyote Khans.

“5,040 Points in thirty-five Clusters, 2,400 reserve Points, seventeen WarShips, two of which are undergoing activation.”

Short and to the point, if only all Clans meetings were so succinct. N’Buta supressed a smile, When I  pointed out how far those in the Inner Sphere had fallen from the original traditions of the Clans and that your one time close ally was little more than an opportunistic Falcon in Wolf’s clothing, you saw few options.  Disappointed with the Wolves and seeing little chance for glory and growth outside of the Homeworlds, your Clan agreed to the plan, despite their long enmity with my Star Adders.  You will bear watching, but for now, your conversion seems genuine.

“Khan N’Buta,” began Khan Ariel Suvorov in her light toned voice, “with the others now having spoken; now it is time to reveal our strength.”  N’Buta nodded.  “Clan Goliath Scorpion possesses 2,604 Points in twenty-four Clusters, 1,104 Points or reserve equipment and twenty WarShips.”

So weak, thought Cassius, but you impressed me on Roche.  There is something to the Scorpions the other Clans do not possess.  I came to you unaware of that fact and gave you the stark choice of joining the campaign or facing the wrath of those remaining in the Homeworlds at the end of the fighting.  Unexpectedly, your Clan was more accommodating than I had expected, but you pushed for several more lenient parameters for the planned war.  Your attitude surprised me, but in that attitude, I saw the wisdom behind your words Khan Suvorov.

Cassius gestured to the hologram before the Khans with his left arm, where the strength of each was now in place, as he reached into his fatigues and pulled forth a small controller.  Pressing a button on its op, he made a series of numbers appear next to the Invading Clan’s icons.  “Here you see before you the approximate strengths of the Invading Clans in the Homeworlds.  We have more than sufficient power between us to break these Clans, but only should we work together.  I expect that the bidding soon to take place between our eight Clans will be as fierce and cunning as any seen in Clan history.  As previously agreed, a ranking of each Clan facing exile has been made and bidding on each will proceed in turn, with each invading Clan to be bid on drawn randomly.  Khan Ravenwater, would you do me the honour of drawing the Clans to be bid on?”

The Fire Mandrill Khan looked to Cassius, “I would be honoured Khan N’Buta.”

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on April 18, 2015, 05:10:38 PM

4th of March, 3063
Clan Star Adder Council Chamber
Katyusha, Strana Mechty, Clan Homeworlds

Cassius stood and walked to the Mandrill Khan, reached into another pocket and withdrew eight cards, “Each has the sigil of one of the Clans to be bid on.  Please shuffle them and draw them one at a time for each round of bidding.”

The Mandrill Khan only nodded and Cassius returned to his seat.

Cassius pulled back his shoulders, looked across the assembled Khans and began; ”Each of us gathered here on this profound and critically important occasion in Clan history.  Each of the Homeworld Clans must now bid to determine who will be their target.  However, in order to minimise the losses and ensure that a Clan’s target for expulsion does not escape with valuable industry and resources, I must recommend, but cannot force you, to undertake bidding in a conservative manner.  Though this may be uncomfortable for some Clans, you must see the need to take as much as possible from the invaders, to ensure us all of a strong and stable place in the new order.” 

Somme Khans nodded, other shook their heads and other just watched.  Some of you will refuse to see the lesson I try to impart here and will drive yourselves, or others, into dangerous bids.  Now to begin. 

Before Cassius could begin, Khan McKenna spoke.  “I assume we will bid under the Circe Protocols?”

Dam you McKenna! Thought Cassius.  “They are centuries old and out of date, I do not think they are appropriate”

Khan McKenna’s smug smile was enough to make Cassius want to cross the chamber and slap her.  “The Circe protocols were used during the Annihilation of the Not Named and the Absorption of both the Widowmakers and Mongoose Clans.  They were set up for just such occasions and should be used here.”

This will allow the larger Clans to abuse the bidding process and potentially split targets you stupid fool, in contravention of all we planned for.  The lowest bid after three rounds, or two if other Clans concede, wins the bid, with drawn bids resulting in split targets.  You will undermine our unity from the beginning.

“Very well Khan Snow Raven, but we should vote on such a proposal.”

McKenna shook her head.  “WE need not vote, it is part of the Martial Code.”

Cassius shrugged, “Have it as you will then, Khan McKenna.”  You will pay for this. 

Cassius looked to the Fire Mandrill Khan, “Khan Ravenwater, please draw the first Clan.”

The dignified Khan of the Mandrills first shuffled the cards, then he lifted the first from the top of the deck.  He flipped the card and it showed the red arrows, shark and diamond insignia of Clan Diamond Shark, much too several Clan’s dismay.  The Diamond Sharks were the strongest militarily in the Homeworlds of those to be ejected and the third most valuable in terms of resources and industry.  No Clan but the Star Adders could match the Diamond Sharks on the field of battle and make any profit from it.  Cassius knew that the opportunity to lead by example was upon him and he planned accordingly. 

He pressed a second button on his control and next to the Diamond Shark icon the figures 5148/2748 – 19/4 appeared.  “Clan Diamond Shark controls thirty oversized Clusters and approximately twenty WarShips.  Based on the Circe protocols, any Clan can declare a special right to face an opponent, and if not opposed by the other bidding Clans, gain the right to face the target Clan.  In order to not have a smaller Clan tasked with such an undertaking, Clan Star Adder will forego the right to bid on better targets and claim the right under the Circe Protocols to face Clan Diamond Shark.”  That should take the edge of some of your idiocy Khan McKenna.

“A noble choice Khan N’Butu, but the Protocols also require a bid, a bid no more than 20% greater than the target in order to claim the right.”  McKenna’s response was hard.

“I bid 6,050 Points to the defending 5,148, forty-five Adder Clusters against thirty large Shark Clusters, 17.5% over the cutdown.  Do any challenge this?”  Cassius’s voice was hard and he stared at the Raven Khan, daring her to speak.  None responded.

“Very well, Clan Star Adder will face Clan Diamond Shark.”  Cassius’s voice rang out and the graphic in front of the Khans updated to show the forces bid by the Adders and placed them opposite the Diamond Sharks.

“Khan N’Buta, your actions set a noble example for us all to follow.”  This from the Cloud Cobra Khan.

“Thank you, Khan Steiner, we must think of the unity here today and not our own needs.  Khan Ravenwater, if you would draw again.”

Khan Ravenwater lifted the second card and it showed the pale crest of Clan Ice Hellion, poor in resources, but with a strong military, by Homeworlds standards, to deal with. “My fellow Khans, I now open the floor to bids, and according to the Protocols, this will be by Clan Blood Spirit first and in alphabetical order from then on, unless any call for special rights against the Ice Hellions?” 

When no one spoke, Cassius continued, “Clan Blood Spirit, your bid please.”

Karianna Schmitt grinned, glad to be starting the process of the bid, “Clan Blood Spirit bids 2,880 Points.”

Slightly less than two-thirds of your Touman and more than thirty percent more than the cutdown, a good opening bid.  Thought Cassius before continuing, “Clan Burrock?”

Khan Holiday flicked her head as she bid, “Clan Burrock bids 2,640 Points.”

Interesting, though Cassius, you drive down to 20% over cutdown with two thirds of your Touman. “Clan Cloud Cobra?”

“We bid 3,840 Points, Khan N’Buta.” 

Ah, you don’t wish to face the Ice Hellions it would seem, or you leave yourself a strong second bid.  I would assume the former based on your bid though.  “Clan Coyote?”

Khan Kufal answered for the Coyotes, “4,800.” Succinct as always and even higher than the Cobras.  Better prizes await your strength it would seem.

“Clan Fire Mandrill?”

“We bid 3,720 Khan Star Adder.”  Intoned Khan Ravenwater. 

You might yet make a play for the Hellions.  Was Cassius’s thought.  “Clan Goliath Scorpion?”

The slight Khan Suvovrov’s voice was loud as she answered, “Our Clan bids with 2,604 Points.”

Your total strength.  Your second bid will need to be carefully managed, but you hold the advantage under the Protocols.  “Clan Snow Raven?”

Khan McKenna answered without expression, “4,128 Points.”

You wish no part in fighting the Hellions it would seem.

Cassius stood once he had the final bid and opened his arms, “My Khans, under the Circe Protocols, the Clan with the highest bid must bid first in each of the following two rounds or declare its withdrawal.  Therefore, Clan Coyote, your second bid please.”

Khan Kufal answered curtly again, “4,200 Points.”

You insult us, thought Cassius, you should have withdrawn.  “Clan Snow Raven?”

“3,600 Points of our Clan’s Touman.”  Bryn Cooper answered this time.
 
Somewhat more respectable.  “Clan Cloud Cobra?”

“Khan N’Buta,” answered Khan Steiner, “We bid 3,600 Points.”

“Clan Fire Mandrill?”  Asked Cassius.

“Clan Fire Mandrill bids 3,000 Points.”

Ah, a real bid at last, you look to compete.  “Clan Blood Spirit?”

“The Blood Spirits bid 2,400 Points.”  Khan Schmitt smiled as she halved the distance to the cutdown.

Now we get to interesting territory, Cassius thought as murmurs followed the Spirit bid.  “Clan Burrock?”

Khan Holliday answered, “We too bid 2,400 Points.”

Nicely done.  “Clan Goliath Scorpion?”

“2,400 as well.” Answered Khan Suvorov.

Cassius, now that all bids of the second round were in and no remaining Clan had withdrawn, began the cycle again.  “This is now the final round of bidding.  Should any Clans have matched bids at the conclusion of this round, the target will be divided amongst them.  Clan Coyote?”

The Coyote Khan, Sullivan Koga, gestured to Cassius, “We withdraw.”

You really could have done that sooner, thought Cassius.

“Clan Cloud Cobra?”

“Withdraw.”

“Clan Snow Raven?”

“We withdraw from the bidding.”

“Clan Fire Mandrill?”

“We regretfully withdraw Khan N’Buta.”

None of you intended to play for keeps here, you were all just testing the water.  “Clan Blood Spirit.”

“We maintain our bid at 2,400.”  This from Khan Schmitt.

You don’t want this target but you don’t want to appear weak either.  “Clan Burrock.”

Khan Holliday smiled, “Why, 2,400 Points of troops of course.”

Scowls from the Blood Spirits met Holliday’s response, You just can’t help yourself where the Spirits are concerned.  Cassius looked to the Scorpion, Please see reason here, as you saw it before.  “Clan Goliath Scorpion, how do you bid.”

Ariel Suvorov smiled at Cassius, “Clan Goliath Scorpion bids 2,106 points, in effect twenty of our clusters to face the Ice Hellions seventeen.  We see where some of our fellow Khan intend to push bidding in future rounds and the Goliath Scorpions lack the numbers to engage in lop sided bidding wars.”

“Bargained well and done.”  Said Cassius.  Your insight gives you strength and perception beyond that of most of your fellows.  Other Khans appears either smug, relieved or slightly dismayed, depending on their positions within the order of power as the import of the Scorpion’s words hit home.

“My Khans,” continued Cassius, “we now need to bid for the third Clan.  Khan Ravenwater, if you would be so kind.”

“Of course.” Answered the Mandrill Khan as he flipped up the next card.  The sigil of Clan Ghost Bear was shown to the Khans.

Two Clusters defending two worlds bereft of industry or real value.  Thought Cassius.  No one will want this target, which means by default it will go to the Fire Mandrills.  Dam you McKenna, but there is a way out of this, though it force me to weaken my own Clan.

The bidding proceeded as Cassius expected it would, with most Clans bidding high, leaving the Fire Mandrills bid of their own entire Touman, 3,720 Points worth, well below even the nearest bid.  Every other Clan withdrew in the second round, leaving the Fire Mandrills the Ghost Bears by default.

Khan Ravenwater looked livid by the end of the bidding, “You test our loyalty with such insults!”  He roared at the other Khans.

“Your insult will be healed Khan Ravenwater.”  Said Cassius.

“How!”  The Mandrill barked back.

Cassius smiled, “I have bidded forty-five Clusters, I am sure I can find room for twenty of your own small Clusters in my overall force strength.  You gain honour, do not break your bid and assist in the most difficult campaign of all.  I would thank my fellow Khans if I were you, should my offer be satisfactory.”

Ravenwater looked hard at N’Buta, “We would keep what we take?”

“Yes,” answered Cassius, “a fair share of targets will be yours.”

Ravenwater stood and walked across to Cassius, grasping his arm, “You show us much honour today, in addition to your wisdom and leadership.  Bargained well and done and may your example guide our fellow Khans.  My Mandrills will fight close beside you.”

Not if I bloody well have anything to do with it, though Cassius, those quarrelling idiots you unified can’t even fight together properly, let alone next to another Clan.  You will have your own worlds to assault.  “The honour is mine Khan Ravenwater.”  Said Cassius, hiding his real thoughts.

Cassius then cast a gaze across the assembled Khans where some, like the Cloud Cobras, seemed pleased with his actions, whilst others, notably the Ravens and Coyotes, seemed less than enthused with his generous gesture to the Fire Mandrills.  He could not be sure if their lack of joy stemmed from his ability to again show his leadership credentials, or that they realised his Clan would still profit, yet suffer less for its work due to Mandrill assistance.

Once the muttering quietened and the Mandrill Khan had returned to his seat, Cassius nodded to him and he withdrew the next card.  Holding it up revealed the Clan to be bid on was to be the Nova Cats.  This will be interesting he thought, moderately placed both industrially and militarily within the Homeworlds as they are. A good target with good opportunities for glory and gain.

In the bidding for the right to face the Nova Cats, Clan Blood Spirit set the early mark, bidding 3,120 Points, with other bids closer to 3,600, which gave room to bid down, as the Cats possessed a little less than 1,600 Points of troops in the Homeworlds.  However, through canny bidding and eventually reducing their bid to twenty-four Clusters, with 2,400 points, the Blood Spirits gained the honour of facing the Nova Cats.  Most bids stayed high due to the need to retain forces to fight through the Cats heavy WarShip presence, however the Blood Spirits Aerospace Clusters would give them a strong edge there and they bid accordingly.  The Burrocks, Cobras and Coyotes pushed you hard Khan Schmitt, but you showed that for all your bluster, you are not fools.  Yours will be an interesting campaign.

Clan Steel Viper was drawn fifth and with a relatively poor industrial base compared to the Wolves and Jaguars to come, none of the remaining Clans wished to fight the Vipers if they could.  Bidding was agonizingly slow, as each Clan considered its position very carefully and cut small pieces from their Touman, however, it was a simple error on the part of the Snow Ravens that saw them earn the dubious honour of facing their old foe.
Following the Coyote bid of 3,942 Points, Khan McKenna was about to bid when a snide remark was made by the Burrock saKhan, not his first during the tense session either,  set her off.“Watch the cowards cut a Point from their bid…”

“I BID 3,312!”  She yelled at the Burrock.

Everyone stopped, as her bid dropped her well below the other Clans.  The bid was entered before she realised her mistake.  Then she erupted.

“I recall my bid, it should stand at 3,412!  Khan Star Adder correct it.”

Cassius smiled the devil’s smile at Khan McKenna before answering in a cold voice, “Khan McKenna, the Circe Protocols do not allow for a withdrawal of bid.  You know this as well as I.  Your Snow Ravens will face the six Steel Viper Clusters remaining in the Homeworlds and find there what honour you can.”

McKenna was out of her seat in a flash a pointed at N’Buta, “You cannot do this.  Withdraw the bid!”

“SIT DOWN!”  The roar from the Snow Raven saKhan stopped everyone in the room cold.  “You will sit and be silent and once this Council is finished you will die in a circle of equals for the Grievance you have caused to our whole Clan.  I will see your Bloodright Reaved you short sighted fool.”

Silence descended as the import of the saKhan’s words seeped into McKenna’s mind.  Suddenly she looked small and weak, almost withering before the assembled Khans, before returning to her seat, a look of dawning horror spreading across her face.

“If we could continue, with your assent of course saKhan Cooper?”  Cassius asked.

The furious Raven saKhan merely nodded, whilst staring at his soon to be dead Khan.  “Very well then.  Khan Ravenwater, if you would be so kind to draw the next Clan.”

The prize of Clan Wolf was drawn and all eyes focused on the three Clans remaining: Clans Burrock; Coyote; and Cloud Cobra.

All three remaining three Clans will bid hard for this honour, thought Cassius.

“Khan Cloud Cobra, your first bid.” he asked.

“Clan Cloud Cobra bids 3,408, against the Wolf defence of 1,848.”  Said Khan Steiner

All fear the Wolf and will bid conservatively.  “Khan Coyote?”

“5,040.” Said the laconic Coyote saKhan, again bidding on his Khan’s behalf.

“Clan Burrock?”

Holliday stroked her chin before answering, “We bid 3,960.”

Cassius looked back the Coyote Khans, “Your bid was highest and most conservative, and therefore, the Coyotes must withdraw or bid again.”

The Coyote Khan lent over and whispered to his saKhan, before saKhan Kufal answered, ”Our bid is not conservative when one understands the Wolf as well as we do.  We bid 4,800 Points.”

You want the Jaguars is more the point, thought Cassius.  He looked to the Burrocks, “Khan Holliday?”

She grinned as she answered, “2,400, Khan N’Buta.”

Thirty percent over cutdown, now things get interesting.  “Khan Steiner, your Cobras?”  Asked Cassius.

“We bid 2,640.”

Cassius turned to the Coyotes again, “Your final bid?”

The two Coyote Khans looked at each other before Khan Koga answered, “We withdraw.”

“Very well,” Cassius nodded and folded his arms, “Khan Cloud Cobra, your final bid please.”

Khan Steiner paused, took a breath and then said, “2,280 Points we bid.”

Before Cassius could say anything, the Burrock Khan stood, “And we bid 2,160!  Sixteen of our Clusters will drive off the fifteen Wolf Clusters.  Bargained well and done!”

Cassius smiled inwardly at the drive of the new Burrock Clan, “Well bidded Khan Holliday, beware though of the Wolf, its fifteen may well appear as thirty.”

Holliday lifted her head triumphantly, “We have fought the Wolf before and know his ways.  After our recent troubles, it will be refreshing to face a true foe.”

Cassius cocked and eyebrow and shrugged, “We will see.”  He looked to the Mandrill Khan again, “The last two Clans, if you would.”

Khan Ravenwater raised the card of the Hell’s Horses first, followed by the Smoke Jaguars second.  The Jaguars being the real prize of the two, with nearly their entire industrial base in the Homeworlds and most of their Touman in the Inner Sphere.  The Cobras have no chance here, thought Cassius glumly, and there is nothing I can do.

Clan Coyote was able to keep it bids above those of the Cloud Cobras, forcing the Aerospace minded Clan into the campaign against the conventionally minded Horses.  Your bidding practices Khan Koga, which were similar to those of the Ravens, will do little to endear you to many of the other Clans.  More so, the Cloud Cobras will go in facing numerical inferiority, though their strong fleet should be of great assistance.  Nevertheless, the unity I sought has been sorely tested by the bitter feud between you and the Cloud Cobras, the Spirits and Burrocks and those infernal Ravens.

Finally, with an exceptionally conservative bid of seventeen Clusters, the Coyotes would face the eight defending Smoke Jaguar Clusters, which protected the strong holdings of that Clan and the prize of the highly industrialised world of Huntress.  Once the bidding was finished, Cassius raised both arms, palms out and addressed all of the Khans present.

“So be the will of the eight true Clans of Kerensky, from here on in called the Core Clans, for we form the core of all that is good and true of the original intent of ilKhan Nicholas Kerensky, the great founder of our peoples and our guiding light.  May our decisions and the bidding conducted here allow us to usher in a new era for the Clans of Kerensky, return us all to the honour road, and eject those fallen Clans not worthy of their place amongst us.”

Fifteen voices answered Cassius as one “SEYLA.”

He looked sharply around the semi-circle, “Go now Trothkin, send your first orders, for every hour will count when we declare our truth to the other clans.  We have but twenty-eight days by Clan law to prepare our campaign from tomorrow, every moment will count.”

With that, all stood and began to make their way from the hall to issue the orders that would bring war to the clan Homeworlds of a scale never before seen.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on April 18, 2015, 05:18:52 PM

Oh, and here are the maps showing the Federated Commonwealth's response to the multiple invasions...

https://www.mediafire.com/folder/ij747h7tnp2g3/Of_Flacons_and_Wolves (https://www.mediafire.com/folder/ij747h7tnp2g3/Of_Flacons_and_Wolves)

Chapters on these events will follow.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Shadow_Wraith on April 18, 2015, 07:32:13 PM

wow!  very nice update! 

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on April 18, 2015, 08:57:49 PM

Thanks, it took a while to get it assembled and make sense.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Beast on April 20, 2015, 07:00:43 AM

That was a nice thrill to see the bidding process! Well done, Blacknova. I will watch these proceedings with more interest than I thought I would be able to.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on April 20, 2015, 03:10:58 PM

Thanks, just writing the follow up chapter at the moment.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on April 21, 2015, 04:50:39 AM

-11-
5th of March, 3063
Wolf Clan Command Post,
Tamar, Clan Wolf Occupation Zone

Khan Phelan Kell of Clan Wolf looked slightly down, below the section of the screen that flashed a “Waiting” signal, as the various assembled Khans of the Invading Clans awaited the connection to the Homeworlds to be established along the various HPG way stations of the Exodus Road.  Visible in their own sections of the screen for this virtual Kurultai were the Khans of seven of the eight Clans that possessed holdings within the Inner Sphere.  Only the Diamond Shark Khans were present in the Homeworlds.  Below the flashing waiting signal was the space where he and his saKhan, Marthe Pryde, could type messages to each other without allowing the other Khans to see what they were doing, as only their heads would be visible, just like the Khans of the other Invading Clans.  It was something Phelan had the Wolf Clan technicians install, as he valued the ability to communicate with his saKhan in such situations.

//THEY ARE TAKING THEIR TIME TODAY// Typed Marthe.

//YES.  THE HELLION KHAN LOOKS READY TO RUN THE EXODUS ROAD TO TELL THEM TO GET MOVING//

Was Phelan’s reply.  Khan Rianna Montrose could not sit still it appeared and her head kept bobbing up, down and around.  The other Khans all seemed to be able to maintain their composure, though discerning their expressions was impossible, due to the ceremonial masks they all wore.

//SHE IS MORE SEDATE THAN THAT IDIOT TANEY, BUT...//

Marthe stopped typing as the central screen flickered and then settled on an image of the Grand Council chamber of the Clans on Strana Mechty.  The chamber was largely empty, with only eighteen Khans present and the Loremaster sitting before them, but the chamber seemed different somehow.

//THEY HAVE CHANGED THE SEATING ARRANGEMENTS!// 

Marthe’s quick typing brought the change into focus for Phelan.  The eight Clans with no possessions in the Homeworlds occupied the benches on one side of the chamber, the other side being empty, with the flags of the fallen and Invading Clans, bar that of the Not Named, on the other.  Before Phelan could say anything, Khan Brandon Howell of the Smoke Jaguars spoke.

“What is the meaning of the reorganisation of the chamber?  Who authorised the repositioning of the order imposed by our Founder?”  Murmurs and comments from many of the invaders accompanied the questions.

Khan Ian Hawker, Khan of Clan Diamond Shark, and one of only two Khans to sit on the near empty side of the chamber, the other being his saKhan, answered first.
“I am told it is a purely cosmetic measure to underscore an issue the Clans of the Homeworlds wish to bring to our combined attention.  They have assured me the hall will be returned to its former state after this Council.”

//SOMEONE IS PLAYING FOR HIGH STAKES TODAY// Phelan typed as Hawker spoke.

//SOMEONE WANTS TO BE ILKHAN…N’BUTA?...KOGA?// Marthe typed and deleted and misspelt words as she rapidly tapped out her thoughts.

//N’BUTA// Was all Phelan typed back.

“That may all be well and good Khan Hawker, but such actions have never been taken and cannot be taken without Council consent.”  Howells voice was rising in volume, but before he could continue, Khan Cassius N’Buta stood to address the Smoke Jaguar.

“Khan Howell, I apologise if the gesture has caused offense, but it has gained your attention.  Once we have completed the election of a new ilKhan, I will explain the reasoning behind what we have done.  You may not accept the reasoning, but at least you will understand it.”

The Jaguar Khan grunted his acknowledgement and waved a hand, “Your explanation had best be exemplary Khan N’Buta.”

“I assure you Khan Howell…that it will be.”  Cassius bowed his head slightly and sat.

//THE STAR ADDER SEEMS FULLER OF HIMSELF THAN USUAL// Phelan typed.

//YES// was all the response he got. 

Marthe must be as upset as Howell.  I don’t have the same attachment to the chamber as these Khans do.  Phelan thought, his own upbringing in the Inner Sphere had not conditioned him to react the same way as the other Khans.

Loremaster Clarissa Jerricho, in an effort to stem further discussion before the Council, banged her gavel once and addressed the Khans of the Clans.  “I am Clarissa Jerricho and have been chosen as Loremaster for this gathering of the Grand Council.  I hereby convene this conclave under the provisions of the Martial Code as laid down by Nicholas Kerensky.  Because we exist in a state of war, all matters shall be conducted according to its provisions."

"Seyla," responded all of the Khans, both present physically and via virtual link.

The Loremaster continued.  “A Clan Council has been called to elect an ilKhan to oversee the remaining five years of the Truce and prepare the Clans for renewed war.  All Khans present are fit to vote and I will now accept nominations from the floor.”

Khan Montrose of Clan Ice Hellion spoke almost on top of the last words of the Loremaster.  “I nominate Khan Howell of Clan Smoke Jaguar.  He has been victorious in his recent battles with two Clans and now stands closer to sacred Terra than any other Khan.  No other can claim such recent glory.”

//THE LITTLE KISS ARSE WANTS TO MAKE PRETTY WITH THE LEADING CRUSADERS IN THE SPHERE// Typed Phelan.

//WE SHOULD INVADE CHAINLAINE TO SHUT THE SURAT UP// Marthe responded, making Phelan smile behind his mask. Tempting thought.

“I second the nomination.”  This from Khan Zalman of the Steel Vipers, “The Jaguar has proven himself a most resourceful warrior.”

The Jaguar Khan bowed his head slightly, “I accept this nomination and will bring glory to the Clans when elected.”

//I WONDER WHO ELSE WILL GET A NOD?//  Typed Phelan.

“I nominate Khan Phelan Kell of Clan Wolf.”  Said Marthe

//YOU WHAT!!!//

“Khan Kell has not only risen from nothing to Khan, he has won the greatest war ever fought between two Clans, defeated the Bears and leads the largest and strongest Clan to ever exist.  No other Khan can command anything approaching the glory of Clan Wolf and no finer Warrior exists among us.”

//I AM HONOURED YOU THINK SO MARTHE//

//THINKING HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH IT.  FACT IS FACT.//

As they typed, Khan Malavai Fletcher raised his hand, “The Hell’s Horses support such a nomination.  Though we stand opposed philosophically, the power and vigour of the Wolf Clan cannot be ignored.”

Phelan paused, I don’t need this, but Marthe and Katya can lead the Wolves, and I might be able to accomplish what Ulric could not.  He paused before responding, “I humbly accept the praise of my peers and accept the nomination.  I will serve the Clans as I have served Clan Wolf if elected ilKhan, with honour and integrity.”

None spoke for a full twenty seconds and the Loremaster looked ready to speak when Khan Ian Hawker of Clan Diamond Shark stood.  “I place the name of Khan Cassius N’Buta into the ballot.  Khan N’Buta leads the strongest Clan within our Homeworlds and he has, at all times, held a vision for all the Clans glory and growth.  I feel none other would be appropriate in bringing all true Clansmen together in unity for a better future.”

“I second the nomination.”  Called out Khan Nathan Ravenwater, Khan of the Fire Mandrills.  “The Adder has great honour and foresight.  Our future rests on no better shoulders then his.  To vote for any other is to forget the future we all must hold true.”
Murmurs, nods and comments from the Homeworlds Clans met Ravenwater’s words.

//THEY ARE PLANNING TO VOTE AS A BLOCK.  N’BUTA HAS STITCHED THEM UP SOMEHOW// Phelan typed quickly.

//PERHAPS, BUT WE STILL HAVE FRIENDS THERE.  THE COYOTES, COBRAS AND SCORPIONS ARE OURS, AS ARE THE WOLF, HORSE AND PERHAPS EVEN BEAR AND CAT VOTES.  THAT IS 14 OF 32.  THIS IS NOT BEYOND THE REALM OF POSSIBILITY//  Marthe’s hands were flying across the keyboard.

//DON’T COUNT YOUR KAHNS BEFORE THEY HAVE VOTED// Was all Phelan typed.

N’Buta stood, “I accept your nomination,” he bowed to the Shark Khan and again to the Mandrill Khan, “I will serve this Council to the utmost of my abilities.”  He sat and folded his arms and silence descended across the chamber.

Moments passed slowly until the Coyote Loremaster spoke again.  “If there are no more nominations,” she paused, none answered, “we will begin the voting for the position of ilKhan.  Clan Blood Spirit?”

“Clan Blood Spirit abstains.”

There was much shifting in seats from some Homeworlds Clans and muttering.

//I DO BELIEVE THE SPIRITS HAVE CASUED N’BUTA ISSUES ALREADY// Marthe typed.

//PERHAPS//

“Clan Burrock.”  Continued the Loremaster

“Two votes for Khan N’Buta.”

“Clan Cloud Cobra.”

“We both vote for Khan N’Buta.”

//DAM THEM// Typed Marthe.

//THEY HAVE LONG RESPECTED THE ADDERS MARTHE, THAT WAS NOT UNEXPECTD//

“Clan Coyote.”

“Both votes for Khan N’Buta.”

//WHAT ARE THEY THINKING?// Marthe moved slightly beside him.

//TOO MANY FALCONS PERHAPS?// You really want to see me as ilKhan.  I am quite flattered by your respect Marthe.

“Clan Diamond Shark.”

“Clan Diamond Shark votes for Khan N’Buta.”

“Clan Fire Mandrill.”

“Two more votes for Khan N’Buta.”

“Clan Ghost Bear.”

“We cast two votes for Khan Kell.”

//THERE’S ONE FOR THE BOOKS AFTER OUR RECENT SPAT// Type Phelan wryly.

“Clan Goliath Scorpion.”

 â€œOur votes are for Khan N’Buta.”

//INGRATES// This from Marthe.

 â€œClan Hell’s Horses.”

“We cast our votes for Khan Kell.”

“Clan Ice Hellion.”

“Our votes for Khan Howell.”

“Clan Nova Cat.”

“Clan Nova Cate votes for Khan Kell.”

“Clan Smoke Jaguar.”

“Two for our Khan.”  Said the Jaguar saKhan.

“Clan Snow Raven.”

“We votes for Khan N’Buta.”

“Clan Star Adder.”

“For Khan N’Buta.”  Said saKhan Paik.

“Clan Steel Viper.”

“Two Votes for Khan Howell.”

“Clan Wolf.”

“Our Votes for Khan Kell.”  Said Marthe in a strong voice.

The Loremaster looked down to check the tally.  “I have sixteen votes for Khan Cassius N’Buta, eight for Khan Phelan Kell, six for Khan Brandon Howell and two abstaining.  No Khan has a majority.  Are there any who would withdraw to allow Khans to vote for another?”

There are no real options here and Cassius is no madman.  There will be tension and fighting, but the Adders are a Clan that can lead.  //I THANK YOU FOR THE HONOUR YOU HAVE SHOWN ME MARTHE.  I WILL NEVER FORGET IT, BUT WE MUST THINK OF ALL THE CLANS AND NOT ONLY THE WOLVES//.  “Loremaster, I withdraw my acceptance of my nomination and ask all those who voted for me to vote for Khan N’Buta, he is a man of vision who can bring a new era for us all.”

//YOUR WILL BE DONE MY KHAN, THOUGH I WISH IT OTHERWISE// Typed Marthe.

Loremaster Jerricho addressed the Khans, “Are there any Khans who voted for Khan Kell who would not otherwise vote for Khan N’Buta now Khan Kell has withdrawn?”

There was no response and the Loremaster continued, “Therefore Khan N’Buta is elected ilKhan with twenty-four votes.” 

Applause for the new ilKhan came from both ends of the Exodus Road, however, the Clans of the Homeworlds were obviously more than pleased with N’Buta’s election, as their ovation was loud and prolonged.  Once the applause died down, Cassius N’Buta stood and walked to the centre of the room, where he shook the proffered hand of the Loremaster.  The Loremaster then squared his shoulders and addressed Cassius.
“Khan N’Buta, Do you swear upon the words of the Great Kerensky that you will follow the ordained trail through the black firmament of space, the trail that will ultimately lead us back to Terra to restore all that was good and pure in the Star League?”

Cassius removed his ceremonial adder mask before answering, “I do Loremaster.”

Jerricho motioned with his right arm to the ilKhan’s place, “Then take your place at our head and lead the Clans, always guided by the ideals of our founders.”

ilKhan Cassius N’Buta slowly walked to the ilKhan’s dais and ascended step by step, placing a hand upon the bench and bowing his head slightly, before suddenly turning and seating himself.  He raised his head, placed his ceremonial helm to one side, and looked directly to the camera that would carry his words to the Inner Sphere.

“Khan’s of the Clans of the Inner Sphere, those who call us brothers, but treat us like unwanted guests, hear my words, for they will echo in time and Rememberances.”

Phelan felt a chill run up his spine.  This feels wrong, the Home Khans are all leaning forward, whispering.  What have they planned?

“When you made your decisions in that fateful meeting to determine who would invade the Inner Sphere, when you heeded not my counsel and when you rejected reason for gain, at the expense of your fellows, you started us all on a path to ruin.”

//WHY DOES EVERY NEW ILKHAN FEEL HE HAS THE RIGHT TO LECTURE EVERY CLAN IN EXISTENCE ON ITS PERCIEVED MISTAKES THE MOMENT THEY ASCEND TO THE POSITION.  I HONESTLY HOPED CASSIUS WAS BETTER THAN THIS// Marthe typed.

//THERE IS MORE TO THIS.  I THINK HE MEANS TO ACTIVATE THE HOMEWORLDS CLANS AND HE HAS THE NUMBERS TO DO IT//

N’Buta continued speaking.  “Had you listened to wiser councils then, had we all cooperated as we had under Nicholas Kerensky in the Pentagon campaign, our unity, the unity that has bound us for so long would not have been severed.  That, most unfortunately, was only the beginning of your drift from honour and faithfulness.  You were consumed by the your own arrogance and hubris and it’s physical expression on the bloody fields of Tukayyid and the resulting Truce, one that even then you did not stop to properly consider.  You used the Truce to tear at each other for nearly a decade, forgetting the mission you were appointed to accomplish.  Hundreds of systems remained unconquered and that was the time to call us, to recognise your folly and call us forward to take the remaining systems in league with you.  This was not to be, as instead you fought amongst yourselves, working together only to keep us out, unless we were lap dogs like the Sharks and Horses, or independent hotheads like the Hellions.  Your arrogance and lack of vision has cost the Clans three wasted generations and yet still you bicker like petulant and greedy children on Terra’s very doorstep.”

Cassius stood and gestured to the Khans clustered on the right of the chamber, “These Khans here, these Khans who represent those you ignored, sidelined, ridiculed and abandoned have met and we have spoken.  Our councils have led us to but one conclusion.  That conclusion is that you are no longer worthy of the positions you hold or the council we give you.”

Khan Perigard Zalman started clapping sardonically, slapping his hands slowly and he laughed, “ilKhan N’Buta,” he began, “You can decry us all you like, but you speak from a place of weakness, as do all those in the Homeworlds.  If your Clans were worthy of the place you say they are, they would have risen up and taken it as their right.”

Cassius smiled, “You are right Khan Zalman and we will.”  Cassius paused.
 
//HERE IT COMES…GET READY TO START SHARING CLUTTERED CORRIDORS// Typed Phelan

//OVER MY STEAMING CORPSE// Was Marthe’s reply.

Cassius sat again, and rested his arms upon the chair of the ilKhan, “Khan Zalman, your point is well founded and you will be glad to know we have acted, as you claim we should.  We have all acted, as one, we Clans of the Homeworlds, we Core Clans, the beating heart of the Way of the Clans.  We have acted for months and acted last night and will again twenty-eight days from now.  We the Core Clans of Kerensky have met and declared those clans in the Inner Sphere to be no longer Clan, to be DEZGRA!"  Cassius shouted the last word and the Khans of the Core Clans lept to their feet clapping and cheering.

Phelan turned to Marthe and removed his mask, as every other Khan in the Inner Sphere started howling at N’Buta.  “What the hell just happened?”

Marthe removed her own mask and a predatory look came into her eyes as she sized the ilKhan up, seeing him as he truly was for the first time, “War my Khan, war the likes of which we have not seen in our history.”

Before Phelan could speak again, the voice of Bjorn Jorgensson, Khan of Clan Ghost Bear cut across the din.  “WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THIS N’BUTA!  YOU CAN CALL NO CLAN DEZGRA, LET ALONE EIGHT CLANS, WITHOUT THE VOTE OF THE ENTIRE COUNCIL!”

The shouting and noise from Khans on both ends of the Exodus Road settled as the ilKhan looked to the camera again.

“Ah but we can my dear Ghost Bear,” he held up a hand forestalling more shouts from infuriated Khans, “We can because we are all that remains of the true spirit of our Founders.  You call yourself Clan but you are no longer.  You either debase yourself through unfettered intermingling or crush those underfoot that you should be shepherding.  We are CLAN and you have forgotten that.  We are one and we should always be one in such endeavours, ruling with strength and taking in those who prove themselves, never exploiting or crushing those we seek to improve, never debasing ourselves by reducing ourselves to their level.  We are Clan and you have forgotten that as you fight for petty gain in the greatest endeavour we have ever undertaken, casting honour aside to carve notches in your grips.  We are Clan as you have not been in years and as such, we need no right given by those who chose to cast their brothers aside.  You have left, you have left the Homeworlds, you have left your trothkin, you have left your honour and you have left the Clans.” 

Cassius’s voice continued to rise.  “We have voted to cast you out of the Unity and bring about a new era of the Clans.  We have taken your vote for my position as your ascent in our decision and we will clean your stain from the worlds of our forefathers.  You are hear by cast out into the darkness to find what path you may and in time, when our plans are laid and our arms ready, we will bring RECKONIGN TO YOU AND THE INNER SPHERE AS WE DO NOW HERE IN THE HOMEWORLDS."

Pandemonium broke out again, as Khans yelled and screamed, or cheered and praised, depending on what side of the divide they were on.  Cassius smiled and held his arms out, palms up and smiled upon those who supported him.  For five minutes, the cacophony continued until he waved the Core Clans into silence.  Another two minutes passed until the Invaders quietened, and the entire time Phelan just watched.  Well played Cassius, you have played for stakes, higher than I could ever have imagined a Star Adder playing for and you seem to have succeeded.  Not only that, you have inspired and that makes you a more deadly foe by an order of magnitude.  Phelan looked directly at the ilKhan and nodded his salute, a nod that, surprisingly, was returned.  We, or our successors will face each other and in that battle will the final fate of the Clans be written.

Once a semblance of quiet had returned, after the Invaders had shouted themselves hoarse, little good that it did them so far from the Homeworlds as they were, Cassius spoke once more.  “Lest you think us callous or less then what we profess to be, we offer you four weeks, twenty-eight days, to remove yourself from the Homeworlds.  After that date, the 2nd of April, all materials, holdings and lower castes still remaining in the Homeworlds will be forfeit and will be taken by force, your troops destroyed or driven off and your marks erased from these hallowed places for all time.”

With his last words, ilKhan Cassius N’Buta gestured to the Loremaster and the transmission was cut off, also killing the feed from the Khans of the other Invading Clans.

Phelan looked to Marthe, “Get in contact with Katya now.  Tell her to move and move quickly, get everything she can, assemble the home fleet and leave.”

“We cannot abandon the Homeworlds without a fight.”  Growled Marthe.

“Oh there will be fighting, but we can’t win, not against eight Clans working in unison.  Katya needs to salvage what she can and hold for as long as possible, so that as many as possible can join us here.  We need everything we can get our hands on, as our mad ilKhan will be coming here one day, and we will need every Warrior and Mech we can produce in order to throw him back into the void.”

Marthe’s shoulders slumped, “We will lose much.”

“Not as much as others and we have moved much already.  Now go, contact Katya and get her moving.  I need to contact the other Khans here in the Inner Sphere and see what can be done.”

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Shadow_Wraith on April 21, 2015, 11:51:35 AM

Wow!   ;D  Very nice update!

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Hessian on April 21, 2015, 12:49:34 PM

This gets better with every post of yours Blacknova!
I look forward to see how this develops further.

Ciao
Hessian

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on April 21, 2015, 03:14:09 PM

Guns, lots of guns.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Ice Hellion on April 22, 2015, 02:51:52 PM

Quote from: Blacknova on April 21, 2015, 03:14:09 PM

Guns, lots of guns.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y70vcs3oV14

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Red Pins on April 23, 2015, 01:48:29 PM

Tagged.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on November 05, 2015, 03:30:02 AM

We are back.  This has taken a long time to get back on track, but here we go.  The next chapter was written by Trajan Helmar, who is fleshing out the Smoke Jaguar side of things.  This is his first chapter, then one of mine back in the Inner Sphere will follow.

-12-
5th of March 3063
Clan Smoke Jaguar Command Center,
Huntress, Clan Homeworlds

Galaxy Commander Russou Howell surveyed the faces of the staff of Huntress’s defending Clusters and the holovid projections of the other Jaguar commanders in Clan Homeworld space.  The distasteful news he had just delivered, was still registering in their bodies, now taut with angry tension. 

“The orders are clear from Khan Howell and we are on our own.” He said.  “What we do here on Huntress in the next four weeks will determine whether our Clan will survive or fall,“ he paused before continuing, “We will not fail, lest shame com upon our great and glorious Clan. ”

Howell watched as the faces of his subordinates fixed him with angry stares.  Good. The possibility of shame through failure will motivate them to do all we must to protect the heart of the Jaguar as it is transplanted to its new home.  “Our next step is to organize and prepare for the wholesale evacuation of what the Jaguar needs to survive in the Inner Sphere.  This is why I have commanded Merchant, Laborer, Technician, and Scientist Factors to be present at this briefing. “

Star Colonel Abel Nevversan of the 12th Solahma Cluster spoke, “Galaxy Commander, who will be facing our warrior’s teeth?”

Russou waved Nevversan away, instead addressing the Factors.  “What I require from you are lists.”

“Lists?  Ovkhan, I do not understand,” said Merchant Factor Niccolo.

“What he wants, “Technician Factor Roger spoke before Howell could himself, “is lists of materials, caste members, and whatever else is necessary for the Clan to make the journey to and thrive in the Inner Sphere.”  Roger found Russou’s expression hateful as he looked back to the warrior. 

Blanching from fear, he bowed his head, “Apologies, Galaxy Commander, Instead of forcing you to waste your breath on Niccolo’s ignorance, I thought to stay any more foolishness from him.”  Howell’s anger abated somewhat with the appology, but Roger trembled until the man’s terrible gaze left him. This commander has already killed two other Factors in the last year, I have no intention of being the next.

Russou continued, “Aff, Factors, you will compile and produce manifests of everything the Jaguar needs. Of personnel, only the strongest laborers, most able techs, savvy merchants, useful scientists, and triumphant warriors will be leaving Huntress.”

Abel Nevversan shifted his weight uncomfortably at the last sentence. Russou’s eyes fixed on the Scientist Factor, “I want our warrior’s legacies shipping in less than two weeks.  Make sure they are safe to travel to the Inner Sphere, Scientist, you are fully culpable should even a single strand of DNA be left behind or be damaged in transport."

“You there,“  Roger felt the coldness emanating from the commander’s voice, “you have three weeks to board our ‘Mech factories. They are to be off-world before any Trials are fought, as per the Khan’s orders.“

“That may be possible but what about the tooling?” Roger boldly asked as he realized he would have to explain why he interrupted the commander a second time.

“What are you talking about?” Russou barked it out like a marching order on the parade ground.

“Th-The tooling, ovKhan. The machines that make the tools to manufacture the machines you use to kill.”

“What of them?” 

“They are essential, ovKhan.  Without them in the Inner Sphere, the ‘Mech factory equipment will eventually fail. Without a steady supply of replacement parts that are ready-made to specification, it will not be possible to make more Clan-spec equipment.“

 Russou countered, “Can we not make more using the blueprints we already possess?”

“Doubtful, Commander. Even if we manage to make something like the technical specifications require, it could take years to make proper, Clan-spec material, as we would need to rebuild the supporting infrastructure from scratch.  We cannot make our best OmniMechs or equipment if the factories are idle because of some broken, vital part?”

“We will take the parts in storage.“

“With all due respect Galaxy commander, I must explain further.” Technician Factor Roger stood, “Our Clan will lose a full year of production if we move without those machines!”  Roger pointed his hand outside the office, as if the whole room could see what he was motioning towards, the Inner Sphere.  “Without the tooling we will only make so many of this ‘Mech or that ‘Mech.  With no replacement parts for the factories, when they are finally up and working again, the Jaguar will need more machines more often, so it will work them harder than before Operation REVIVAL.  There will be more frequent breakdowns and production will be delayed.  The other Clans will face the same issues, though the Ghost Bears will not. They moved most of their industry in the last decade and they will come with their power and try to claim our worlds and kill our Clan when our factories begin to fail!”  Roger fell into his seat, trembling for raised his voice to the Smoke Jaguar Galaxy Commander.  For a long moment Russou did nothing.  A sardonic half-smile cracked across his face. “Have it your way, then Tech Factor. Make it happen.”

Star Colonel Abel asked again, “Commander, who is coming to face our warriors?”

Howell ignored the man again and continued to address the lower castemen.  “Labor Factor Tyrus, your caste is responsible for coordinating traffic on the planet?” Unusually for a Clan, the Smoke Jaguars entrusted space traffic control to the Laborers, not their Merchants, who the Warriors distrusted above all other castes.

“Yes, commander.  Our traffic controllers coordinate with the other castes to ensure prompt transfer and delivery of people and material.”

“Make sure the proper people are put with their tasks and materials, then load up the DropShips with everything needed for the transfer to the Inner Sphere.  Priority One will be the genetic library. Weapons programs and the ‘Mech factories are second, third priority given to medical equipment, data, technology, and support personnel for all vital Clan operational needs.”   

Tyrus nodded and replied, “Pirate points are authorized for transfer, quiaff?”

“Aff. With required transponder codes and scheduling pre-approved. I do not want to kill any Jaguars, there will be precious few of us soon. Merchant Factor….”

“Vasili, Galaxy Commander. I am Merchan-“

“Shut up. You will assist all other castes in accomplishing their tasks.  Your uselessness will be made up for by doing so.”

“Aye, Galax-“

Howell cut him off again, “Scientist Factor Lawrence, how many dangers will there be transporting the Jaguar’s spawn?”

“Several, Commander.  But thanks to a program designed in Khan Theodore Osis’ waning years, we have a solution for moving the genetic library with haste.  However, the active legacies will need more care to move since they are this moment, being worked with.  Nevertheless, I see no issues on meeting your timeframes.”

“Suspend all operations and put active legacies in cold storage." He paused, "Tell me of Khan Osis's  plan, Lawrence.”

“It is simple and elegant.  After the Mongoose Absorption, Khan Theodore began to worry about what could happen to our Clan if another tried to Trial for the entire genetic repository.  He had the Repository rebuilt with heavy modifications during the Mt Szabo Jaguar carving.  Because of a special system of rails and lifts, in two hours we can retrieve all inactive legacies and have them safely stowed for transport in another two hours.  Working legacies require more than a day to properly refreeze and move.  Of course, this preparation was rendered less important when satellite repositories were created a century later.”

Galaxy Commander Howell was considering this when the commander of the 48th Jaguar Battle Cluster spoke in a low voice,  “It would be wise to place the sibkos with the evacuated legacies.  The Cub Masters can train them in zero-gee combat ahead of schedule.  They will be good killers when they arrive in the Inner Sphere.”

Russou agreed, “Yes Temo, they will be.  But we will keep the sibkos ready for Trial of Positions in the shadow of Mt Szabo, should the enemy attack and break the main line. Thier crucible trial will be under the eys of the Great Jaguar.” 

Howell chaged track,  “Tech Roger, do we have enough ‘Mechs to cover our losses in supporting this move with the forces on Huntress?"

“I will check with the manufacturers.  We average producing about three trinaries per month in all ‘Mech chassis, but most of that production goes directly to the Inner Sphere to replace our losses there.  We also have nearly five Trainaries of Aerospace Fighters, five or Battle Armour and nearly 14 of OmiMMechs ready for shipment.” Roger relaxed as Russou’s tone was only questioning. 

“See that those materials are available for immmidiate use, Tech Roger, I want to know what exactly is available before the end of day.” 

Roger ignored Russou insulting him as a tech instead of recognizing his importance as the Technician Factor.  Small price to pay for what I did earlier.  “Aff, Galaxy Commander.”

“Factors, you are dismissed. Carry out your orders. Any queries will be channeled to me by my adjutant, Star Captain Kala.“  The Factors of Clan Smoke Jaguar quickly filed out of the communication room. The door was closed.

Russou turned his attention fully to the the other Jaguar officers present.  “According to Khan Howell and as I said earlier, the so-called Core Clans are united against the Invading Clans.  Eight versus eight.  They will be attacking us no later than April 2, twenty-eight days from now.”

Star Colonel Abel raised his hand.

“No, Star Colonel Abel, we do not know who we will face.  It is possible we will be attacked dishonorably en masse by the Homeworlders, we could be attacked honorably one Clan against another, or they could decide to coordinate on shared planets and attack piecemeal, so we must be ready for any eventuality.”

“Commander Howell, they called us dezgra! Us! Smoke Jaguars! Our recent fighting against the Ghost Bears and Nova Cats showed we are not,” said Hadria Furey commander of the 63rd Jaguar Regulars in a furious voice, “I will choke them with their own damned blood and piss on them while they die!”  Hadria Furey was known as one of the most violent Jaguars in Clan space.  Her last Trial against the Diamond Sharks on Vinton had ended when she used her Elemental battle armor claw to pull out a popular Shark commander from his cockpit, amputate his arm, and beat him to death with it.  Because of the severe umbrage from the Sharks and the subsequent approval of the Jaguar saKhan, Furey was transferred from a Solahma Cluster back to the 63rd Regulars, where she promptly killed the last commander to assume her new position.

“They only see Turtle Bay and the glory they were too weak to claim themselves Hadria.”

“Do I look like I give a damn? I will turn those savashri fools into my personal meat puppets,” she growled.

Russou’s smiled. “Khan Brandon Howell ordered no zellbrigen shall be offered to any of the Homeworlder Clans.”

The room was made silent by this comment, though Hadria nodded and smiled.

“Are nuclear weapons authorized for release,” asked the 33rd Jaguar Assault’s commander, his frigid tone chilling the room.  Russou Howell eyed the man who had seated himself quietly at the bottom of the table.   Howell was a skilled commander and terrific fighter who instilled fear and respect into his subordinates, all except for that one.  The commander of the 33rd Jaguar Assault was a quiet, cold man.  He had never been known to yell at anyone and his calm, even demeanor unsettled even Hadria Furey.  It was rumored he had never met a joke he could laugh at.  When he spoke, a river of ice issued forth that froze the blood of the people around him.  If Russou’s combat skills were excellent for a Smoke Jaguar, Attila Kotare’s were unparalleled in the Jaguar’s Homeworld possessions.  Russou donned his jacket. Attila’s icy blue eyes made the effect of his voice worse.

“No, Star Colonel, they have not been released.”

Kotare answered in a new tone that sounded like an alcoholic about to receive his daily fix,  “When will they be allowed?”

“I have no order from the Khan concerning this. This matter is closed.”  You tread a dangerous line Kotare, thought Russou, nuclear weapos are the last resort of the dammed and we are far from such a precipice.  I doubt many would support your line of thinking, even if we faced Annihilation.

Hadria spoke,  “I am glad that I will soon be able to know and kill our attackers.,” her hand was shaped like the motion-capture glove she wore inside her Elemental suit and she closed it around an imaginary limb.

Russou nodded to her and then continued to address the entire officer Corps of the Homeworlds “Khan Howell has openly ordered every inch and building of Jaguar territory to be defended.“ Russou said. The room erupted in praise, the holovid commanders lending their movements and sound to the noise.

The 63rd Solahma’s Star Colonel cheered, “We will win great honor as we slay our foes and die!”

Another joyous cheer rang throughout the chamber. Attila studied his commander’s face. He didn’t buy into what Howell had said.  Attila’s voice knifed through the atmosphere.

“That is not what we are truly doing, is it Commander?”  The room’s happiness settled into uneasy confusion. 

“No, it is not, Star Colonel. The Khan has ordered all clusters to report to Huntress at best possible speed.”

The room erupted into anger. Russou allowed it to calm before he dropped the second bomb. “All clusters outside of Huntress are also ordered to report here via merchant shipping immediately.”

The commanders of the other Jaguar enclaves violently disagreed. “We are warriors! Sitting in a surat merchant ship is beneath us,” Brady Wirth, the 77th Solahma’s commander decried.

Attila spoke calmly, “You will do as ordered by your lawful commander, you foolish surat.” Brady drew back as if he had been slapped through the holovid transmitter.

Attila looked at his fingernails, showing all present that Brady Wirth was unworthy for him to look at, “Galaxy Commander Russou Howell is our chief and I support him wholeheartedly. The plan is trap our attacker and destroy him where we are able.  Coming home in merchant shipping will only reinforce the illusion to the Core Clans that we will fight everywhere.  It is that simple is it not my ovKhan?”  Russou had buttoned his jacket halfway before he had realized what he was doing. 

“Correct Star Colonel Kotare.  That precisely is the Khan’s order. “

“But why,”  Wirth was incredulous.

“Most of the Jaguar’s industry is here on Huntress.  I know we have a ‘Fighter line or two on Kirin, components made for other machines on Atreus, but the prize is here,”  Russou placed his index finger on his desk.  Khan Howell wants this place picked as clean as can be so nothing is left,“ he looked at Attila who bowed his head a fraction, “to the Core Clans.  Worry not about what is left behind, only toward what we can leave with.”

Howell straightened up, “All commands off Huntress are hereby ordered to compose a recorded batchall to the future attacker to draw him into the…“ Russou felt the word fly off his tongue like a sour grape, “…deception.  The Jaguar demands we serve the Clan over personal honor.“  A useful figure of speech, the Jaguar’s survival was now the focal point for their worries about honor and disgrace. Russou thought to himself.  He knew what they had to do to succeed in the coming weeks would force them to be as disgraceful as their former brethren in the Core Clans made them out to be.  He also knew that whoever was going to attack them would buy Huntress at a fearful price.  He would make sure of it.

“See to your duties, Star Colonels.”

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on November 05, 2015, 03:53:44 AM

Maps are available here:
https://www.mediafire.com/folder/ij747h7tnp2g3/Of_Flacons_and_Wolves (https://www.mediafire.com/folder/ij747h7tnp2g3/Of_Flacons_and_Wolves)

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on November 05, 2015, 04:07:40 AM

-13-
30th of April, 3063
Fortress Asguard
Tharkad, Donegal March, Federated Commonwealth

“I said attack, just like we did with the League.  Dam that little bastard Hohiro Kurita and his attempt to maintain his honour by using a few mercs on only four worlds, I want Dieron CUT OFF!” 

Archon-Prince Victor Steiner-Davion was angry, as he had just received news that the DCMS had joined the fighting in the Terran Corridor, just as the AFFC reacted in full force the Marik and Liao incursions in that region.  The young Archon-Prince was leading in his first real war, as the Federated Commonwealth was assaulted by no less than seven neighbouring states with ten separate strikes.

“Victor, rash decisions won’t win the war.”  Marshall of the Armies, Morgan Hasek-Davion said, “What seems to be working against Marik, won’t necessarily work against Kurita.  Yes, we have cut off Sirius and driven back the FWLM from most of the worlds we have hit, but they still have significant forces in theatre, strong reserves and the Capellan Confederation is still hitting worlds faster than we can reinforce them.”

Victor stared daggers at his Marshall, “I understand that Morgan, but they tried to take us by surprise and our commanders engaging our AMBUSH PROTOCALS worked better than I could have hoped for.  We need to hit them again and hard.” 

The development of the AMBUSH PROTOCAL followed the Tamar Conference, with each March pre-positioning transports for rapid counter-attacks by reserve forces.  Reserves in the Terran March had gone on an immediate counter-offensive, which left the League reeling, whilst reserves from the Crucis March rapidly came forward.  What little could be done on the Capellan front was enacted, though the two salients were as good as lost, whilst the Periphery March began to strike back against the Taurians.  On the Clan front, the Horses and Steel Vipers had slowed as reserves arrived and the AFFC was poised to drive the Ice Hellions off completely.  However, the main focus was on the Terran Corridor, where reserve forces from Skye and Donegal had massed on Alcor and WarShips were moving towards Sirius to finish the defence of that world off.

Before Morgan could respond, Victor held up a hand.  “Morgan, you cannot deny the surprise that the FWLM has suffered.  We have not only stopped their advance cold, we are ploughing a wider path through the corridor.  The FWLM has come in to this war over confident of what it can do to use, especially after its easy victories against Katherine.  We need to do the same to the Combine.  The forces on Alcor need to cut in behind Dieron and force Theodore to weigh up a potential lost cause with the League or keeping a District Capital.”

Morgan nodded once and then walked across the well-appointed room towards the bar.  He threw Victor a questioning look, got a shake of the head in return and so poured himself a drink from a decanter, not really looking at what he poured, more needing a drink in hand to help him think. 

“Well Victor, your points do have merit, they do, but, and I must emphasise the but, you are betting much on long odds.”

The Prince smiled “He who dare wins…To the Victor go the spoils, a few other catch phrases and such.  I feel this Morgan, we have them.  They have underestimated us, underestimated the Federated Commonwealth, something I never thought would happen.  We are being attacked by seven opponents, we have three on the ropes, two more unsure of what we will do next and two others that we can afford to deal with at a later date.  It is there for the taking!”  He finished with a flourish of his arms.

“Prove it to me Victor.”

Victor looked at Morgan sharply, “I’m not a cadet anymore.”

“No you’re not, you are the Archon-Prince of the Federated Commonwealth in the midst of a four front war “feeling” his way to victory.  I am your Marshall of the Armies and it my job to make sure you make the right decisions, based on hard facts.”

Victor looked ready to bite back, but then breathed in and calmed himself.  “Ok Morgan, fair point, I’ll prove it to you.  Ask away.”

Morgan leant back against the bar, “Let’s start with logistics then.”  Victor nodded.  “At current rates of expenditure, we will be unable to keep forces in the field supplied beyond October, six months from now.  If you can’t get past that issue, the rest are moot.”

Victor looked to the floor then moved across the room to sit in the grey twin couch closet to Morgan. “The Capellans are slowing dramatically and we have good data on their supply situation, they can’t force a long war and will dig in soon, of that I am sure and you have seen that data as well.  The Taurian right flank is up in the air and in trouble, though their drive towards the Pleiades is still going well.  Once they get that gem and we can’t really stop them at the moment, we sue for peace.  They will jump at the offer, as by that stage the Capellans will be winding there operations right back.  That calms a third of the entire war effort, though yes, it is the smallest part of it.”

Morgan interjected, “What if they don’t stop, either of them?"

“Then they over extend and we drive them back in the medium term.  They just don’t have the numbers to swallow too much of the Federated Suns.”

Morgan nodded, “True enough.  What about the League and Combine?”

Victor looked up, “That’s where the shock of Sirius and Dieron comes in.  We give them no choice but to escalate.  With the Capellan and Taurians cooling off, the League won’t want to face us alone, and there is too much activity on the Clan front and too few years before the Truce ends for Theodore to want to get engaged in a major war with us.”

“The League could keep going alone, “ responded Morgan, “but I think you have Thomas’s metal.  He does not want a long war and won’t risk exposing the League unnecessarily.”

Victor nodded slowly, “That leaves us the Clans.  If we can focus our resources there, we can at least halt their advance, if not regain ground, especially from the weaker two Clans.”

“What of losses?” added Morgan

Victor pursed his lips as he thought, “We have lost thirty worlds, with five more cut off and taken five in return.  If we can play the Taurians and Capellans, we can start to reclaim worlds elsewhere.  Our regimental losses though, that we have to wear for some time, as new Mech’s and other equipment needs to go towards supporting active commands.”

Morgan pulled a scrap of paper from inside his jacket, “Have you seen the latest on the lost commands?”

Victor shook his head.

“None in the recent attacks.”  Victor smiled as Morgan continued, “We have lost thirteen commands total so far, including six RCT’s, but I do think the worst is behind us for now.  Looks like the Panzer shock has worn off and the units engaged are thinking on their feet again.”
 
Victor leaned back in the chair and rubbed his eyes, “They were bound to Morgan.  Whenever we give them the opportunity to touch the avatar of the FedCom mantra, they always measure up.”

Morgan cocked his head to one side, his eyes curious, “What do you mean?”

Victor looked across to Morgan, “I mean that when we let them advance, with the shackles off, they always perform.  When we hinder their advance or let them get struck at, they seem to doubt themselves.  Father should have let them off the leash in ’39, I think he regretted not doing so later, despite what he thought at the time.”

“It was the right call at the time.” Said Morgan

“No it wasn’t Morgan.  He blinked, the ultimate gambler blinked.  Less than twelve months of operations and he pulled back.  I have modelled about fifteen different scenarios and pushing for six more months, even with the Combine winning most fights would have seen a border wide collapse of the DCMS.  It was a pivotal moment in history and a decision we are still paying for today.”

Morgan took a long breath, “That’s a conversation for another time and I disagree with you entirely, so I expect we will need to spend some long peaceful nights arguing about it over a good bottle.”  He smiled as he finished

“Sounds like a plan Morgan.  Have I convinced you.”

“Not entirely, but the basis seems sound.  I want to run it by the operations teams to see what your thinking would allow us to accomplish.”

There was silence for several minutes as both men focused their minds on the ongoing war, turning issues over.  Victor broke the silence, “Any word on the FWLN?”

Morgan put his glass down, untouched, and walked over to sit opposite Victor, “They are massing over Marik.  So far we believe there is a Thera, Black Lion, two cruisers, two frigates, four destroyers and four corvettes.”

Victor made a strange looking grimace, “Fourteen ships with a strong core.  What is their likely target?”

“Sirius, or so our sources say.  We have ships from the Donegal, Capellan and Crucis March on their way to link up with the Tikonov Squadron over Sirius in two months, about when we expect the League task force to arrive.”

“Our force strength?”  Victor’s eyes narrowed, knowing that the largest naval battle in the Inner Sphere in centuries had the potential to be fought, with the victor able to dominate shipping throughout the Terran Corridor.

“Oddly enough, fourteen of our own.  The Mjolnir FCS Fylgia, three Avalons, Durandel and nine Fox’s.”

Victor did not look impressed, “We will be hard pressed to keep them out of the system with that force.”

Morgan shook his head, “I said the same thing to Admiral Hood, but I was pulled up short.  The Admiral says that we have more than a 35% advantage in firepower and staying ability.”

Victor looked pleasantly surprised, “An advantage a good Admiral or pure chance could all but nullify.  Our losses will be heavy either way.”

“True,” said Morgan as he nodded “We also have the advantage that the FWLN probably won’t expect to find a fleet of equal size to its own over Sirius.”

Victor smiled thinly, “Agreed.”  He then asked “Have we had any more information on the fighting within the Clans?”

Morgan grimaced and shook his head, whilst raising one hand palm up, “None whatsoever.  The Jaguars and Nova Cats are no longer fighting with the Combine and the Bears and Wolves seem to have settled down as well.  What the final fall out was is still unclear, though some worlds seem to have changed hands.  We have got some odd reports from some Loki cells behind the lines that indicate a sudden surge in communications between Tamar and Sudeten and numerous worlds across the Occupation Zones, though there have been zero new troop movements that we have seen.  Something has them a little agitated, but no one knows what it is as yet.”

There was another moment of silence, “If you don’t mind Victor, I want to see Ops about your plans, get them onto their analysis nice and quick, just so you can say I told you so.”

Victor smiled at the Marshall, “Here is hoping I do.”

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on November 09, 2015, 02:58:13 AM

The Following extracts come from a Clan Diamond Shark report summarizing actions in the Homeworlds.  Unfortunately the beginning of the document was corrupted in transfer...

Khan Sennet,

The $%(*#&%(&@ of the twelve #&$# #$)#^ of Kerensky, by the eight Core Clans, was a process that took #$% #$)(!*$and transformed the Clan Homeworlds.  More importantly, the %$)#*&%(@*put in motion events that will likely see their final impact within the Inner Sphere from 3085 onwards.

The following document tries, in its own limited way, to shed some light on the events and motivations that moved Clan society from its steady, if conflicted state of 3060, to its divided and rapidly changing one of 3065 and the developments following from that time.

The summary provided in this document is just that, a summary.  It is the work of our Lamprey Agents, left behind as the Star Adders swept over us.  That some managed to last so long as they did and report to us at regular intervals, indicates that the ilKhan may well have known of the presence of our agents and has used them to feed us the information he wants us to see.
This last is supposition, but it fits with the picture of our operations that we have developed, and as a tool of intimidation by the ilKhan, and though it has failed to bother us here in our sanctuary, it could be devastating for our remaining brethren in the Inner Sphere. 

Dissemination of this information is critical; otherwise the #)% (*#!@*&% will reach Terra before any of us are ready.

Watchmaster Adrian Nagasawa,
&^$$&&$&,
January 15th, 30%*

The Path to Rejection

Khan Cassias N’Buta of Clan Star Adder had long seen the invasion of the Inner Sphere, through Operation REVIVAL, as an effort doomed to failure.  In N’Buta’s view, too little force was dispatched and too little coordination undertaken to gain victory over the Inner Sphere.  With the massive defeat of Tukayyid in 3052 and the devastating Refusal War of 3057, N’Buta rapidly became convinced that the Invading Clans were setting all of the sixteen remaining Clans on a path to destruction.

N’Buta had begun work behind the scenes from 3054, to gain support for concerted action against the invaders, with several Clans, most notably Clans Burrock, Cloud Cobra, Fire Mandrill and Star Adder ready and willing to carve out a more prominent place in the Homeworlds for themselves.

With the sudden departure of Clan Ghost Bear from 3057, followed by the Wolf transfer of large portions of the Falcon industrial base to the Inner Sphere, Khan N’Buta and his closest allies were deeply concerned that the Invading Clans would strip the Homeworlds of valuable materials and leave the remaining Clans there to rot.  Providing further impetus to the Adder Khan’s plans, the invading Clans began to engage in heavy fighting against each other in the Occupation Zones in mid-3062, with just five years remaining before the end of the Truce. 

Such bickering by the chosen few and their attitude to the great task of the Crusade and to those in the Homeworlds, left a bitter taste in the mouth of many of the remaining eight Clans, with even support for Clan Wolf from its allies in Clans Coyote  and Goliath Scorpion  declining.  The attitude of the now hugely powerful Wolves to their long times allies had cooled, fuelled by perceptions and realities on both sides.

N’Buta, ever the canny judge of other’s outlooks, first ensured his own Clan was behind him before first approaching the Burrocks.  A Clan ever eager to rise up on the ruin of others, Clan Burrock saw a war against the invaders as the perfect vehicle for its expansion.  The Cloud Cobras came next, and believed that the Invaders had fallen from the Way and that a new path needed forging.  Under N'Buta as ilKhan, the Cobras believed that they could find the means to bring all the Clans to the right path, with the more practical Cobras also seeing the chance for great material gain.

Clan Fire Mandrill, recently unified under Khan Nathan Ravenwater, a former Hell’s Horseman, was next on Khan N’Buta’s travels.  Needing an opportunity to test his troops, without suffering from counter-strikes from other Clans, the eminent practicality of the Star Adder’s war brought Khan Ravenwater on side.

Then departure of Clans Ice Hellion and Hell’s Horses for the Inner Sphere in 3060, along with the merchant manoeuvrings of Clan Diamond Shark, only added fuel to the fire and aided in N’Butu’s efforts to sway Clan Blood Spirit, despite their hostility to most other Clans.  The Ravens soon came on side as well, as their desperate need for resources to fuel their naval growth drove the Ravens to strike opportunistically.

With six of the Clans remaining in the Homeworlds on side, N’Buta presented his case to the Coyotes and Goliath Scorpions.  Approaching the Coyotes first, he pointed out how far those in the Inner Sphere had fallen from the original traditions of the Clans and that their one time close ally was little more than an opportunistic Falcon in Wolf’s clothing.  Disappointed with the Wolves and seeing little chance for glory and growth outside of the Homeworlds, the Coyotes agreed to N’Buta’s plan, despite their long enmity with the Star Adders.

Lastly, the resource poor Goliath Scorpions had the stark choice of joining the campaign or facing the wrath of those remaining in the Homeworlds at the end of the fighting.  Unexpectedly, the Goliath Scorpions were more accommodating than Khan N’Buta had expected, but pushed for several more lenient parameters for the Adders planned war.  Though surprised by the Scorpion’s attitude, N’Buta saw the wisdom behind the words of the Scorpion Khans.

THE RAVEN AND THE WOLF
The combination of the fleets of Clan Jade Falcon and Clan Wolf, following the Refusal War, spun Clan Snow Raven into chaos.  With a single action, Clan Wolf became the most powerful naval force within Clan Space, eclipsing the one aspect of Clan Snow Raven’s power that had always seemed secure.  In response, Clan Snow Raven began a crash reactivation of numerous ships from its naval cache, as well as starting construction of WarShips in all six of its docks capable of doing so.  Gradually at first, but rapidly accelerating in number, every Clan began to renovate its own cache vessels or begin construction of new vessels, in order to match rivals or maintain its place in the pecking order.  By the time of the Homeworlds War, many new vessels were in, or close to, service and played a large role in the War.  However, the Raven’s paranoia and desire to maintain their naval supremacy would drive the Clan to war and see it act in ways that many other Homeworld Clans frowned upon.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on November 09, 2015, 03:00:52 AM

The Rejection and the Homeworlds War

The Call by Clan Star Adder for the election of a new ilKhan, to begin the planning for Operation REVIVAL’s recommencement in 3067, viewed as premature by some, remained for others as a prudent measure.  By installing an ilKhan now, the successful candidate might be able to combat the increasing frictions in the Clans and begin thorough preparations for the invasion’s resumption.

However, unbeknownst to the Invading Clans, the eight Clans of the Adder Alliance did not intend to allow the invaders to take control of the Grand Council.  During a virtual Kurultai in December of 3062, Khan N’Buta moved that the election of the next ilKhan proceed without the need for all the Khans to gather on Strana Mechty.  Though a major change to the way the Clans traditionally elected an ilKhan, this proposal was something of a final test for the invaders, to see how far they had fallen.  With most actively in combat against each other, or the Inner Sphere and Clans Steel Viper, Hell’s Horses and Ice Hellion about to invade the Federated Commonwealth, Khan N’Buta got his way with little difficulty. 

Thursday the 5th of March 3063 was the date for the virtual Grand Council, which would elect a new ilKhan and N’Buta had planned to ensure that he alone would ascend to the ilKhanship.  The eight Homeworlds Clans had all pledged their votes and in order to ensure he would gain a majority, he followed the simple expedient of bribing Clan Diamond Shark.  N’Buta managed this by offering the Diamond Sharks major trade deals with the eight Homeworld Clans, which turned the trick, with the Sharks unseemly in their haste to agree to the deal.  With the Diamond Sharks in the bag, N’Buta was confident in the Grand Council’s ability to elect him.

The Black Council, named so by both sides of the coming Clan divide, began with little ceremony and rapidly proceeded to the nominations for ilKhan.  Nominated as candidates by their fellow Khans were Khans Phelan Kell of the Wolves, Brandon Howell of the Smoke Jaguars and Cassias N’Buta of Clan Star Adders.  When the first vote was complete, N’Buta had 16 votes (the Blood Spirits had abstained to his and his allies’ surprise) to Kell’s 6 and Howell’s 8.  When Kell withdrew and urged his supporters to back N’Buta, he not only assured the ascension of the Star Adder, but also sealed his Clan’s fate in the Homeworlds.  With nearly 3:1 odds to face, Howell knew he was beaten and withdrew, leaving the ilKhanship to the Adder Khan.

Before any Khan could grow accustomed to the new order, ilKhan Cassias N’Buta dropped the bombshell he had been years planning.  Condemning the invaders as corrupt and having failed in their duties of invading the Inner Sphere, he informed the seven invading Clans and Clan Diamond Shark, that the remaining Homeworlds Clans were hereby declaring War upon them in order to cast them out of the Homeworlds and Clan society.

Khan Jorgensen of the Ghost Bears immediately challenged the ilKhan, stating that such actions were illegal and would require large majorities in Grand Council voting for each Clan to be Abjured, however, N’Buta only laughed.  Khan N’Buta’s reply was short and to the point, leaving little doubt as to the intentions of the eight allied clans.  “Through our weapons and strength, we eight true Clans of Kerensky will drive out those who have sought cheap glory and enrichment at the expense of their brothers.  We will cast you out in the true Clan way, by force of arms and your defeat will mark your exile from this body for all time.”  With those words, the eight Clans of the Homeworlds gave their new foes twenty eight days to vacate their holdings; a measure insisted upon by the Goliath Scorpions and strongly backed by the Coyotes and Cloud Cobras.  At the end of that time, the Homeworld Clans would strike en masse and drive out what they could not destroy on the battlefield.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on November 09, 2015, 03:03:29 AM

The Homeworlds War

The shock of the Homeworld Clan’s actions stunned those in the Inner Sphere, but the calculation the Core Clans made was critical.  With all but the Diamond Shark’s Khans in the Inner Sphere, coordinating an escape would be difficult at best.  Only Clan Wolf had a Homeworld’s commander in place prior to 3063, with Galaxy Commander Katyusha Kerensky moving rapidly to accelerate the Wolves plans to relocate the remainder of their Homeworlds assets to the Inner Sphere.

However, despite each Clan scrambling to protect what it could, as it extricated itself from the coming war within the Homeworlds, each faced planning by Cassias N’Buta that predated the Black Council and saw each Clan the target of a single Homeworld Clan.  Though some Clans, like Clans Diamond Shark and Hell’s Horses, had significant power remaining in the Homeworlds, there was little that any could realistically do against the focused strength of eight cooperating Clans.

As March moved into April, the Homeworlds Clan struck in force at nearly every world in the Kerensky Cluster and Pentagon, with little quarter asked for, or given.  In the case of Clans like the Blood Spirits, righteous vengeance lit the way and unmerciful power was utilised in all assaults.  Others, like Clans Goliath Scorpion, Cloud Cobra and to a lesser extent, Clan Star Adder, at least offered a way out for foes with strong defences, lessening their losses and making gains that would otherwise have costed them dearly.

Prior to the Black Council, each of the Homeworld Clans had bid to determine who would be their target, however, in order to minimise the losses and ensure that a Clan’s target for expulsion did not escape with valuable industry and resources, bidding was highly conservative in some instances, as recommended by Khan N’Buta.  Though uncomfortable for some Clans, most saw the need to take as much as possible from the invaders, to ensure its place in the new order.  However, some Clans refused to see the lesson the Adder Khan tried to impart and drove themselves, or others, into dangerous bids.

Despite the four weeks provided no Clan, bar the Wolves, was able to move an evacuation plan into high gear.  Every Clan was caught in the midst of loading operations and suffered to a greater or lesser extent at the hands of the ilKhan’s plan.  The result was a bloodbath on many worlds, with civilians caught in the crossfire and transports targeted as they lifted from the surface.

ILKHAN CASSIUS N’BUTA
In his mid-fifties, Khan N'Buta is short and thin, with unkempt grey hair. Despite his small stature, he radiates an undeniable air of command. Cassius has led Clan Star Adder since 3035; before becoming Khan, he served as saKhan for four years. His duties keep him mostly on Sheridan or Strana Mechty, though he eagerly leads his warriors into battle when necessary.  What surprised observers of the Star Adders is the length to which N’Buta has gone in order to secure his vision of the Clan’s future.  Though his planning, politicising and actions leading up to his election as ilKhan were significant in and of themselves,  his actions since 3065 are even more important to the future of both the Homeworld Clans and those within the Inner Sphere.  During the early 3080’s and with his age approaching 75, N’Buta knew it was time to step down.  Having led the Clans for over twenty years and left a mark as important as that of Nicholas Kerensky, ilKhan Cassius N’Buta has set the stage for the next and most devastating chapter of Clan history.  With N’Buta’s children now actively planning their return, in only a short time we will be able to tell if his works will match his vision of the future of the Clans.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on November 09, 2015, 03:05:24 AM

The Bidding for War

The bidding that took place between the eight Clans, prior to the Black Council, was as fierce and cunning as any seen in Clan history.  The agreement saw that a ranking of each Clan facing exile was made and bidding on each would proceed in turn, with each Clan to be bid on drawn randomly.

Much too every Clan’s dismay, the Diamond Sharks were drawn first, the strongest militarily in the Homeworlds of those to be ejected and the third most valuable in terms of resources and industry.  No Clan but the Star Adders could match the Diamond Sharks on the field of battle and make any profit from it.  The Adders knew that the opportunity to lead by example was upon them and bided accordingly.  Forty five Star Adder Clusters would face the thirty oversized Diamond Shark Clusters in the single largest campaign of the war.

Drawn second was Clan Ice Hellion, poor in resources, but with a strong military, by Homeworlds standards, to deal with.  Most initial bids by the remaining Clans, bar the Coyotes, were close to the cutdown, in an attempt to push another Clan over the line inadvertently.  However, conservative second round bids showed that no Clan truly desired facing the Hellions.  However, Clan Goliath Scorpion, seeing the example set by the Coyotes, knew it could be left facing even poorer choices and bid twenty Clusters to face the Hellions seventeen.  The remaining six Clans applauded the Scorpions and planned for better pickings.

The third draw was Clan Ghost Bear, whose two Clusters defended two worlds bereft of industry or real value.  Here, the larger Clans forced the small Fire Mandrills to face the Bears, as the size of the Mandrill Touman prevented them submitting a bid above any other Clans.  The actions of the larger Clans left the furious Mandrills with the Ghost Bears by default, until Khan Absalom Truscott of Clan Star Adder requested that three Mandrill Galaxies form part of the Adder bid.  Gladly accepting, the Mandrills looked forward to more gains and Clan Star Adder had again played the peacemaker and benefactor, gaining strong support from the Mandrills for the future.

The forth Clan drawn was Clan Nova Cat, moderately placed both industrially and militarily within the Homeworlds.  Clan Blood Spirit set the early mark, bidding thirty-one Clusters, with other bids closer to forty.  However, through canny bidding, eventually reducing their bid to twenty-four Clusters, the Blood Spirits gained the honour of facing the Nova Cats.  In reality, the strength of their bid was the small size of their Clusters, which equalled about eighteen Nova Cat Clusters, making for what would be a tough fought campaign.

Clan Steel Viper was drawn fifth and with a relatively poor industrial base compared to the Wolves and Jaguars to come, none of the remaining Clans wished to fight the Vipers if they could.  Bidding was agonizingly slow, as each Clan cut small pieces from their Touman, however, it was a simple error on the part of the Snow Ravens that saw them earn the dubious honour of facing their old foe.  Nineteen Raven Clusters would face the six small Viper Clusters, where glory would be fleeting.  Few mourned the Raven’s mistake, which cost Khan McKenna her life, as Raven motivations and politicking had grated on several of the Clans present.

The prize of Clan Wolf was drawn third to last, with the remaining three Clans bidding hard, although the Coyotes bid more conservatively, less from former friendship, than from an understanding of Wolf strength and abilities.  The bidding came down to a fierce but good natured one between the Burrocks and Cloud Cobras, with the Burrocks gaining the glory with a bid of sixteen Clusters to face the Wolf fifteen, with only four Clusters in reserve if they broke bid.  Many expected the Burrocks to learn the hard way that the Wolf was not to be trifled with when cornered.

Clan Hell’s Horses was drawn second to last, with Clan Coyote able to keep it bids above those of the Cloud Cobras, forcing the Aerospace minded Clan into the campaign against the conventionally minded Horses.  This bidding round and the practices of the Coyotes, which were similar to those of the Ravens, did little to endear them to many of the other Clans.  More so, the Cloud Cobras would go in facing numerical inferiority, though their strong fleet was expected to be of great assistance.  Nevertheless, the unity the Adders sought was sorely tested by the bitter feud between the Cloud Cobras and Coyotes.

Finally, with a conservative bid of seventeen Clusters, the Coyotes would face the eight defending Smoke Jaguar Clusters, which protected the strong holdings of that Clan and the prize of the highly industrialised world of Huntress. 

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on November 09, 2015, 03:17:58 AM

The Campaign for the Homeworlds

The 2nd of April 3063 saw the emergence of scores of Core Clan forces in the systems that the Invading Clans were desperately trying to evacuate.  Nearly every world in the Pentagon and Kerensky Cluster was targeted, bar the handful that were held exclusively by the Homeworld Clans.  Naval support for the larger attacks, was a given, seeing some of the largest naval engagements ever fought by the Clans taking place.

One unexpected move, which each of the departing Clans made, was to launch whatever ships were being constructed or refurbished, no matter their state of readiness.  These ships, many of which were lost, nevertheless made a huge difference for the fleeing Clans, as they gave their all covering the evacuations.

BY THE NUMBERS
Much has been made of ilKhan Cassias N’Buta’s plan to strike with entire Clans against their foes, instead of mobilising forces on shared worlds to strike against the invading Clans where they stood.  From what we have been able to determine, N’Buta saw the utilisation of entire Clans against a single foe as a far more efficient use of forces than scattered piecemeal attacks, ensuring that fewer would escape and that nearly all worlds would be assaulted simultaneously.  Though this strategy strained the transport assets of some Clans, the lack of coordination at the strategic level, on worlds that were hit by several Clans, bore out the ilKhan’s rationale.  With the inability of the eight core Clans to coordinate well at the Galaxy level, there would have been chaos at the cluster level had forces in place struck out at the nearest target.  This policy prevented needless losses and potential territorial bickering after the war and the payoffs were huge for each of the eight Homeworld Clans.

Clan Diamond Shark and Clan Star Adder with Clan Fire Mandrill

Clan Diamond Shark did itself a great favour when it executed Khan Ian Hawker for incompetence and elevated Angus Labov from the Merchant Caste to act as saKhan and commander of the evacuation, as Khan Sennet led the defence of the Shark forces defending the departure areas.  Ten years earlier, Clan Diamond Shark, even with six Clusters in the Inner Sphere, could have expected to face down the Star Adders for a considerable period of time, however, the assistance of the now unified Fire Mandrills meant that the fighting would be hard on the Sharks.

One advantage Clan Diamond Shark had was its huge merchant fleet and its numerous Potemkin-class troop cruisers.  It would be these two assets, which would allow the Sharks to extract much from the Homeworlds and form some type of future for the Clan.

Unlike the other Clans being assaulted, the Diamond Sharks had limited numbers of civilians in the Inner Sphere and so utilised their huge lift capacity to move as many civilians as possible from their enclaves.  This focus on their civilians first would force the Diamond Sharks to leave behind much industrial hardware, but was a sacrifice the Clan made for the sake of its own survival.

The Star Adders knew they were in for a tough fight on most worlds and assigned several to the Fire Mandrills in order to allow them to concentrate their troops against key targets.  Khan Truscott was unwilling to fight next to Mandrill warriors, for the simple reason that they still had difficulty coordinating with each other, despite ten years of unity.  Coordinating with another Clan would be beyond them and would cost the Adders unnecessary losses if attempted.

Babylon
The Shark capital of Babylon was well defended, with the Clan’s Alpha Galaxy and nine WarShips on hand to protect it.  However, the Shark naval force contained four ships in various states of repair, three cache ships undergoing reactivation and the first of the new Hatakaze-class destroyers.

In order to break the Sharks and allow a swift landing, the Adders tasked the Mandrill fleet units to assist in the assault, the only case where this happened and one that confirmed Khan Truscott’s thoughts about Mandrill coordination.  The five Fire Mandrill and four Star Adder WarShips operated as distinct entities, despite the pleas of Star Admiral Azel LeFabre for better coordination.  The result of this division of action displayed itself through the damage the Diamond Shark fleet inflicted upon the invaders.  By focusing on one force and then the other, the Diamond Sharks destroyed three Mandrill and two Adder vessels, whilst forcing a third to emergency jump out of the system, at the cost of three lost and two captured by the allied Clans.  However, the four remaining Shark ships were able to keep the three remaining and badly damaged allied ships at bay, whilst the evacuation proceeded. 

The Fire Mandrills lost the CFM Firedrinker, CFM Rancor (both Lola III) and CFM Reaver (Sovetskii Soyuz), whilst the Adders lost the CSA Stellar Serpent (Aegis) and CSA Nygaard (Sovetskii Soyuz).  Losses for the Diamond Sharks were the CDS Space Hunter (Lola III), CDS Hunter’s Dream (Aegis) and the CDS Collector (Samarkand II).  Additionally, the CDS Tracey (Lola III) was captured by the Fire Mandrills and the CDS Hatakaze (Hatakaze) by the Star Adders.

The chaos of the space battle and the need to face two separate forces prevented the Sharks from engaging the inbound transports and with the Ice Hellions fighting for their lives against a large Goliath Scorpion fleet nearby, the Sharks were in no mood to gamble their convoy cover force. 

Clan Star Adder’s Alpha Galaxy landed and advanced in a broad arc, yet found itself stymied by the Sharks, who threw Zellbrigen out the window and engaged in all manner of dishonourable tactics.  Losses mounted on both sides, but the Sharks were able to maintain a fighting retreat to their transports and lift off under the cover of the remaining fleet units.

The evacuation of Babylon was one of the Diamond Shark’s more successful endeavours, with half the military industry on world removed along with two portable orbital yards and nearly 700,000 civilians.  Despite their success, there was still much gained by the Star Adders and Fire Mandrills.  The remaining military facilities the Adders gifted to the Mandrills, along with over 6 million civilians.  However, Clan Star Adder kept the Shark’s large orbital yards and fleet docks and absorbed over 26 million Diamond Shark civilians.

Barcella
Second only to Babylon in importance for Clan Diamond Shark, Barcella was a world long shared with Clan Nova Cat.  Though both Clans had agreed to cooperate in the defence of the world, events overtook them, as Clan Star Adder and Blood Spirit coordinated the timing of their assault, forcing the Diamond Sharks to face the Adders alone. 

Above Barcella, the Diamond Sharks had a squadron of Carracks, with an escort of Corvettes, Destroyers and a single Aegis-class Cruiser.  Despite their numbers, there were nine ships in all, the Shark fleet was a weak force compared to that which Clan Star Adder sent against the world.  Lead in by a pair of Battleships, the Adder fleet had an even mix of supporting Cruisers and lighter vessels.  The battle between the two forces was quick and one sided.  Eight Diamond Sharks ships fell and Adder boarding parties captured the CDS Bloodlust (Aegis).  Despite these losses, the Diamond Sharks destroyed the CSA Tehuantepec (Essex) and crippled the CSA Vicious Fang (Fredesa).  The main achievement of the Shark fleet was the attempt of several of their vessels to ram the two Battleships, forcing both ships to move back from the battle.  The Diamond Shark vessels lost were the CDS Star Swimmer, CDS Bloodletter, CDS Devourer (all Carrack), CDS Sharon (Essex), CDS Swift Strike (Fredesa), CDS Predator (Lola III) and CDS Bold Venture (Volga).

With the evacuation’s WarShip cover destroyed above them, the defending Diamond Shark Beta Galaxy was limited in its options whilst defending against their opposite number from Clan Star Adder.  Within hours, the Adders had the Sharks on the run and the remainder of the evacuation disintegrated into scattered groups of ships lifting off and endeavouring to avoid the remaining Adder WarShips in orbit.  Though many escaped, more were lost and in the end only a little over 300,000 civilians escaped, along with only a quarter of the world’s vital military industries and a single mobile orbital yard.  This left the Adders in possession of several excellent OmniMech lines, orbital yards and sixteen and a half million civilians.  Of all the Diamond Shark evacuations, Barcella was the largest disaster, with hundreds of thousands of civilians and huge quantities of materials shot down over the world, along with heavy fleet and ground force losses.

Delios
Delios was one of the minor Diamond Shark holdings that Clan Star Adder passed off to Clan Fire Mandrill to assault.   Beta Galaxies 12th and 19th Striker Clusters were to deal with the Diamond Sharks 44th Cruiser from Zeta Galaxy.   The fighting on Delios, though no les savage than on other worlds was the first to display the real strength of the Diamond Shark’s military practices.  The large Shark Clusters were able to take heavy losses and remain functional in their role of defending the evacuation zones, before pulling back and lifting off themselves.  By the time the Sharks departed Delios, 100,000 of the 700,000 civilians in the enclave were safely aboard transports along with the 44th.

Lum
Another world left to the Fire Mandrills, the small Shark enclave on Lum had been raided several times by the Snow Ravens, which the Fire Mandrills complained to the ilKhan about, earning the Snow Ravens a censure from the ilKhan over the matter.  Eta’s 21st Battle and 12th Irregulars were to deal with Shark’s 51st Striker, from Zeta Galaxy.  As on other such worlds, the limited size of the Mandrill Clusters and their inability to coordinate well with each other, saw the Sharks withdraw in good order with more than 850,000 civilians in tow.  However, despite their success in pulling off world, more than 5.5 million remained.

New Kent
The Viper Homeworld was host to a large Snow Raven invasion fleet and additional strikes against the Ice Hellions by Clan Goliath Scorpion, leaving the small Fire Mandrill force of the 42nd and 55th Battle Clusters from Delta Galaxy to approach the planet unmolested.  The defending 27th Combined Striker from Zeta Galaxy was able to control the battlefield and airspace with its oversized fighter complement.  The call for cover by the Fire Mandrills to seal off the system, gained only the Snow Raven’s refusal and in their own words “…cover for the inadequacies of other Clans…”  This meant that the Diamond Sharks were able to evacuate nearly 600,000 civilians farom the world and though 2.2 million remained, New Kent was one of the Shark’s more successful operations.

Paxon
Another of the Diamond Shark’s successful evacuations, defending Paxon was Omega Galaxy, rebuilt since its heroic last stand on Tukayyid, but now possessing only limited experience.  Nevertheless, in the same fashion as those who defended the Shark retreat on Tukayyid, the Omega warriors on Paxon went toe to toe with the Star Adder’s Epsilon Galaxy, breaking the 4th Adder Assault Cluster before retreating to their transports in good order.  Of the 4.5 million civilians on world, Omega got 150,000 off, though far more importantly, they managed to get sixty precent of the worlds military industries loaded and shipped before evacuation.

Priori
Priori was the primary target of Clan Fire Mandrill and saw the entire Mandrill Alpha Galaxy, with a single Cluster from Beta Galaxy descend to face off against the Shark’s Sigma Galaxy.  The 61st Air Assault Cluster was able to provide an umbrella of air cover that the Mandrills were never able to threaten, but despite this, the Mandrills landed so close to the Shark evacuation zone that they cut off the main convoys carrying the primary industrial and scientific material the Sharks wished to take with them.  Though the loss of these convoys was a major blow, Sigma Galaxy was able to ensure that was as far as the Mandrills got, holding the line from then on and evacuating 400,000 of the enclave’s 4.4 million civilians.

Strana Mechty
Every Clan was involved in actions on Strana Mechty and although the world played home to limited military industry, its huge population made it valuable to all.  The Diamond Shark enclave was defended only by Zeta Galaxy’s Agate Skate, which faced 61st Guards and 16th Assault Clusters from the Fire Mandrill’s Beta and Eta Galaxies.  As before, limited coordination from the Mandrills saw the Skate, despite serious losses, mange to lead a strong evacuation, which slipped off in the chaos around the world and took 1.3 of the 12 million Shark civilians on world with it.

Strata Dominigo
saKhan Angus Labov defended Strata Dominigo personally, making sure that huge masses of HarJel were taken and the facilities to produce it left in ruins.  Over the world orbited all six of the Shark’s Potemkins and the CDS Nagasawa, a Sovetskii Soyuz-class Cruiser.   The Star Adder fleet sent to break the Shark squadron consisted of a Battleship, three Cruisers and two Destroyers.  The Nagasawa managed to draw off the CSA Brisbane (Texas) CSA Divine Conquest (Sovetskii Soyuz) and was destroyed for its trouble, however, that left the superbly massed firepower of the six Potemkins to gut first the CSA Black Adder (Carrack) and then the CSA Starfire (Essex), before severely damaging and driving off the CSA Paralyser (Aegis) and CSA Eagle (Essex).  The return of the Brisbane and Divine Conquest was met with the same precise massed volley’s and both vessels were broken, left for the Adder’s to salvage, though they did deal extensive damage to the CDS Titanic, CDS Tsunami and CDS Red Tide (all Potemkin).

With all attention focused on the naval battle, and the Shark squadron loath to leave its position of the primary evacuation point, the Adder’s Delta Galaxy was able to land unopposed and advance on the Diamond Shark Gamma Galaxy.  Delta tore into Gamma, overrunning the Emerald Skate and driving off the 28th Cruiser before advancing on the remaining defenders.  This forced saKhan Labov to leave many behind, though he was able to get more than half the military industry and nearly 2.5 million civilians off world and crammed onto the Potemkin squadron.  The Adders seized less than half the enclave’s population, but gained several valuable military sites that Delta had managed to overrun.

Tathis
Tathis was a disaster for Clan Diamond Shark and an example of just how lucky the Clan had been through circumstance and the Clan’s inherent strengths.  Clan Star Adder’s Gamma Galaxy made short work of Lambda Spina, capturing three quarters of the world’s industry and allowing only 75,000 Shark civilians to escape, whilst capturing another 3.6 million.  To make matters worse for the Diamond Sharks, Lambda Spina was reduced to well below half strength and the 15th Cruiser Cluster was destroyed.

Vinton
Vinton saw one of the few instances of Zellbrigen during the entire war, with the 71st Mandrill Guards and 7th Striker of Delta Galaxy fighting the Shark Zeta Galaxy’s 83rd Combined Strike Cluster in true Clan fashion.  This delayed the Mandrill advance and allowed over 1 million of the enclave’s population of 6 million to escape.

Summary
The campaign to drive out Clan Diamond Shark was the single largest of all those fought and involved over forty WarShips and seventy five Clusters of troops.  Clan Diamond Shark lost two Clusters and thirteen WarShips entirely, with the remaining ground forces at approximately 75% strength.  The size of their Touman, especially their large Cluster size, the nature of the Star Adder bid and Mandrill battlefield shortcomings greatly mitigated potential losses.  In the end, the Diamond Sharks escaped with half their military industry, three mobile orbital yards and slightly over 8 million of their civilians, just 8% of the total Shark population.  However, the Shark evacuation was a success, especially when so much was at stake for the Clan and when seen in the light of some of the disasters suffered by the other fleeing Clans.

Clan Star Adder paid a price in blood and treasure for its desire to play the part of the noble leader of the Clans, losing seven WarShips, though it captured two Diamond Shark vessels in return.    Combat losses in the Touman amounted to 21% for the clusters involved, which meant the Clan lost about 10% of its forces overall.  Nevertheless, the Adder gains would enable them to increase their military output by over a third, more than double their orbital and naval construction assets and increase their population by nearly half.

Clan Fire Mandrill lost three WarShips and captured one, with losses to the Touman coming in at 9%, though for units involved the rate was closer to 17%.  The industrial gains increased Mandrill production by 25% and added half again to the Clan’s population, which considering the liberal mind of many Diamond Sharks, would lead to changes in the Mandrills in years to come.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Dragon Cat on November 09, 2015, 04:52:35 AM

Numpty Clans spiting themselves when they are doing so well in the Inner Sphere.

Curious about the Nova Cats (guessing you're shocked there)  ;) they should be able to prevail against the Blood Spirits but with their decent sized OZ and fighting against the Jaguars maybe they are stretched too far.  Should be interesting different way to screw over the clans I guess.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on November 09, 2015, 05:04:54 AM

The Spirits are stronger than most give them credit for.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on November 10, 2015, 02:32:21 AM

-14-
1st of May, 3063
Marik, Free Worlds League

Thomas Marik was not a man easily shocked, he took pride in his ability to take things in stride, but what Admiral Heather Alexander had just suggested took him back, and back a long way.  “I’m sorry Admiral, but I may have just experienced a stroke and missed what you said.  Could you repeat yourself?”

Admiral Alexander laughed, it was not always that a liege lord took being blindsided so well.  “My apologies Captain-General, I should have laid a little more ground work.”

Marik raised his right hand and held his thumb and index finger close together, “Yes, just a little.”  He chuckled and then resumed walking along the intricate Parterre that formed part of the Marik family Palace on the world that bore their name. 

The gardens, shrubs, fountains and paths extended into the middle distance and it appeared to the Admiral that The Marik was planning to aimlessly stroll them as they talked.

“Captain-General, as I said, I believe we need to halt operations in the Terran March, regroup and strike in an entirely new direction.”

Marik nodded, his hands now behind his back, across his purple robe, “In complete contravention of the plans we drew up not months ago and leaving our allies to pick up the pieces.”

The Admiral could not prevent a hint of bitterness creeping into her voice, “It is no different to what they have done.”

Marik cocked his head slightly, “Maybe, in some cases, though I assume that is your full assessment?”

Alexander nodded her head emphatically, “Yes it is.”  She paused, “The Taurians are stalled, apart from their attacks into the Pleiades.  They are pulling their right flank back and reinforcing it, whilst digging in elsewhere.  I honestly think they are surprised both by their initial success and by the vigour of the AFFC response, despite its limited strength.  They have all their chips on the table and to my eyes; they are suddenly getting cold feet.  There will be little pressure on Davion from that front.”

Marik took a turn to the left, wrong footing the Admiral who had to pivot quickly to maintain her place at his right side.  “You might have the measure of the Taurians, but the Capellans have built some momentum and much of this war is down to Candace Liao and her drive.”

The Admiral sighed, I hate bringing bad news to the higher ups, it never ends well.  “Captain-General, it appears that the CCAF has had its fill of direct assaults.  SAFE has intercepted a message from Sian that has directed commanders in all theatres to hold pending developments.  CCAF units near Liao have been directed to “…take advantage of escalating fighting between the AFFC and FWLM on any world formerly controlled by the Capellan Confederation.”

“That cunning bitch.” Marik said with a smile.  “I suppose moving to a defensive posture was a possibility, given Liao’s total force strength, but she has several good months of fighting in her troops yet.”

“Yes she does Sir, and she plans to use it against targets of opportunity, including those presented by the Free Worlds League.”

“The lesson here Admiral,” Thomas said as he took another turn onto a rose lined path, “Is that one just can’t trust the good word of a Capellan Lady.”

The Admiral suppressed a smile, “No Sir, one cannot.”

“Based on the information you passed on yesterday, it would seem that Lord Theodore has done his bit on four worlds, taken the money and in a most un-samurai way, cut and run.”

The Admiral looked to Thomas as she grabbed at a flower absent-mindedly in passing, “It would my Lord and Duke Christopher is said to be sending his younger son on a rather extended tour of the nastier parts of the Oriente system for getting the League to part with that coin as well.”

“The boy will learn, but so will we.”  Marik paused, stopped, dropped his head and then started walking again, “We can still close the corridor though?”

Alexander shrugged, “Possibly.”

“Possibly, that’s the best you have for me?”

“Yes, hence my alternate plan.  Why bet the farm on a maybe when we can see massive success on another front?  With a cosmetic Kuritan advance about to get pummelled by little Prince Victor, the Capellans as much a threat as the Federated Commonwealth in the corridor – and also leaving us to do the fighting – and the freeing up of resources from other fronts, we would face the Federated Commonwealth’s full wrath for a tiny number of worlds.  I understand where the desire to close the corridor comes from, but without the support of our “allies,” it becomes a fool’s errand.”

Marik raised one hand, “Victor won’t free up all that much additional force from the Capellan and Periphery Marchs.”

“No Captain-General, he won’t,” agreed the Admiral, “But he has just captured or destroyed the entirety of the Hell’s Horses Gamma Galaxy, more than held his own against the Ice Hellions and has the Steel Vipers bogged down on Bone-Norman in the type of large scale campaign they have always failed at.”

Marik stopped, turned and looked at the Admiral with his jaw open, “An entire Clan Galaxy?”
Heather shook her head with a wry smile, “Yes Sir, he knows how to fight the Clans and has trained his generals well.  On Canal, General Kopper was able to convince the two attacking Clusters to bid their entire strength as Isorla, but forgot to mention that on top of the 5th Lyran Guards RCT and 4th Lyran Regulars, the “militia” also contained the Coventry CMM.  By the time the trap closed, it was too late and the Horses were granted an honourable surrender.  Meanwhile on Howick, the 45th Mechanised Strike Cluster was wiped out when it botched it landings, ended up scattered all over the Ellsworth Badlands and was defeated in detail.  The 666th Mechanised Assault could not take the world at that point and left.  The Horses have been forced to pull back from some of their gains to cover the loss of Gamma.”

Marik smirked and resumed strolling, “Wonders will never cease.  That boy Victor certainly has a way with the Clans.  But I see what you are suggesting.  With the Clans not so much advancing as bogging down, Victor can deploy reserves to keep the corridor open.  What he can do with two arms tied behind his back is quite astounding.”

“That is why I don’t want to face him across a narrow front in the corridor.  The Capellans, Taurians and the Clan advance as a whole were successful over broad fronts against the AFFC, we have been too narrow and allowed him to concentrate force in the critical theatre.”  Alexander had raised her arms as she spoke and now dropped them to her sides.  She looked hard at the Captain-General and did not look away.

Gesturing with an arm down a pathway covered with wisteria that was dripping with purple blossoms, the Captain-General allowed the Admiral to change course before he spoke again.  “What resources do you need for your little about face Heather?”

Admiral Alexander replied without hesitation “Six regiments to take and hold Oliver and Pollux, the dispatch of the Sirian Lancers to Nanking…”

She was interrupted by the Captain General, “Do you really think you can get them off Sirius?”
“They either re-join us or die.  Despite their alleged patriotism, they are pragmatists at heart.  Even if we don’t have them at Nanking we will still take the world, they just make it happen faster.  I will need thirty Mech Regiments and as many again conventional Brigades and Aerospace Regiments massed at Marik for the strikes on the Provincial Capitals.”  She lifted a portable holo-projector from her jacket and an image of the front jumped to life, show troops movements and targets.  I will also mass fifteen WarShips at Marik.  That will all be for the strikes on two Provincial and several other command centres.  During all of this you have to convince the Capellan Chancellor to at least make the pretence of wanting to take more worlds from the Federated Commonwealth, the CCAF has to stay near the front whilst we mass our own troops, otherwise troop movements across the front will throw our plans into chaos.”

“Based on her earlier message,” Thomas responded, “Keeping Candace ready to push in the Tikonov region will not be hard.”

“I will also mass a second force here,” she pointed, “For the surgical second strike.  It will consist of twelve Mech Regiments and similar support brigade and aerospace numbers and twenty WarShips.”

Marik frowned, “I understand the logic of your first strike, but the second could lead to a bloodbath.  No one has ever taken that world and the defenders will not let us have it easily.  Troops from the whole region will arrive to defend it once we are there.”

“That’s why I would take half the Fleet.  Nothing would get through!  No one may have succeeded before, but no one has tried using this much force, all while the defence was looking somewhere else.”

Marik nodded, “And these smaller actions?”

Alexander stopped, forcing The Marik to as well, “They are all part of the same general plan – take and hold industry.  That is what we are not getting in the current campaign.  We are fighting for low yield worlds that sap our strength whilst giving nothing in return, bar Nanking.  These smaller strikes are aimed at snatching industrial worlds close to the border whilst the main strikes take out major command and control centres and the truly critical industrial prizes in the region.  We have grown strong by striking at weakness and avoiding costly and long engagements, allowing our industry to build us up to the point where we are no longer an easy mark.  We need a short and sharp war that gains us industrial muscle and this plan does just that.  We will increase our industrial capacity by over 50% and when the AFFC can finally turn to deal with us, like they tried with the Combine in 3039, they will find a cloud or WarShips and a wall of Regiments that will be impossible to break through.”

Thomas Marik was impressed, as nothing like it had ever been tried by the Free Worlds League, or any other power he could think of.   Disengage from the main front whilst fortifying it and allowing worlds lost to stay that way, whilst reconstituting the main striking arm and hitting a whole new region with crippling hammer blows.  We gamble much, but the prize, the prize is truly worth it.

“Admiral, how long until you could have plans ready and forces assembled?”

“Possibly three, probably four months, though some of the smaller actions could be initiated immediately.”

“Very well, bring me detailed plans by weeks end and send preparatory orders to units in the Corridor to fall back to the fortified positions as needed.  Leave me the projector, I want to look on your plans more.”

“Yes Captain-General.”  Heather passed over the projector, bowed, and walked back the way she came.

Thomas Marik smiled at the projection, which showed a series of small strikes along the Federated Commonwealth’s border that could start immediately.  He then watched as two huge fingers of projected targets grew towards and then encapsulated their primary targets.  As the two fingers reached out and encompassed Sarna, Capella and Sian, Marik smiled again. 

I’m coming for you Candace.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on November 10, 2015, 03:10:56 AM

Clan Ghost Bear and Clan Fire Mandrill

The Campaign against Clan Ghost Bear was the smallest of all those fought during the Homeworld’s War.  With only two undermanned targets to strike, the Fire Mandrills dispatched only a single Galaxy, Gamma, and its four Clusters.  However, well-practiced in moving large numbers of civilians the Bears were well aware of what they could and could not do.  Though they would leave many behind, the Bears moved more civilians than was thought possible by observers.

Arcadia
The Bear’s single Cluster on Arcadia was the 4th Regulars and they had managed a difficult task well, loading up just short of 1 million civilians in four weeks.  When the Fire Mandrill’s 4th Assault and 3rd Battle landed on world, the Regulars proceeded to fight little more than delaying skirmishes as they collapsed their lines and lifted off, leaving the Mandrills as the masters of the remaining 11.5 million civilians.

Strana Mechty
Despite an excellent and well organised evacuation, the 1st Bear Guards had no plans to depart Strana Mechty without bloodying those who came to dispossess them of their ancestral holding.  The 1st fought for three days and two nights before losses became unsustainable and threatened the final evacuations plans and the Mandrill 342nd Battle and 1st Striker were made to pay a high price for their gains.  The 1st finally rolled onto its transports and departed with the last of the Bear civilians into the chaos of the Clan capital world’s space lanes.  The Bears managed to evacuate nearly 1.5 million lower castemen but were forced to leave over 16 million behind.

Summary
The limited campaign against the Ghost Bears gained the Fire Mandrills another 27.5 million civilians, which added to their other spoils, nearly doubled the size of the Clan.  The combination of family oriented Bears, liberal Sharks and fierce Mandrills would produce a dynamic Clan in future years, one free of many of the ills of the earlier Fire Mandrill Clan.
For Clan Ghost Bear, the losses were minimal compared to those of other Clans, though they were less than impressed with the new ilKhan and his actions.  However, with all their major facilities already in the Inner Sphere, the loss was less jarring for the Bears than for other Clans.  2.5 million Ghost Bears escaped the Homeworlds, along with both Clusters, though they had suffered heavy losses leaving Clan space.

Clan Hell’s Horses and Clan Cloud Cobra

Clan Hell’s Horses took an extremely practical approach to its evacuation.  With no industry but plenty of Inner Sphere civilians in its small occupation zone, the Clan focused on removing industrial and scientific infrastructure and those needed to run such facilities, along with caste leaders and those required to rebuild the caste system in the Inner Sphere.

For Clan Cloud Cobra, the assault on the Hell’s Horses would be a limited challenge for the naval arm of the Touman, but a severe strain for the ground component.  The limited size of the Cloud Cobra Touman meant that certain targets were ignored and key worlds focused upon in order to prevent the Hell’s Horses escaping with too much material.  This left the worlds of Hoard and Strata Dominigo unmolested and limited forces used against some other targets like Paxon.

Additionally, demonstrating their eminent practicality, the Cloud Cobra’s broke bid before even lifting off, taking their entire Touman to battle.  Though derided by some, especially the Coyotes, for their dishonourable actions, others saw the sense in the move, especially considering the bidding practices of the Clans that had tried to force the Cobras to suffer during what was to be a war to unify the Homeworld Clans.

Eden
Clan Cloud Cobra dispatched Beta Galaxy to drive the Hell’s Horses from Eden.  Considering the Horses, Dezgra, Beta brought the CCC Consequence (Lola III) into close orbit in an effort to prevent any escape.  The three Beta Clusters then landed and proceeded to push hard against the Horse’s Eta Galaxy, which they rapidly drove back to its transports and forced to retreat.  Calling the Cobra’s bluff, all of Eta’s DropShips ran straight at the Consequence, forcing the ship to pull away due to heavy damage, though Eta and the last civilian transports to depart suffered heavy losses as well.  By the time Eta had lifted offworld, 575,000 civilians and half of the enclaves vital facilities had been loaded and seen safely away, though nearly 13 million remained behind.

Kirin
Kirin was well defended by the Hell’s Horses Epsilon Galaxy, with Clan Cloud Cobra dispatching Delta Galaxy to take the enclave.  The four WarShips of Delta’s escort were, like Eden, put into close orbit, as Star Admiral Tor Kardaan wished no Horse unit or civilian to escape.  The ground battle, though not one sided was a success for Delta and the remains of the Horse’s Epsilon Galaxy and its charges where met in orbit and destroyed or captured.  By the end of the fourth day of fighting, Epsilon was wiped out and all Horse assets on Kirin were seized by the Cobras, including the OmniMech facilities and nearly 6 million civilians.

Niles
The Hell’s Horses capital world was defended by their few WarShips and their best Clusters, namely their Keshiks and the entire Alpha Galaxy.  In order to break the defences of Niles and gain access to is strong industry and large population, Clan Cloud Cobra dispatched their own Alpha Galaxy, the Pharaoh Keshik and Epsilon Galaxy.  Escorting this force were Alpha Galaxy’s escort ships and all of Alpha Naval Reserve.

The WarShip engagement in close orbit over the planet was straight forward and brutal, with both sides moving to close range and engaging with all they had.  CHH Sleipnir (Cameron) came in for special attention from the Cobras and was left as a burning hulk, which fell into the atmosphere.  CHH Bucephalus, CHH Equinus and CHH Destrier (all Lola III), through giving better than they got all fell, with the former captured and two latter destroyed.  The CCC Blind Faith (Carrack) was the only loss to the Cobra’s, though several ships suffered heavy damage.

In the midst of the WarShip engagement the Horses lifted off en masse, with running Aerospace fighter battles costly to both sides and with their WarShips busy, the Cobras were unable to inflict much damage upon the fleeing Horses.  The Hell’s Horses decision to rapidly escape, with what they had and not try to salvage more, whilst minimising losses for those departing, left much behind of value for Clan Cloud Cobra.  Only a quarter of the enclaves military facilities and none of its orbital facilities were rescued and with the focus on military forces and industry, only 65,000 of the most important civilians were taken off from a population well over 50 million.  The prize taken by the Cloud Cobras was huge and Niles would be the world that rebuilt the Cobra ground arm into a true fighting force in years to come.

Strana Mechty
Strana Mechty proved to be a bloody conflict for both Clans, with the Cloud Cobra’s Zeta Galaxy landing to face the Hell’s Horses Delta Galaxy.  Strana Mechty was also one of the few worlds where large numbers of civilians were evacuated.  As such, Delta put up fierce resistance in order to allow as many lower caste members as possible to escape.  The cost was high though, with the 65th Mechanised Strike destroyed when left as the rear guard and the 44th Mechanized Assault and 71st Mechanized Cavalry badly damaged.  However, the 82nd Mechanised Cavalry was able to catch and break the 57th Cobra Guards, when that unit tried to flank the Horse line.  Delta’s efforts rescued over half a million of the enclaves 10 million civilians, a feat of great importance for the future of the Clan.

Tiber
Tiber was another bloody engagement, but this time more so for the Cloud Cobras.  The Cobras dispatched the Temple Keshik and Gamma Galaxy to face Clan Hell’s Horses Zeta Galaxy and from the moment the drop began to scatter, things continued to go wrong for the Clan.  The 59th and 441st Guards were both caught alone by most of the Horse defenders and crushed before the Horses lifted off.  However Cobra Aerospace fighters took a horrible toll on the lifting transports, destroying the 27th BattleMech Cluster.  Nevertheless, 200,000 of the enclave’s 1 million strong population were taken off.

Hoard and Strata Dominigo
With no Cloud Cobra forces assaulting either world, the Horses removed 350,000 of the combined population of 950,000, leaving the remainder to the Cobra forces that arrived at the beginning of May to find the Horses gone.

Summary
The campaign was a bloody one for both Clans, with nether truly suited to fighting the other, due to imbalances in both Toumans.  In all, forty four clusters engaged along with sixteen WarShips, with the Cobras keeping a reserve of ships out of the fighting.

Clan Hell’s Horses lost two Clusters and four WarShips outright and overall losses to the ground arm of the Clan ran to 30% of all troops in the Homeworlds.  The small size of the Horse merchant fleet and lack of naval transports meant that little was rescued, with just 1.7 million civilians out of a population of 85 million rescued and slightly over a quarter of their military facilities removed.  Most devastating for the Horses was that no orbital yards were relocated.

Clan Cloud Cobra lost three Clusters and one WarShip, though one was captured from Clan Hell’s Horses.  Overall losses ran to nearly 25% of the Touman, which was acceptable only in the light of what the fighting gained.  Cloud Cobra military production would nearly double from their isorla, with yard space increased by two thirds and a population increase of nearly 80%.  Most importantly for the Cloud Cobras was that most of the industry captured was focused on Mech production, finally allowing the Touman to develop the ability to fight other Clans on an equal footing.

WORDS OF WAR

TELINOV: My Khan, we have no option.  We break bid or we face defeat and predation at the hands of our so called allies.

RIAZ: I must agree with the saKhan, Khan Steiner.  We have little choice here.  In order to follow The Way we must sacrifice our own honour for the greater good, both of our Clan and the Clans as a whole.  Without our hand to guide them following this war, they will fall.

STEINER: You may be right.  The Horses are Dezgra and deserve no honourable treatment.  Even with our full strength, we have not the numbers to strike them everywhere.  We must be strong where they are and leave lesser targets to their own devices.

TELINOV: I agree, but I would suggest we use our fleet aggressively, both against their WarShips and in interdicting their escape.  With our small numbers, we need to use every tool we have to prevent the Horses taking too much with them.

STEINER: Very well saKhan Telinov.  I want both of you to have an operational plan ready by the end of the week – we need our troops moving soon, if we are to lock the gate before the Horse has bolted.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Dragon Cat on November 10, 2015, 05:10:55 AM

It would be interesting to see if the Invading Clans returned home what would they do...

I think it would be a brutal battle

I may have missed it but was any Genetic Repository Data captured from any invading Clan?

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on November 10, 2015, 05:13:13 AM

Nope, 1st thing on the ships.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on November 11, 2015, 02:35:23 AM

Clan Ice Hellion and Clan Goliath Scorpion

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Clan Goliath Scorpion had long been a foe of the Ice Hellions, making that Clan one of the few targets that the Scorpions would willingly engage in the War.  The Goliath Scorpions despised the Hellions attitude, outlook and Crusader viewpoint, and would wage one of the most calculated campaigns of the war.  With only twenty Clusters in their bid, the Scorpions assigned their forces with care and precision, but their choice of WarShips would be the ace of their hand. With a large fleet, the Scorpions were able to choose large combatants and utilise their power to the fullest.

Clan Ice Hellion followed a program similar to that of Clan Hell’s Horses in seeking to focus on relocating industry first.  With civilian leaders already in the Chainlaine Isles and a large population there, the lower castes in the Homeworlds remained a secondary priority, unless directly related to the scientific or military industrial programs.  However, the Hellions were disorganised in their attempts to depart and suffered for this lack of central control when the Goliath Scorpions struck.

Atreus
Clan Goliath Scorpion dispatched the 3rd Scorpion Cuirassiers and 16th Scorpion Dragoons of Gamma Galaxy to deal with the 4th and 5th Flurry Clusters of Omega on Atreus.  Though not well equipped, the Flurries were large formations, forcing the Goliath Scorpions to work hard to gain ground in the areas around the Hellion Drop Ports.  Though unable to prevent the two Clusters departure, the two Scorpion units limited the evacuation to 150,000 of the 1 million Ice Hellion civilians on world.

Babylon
One of the two primary targets for the Goliath Scorpions, the Ice Hellions maintained large industrial facilities on Babylon and kept the world well defended.  Clan Ice Hellion had also positioned one of its two WarShip groups over Babylon and these six ships would need to be dealt with before the Scorpions could land forces.

Elements of the Fire Wheel and Wild Hunt Battle Groups were sent to break the Hellion squadron and the battle rapidly became one sided as the better organised and commanded Goliath Scorpion ships began to cut apart the Hellion squadron and destroy its vessels.  CIH Impaler and CIH Lightniing (both Lola III), CIH Snowstorm (Volga) and CIH Whelp (Fredesa) all fell to the Scorpion fleet, with the CIH Chaos Sailor (Aegis) captured.  Only CIH Voracious (Congress), managed to escape the heavy defeat, which was one of the most decisive of the war.  For the Goliath Scorpions, only the CGS Corona Austrina (Aegis) and the CGS Serket (Sovetskii Soyuz) suffered any appreciable damage.

With the space lanes cleared of all but one Ice Hellion vessel, Beta Galaxy’s 1st Cateran Cluster and 23rd Scorpion Cuirassiers made rapid planet fall, moving quickly and overrunning the Hellions 2nd Assault Cavaliers of Delta Galaxy.  At the end of two days fighting, the defence of Babylon had been roundly smashed and the Hellions took very little from the world, with only 40,000 civilians and no appreciable materials getting away.  16.5 million Ice Hellions also remained behind.

Forster
The 6th Scorpion Hussars (Beta) landed on Forster with little fanfare and only skirmished with the 150th Hellion Lancers (Zeta), before the latter retreated to its transports and lifted off world.  140,000 civilians escaped as well, leaving well over 3 million behind.

Hector
The Ice Hellion Capital of Hector was the other main target of the Goliath Scorpions and was well defended by the Ice Hellions main Homeworlds WarShip squadron and elements of Delta and Zeta Galaxies.  The prize of the campaign, Hector was home to 90% of the Ice Hellion military industrial base and Clan Goliath Scorpion did not intend to let such a prize slip away.

The Scorpion naval forces consisted of elements of the Einheriar Battle Group and the new Reserve Battle Group, a force of one Battleship, three Cruisers and three Destroyers.  Defending against that Scorpion fleet were a Battleship, Cruiser, three Destroyers, a Transport and a Corvette.  The two McKenna-class vessels CGS Lei Kung and CIH Cage's Pride dominated the battle, with the latter eventually captured by marines from the Scorpion Battleship.  Once the Cage’s Pride was taken, the Hellion fleet fell apart, with the CIH Maker (Carrack), CIH Hellion's Pride (Fredesa), CIH Cold Hunter, CIH Radiant (both Lola III) and CIH Pack Leader (York) all destroyed, with only the CIH Taney (Aegis) escaping the disaster.  However, unlike the Babylon engagement, the Ice Hellions managed to heavily damage the Scorpion fleet.  Though only the CGS Bernlad (Congress) was lost, three other vessels were forced out of the fight and the remaining three were heavily damaged.

With the fleet having opened a path to the surface, the Goliath Scorpions landed Alpha and elements of Mu Galaxy to face the Ice Hellion defenders.  The Ice Hellions were overmatched from the start and neither Galaxy Commander was willing to surrender command to the other, allowing the Scorpions to divide and conquer the defenders.  This resulted in the destruction of the 33rd Striker Irregulars and the savaging of the remaining Hellion clusters, which fled the world in disorder.  The debacle of the defence meant that the Hellions only salvaged one fifth of the world’s vital industries and less than 35,000 of the more than 46 million civilians.

Hoard
Rho Galaxy’s 5th Scorpion Cuirassiers and 10th Scorpion Dragoons landed on Hoard to deal with the Ice Hellion’s 180th Attack and 43rd Hector Cavaliers of Theta Galaxy.  The Ice Hellions on Hoard showed what a well-conceived defence and exit plan could achieve, getting nearly 10% of the world’s 1.6 million Ice Hellion civilians off safely before ceding the field in good order to the Goliath Scorpions.

Londerholm
The 8th Scorpion Uhlans (Gamma) made short work of the 7th Hector Cavaliers on Londerholm, where only 140,000 of the enclave’s 2 million civilians escaped.

Marshall
Marshall was another instance of the Ice Hellions putting up a strong defence, with Theta and Omega Galaxies 44th Cavaliers and 1st Flurry working well together and preventing the 4th Scorpion Cuirassiers and 2nd Scorpion Hussars of Tau Galaxy from seriously disrupting the evacuation.  Though only a tenth of the population escaped, no civilians were lost.

New Kent
The 17th and 20th Scorpion Cuirassiers of Delta Galaxy faced the 2nd and 3rd flurry Clusters of the Hellion’s Omega Galaxy on New Kent.  With the Diamond Sharks and Steel Vipers dodging Snow Raven and Star Adder vessels and squadrons, the two Hellions clusters gathered their charges and made a run for their JumpShips.  The two Scorpion Clusters were able to shoot down numerous Hellion fighters, who were more concerned with protecting the transports than themselves; however, the evacuation was largely successful, with more than 100,000 escaping.

Strana Mechty
Beta Galaxy’s 22nd Scorpion Uhlans made short work of the Ice Hellion’s 45th Striker Irregulars of Delta Galaxy.  The Hellion holdings on the Clans capital world were cut off and none of the nearly 10 million civilians escaped.

Tathis
The 8th Scorpion Grenadiers of Rho Galaxy lacked the numbers to force a decisive engagement with 6th Flurry of Omega Prime Galaxy, who were able to get nearly 150,000 civilians off the world before being forced to depart themselves as the 8th increased the pressure steadily.

Summary
The well planned Goliath Scorpion assault impressed many who remained in the Homeworlds, especially the Star Adders, who took real notice of the Goliath Scorpions from then on.  The level of careful planning done quickly and overall success of the campaign, especially in the larger engagements was notable.  However, for the Ice Hellions their evacuation was a disaster and would cripple the Clan for many years to come.

Clan Ice Hellion lost three Clusters and 11 WarShips outright, with losses in the Homeworld’s Touman running to 34% of total force strength.  Although the Clan endeavoured to focus on industry during the evacuation, the Ice Hellions only managed to remove less than a fifth of what they possessed and left behind all their orbital infrastructure.  Additionally, the Ice Hellions managed to evacuate barely more than 1 million civilians, though they already had 10.5 million within the Chainlaine Isles, both former and new Clansmen.

Clan Goliath Scorpion lost one WarShip, but captured two and overall suffered losses of just 15%, 13% if counting the unengaged Clusters.  More importantly, the assets captured from the Ice Hellions would more than double their military output, increase their orbital facilities by a half and double the Clan’s population.  This was the boost the Clan had long sought and turned the Scorpions from a third rate Clan into a respected peer of those who remained behind. 

Clan Nova Cat and Clan Blood Spirit

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Clan Blood Spirit had long husbanded its resources, leaving it with the third largest ground force of the eight Core Clans.  However, in bidding for the right to assault the Nova Cats with twenty four Clusters, Clan Blood Spirit had to contend with the Nova Cats strong fleet.  The Cat’s had fifteen WarShips in the Homeworlds, though seven were Carracks and another two were only partly operational, having undergone accelerated launch procedures.  The task for the Blood Spirit’s fleet of eight WarShips was to break the Cat fleet.  In order to assist the fleet, the Spirit’s assigned four Aerospace Clusters to the fighting, purely as WarShip support, with twenty ground Clusters leaving the Blood Spirits with limited numerical superiority.

Clan Nova Cat was, like Clan Diamond Shark, blessed with a strong merchant marine, though much was already in the Inner Sphere, enough remained to allow for large scale evacuations of both civilians and industry.  For the Nova Cats though, the battles would be brutal, with the Blood Spirits taking no prisoners and offering no quarter.

However, in many instances the Nova Cat second line forces would roughly handle the apparently better Blood Spirit troops and withdraw in good order, putting lessons learned in the Inner Sphere to good use against a foe who found thinking outside of the box difficult at the best of times.  This first large campaign for Clan Blood Spirit would teach it many lessons and act as the catalyst for changes in the way the Clan would fight in future.

Barcella
The battle of Barcella was both a success and a disappointment for both Clan Blood Spirit and Clan Nova Cat.  For Clan Blood Spirit, they broke the Nova Cat fleet and gained a prize like none other in their history, though the Nova Cats managed to take much with them.  Despite their success in space, the Spirits could not entirely close off the world, even with the Star Adders in system dealing with the Diamond Sharks.

The Blood Spirits sent the bulk of their fleet to Barcella, five WarShips, backed by two Aerospace Clusters, the third failing to make the jump due to a drive malfunction.  Defending the space over the Nova Cat enclave were eleven WarShips.  However, the Nova Cat fleet was not all it seemed, as four vessels were Carracks, two were Corvettes and two were emergency launched and not at full complement or function.

The Blood Spirit WarShips focused on the Nova Cat heavy vessels, whilst the Aerospace Clusters attacked the Carracks and Corvettes.  Though the Nova Cats fought valiantly, the weight of firepower and lack of armour on many of their vessels quickly began to tell.  CNC Enlightened Path, CNC Blessed Vision, CNC Bright Star, CNC Transiter (all Carrack), CNC Lucian Carns (Black Lion) and CNC Endevour (Essex) were all lost, with the CNC Firecat (Fredesa), CNC Splendid Vision (Splendid) and CNC Nova (Vincent) all striking and boarded by the Blood Spirits.  Blood Spirit losses were limited to only the CBS Stooping Kite (York), though the CBS Carmine Justice (Sovetskii Soyuz) and CBS Rocinante (Black Lion) suffered heavy damage.

Following on from their victory in space, the Blood Spirits landed rapidly, deploying the Blood Guard Keshik and 7th and 13th Blood Drinkers of Alpha Galaxy against the 25th and 57th Regulars of the Nova Cat’s Rho Galaxy.  The 57th sold itself to the last man in order to allow the 25th to successfully escort the last transports of Barcella, which included masses of heavy industrial equipment, something the Blood Spirits were loath to see escape.  In addition to the industrial equipment, the Nova Cats managed to save nearly 600,000 of the enclave’s 31 million civilians.

Bearclaw
Alpha Galaxy’s 37th Red Assault and Red Guards Clusters were unable to take Bearclaw on their own terms as the 37th Nova Cat Garrison Cluster of Rho Galaxy refused to be tied down, leading the Blood Spirits on a merry chase as the transports with the civilians made their escape.  The Nova Cats then joined their own ships and departed, having successfully gotten over 100,000 people off the world, along with sixty precent of its industry.

Brim
Despite numerical superiority, the Crimson Guards and 87th Crimson Guards of the Blood Spirit’s Omega Galaxy were unable to dislodge the 38th Garrison Cluster of Rho Galaxy from its positions until it was ready to depart, guiding 111,000 plus from the Homeworlds, though they only managed to load a quarter of the worlds important infrastructure.

Circe
Circe, defended by four WarShips and two Clusters, was the other primary target of the Blood Spirits.  With three of the defending WarShips Carracks, the Blood Spirit’s CBS Blood Fury (Lola III) and 2nd Aerospace Cluster were able to destroy the CNC Far Star, CNC Glory Road and CNC Guiding Vision (Carrack) and drive off the CNC Growler (Lola III), in a relatively easy engagement.

Following the space battle, Beta Galaxy’s 53rd Crimson Guards, 91st Crimson Vanguard and 115th Red Assault landed and moved against the 7th and 44th Nova Cat Garrison Clusters of Kappa Galaxy.  The defending Clusters dealt Beta a heavy blow in the initial engagement, allowing them time to withdraw in order before running the gauntlet of the Blood Spirits in orbit.  However, the CNC Growler returned and safely escorted the survivors out of the system.  The Nova Cats managed to depart Circe with two thirds of the enclave’s vital industry, three mobile orbital yards and 572,000 civilians, though they left behind the huge Spirit Cat Industrialplex Orbital Facility and 27 million civilians.

Delios
Delta Galaxy’s 72nd Crimson Cuirassiers, 66th Crimson Guards and 112th Scarlet Battle landed hard and fast on Delios and drove the 67th Nova Cat Garrison and 8th Nova Cat Regulars before them.  Only poor weather prevented Delta from shattering the Cats, who used the weather to escape with 120.000 civilians in tow.

Gatekeeper
The 71st and 271st Crimson Assault and 33rd Red Battle of the Blood Spirit’s Kappa Galaxy landed on Gatekeeper and faced the 68th Nova Cat Garrison and 10th Nova Cat Regulars.  As in many of the instances of fighting between the two Clans, the best of Clan Blood Spirit was stymied by the pragmatic and adaptable Nova Cat second line troops, who withdrew in good order with 270,000 civilians packed away beside them.

Hoard
Hoard, like Gatekeeper, was yet another instance of a quarter of a million Nova Cats escaping after their second line troops managed to hold the line against apparently better clusters from Clan Blood Spirit.  In this instance it was the 4th Garrison of Kappa Galaxy which held off the 79th Blood Hussars and 85th Crimson Guards of Pi Galaxy before escaping.

Strana Mechty
Knowing what was coming, the 44th Garrison Cluster of the Nova Cat’s Kappa Galaxy struck into the neighbouring Blood Spirit enclave on Strana Mechty.  The Cats kept the fighting there for two weeks, before pressure from the 165th and 268th Crimson Guards of the Blood Spirit’s Rho Galaxy was able to drive them back into their own territory.  By mounting such an effective campaign outside of their enclave, the Nova Cats were able to evacuate 1.25 million civilians from Strana Mechty, the single largest contingent from any of their worlds.

Summary
Clan Blood Spirit both won and lost the campaign against the Cats.  They won in the sense that much was gained, but lost in that they had missed the opportunity to take everything the Cats had.  The performance of their best Clusters and the lack of dedicated Aerospace support at the Cluster level hurt the Spirit’s ability to push for total victory.  Clan Nova Cat’s merchant caste assets and its ability to adapt allowed it to rescue enough materials to remain viable in the Inner Sphere, but only just, and it would be many years before the Clan was able to act aggressively again following the end of its war with the Draconis Combine.

Clan Nova Cat lost twelve WarShips and a single Cluster outright, with losses totalling 25% of troops in the Homeworlds.  The Nova Cats managed to transport out of their territory one third of their Homeworlds industry and three mobile orbital yards, along with 3,295,000 civilians.

Clan Blood Spirit lost a single WarShip, but captured three and suffered losses of 16% to it forces that saw combat, though only 8% of their total strength.  The Blood Spirit’s gains were immense by that Clan’s traditionally poor economy, with their industrial output more than doubling, the gaining of the Barcella Orbital Yards providing them with a huge capacity to build new DropShips and JumpShips, as well as the yard for construction of the new Splendid-class Cruisers.  Additionally, the Nova Cat civilians captured grew the Blood Spirit Clan by 110%, and providing access to resources across seven worlds, a boon the Clan had never dreamed of. 

It would be these gains and the Spirit’s strong showing in the war that would begin the process of mellowing the Clan and making it more open to those that remained with it, as it was their actions and support that allowed the Blood Spirits to match physically what they had always seen themselves as: A strong Clan.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Dragon Cat on November 12, 2015, 04:32:33 AM

Nice write up even if I do say so as a Nova Cat fan.

One thing I'd question and it's a general thing more so than just the Nova Cat update.

The Homeworld WarShip losses have been "light" BattleTech WarShip combat isn't light I would think that given each Clan is fielding significant capital assets the losses for the Core Clans would be heavier - they would get the pick of the salvage since the Invaders are retreating but they'd lose more I think.

Don't get me wrong it's still a fun read just a couple of rambling thoughts when I've been up hours and hours ;)

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on November 12, 2015, 06:33:16 AM

It's the model I am using, it seems harder to kill big ships themn in canon, but it also take a god awful time to repair them, so it is a little more real world in the feel for say about WWI.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Dragon Cat on November 12, 2015, 07:43:16 PM

Kinda makes sense in both senses admittedly my aero experience is limited but sometimes big ships die ridiculously fast of course anything that gets hit in the right spot is going to do that I guess

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Ice Hellion on November 13, 2015, 03:48:56 AM

Quote from: Dragon Cat on November 12, 2015, 07:43:16 PM

Kinda makes sense in both senses admittedly my aero experience is limited but sometimes big ships die ridiculously fast of course anything that gets hit in the right spot is going to do that I guess

I guess Blacknova didn't upgrade the ships with decent anti-Aero Fighters weapons, making them go down "easily".

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Dragon Cat on November 13, 2015, 06:12:45 AM

Not so much anti-fighter weaponry the Clans could just use the Anti-Aircraft Mode on their Naval Lasers or Barracudas it's more the lack of AMS, other point defences and additional armour that kills standard Star League and early Clan designs

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on November 25, 2015, 04:35:20 PM

Clan Smoke Jaguar and Clan Coyote

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Khan Brandon Howell continued to show why he was the single most dangerous aspect of the evolving Clan Smoke Jaguar during the war in the Homeworlds.  Seeing the absolute futility of trying to defend anything but the world of Huntress, he directed Galaxy Commander Russou Howell, the Huntress Commander, to declare that the Smoke Jaguars would defend every inch of every world of their territory in the Homeworlds, with every Warrior and every tool they possessed.  This was exactly the rhetoric that Clan Coyote expected of the Jaguars and planned accordingly, devoting strong forces to hit each Jaguar world where there were known garrisons. 
However, Khan Howell then directed that the Clusters of the Clan be concentrated on Huntress, by moving them on merchant ships.  By late March, the entire Homeworlds Touman of the Jaguars was concentrated on Huntress and the day before the assault, the last ships jumped into the system from their other enclaves, leaving those Jaguars not on Huntress to the Coyotes.

Clan Coyote expected a tough battle and sent two Clusters to each Smoke Jaguar enclave, with three sent to Huntress, where resistance was expected to be stronger.  With only eight Clusters of Smoke Jaguars in the Homeworlds, the overconfident Coyotes expected to destroy their old foe’s last holdings in Clan space with ease.

Meeting the Coyote’s arrival at each world was a pre-recorded declaration of malice and a challenge from the commander on world and then silence.  The same message repeated itself at Huntress and Coyotes continued to come in unawares.

Huntress
Clan Smoke Jaguar had been renovating the largest ships in its cache, which included the old Clan Mongoose cache.  Although none had fully completed their restorations, all were able to fight, including two McKenna-class Battleships.  The Coyotes had jumped four WarShips into the system and expecting to face only a Cruiser and two Corvettes they moved rapidly to engage, as they had two Battleships, a Battlecruiser and a Heavy Cruiser on hand and were confident of success. 

The Jaguars allowed the three Coyote Cluster’s transports to approach the surface unmolested, focusing on the Coyote WarShips and springing their surprise.  The two McKenna-class ships, an Aegis and a Samarkand moved from behind the world’s orbital yards as the Coyote’s closed and opened fire, closing the trap on the Coyote fleet.  Caught flat footed, the Coyote’s fought to the death, with both the CC Great Coyote Spirit (Nightlord) and CC Ancestral Home (Texas) being beaten into little more than salvage.  The Jaguars were not finished there, with large elemental boarding parties swarming through the CC Blood of the Coyote (Cameron) and CC Spirit in the Sky (Liberator), capturing both vessels.  The Jaguars had not escaped unscathed, with the CSJ Ripper (Vincent) vaporised and its sister CSJ Azov in dire need of repair.  Additionally, the CSJ Dark Shadow, one of the two McKenna’s, was little more than a floating wreck, but it could jump and still carry DropShips, making it worth an attempt to save.

Matters went little better for the Coyotes on the surface of Huntress, where they met two frontline, two Second Line and four Solahma Clusters.  They heart was cut out of the Coyote’s Alpha Galaxy that day on Huntress.  The Golden Keshik, 38th Coyote Assault and 72nd Coyote Battle were wiped out by the massed ranks of the savage and uncompromising Jaguars, who had abandoned zellbrigen, seeing the Homeworld Clans as worse than dezgra.  Both of the Coyote Khans fell in combat, and every single Coyote captured was executed on the field.

Eleven days later, as Coyote reinforcements were burning in system, the huge Smoke Jaguar convoy jumped out of Clan space carrying all of Huntress’s vital industries, four mobile orbital bays and 4,375,000 civilians.  Though nearly 60 million remained behind, along with the 80% of the Jaguar’s orbital facilities, Huntress and the campaign against the Jaguars was a humiliating defeat for Clan Coyote.

Summary
The loss of a single Corvette and some Solahma Warriors was a small price to pay for the evacuation of the heart of the Jaguar’s strength, especially when two additional cruisers added to the tally taken.  The Jaguar Warriors who doubted Khan Brandon Howell before his invasion of the Combine now had little opposition to him, as his strategies had saved the Clan and severed it from the Homeworlds in ways that the other fleeing Clans could only marvel at.

For Clan Coyote, though they gained the Huntress Orbital Yards, an asset that produced nearly three times what the Coyotes yards at Tamaron could and captured the OmniMech facilities at Kirin intact, the loss of the Huntress industry with the departure of the Jaguars meant that Coyote industry increased by only 10%, leaving them as the weakest of the Homeworld Clans in that field for many years.  However, the Smoke Jaguar population, which was 30% larger than the Coyote population would thrive under its new masters and would be the basis for the Coyote’s future prosperity.

 

Clan Steel Viper and Clan Snow Raven

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With the Absorption of Clan Jade Falcon, Clan Snow Raven may have feared their new Wolf naval foes, but they reserved their hate for Clan Steel Viper.  To make matters worse for Clan Steel Viper, Clan Snow Raven was facing them due to a bidding error and had bid a force that was effectively a Galaxy for every Steel Viper Cluster.  With such an advantage, there was little the Vipers would be able to do, especially with Delta Galaxy having left the Homeworlds.

Though honour called for a reduction in their bid, Clan Snow Raven could not afford honour.  Their attempt to rebuild their naval advantage and keep ahead of the combined Jade Falcon/Wolf fleet had nearly crippled the Clan’s economy, meaning that the Snow Ravens desperately needed a quick and decisive victory.

In the case of every Viper world, four Raven Clusters landed and swarmed over the defenders, striking them from the ground and from the air.  Only the 10th Fang on Arcadia made any sort of lasting stand, but even they lasted less than three days.

The main battle of the war for both Clans and the only hope the Vipers had of making any sort of escape was over New Kent, however, the Snow Ravens dispatched three entire naval stars to engage the eight Viper WarShips and ended any Viper hopes when they emerged at a pirate point close to the planet. 

Every Viper WarShip in orbit was destroyed, though they did not go quietly, destroying the CSR White Cloud (Carrack) and CSR Nestling (Sovetskii Soyuz).  However, the dying gasp of the Steel Vipers in the Homeworlds counted for nothing.

Over every other Steel Viper world, a Snow Raven Naval Star went into close geosynchronous orbit and shot down any vessel attempting to escape the Viper enclaves.

After a week of brutal Snow Raven revenge for years of real and imagined slights, no Steel Viper troops lived in the Homeworlds and only a bare handful of vessels managed to escape the Raven fleet.

Clan Snow Raven gained industries that would increase its production by two thirds and add millions of civilians to its population.  Most importantly, the resources gained would see the Raven economy recover from its woes within a year and make the Ravens second only to the Star Adders in overall strength within the Homeworlds.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on November 26, 2015, 04:32:21 AM

Clan Wolf and Clan Burrock

Clan Burrock had bid hard to gain the honour of facing the power of Clan Wolf.  Although the Wolves had much of their strength in the Inner Sphere, they still possessed fifteen strong Clusters in the Homeworlds, backed by twelve WarShips, though some of these launched under emergency circumstances.

Working in favour of the Burrocks were the extents of Wolf territory, which limited the force required to take any one world and the pragmatic attitude of the Wolves and their Homeworld’s commander, Katya Kerensky.  The Wolves knew they would only escape with so much and planned accordingly, not planning to fight a protracted campaign.  However, despite their pragmatism, they would to fight on every world.

The final asset in the Wolf’s favour was Khan Kell’s large convoys, which had brought forward the Falcon industry the previous year.  Four of these convoys had arrived in November of 3062 and returned to the Inner Sphere on the 1st of April, taking much of the Wolves assets in the Eden system with them before the Burrocks even arrived.

These extra transports showed how the Wolves already advanced program for relocations to the Inner Sphere allowed for the rapid and mass evacuation of large segments of population and industry.  The four large convoys in the Pentagon freed up other transport assets to support evacuations in the Kerensky Cluster, greatly benefitting Wolf efforts.

Circe
The Burrocks dispatched their Stoneheart Keshik and Delta Galaxy’s 208th Cavalry Cluster to wrest control of Circe from the Wolf’s 7th Battle (Zeta) and 7th PGC (Lambda).  Fighting was relatively static for most of the campaign, where the Burrocks desire to break the Wolves was met by strong defensive preparations.  When the wolves pulled out, they took 1.4 million of the nearly 11 million who called Circe home. 

Dagda
The Burrocks were able to move quickly into the neighbouring Wolf enclave on Dagda with Alpha and Delta’s 85th Cavalry and 177th Light Cavalry.  Defending the enclave were the Zeta’s 74th Battle and Lambda’s 2nd Wolf Regulars.  The Burrocks took and kept the initiative, battering the two Wolf Clusters to less than 40% strength.  Despite this, the Wolves evacuated over 1.5 million of the more than 17 million lower castes. 

Eden
Eden was the main battle between the two Clans, with large naval and ground forces engaging.  Clan Burrock sent a fleet of eight ships to face the Wolves eight, with the Wolves more experienced crews negating the firepower advantage of the Burrocks.

The Burrock fleet consisted of the CB Absolute Truth (Nightlord), CB Ares' Might (Aegis), CB Exodus Avenger (York), CB Cameron's Flame and CB Yodan (Lola III), CB Renown (Potemkin) and the CB Cho Polu and CB Pompeii (Volga).  Facing them were the CW Eden (Black Lion), CW Dagda (Cameron), CW Circe (Liberator), CW Tamar (Luxor), CWS Nature's Wrath (Lola III), CWS Trailblazer and CWS Valiant (Vincent) and CWS Night Warrior (Carrack).  Though more powerful on paper, the four heaviest Wolf vessels were undergoing construction or reactivation, had untested crews and were not close to being combat ready.

The Naval battle rapidly degenerated into a swirling chaotic mess, which benefitted the Burrocks in allowing their troops to land, and the Wolves in allowing their final convoys to escape.  Boarding parties were the order of the day, as the Wolves sought more ships to evacuate with and the Burrocks seeking to deny the Wolves the ability to evacuate whilst enriching themselves in hulls.  The Wolves stormed the CB Ares' Might, CB Yodan, CB Cho Polu and CB Pompeii whilst the Burrocks swarmed under the CW Eden and CW Circe.  Other losses were the crippling of the CB Absolute Truth, the destruction of the CWS Valiant and CWS Night Warrior and the forced jumping away of the savaged CW Dagda.

With the battle for near space scattering further afield, the Clusters of Clan Burrock landed along the edges of the Wolf enclave, unwilling to test themselves by dropping into the Wolf’s maw.  Alpha’s 2nd Light Cavalry and Delta’s 4th Rapier made rapid progress once they entered Wolf territory, as the Wolves had pulled back into relatively tight entrenchments near the capital.  Once the Burrocks came to grips with the main Wolf lines on the 15th, they quickly shattered the cohesion of the 6th Wolf Regulars of Lambda Galaxy, forcing Zeta’s 3rd Wolf Guards to cover the holes in the 6th’s lines and accelerate Katya Kerensky’s plans for departure.  With the 3rd Guards covering the final retreat, the Burrocks were forced to regroup for a final strike, but missed the opportunity when the 3rd rapidly loaded up and departed.

The Wolves had used the large convoys and their final days to remove nearly 70% of Eden’s military industry, seven orbital facilities, including a shipyard, and more than 1 million civilians.  Though they missed much, Clan Burrock still took a vast prize of 68 million civilians, huge orbiting yards and the remaining ground facilities.

Glory
Alpha’s 1st Rapier and Delta’s 3th Sentry Clusters utilised pirate points to hit Glory hard.  Zeta’s Blue Keshik and Lambda’s 8th Grenadiers fought doggedly around the drop port for eight days, before lifting off with approximately half a million of the 4.3 million civilians of the enclave.

Grant’s Station
The 1st Sentry Cluster (Alpha) and the 9th Sentry of Delta struck Grant’s Station to find most of its departure fleet sitting ready for the taking near the world.  Quickly securing the transports, the Burrocks landed and over the course of six weeks hounded the 73rd Wolf Striker (Zeta) to destruction.  No Wolves escaped Grant’s Station.

Hoard
The 7th Sentry Cluster of the Burrock’s Alpha Galaxy sparred without much success against the 51st Garrison Cluster of Clans Wolf’s Iota Galaxy.  With few transports assigned, the 51st was only able to evacuate 139,000 civilian before quitting the world.

Paxon
The 2nd Wolf Lancers (Iota) turned the Paxon enclave into a den of traps and tricks that prevented Beta’s 100th Cavalry Cluster from ever finding its feet.  The 2nd Lancer’s counter attack on the 16th allowed them the space and time to board and depart the system with 700,000 of the enclave’s 4 million civilians.

Roche
Clan Goliath Scorpion, in honour of their long friendship with the Wolves, denied the Burrocks the right to land in their enclave before advancing.  This meant that the 86th Light Cavalry of Beta Galaxy had to fight its way in, scattering badly after the fighters of the 8th Wolf Regulars (Iota) scattered its transports.  With little real pressure coming from the slowly reforming Burrocks, the 8th was able to evacuate nearly 600,000 of the isolated outpost’s population.

Strana Mechty
The Wolves had absolutely no intention of leaving anything of value on Strana Mechty and opened the fight above the world in a most unconventional way.

The Clan vessel Prinz Eugen though monitored, was never closely observed, as its guards had never allowed a prisoner escape, engendering a sense of false security in their routines.  Three days before the deadline arrived, a Wolf Elemental Trinary from the 12th Wolf Regulars of Iota Galaxy, stormed the vessel in a lighting attack during a routine prisoner transfer, quickly securing the Texas-class vessel.  The following day, a full crew was brought on board and the prisoners were given the chance to act as Solahma crew or take a spacewalk.

Eighteen hours before the Homeworlds War began, the Prinz Eugen began a slow burn towards Strana Mechty, one that went undetected in all the surrounding movements.  Originally intended to cover the Wolf retreat, as taking it was far easier than getting forces aboard the McKenna’s Pride, the old Texas was re-purposed two hours out from Strana Mechty.

As Clan Burrock’s 2nd Rapier Cluster of Beta Galaxy began landing manoeuvres, it took long range fire from the Prinz Eugen before the Battleship suddenly turned hard towards the SLS McKenna’s Pride.  Word had reached Clan Wolf that ilKhan N’Buta was overseeing the war from the Clan’s flagship in a symbolic gesture.  This would become a nearly fatal hubristic action by the new and seemingly overconfident ilKhan, a rare slip by the otherwise masterful N’Buta.

The Prinz Eugen burned straight at the McKenna-class Battleship and an epic engagement between the powerful guns of the McKenna and the armoured hide of the Texas began.  The better maintenance and line crew on board the McKenna’s Pride provided the upper hand, but the Prinz Eugen maintained the velocity and position advantage throughout the fight.  Seeing that victory was slipping away, as the McKenna brought more and more of its broadside to bear, the Wolf crew rammed the SLS McKenna’s Pride, striking a vicious glancing blow to the Clan flagship's port quarter. 

The Prinz Eugen began to come apart following the collision, as her magazines began a series of sympathetic detonations scattering pieces of the giant vessel across the atmosphere where they largely burnt up.

On board the McKenna’s Pride, the engines had been knocked out by the Prinz Eugen’s strike and the vessel was raggedly cartwheeling and losing a fight with Strana Mechty’s gravity.  The Ebon Keshik used their familiarity with the ship, their suits strength and bloody mindedness to get the ilKhan from sections of the ship where centrifugal force was reaching five g’s to a life pod.  The Ebon Keshik then fired him to safety and endeavored to save the vessel.  Just minutes later, the flag vessel of the Clans began burning up in the atmosphere, it huge hulk creating a massive impact crater 12 kilometers northeast of Katyusha City.

Whilst the titanic clash of two of the Clans most well known vessels was happening in the skies above them, the 12th Wolf Regulars had driven the 2nd Rapier back as they scattered on landing.  The 12th then departed through clear space lanes with all of the enclaves vital military industries and 1.25 million civilians, leaving more the 22 million behind.

Tiber
Clan Burrock’s Beta Galaxy’s 2nd Sentry Cluster landed on Tiber to face the 18th Wolf Regulars of Iota Galaxy for control of the military industries there.  In a relatively even fight, the Burrock Cluster was able to drive forward and capture more than half of the facility’s operational lines, as well as all of the nearly 6 million civilians in the enclave, as the Wolf forces on Tiber had been purely focused on industrial extraction.

Tranquil
The second major engagement of the Burrock-Wolf fighting, Tranquil was targeted by the Burrock’s main carrier group of the CB Exodus Crusader, CB Exodus Ranger, CB Exodus Sentinel and CB Exodus Lancer, all York-class Destroyers.  The defending fleet consisted of the CWS Emerald Tornado (Whirlwind), CWS Relentless Pursuit and CWS Killing Blow (Vincent) and the CWS Full Moon (Potemkin).

The Burrocks overwhelmed the Wolf fleet, destroying the Killing Blow and driving off the Emerald Tornado and Full Moon, but not before the latter played possum in order to allow its marines to capture the Exodus Sentinel before the Wolves jumped both vessels away.

On the ground, the Burrock’s 8th Sentry Cluster of Beta Galaxy was roughly handled by the 1st Wolf Guardians, who had established masses of AAA around the main facilities to ensure that vital materials would get off world, as well as activating limited SDS capabilities.  This largely neutralized the air support that the three remaining carriers could provide.

Clan Wolf managed to get half of Tranquil’s industry and nearly 2 million of the 28 million inhabitants of the word away.

Summary
The Burrock-Wolf campaign was the most mutually bloody of all the campaigns fought during the Homeworlds War, as each Clan struck hard and used every tool it could against the other.
The already activated and extensive relocation system of Clan wolf proved itself, as Clan Wolf took more than two-thirds of its industry remaining in Clan Space with it, along with yards capable of producing and repairing WarShips, JumpShips and DropShips and over nine million civilians.  The cost was high though, with huge orbital facilities left behind and losses running to six WarShips, 1 entire Cluster and nearly 50% of all troops in the Homeworlds.  Offsetting the naval losses was the capture of five Burrock vessels.

Clan Burrock received a hard lesson on organisation and military competency, but gained enormously from both the lesson and the spoils it did secure.  Burrock industry would expand by nearly a third, transport production would nearly double, and its population would expand by 70%.  The cost for taking from the Wolf was high though, with units engaged suffering 39% losses, or 20% of the entire Touman.  Additionally, six WarShips were lost, though three were taken in boarding actions from the Wolves.

The Aftermath

By the beginning of May 3063, only eight Clans remained in the Homeworlds.  Nearly 9,000 Warriors were dead and another nine million civilian caste members had been lost  in the fighting as well.  Seventy WarShips were destroyed and the industry and trade of nearly every world in the Pentagon and Kerensky Clusters was in chaos.

Over the course of May, each Khan took stock of both losses and gains and each Clan examined the new order to determine where it stood relative to its peers.  None doubted the resolve and strength of the Star Adders as the leaders of the new order within Clan space; however, two primary rivals began to emerge.

Clan Snow Raven was the first, becoming ever more paranoid about its naval security and the need for vast resources to support its naval building efforts.  Any hint that their resource base may be threatened was enough to guarantee Raven hostility.  Their politics and actions leading up to and during the war caste them in poor light and thwarted attempts to build a political power base with other Clans.

Secondly, Clan Coyote opposed the Adders by virtue of their long enmity and the Clan required a focus following its heavy defeat on Huntress, which opposition to Clan Star Adder provided.  The Coyotes, now holding assets that brought them back to close to their Golden Century strength, believed that they could assume their dominance of the Grand Council as a regained right.  However, they found that few were willing to listen to them, due to their performance and arrogance.

The real power within the Grand Council rested with the Star Adders, who had the full support of Clans Cloud Cobra, Fire Mandrill and Goliath Scorpion and the support, albeit conditional, of the Burrocks and Blood Spirits.  With control of the Grand Council assured, ilKhan N’Buta set their next meeting for the 1st of July and required all Clans to report on their strength and holdings.

The accounting of strength demanded by the ilKhan was slightly different from earlier such requests, with each Clan to provide its total population, as per normal, but also its production capabilities based on several standards developed by N’Buta.  This would allow the ilKhan to gauge the strength of each more accurately.

The first standard measurement was the Standard Combat Cluster (SCC), set by the ilKhan at 60 OmniMechs, 30 OmniFighters and 150 Elementals.  Huge by many Clan standards, the SCC pointed to some of the later reforms that ilKhan N’Buta would seek to make within the Core Clans.  The second military standard was the Lola WarShip Standard.  As the Lola III was the most common vessel in Clan Space, each Clan would report total ship numbers and then its fleet strength in LWS’s.

Lastly, production of OmniMechs, OmniFighters and Battlesuits would be lumped together into single Military Output Standard (MOS), which accounted for resource input and material output of each Clan’s military industrial base.  These Standard Industrial Outputs were complex to calculate, but gave the ilKhan a powerful tool for evaluating the Clans, as did the Total DropShip and JumpShip Yard (TDJY) numbers for each Clan and the number of WarShip Construction Yards (WSCY) and WarShip Servicing Yards (WSSY). 

Once the ilKhan received the data, the pecking order of the Clans became rapidly evident.  Clan Star Adder stood above all, based on the strength of their ground forces, which made up for their lower population and industrial figures.  However, placed second was Clan Snow Raven, based on their naval strength, something the Clans undervalued, despite the key role they played in the recent war. 

Third, stood Clan Blood Spirit, rapidly coming out of its isolation whilst working with Clan Star Adder and feeling its new strength.  The Cloud Cobras stood next, despite the losses of their campaign against the Hell’s Horses, as a more balanced Clan and the industrial powerhouse of the Homeworlds.  Clan Coyote ranked fifth, feeling itself superior to most, but reality would set in over the coming years, forcing an internal revaluation of what the Clan stood for.  Clan Burrock stood sixth, despite what it gained from Clan Wolf, with the small size of its Touman limiting its voice and the losses from the Wolf campaign adding to the lack of perceived power within the Clan.  Considered more powerful than the Goliath Scorpions, Clan Fire Mandrill lacked flexibility their Scorpion brethren possessed but their gains and larger pre-war size kept them ahead of the Scorpions.

CLAN   Population   MOS   TDJY   WSCY   WSSY   SCC   WarShips   LWS   Strength   Rank Clan Blood Spirit   153,825,000   33   25   1   5   32   8   11   397   3 Clan Burrock   237,125,000   35   26   2   4   28   15   12   372   6 Clan Cloud Cobra   180,075,000   60   15   2   5   27   19   24   395   4 Clan Coyote   229,250,000   33   18      5   31   9   10   383   5 Clan Fire Mandrill   127,400,000   25   3      2   26   7   8   306   7 Clan Goliath Scorpion   162,925,000   30   21      6   18   22   35   270   8 Clan Snow Raven   244,300,000   58   77   6   11   29   44   71   519   2 Clan Star Adder   163,800,000   49   27   2   7   48   12   16   595   1    1,498,700,000   323   212   13   45   238   136   187

      

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Abele on November 26, 2015, 07:53:52 AM

What do SCC and LWS mean?

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Takiro on November 26, 2015, 08:06:41 AM

An interesting reordering of Clan society.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on November 26, 2015, 02:27:35 PM

Quote from: Abele on November 26, 2015, 07:53:52 AM

What do SCC and LWS mean?

The first standard measurement was the Standard Combat Cluster (SCC), set by the ilKhan at 60 OmniMechs, 30 OmniFighters and 150 Elementals.  Huge by many Clan standards, the SCC pointed to some of the later reforms that ilKhan N’Buta would seek to make within the Core Clans.  The second military standard was the Lola WarShip Standard.  As the Lola III was the most common vessel in Clan Space, each Clan would report total ship numbers and then its fleet strength in LWS’s.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: fitzgerald on November 26, 2015, 10:27:01 PM

So the Goliath Scorpions issue of too much fleet vs ground pounders continues.


Because a 22 ship fleet with an LWS of 35 makes them the second strongest in warships

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Takiro on November 26, 2015, 11:10:36 PM

Hey Blacknova, how did you come up with the Burrock touman? I'm doing some work of my own hence my question.  ;)

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on November 27, 2015, 02:34:11 AM

I don't really remember, as it was done originally for the KU and based on hints from FM: Crusaders and a couple of other sources.  It does not have the HTP: Revival Trials info, but I can send you a full Touman list of you like for comparison.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Takiro on November 27, 2015, 06:19:48 AM

Please do!

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on November 27, 2015, 07:00:32 PM

Here are the Burrocks as of mid-3062.  I use X for Clan experince as exceptional, to better balance them against the IS.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on December 06, 2015, 02:00:18 AM

-15-
12th of May, 3063
CWS Werewolf, Tamar
Clan Wolf Occupation Zone

Phelan Kell focused on the Khan of Clan Smoke Jaguar, Brandon Howell, who stood opposite him on flag bridge of the Wolf Clan flagship, CWS Werewolf.  The dark haired and plain featured Jaguar Khan had attended this meeting in full Smoke Jaguar dress uniform, less the Jaguar helm, of a light grey semi-jumpsuit, back boots and belt, with a light grey cloak that was deep red upon the inside.  The officers who accompanied Howell, were similarly attired, with saKhan Tatiana Kotare, tall, dark and severe to his left and Galaxy Commander Joho Perez to his right.  Perez was similar in many respects to his Khan, though the new Alpha Galaxy Commander was notably younger.

Dressing up, at least in Phelan’s mind, he his fellow Wolf Clan officers were wearing their light tan and brown first class uniform with its red cloak.  Attending the Wolf Khan was his saKhan Marthe Pryde, worse for wear following the hard campaign against the Ghost Bears and the shock of the Homeworlds War.  Marthe had become cold and harder over the last few weeks and Phelan was becoming worried about her and others demeanour following the Wolf ejection from the Homeworlds.  Marthe stood at his right, beyond her was Katya Kerensky, rushed here along the command circuit from the Homeworlds, which was even now being rolled up by the Wolf Clan evacuation convoys.  Kerensky was the first of his new Orloks, as was Erik Kerensky, a sibkin of Ulric Kerensky, who stood to Phelan’s left. 

Phelan spoke first, “Welcome Khan Howell of Clan Smoke Jaguar, welcome to the home of the Wolf following your great victories against Clans Nova Cat, Ghost Bear and Coyote and your conquests of the worlds of the Combine, long has it been since a Wolf was able to welcome a Jaguar within our den.”

Howell’s eye’s widened a little at the honour showed in his greeting. You are here for something Howell, and I may need you as much as you must need me.

The Jaguar Khan took a breath and responded, “Khan Kell, long has it been since a Wolf Khan offered such words to a Jaguar.  I have marvelled at the strength of the Wolves, strength which has grown when allied to your wisdom.”

How did those worlds taste coming out of your mouth? Nope, no need to tell me, the look on the faces of your officers is enough. saKhan Kotare was staring open mouthed at her Khan, whilst Galaxy Commander Peres’s face had gone flat, seeming to drain of blood.

Phelan bowed his head, “Khan Howell, I am honoured by your words, however, before was cause either of our assembled retinues to collapse, I would suggest we turn to business quickly.”

Phelan could have sworn the Jaguar Khan smiled slightly as he responded, You are a different beast, are you not Brandon? “Khan Kell, your suggestion would seem most welcome to some.”

Phelan gestured to the Jaguar officers to sit at the long holotable that occupied a third of the flag bridge, with the Jaguar officers waiting until Howell and then Kell sat, then sat as the other Wolf officers did.

“Khan Howell, considering recent events and the tasks each Clan now faces in this new order we find ourselves in, I find it intriguing that you would come to Tamar at this date.”

Howell reclined slightly, “It may seem so on the surface Khan Kell, but in reality, it is the wisest thing for the two most powerful Clans remaining in the Inner Sphere to discuss the immediate future.”

Kell indicated graciously that Howell continue to speak, “By all means then Khan Howell, please place your cards on the table.”

Howell remained silent for a moment then began speaking, “Do you truly understand the unity Khan Kell?”

“I am not sure I follow you Khan Howell, do you ask if I truly understand Clan society?”

Howell shook his head, “No I mean the unity.  However, I am sure that Clan Wolf, even as the descendants of the Kerensky legacy, do not consciously understand it, even though you are the leading proponents of it.  My Jaguars understand it, we always have, hence many of our actions, though of late they were more instinctual then well thought out.”

Kell cocked his head to one side, “You mean our ability to bring together disparate views?”

Before Howell could answer, Marthe Pryde answered from his right, her voice cold, “He means we are killers my Khan.”

Howell nodded once, “Your saKhan sees to the heart of the matter, but not its logical conclusion.  Of all the Clans of Kerensky, you have ended the lines of more of your brother Clans than any other, the Falcons and Widowmakers you absorbed, the Not Named you annihilated.  Four became one.  We Jaguars took the Mongoose Clan, for all the good it did us and the Burrocks fell to the Star Adders.  Now N’Buta has taken much of what we are and made his eight stronger for it.”  He paused, “Do you see it now?”

“You believe we are better for the victories that brought us strength?”

“No Khan Kell.  Perhaps it is because you became Clan and were not born Clan that you cannot see the fundamental underlying truth of Clan society.  It operates at every level, through labourer to Warrior and within each caste.  We strive towards it everyday, both consciously and unconsciously, with our past littered with the heaped corpses of those who fell under the reality of what it is to be Clan.  The Great Founder Nicholas Kerensky created us this way, knew this tool would be vital in creating his chosen ones, those who would rule over all mankind.  The Founder even made sure it would happen as soon as it was necessary when Terra fell, if it had not been accomplished by other means beforehand.”

He stopped for a moment, to see if Kell would speak, “Khan Kell, the truth of the Clans is that there can be only one.  The unity, as we speak of it, is thought by most to be the unity of the twenty, or sixteen as it is now, but that is not the truth of it.  The unity is the unity of the twenty in the one.”

There was silence for a time, before Kell spoke, “Only one Clan?”

“Yes.”

“He is right my Khan.” Said Marthe.

“Your saKhan is more in tune with what I speak of, the Falcons always were, despite their lack of Absorption.”  Howell gestured around the room, “We have reached a crossroad for the Clans, many are weakened and ripe for taking, whilst all those thrown from the Homeworlds stand on a precipice.  N’Buta, scheming dezgra that he is, seems to have partially grasped this fact, we Jaguars understand it, as do some of the Falcons in your ranks.  Some Vipers do, in their own bizarre way, but the other Clans fail to grasp the fact of what lies before us now.”

Kell’s face had grown grim, “And that fact is Khan Howell?”

“If eight remain when N’Buta comes, and come he will, then none will survive.  We, as the strongest two Clans, must become stronger still; otherwise we will be crushed between the Inner Sphere and the Homeworlds.”

Kell snorted, “You want to convene a Council of the Inner Sphere Clans and then call for at least two Absorptions.”

“Khan Kell, you continue to amaze me.  You of all people, someone who has been able to force the Clans to think outside of the box for so long are now trapped by your very own gifts.”

As some of his officers shifted at the insult, Phelan only became more wary, What is he driving at?  “Khan Howell, please enlighten me, for you seem to want to complete the entirety of your sermon.”  Kell’s voice was hard, which Howell picked up on.

“Khan Kell,” Howell continued in a measured voice “My last comment was not meant as an insult, you have done extraordinary things with your Clan, but you amongst all our brethren must understand that a new viewpoint can often unlock doors you did not even know existed?  For example, your new organisation intrigues me, what are these Orloks you announced to me upon arrival.”

Nice change of topic. “Khan Howell, Clan Wolf controls over 100 worlds across a huge volume of space, with eighty Clusters and numerous garrison forces.  I have created two new ranks, as is my right under the Martial Code, Section 12.”  Kell paused, recalling the text from his memory, “Any Khan may, dependent on the realities of the theatre in question, appoint officers as necessary to command large bodies of troops, usually those larger than a Galaxy.”

“An oft used provision Khan Kell, by many Clans.”

“It is Khan Howell, I have merely formalised it due to the realities of the Wolf Clan Occupation Zone.  The Zone is now broken into five Ordu, each of which will soon have at least three Galaxies of what are now called Combat Clusters, formerly Front and Second Line Clusters, one or more Naval Stars and dozens of Provisional Garrison Clusters – what were once called planetary militias.  For each Ordu an Orlok commands.  Beneath the Orlok, commanding the Combat Galaxies of a Tumen is a Tumetu, effectively the Orloks combat commander and leading two to five Galaxies.  Commanding the Provisional Garrison Clusters, which are grouped as a Mingat, and assisting the Orlok with the good governance of the Ordu, is a Minggan.  In order to become a Khan of Clan Wolf, an officer now must have served in one or more of these roles.  My Wolves need to be more than Warriors and Generals if we are to survive, we must also be good overlords and wise masters of our holdings if we are to prosper in the times ahead.”

Howell looked thoughtful, “You borrow terms our first ilKhan may well have considered whilst creating a General Staff and administrative organ that will be both flexible and clear in the management of your Occupation Zone.  This is what I speak of when I say you are one of us but not born of us, you adapt the Clans to the Inner Sphere, but you have not finished adapting to the Clans yet.”

“Perhaps not Khan Howell, but please, if you could finish your line of thought from earlier when you disagreed with my point about a Clan Council.”

Howell chuckled, “What good would such a Council do us?  The eight would bicker and trying to choose a leader would be pointless.  The Horses, Cats and maybe the Bears would follow you, none of the rest of us would.  The Vipers are isolationists at best, the Hellions a pack of rank idiots and my Jaguars would never follow a Wolf again after Ulric, as your wolves would not follow me after what ilKhan Showers did.  What is more, any call for Absorption will be opposed by all but one or two Clans.  What is the point of any ongoing Clan Council?”

Phelan shrugged, “None in your view.”

“Yes!” Said Howell with some vehemence “There is no point, however, there is War and it holds its own council on Absorption.”

It then dawned on Phelan why the Smoke Jaguars were here.  Audacious! “You seek to destroy Clan Ghost Bear.”

There was silence at the table as Kell’s words hung over the table, all whilst Khan Howell smiled at Phelan.

“The time has come,” responded Howell, “to free ourselves of the past and advance on the future, otherwise we will fall.”

Phelan sat back, “Why should Clan Wolf assist Clan Smoke Jaguar with a war to destroy another Clan?  We have no trust in you Khan Jaguar.”

“Because we both need the resources and troops we will capture and neither can do it without the other.  Besides, even if you do not trust the Jaguar, the reality is this: You have the Viper and we the Cats to deal with, neither of which can be caught in a vice like the Bears can and both of which would break one or either of us were we to go to war with each other.  By combining our assaults, we can both gain much, especially so should our Homeworld troops strike along the Coreward flank of the Bears, in effect rolling them up as they advance.”

“And the Cats and Vipers, what of them?”

Howell smiled, “If they turn towards us, they will be struck by the Inner Sphere as they weaken their garrisons, just as the Combine did recently.”

“Perhaps, “ Phelan was not convinced on this last point.  “And what of Ghost Bear industry, that is the true prize here?”

“Clan Smoke Jaguar would claim Thule and Alshain, Clan Wolf would have Spittal and Goito.”

Murmurs came from the Wolf side of the table as both Kotare and Peres smiled.  “You think the Jaguars could take more than half the Bear industry?  You have only fifty-five Clusters to our seventy-eight and cannot commit more than thirty of those.  The fifty we can commit will overshadow your force by more than a third, but you claim a stake that is rightfully ours by numbers.”

Howell’s face became hard, “Khan Wolf, based upon the division I suggested, Clan Wolf would still hold more than 12% more industrial Mech lines than Clan Smoke Jaguar at the end of the War.  Besides, Alshain is contiguous with or zone, not yours.”

“Down from 47% greater production now and you have not even stated what would happen with the orbital facilities at Alshain, though no doubt you would see them remain in Jaguar hands?”

“I would,” said Howell, “You possess two yards capable of WarShip construction in the Inner Sphere already, we have none.”

“Your problem Howell, not mine.”  Said Phelan in a heated voice.  Before Khan Howell could respond, Phelan raised his hand and said more quietly, “I suggest an alternative.”

Howell indicated that Phelan should continue, “Should we join you in this task, we divide the Bear Occupation Zone on a line from Najha to between Porthos and Thule.  However, the worlds of Thule, Goito, Spittal and Alshain are separated from this division.  Each of these we trial for the right to attack, no bidding, as we will need all we can both muster to put down an enraged Bear and engaging in a bidding war will only allow the Bears to survive.  For Alshain, we Trial for the right to assault the world and its orbitals separately.”

“No bidding, but we Trial in combat for that we truly desire between us.”  Howell said as he rubbed his jaw. “This is acceptable.  Bargained well and done Khan Wolf.  I have the 5th Jaguar Dragoons aboard the Streaking Mist, five stars of Warriors would be more than sufficient for the task at hand.”

Dammit, the best I have on Tamar is the 1st Wolf Assault, but I have no choice.  Bastard’s played me. “Very well Khan Howell, you will have your Trials.”

Several minutes after the Jaguars had left, Phelan addressed his commanders, “The Jaguar seeks to use the Wolf as tool to strengthen himself.  He is no different from N’Buta, though his statement that there can only be one is more than likely true.  Prepare ten Wolf Galaxies for the assault and no matter what happens in the Trials we are about to fight, four land on Alshain and two on the other three worlds.  The Jaguar can choke on the remainder of the Ghost Bear Occupation Zone.  Assemble the Battle Line as well, our three most powerful Naval Stars go to Alshain to break the Leviathans there, one other to each of the remaining targets.”

Katya Kerensky spoke up, “Khan Kell, we risk much on his line of action.  We are proceeding in the face of potential Trial losses and cast away Clan law.”

“Yes Katya we are, but Howell has made himself dezgra by seeking to Absorb a Clan without Trial, so it is our duty to ensure that the strength of the Bear is joined to that of the Wolf, rather than the Jaguar, as that Clan cannot be trusted with the future of the Clans

"Seyla Said his commanders.

The Old ways are dead Khan Howell, you are just about to learn that fact.

**********************************************************************************

As they sat on the shuttle back to the CSJ Streaking Mist, Howell looked to his saKhan, “Whatever happens saKhan, plan an assault on Alshain, we cannot allow the world to fall to the Wolves.”

**********************************************************************************

Three weeks later the Khan of Clan Ghost Bear turned to the saKhan, “The reserves of the Wolves and Jaguars will be arriving from the Homeworlds soon, we must concentrate additional forces on our major worlds so that they cannot use their additional troops to take what is rightfully ours.”

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: muttley on December 07, 2015, 10:22:11 PM

This should be a good war.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on December 10, 2015, 04:56:21 AM

OK, I have jumped ahead from May to October, but will go back to fill things in, as I wanted to get this out of my head so I can focus on some other stuff, which means there will be no more updates for a couple of weeks. 

However, please enjoy the crazy.


The Ghost Bear Conflict
Desperate times often see desperate measures, history has always shown us this, however, the actions of three desperate Clans: Ghost Bear; Smoke Jaguar; and Wolf in mid-3063, showed just how desperate the situation had become amongst the Clans.  We in the Inner Sphere were unaware of the pressures emanating from the Homeworlds, pressures that not only drove Khans Kell and Howell into seeking the death of Clan Ghost Bear, but into a willingness to prevent the other from gaining an advantage over the other.

The true ember that set the fires of Clan carnage alight was the success of the Wolf Clan’s 1^st Assault Cluster in a single trial against the Jaguar’s Keshik troops.  Clan Smoke Jaguar won the right to assault Alshain, both its orbitals and grounds facilities, Spittal and Thule.  Clan Wolf won only a single Trial, that for the world of Goito, though information in Khan Kell’s journals show that he had drawn up plans to assault all five targets no matter the outcome.  The actions of the Smoke Jaguars showed that Khan Howell had exactly the same plans as Khan Kell, however, fate would intervene to change the plans of all three Clans.

As the convoys from the Homeworlds approached, Clan Ghost Bear began to pull forces into its major industrial enclaves, massing Alpha and Zeta Galaxies on Alshain, Rho on Spittal, Tau on Goito and Pi on Thule, with other deployments changed across the Occupation Zone. Additionally, the Ghost Bears massed their fleet over the four worlds, with two of the powerful Leviathan-class at Alshain and one at Thule, though both of the former carried damage from the fighting with Clan Wolf.  The Ghost Bears movements went undetected by Clan Wolf and Clan Smoke Jaguar and even by Clan Diamond Shark, whose attention was on its own convoys along the route to the Homeworlds and their own developing plans.

Clan Smoke Jaguar would get the jump on Clan Wolf, launching its strikes on October 2, hitting Thule, Goito and Spittal with a Galaxy supported by WarShips and sending two Galaxies to Alshain with heavy naval support.  What would come to be called Black Friday by Clan Smoke Jaguar would see some of the bloodiest fighting that Clan had partaken in since Tukayyid. 
What was worse for Clan Smoke Jaguar was that the reorganisation of the Wolf Touman for the coming assault.  It would take the Wolves more than two weeks to sort out their logistical issues, learning during that time that Clan Smoke Jaguar had struck all four targets.  This played right into Khan Kell’s hands, though he was unclear on what was exactly happening on each world.  However, Khan Kell now had a pretext for assaulting all his planned targets and one that would play well with both the Wolves and other Clans.  Clan Wolf now had the opportunity to break two Clans and prepare its path to absolute ascendency with in the Occupation Zones.  On October 15, Clan Wolf’s four task forces materialised at the LaGrange points of each system to be meet with visions of catastrophe.
 
Phase 1 – The Smoke Jaguar Assault
Clan Smoke Jaguar planned to pre-empt any Wolf strikes on primary target worlds, as well as take Clan Ghost Bear unaware, thereby seizing key objectives, facilities and worlds quickly. Dedicated to the task were twenty-eight Clusters and twenty WarShips, a force greater than any Clan Smoke Jaguar had ever deployed in a single action.
 
Alshain – Phase 1
Clan Smoke Jaguar sent Alpha and the reorganised Ironguard Galaxy to Alshain, the Ironguard rebuilt and reorganised since it left Huntress.  The Jaguar OOB for the assault was:
ALPHA GALAXY
Jaguar's Spirit Keshik
5th Jaguar Dragoons
6th Jaguar Dragoons
9th Jaguar Cavaliers
33rd Jaguar Assault
IRONGUARD GALAXY
43rd Jaguar Battle
48th Jaguar Battle
14th Jaguar Regulars
63rd Jaguar Regulars
NAVAL SUPPORT
CSJ Streaking Mist                           (Black Lion)
CSJ Blood of the Coyote                                (Cameron)
CSJ Spirit in the Sky                          (Liberator)
CSJ Firecrest                                       (Congress)
CSJ Snow Leopard                           (Congress)
CSJ Storm Cat                                    (Lola III)               
 
Defending Alshain were some of the finest Clusters in Clan Ghost Bear and the massed Elementals of Zeta Galaxy’s four Claw Clusters, backed by seven PGC’s, though they consisted primarily of light tanks and light infantry.  The core of the Ghost Bear Fleet, which included two Leviathan-class Battleships, covered this force.
ALPHA GALAXY
Ourse Keshik
1st Bear Guards
3rd Bear Guards
50th Bear Striker
1st Rasalhague Bears
ZETA GALAXY
1st Claw
2nd Claw
3rd Claw
4th Claw
ALPHA ALSHAIN PGG
1st Alshain PGC
2nd Alshain PGC
3rd Alshain PGC
4th Alshain PGC
BETA ALSHAIN PGG
5th Alshain PGC
6th Alshain PGC
7th Alshain PGC
NAVAL SUPPORT
CGB Rasalhague              (Leviathan)
CGB Leviathan                  (Leviathan)
CGB Ursa Minor                               (York)
CGB Langcaster                 (York)
CGB Black Ghost              (Fredesa)
 
When the Jaguars emerged at the assault jump points, they immediately realised they had misjudged the Bears, as the two massive Leviathans defending the world and their escorts began to run straight at the Jaguars.  Detaching the DropShips, Khan Howell made immediately for the planet, commanding his Star Admirals to keep the Bear ships and fighters off his back.  He planned to take the world and starve the Bear fleet of support from the surface.

Khan Howell declared to the Ghost Bear Khans, that Clan Smoke Jaguar decreed that the Ghost Bears no longer had the right to exist and would be destroyed or join with the Jaguars.  This announcement incensed the Ghost Bears, who viewed the coming battle for what it was, an unsanctioned Trial of Absorption.  This ploy by Howell, designed to weaken the Ghost Bear’s morale, would backfire badly, as the usually stoic Bears abandoned all pretences of civilised warfare.

The Jaguar fleet made straight for the two Battleships and met a level of firepower rarely seen, crumpling under the barrage.  Though the Jaguars were able to eliminate the CGB Black Ghost, which was deployed forward of the main Bear line, they then fell under the guns of the CGB Rasalhague and CGB Leviathan.  Despite the firepower levelled against them, the Smoke Jaguars took the fight into the teeth of the Ghost Bears getting within mere kilometres of their opponents.  CGB Rasalhague was driven off as every Jaguar ship poured fire into it, but the huge vessel was able to make running repairs and return to the fray.  The Jaguars managed to land marines aboard CGB Leviathan and CGB Ursa Minor, but despite valiant attempts and large gains, the Ghost Bears drove off or killed the marines. 

Meanwhile, the enraged Bears, with CSJ Firecrest and CSJ Snow Leopard the first to fall, smashed one Smoke Jaguar ship after another into nothingness.  However, the Jaguar fleet held its formation until the CSJ Streaking Mist blew apart and the Jaguars line disintergrated. Divided, the Smoke Jaguar fleet was caught in a crossfire as CGB Rasalhague returned and after three hours of brutal fighting, six Jaguar Warships were lost, along with a single Ghost Bear Corvette.

On the planet’s surface below, Khan Howell, though disturbed by the loss of his fleet, was quietly optimistic, as arrayed before him were the PGC’s of Alshain and the Ourse Keshik and 1^st Claw, the units he expected to see.

The Jaguars advanced in “old style” a frontal assault aimed at the Ourse and 1^st Claw in the Bears centre.  Khan Howell planned to crush the best of Clan Ghost Bear and then mop up the PGC’s. The Ourse and the 1^st Claw gave way, whilst the PGC’s struck on the Jaguar flank.  Once the Jaguar assault was stretched out, two Clusters from the Bear Alpha and a Claw Cluster from Zeta Galaxy appeared on each side of the Jaguar advance, as the 3^rd Claw reinforced the centre of the Bear line.

For six hours the Jaguars fought for their lives, with the Jaguar Centre finally giving way, where the Keshik and 5^th and 6^th Jaguar Grenadiers were broken when the Ghost Bear Khan destroyed Khan Howells Mech – the Khan’s body was not recovered. With the centre collapsing, the remaining Jaguar forces had little option but to withdraw, as they faced defeat in detail.  The gallant sacrifice of the 63^rd Regulars, who died to a man, was not enough to allow the Jaguars to properly reform.  Harried back to their DropShips the Jaguars lifted off, but were not pursued by the Bears in space or on the ground, as their own losses were heavy as well.

The invasion of Alshain had cost Clan Smoke Jaguar it reformist Khan, eight WarShips and 49% of the forces that landed on world.  For the Ghost Bears, a single WarShip was lost, whilst the remainder were in a poor state and 31% of their ground forces had been destroyed, though most of their Clusters retained their integrity. 

However, just as the Ghost Bears began the process of recovery, two days after the Smoke Jaguars jumped away, fifteen Clan Wolf WarShips materialised, along with four Galaxies of troops.
 
Spittal – Phase 1
Clan Smoke Jaguar was confident that Spittal would fall quickly to the warriors of Beta Galaxy and their strong WarShip escort, expecting only a couple of defending WarShips and a single Cluster and supporting PGC’s to be on world.

The Jaguar task force consisted of:
BETA GALAXY
The Swath Keshik
1st Jaguar Guards
2nd Jaguar Guards
362nd Jaguar Assault
267th Jaguar Battle
NAVAL SUPPORT
CSJ Vladivostock              (Sovetskii Soyuz)
CSJ Swarm                          (Samarkand II)
CSJ Azov                              (Vincent)
 
The Ghost Bears, as at Alshain, had pulled additional forces to the world and changed the defending ships.  The Smoke Jaguars would face a full Frontline Galaxy and a Nightlord-class Battleship.
RHO GALAXY
18th Bear Battle
243rd Bear Battle
283rd Bear Battle
297th Bear Battle
300th Bear Battle
SPITTAL PGC’s
1st Spittal PGC
2nd Spittal PGC
NAVAL SUPPORT
CGB Ursa Major                                (Nightlord)
CGB Blizzard                       (Lola III)
 
Like Alshain, the Ghost Bear fleet did not have the numbers to get past the Jaguar flotilla and engage the transports, however, that meant the three Jaguar ships were given the full attention of the CGB Ursa Major.  The Battleship made short work of the Jaguar fleet, destroying all three Jaguar ships with the assistance of its escort.

saKhan Tatiana Kotare was less adventurous than her Khan, reasoning that stronger naval defences could well mean stronger forces deployed against her on the ground.  However, Khan Kotare was pleasantly surprised to find that the two PGC’s had been reinforced, but only with the 18^th Battle reinforced by the 243^rd.  Advancing with three Clusters and leaving the Jaguar Guards as her reserve, Khan Kotare hit the Bears hard.  By the end of the second day, the two PGC’s were overrun and the 243^rd Bear Battle was breaking apart, though at the cost of considerable casualties to the the 362^nd and the Swarthe Keshik. 

The Ghost Bear Reserve Clusters swung into action before dawn on the third day and broke both the 267^th Battle and the 2^nd Jaguar Guards in a massive flank attack. Only the timely injection of the 1^st Guards prevented a complete route, but the Jaguars were forced to withdraw and depart the system, though the CGB Blizzard managed to destroy several retreating transports.

The battle cost the Smoke Jaguars 45% of the forces they sent to the world and three more WarShips, whilst the Bears lost 33% of their frontline forces and 60% of their PGC’s, rendering the latter combat ineffective.  The Jaguars had again underestimated both the ability of Clan Ghost Bear to reinforce and the Bear’s savagery in defending their home against what they saw as dezgra assaults.  However, like Alshain, the Bears had barely begun their recovery when Wolf forces arrived in system: eight WarShips escorting two Galaxies.
 
Goito – Phase 1
Khan Howell had sent orders to Galaxy Commander Hang Mehta that Goito must be taken rapidly, so that the Jaguars could dig in before the Wolf Assault arrived.  Mehta’s force consisted of:
 
DELTA GALAXY
Skyriders Keshik
3rd Jaguar Cavaliers
3rd Jaguar Assault
75th Jaguar Assault
19th Jaguar Striker
NAVAL SUPPORT
CSJ Violent End                 (Aegis)
CSJ Obsidian                      (McKenna)
CSK Dark Shadow            (McKenna)
 
The Ghost Bears had stripped away the 63^rd Bear PG, but replaced it with the remaining four Clusters of the Clan’s oldest Second Line Galaxy; a force known for is tenaciousness.
TAU GALAXY
1st Bear Regulars
2nd Bear Regulars
9th Bear PGC
18th Bear PGC
37th Bear PGC
GOITO PGG
1st Goito PGC
2nd Goito PGC
NAVAL SUPPORT
CGB Bear's Den                 (Black Lion)
CGB Icepick                         (Lola III)
CGB Ursine Boatman     (Volga)
 
The Jaguar fleet was, on paper, far superior to the Bear’s ships, however the fighting at Huntress and the long journey from there meant that both the Jaguar Battleships were in poor condition.  Though the large ships were able to destroy both the CGB Icepick and CGB Ursine Boatman, the CSJ Obsidian blew up when weakened armour was penetrated and Ghost Bear Marines captured the Aegis-class Violent End by approaching along lanes where the Jaguar ship had lost its weapons.  The CGB Bear's Den then hammered the CSJ Dark Shadow into a battered wreck.

Ignoring the battle above, Delta Galaxy made a rapid landing and advance on the planetary capital, but found themselves delayed by the inundated terrain around the capital, which was soaked from recent heavy rain.  This allowed Tau Galaxy to fight a slow withdrawal, which though it cost them both PGC’s, which lacked the mobility to avoid the Jaguar frontline Clusters, prevented Delta from gaining too much ground.

When Clan Wolf appeared with five WarShips and two Galaxies, Clan Smoke Jaguar had lost three WarShips and 31% of its troops, whilst the Bears had lost two WarShips, captured a barely operational Cruiser and 41% of their ground troops.
 
Thule Phase – 1
The final world contested by the three Clans, Thule saw the dispatch of Clan Smoke Jaguar’s Epsilon Galaxy and its escort:
EPSILON GALAXY
The Dark Prowlers Keshik
4th Jaguar Dragoons
7th Jaguar Dragoons
304th Jaguar Battle
6th Jaguar Striker
NAVAL SUPPORT
CSJ Hunter's Pride                            (Congress)
CSJ Hell Fury                                       (Fredesa)
CSJ Hell Rage                                      (Fredesa)
CSJ Queen Lynx                                 (York)
CSJ Osis' Pride                                    (Potemkin)
CSJ Simas Osis                                   (Vincent)
CSJ Whirling Jaguar                        (Whirlwind)
CSJ Lioness                                          (York)
 
Clan Ghost Bear had massed its second line Pi Galaxy on Thule, so that its Frontline Clusters in the region were freed up for mobile operations.  However, the naval units assigned to Thule were second only to those stationed above Alshain.
PI GALAXY
23rd Bear PGC
29th Bear PGC
54th Bear PGC
5th Bear Phalanx
13th Bear Phalanx
Thule PGC
NAVAL SUPPORT
CGB Great Bear                                                (Leviathan)
CGB White Claw                               (Essex)
CGB Yggdrasil                                    (Carrack)
 
The Jaguar fleet, despite discovering the presence of the CGB Great Bear, was confident that it could be victorious and managed to separate and destroy both the CGB White Claw and CGB Yggdrasil before the big ship could bring its guns to bear. The Jaguars then tried to swarm the CGB Great Bear from every angle, but were met with volley after volley of highly accurate and withering fire, along with swarms of fighters.  The light weight vessels of the Jaguar squadron were obliterated one after the other, and with the death of last Jaguar WarShip, the CSJ Queen Lynx, the Smoke Jaguar fleet was completely destroyed, all within 24 hours of the go order for the assaults.

Epsilon Galaxy fared little better on the ground, as Pi Galaxy had created a huge network of defences that the Jaguars attempts to bull through came to naught upon.  PGC’s and Phalanx Clusters were underestimated by the Jaguars at every turn and the reinforcement of the world by Clan Ghost Bear saw overconfident Jaguar commanders make repeated blunders against a prepared and motivated foe.  When Clan Wolf arrived on the 13^th, the Jaguars withdrew, as the Wolf Commander declared he would fight all defenders on world.

As the Jaguars departed, they left behind 32% of their forces, the hulks of eight WarShips and the honour of the 4^th Dragoons and 304^th Battle, both of which had been savaged by the defenders.  Clan Ghost Bear’s Pi Galaxy’s efforts had cost it much, with losses of 30% having weakened some formations and two WarShips had fallen.
 
Phase 1 Summary
Over the course of the first two weeks in October, Clan Ghost Bear repelled massive assaults from Clan Smoke Jaguar, including smaller strikes against the worlds of Marawi and Tinaca, where fighting continued.  The defence of each system was undertaken with skill and determination and the overconfidence of the Jaguars only magnified the scale of their failure to take even a single world. 

Within twenty-four hours, Clan Smoke Jaguars fleet was annihilated, with nineteen WarShips destroyed and one captured.  The loss of the Jaguars prime strategic asset would leave them shockingly vulnerable in years to come and would see a rapid realignment of resource allocation in their occupation zone.  Additionally, Clan Smoke Jaguar had lost over 36% of the ground forces deployed, nearly one fifth of the entire Jaguar Touman, including Khan Brandon Howell, the Clan’s great reformer.  However, before the Clan could even come to terms with these losses, Clan Wolf struck. It would take all of the supplies and reserve brought forward from Huntress to fill the ranks of the Touman over the coming months and present the illusion of strength, but the defeats had gutted the Jaguar reserves and the Clan would require years to recover from the defeats it had suffered.

Clan Ghost Bear suffered far fewer losses than the Jaguars and were entertaining the possibilities of a counter invasion when Clan Wolf arrived.  Historians have pondered what the results of such a counter-blow would have been, but most agree that the Bears could have taken Schuyler and broken Clan Smoke Jaguar. 

The Bears losses in the fighting were five WarShips, though they captured one.  Losses of the ground forces were 25% of the regular forces engaged and 61% of the Planetary PGC’s, which totalled losses of 37% of troops engaged, though the losses to the PGC’s were inconsequential to the Bears.  Loses to the total strength of the regular Touman were 11.5%, large, but recoverable from the Bear stockpiles and battlefield salvage.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on December 10, 2015, 04:58:58 AM

Phase 2 – The Wolf Assault
Knowing they were facing the possibility of dual fights on four worlds, the Wolves counted their blessings in that they had earmarked huge numbers of troops for their operations, wagering that the fighting against the Federated Commonwealth would keep the Steel Vipers and Ice Hellions attention until the end of the year. 

Not even the mass deployment of Clan Star Adder six months earlier matched the force deployed by Clan Wolf, which was nearly the size of the original Clan invasion of the Inner Sphere. Fifty Clusters, along with all thirty-six of Clan Wolf’s WarShips surged into the four systems to find the wreckage of Smoke Jaguar ships, damaged Bear vessels and in two cases, no trace of the Smoke Jaguars.  Rapid HPG communications between the four assault groups provided Khan Phelan Kell with a rough picture and his orders that day have taken on an almost mythic significance within Clan Wolf.  The signal from CWS Werewolf was: “Go for the throat.”
 
Alshain – Phase 2
Clan Wolf dispatched four Galaxies into the Alshain system, along with its fifteen most powerful WarShips, well aware of the firepower that the Bears possessed with their Leviathan-class ships.
ALPHA GALAXY
Golden Keshik
4th Wolf Guards
1st Wolf Assault
5th Wolf Battle
4th Wolf Striker
VAU GALAXY
Emerald Keshik
1st Wolf Guards
1st Wolf Hussars
1st Wolf Jaegers
2nd Wolf Jaegers
ETA GALAXY
Black Keshik
1st Wolf Velites
3rd Wolf Velites
1st Wolf Striker
109th Wolf Striker
LAMBDA GALAXY
1st Wolf Guardians
8th Wolf Grenadiers
2nd Wolf Regulars
6th Wolf Regulars
7th Wolf PGC
NAVAL SUPPORT
CWS Werewolf                                  (McKenna)
CWS Emerald Talon                         (Nightlord)
CWS Falcon's Nest                           (Texas)
CWS Jade Aerie                                 (Texas)
CWS White Aerie                              (Black Lion)
CWS Implacable                               (Black Lion)
CWS Blood Drinker                          (Black Lion)
CWS Ulric Kerensky                         (Cameron)
CWS Dieron's Run                            (Cameron)
CWS Janice Hazen                            (Aegis)
CWS Gold Talon                                                (Aegis)
CWS White Talon                             (Aegis)
CWS Blue Talon                                 (Aegis)
CWS Jade Talon                                                (Aegis)
CWS Victoria Ward                          (Liberator)
 
The defenders of Alshain had suffered serious losses over the previous two weeks and although their formations had adjusted, they had suffered losses that would make facing he Wolves a difficult proposition.
ALPHA GALAXY
Ourse Keshik                     (69%)
1st Bear Guards                                (46%)
3rd Bear Guards               (77%)
50th Bear Striker              (85%)
1st Rasalhague Bears      (69%)
ZETA GALAXY
1st Claw                               (69%)
2nd Claw                              (77%)
3rd Claw                               (85%)
4th Claw                               (77%)
ALPHA ALSHAIN PGG
1st Alshain PGC                 (61%)
2nd Alshain PGC               (50%)
3rd Alshain PGC                                (45%)
4th Alshain PGC                                (72%)
BETA ALSHAIN PGG
5th Alshain PGC                                (77%)
6th Alshain PGC                                (61%)
7th Alshain PGC                                (61%)
NAVAL SUPPORT
CGB Rasalhague              (Leviathan)         (36%)
CGB Leviathan                  (Leviathan)         (46%)
CGB Ursa Minor                               (York) (45%)
CGB Langcaster                 (York) (65%)
CGB Black Ghost              (Fredesa) (Destroyed)
 
The Wolf Fleet, consisting of fifteen Battleships, Battle Cruisers and Heavy Cruisers possessed overwhelming firepower, however, upon seeing the state of the Ghost Bear Fleet, the Wolves launched a massed marine assault and endeavoured to limit ship to ship fire. However, the realities of the operation meant that the suppression of Ghost Bear return fire was a necessity. Despite the numbers against them, the two massive Leviathan-class ships managed to destroy the CWS Dieron's Run and severely damage the CWS White Aerie and CWS Janice Hazen.  Despite the damage done to the Wolf Fleet, numbers and accumulated battle damage were too much for the Ghost Bear vessels.  CGB Ursa Minor  came apart under firefrom the CWS Emerald Talon, but the two Leviathans and the CGB Lancaster were taken by storm, though the former two vessels would require over a year in the Alshain yards to make good the damage they had sustained.

With the orbital battle won, Khan Kell landed his forces in a circle around the Bear capital and struck from four directions at once.  The initial Ghost Bear defence was fierce, with both the Alpha Galaxy southern assault, led by the 4^th Wolf Guards, and the Eta Galaxy eastern attack, fronted by the 109^th Striker Cluster repulsed.  However, the Bears lacked the numbers to turn back all four attacks and the breakthrough of Vau Galaxy’s Emerald Keshik and 1^st Wolf Guards in the north after three hours fighting, was followed shortly after by the surging advance of Lambda’s 8^th Wolf Grenadiers to the west.
The following day, Wolf forces from Vau and Lambda Galaxy expanded their breaches as Alpha and Eta became the anvil upon which the Bears were broken.  Thirty-seven hours of constant combat left less than 14% of the Bear forces on Alshain alive and the heart of their fleet in Wolf hands.  The Wolves suffered too, with a WarShip lost and 17% of their troops dead, the equivalent of one and half Clusters. 

Nevertheless, Clan Wolf had gained a vast prize, as Alshain was the heart of the Bear Empire.  Supplies and sibko cadets to make good what they had lost three times over were secured, as were the orbital yards, which had a WarShip construction yard, four servicing yards and sites for the construction of Broadsword and Union-C-class DropShips and Star Lord-class JumpShips.  Other facilities produced twelve different OmniMech and OmniFighter chassis, whilst four tank lines and two large Elemental Battle Armour facilities were also secured.

As his first act as the conquering Khan, Phelan Kell immediately formed up the surviving Ghost Bear Warriors into two oversized Clusters and inducted them into the Wolf Touman as the 1^st and 2^nd Wolf Uhlans, who would wear the colours of Clan Ghost Bear’s Alpha Galaxy and the Wolf’s head insignia.  Kell said to his new Wolves, “Your actions against two Clans were your Trial of Position as Wolves and the glory of your defence has convinced me that part of the Bear must survive in the Wolf, as does the Flacon and Widowmaker.”  Despite his words, Kell was pragmatic over the usefulness of the two Clusters and immediately dispatched them to reinforce the thinly defended border with Clan Steel Viper.
 
Spittal – Phase 2
Clan Wolf sent a strong force to Spittal, though its naval escort did not have the strength of those sent against other targets.
GAMMA GALAXY
Bronze Keshik
9th Wolf Guards
305th Wolf Assault
11th Wolf Battle
124th Wolf Striker
THETA GALAXY
White Keshik
103rd Wolf Striker
5th Wolf Cavalry
1st Wolf Legion
2nd Wolf Legion
NAVAL SUPPORT
CWS Full Moon                                                 (Potemkin)
CWS Emerald Tornado                   (Whirlwind)
CWS Nature's Wrath                      (Lola III)
CWS Trailblazer (Vincent)
CWS Lightning Strike                      (Vincent)
CWS Kerensky's Blues                     (Fredesa)
CWS Provider (Volga)
CWS Ironhold Provider                  (Carrack)
 
The Ghost Bear defence against the Jaguars had weakened Rho Galaxy, especially as casualties were heavy amongst officers and Bloodnamed following losses to Jaguar duelling practices.
RHO GALAXY
18th Bear Battle                (84%)
243rd Bear Battle             (55%)
283rd Bear Battle             (77%)
297th Bear Battle             (62%)
300th Bear Battle             (85%)
SPITTAL PGC’s
1st Spittal PGC                   (Destroyed)
2nd Spittal PGC                 (Destroyed
NAVAL SUPPORT
CGB Ursa Major                               (Nightlord) (90%)
CGB Blizzard                       (Lola III)                (77%)
 
The CGB Ursa Major was still in fighting trim when the Wolves arrived and it pounced, scattering the Wolf fleet.  Only close to reckless manoeuvring kept the Wolf WarShips between the Bears and the transports of Gamma and Theta Galaxies and the Bears took full advantage of the situation.  By the time CGB Blizzard detonated when its fuel bunkers cooked off and CGB Ursa Major was forced to jump away due to damage, the Wolf fleet had been savaged. CWS Full Moon and CWS Trailblazer were expanding debris clouds, CWS Nature's Wrath and CWS Kerensky's Blues had jumped away to save themselves, CWS Emerald Tornado and CWS Ironhold Provider were out of control but later recovered and only CWS Lightning Strike and CWS Provider remained functional for the Wolves.

Despite their near success in space, Clan Ghost Bear’s defence of Spittal against Clan Wolf fell apart rapidly, as the lack of senior officers hampered the coordination of the defence. Gamma and Theta Galaxies were able to rapidly overrun and pull apart the defences of all but the 18^th Bear Battle Cluster, which surrendered its remaining strength when the 243^rd was overrun and completely destroyed, leaving the 18^th on its own.  Ghost Bear deaths totalled nearly 85% of the troops deployed to Spittal, along with one of the defending WarShips.

Clan Wolf suffered lightly for its conquest in terms of ground troops, with only 13% losses being recorded, however, naval losses were heavy with two ships destroyed and four others severely damaged. Under orders from Khan Kell on Alshain, the Bear survivors were again pulled into a 3^rd Uhlan Cluster and dispatched to the Viper border.  The capture of Spittal netted the Wolves and additional eight OmniMech lines and six tank lines.
 
Goito – Phase 2
Clan Wolf and its saKhan Marthe Pryde, would face two foes on Goito, though this was not known before the Clan’s arrival there.  Dispatched to the world were:
BETA GALAXY
Silver Keshik
13th Wolf Guards
352nd Wolf Assault
3rd Wolf Battle
12th Wolf Striker
IOTA GALAXY
2nd Wolf Lancers
8th Wolf Regulars
12th Wolf Regulars
18th Wolf Regulars
51st Garrison
NAVAL SUPPORT
CWS Hawker                      (Sovetskii Soyuz)
CWS Dire Wolf                   (Sovetskii Soyuz)
CWS Green Lantern         (Congress)
CWS Kerensky's Pride     (Congress)
CWS Rogue                         (Congress)
 
The Ghost Bear forces, apart from their naval cover were in relatively good condition, though the prospect of facing a fresh foe whilst in the midst of battle would put great pressure on Tau Galaxy
TAU GALAXY
1st Bear Regulars                                             (82%)
2nd Bear Regulars                                            (64%)
9th Bear PGC                                                     (77%)
18th Bear PGC                                                   (85%)
37th Bear PGC                                                   (77%)
GOITO PGG
1st Goito PGC                                                    (Destroyed)
2nd Goito PGC                                                  (Destroyed)
NAVAL SUPPORT
CGB Bear's Den                 (Black Lion)         (46%)
CGB Icepick                         (Lola III)                (Destroyed)
CGB Ursine Boatman     (Volga) (Destroyed)
 
Clan Smoke Jaguar was in the worst position on world, but Jaguar pride, though slowly being moderated by Khan Howell’s polices would not allow for their withdrawal in the face of the Wolves.
DELTA GALAXY
Skyriders Keshik                                               (75%)
3rd Jaguar Cavaliers                                        (67%)
3rd Jaguar Assault                                            (67%)
75th Jaguar Assault                                         (50%)
19th Jaguar Striker                                           (75%)
NAVAL SUPPORT
CSJ Violent End                 (Aegis)                  (Crippled and captured)
CSJ Obsidian                       (McKenna) (Destroyed)
CSK Dark Shadow             (McKenna) (Destroyed)
 
Like Alshain, the state of the CGB Bear's Den allowed the Wolves to rapidly secure the vessel and the barely operational CSJ Violent End that it was docked with and stabilising, with little damage suffered by the Wolf fleet.

Khan Pryde decided early that both Clans would need to be struck by the Wolves to show the intent of the Clan of Kerensky and its strength.  Beta Galaxy was dispatched to land behind the Smoke Jaguars and Iota Galaxy to face the Bear’s Tau Galaxy.  The previously warring Clans were at a disadvantage as both needed to keep an eye on the other as they turned to face the Wolves.

Beta Galaxy, led by the 13^th Guards and 352^nd Assault Cluster tore apart the first line of Jaguar defence, gutting and taking as isorla the remains of the 3^rd and 75^th Jaguar Assault Clusters.  By the time Hang Mehta realised the Bears had issues of their own with the Wolves and cared not for what his Jaguars were doing, it was too late. The remaining three clusters, now at less than 50% strength withdrew from the field, allowing Beta to begin threatening the rear of the Bear’s Tau Galaxy.

Meanwhile, Tau Galaxy was fighting desperately against a full front advance by Iota Galaxy, with only the 9^th PGC able to hold its ground, where both the 8^th and 12^th Wolf Regulars had been unable to break the defence. However, the appearance of Beta Galaxy in the Ghost Bear rear areas spelt the end of the defence, but all five Bear Clusters managed to break contact on the night of the 17^th during intense storms and escape.  The Wolf fleet, still chasing Jaguars, was unable to interdict the fleeing Bears.
By the end of fighting on the world, Clan Ghost Bear had lost three WarShips and over 60% of its forces, though all five Clusters retreated in good order.  Clan Smoke Jaguar lost three WarShips as well, two Clusters entirely and nearly 75% of the troops deployed to the world.  For Clan Wolf, Goito was not as costly as it could have been, with no WarShips lost, two captured and losses to ground forces running to 25%. Clan Wolf secured eight OmniMech and OmniFighter lines and instead of dispatching Ghost Bears to the Steel Viper border, rounded up the remains of the two Jaguar Assault Clusters and other survivors into the 1^st Wolf Cavaliers and dispatched them to guard the border as well.
 
Thule Phase – 2
Thule was the final target on Clan Wolf’s list and dispatched to the world were:
DELTA GALAXY
Red Keshik
16th Wolf Guards
271st Wolf Assault
53rd Wolf Battle
2nd Wolf Striker
KAPPA GALAXY
1st Wolf Lancers
5th Wolf Regulars
7th Wolf Regulars
17th Wolf Regulars
112th Wolf Regulars
NAVAL SUPPORT
CWS Dagda                        (Cameron)
CWS Jerome Winson       (Liberator)
CWS Gauntlet                    (Liberator)
CWS Red Talon                  (Aegis)
CWS Black Talon               (Aegis)
CWS Hawk Eye                  (Aegis)
CWS White Fang              (Essex)
 
The Ghost Bears were confident in their defence, as they had dealt easily with the Jaguars and expected to do the same with Clan Wolf
PI GALAXY
23rd Bear PGC                   (69%)
29th Bear PGC                   (69%)
54th Bear PGC                   (77%)
5th Bear Phalanx              (75%)
13th Bear Phalanx            (81%)
Thule PGC                           (53%)
NAVAL SUPPORT
CGB Great Bear                                (Leviathan) (70%)
CGB White Claw               (Essex) (Destroyed)
CGB Yggdrasil                    (Carrack)              (Destroyed)
 
Clan Wolf jumped a strong fleet into Thule, but met the recently engaged CGB Great Bear whose crew was ready for additional action.  The fight was short and brutal, with the CGB Great Bear           a broken wreck after forty five minutes of constant fighting, refusing to strike and refusing to run.  The cost to Clan Wolf to bring down the Leviathan-class Battleship was the destruction of the CWS Dagda, CWS Gauntlet, CWS Hawk Eye and CWS White Fang and the ravaging of the CWS Red Talon and CWS Black Talon.  Only the CWS Jerome Winson was in any state to cover the landings following the battle.

Once the Wolf transports cleared the naval fight, both Galaxies landed and a proceeded to rip the defending Ghost Bears apart in revenge for the loss of so many Wolf ships.  With ten Clusters to face, the Bears had little hope as first the 23^rd and then the 54^th PGC’s were swarmed under.  The rear guard actions of the planetary PGC’s were not enough to prevent heavy damage to the 5^th and 13^th Phalanx Clusters and only 29^th PGC lifted off in any semblance of order.

Clan Wolf, apart from losing four WarShips, lost only 15% of the force dispatched, whilst the Bears left the world with only 22% of the world’s original defenders and lost their entire Naval Star.  Clan Wolf’s victory netted them the last of Clan Ghost Bear’s industrial facilities in the Inner Sphere, which included another three OmniMech lines.  An additional half Cluster of resuscitated Bears was sent to the Steel Viper border, where with excess units from the other three Clusters they formed the 4^th Wolf Uhlans.
 
Phase 2 Summary
The later part of October saw the gutting of some of Clan Ghost Bears finest units and the loss of the entirety of their heavy military industry and most of their fleet.  Clan Ghost Bear lost nearly 80% of all ground forces deployed to the four worlds, which included all of the planetary PGC’s and 70% of the line troops engaged.  Sixteen clusters were total losses and the Touman was reduced by nearly a third. Though devastating in itself, the loss of all major production and supply depots meant that there was no way for the Ghost Bears to recover the losses.  Only one path remained for Clan Ghost Bear and that was to live or die in a last desperate attempt to liberate the fallen worlds.

Clan Smoke Jaguar suffered additional losses, with two further Clusters destroyed and their losses rising to 44% of those engaged and over 22% of the Touman.  Clan Smoke Jaguar could recover, but withdrew to initially lick its wounds a seek targets of opportunity as the Bears struggled for their lives against Clan Wolf.

Clan Wolf on the other hand emerged from October as the masters of the Occupation Zones, their industry swollen by 80% for ground forces and 30-50% for orbital production.  Six WarShips were lost, but five were captured, one being a Bear prize taken from the Jaguars, and two of the captured vessels were Leviathan-class Battleships. Five Clusters of troops were pressed into service, both a pragmatic use of troops and a desperately needed measure to shore up the Steel Viper border areas.

Immediate pressures began to build on all three Clans as November dawned.  For Clan Ghost Bear, the survival of the Clan was at stake and numerous units began to move towards the four worlds, though coordination was lacking and only a single heavily damaged WarShip remained as an escort.

Clan Smoke Jaguar, despite its gamble gained nothing and would need to move carefully, ensuring it could take what it could as the Bears struck back against Clan Wolf, whilst not exposing itself to Clan Nova Cat or the Draconis Combine.  Anti-reformers blamed Khan Howell’s polices, whilst reformers blamed hardliners for the failings.  Only outside pressures prevented the Jaguars turning on themselves.

For Clan Wolf, the prize had to be protected and additional territory secured.  Khan Kell’s declaration that no safcon was to be granted to any incoming assaults rubbed many the wrong way, his saKhan amongst them, but with Wolf troops moving to secure additional worlds, no effort could be spared in protecting their new prizes.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Abele on December 10, 2015, 07:55:14 AM

Sucks to be the Smoked Kittens (Plus ça change, plus c’est la même chose)
Sucks more to be the Bears.
As for the Wolves, I'm waiting for their comeuppance. The Karmic wheel eventually has to turn against them.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on December 23, 2015, 02:51:45 AM

-16-
19th of October, 3063
Palace of the Phoenix
Solaris City, Solaris VII

Kai Liao, that was his name now, though it was something that had been coming for some time, sat quietly pondering the ill winds of fate.  He was now Chancellor of the Capellan Confederation, as the remainder of his family were dead, crushed under the might of the FWLM as it suddenly cut the heart out of the realm.

Audacious move Thomas, but though the end may be nigh, it is not time to draw the curtains just yet.  You overextended yourself by redirecting your assaults out of the Terran Corridor so fast.  Your supply lines and transportation assets are in chaos and the game now hangs in the balance, though if rumour is true, you may have check mated me before I have even entered the game.

That thought, that the Confederation would die under his rule, and die quickly, was a bleak one, but one in which he found great solitude.


If you have communicated your plans to the Calderons, Centrellas and the thrice-dammed Davions, then it truly is over, as they will not miss a chance such as this.  It will be a feeding frenzy.  Still, I will meet my destiny there, as I have not found it here on Solaris, or on the Clan Front…I am death, my opponents always seem to know this.  I did not, until today, and my destiny now indicates that I must be reunited with myself, once I have reaped the souls I need to carry back to the grave.

He paused in his thinking for a moment, marvelling and just how peaceful that thought was for him, that in accepting death, he would become death and bring fear and destruction to the enemies of Capella as he drew his final breaths.


Footsteps sounded in the hall and he looked up from the padded bench at which he sat, nestled under a window that looked across Cathay to the Solaris River and the sprawling city of Solaris with its many arenas.  A man in a fine dark green suit entered, prostrated himself and waited.


“I think we can do away with the grovelling Kristoff, I am not my grandfather, or even my mother for that matter.  When alone together, behave as you always did and call me Kai”


The man stood, revealing a waxen complexion and red eyes.  Kristoff Belov was Kai’s personal Maskirovka aide and since news the fall of Sian, Sarna and Capella earlier that day, the likely head of the organisation.


“Of course…Kai.  I must admit, the last hours have been unusually taxing and more information continues to pour in.


Kai raised an eyebrow for Kristoff to continue talking and indicated to a chair to his left.  Kristoff moved and dropped into it.


“We have further news and can provide a somewhat coherent picture of what has happened in the last two weeks.  The Free Worlds hit every system in a triangle from Styk to Cory to Capella and Sarna.  Every system targeted fell, as the League hit with overwhelming force, with few troops escaping.  Two other axis of advance have also been identified, one that hit worlds encompassed by Fronde, Pella II and Sian and axis towards Betelgeuse.  The defenders of Sian fought to the last and the Palace was levelled with no survivors.  As the majority of our BattleMech forces were out of position along the forward areas of the Liao Commonality or deployed from St. Ives to Sirdar, there was little to oppose the assaults.  The Free Worlds League pulled off what can only be seen as a masterstroke, as our intelligence, communication, supply and transportation networks are shattered.


Kai leant back against the windowsill, Once upon a time, bringing such a report would have spelt the death of the messenger.  “We still have transports and supplies forward deployed with the troops in the Liao Commonality?”


“Yes, and also for Mech units stationed near the Capital for counter-strikes in the event of, well, this event.”
Kai smiled, “The end of the World you mean?”


Kristoff did not know what to say, and just shrugged.


Kai chuckled, “No need to answer that Kristoff.  How many regiments are available for immediate dispatch from Liao and its Commonality and around Sian?”


Belov thought for a moment, recalling data, “Near Liao, three Warrior Houses, six regular regiments and six mercenary commands.  Sian has one Warrior House and ten regular regiments ready within range.”
Kai nodded, “Not insignificant forces.  What of the FWLM on Capella and Sian?”


“On Sian, at least a dozen WarShips and eight Mech Regiments, along with a very large conventional force.  Capella has only four WarShips, all in poor condition, as our cruisers and other units inflicted heavy damage before falling.  On the ground are only six Mech Regiments, supported by a Corps of conventional units, though we expect reinforcements to arrive there soon.”


Kai cocked his head and scratched his neck, “Very well, send orders to the Liao units to rendezvous over Sakhalin prior to a mass assault on Capella.  Send orders to the units around Sian to rendezvous in the outer system and strike only if possible, if not, they are to join me at Capella and Sian will be relieved later.”
Kristoff furiously scribbled some notes on a pad he withdrew from his jacket and asked, “What if the FWLM strikes forward again?”


Kai shrugged, “We cut off the main line of their advance and destroy them piecemeal, if not and they dig in and reinforce…we know where to find them and break tier main force.”


Kristoff made some more notes, “Do you wish to make a statement for the people?”


“Yes, later today, but before then I need to speak with Master Dao.”


Krisoff stood, “I’ll send her in and dispatch the orders.  The command circuit to Liao will be set up in time as well, though part of it is via commercial lines.  There is risk of capture.”


Kai looked hard at Kristoff, unsettling the man, “Risk is risk, this is measured risk and we take it.  I must lead the regiments back to Capella and Sian.”


“Of course.”  Kristoff bowed, turned and strode out of the room into the corridor.


Kai sat quietly on his bench as he waited for Master Dao, his Master Sword, the position he had created on Solaris to honour the top Capellan Champion, aside from himself.  Master Dao, formerly known as Cassandra Esh, would be Champion if not for Kai, yet bore no grudge, hence her elevation to the position, above stable feuding, a position that aimed to inspire, lead and improve all Capellan MechWarriors on Solaris VII.


The Confederation burns…how much force has the League expended?  If I can break them on Capella and then Sian, and I can, then the assault collapses.  After that, the potential for counter-attack exists, though it will be a short one, considering the losses sustained, especially so if other nations try to see what they can take.  All supposition, as I have to get past their WarShips…

Kai pulled a datapad from his coat and accessed the Palace network, looking for files on the naval engagements recently fought.


Capella, defended by only two cruisers and a destroyer and an air regiment, yet we broke the squadron sent against the world.  An Eagle and an Impavido gone, a Thera, a Black Lion and two Corvettes heavily damaged or temporarily disabled due to combat.  Their vessels are weak, though by looking at Sian one might think otherwise, though there fourteen WarShips swarmed two, still, the FWLN ships over Sian were stung.

Kai sat back and closed his eyes, That’s the key then, break their thin-skinned ships and we get to the ground.  From there I have to control the enraged beast that will be the CCAF, but such a controlled tempest will rip apart what the League can offer.  They are not battle hardened and every campaign this century that they have been in they withdrew from when the fighting got too hard.  And this fighting will be hard…there can be no prisoners and no mercy, the League must be punished.  Our enemies must learn to fear the righteous fury of Capella awakened, otherwise our legacy will end.

A polite knock at the door broke his train of thought as his Master Dao arrived, but did not bow, as per similar instructions to what he had given Kristoff.


Kai looked to the lean and hard figure of his chief fighter and beckoned her across, “You have been updated on events?” he asked simply


“Yes”, Cassandra answered, never one for more words than were necessary.


“Good.  What chance is there of mobilising a Battalion of the finest Capellan duellists on Solaris VII to accompany me back to Capella and Sian?”


“There is no “chance”, they will simply do it.  Cathay is enraged and there is fighting in the streets.  We have had pledges of support from eleven stables to date and sixty five additional individual offers.”


Kai was quietly impressed, “We can only take forty, including you and I.  I expect you have a preferred list of those who would accompany us?”


“Yes I do, though some have not answered the call, they are no longer Capellan and I will deal with them on our return.”


Kai smiled and the cold hardness and statement of future fact, A killer like me.  “Very well, assemble a battalion of Capellan Warriors at the spaceport in twenty four hours, we head for Liao and then Capella with the CCAF at our back.  You shall command them and they will be known as the Tianlong Battalion and the Celestial Dragons will lead the Capellan soldiers back to reclaim what is ours.[size=78%]”[/size]


Master Esh’s eyes came alight at the name of her unit, “Tianlong, you honour us.”


“We need an avatar to rally to Master Dao,” he replied, “Tianlong will be it.”


There was silence for a moment, “Upon what Mech will you place your future, Legend Killer, Yen-lo-Wang or Yu Di?”


Kai stood and looked out over the city, considering what Mech he would take with him into battle. It is time to create my own legend, but the others have their uses too.


“Bring all three, though I’ll ride Yu Di.  You can have Legend Killer as your own, should you wish it and your XO will ride Yen-lo-Wang.  We will bring all our symbols with us for this crusade of revelation.”


Cassandra bowed low, despite orders to the contrary, “I will be honoured to ride Legend Killer.  But why Yu Di?”


“I rode it for the first time only days ago and I felt as one with it like no other Mech before.  The work that our engineers undertook at mother’s request was extraordinary and Yu Di is truly fit for a Chancellor.”


Kai mused on his new Mech, a stock YHU-9G Yu Huang, completely upgraded as the YHU-21X to Clan spec, at staggering expense.  The engine, heat sinks, armour and structure were all of Clan technology, with all the weaponry upgraded as well and an Extended Range Large Laser Small Laser added for good measure, along with additional heat sinks.  The Mech was a terror, and quick for an Assault Mech as well, which surprised him, as he was used to lighter machines, however, in the campaign to come, he would need the longevity of the big design and its firepower, along with the fear it could inspire.


“Go now Master Dao, we have much to do before our departure.”

-17-
28th of November, 3063
Capella Prime
Capella, Free Worlds League

Kai sat on the foot of Yu Di, exhausted from the last two weeks of fighting, but more exhausted from the news he had received.  So close…this becomes an almost impossible task now.  Too many enemies, too few soldiers with which to counter them.  We came so close and the difference was a conventional unit of the League, the 48th Division, the one unit we broke upon and could not break.


Kai thought back over the fighting of the previous two weeks and beyond.  Over Sakhalin he had assembled the Tianlong, Houses Daidachi, Hiritsu ad Ma-Tsu-Kai, the Dynasty and Holdfast Guards of the Capellan Hussars, the 2nd Regiment of McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry, Laurel’s Legion, the Remshield Dragoons and Harloc Raiders.  With them came mercenaries as well, the 51st Dark Panzer Jaegers, Blanc’s Coyotes, Crimson Crusaders, Devil’s Brigade and air cover from Hell's Black Aces, all led by Wolf Dragoon’s Gamma Regiment.  Fifteen Mech regiments and their support represented one of the most powerful forces ever assembled by the Confederation. 

The jump in was the first critical step and it was executed perfectly.  Scouting indicated that the FWLN had spread its fleet units out to cover all approaches and Hells Black Aces, along with Dragoon and Capellan Hussar pilots, swarmed ship after ship in succession.  Of the nine WarShips, three blew up, three were crippled and left combat ineffective, two more were heavily damaged an only a single Agamemnon managed to gather what remained of the fleet together before pulling back as the main Capellan force jumped in.


Combat drops by the Tianlong,  2nd MAC and the Warrior Houses secured the drop zones and broke the 4th Oriente Hussars and their support as they moved to oppose the landing, with Kai leading from the front.


That’s were the legend building began.  Yu Di, bringing death to the foes of Capella.  My connection with Yu di is uncanny and his firepower was unexpected, but since then, I have hardly been hit and few have weathered the power I can deliver.

Since he landed, Kai had accounted for 27 Mech kills and twice that number of tanks and armoured vehicles.  His tech crew had begun attaching black and white streamers to his Mech for each kill, the former for Mech, the latter for tanks, so that Yu Di now appeared to be wreathed in a swirling black and white halo.
It all adds to the effect and seems to unsettle the Leaguers, as does the Tianlong paint scheme of swirling black and white.

The dualists were not one for open country fighting, though once they were within the city limits of Capella Prime, they had become an unholy terror, tearing through League units as fighting broke down into the small unit and individual combats that marked fighting in such a massive metropolis.  The 15th and 25th Marik Militias has learnt the hard way that facing the Tianlong was dangerous, but what was more dangerous was letting the Warrior Houses in behind them.  Both regiments broke and the Capellans then fell on the second line of the League forces, consisting of two conventional Divisions and a regiment of the Dismal Disinherited.  Tianlong led again, this time with mercenary battalions in company, with Gamma Regiment at the fore.  By the end of the first week, half of Capella Prime was retaken and the FWLM was reeling, though the CCAF stayed close, to prevent orbital bombardment.


The 11th Free Worlds Legionnaires, along with the Gryphons Regiment and the remnants of the Marik Militia and Oriente Hussars dug in behind the slaughter of the conventional forces and slowed the Capellan advance.  They fought a gruelling series of engagements over the course of six days as Kai drove towards the primary spaceport in an attempt to cut the FWLM off from easy resupply and escape.  The CCAF made ground at a heavy cost, with the League troops fighting for their very survival, nevertheless, the CCAF broke through behind the advance of the 2nd MAC and raced for the space port, where the last line of resistance lay.


The FWLM 48th Division, six mechanised infantry regiments and two light and one heavy tank regiment had dug themselves in for a month and laced the spaceport approaches with interlocking fields of fire, traps and fortifications.  The exhausted Capellan troops hit the 48th’s lines and stopped cold, giving the FWLM Mech Regiments time to reform and counter-attack.  Though a setback normally, within hours the failure to take the space port became critical, as transports carrying over a dozen fresh FWLM regiments and mercenaries began emerging at pirate point close to the world, escorted in by fresh WarShips.


Kai could do nothing but fall back, though local counter attacks by both tired and fresh League troops were brutally repulsed.  The League regiments were continuing to land and broadcast word of happening from off Capella.


You think we will break with this news…now we know where we are to die we can face you without fear.  Capella will become a world of sorrow for you.

The League commander broadcast on open channels that the assault on Sian had no just been driven off, but annihilated.  What Kai could make out was that the strike commander had disobeyed his orders, not out of spite, but out of rage over the fall of Sian.  The few troops that had made it past the League WarShips were wiped out on the ground. 


Ten regiments gone.  They would have saved Capella if my orders were followed.  Proves the Marik’s point that I am not a “real” Chancellor, not that it matters now.

Further reports were happily shared over open channels and they described the final nails in the coffin of the Confederation.  The real issue was the assault on St. Ives, where the Capellan state was desperately trying to reconstitute itself.  What few high officials were left had gathered there, only to see the AFFC land in force.  With the CCAF’s command and control functions now shattered beyond recovery, there was little that could be done for the world.  The Federated Commonwealth had also begun a general advance, though their lack of troops in theatre was slowing their progress, as were several sharp defeats by well led Capellan units.
 
That’s true right across the war.  Had we faced only one opponent, we could have stopped them.  But then if Aunt Romano had a dick, she would be my uncle. He chuckled at the thought.


It was not only Davion units crossing the border, as Taurian and Canopian forces began landing on the Rimward worlds of the Confederation, though not in the numbers of the League or the Davions, the assaults would pin the last reserves of the Confederation in place and prevent any rump state forming.


This finishes what the 4th War started.  We never really recovered from that and spat in too many faces, believing in our legend more than our reality.

Kai leant back against Yu Din, Time to make hard decisions I suppose.  “GENERAL TYRELL!”  Kai yelled, calling to the commander of Wolf’s Dragoons Gamma Regiment.  Though actually a Colonel, Kai called him General, as he had appointed him to coordinate the forces of the six Capellan mercenary commands.


The hard faced Dragoon was fifty meters away across the shattered park in which elements of the CCAF were resting.  He looked over, nodded, dismissed those around him and strode over, no fatigue showing in his purposeful walk.


“Chancellor?” has asked as he came close to Kai’s seat and stood at parade rest.


Kai cut to the chase “General Tyrell, what do you estimate our chances on world to be?”


Blunt and forthright, the General shot back quickly, “To win, none at all, to live, slim to none.”


Kai closed his eyes and nodded, “You thoughts echo my own General.”


There was silence for a time.


“General, you are to assemble the mercenary units and board transports for Outreach.  I will communicate with the League forces to allow you passage out of the war zone.  You are not of Capella and there is no need for you all to die here, your service to date has been enough and I release you.”


Tyrell began speaking, but Kai held his hand up.  “This is not a point for discussion General.”


The man stood staring at Kai and then saluted, “We won’t forget this.  You will live in out Remembrance forever, both as the ultimate warrior and as the saviour of Gamma.”


Kai nodded, “Be ready to move in an hour General.”


Kai stood and began climbing towards his cockpit to contact the League commander.


Now, with the non-essential pieces off the board, we can do what we came here to do, I and my Capellan troops, we can make Capella a place of terror for the League.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on December 26, 2015, 05:03:00 AM

-18-
14th of December, 3063
FCS Federated Commonwealth
Gibbs, Donegal March, Federated Commonwealth

Victor Steiner-Davion, Archon-Prince of the Federated Commonwealth was in the semi-dress uniform of the 10th Lyran Guards and over the top of the uniform was a dark, almost black coat, one which he had been given by his sister, Yvonne.  He loved the coat, as it fitted him well, but it was the intricate beauty of the inlay and the smooth feel of the coat lining that he liked most, something others had no idea of.  He also secretly liked the moniker it had earned him, as with any powerful leader, the ego grew over time, no matter the discipline of the man in which it grew.  Not many, but a growing number were referring to him, due to the coat, as the Black Prince of the Federated Commonwealth, a name that came from one of the Tharkad tabloids, but one that was spreading.  He liked it and he knew why he liked it and it did not bother him in the slightest.

Victor tuned back into the conversation. “Sorry Admiral, could you repeat yourself?”
“Certainly Sire,” said Admiral Mark Singh.  The huge dark skinned Admiral, who commanded the Gibbs Naval Station was easily 140kg of prime, well fed and pampered Lyran Admiral, but pivoted easily in his mag boots before continuing.  “The former CSV Dark Asp , a Nightlord-class Battleship masses 1.2 megatons, and despite the damage she took over Beta VII before striking her colours, can still bring about a quarter of her very formidable firepower to bear.”

Victor looked around the cargo bay they were standing in, which was massive and marked with hasty patchwork repairs to seal several breaches where the fire from FCN WarShips had pierced her hull. 

“Can we get this beast operational Admiral?”

The Admiral shook his bald head, “Not without assistance sir.  There is too much Clan technology in this ship for us to be able to fabricate new parts.  It’s part of the reason that Admiral Hood wanted me to speak to you sir.  We have two options: We can either scrap the ship for parts and research; or trade with Clan Diamond Shark for what we need, the latter the fleet’s preferred option.  As you can see, we have already given here a preliminary name and more importantly, the Sharks have already approached us, since we weren’t shy about advertising our catch.”

Victor smiled at the Admiral, “Yes, I wanted to make sure all and sundry knew what we had taken from the Vipers.  I like the name though.  What will it cost to bring her back to operational status?”

“Estimates are around 3.8 Billion Kroner, especially with the deal the Sharks have offered.”
Victor raised his eyebrows, “That is no small amount of coin there Admiral.”

“No sir it is not.  However, it’s a steal at the price and cheaper than building a Mjolnir from scratch.  Additionally, she would be the Fleet Flag, as her command facilities are first rate.”
“My personal ride eh Admiral? How does it compare to the Mjolnir?”

“Faster and better at the helm, though with only two-thirds combat power of the Mjolnir and similar ratio in overall staying power.  Her real advantage is this bay and the next.  She can carry 100 Mechs and we want to modify her to take a full RCT and an additional Fighter Regiment.  She would be similar to the old McKenna’s as a one ship task force and command vessel.”

Victor was impressed, “A solid, ambitious and impressive plan Admiral, how long would it take to make happen?”

“If we put everything we have here into it, especially once Emden clears her dock and launches in March and then we pay the price the Sharks are asking, December of this year.”

“That soon?”  Victor asked in a surprised voice?

“Yes Sire, she is structurally sound, just beaten down a fair bit.  We need to cast new armour, replace damaged weapons, refit the cargo bay, recondition the engines and fix all the blown out systems, but were lucky in that we beat her without breaking her and the crew came with her.”

“The crew, really?”

“Yes Sire, technicians and warriors.  They consider themselves members of the FCN now and the former Technician Caste members are all a little giddy at the fact they are considered Warriors in our eyes.  We have had to move most of the Warrior Castemen on, as the Viper Warriors are all a bit twitchy and will take longer to adjust.”

Victor smiled, “Wonders will never cease Admiral.  I think I can agree with what you and Admiral Hood propose.”

“Yes Sire.”  The Admiral beamed back at him.  “Now, if you would permit me to show the command facilities, they are first rate and we have them set up and ready for the conference.”

Victor followed the Admiral to a lift, with a small group of aides following behind.  The lift moved smoothly along, depositing the group on the command deck.  The command deck was large, dominated in the middle by a huge holotank, which already showed the Field Marshals of the Federated Commonwealth’s Marches, the State Commanders and Fleet Admiral Hood.  Morgan Hasek-Davion stood within the tank and announced to the assembly “Archon-Prince Steiner Davion has arrived, this conference of the Operational Command is now in session.”

The Operational Command of the AFFC was subordinate to the High Command, but focused on operational activities of the AFFC’s forces, not on its administration.  It comprised the highest ranked officers who could direct forces to battle and was another modification that Victor had made to the AFFC.

He walked down between the many data terminals that were arranged around the tank in circular rows, and returned the salute Morgan gave him, before turning to address the assembled officers.

“Marshals, welcome.  I must apologise for the setting each of you is sitting in, all in orbit as they are, or at jump points, we needed security when we built our new toy.”  Victor smiled, Father’s greatest ambition realised today…he never saw the first fruits of his labour, but it serves us well now.

Curiosity was evident in the eyes of several commanders as Victor spoke, as each had been ushered into a special conference room managed by the Department of Military Communication and Research.  No aides and no attendants were present for the Field Marshalls; only a junior officer of the DMCR (pronounced dumker) was with each.  Several such officers were aboard the Federated Commonwealth as well, in the cargo bay and here on the Command Deck.

“Ladies and Gentlemen, you are currently connected over a HPG network outside of the control of ComStar.”

The initial silence as deafening, then questions from every commander floating around him poured over the system.  He held up his hands for silence, and everyone settled down, barring Morgan, Jackson Davion, Arden Sortek and Nondi Steiner, all of whom were aware of the project.

“Please, if you give me a moment, I will bring you up to speed.  However, it must be noted that outside of the DMCR, you are the only people cleared for this information.  Any leaks and you will be manning the forts on the Coventry Line.”  He paused, then continued, “The DCMR was set up in conjunction with the work done at the NAIS from 3016 into FTL communications, all based on the cache we took from Halstead Station in 3012.  You will all be familiar with our Black Boxes, however, they were only one facet of the research undertaken by the NAIS and DMCR and a strong cover for the primary aim – that of developing our own Hyper Pulse Generator’s for an Federated Commonwealth faster than light communications system.”

Looks ranging from sheer joy to disbelief were evident across the faces of those watching him, I felt the same way myself when I found out.

“Work on Project SHERLOCK continued, primarily as research, and continued through until 3035, meanwhile the Black Boxes were developed separately and have served admirably since their introduction.  The next eleven years, though also continuing research, aimed at systems and parts development, and led us down paths that the original researchers must have overlooked.  As I have been told by the NAIS, we started with an incomplete set of texts and data from Halstead Station, which led our scientists and technicians down a slightly different route from earlier development.  By the time we began hand making the first HPG, we had designed a system that was approximately five times larger than those deployed by ComStar, from what limited data we have of their technology, but it was vastly more efficient in its power use, by two orders of magnitude.”

Quizzical looks, greeted his last statement, as few really understood what was involved in FTL communication.  “This means that conversations like this one are both technically complicated and power hungry for ComStar, however, for DMCR, with the power requirements of our systems, we can set up links like this for a fraction of the cost.  Though of course the material set up costs are greater and the facilities are a little on the conspicuous side.  However, ladies and gentlemen, we have ComStar by the balls, hence the need for secrecy.”

“How many HPG’s do we have?”  This from Field Marshal James Ellis of the Skye March.

“Forty two are currently operational, with one here on Federated Commonwealth and two more ready to deploy.  The first HPG went operational in 3056, after ten years of building and testing, with a second in 3057.  Production has slowly been climbing; we built twelve last year, though we do not expect to be able to cover every world in the FedCom until the late in the 3070s.  In the meantime, we have created a trunk network, with the main line running from New Avalon to Tharkad and from each capital to each March command centre.  We will then aim to tie in all major command and industrial worlds.  That will be, in essence, our First Circuit, with worlds off those lines getting lesser systems.  With this system, from now on, the entire FC command can be in communication within minutes, with total communication security.”

That thought sunk in across the room.  With such security within its own borders, the aims and movements of the Federated Commonwealth would become opaque to its foes.

“And security for the system sire?”  From his commander in the Capellan March, Leah Thomas.

“You’re sitting on it.  Each facility is wired to detonate a one-megaton device if the system you are in falls, or the core is tampered with or removed without proper authorisation.  Each station is part of the JumpShip command circuits we control, and you are in the restricted sections of those stations, where we handle transfers of Clan equipment, where intelligence and diplomatic staff stay and where we keep other people out of routinely, essentially hiding in plain sight behind our other secrets.”

A few Generals moved uncomfortably in their seats at the thought of sitting a hot nuclear device.  What they don’t know, is that the Archon-Prince can remote detonate any of them, both as a failsafe if the destruct system is compromised and as a way to remove those who might act on dreams of independence in the future.

“So, Marshals, I would like to move to other topics now, as DMCR will provide a fuller briefing to each of you once our conference is complete.  I have asked General Travena to provide a brief update on the Clans, as he is recognised as our foremost expert on them.  General?”

Victor turned slightly to his right and beckoned the General forward, as he had entered the room shortly after Victor and stood with his aides.

The tall, dark haired General moved forward into the holotank as Victor and Morgan took seats.
“Thankyou sire. “  He looked up, “As you are all aware, we have been receiving unusual reports about Clan activity and Clan behaviour since April of last year, though for many months we had only scanty evidence taken from Ice Hellions we captured when we repulsed their invasion.  Since then, we have managed to capture a few Hell’s Horsemen and now enough Steel Vipers to gain a better understanding of what has the Clans so agitated.  It would appear that the Clans have suffered a Civil War of unprecedented size, which has sundered those in the Inner Sphere from their bases in the Homeworlds.  The Clans remaining in the Homeworlds have total control of those systems, though each of the Clans in the Inner Sphere seems to have extracted materials, troops and civilians.”

“Does this mean the bastards are on their last legs?”  Asked Morgan Kell, current commander of the Tamar March, “It would explain the Steel Vipers torpor when we attacked them.”

“Partly,” answer Travena, “Some of the Clans seem to have dealt with the change better than others.  The Ice Hellions have disappeared back into the Periphery and there is rumour of two Clans fighting out towards Chainlaine, but we don’t know who the second is.  Clan Wolf and Smoke Jaguar turned on the Ghost Bears and are effectively dismembering them, though the Nova Cats and DCMS are striking at the Jaguars, who have apparently suffered serious reversals in the Bear campaign.  The Nova Cats have also taken additional systems from the Combine along the Periphery, apparently with troops arriving from Clan Space, in a similar fashion to what the Hell’s Horses are doing to us.”

“I was sure we had then stopped when we drove off the Hellions!  It would explain their renewed attacks though.”  Field Marshall Marc Kostic said grumpily over crossed arms.

“Yes Field Marshall it would.  When you broke their Gamma Galaxy, they pulled back, reorganised in October, as their forces from the Homeworlds arrived, and then struck out towards industrial targets.  It is this last point that interests us the most, as most Clans are focusing efforts around securing systems with large military-industrial potential.  We think that they are at the end of their logistical capability and need to quickly secure new facilities to replace those lost in the Homeworlds.  If we can draw the fighting out, we will exhaust them before they can become firmly entrenched, hence our full support of Field Marshall Kostic’s Coventry Line plan.”

“So lad,” said the hatchet faced Nondi Steiner, “You think the Clans are beatable now?”

“Yes Ma’am, more so than at any other time, apart from Clan Wolf that is, they are going from strength to strength and have just moved their capital to Rasalhague.  We believe they are trying to tempt the Republic rump to join them as well.”

“Best invade then and prevent that.”

Travena responded quickly, “That would risk a war with the Wolves over six worlds, when we have two large scale conflicts to deal with already Ma’am.”

Nondi Steiner frowned, “Perhaps, still, I don’t want to see them getting any closer to the Terran Corridor.”

“Yes Ma’am.”

Before the conversation could continue, Victor stood, “Thankyou General.  I would like to move onto operational matters before coming back to the Clans if we need to later.”  Travena nodded and took a seat.

“First I’d like to hear from the Navy and what you have been up to Fleet Admiral Hood?”

Admiral Hood, currently at Alarion and sitting next to General Fay Nichols, smiled brightly, something that those who knew the Admiral seldom saw, as she was generally known as a hard and stern taskmaster and one who had built the FCN’s new WarShip capability. 

“We have tested your fleet in battle twice now sire and found nothing to be notably lacking.”  General smiles and nods at this around the room.  “In October, the Avalon-class cruiser FCS Melissa Davion and two Fox-class Corvettes, the FCS Indomitable and FCS Bryceland escorted forces to the Beta VII system.  In November, the CSV Dark Asp, a Nightlord-class Battleship, accompanied Steel Viper reinforcements in system.  Our squadron moved to engage, and through superior tactics and staying power across the squadron, dealt heavy damage to the Viper ship and forced her to strike.  We boarded the vessel, took control, and jumped it out of the system.  Indomitable took heavy damage, but was still operable and the other sips took moderate damage.  This first real engagement by the FCN could only be considered a huge success.  Building upon our victory, this month, as our forces jumped into Twycross, the above vessels were joined by the Mjolnir-class FCS Yggdrasil and the Fox-class FCS Fox and FCS Robert Marsden.  Over the Viper capital they faced one of that Clan’s two naval groups, which consisted of Cameron, Sovetskii Soyuz, Congress and Fredesa.  The Mjolnir-class more than proved itself over Twycross, letting the AFFC get on world without loss.  Though we lost the Indomitable, we knocked out all four Viper ships and recovered the Cruiser and Battlecruiser, though they are next to crippled, will take much to reinstate and they may be better for parts.  Only Fox and Yggdrasil are in a good enough state to remain in system, the other vessels are on their way to Alarion and Gibbs for repairs.”

Victor spoke, “So Admiral, what does this tell us?”

“Our doctrine, both tactical and in ship design is solid.”

“How so?”

The Admiral shrugged, “Our ships are built to last and blast.  SLDF ships and to a lesser extent the Clan vessels, are lightly armoured one trick ponies, designed to act as part of large taskforces.  The Clan fleets are generally too small to make up for the deficiencies of each design.  The FWLM has the same problem, based on their recent losses and the DCMS may face it as well, though the Capellans surely did not with their Cruisers.  Though it takes us longer to build each ship, though ton for ton, they are better vessels.  We also act tight – stay together – and operate in close conjunction with fighters, Droppers and marines, just like a floating RCT.  Cut the heart out of the enemy formation and them mop up the pieces in detail.”

Victor looked warmly at Admiral Hood, “Five to one losses so far Admiral are, if I remember my naval history, pretty good.  You have my thanks and support for your plans confirmed.”  He paused as the Admiral bobbed her head in response, “How is fleet strength and construction coming?”  He asked to finish.

“We have the Nightlord, Cameron and Sovetskii Soyuz we took from the Vipers, but only the former, which you are currently on, is really worth the effort to restore and modify.  The FCN has two Mjolnir, seven Avalon, three Durandel and twenty-one Fox, for a total of thirty-three vessels.  In construction are two each of the Mjolnir, Avalon, Emden and Fox and three Durandel.  We also have plans to switch Fox production over to the Fox-II once the current build ends and start building New Syrtis carriers and Robinson-II class transports within two years.  We might also restart production of the Mako and/or Tharkad within five years, to properly fill out the fleet, but that’s not confirmed as yet.

Victor stood, “Thankyou Admiral Hood.  Now to the state of our Marches.  Field Marshall Nichols, how fares Alarion?”

Attention moved to the General next to Admiral Hood, with Fay Nichols possessing a far more open and friendly face than the Admiral who had just spoken.  “Yes Sire.  Alarion has been quiet since the League’s Circinus campaign that ended the Marian War.  Once they swung across the border to hit Madiun and Son Hoa, we were able to bring in troops from Teyvareb and Buena to reinforce Son Hoa, rotating units off the world to Teyvareb as needed for rest.  We were able to outlast the League and they gave up the attempt, though we are keeping forty precent of all March troops close to Circinus now.  We could use more, like everyone here,” chuckles from the others met her comment, “but we do understand there are higher priorities at the moment.”

Victor smiled wryly in agreement, raising an eyebrow, “Thankyou Field Marshall Nichols, for your report, honesty and understanding of the larger picture, some of which Field Marshall Kostic will now provide.”  Victor turned to his right to the image of the Field Marshall of the Coventry March, whose red hair was short and curly and framed a dark expression.

“Certainly sire.”  He looked up and around.  “We covered a little of this before.  When the Hellions and Horses attacked, we saw the Hellions off by August of last year and at the same time apparently halted the Horses, though the reasons for that halt were more complex than we first realised.  We began contingency planning at that point to protect Tharkad and the assets near Coventry by starting construction of the Coventry Line, the fortification of systems from Chhaprauli to Windsor and the worlds behind them to Storfors, Loxley and Coventry.  Heavy defences were built and the militia were reinforced.  Mobile units, regiments and RCT’s were located along the line, with conventional troops behind them and reserves on Coventry.  In the event of a new Horses attack, units would fall immediately back on the line, hence the movement of command centres from Qantir and Australia to Chhaprauli and Storfors.  This also gave a strong base for planning a full counter-offensive if the Horses stayed in place.  Unfortunately, they did not, moving in reduced Galaxy strength of approximately three Clusters against a series of worlds in November, with an axis towards Coventry.  We fell back and they hit the line at Abbadiyah this month.  Fighting has been brutal, but the fort and the militia have held, though their Alpha Galaxy drove off the mobile forces consisting of the 1st FedCom Jaegers, 5th Lyran Guards RCT and Alarion AMM.  We are preparing to counter-attack to keep them pinned there and expect weaker attacks against the rest of the line.  Our aim is to bog them down and exhaust their supplies and then drive them back to Finmark, though that could take a year or more.  Admiral Hood has also been good enough to station a squadron over Coventry, which should be enough, considering the Horses lack of naval assets.”

“How certain are you of success?”  Asked Jackson Davion, with no trace of emotion in his voice.

“Before the attacks this month, ninety precent.  After the ferocity of their Alpha Galaxies assault, I’d modify that to two in three.  It’s their best force, the other task forces being smaller, so we should be able to hold them, but if they flank us – doubtful – a somehow bull through, we will be in real trouble.”

“Tharkad?”  Said Davion

“Possibly.”  Answered Kostic.

“Then we best stop them.”  Said Victor.  “You’re priority one for troops and supplies.”

“Thankyou sire.”

Victor turned again, “And in the campaign that most affects you, we have Grand Duke Morgan Kell leading the fight in Tamar against the Steel Vipers.  Grand Duke Kell?”

The old mercenary looked seriously at Victor, “Archon-Prince, I’ll spare you a rehash of the naval war, though my thanks go to Admiral Hood, without the FCN, we would not have done what we have.”

“Thankyou Morgan.”  Said the Admiral.

“No thanks necessary Admiral, you did what you said you would.”  He paused, “We have been striking into the Viper OZ along two axis.  The first is aimed at Twycross, with the additional goal of drawing troops away from Erewhon, which succeeded somewhat and we struck in the Coreward regions of the OZ this month.  To date, we have liberated Beta VII, Blackjack, Goat Path, Malibu, Butler and Waldorf and Anywhere Coreward.  Initial advances were solid, though our forward rate has slowed considerably.  We are fighting on Erewhon, Somerset, Wotan and Twycross.  None of those fights are weighted much in our favour, though I suggest we push hard for one more month and then back off any fight we can’t win quickly.  Even if they counter, we have been strengthening our rear areas, so I am fairly confident we can hold much of what we have taken, especially considering their losses to date and the strength of our defences Rimward.  The Vipers are keeping a very wary eye on the Wolves, so I don’t expect a full scale advance coming at us.”

“No chance of breaking them?”  From Nondi Steiner.

He shook his head, “Even if we took Twycross, they still have a lot of strength and for now, having them between us and Clan Wolf is not an entirely bad thing.”

“Agreed right there Morgan.”  Said Morgan Hasek-Davion from his seat, with others nodding agreement.  “Clan Wolf is going from strength to strength and we need time to get our feet back under us before facing them.”

Victor looked over his shoulder at the Marshall of the AFFC as he answered the Grand Duke, “Alright Morgan,” he looked back, “continue operations as you see fit and withdraw from contested systems should progress be doubtful.”

“It will be so.”

Victor checked a list he held, “Field Marshall Zenger, Donegal?”

The blonde Field Marshall, who looked far too young for his position, sat up straighter.  “Sire, Donegal has little to add.  We are raising new units to support Coventry and acting as Admiral Hood’s forward base of operations.  Should, god forbid, the Coventry Line fail, we are making preparations to ensure the Richvale-Alma Alta line is a living hell for any Clansman that gets that far.”

“Thankyou Field Marshall.  How is Skye Field Marshall Ellis?”  Said Victor not looking up.

“Much of our force is deployed across to Field Marshall Steiner in Terra, though we have restructured of defence around Lyons after we nearly cut Dieron off last year and then withdrew.  The straight border from Ryde to Pike IV helps in that no end.  Solaris to Wyatt is a little weak for my mind, but with what we have a jump or two away and the Mariks off beating Capella to death, short term is solid.  Once Marik finishes and troops come back to standard garrisons, I’ll need 20% more force or risk losing key worlds piecemeal.”

“Nondi, any help you can give there?”  Asked Victor.

She shook her head, “Not with the Vipers and Horses draining so much away.  Jackson might.  Jackson?”

“Not really Nondi, not if we want a fair slice of Capella.” Answered her counterpart.

“General, much as I hate to say it, you’re on your own, but we might be able to lasso some mercs of Outreach for you in six months or so.”  This from Morgan Hasek-Davion.

“Thankyou Sir, we’ll make do until then and stay flexible.”

“We all better James, with all the chaos.”  Added Victor.  “Richard?”  He then looked to the commander of the Terran March who, as family, could return the familiarity.

“Pretty good Victor.  We have the corridor widened, but not as wide as it was is 3050.  Nanking fell, but we smacked the Mariks up on Oliver and Pollux and have secured most of what was left of the Liao Commonality that the League did not want, and are now doing the Capella Commonality.  They seem to be staying on their side of Thomas’s line, just as he stated they would.  Seems his letter was legitimate.”

Richard Steiner II referred to the letter sent by Thomas Marik to New Avalon, Taurus and Canopus IV, inviting each nation to “…a slice of the Capellan pie…”.  Marik intended to take the Sian Commonality in total and two thirds of Liao and Capella, leaving the rest, along with St. Ives to Davion and the Victoria Commonality to the Periphery.  It was smart, as it set limit, whilst ensuring that the other nations would face the bulk of Capellan Mech units, should they stay in place, which they partly did, except at Sian and Capella.

“We should end active operations by early March at the latest and be able to shift some forces to the Capellan or Skye Marches after June as needs, once we reorganise.”

“You’ve done well Richard,” Victor tossed of a little two fingered salute, “You have accomplished more than any of us and saved our link.”

“Just following orders Victor, never been much of a free thinker.”

There was a small series of good natured chuckles from the others, as since the reunification, the former Lyran loyalist had undergone something of a radical change, with some likening his new outlook as similar to the change that Frederick Steiner had undergone when he became Anastasias Focht.

“No Richard, you have done yourself, your mother, your House and nation proud.”  Even Nondi’s face lightened at the compliment.  “Onto the Draconis March then.”

“Don’t really need to Victor,” said James Sandoval, “apart from liberating Quentin with Field Marshall Steiner’s help, nothing of note.”  James Sandoval was still seething that the AFFC had withdrawn from other Combine worlds and again focused on the Confederation and Clans.  The only salve was the retaking of the massively important Mech facilities on the world of Quentin.

“Thankyou James.”  Victor answered in a cool voice.  All knew a confrontation was brewing there.  “Ardan, how is the Crucis March.”

“Cupboard’s bear Archron-Prince, all reserves are in Terra or Capella.  We have minimal troops for garrison and anti-pirate work, apart from along the Taurian border, where were able to only give up Montour and Verdigress.  If those dam Concordat’s had not shown up over Perdition, Leah and I could have rolled the bastards all the way back to Sterope and the Pleiades would still be ours.”

Victor smiled coldly, “They will be in time, but realities elsewhere mean that won’t happen immediately.”  Ardan nodded.

“Leah?”  Victor asked the last of his Field Marshalls.

“Sire, we copped it rough from the Capellans and Taurians, but we are back on the front foot.  We have bagged St. Ives, Texlos, Warlock, Ares and Necromo and liberated Sirdar.  If Thomas halts the FWLM, we will get back more than we lost and the citizens are celebrating the end of Capella in the streets, even if it was due to the Mariks.  I estimate we will be fighting for up to another 12 months, as we don’t have the force strength to really go hard.  Anywhere we have gotten cocky or lax, we have been hurt, so I see no reason to rush for an extra world or two, now that we have the real prizes.”

“Agreed, but I do want a plan for what remains on our side of the line.”

“Yes Sire, it’s already done and can come over our new circuit after the conference.”

“Good.”  Was Victor’s response as he thought for a moment.  “Alright then ladies and Gentlemen, you now have an idea of where we stand.  Generally, combat operations are proceeding well and naval operations are in good hands.  We now have secure central communications and will meet like this once a month.”  He paused, “Our priorities for 3064 are to keep the Vipers in their box, secure what we can of the Confederation and halt and then drive the Horses back.  A year ago, we agreed to wait and build ourselves up before acting, but circumstance prevented that.  That is still the plan though.  Once we end these conflicts, likely by the end of the year, I plan to stand all Marches down until 3070.  Then we sort out a few issues I have with some of our neighbours.”

There were laughs and comments at his last statement.  He held up his hand again for silence.  “I also want you to start thinking about a change to how we operate.”  Everyone went quiet.  “The RCT concept is good, but the Clans have adapted and are strengthening their Clusters; at least the smart one are.  General Travena has been working on a concept called the Integrated Battle Group, or IGB, that adds two Mech Battalions, a third Aerospace Wing and an extra Artillery Battalion.  The aim is to increase our mobile firepower and long-range support.  Th IGB structure give us about a 25% increase in overall firepower-mobility and you will all receive initial briefs after this meeting.  I expect you all to comment.”

The conference went on for another two hours, mainly focused logistics, but the gist was, the AFFC was planning for the future, not just the present.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on December 27, 2015, 02:00:05 AM

Parts of this Chapter were provided by marauder648.

-19-
30th of January, 3064
Wolf Command Centre
Alshain, Wolf Clan Occupation Zone

Phelan Kell walked quietly at the right side of Khan Severen Leroux of Clan Nova Cat, whilst Khan Barbara Sennet of Clan Diamond was to Kell’s left.  Behind the three came their saKhans, Marthe Pryde, Lucien Carns and Angus Labov.  They walked through the damaged city of Silverdale, the capital of the world, where the best of Clan Ghost Bear had so recently fought and died.

“The end of the Bears was a sad event, long had we walked with them in friendship, but in their end many Bears became savage, lost their way.”  Khan Leroux looked sadly at the damage that surrounded them.

“The fighting was brutal,” agreed Phelan, “They knew what was at stake, especially after the stupidity of the Jaguars claims.”

“Something they pay for as we speak.”  Said Khan Sennet, referencing the fighting that was consuming the Jaguars.

“Howell was good, but he reached too far too soon.”  Marthe said from behind them.

“Indeed.”  Responded Leroux, “His vision was not enough to overcome his Clan’s hubris and after the events of The Betrayal by our former kin, he was not thinking clearly.”

Before Phelan could respond, he saw his Merchant Factor and her assistants walking hurriedly towards him, stop and then lower her head in respect to the approaching Khans.  The six stopped before the merchants.

“What do you need Merchant Factor Cross?”

“I have the report on Alshain you requested, I was not made aware of the other Khan’s presence with you, I shall withdraw and present at your convenience.”

Phelan thought for a moment, No harm in showing off.  Khan Leroux, Khan Sennet, would you mind?  It may provide you with some background of what Clan Wolf is trying to accomplish here.”

Khan Sennet smiled, “So obvious Khan Kell, your usual subtlety seems to be deserting you.”
Leroux chuckled as Phelan responded, “We all have our little failings Khan Sennet, though I will hope for a little information in return.”

She beamed at him, “But of course Khan Wolf, it would not be proper to do otherwise.”

Phelan motioned for the Merchant Factor to fall in slightly behind them and continued walking along Silverdale’s main boulevard, towards what was once the headquarters of Clan Ghost Bear.  “Factor Cross, begin your report.”

“It would be my honour Khan Kell.  My Khan, we have finished our initial assessment of the facilities that were captured from Clan Ghost Bear, and you will be pleased to know that the Bear’s did not sabotage or damage any of what we took.  The former Ghost Bear Scientist and Labour Castes are both being co-operative with our own personnel, though we have assigned some of our own people to ensure integration goes smoothly.  We are, of course, carrying out security and vetting checks on former Rasalhague personnel, but quite frankly, at the moment we need all of the Bear’s personnel.” 

She paused before continuing.

“I say this because they know their systems and they have the personnel in position at the moment.  The problem as I see it, is with the Bear’s Spheroid populace, we must remember that they are not Clan and were only in the early processes of starting to accept their now displaced masters and we have to continue this careful work.  The Mech facilities were under joint Clan and Spheroid control, apparently as a way of integrating them without creating too many frictions.  This was not an issue, as we follow similar protocols.”

Phelan nodded and gestured around him, “If we can overcome any shocks from the transition and appear to be benevolent, rather than a pack of savages like the Jaguars, then we may at least be accepted.”  Sennet and Leroux also nodded at Phelan’s words.

After waiting to see if her Khan would speak again, Cross continued, “Work force concerns aside, we have a huge opportunity ahead of us my Khan, once all the factories and orbital yards are online and up to speed, we will have increased our industrial output by 76.76%.  We now produce a complex and flexible suite of Mech, Aerospace and vehicle units.  Our Warriors also captured several Elemental Battle Armour facilities, including one preparing to produce the Gnome.  Also captured, were plans for a new heavy suit the Bears were developing and initial investigations into its capabilities are promising and are recommended to be pursued.”

“I’ll review the data before any work on the new suit commences Cross, go on.”

The Merchant made a note on her data pad as she continued her report, “The Orbital yards are the greatest prize.  There are two slips that can take the largest vessels, including the captured Leviathan’s, as well as smaller yards and slipways for lesser craft.  Initial estimates show we can produce Broadsword and Union class DropShips at one yard, useful considering recent losses.  Initial surveys of both the Leviathan and Rasalhague show that whilst damage is extensive to both ships, they are structurally sound and we can begin working on their outer hulls without having them take up yard space.  Once patched up, we can then re-pressurise them and begin work on the interior, which I am afraid is a challenge.  Initial reports and investigations estimate that the Leviathan will need at least twelve months in the yard whilst the Rasalhague may require up to eighteen, but with full work crews, we believe we could shave a few months off that, if given the resources needed.”

“The Black Lion we captured though is in a terrible condition, and whilst I hate to waste anything, especially a prize we won in honourable battle, she is in truth little more than a floating wreck.  All that saved her was her Captain venting her main fuel tanks and it is my suggestion that we slowly scrap her for spare parts to keep our current Black Lion-class ships in action.

Phelan shook his head emphatically, “Not approved Cross, repair the ship."

She made another note and continued, “The York-class vessel is in better condition, four months of work should see her re-join the fleet proudly baring the symbol of Clan Wolf.  We will also take the chance to upgrade her electronics and standardize them with our parts.”

“The former Jaguar Aegis is in an adequate condition, although her repairs will take nine months at least, owing to the heavy damage she suffered to her engines and a fire induced explosion on her flight deck.  Our damaged ships are already en-route back to Wolf space and we have already berthed the most damaged, whilst the ships lightly damaged are being patched up out of the yards.  The White Aerie suffered the worst, but she can be repaired, especially now we have access to the first rate yards of Alshain and our yards from the Homeworlds coming on line over Kirchbach.  We also have salvage teams clearing up any orbital debris from the engagements.  We are also undertaking a huge salvage operation to restore as many downed Mech’s as possible.”

“And the genetic repositories?”  Asked Kell.  Though not as ingrained into his own psyche as it was for those raised in the Clans, he was deeply aware of the importance of the prize his Clan had won.

“Undamaged, and the assessment is complete, our Clan has secured 1,011 legacies from 97 Bloodlines, thirty-eight of those comprising original Ghost Bear lines, the rest from captured and traded legacies from other Clans.”

Kell expected more of a reaction from the other Khans and was surprised that there was no comment.  I wonder why?  Cross was still speaking.

“Also the former Crown Prince of the Rasalhague Republic is demanding to speak with you my Khan…I believe he wishes to know your intentions for him and his people.”

Phelan responded, this time getting a reaction from the other Khans, “He will be pleased to know we are moving our capital to Rasalhague.  What are your thoughts on meeting him Merchant Factor.”

“I am no Warrior nor politician my Khan, but I feel that you should meet with him, show that we are not Jaguars come to enslave, but here to live with the peoples of the worlds we have captured and indeed shall capture.  I would suggest that we also have our own Spheroid’s come to meetings with the Rasalhague leaders and industrial commanders.  Their words would carry much weight, as they have been living with us the longest and know how we rule."

Phelan Kell nodded “Thank you Merchant Factor Cross that will be all.”

“Of course my Khan.”

Phelan waited until the Merchant was out of earshot before letting out a sigh, he heard a soft chuckle and turned to look at Marthe Pryde who was trying not to smile.

“At times I wonder why we put up with them, once they get started…”

“Aff, but she is right you know.”

“Hmm?”

“About meeting the civilian leaders and using the former Bear workers: we should represent stability and continuity, we do not want them thinking of us as oppressors, they had started to accept the Bear’s, they will learn to accept us.”

Khan Sennet spoke, “The Bear’s had problems with a terrorist organization quiaff?”

“Aff,” answered Phelan, “an organization called MotstÃ¥nd, they were fighting for the independence of their worlds before Revival and took objection to the Bear’s being here.  They will no doubt have cause to strike at our forces and personnel too.”

Leroux looked to Phelan, “If your record is anything to go by, you will not slaughter civilians and take hostages, you will win their trust and show that the future you represent is a bright.  Let your Watch work with local forces in hunting down any MotstÃ¥nd cells, bring them to trial if possible.  Let the people to see that justice will be done and fairly at that.”

Marthe spoke up in an angry voice, “But they are dezgra bandits surely we should just wipe out their nests where we find them.”

“Aff.” Said Phelan, “And we shall, but we will not sink to their level.  In our space, we have had little civilian insurrection, but we have two distinct cultures now to control.  It will be a challenging time for us all, one that will call for us to show restraint and be as patient as the wolf.  However, should they raise a sword against us we shall rend them.”

The group arrived at the courtyards and gardens at the front of the command centre and Phelan lead them to a quite side garden, where he indicated they rest on the grass.  Each Khan found a comfortable place to stretch out on the in dappled sunlight.

“What of the Bear’s Sibkos?” Asked Angus Labov, twisting grass in his fingers.

Phelan shrugged and leant on his elbow, “At the moment there are thirty six groups of Sibkin on Alshain alone.  I have placed our own instructors in charge of them and they have started the necessary training and indoctrination, they are young enough to adapt and be moulded quiaff?  The older groups will be more difficult, but no problem is without solution and those that don’t adapt will not become warriors.”

“Aff.” said Marthe Pryde, “We shall have them complete their training and trials and if they succeed they will join our Tourman alongside their captured kin.  The Bear’s genetic legacy cannot be allowed to die and will live on in the Wolf, as will their Blood Names.  They fought hard, but with honour and bravery, even though they knew they had little chance of defeating us.  They broke the Jaguar’s back and saved us, and you,” she looked to the Nova Cats,” the pain of doing so.  In all honesty, we need the troops, we need the MechWarrior’s and their Aerospace pilots.”

“A question regarding that, asked Khan Sennet,” kneeling on the grass in a manner which would not be out of place in the Draconis Combine, “we know the Bear’s stopped using the Aerospace phenotype decades ago, will you continue this practice?”

Phelan thought for a moment, whilst the Aerospace phenotype did offer some advantages it wasn’t that great to warrant a new genetic programme. He nodded “Aff, though we shall continue their Elemental programme, that Galaxy of Elementals they had fought like demons.”
Phelan sat up, “But to the real business of the moment.  I have taken the liberty of contacting the Hell’s Horses.”  Phelan lifted a small holographic projector and the two Horse Khans appeared, no more than a foot tall before them.  Instead of Malavai Fletcher, there was James Cobb with saKhan’s insignia at his throat and Tanya DeLaurel as Khan.

“Khan DeLaurel, where is Malavai?”  Asked Angus Labov

“Dead in the infernal warrens of this world Khan Labov.  It was not the death he sought, but it was death nonetheless.  We will continue without him.”

“Welcome then Khan DeLaurel.”  Phelan said, then paused and faced the Khans with him, “Khans, what brings you all here, at this point in time?”

“What of the Vipers?”  Asked saKhan Labov.

“What is the point?”  Asked Marthe in return.

“Your point is valid right there.”  Said Lucien Carns.  “They will not last out the decade the way they behave and they have not the strength to last even if they changed.”

The four Khans of the other Clans on Alshain looked to each other for some time before Lucien Carns spoke again, staring intently at Phelan and Marthe as he did so.  “We wish to know the mind of the Wolf, though you have already shared some of it with us.  The universe is a more complex place now.  Clans are dying, we have lost our link to our birthplace and the Wolf grows ever stronger on the death of others.”

Phelan looked hard at Carns, “You wish to know if we will come for you as well.”

Leroux shook his head, “Not so much.  We have reserves and strength beyond the Jaguar, much of it the Jaguars only weeks ago and now we are stronger than the Bear before you struck.  We would not be an easy fight.”

“Nor would we,” said Khan Sennet, “We have the heart of the Ice Hellion and no fixed base of supply for any to strike at.”

“You succeeded at Schuyler then Khan Leroux and I assume the Diamond Sharks have fallen hard on the Ice Hellions.”

Both nodded, though Sennet spoke first, her dark skin alight with pleasure at the memory, “A hard fight across Chainlaine, but there are less than six active Hellion Clusters left, all soon to die.  Their worlds will be stripped and we will move to finer pastures.”

Before Phelan could ask where those pastures were, saKhan Carns spoke, “We have Schuyler in our hands, though the Jaguars returned in force.  They cannot last though, the Bears drained too much from them and we are pressuring them across their zone, as are you Khan Kell.  Time is short for the Jaguar before it joins the Bear in history.”

“So it would seem.”  Said Phelan

Carns continued, “We have no plans to fight the Wolf.  Our visions show the Nova Cat and others following the Wolf against the fallen in the outer dark.  We respect the Wolf and will follow its lead.  Within reasonable bounds of course.”

“As will we.”  Said Khan Sennet.  “You hold the strength of four Clans within you now, a history none can match.  Of those of us left, you have gained the right to be our leading voice, for any challenge that we, or the others, could mount would weaken us all to an extent that the Inner Sphere could end all the Clans in the Inner Sphere.  We need to act, if not as one, at least in general agreement to prevent those in the Homeworlds returning and ending us all.”

“Khan Sennet speaks the truth of it Khan Kell, the Wolf is ascendant.”  Said Khan DeLaurel.
Phelan looked at the other Clans, “If that is so, and we are honoured by your view of Clan Wolf, we must take stock and see what faces each of us in future.”

Khan Leroux put his hands behind him and leant back, “Wise.  Through knowledge and understanding we can better interpret the whispers of the future.  Should I begin?”

“Certainly.”  Said Phelan.

Leroux bowed his head, “We have fifty three Clusters and twenty three WarShips across forty six systems.  We are currently engaged with Clan Smoke Jaguar for another seven worlds.  We can produce 720 points of material a year, along with forty-two DropShips and six JumpShips.  We also have two WarShips under construction.  Following the end of fighting with Clan Smoke Jaguar, we intend to rest and integrate all we have recently taken.”

Phelan smiled at Severen, “You are a first tier Clan more than ever before, even the Star Adders would be unable to master you.”

“Thankyou Khan Kell, fate has been bountiful for us.”

Khan Sennet laughed, “We should have asked for more when we traded Wolcott to you.  Our own strength is thirty-four clusters, though they are equal to forty-six of the Wolves or Cats.  The evacuation cost us dearly in space and we have but ten ships remaining.  Our recent gains allow us to produce 366 points per year, three JumpShips and twelve DropShips.  We have neither gained not lost overall, unlike you both.”  Khan Sennet indicated to the Nova Cat and Wolf Clans.  “We plan to make a new home and one that will come cheaply, so we can properly begin the task of rebuilding.” 

“You faced a reinforced Clan Star Adder and withdrew in good order, there were others who faced less and suffered more Khan Sennet.”  This from saKhan Cobb, who seemed to speak from bitter experience.

“What of your strength saKhan Cobb?”  Said Phelan.

“We have twenty nine Clusters, each a little stronger than your own and eight WarShips.  We hold twenty six worlds and can produce 228 points of material in a year, something we seek to add to once we gain Coventry and the systems nearby.”

“You have done well in your new assault, though you seem to have struck their main line of resistance.”  Said Phelan.

“We have and we may not be able to break them, though not for lack of skill.  Our defensive lines grow longer and our reserves fall as we advance.  The Cloud Cobras may have dealt us enough damage to make the wound fatal.”

Kell thought for a moment, We need the Horses, especially now Fletcher is gone.  Khan DeLaurel, your Horses have always answered the call of the Wolf have they not?”

“Yes.”

“Then we shall repay your honour.”

The small projection of the Horse Khan cocked its head, “How?”

“Our operations will soon be at and end.  I am willing to contract three Galaxies of Wolves and their support for 20% of the output from any industrial systems taken during combined operations.”

Both Horse Khans whispered to each other for a minute, before Khan DeLaurel turned to face the others.  “We accept your offer, but we must ask:  Why are the Wolves so generous with aid unasked for?”

“Because we are the last of the Clans who hold true to our history and we must strengthen ourselves against the return of our failed kin.  We are all Wardens now and we must form a shield for the rest of the Inner Sphere against the fallen Clans madness, even if that means taking parts of the Inner Sphere so we can build a wall to keep the barbarians at bay.”

“Then we chose correctly in wanting to follow the Wolf.”  Said Severen, a smile creasing his old face.

Phelan smiled, “Don’t be too hasty Khan Leroux, the Wolf has trod wrong before.”

“With our advice, it should be harder to repeat the mistakes of the past.”

“I have a question for Khan Sennet though?”  Said Phelan.

“I thought you might.”  Sennet responded.

“Where are you going?  Where are your greener pastures?”

“On the other side of the Sphere, though we will maintain contact and come if the fallen return.  We see great advantage to us there.”

“Typical Shark,” said Marthe, “Can’t swim in a restricted tank for long.”

“No Khan Pryde, we cannot.  We have also not had an accounting of the strength of the Wolves.”

Marthe smiled and smiled all teeth, “We have ninety seven Clusters and thirty five WarShips, with three more building.  Sixteen of those Clusters are heavy with Bear abthaka and have large holes in their ranks.  These Clusters defend 135 worlds and have a support base that produces 1,527 points per year, 150 DropShips and thirty-three JumpShips.”  The other Khans were wide eyed at the true strength of Clan Wolf, strength that was more than the other three combined.

 â€œSo we have approximately 230 Clusters and seventy-six WarShips, with five more under construction across more than 200 star systems.  This is not enough to stop N’Buta and his mad hordes.  We need to build and with the resources at our hands we can, and drive the fallen back into the outer darkness when they come.”  Phelan ended loudly.

“Such strength you still possess Khan Wolf, even if you see it as too small.  You will soon come to be considered equal to a Successor State in power.”

“Perhaps also in name too.”  Said Phelan, “We plan to bring the remnants of the Free Rasalhague Republic into our sphere and relocate our Capital to Rasalhague.  This all will soon be part of the Wolf-Rasalhague Khanate.  We plan to harness the will of our local people and turn it to our own ends.  Long have they struggled to matter on the broader stage.  Now with us, they will be feared.  We will give them their pride and they will give us their loyalty and their strength.”

“How much more do you seek from the Jaguars?”  Asked Lucien.

“You mean how much will we leave to you Khan Carns?”  Phelan held up a hand to forestall the answer.  “Few more worlds.  Apart from Ardoz and Sternwerde, we will make no new assaults.  The Jaguars are yours to finish, though we will kill many for you where we are already engaged.”

“Our task lies before us if we are or end our new foe in the Homeworlds.”  Severen Leroux said as he stood.  “To new times, new plans and to honour and respect amongst the last of us.”
“Seyla.”  Said seven other voices as all the Khans stood.

Title: Re: Of Wolves and Falcons
Post by: Blacknova on December 27, 2015, 04:28:35 AM

Currently uploading maps for May-early January here https://www.mediafire.com/folder/ij747h7tnp2g3/Of_Flacons_and_Wolves (https://www.mediafire.com/folder/ij747h7tnp2g3/Of_Flacons_and_Wolves)