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General BattleTech => Alternate Universe => Urionverse => Topic started by: Rayo Azul on February 14, 2011, 12:21:05 PM
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After their attack on the FedCom jumpship and the unplanned second jump, Jax and his men find themselves in unknown space. Their first priority is to repair their ship and return home to Winfield.
Whilst searching for a safe haven, they stumble upon an inhabitable planet whose people are suffering from the machinations of a self-styled Emperor. This planet has apparently regressed in level of technology with their isolation from mankind. They must take sides if they are to harness the world's resources, but the choice of might over right is never easy.
Their decision will not only affect their immediate future, but that of the Dark Falcons themselves.
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Prologue
The young girl walked quietly down the main street, avoiding the puddles formed by yesterday’s rain and the piles of excrement from today’s animals. She was late for school and knew she would be punished for that. Her older brother Arn waved at her as she passed by the guard house where he was standing in his bright new uniform. Even he looked handsome in it.
Arn saw his little sister skip away, her trilling laughter lightening somewhat his dreary day. Turning eighteen was special for a number of reasons, but to him the greatest part was the fact it meant that he was called for military service. Everyone did the basic training early and with the almost perpetual state of war, no-one missed out.
Soon they would be marched to the front, where he too could die in the name of the Emperor. That was, he had been told, the greatest blessing a man could receive.
A growing noise impinged on his consciousness. It was unusual in that it was a strange roaring, as though some wild animal had been chained against its will. At first he though it came from behind him, but then was unsure. He squinted, his hand shading his eyes from the sun, as movement drew his attention. Black shapes, high in the sky. They too were growing. Birds never got that big, did they?
Soon he realised that these were no birds. Their wings were straight, almost stubby and their heads sparkled as the sun reflected off them. They were metal! He raised his rifle, fumbling with the paper cartridge. Biting off the end, Arn poured the powder and ball into the muzzle and tamped it down. Taking careful aim, he saw others rushing out beside him, mirroring his actions. The bawl of his sergeant as he dressed the men into line, made him smile. Arn fired.
In slow motion the things turned, diving down towards him. Musket fire crackled now, yet seemed to have no effect, the things turning again and rising, flame spouting from their rears. On their sides was painted a strange emblem. Nothing known to him. Then they were gone.
Sergeant Price patted him on the back and praised his vigilance. He also bulled up their success in chasing the devils away, yet Arn knew that they had not caused even the slightest of damage. It was as he was hanging his head that he noticed the puddle of water near him. Ripples shivered outwards from its centre, as though something heavy had been dropped nearby. Then he felt it.
A metronomic beat, as though giant feet marked time on the ground. He heard the scream of his sister and rushed forward, standing in shock and horror by her side. Enormous. Gigantic. A demon stood before them. No rifles were raised in response, people fleeing in panic. Arn took his sister’s hand in his, and waited to die.
*
Arn and his sister had been passed by, the huge monster striding over them with oblivious ease. He had hurried her away in the direction of their home, intending to leave her there and find his unit. His rifle he carried with him, the Sergeant’s constant reminder of death following its loss having been ingrained in his mind throughout his basic training. When he reached their humble dwelling, he found his parents hurrying to load their belongings on a small cart.
“Where are you going?†he asked, as he handed his sister into the care of his mother.
“Away from here,†mumbled his father, “your aunt and uncle have a nice house in the city. They’ve been on at us to join them for a long time. This seems to be the right moment.â€
“We have to fight,†said Arn incredulously, “the Emperor…â€
“Is not here!†snapped his father, “now are you coming, or not?â€
“Not!†said Arn stubbornly, “I will stay and protect our things from the demons, as should a soldier of the Emperor.â€
“Fool,†sneered his father, and then more gently, “you know where to find us. It will take us a day or so to reach the city. We will look for you there.â€
A hug from his mother, a handshake from his father and a tearful kiss from his little sister were his last remembrance of them. He watched as the handcart was dragged protestingly away, then he squared his shoulders, checked his ammunition and ran towards the sound of musket fire, which crackled lamely in the distance.
-
Chapter One
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A wind blew across the field of grain, stirring the over-ripe husks and making them rub together in an unpleasant discord. It was cold, bitingly so and brought with it a presage of death. These fields had been left untended, abandoned by their owners as the two opposing sides wearily trudged to their meeting. To the left stood rank upon rank of blue-coated soldiery in an unbroken and disciplined line. Artillery pieces were arrayed behind them on slightly higher ground and they waited mostly in silence. Now and again, a dry cough broke the quiet, or the jingle of harness where an officer rode his mount along their front.
From the cover of sparse woodland to the right could be heard the tramping of feet, jocular laughter and occasional song. First one, then another appeared. They sported the remnants of a grey-brown uniform. Battered hats topped their unsightly appearance and each soldier seemed to have felt the hand of a crazed or drug-ridden tailor. In effect, they wore the cast-offs of the battlefield, boots stolen from one corpse, coat from another, yet they carried their long-barrelled rifles with a nonchalant ease.
Murmuring among the Emperor’s troops was quickly quelled by the bark of sergeants and other non-commissioned officers, horses were reined in and swords drawn. The newcomers laughed and jeered as more of their companions joined them. They stopped just on the verge of the clearing and waited. In the shadows behind them was a mass of movement. Indistinct. Threatening.
An order was shouted and the Emperor’s soldiers began to march forward to the slow tattoo of drums. Still their foe waited. As though some magic point had been reached, the dishevelled warriors dropped to the earth and cannon roared. A deadly hail of canister was thrown forward, exploding above the marching troops. It scythed threw the unprotesting crop, reaping a bloody harvest of humanity. Again and again the bestial bellows sounded whilst the disciplined ranks came on. Then, they ceased.
Sound there was now in plenty. The cries of wounded men, pleading for succour and praying for the Emperor’s mercy rang out. Of that, there would be little this day. A howling mob poured from the protection of the trees as the answering roar came from the enemy artillery. Shells exploded amongst them, spinning bodies and spraying blood and gore. This did not stop the keening cries, which rose in an unholy chorus from the throats of the advancing mob.
Men stooped to one knee and fired, their musket balls smashing through blue uniformed figures and punching them to the earth. Quickly they covered the intervening distance and bayonets were fixed and wicked-looking knives drawn. The massacre then began in earnest.
Later, the Emperor would chastise his officers with hangings and summary execution, but really the fault was his. He had underestimated this ill-supplied and rag-tag army, his arrogance and belief in his own near godhood fed by his fawning minions. This would not be the last of his surprises or mistakes.
*
High above the battlefield, two figures stared into their holo-display, eagerly following the outcome of the battle. This had not been the first world that they had visited, but it did seem the most promising.
A signal chimed and the shorter of the two turned and listened to an incoming message.
“Our fact-finding mission appears to have been a success,†he said to the woman beside him, “they’re bringing the prisoners back with them, now.â€
“Did they have any problems?†she asked, still staring avidly at the carnage below.
“No,†he laughed, “it seems that gods from the sky have fallen to earth. The majority of them ran away and those that fired on us did so with musket balls. I think that we’re going to like it here.â€
“Speak for yourself,†she grumbled, “these surats will provide little sport.â€
“I’m not looking for sport,†the man growled, “rather a way home. When we do return, I would like to do so, well-prepared for any eventuality.â€
“What good will these freebirth be?†she questioned angrily.
“Don’t forget that I am freebirth, too,†he admonished her, and then laughed, “and Elana, look what you made of me.â€
*
Emperor Gaius Augustus the Third sat on his ornately carved throne, heavily jowled chin resting on one hand. Before him were arrayed his frightened counsellors. They had just witnessed the summary execution of two of their fellows, one general and a pastry cook. Now they trembled with fear as a lowly sergeant related the visit of the mechanical demons.
None knew whether it was better to laugh or cry. So, they did nothing.
“Tell me, Sergeant...?â€
“Price, your illustriousness...â€
“Yes, quite. These demon machines, I wonder that our enemies were able to trick you so,†and then his face flushed with anger, “well I, your Beloved Emperor, will not be so fooled. Take him away!â€
The poor Sergeant was led away by two burly guards, all the while protesting his innocence. He was ignored. No-one was going to admit that they in any way believed him.
“Call General Aquilla,†snapped the petulant Emperor, “he will get to the bottom of this!â€
As the echoed order was passed outside, Gaius Augustus reached for a honeyed snack and sighed. The world was full of idiots, he knew, buy why oh why was he cursed with the majority of them?
*
General Julius Aquilla was famous, and he knew it. His exploits and conquests under the indulgence of his Emperor were legend. He was a cruel man and his role allowed him to press even his own boundaries and insatiable appetites. Word had come to him first of this alleged visitation by demons; machines which flew and enormous metal men, ridiculous. However, by quashing the rumour and liberally applying a little brutality, he would be quickly able to return to the capitol a hero.
This Emperor was weak and easily swayed. Soon, he Julius Aquilla would be able to take his rightful place and lead his people. The disastrous defeat heaped upon his main rival had done him no harm either. So, it was with a calm and measured step he entered the Imperial chamber. Many noted his proud and muscular figure as he approached his Emperor and secretly compared them.
*
It was later that same day that a troop of cavalry in burnished armour was led from the city. At their head sat the General conscious of his finery and the admiring gaze of the rude populace. Each of his men was hand-chosen, experts with rifle, pistol and sword. He had seen no need to take a larger contingent with him, as he was convinced that it was nothing more than sheer peasant superstition.
Also, the less witnesses remaining after his re-education of the locals would be important and he could trust his followers to carry out his orders with gusto. Already in his mind, he was savouring the visceral pleasure of the slaughter he anticipated and his rapid return to be heaped with more honour.
Others also watched his passage. Two men hidden on a nearby hillside followed his triumphant exit and waited until he had disappeared from sight. They then found and mounted their own horses; shaggy mountain ponies, rough of coat but well-suited to their environment. Their path took them on a roughly parallel course, yet they quickly outdistanced the slow-moving column.
*
It was terrifying. Nothing could have prepared him for the experience. After leaving his family, Arn had found a small group of soldiers huddled behind an overturned cart. He had joined his musket fire to their’s and suffered the same fate. Their Sergeant was nowhere to be seen, but the small squad had valiantly kept up their fire until a smaller demon had found them. Musket balls ricocheted harmlessly from its metal skin, as it slowly approached.
In a demonstration of the futility of their resistance, it had raised its arm and sent a beam of bright light against the metal spokes of their shelter. Slowly tracing the pulsating weapon towards them, it melted the hard structure easily. Globules of shining metal had pooled onto the ground before them, stunning them into mute terror.
Then its arm was pointed menacingly towards them and one by one they dropped their muskets to the floor. Imperiously the demon motioned them away from their now useless barricade and towards the centre of the village, where they huddled together in fear. One or two more men were herded there and then the creature spoke. No mouth moved, yet its voice seemed to resonate from the very air around them. The words were hard to distinguish, yet still recognisable, almost as though one of Emperor’s historians was recounting an obscure tale.
More gestures sent them scurrying out of the village towards a strange flying cart, which descended from the sky. They were roughly pushed inside, strapped to their seats by strangely garbed servants of the demons, and then began their terrifying ride.
For himself, Arn struggled between wonder and fear of the unknown. Bright lights flashed and he felt a powerful vibration. His hands gripped the arms of the chair into which he had been placed and he mumbled a prayer to the Emperor for deliverance.
When the sickening motion stopped, he and his fellow captives were guided out of the chariot into a huge open space. It was a gigantic room, in which he saw a number of the gigantic demons sleeping. The most terrifying moment came, when one of the smaller beings removed its head, to display a human face inside. It was at that moment he came close to fainting.
Soldiers with strange rifles escorted them down shining corridors to a smaller room, which looked more familiar as it contained a table on a raised platform and a number of chairs arranged in ranks before it. They were left for a while; two silent guards their only company, until a bell chimed and a door slid back. In marched a black-uniformed figure and the most enormous woman that Arn had ever seen. The guards saluted the man and left.
One of his companions rose as if to speak, but the woman smiled and shook her head and he slumped back down again.
“Wise decision, surat,†she said flexing her muscles, “it is time for you all to learn your fate. You will speak only when you are asked a direct question. Failure to obey will be dealt with swiftly.â€
She nodded at her companion, who even though she towered over, was treated with great respect. He, thought Arn, must have some terrible power, it this giantess deferred so easily to him.
The man perched on the edge of the table and smiled warmly.
“Welcome...†he said slowly and clearly, “...to the Dark Falcons.â€
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Chapter Two
A slow, steady stream of refugees continued down the main road into the valley below. They were a mix of men and women on foot, belongings bundled together and carried on heads, in hands or in satchels. Weaving in between were those lucky enough to own a horse or mule which could do their owners work. At the rear handcarts piled high with the accumulation of a poor lifetime trundled wearily.
It was within this final group that Arn’s family plodded slowly along. His sister gambolled happily beside her parents, blissfully ignorant of their predicament. No-one was away of the eyes which watched greedily from a nearby hillside until it was far too late, lost as they were in their own misery.
The drumming of hoofbeats on the packed earth broke into their reverie and soon cries of fear could be heard. People cast away their personal items, trampled over each other or even just huddled together in desperation. Demons were one thing, but the Emperor’s cavalry was a more well known evil.
*
Julius Aquilla had waited eagerly for the majority of his prey to enter the killing ground. He had studied them carefully through his spyglass, ensuring that there were few weapons and even fewer fighting men before he gave the order to charge. In one long line, his men had begun to walk their horses, sabres drawn and resting against their shoulders. Pistols would be a waste on these vermin and the hot red bodily fluid a prize to be won.
A sharp command brought them to a canter, then a trot as they neared the bottom slopes of the hill. Once on level ground the charge was ordered in earnest. Knee to knee they thundered down on their helpless victims. Soon their chilling battle-cry could be heard and the slaughter began.
As one they slammed into the column, the weight of their charge bowling their victims over, where they were trampled under foot. Bright slivers of metal flashed in the sun as they rose and fell in methodical butchery. Blood rained down from high, as the upsweep of their blades sprayed a rich red harvest. Those who escaped the first carnage ran blindly away and were subjected to the whooping howl of the hunt.
At a full run, the horsemen bore down on them. Sabres sliced, imparting awful wounds in back and face, as the men rose in their saddles to deliver their cuts. Time and again they wheeled back, driving their prey before them and allowing all to enjoy their sport.
Arn’s father had fallen early, his staff raised in a vain attempt to protect his family. Aquilla’s blade had shorn through the ineffective wood and cleaved open the man’s skull. His mother lasted a little longer, holding her little girl in her arms as she ran, but to no avail. The General wanted no survivors, no witnesses to bleat of the injustice delivered to them. He laughed as he killed and his men joined in.
Once the main chase was done, they dismounted to deliver the coup de grace with knife or pistol, leaving none alive. Finally, General Julius Aquilla gave the order to mount, leading his men slowly away laughing and joking as they went.
*
There were no survivors, yet there were two distinct sets of witnesses. A small band of men had stayed hidden under cover and watched the massacre. They had not tried to help, their orders had been clear on that fact. Teeth were ground in frustration and terrible oaths sworn, yet none disobeyed their orders. As the General led his men away, they waited a small time and then sought out their own horses.
The second witness was a remote spycam, many miles high, which diligently recorded the events. It was mindless, so did not know the importance to one, even now held within the bowels of the ship which spawned it. Instead it continued on its way, transmitting data which would later be studied on board the distant warship.
*
The strange cord sat uncomfortably on Arn’s wrist. He stared at the three distinct turns and toyed with them idly. Elana, the Elemental as she called herself was speaking, her leader Lieutenant Jax had left them with her a while ago, and attempted to explain the honour they had been done. It seemed as though their futile stand had impressed these Dark Falcons and had helped them, and others, become slaves. She had sneered at Arn’s denouncement of his staus and continued to indicate that they were now recognised as part of the Dark Falcon Clan. No matter how hard he tried, Arn could not recognise that he had been done any favour.
A sharp tug on his new tunic dragged him back to the present. The enormous woman had twisted her hand into the cloth and now lifted him easily to his feet.
“You will listen,†she snarled, “there is no room for melancholy. I expect you to continue to show the courage and dedication already demonstrated. Failure will not be tolerated.â€
Arn beat futilely against her arm, bruising his fist against the hardened exterior. Terror struck him, as he realised that beneath his knuckles was no flesh. She tossed him aside and peeled back the sleeve of her jacket.
“Yes, my frightened child. Some of us have already given of ourselves to our Clan. Willingly we will give more.â€
There was a proud fanaticism in her words and as he struggled to his feet, Arn wondered again at where these people had come from. The Emperor would deal with them eventually, he thought, and then remembered the ineffectual sound of his musket balls against their armoured figures. Doubt crept in, but he had been well-schooled, and fought his worry with defiance.
“You will be sorry when the Emperor finds out what you have done. Even now, I am sure that his strongest troops will be rushing to our aid. They will rescue us and defeat you.â€
Elana laughed, “Unless your vaunted Emperor can fly, there is little possibility of reaching us.â€
“You’ll see,†shouted Arn, “our army will respond and crush you.â€
“I think that your re-education needs to begin immediately. Follow me, all of you.â€
The ten men obeyed, some more sullenly than others. Two guards followed behind him, their rifles held easily in their hands. It was a strange sight, the crisp new coveralls they had been given hung off them as they shuffled along. They wore no chains, but behaved almost as though they were shackled together. Their journey ended after they had entered a small room, which contained a number of lighted buttons on one side. Packed together they were hurled upwards and groans escaped from them. This was a new and terrifying experience.
Abruptly they stopped and doors slid open. Stumbling forwards, they found themselves in a large open space, on whose walls were banked metal objects. Sat in front of them were men and women, whose hands flew across a flat object and who seemed to be talking to themselves. Elana made straight towards one who was seated on a slightly raised dais.
“Elias,†she said peremptorily, “I need to see the information received yesterday.â€
“Which information would that be?†asked the man, laughingly, “Could you be a little more specific? It would help you know.â€
There was a sharp intake of breath from amongst Arn’s group, but Elana just smiled.
“You have been spending far too much time with the Lieutenant,†she growled, “I refer to the incident in the valley.â€
The man’s face darkened and he looked more closely at the group before him, before speaking.
“Is that wise?†he asked cautiously.
“Imperative,†she answered.
“Very well,†Elias said, “I will put in on the central holo-screen.â€
Elana nodded in thanks and in an almost gentle manner, shooed her charges towards a flat glass-topped table.
“Recording running...†a voice intoned, and Arn began to witness not just the death of his family, his village, but of all of his close cherished beliefs.
*
Jax entered the room and watched the ashen faces of the young men. Their bond cords stood out starkly against their weathered skin and the dark cloth of their new coveralls. Some started to weep, yet on the face of one he saw a cold and terrible anger. He had learnt some of their names and this young man, Arn, had been the most vociferous in his belief in the godliness of his Emperor. Now though, he looked ready to kill.
“Listen to me,†Jax said softly, “what you have seen here is a shock and no doubt, has shaken the very foundations of your beliefs. I will make you a promise, here and now. Join with us wholeheartedly and I will give you the means to exact retribution. We, in the Dark Falcons, will be your family. Your enemy will become our enemy. No slight, however small, against you will be forgiven or forgotten. This man, no this thing hidden beneath flesh and blood, will be wiped from the face of this planet. You have my word.â€
“I will join you!†snarled Arn, leaping to his feet.
“Wait,†Jax said quietly, “until you have heard everything. We have our own battle to fight, others of our family in great need. When we leave this world, to journey back to our own, you will come with us. Understand what it means to be a Dark Falcon, the Clan comes before all else. No-one will be left behind.â€
“What do I do?†asked Arn, “I am ready to swear my allegiance.â€
The others rose, one by one, murmuring their agreement, as Jax reached for his belt knife.
“It will not be easy,†he said motioning Arn forward, “you will be given into the care of Elana here. She will bring you up to speed and will spare no-one’s blushes. If you are found worthy, you will be welcomed into our warrior caste.â€
“And if not?†one of Arn’s companions asked, a frightened tone in his voice.
“You will be found a place amongst us, do not fear,†Jax continued, placing his blade under the first twist of the bond cord on Arn’s wrist. With a quick motion he cut through it and turned to the next.
“Welcome,†he said to each of them in turn, “listen to what Elana has to say and show you and you will succeed.†Then he grinned evilly, “Ignore her and not even I can save you!â€
*
General Aquilla’s boots clacked on the marble flooring as he strode towards the Emperor’s chambers. He was still flushed with the excitement of his work. To him, there was nothing wrong with his actions and he had no doubt that his Emperor would agree with him.
Two guards moved away from the ornate double doors which led into the chamber and announced him, before quickly standing aside. A courtier sprayed him with scented water, as the stench of horse, sweat and blood crossed the fop’s nostrils. Aquilla glared at him and the man scurried away. When I hold the reins of power, he thought, that one will be one of the first to feel my ire.
He grinned at the thought and moved on, towards the ornate throne and the distasteful fawning he would need to do. Not for much longer, though. No, not for much longer at all.
*
Ioin Kearney sat around the campfire. He had returned with the small patrol and recounted all of the terrible massacre they had witnessed. His leader’s response had been non-committal, as though none of the villagers’ lives had been worth a damn. Ioin knew that they were followers of the cursed Emperor, but still, women and children. It was not right.
As a man, how could he accept to stand idly by? He knew that others felt the same way, yet none spoke out. The sharp reprimand he had received had only served to fuel his determination. Prisoners taken in the mountains had spoken of the demons and their horrible powers. To seek them out and kill them, now that was a task for a man.
Kearney spat into the fire, his decision made. Tomorrow, he would ask permission. His mind made up, he rolled himself in his blanket and laid down to sleep.
Above on the hillside, a dark figure watched. His infra-red sensors showed him the men below, as though it was full daylight. Lieutenant Jax had ordered Hans to find these rebels and test their metal. He had not been impressed with their refusal to try and save even one of the villagers. Hans had pointed out the men who had argued, who had tried to rise, but had been pulled back to the earth. It was for this intervention, he had been tasked with this visit.
“Find yourself and the Dark Falcons some men,†Jax had said and Hans had accepted the challenge gladly. He spoke quietly into his headset and stood. His men appeared on his sensors as small blips as they descended towards the campsite. Hans grinned to himself as he thought of the surprise they were about to spring. Checking through his weapons, he received confirmation that his squad was in place and gave the order to fire.
*
Kearney was rudely woken from his sleep. Hot embers from the fire had been turned into charcoal shrapnel by the exploding missile. Hans’ man had aimed true; direct casualties were minimal, although the whistling chunks of flame burned many. Gasping for breath, his ears still ringing from the weapon’s impact, Ioin looked around frantically for the source of the sorcerous noise. He found it.
Leaping and bounding down the hill towards him, came a group of what could only be demons. Their matt black bodies gave off the dull reflection of metal and from their arms speared forth intense beams of light. Whatever it touched flamed into inexistence. Suddenly, Kearney felt cowed, how had he ever thought that he could kill one of these things.
Fear turned into anger as he drew his pistol and fired at the nearest. The ball struck was harmlessly brushed away. In desperation he called to his men and set off at a flat run towards the main tent. Positioned there was a mobile field piece, perhaps the only thing that could be used against this these creatures. He was gratified to see his squad rushing towards him, many in a state of undress, yet discipline remained.
The first there, he tried to manhandle the unwieldy weapon around, but it was only when Black Conn, his huge wildly bearded second-in-command, reached him that the job became easier. He screamed at his men to load and prime the weapon, glad that its flintlock firing mechanism would make things easier. At last it was ready and he ordered everyone back. Conn followed his instructions, centring its barrel on the largest of the fleet monsters. With a wild cry he fired it and was momentarily blinded by its muzzle flash. When he could see again, the monster was gone.
Loud cheers quickly became groans as they saw the demon rise from the floor, a smoking dent visible in its chest. Its arm turned towards them and a pure beam of energy licked out and touched the gun’s barrel, melting the metal as though it were a child’s toy.
“To me!†screamed Kearney, pulling free his sword and running towards the thing. Not one of his men failed him, even when the monster spoke.
“My turn, now,†its voice was deep, stentorian and it walked purposefully forward.
Kearney was the first to reach it and swung his sword. There was a clang as it struck, the rebound of the blow numbing his hand and causing it to fall. Conn swung a huge pole at it, Kearney realising that it was the tool used to load the cannon, just as it snapped in two over the demon’s skull.
With one swing of its arm, the thing swept Conn aside and moved to grasp him, a fusillade of rifle fire ignored as it’s strange metal hand reached down. Ioin leapt on its back, burning his hand as he hung on. He heard a throaty chuckle, just before he rose into the air, flames spurting under his feet.
*
Hans was confident that he had found his men. The big one was almost of a size to be called an Elemental. Even though he had tapped him hard with his power claw, the gigantically muscled man was struggling to his feet. He jumped higher, the young leader still clinging to his back, and ordered another missile strike. The projectile weapon had been a surprise and he assumed that he would have some bruises in the morning. Wary of any other unexpected weaponry, he decided to play safe.
Two SRM’s were enough. They pounded the ground in the centre of the encampment, shooting brick and earth high into the air. Machine guns were then used to shatter the rest of any defiance and Hans’ boomed demand for surrender was soon complied with. The only one who ignored him and still tried to reach him with a sword, was the black-bearded giant below.
Hans grinned. At least there would be one or two worth breaking. He cut his jets, dropping to the ground with a jarring crash. Ioin fell senselessly to the floor, next to Conn, who he had been knocked down once more. As the blackness rolled over him, he cursed his desire to search the demons out. It seemed that someone had been listening.
-
Chapter Three
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“So,†said Gaius Augustus, “how was your visit to see the Demons?â€
He was sprawled over his chair, a golden bowl of fruit held close to his right hand by one of his female servants. Another combed his hair with her fingers and a third was acting as his stool.
“There were no Demons, My Emperor,†replied Julius, casting an appraising eye over the women.
“Just as I suspected,†nodded the Emperor sagely, “I suppose it was the rebels again?â€
“How did you know?†asked Julius, feigning surprise, “Ah, of course, you know everything.â€
The Emperor stared at him, looking to see if his General was overstepping the mark, but Julius was far too good an actor to be caught out so easily.
“There was a massacre,†Julius confirmed, “but we caught up with and dealt with the rebellious pigs.â€
Gaius Augustus clapped his hands with glee, “Well done. For your efforts you will be well rewarded, but for now I have another small task for you.â€
“Whatever you wish...†began Julius, but was interrupted as the door burst open and a bloody and dishevelled officer was half-carried, half-pushed in front of the Emperor.
“Speak!†squealed the Emperor, his voice breaking with his passion.
“We were ambushed...many men lost...did our best...â€
Gaius kicked his human footstool aside, sending her skittering across the floor.
“Worm!†he spat, “How dare you come before your Emperor in this state?â€
Now he aimed a kick with his sandaled foot at the unfortunate man, screaming in pain as he stubbed his toes. He turned to the General in childish pique.
“Do you see the worthless soldiery with which I am cursed? Take this man away. Find out what he knows and punish those responsible. Do not bother to return if you failâ€
For one moment, the General’s mask slipped, but lucky for him the Emperor had turned away, to heap derision on the man cowering before him. Keep it up, urged Julius silently, and no-one will oppose anything I do. He allowed himself a small smile before he motioned to the guards to drag the bleeding man away.
*
Once more Julius led his men from the city. This time a regiment of foot soldiers marched behind him. Drums beat, fifes played and the populace cheered him. The Emperor stood on the terrace of his palace, absently waving a silken handkerchief in approbation. Their hero went to war with the flower of the city’s soldiery. Those left behind were the young and old, courtiers and senate members. None who could later refuse Julius’ triumphant entry at the head of a victorious army.
He had no intention of wasting these resources in a futile punitive mission. Orders had been sent out to sympathetic officers and his rendezvous had been chosen, only a day and a half from the city. Artillery pieces had been drawn from the front lines, infantry and cavalry detached from their places where they guarded important routes into the city, but Julius was not worried. This would be a swift and bloody campaign, after which he could deal with the rebels once and for all.
Had he not organised a temporary truce with his enemy, with promises made he had no intention of keeping? Even now, their leader waited for his invitation to the crowning of the new Emperor. Julius laughed uproariously, the world was full of fools.
-
Elana stood in front of the thirty or so young men before her. They had formed into two rough groups, holding to their previous allegiances. She needed to break them, before giving them a new identity and it would start now. Without speaking, she began to draw a rough circle in the bare earth.
Jax had picked this mountain retreat as a suitable base. A high-walled fortress sat on the side of the mountain, with a winding rough stone road leading up to it. Apparently it had belonged to some ancient robber and when they had arrived had been in ruins. Dark Falcon Techs had reduced the unusable buildings to rubble and erected temporary acommodation as well as reinforcing the walls. A flat landing site had been prepared and Elana and her people had been brought here by shuttle. Now, laser emplacements protected the only road and a large banner fluttered in the breeze, above the main gates.
“You,†she began, “are scum. Unworthy to be called Dark Falcons. Perhaps one or two of you have something within worthy of the name, but I am not sure. Lieutenant Jax believes so and because of that, I am willing to waste some of my valuable time on you.â€
She stepped out of the rough circle and nodded to Hans who had been assigned to this training detail. He now stomped forward, towering above the new bondsmen, and carried on where Elana had left off.
“This,†he said, “is a Circle of Equals. All disputes will be settled within it. Any failure to obey this basic rule will be dealt with severely. Now, I have seen some of you try to fight and to be truthful have been little impressed. As an example to you all, I assume that there are those amongst who disagree with me? Well within this Circle you may prove your point.â€
He laid down his weapons, divesting himself of his pistol and knife. Then he removed his tunic and stood, bare-chested before them. There was a murmur of appreciation at his hugely muscled frame, which was silenced by a furious glare from Elana.
“What,†she sneered, as none stepped forward, “is there no honour amongst your kind? It seems that I was right. Worthless surats!â€
Kearney’s group parted and the burly figure of Conn pushed his way through. He too removed his tunic and received encouraging pats from his companions.
“Are there any rules?†asked Ioin as he massaged the back of the big man’s neck.
“Ah, yes,†said Elana, “Hans, you may not kill him.â€
Hans smiled and nodded, beckoning Conn forward. He was caught off guard by Conn’s speed. A right hand flashed out, smashing his head back and was followed by a terrific hook to his mid-section. A grunt of pain slipped out as the blow landed, but he avoided the stomp to his kneecap. Rubbing his stomach gingerly he circled away and was ready for the next attack.
Kearney’s men were cheering in encouragement and even Arn felt some respect for the huge rebel. What happened next was almost too quick to follow. As Conn struck, Hans moved inside the blow catching the trailing wrist and dragging his opponent down as he twisted. The momentum of the movement drew Conn’s face level with Hans’ knee, which rose to meet it. There was a crunch of bone and Conn’s head slammed backwards as blood sprayed out.
Letting go off the man’s wrist, Hans stepped back and drove his front foot deep into his opponent’s stomach. With a whoosh of escaping air, Conn doubled over exposing his neck to Hans’ elbow strike.
“Hans!†cautioned Elana and he changed his blow. He had time to recover from the killing strike. A step to the side, a swivel of his hips and his fist cleanly clipped Black Conn behind the ear. His feet slid out from underneath and he crashed unconscious to the floor.
Elana picked up a handily placed bucket of water and tossed it over Conn, who roused spluttering and swinging his hands wildly. She easily picked him up, avoiding his flailing fists and pushed him into his comrades’ arms.
“A good start,†she said and then turned to Arn, “you are next.â€
Arn nodded and stripped off his tunic. He wanted someone to fight and although he had seen the punishment meted out to Conn, did not care. Anger washed over him, yet he controlled it, his fury ice-cold. Jeers and cat-calls came from the rebels, but ne merely pushed them out of his mind.
He was leanly muscled, working in the fields with his father every day, before joining the army. His mother said he followed more in the footsteps of his grandfather and Arn smiled in remembrance of the old man.
Hans grinned at him, “Confident are we?â€
There was no reply and Hans narrowed his eyes. This one would not waste his breath, he reminded him of Kahn Sheehan. The same cold gaze and determined set of features. For the first time, a flutter of worry entered the Elemental’s mind, but was quickly banished.
“Finish it quickly,†said Elana, “we have work to do.â€
Again this was accompanied by jeers and as Hans looked to Elana, Arn struck. His back leg swept round, taking the full torque of his body in its movement. It slammed against Hans’ ribs, the toe of his boot striking the same place as Conn’s blow. He smashed his forearm into the big man’s temple as the first blow landed, staggering him.
Reflexively, Hans’ huge arms circled him, pulling Arn forward. It gave Hans a brief respite and he shoved Arn away, sending short, sharp jabs into the young man’s face. Now it was Arn’s turn to reel drunkenly and one smashing right dropped him to one knee. He rolled away before Hans could land the next punch, staggering to his feet. Arn shook his head to clear and almost missed the Dark Falcon’s next punch. Had it landed, it would have all been over. As it was, Arn ducked his head and took the blow on the top of his skull. Even so, his vision began to blacken.
He snarled and leapt at Hans, his surprise attack letting him inside the big man’s guard. A right to the face and a left to the body, pushed Hans back to the edge of the circle. As Arn drew his leg back to strike, Hans swept his back leg away, slamming him to the floor. One knee pressed gently against Arn’s neck cutting off his air supply. He snarled in frustration and tried to rise. Hans looked across at Elana and seeing her stern face, hit the young man cleanly.
The same treatment was given to Arn, yet the most unusual thing to happen was when Black Conn pushed his stunned companions aside and helped Arn to his feet.
“He almost had me,†said Hans in quiet voice to Elana.
“I know,†she replied, “interesting, no?â€
-
Kearney could not understand Conn’s reaction; this was an Emperor-loving enemy. Who had no doubt killed and tortured many of their own kin. He pushed through the group surrounding the recovering pair and spoke harshly to a surprised Hans.
“I have a grievance,†he snarled, “for the Circle of Equals.â€
“With me, nestling?†asked Hans smiling.
“No,†spat Ioin, his finger shooting outwards as he turned, “with him!â€
Elana saw that he pointed at the recently defeated Arn, who even now was just staggering to his feet, with the help of Conn.
“What is this grievance,†asked Elana, puzzled. These recruits had only been brought together today and even now were beginning to bond. This could shatter them totally, or, it could unite them stronger than before. She could see the disgust on the big one’s face and the embarrassment of others within the original rebel faction.
“Why are you doing this, Ioin?†growled Conn, his arm still supporting Arn.
“His kind killed my family,†and turning to the others, “and many of yours. One little fight and you’ve already forgotten years of torture, imprisonment and death in the name of their cursed Emperor. Well, I have not. We are better than that.â€
Hans saw Conn move slightly away from Arn, and the two separate factions begin to reform. This would not do, yet before he could speak, Elana interrupted Kearney’s flow of vituperation.
“I have already told you that you are now Bondsmen of the Dark Falcon Clan. The past does not exist, yet you would cling to some false idea of supremacy. An idealised belief in being better than the rest. Very well, I will allow this, but first Arn needs to learn a little more about the truth surrounding the massacre.â€
She saw Kearney pale, yet he held his ground. Conn’s face was puzzled as he stared at his companions. Again there was a mix of shame and lack of understanding. Elana knew then that this would work, as long as she could give Arn some reason to fight.
“Our cameras saw everything. As you have been shown,†and here she talked directly to Arn, “your once Emperor ordered the massacre of your village. What you did not know was that a group of rebels stood by and watched. They made no effort to intervene, and he,†she pointed dramatically at Kearney, “was one of them!â€
Certainty of his involvement was not necessary, just the accusation, but when she saw Kearney’s face and that of two others, she knew that she had struck home. The anger on Conn’s face was immediate, but it was nothing to the icy fury which calmed that of Arn.
“Is this true?†he hissed, the flickering eyes of Kearney betraying his answer, even before he spoke.
“We were following orders, there was nothing...†began Ioin, but Arn would not let him continue.
“Do not tell me there was nothing you could have done. I have never done anything against your family, I joined the army but a few short weeks ago. That said, I accept my responsibility for believing in the Emperor. Ignorance is no excuse. However, a man would not have been able to stand idly by and see innocents slaughtered, irrespective of their beliefs. And you have the gall to accuse me?
“I will fight you. Not to salve your injured pride, but because you deserve it.â€
With that Arn threw off the supporting hands and strode into the circle, blood still dribbling from his bruised face. Ioin turned to face Conn, but the big man looked away, unable to believe that his friend could have done such a thing, yet knowing it was true.
Kearney shucked off his jacket. He would show them. His shame for his actions had been overcome by the jealousy he had felt in seeing his position usurped. Even now, he justified all that he had done to himself, as he did his certainty in the defeat of Arn. For him, there would be no rules. The village boy would die and once again he would rightfully lead.
“No rules!†he snarled as he entered the circle, twisting his body from side-to-side as he limbered up.
Arn did not answer. A freezing fire burned outwards from his eyes, he was ready.
Kearney wanted to humiliate Arn. In his mind’s eye, he saw himself beating the man to a pulp, and with a disdainful sneer, he launched his front foot forward. It was the last thing he would ever do.
Blindingly fast, Arn’s left forearm blocked Ioin’s rising knee. His right hand shot outwards, palm open and fingers curled. He had heard and been shown much by his Grandfather, but this was something else. Ripping the life from his enemy was what he needed and his knuckles punched into the flesh of Kearney’s throat. They destroyed the man’s windpipe, crushing it instantaneously, but it was insufficient and he struck again into the depression already created. This time his digits dug into flesh and tore it free, a contemptuous boot flinging the dying man to the floor. Not waiting to see the results of his actions, Arn turned away.
“Now that one,†said Elana in a hushed whisper to Hans, “is definitely a Dark Falcon.â€
-
Chapter Four
General Aquilla yawned and stretched lazily. He had slept well, the last of his forces arriving early in the morning. All of the troops were bedded down and he only waited for his commanders to join him. Not that much further planning was needed, as he had spent months organising the disposition of his forces in his head. His stay in the city had also served him well. Each defensive position had been studied and their weaknesses identified.
Idly, he picked at some fruit, as he studied the simple map laid out before him. The main gate would be his target. Although in appearance it was the strongest position, years of neglect had meant that its stoutness was questionable. Insects had attacked the wood and laziness its defenders.
Buildings had been constructed more to house the Emperor’s growing army of courtiers and slaves, rather than with thought for a potential attack. Still through, the main thoroughfare had been left open. It was a well-paved and glorious route which led directly to the palace itself. He would change things once he had made his last triumphal entrance to the city as a General, that was certain.
The sound of men’s voices signalled the arrival of his subordinates and with a wry smile, General Julius Aquilla opened his tent flap and welcomed them inside.
*
Jax stared at the holo-image before him. Elias had been monitoring the troop movements outside the Imperial city and it was obvious, that this morning would bring unwelcome visitors. He had, at first, thought about using an alliance with the Emperor as a means of consolidating the Dark Falcons position on this world. Apart from rest and recreation, they needed a base for recruitment and resupply. Their rapid exit from known space had left them with extremely limited resources.
The jumpship itself, was even now being repaired as was the destroyer which had been docked specifically for that purpose. FedCom personnel had been re-educated and were now working alongside their ex-enemies. Still, with only five Omnifighters, twenty suits of working battle armour and three Mechs, they were particularly short-handed.
Mechs, he thought, well they resembled the huge machines in shape and structure, but were units taken out of frontline service and their pilots were even now still recovering from their injuries, suffered during their attack on the jumpship near Winfield. They desperately needed more personnel and he was sure that the new training camp would bear fruit.
These men would be trained initially to fight as a unit with autorifles and crew-served weapons. Elias was confident that he could manufacture powered armour, but that would take time and resources. In the meantime, they would have to conserve their more advanced weaponry until they really needed it.
Jax had no intention of striking out for known space, until he had a full complement of men and weapons. So, he leaned over the image again and studied the ground described there. They could not afford for the city and its technology, however weak compared to theirs, to be destroyed.
Unfortunately, he could not yet intervene fully without expending valuable resources.
The irony of the incident at the training base did not escape him. He would sit by and watch this assault take place. Not through weakness, but rather through necessity. His priority was the Dark Falcons and returning them to fight at their Khan’s side. Everything else must come a poor second.
-
*
Gaius Augustus was woken from his nap by a roaring sound. The earth trembled beneath his bare feet and his stomach fat rippled where it bulged over his pants. Blearily he opened one eye as the roaring came again.
“Will someone tell me what that is, and kill whoever is responsible?†he screamed in the general direction of his attending courtier.
The man looked extremely nervous and was glad for the rapid pounding on the throne room’s door and the hasty entrance of an officer.
“Ah, perhaps you can help?†he asked disarmingly.
“Soldiers are assaulting the city,†gasped the man, forgetting his manners in his haste.
“Soldiers?†the Emperor’s voice now rose in timbre, in line with his agitation.
“General Aquilla has returned,†said the man nodding his head, “and is firing cannons at the main gate.â€
“Liar!†shouted the Emperor, “He would not do that. Take this impudent fool away and kill him!â€
With that Gaius Augustus the Third slumped back into his chair. The roaring grew louder now and was interspersed with frightened screams. He turned to his courtier pleadingly.
“He wouldn’t do that, would he? Not, my General...â€
*
The initial attack had gone exactly to plan. His field artillery had been moved close to the city early in the dawn light and as the sun broke through the clouds, begun firing. Shot screamed towards the main gates, hammering into the surrounding brickwork and sending wood splinters hurtling skyward. This bombardment had continued long after the shattered remains of the doors hung limply from their massive frames.
Elevation of their barrels caused the iron missile to arc up over the walls and fall indiscriminately onto the buildings behind. Aquilla wanted to make a point.
Soldiers returned to the walls as it became obvious that the cannons had changed their aim and larger pieces began to bark out a response, targeting the guns themselves. Infantry scurried out from the main and side gates and began to take up a defensive position. It was whilst they were still engaged in forming their rank and file that Aquilla sent in his cavalry. They had been moved to positions flanking the main gate and now raced over the small hillocks screening them. Their sabres were free as they leant down, hugging their horse’s necks for protection. Some defenders fired at them, knocking men from their mounts, but it was unorganised. With a triumphant whooping they were among the infantry.
Blades rose and fell with precision, carving a bloody path through the desperate defender It was then that Julius moved in with his men and the packed rows of infantry. There would be losses, but the cannons were in fixed embrasures as he well knew. They had limited reserves of ammunition and their crews more ornamental than battle ready. As his weapons continued to pour out destruction he gleefully urged his men on.
*
“Sir?†Elias asked the pensive Jax, “what are we going to do? They are shelling indiscriminately.â€
Jax stared as part of the poorer section of the city was hit. Fires had started and were greedily destroying the cheaply constructed homes. Nearby was the industrial district which housed their factories and warehousing. This was a disaster. It appeared that this jumped-up General cared nothing for the people and was more intent on murdering his way to power. That it was the same man who had led the massacre of villagers was obvious.
“We cannot stand by any longer,†he said decisively, “we must act. I have no love for this Emperor, nor his minions, but the city, its people and resources must be protected. Get me Greta and have the fighters scrambled.â€
Elias laughed to himself as Jax rushed away. It was so like the man to justify the intervention because of the valuable resources. Well, so be it, he thought, battlefield salvage was always his favourite part.
*
Julius led his men through the gates and let them free. A little rape and pillage would satisfy their baser emotions and in the meantime he could conquer an Empire. Afterwards, there would be time to win over the populace. The crackle of musket fire ahead spoke of some troops still loyal to the Emperor and he spurred his horse forward to join the fight. It was as he entered the main square that the sky was filled with projectiles. They rained downwards, fire streaming from them as they broke open and deposited their charges. The ground trembled with their coming and Julius fought hard to restrain his frightened mount.
Flames licked around their bodies as they floated to earth. These must be the demons! Their description fit; almost human-like, clad in strange armour with powerful weapons which burnt and tore through troops as though they were not there.
“Fire!†he screamed at the top of his voice, and then “Charge!â€
General Julius Aquilla did not follow his men to their death. He watched as their volley fire was swept aside, one of the demons spraying them with something. It was as though a full company of men fired which each sweep of the thing’s arm. Men were plucked away, projectiles knocking them from their feet with ease. Blood pooled on the floor amidst their shattered remains.
Something flew from another’s shoulder with a roar of smoke and flame. It slammed into his charging cavalry throwing men and beasts wildly into the air, broken body and animal parts falling in a crimson rain. A voice boomed forth, calling for their surrender, but the General did not wait to hear or see any more. He turned his horse’s head for the gate urged it into a mindless gallop. Escape was his only priority.
Jax watched them flee and let them go. His Elementals would be busy dealing with those soldiers left within the city precincts. It would probably be better that his men summarily dealt with them, rather than an enraged citizenry. Now he needed to deal with this self-proclaimed Emperor. He had no reason to believe that he was any better than the man he had just driven away.
The scream of fighters overhead and the crunch of munitions told him that the rout was in full flow.
“Let them go,†he transmitted wearily, “they are of no threat.â€
“That may well be a mistake,†grumbled Greta, by his side.
“Then we will pay for it later,†said Jax, “murder is not part of our remit.â€
Greta said nothing as she followed up the steps to the palace, but could not shake the feeling that when the day came, the bill would be heavy.
-
Gaius Augustus stared in mute disbelief at the demon as he mounted the steps to the throne. He still found it hard to credit the wild stories brought to his ears, but here was one of the creatures in the flesh. It was armoured in black with a curious emblem on its left shoulder; a stylised bird in black on green. Another two stomped into the room, turning to face outwards their arms held at chest height.
The first stopped in front of him, its facial covering reflected the overblown face before it. A deep rumbling bass voice rolled out, seeming as though it materialised from thin air.
“I would normally expect a thank you, for what we have done here today,†said Jax, “but having seen the deplorable manner in which you treat your people, it will no doubt not be forthcoming.â€
The speech was archaic, stilted, yet understandable and Gaius reacted in his usual manner.
“Who are you to...â€
The roaring stutter of Jax’s machine gun shattered the silence. Chips of marble ricocheted round the room as the once powerful Emperor squealed in terror. His hands covered his sparse pate as he mewled in terror, whilst his courtier fainted.
“Don’t interrupt. It’s rude.†Said Jax flatly, “Now where was I? Oh, yes. We have intervened because we could not stand by and watch the needless slaughter of your people. Even now, my troops are dealing with the remains of your attacker’s forces and then we will be taking over your city.
“As of now, martial law is in effect. A curfew will be set and we will enforce it strictly. I wish to meet with your leading council members, or whatever you call them immediately.â€
The Emperor began to cry and in disgust, Jax turned to the now recovering courtier.
“You,†he said, will...â€
Any comment he had to make was cut short, as the poor fell back to the floor, shaking with terror.
“Elias,†said JAx into his transmitter, “I need you and your team down here quickly. We have an awful lot of work to do.â€
*
Elana watched as her recruits attempted to traverse the newly constructed assault course. Others had been brought to the training camp and she had split them into five teams of eight. By far the team showing the greatest promise was that led by Arn. They were an even mix of old enemies and had gelled quickly after the death of Kearney. Black Conn had immediately fallen into his new role of second-in-command to Arn, and none dared dispute his authority. The others were responding well, but she sensed something in the determined face of Arn and was accelerating their training.
Hans continued to try and beat them into submission, both physically and mentally and they were pushed the hardest of all. She had heard from Jax of his intervention in the city and approved wholeheartedly. They needed a solid base of operations, although from all reports the city was in a poor state of repair and would not be easy to defend.
The roar of an approaching engine announced the arrival of the shuttle, with a new cargo of fresh meat for her own particular grinder. It appeared that Jax had already been hard at work, selecting those he thought had potential. Her barked order brought the recruits from their exercise. They ran and formed two lines near the rear of the craft. As the door opened and ex-soldiers of the Emperor disembarked, the jeers and cat-calls began. This tunnel of shame was only the first of many indignities that would be heaped upon them. Well, if it did not kill them...
-
Chapter Five
Nearly three weeks had passed. Elias and his team had worked wonders. They had immediately taken over the running of the foundries and gunpowder factories. What they had found had given them a good starting point, but new formulas had been introduced, specifically in the fabrication of metals. Their immediate priority was the retooling of equipment and energy sources, in order to install the basis for mass production.
Specialized equipment had been ferried down via shuttle and today they had produced for inspection, the first of the new weapons. In no way could they hope to mimic any of the Clan Technology en masse. That would take time and much more sophisticated industrial development. What they had done was advance the weaponry of the Empire hundreds of years, by an amalgam of knowhow and existing capabilities.
Jax turned the rifle in his hands over, whilst Elias described it. They had taken the propellant fuel and improved it immensely. Also the rifled barrel and the brass shells gave the weapon a huge advantage over anything that already existed on the planet. Magazined weapons were still a little way off, but the breech-loaded rifle and its manual sights had stunned the local soldiery. Cannons had also been modified and the new weapons boasted improved rounds, including shrapnel, canister and high explosive.
Elana had been training her new charges intensively and they would be presented with the first of the new rifles as part of their passing out parade. They were well-versed in the general principles and extra drills had been given with mock-ups.
The ceremonial cutting of their Bondcords and acceptance into the Dark Falcon Clan would come first though. There was one squad which would be trusted with existing laser and autorifles. Its initial eight members had been expanded to sixteen and showed great promise. They would be part of the new elite force and would be welcomed directly into Jax’s Infantry.
“This is excellent, Elias,†said Jax, handing the rifle back to the Tech.
“It is the best that we could do,†replied Elias self-depreciatingly, “for now.â€
“And it is more than enough to deal with any threat we could face on this planet,†Jax commented, moving to the window overlooking the parade ground.
“Of that, I am not certain,†Elias said, “so we are working on more formal and standard body armour, non-powered.â€
“You think that General Julius could be a threat to us?†Jax asked.
“If not directly to ourselves, then to our plans, yes I do. We have also been picking up some strange readings through our spysweeps...â€
“What sort of readings?†questioned Jax.
“Energy leakage. Very old, but still there. Once we have this first group of recruits integrated into our forces, I would like to investigate it further.â€
Jax smiled at him, “Are you thinking that there might be some hidden Tech cache here, Elias?â€
“Not exactly,†said the Tech musingly, “but these people got here somehow. I would like to find out when and how, if I can.â€
“Very well,†agreed Jax, “once we have Hans’ unit incorporated, you can take them out for a trial run.â€
Elias nodded and joined Jax by the window. Elana’s voice rang out clearly. Ranks of men formed up and his pride stirred as he saw them clad in the distinctive raiment of their new Clan.
*
The cart rolled slowly southwards. It had been a long and pitiful journey, the small caravan surrounding it unused to arduous travel. Gaius Augustus sat imperiously on a small seat, a courtier holding a parasol above his head. He had been given a simple choice by Jax; leave with what he could carry, or stay and die. Surprisingly a number of his courtiers and guards had chosen to accompany him exile. These were the meaner of his people, those who had stood to suffer the most under the new regime.
Some of the more self-serving of them had already left, taking their and others belongings, so it was a much poorer, hot and tired ex-Emperor who now ruled over little but this small band.
Their direction had been chosen with some thought, Gaius thinking that some of his minor cities would still not have heard of the loss of his throne. He intended to reach one of his lesser palaces and resurrect his life there, in relative safety and comfort. His thoughts were rudely interrupted by a terrified shout from his men at the front of the caravan and he watched open/mouthed as they raced past him on their mounts. All the while, they cast fearful glances over their shoulders.
Gaius strained his eyes to see what could have caused the commotion and was rewarded with a puff of smoke. Something whizzed past his ear, striking the parasol carrying courtier and covering him in a sudden fountain of blood. He squealed with fright and tried to bury his way into the back of the cart. It was in this position that Julius Aquilla found him, his rear stuck high in the air and his head amongst silken coverings.
“My Dear Emperor,†he said as he withdrew his sabre from its scabbard, “you cannot imagine how pleased I am to see you.â€
-
Wind howled past his face as Arn poked his head out of the shuttle’s cargo door. If he had been impressed by the laser rifle he had been given, then this machine had stunned him. He had seen it fly a number of times, but apart from his time as a prisoner and then recruit, he had never travelled in it. Behind him, his squad were checking over their new weapons, body armour and communications equipment. What had seemed like sorcery only a few weeks before, was now accepted as common place.
Their black combat fatigues still looked new and shiny, but that was not through lack of effort in dirtying them. Arn thought it was rather due to the presence of Black Conn, who had adopted him and by default the rest of the squad. The fight with their Elemental leader Hans had instilled respect in the men, yet it was Arn’s battle they remembered with pride.
None now wore the cord of Bondsmen and instead sported the Dark Falcon badge on the left shoulder of their tunics. It seemed that the distinctions between them had also disappeared, and in that the tenets of Clan life had been beneficial. He heard the clump of Han’s armoured feet behind him and turned.
“We are nearing the next search area,†said Hans, “Elias is convinced that this is the one.â€
Arn laughed, “Again? That’s the third sure thing in a row.â€
Hans joined in with his laughter for a moment and then became more serious, “Elias is almost always right and he is looking nervous about these readings. Make sure you are ready for any eventuality.â€
With a grunted affirmative, Arn moved back to join his men, a bad feeling settling into the pit of his stomach.
*
The shuttle passed over a small mountain range and began its descent to the pre-chosen landing site. It was a cautious landing, Elias scanning the area with his equipment before finally giving the green light for a landing. He was thorough, as was his want, and used a full range of spectrum analysis in his search for the mysterious energy readings.
Deep inside the mountain, a small light began to blink. It was housed inside a metal cabinet and faded almost to inexistence before becoming stronger. Others joined it, at first timidly and then whole-heartedly. Cabinet after cabinet shone brilliantly, machines began to whirr and the mountain woke from it slumber.
“Frak!†cursed Elias as his readings screamed at him, “Get us out of here!â€
“What?†asked the astonished pilot.
“Just do it!†shouted Elias as the surface of the mountain began to shudder with the awakening of the beast within in. It was then that the pilot’s own alarms began to squeal furiously and he turned an astonished face to the almost apoplectic Elias, “Freebirth!†he cursed, “We are being scanned, and....someone has a lock on us. A...missile lock!â€
*
The now self-acclaimed Emperor Julius was in his private quarters, admiring himself in his new finery when the officer rushed in, babbling. He calmly raised his hand and struck the fool across the mouth stopping him in mid-tirade.
“Is this how you approach your Emperor?†he snapped as the man wiped a small trickle of blood from the corner of his mouth.
“No,†he replied, dropping to one knee and bowing his head, “forgive me, please, but the news is so great, that I forgot myself.â€
“Speak, then,†said Julius, “but remember that your life perhaps hangs now on a thread. This had better be worth it.â€
“They’ve woken,†he said, turning a beaming face to his new Emperor, “as was foretold, the Gods have woken!â€
*
“What is it?†asked Hans, as Elias frantically punched buttons on his terminal.
“An automated Defence System,†replied the Tech, “very old and seemingly tetchy. It is trying to communicate with us, but I think that we are only going to get one chance at confirmation, before it attacks us.â€
“Well punch in the right code then,†said Hans dismissively.
“There is where we have our problem,†said Elias, “I have absolutely no idea what the correct code is...â€
-
Awesome!
-
Awesome!
Thankin' you, good sir ;D
Here's the next part ;)
Julius, as had many others, ignored the tales of the Gods. He had always looked at the black boxes within the various palaces as nothing more than baubles with which to impress the superstitious. Even the stories had mainly been relegated to children’s games or wrapped up into village folklore. Gaius had removed the boxes from their points of veneration within the Imperial palace and had them destroyed. Somehow, this more backward palace had been overlooked.
Now though, he was having an epiphany. The matt black box sparkled with a myriad of racing lights and his men kneeled in adoration before it. A strange voice crackled into existence and Julius almost joined his men, but restrained the urge to crash to the floor by their side.
“Unidentified craft detected. Permission to execute Emperor Protocol requested...â€
The voice stalled and then started again, repeating the same phrase over and over again. Emperor Aquilla noticed his men watching him and spoke to the strange flashing object.
“This is Emperor Julius Aquilla, who are you?â€
“Voice pattern match not accepted,†said the voice, “please confirm execution of Emperor Protocol...â€
“I am the Emperor,†shouted Julius, “you will obey me!â€
“Voice pattern corrupted,†replied the disembodied voice, “implementation of Defence Protocol Alpha Two Three Zero will initiate in Three, Two, One...â€
All lights ceased to flash and their Gods died before them.
*
The pilot had moved them further from the mountain itself, before dropping Hans and his squad to earth. Elias joined them and they cautiously approached on foot.
Seismic action rocked the surrounding earth, knocking men from their feet with its violent action.
“Earthquake?†asked Hans.
“Not exactly,†replied Elias, “Look!â€
From the top of the mountain four metallic objects pushed forth. They were in a rough square and began to shine in the reflected sunlight. Higher and higher they rose, their tapering points spearing skywards. With a final rumble they locked into place and a low hum could be heard.
“This is Jax,†the voice broke into Hans’ headset, “What is going on? Our sensors report major seismic activity in your area.â€
“You would not believe us...†said an astonished Elias.
“Oh, I think that I might,†answered Jax, “That is if you were to tell me it had something to do with the distress beacon that has just activated.â€
“Distress beacon?†now Elias was surprised.
“That is what we believe it to be,†Jax said, “it is a constant pulse and directed on a tight beam.â€
“What are your orders?†broke in Hans.
“Shut off the signal, any way that you can. I am sending you reinforcements as we speak and have been appraised of the potential threat of missile attack.â€
“Would not this help us in getting back to Winfield?†queried Elias.
“Perhaps,†said Jax, “but we have no idea to whom this signal is being sent, nor who might answer it. We must shut it off...before it’s too late.â€
-
Sorry, forgot to update the headings :-[
-
Chapter Six
Sound in space is like a silent scream. Momentous action dies before anyone notices it has begun. The asteroid belt which wended its way through the outer part of the planetary system had been home to cataclysmic impacts and quiet death. Today was different.
A signal pulsed steadily as it pierced the overpopulated garden of rock, before racing out into the black vacuum. On an ordinary day, the mute witnesses to its passage would have continued on their solitary gyrations. Instead, something listened. It was a vague recognition at first, centuries of meteor strikes and silent vigilance had deadened its capacity to understand, but its creators had designed well. With each pulse it became more aware, tiny circuits responding languidly to the imperative call. Some failed and were re-routed, the individual cells ignored as the machine became aware.
Automatic sub-routines began to churn, electrical impulses prodded and coaxed a response from long-dormant circuits, until a critical mass of commands was reached. Darkened caverns buried deep within cold rock were flushed with a faint glow, which strengthened. Machinery clicked and whirred into life and new machines checked and repaired where they could. Not all was successful as the complex had lain dormant far longer than anyone could have imagined. Lights dulled into non-existence as specific areas were discarded and energy was focussed on the more responsive.
Forgotten now, the signal continued its lonely journey towards the stars and its ultimate objective.
*
“Sir?â€
Jax turned towards David, who seemed more than a little agitated.
“Yes, what else have you found?â€
The Tech looked surprised, yet only for a moment.
“We are picking up an energy surge in the outer Asteroid Belt. It started a short while after the signal began. It is growing in intensity.â€
“Send our fighters out there to have a look. I think that our unexpected find has yet to deliver all of its surprises.â€
David relayed the orders as Jax looked out of the window, in the vague direction of their discovery. He had a very unpleasant feeling about all of this. An automated defence system, responsive asteroids and still the thing continued to hurl its message into space. What had they stumbled on?
*
The incoming Visigoths were detected long before they reached their target. New systems were activated in response. Rock split apart in explosive detonations, the detritus of centuries of inactivity was blown away in a few short moments. Huge steel doors were exposed which slid apart, groaning in protest. Behind them were revealed the mouths of dark tunnels at the end of which a faint glow could be seen. This glow burst into incandescence and swift and deadly shapes streaked out towards the oncoming fighters.
-
2 Thumbs.
-
Arn followed Hans up the slope. His new body armour no longer chafed in importune places and like the weight of his rifle, had over the last few weeks become a comforting friend. The Elemental could have easily outpaced them, but Elias set the pace, muttering to himself. Behind him, Arn’s men came in two tight groups, eyes scanning the surrounding terrain. Only he and Black Conn carried laser rifles, the others sported Clan autorifles. At his side hung a needle pistol on one side and an evil-looking combat knife on the other. A snug helmet topped off his uniform and it was via the transmitter set within it he heard Elias’ triumphant shout of discovery.
“Here!†he said emphatically, “This is some sort of entry point. Dig here.â€
Two of Arn’s men were detailed to excavate the area and in a short time had uncovered a sealed metallic cover. Explosive charges were placed around its circumference and with a deafening roar, the metal was torn apart. They waited for any response, but with non-forthcoming, prepared to make their entry.
“Arn,†said Hans, “I will wait for the rest of the Elementals and then assault the signal equipment externally. There is no way that any of us in power armour can fit down this tiny hole. This job is yours.â€
His response a curt nod, Arn detailed his men to their posts and watched as the first of them dropped into the black hole. He quickly followed, activating the light snapped to his harness. It was still a shock to Arn and the others the ease with which their new brothers surmounted even the most miniscule of problems. No doubt, he would eventually get used to it.
*
On flew the signal. It had reached the edge of the system when it struck its target. On the moon of the final ice-bound rock, which had mass enough to act and behave as a planet a silvery receiving dish welcomed it.
Again archaic equipment was woken, ruminating and meditating on the encoded message. This though was a much simpler installation than the others. It had only one purpose and redundancy had been over-built into its construction. There was little delay in the actuation of its tiny power plant and less in the relay of the data to its central system. In the blink of an eye the tiny electronic brain completed its singular function and the message was relayed.
This time the surge of power noted was as spectacular, as was the shortness of its duration. Equipment spoke, space folded and the new missive lanced out.
*
“How much further?†asked Arn in a whisper. The descending shaft had brought them to a sloping corridor, whose walls were illuminated by a dim light. All of his remaining men had made the descent successfully, the metallic rungs protected from the harsh attack of the air. Two of them were ahead, guns at high port as they moved cautiously forward.
“We are nearly there, according to my scans,†replied Elias, “the power source cannot be far from here.â€
There was a harsh spitting sound and the lead man dropped to the floor, his weapon clattering noisily as he clutched the red hole in his leg.
“What the ...†the other screamed in pain, as his shoulder exploded in a welter of blood and bone. Pulsing red light bathed them as a long and ululating tone crashed upon them.
“I think it knows we are here,†said Elias, just as a steel door slid into place, trapping the two wounded men on its far side, “and it’s not happy.â€
“Neither am I,†snarled Arn, grabbing the nearest of his men and tearing a satchel charge free from his pack, “my men are on the other side.â€
He spoke briefly into his comm. and slammed the explosive down by the barrier. Conn joined him, manhandling another alongside the first.
“Overkill never hurts,†the big man said, grinning at Arn.
“Certainly when we’re in a hurry,†Arn replied, setting the charge, “time to take cover, I think.â€
The two men raced after the others, diving to earth as the world turned red and rock-covered. Staring back down the corridor, Arn could see the door twisted to one side.
“Move!†he roared, as he tore back down towards his injured men. There was a whirring sound and the hiss of escaping air. Slivers of metal streaked after them, as the defence system finally awoke to the threat.
“I’m not happy,†snarled Arn as he bundled Elias to one side. The whickering sound of passing rounds seemed constant now. His men clung to the floor, none of them risking raising his head.
“Fixed emplacements,†said Elias, as he studied the trajectories of the offending shots.
“What?†asked Arn, still puzzled at some of the words used by the Tech.
“The weapons cannot fire higher or lower than they are set. If we crawl, then we will get past them. Not very sophisticated.â€
Arn stared at him for a moment, wondering if the man was joking, but Elias only smiled back.
“You heard the man!†he shouted, “on your bellies and let’s go!â€
*
“That is impossible!†the startled exclamation of the lead fighter pilot echoed in the Jax’s control room.
“What do you see?†he asked urgently.
“We have incoming fighters, at least fifteen. They appear to have been launched from within the Asteroid Belt itself...â€
“Whose are they?†Jax interrupted insistently.
“That is what I find hard to believe,†came the response, “they are emitting a warning. Wait ... evasive manoeuvres, now!â€
“What is happening?†Jax’s frustration at his inability to see what was going on had filtered into the tone of his voice.
“We are under attack,†came the strained reply, “but not from all of them. Some are headed your way, directly.â€
-
The Clan Watch was a curious body. It was founded by Nicholas Kerensky to spy on Clan Wolverine, and its functions were considered un-Clanlike by many. There were adherents who understood the worth of these warriors and scientists and utilised their intelligence gathering and scouting skills. Almost classed as lower than solahma units by many, Clan Jade Falcon and in particular Kael Pershaw saw the inherent worth of their actions. It was one such scientist who first heard the strange signal.
He, like many of his Watch brothers, was sat in front of scanning equipment, scouring the channels for any intercepted message or interesting communication. So, it was with surprise he picked up the archaic and yet urgent signal. Immediately he relayed it to his Khan and his interpretation of its significance. No report was ever sent to the IlKhan, as practice demanded, rather Pershaw mobilised a warship specifically to find and take advantage of the promised riches.
*
Within the Deep Periphery, others received the urgent missive. They were the owners of the rightful destination of the signal, yet had long given up hope of ever hearing it. Centuries had passed, the lost parties forgotten of except in story books and government records. When the receiving devices sparked into life though, everything changed.
Immediately an expedition was organised, well equipped with both civilian and military resources. This was the unlooked for blessing, the fountain of youth, the answer to all of their dreams. Money and prestige could be gained on the back of this discovery and all wanted to be a part of it.
*
Emperor Julius kicked the now dead box and struck at it with his sword. Nothing worked, it refused to listen to any of his Imperial commands. When he had run out of curses and most of his breath, he stopped and, chest heaving, tried to make sense of it all. It was then reports began to arrive, of the flying machine which had disappeared into the nearby mountain range. Shortly after the earth shook and then strange structures were seen blooming in the distance.
The ex-General had learnt a healthy respect for the demons, yet he had to do something. He could feel the power slipping from his hands already. Both Infantry and Artillery units had eventually made their way to him and their idleness did not bode well. Already there were rumours of discontent and he knew that the only thing which would keep them occupied was war, in one form or another.
Men still within the chamber stared worriedly at him. His towering rage had disappeared, diminishing him in their eyes. Still, they snapped to attention when he sprung into action, demanding his horse and the mobilisation of the troops. They cheered him when he spoke of how they would capture the flying machine and destroy any of the demons they found.
Many of them had not entered the city with him and so had been spared the humiliation of defeat. Very few survivors had escaped with Julius and those whose loyalty was suspected, had been reassigned, permanently. So it was that Julius once again led a body of troops to battle, who lied of the ease in which they would strike down their enemies and who even began to believe that the demons were a figment of his own imagination.
*
Arn had led his men away from the first of many ambushes. They had recovered and treated, as best they could, the two injured men and now found themselves pinned down again. Their own communications devices worked, but they could not raise Hans outside. They were on their own.
“Where are we, now,†gasped Arn, ducking down behind the remains of what Elias had called a heating unit. Lasers pierced the gloom as the complex's defences strove to eliminate their perceived threat.
“Close,†grunted Elias,“ at least with respect to the power source.â€
Ahead of them stretched a large open space. It was dimly lit, yet frequently they saw more from the intense flashes of light which streaked across it. Dark humps of blackness cast momentary shadows and they were able to inch their way forwards. Return fire had already accounted for three emplacements, yet there appeared to be many more still functioning.
“Do you have any suggestions of what we can do?†asked Arn, snapping off a shot in the general direction of the latest beam.
“Hans would be good, right about now,†returned Elias, “one or two missiles could easily sort out this problem.â€
“Well he’s not here and we have no missiles,†snapped Arn, “even if I knew what they were.â€
A deep rumble became a bass growling and Arn looked quizzically at Elias.
“You really do not want to know,†mumbled the Tech, “believe me, you do not. Things have just got a whole lot worse.â€
-
Some sort of automated SDS system perhaps?...and not a single Cameron Star yet? ;) Keep it coming!
-
Some sort of automated SDS system perhaps?...and not a single Cameron Star yet? ;) Keep it coming!
Almost, almost...but you'll just have to keep reading :-X
-
Star Commander Lee Binetti watched the sleek shapes as they swooped towards him. Their movements were crisp, each instantaneously mirroring that of its sister ship. His computer had initially had problems identifying the craft, cycling unceasingly between known Clan and Inner Sphere fighters. It had stopped warily on one shape for a moment and then began again. Finally it had come to rest on an impossibility. Here though he could see the real version flashing towards him.
The actinic pulse of PPC’s made him flip his Visigoth to one side and shout useless commands to his men. They were all veterans, their conversion from Jade Falcons had been easier for them, as they had maintained their unit and command structure. Inner Sphere pilots were hard to come by in the Dark Falcons as were more fighters. He gritted his teeth as a barrage of medium laser fire sprayed past him and cursed at the precision flying. From his read-out, Lee knew that no human pilot flew these craft. Mark 39 Voidseeker attack drones carried sophisticated battle computers and the neural net they formed together, made them deadly foes.
What they were doing here was not his main concern, rather how they could be dealt with. Once again he sent a transmission to Jax, warning him about his visitors and what he could expect as another burst of lasers narrowly missed his left wing tip.
*
“I repeat, these are SLDF attack drones,†said Jax to the listening Hans, “very fast, one heavy laser, one medium and a PPC under the nose. They were designed to be resistant to electronic counter attack.â€
“Why are they attacking us?†asked Hans as he waved the rest of his Elemental reinforcements towards cover.
“We must have woken them up, somehow,†said Jax, “and when they asked nicely who we were, we uncivilly gave the wrong answer. To add to your problems, we have detected a rather large troop movement from the nearby populated area. It seems that General Julius has not learnt his lesson.â€
“That,†said Hans flatly, “is the least of my worries. We still have no response from Arn and Elias, and unless we blow a huge hole in this hillside, there is little chance of us following them down there.â€
“That is understood. We will just have to trust that they will complete their mission,†replied Jax, “and in the meantime, get your people ready to receive visitors.â€
*
“Where did they come from?†mused Jax. It was more of a rhetorical question, but David answered anyway.
“We have tracked them back to the asteroid belt. They must have been hidden there. Data suggests that these drones were seeded quite liberally throughout known space. Their use was normally for less strategic systems. Most of them appear to have been destroyed after the Second Succession War. That is what both our and Federated Commenwealth information suggests.â€
“Well some were forgotten,†snapped Jax, “who is controlling them?â€
“Defense Satellites were speculated as being their homes, that and the larger Caspar drone warships. At least we can be thankful that it is just fighters.â€
“Knowing our luck,†mumbled Jax, “this is only the start.â€
“Once they are within range of the Defensive system on the ground,†commented David, “I would assume that control will be switched. Although they do have certain independence, even then.â€
“It seems that our only option is to blow them up,†mused Jax, “which is a shameful waste.â€
“It is not the only option,†said David, “if we could get them to recognise us, they would be a valuable addition to our forces.â€
“I assume then that you can wave a magic wand and tell them to back home,†Jax had not intended his sarcasm to slip out, but his frayed nerves were beginning to show.
“No,†David said with a grin, “but I know a man who maybe could invent the wand.â€
“Well, call him then, man,†snapped Jax.
“There is a slight problem,†David said, his voice becoming serious, “last I heard, we had lost contact with him.â€
Jax stared at David and then took his frustration out on a nearby piece of inert furniture. Could this situation get any worse?
*
“We need to move,†said Elias as the growling machine rolled forward on its huge wheels.
“What is it?†whispered Arn, awed by the huge machine.
“A light tank,†returned Elias, peering around his sparse cover, “although in our case, light really does not give it credit.â€
“How do we fight it?†there was a determined set to Arn’s face, which Elias liked.
“We do not,†he replied, “we find another way round.â€
“There’s only one of them,†Arn said sulkily.
“And if you were all in power armour, we might stand a chance. However, body armour against that thing is a recipe for disaster.â€
“It does not look dangerous…†began Arn as a bolt of light seared its way through a nearby structure, “…but then again. Move out!â€
Elias studied the machine a little more. One large laser and what looked like missile racks on the side of the turret. No, definitely not dangerous, he chuckled as he scurried after his disappearing comrades.
-
Chapter Seven
The corridor was beginning to fill with smoke as the tank continued in its vain attempt to find them. Burning debris sent its choking fingers after Arn and his men. Fortunately the computer-controlled vehicle could reach only so far into the darkness with its turret and neither could it depress the barrel sufficiently to effectively terminate this perceived threat.
“This is not working,†coughed Arn, “we need another plan.â€
Elias was staring into his scanner and Arn could almost hear the cogs within his brain functioning. Decisively the Tech half-straightened and pointed at the nearest wall.
“There is a parallel tunnel close by,†he said, “you need to create a hole, here.â€
“Is it safe?†asked Arn as he motioned Conn forwards. The big man unslung his pack and withdrew some explosive, fashioning the malleable material into a shaped charge.
Very deliberately, Elias turned to look at the tank, before returning his gaze to Arn’s face.
“Okay,†grumbled Arn, “stupid question. When we get through this wall, then what?â€
“One problem at a time,†he said, shrugging his shoulders and wincing as another shot roared overhead, “but I would be obliged if you could hurry it up a little.â€
*
“Freebirth!†cursed Binetti, “These things are fast!â€
He watched as the group of fighters turned together in preparation for another run.
“I have had enough,†said the Star Commander, “these drones need to be split apart. It is too easy for them with one grouped target. On my command, I want the four of you moving in different directions. Their reactions may be fast, but I want to see how fast.â€
Lee sent each of his men their vectors and then counted down.
“Now!†he snapped, and his well-trained veterans instantly reacted, whilst Binetti maintained his course.
There was a moment of confusion amongst the drones, which the Star Commander took advantage of firing all of his weapons into the massed ranks, just before they moved to counter his move. This created instant discord; one missile impacted directly onto the swept-forward wing of the lead drone, ripping it into shreds and spinning the craft into its neighbour. His lasers burned through plate, causing other craft to initiate evasive manoeuvres and their cohesion was lost. He grinned as his men inverted their courses as planned and raced into the attack. This was more like it!
*
“The drones will be upon you soon,†commented David, “as will be the lead units of the local ground forces.â€
“Good,†said Hans, checking his display for enemy icons, “I would hate to think that this would be too easy.â€
He had split his force, sending half of the Elementals to the far side of the hill, ready to disrupt the oncoming army of General Julius. It was a simple plan; a target-rich environment for the drones would be one of the few possibilities he had to overload their battle computers. Unfortunately his men would be the ones that the machines would detect, so placing them within the oncoming soldiers and inviting return fire was the only viable option.
“Engage when you are in range,†he ordered, “our objective is maximum destruction and confusion. We need those drones occupied so that Arn and Elias have time to complete their mission.â€
There were no audible replies and he had expected none. New icons appeared and he checked his weapons once more. It was time.
-
Elias had led them away from the machine. Their passage through the wall had been relatively easy, not so afterwards. The tunnel was much smaller and wound a tortuous path around the open area. They could still hear the tank prowling outside and at any moment, Arn expected it to smash hungrily through the thin wall. Even though Elias had explained that it was not sentient, but controlled by a computer, the local soldiers harboured remembered stories of demons and this thing, certainly fit the bill.
At last he called them to a halt in front of a strange metal cover which he told them was an inspection hatch.
“This should bring us out behind the tank,†he said, unfastening the retaining clamps as he spoke.
“Should?†asked one of the soldiers.
The Tech laughed, “Will, I should have said. Once out, we will have a relatively short time to traverse the remaining space and enter the opening opposite. My calculations indicate that is the passage which will lead us direct to the command centre of this installation.â€
“How short a time do you think we will have?†asked Arn carefully.
“Can you run fast?†replied Elias, with a grin.
*
Emperor Julius had just started his men up the nearby slope when the demons struck. Their horrific weapons tore their way through his lead ranks and he suddenly remembered why he had run away the last time they had met. Dark shapes leapt and bounded down the slope and were soon hidden amongst the press of his soldiers’ bodies. The only indication of their presence was the staccato roar of their guns, the scream of wounded and dying men and the stench of terror which wafted across the battlefield.
Julius, though, had not come unprepared. He valued his men’s lives little and so gave the order for his guns to fire. Small field pieces were quickly unlimbered and trained on the heaving mass. Cannon balls were loaded in some of the pieces and grapeshot in others, and, as his hand fell they opened fire.
The effect was devastating, not so much for the Elementals in their power armour, but specifically for the Emperor’s own men. Balls smashed through their ranks, exploding bodies in a welter of blood. Through sheer luck one of them struck power armour, knocking the man off his feet with its momentum but doing little damage. With the grapeshot the carnage was multiplied. Gleefully he ordered his men to keep firing and drove his infantrymen forward, their muskets spitting ineffectually.
As Emperor, he did not commit himself to the battle, but watched open-mouthed as his men died. More by his own hand than that of the demons’. The final thought of retreat had entered his head when the most terrifying of all came to pass. Sleek silver shapes flashed into his vision as they attacked. They did not target him where he waited but fired directly into the midst of the wounded and dying soldiers. Then, Julius realised that they were not seeking to punish his temerity in defying his Gods, rather they struck at the demons. A light of wonderment entered and he vowed to appease his Gods. He would find another of the Black Boxes and make it understand who and what he was.
His attention was drawn back to the remainder of his forces and he signalled the withdrawal. He saw something impact and throw bodies and earth skywards, along with a huge gout of flame. Light pulsed in answer and a thin sliver of silver roared upwards, away from the demons and towards his saviours.
Horns sounded and his men withdrew, those at least who were still able. He watched as the demons disengaged and sped back up the hill, firing in response to their attackers. Now, he felt that he might have a chance. He would not make the same mistake again.
-
Cripes, I hope the Emperor bites it in a particularly drawn out and gruesome fashion.
-
Breath rasping, legs pumping and his satchel bouncing in a mad frenzy against his back, Elias ran. At his side at first, and then quickly outdistancing him, were Arn and his men. He heard the change in pitch of the tank’s engine and cold sweat prickled between his shoulder blades.
Black Conn saw him struggling and tossed his rifle to Arn, before spinning and grasping the Tech by one arm. Almost effortlessly he half-dragged Elias along, tossing him bodily through the yawning tunnel opening and diving in after him, just as a blast of heat passed close over head.
“Thank you,†gasped Elias, as he crawled forward. Conn grinned at him and then picked him up by the belt, sprinting for the safety of a twist in the passage.
“I thought we’d lost you there for a moment,†grinned Arn, “welcome back.â€
“I was saving myself,†Elias grumbled.
“Good,†Arn said, pointing towards the double doors which barred further access, “because you need to deal with that.â€
“I do have a little explosive left,†interrupted Conn sheepishly.
“No need,†returned Elias, pulling cables from his pack and attaching them to his data pad, “this I can deal with.â€
All the while he worked, the tank could be heard rumbling back and forth. There was the occasional petulant burst of heat as the machine tried, in vain, to reach them. Once, it slammed against the entrance and the soldiers tensed, but it quickly returned to its vigilance.
“Yes!†exclaimed Elias and the doors slid open, revealing another short passage which opened out into a roughly circular room. There was a huge central cylinder within which lights dashed in crazy abandon. Around the cylinder were set a bank of control panels and Elias eagerly started forward.
“Wait!†shouted Arn, as he caught movement in his peripheral vision and a bright charge of particles spat out of the dim interior.
*
Hans and his men were fortunate that the attack drones were built more for ship-to-ship encounters, than anti-personnel work. Their runs were predictable and they came en-masse. He had split his men into small teams, which appeared to further confuse the attackers, as did their agile movements.
“Let them come,†he mouthed into his transmitter, “just a little closer...now, fire!â€
Missiles shot up in a flat arc, giving the front drone no time to react. There was a massive explosion and the craft wobbled, before splitting apart. Half of it flew into its neighbours and the other part careened earthwards, bouncing and tumbling in its final death throws. The compact group of fighters whirled away, quickly reforming and preparing for another attack.
The Elemental saw friendly icons appear on his display and knew that his men were returning. This was about to get interesting.
*
“Is he dead?†asked Arn as he looked at the crumpled figure before him.
“No,†replied Conn, “the only way I could stop him, was to give him a little tap.â€
Arn looked first at the unconscious man and then the deep mark scorched into the ground by his side.
“Well, you hit him, you wake him up,†snapped Arn, passing his thermos of water across to Conn, “and thanks. We need him.â€
Conn grunted and tipped the full contents of the thermos over Elias’ head. The tech spluttered his way to consciousness and glared at Conn.
“What did you...?†and then he saw the black streak next to him, “Oh, thank you.â€
With a grin, Conn helped him to his feet and patted down Elias’ tunic, “It was only a tap,†he said as he turned away.
“Elias!†Arn called, just as the man was about to respond, “We’re wasting time. How do we turn this weapon off?â€
Quickly, Elias scanned the room, finally settling on a nearby panel. With his data pad in one hand, cables dangling loosely, he pointed.
“I need a little time working on that,†he said, and then turned to Conn.
“You seem like a good person to create a distraction,†Elias said flatly, “I need a few moments.â€
Conn stared at Elias for a moment and then laughed, “Sure,†he said, “but next time, it won’t be just a tap.â€
*
“Sir, we are receiving information of multiple jump signatures. They are still some distance away, but we have definite confirmation,†said David, startling Jax from the study of his tactical display.
Hans’ voice crackled over the speakers, “Attack drones are breaking contact, I repeat, they are disengaging.â€
“Hans, wait one moment please,†Jax turned to the Tech, “what more can you tell me?â€
“Star Commander Binetti has also reported that the remaining Voidseekers have disengaged. He requests permission to follow.â€
“Negative,†said Jax, “get him back to the Jumpship and find out where we are with the repairs.â€
Come on Elias, he thought to himself, wave that magic wand.
-
Chapter Eight
[/size]
The waves caused by the emerging ships bounced and rolled against each other, their myriad reflections being caught by the old Star League installation. Its systems analysed them, separating the various contacts and attempting to identify them. Each appearance was pinged by a tight signal, its invitation for identification receiving no response and the mechanical brain chattered to itself and the attack drones. Threat analysis had shown where the greatest danger laid and so the subservient fighters hurried in response to their master’s call.
Inside the construct, bursts of energy flew through conduits. Insistently they hammered against reticent receivers, whose centuries of idleness provided a greater barrier than had ever been expected. One pathway slept, yet the control centre would not give up. Again and again it pushed, tore and screamed at the blockage. At last it received a response.
As a sleeping giant opens one blood shot eye, its sister machine struggled angrily to awareness. Bleary exchanges happened in the blink of an eye and sensors snapped to life. One huge power plant stuttered and then burst forth, followed by a second. The defibrillation had been successful. Engines flared, retaining bolts burst and from the shadow of the artificial asteroid a dark shape slunk free. Its birth was mirrored by a spectacular second, rock shattering and splitting apart. Slowly at first and then with gathering speed, the two huge predators swam towards their targets.
*
Captain-General Gunther De La Cruz tapped his fingers in irritation against the arm of his command chair. This mission had been expected to be difficult, but he had been surprised to find that a FedCom jumpship had beaten him here. There was evidence of activity from within the asteroid belt, which had brought a shark-like grin to his face. He could almost taste success.
Sensors indicated that the jumpship was heavily outmatched by his force, although they had picked up a small contingent of fighters close to the vessel. That was of little concern, though. What was intolerable, though, was the information he had just received. Attack drones had already been activated and were inbound. It appeared that their greatest wishes had been fulfilled, in that the base was operational. He was already mentally counting his money, when a red-faced and frightened junior brought him more information.
Oh, the richness of it all, and it was so close. The Captain-General gave the order for the recognition signals to be sent and sat back in his chair with a smile.
*
Elana entered the command room to find Jax staring once again at his tactical screen. She had recently arrived from their training camp, in which the second intake of recruits was progressing nicely. It helped that all of them had fought previously with the ex-Emperor’s army and so there was a solid basis on which to build new foundations.
“What news?†she asked calmly. The relationship between herself and Jax had matured into an informal confidence, which many others could not or would not share.
“Jump capable ships have entered the system,†Jax stated flatly, “and no, we have no idea who they are. At present they seem content to wait, although I am not sure for what.â€
“And our forces?†she queried, more concerned about troops in action, rather than enemies yet to be declared.
Jax continued to study the data in front of him, but spoke to her over his shoulder.
“The attack drones have disengaged and appear to be moving to intercept our new guests. There is more activity reported from the asteroid belt, which has yet to be confirmed. It seems as though we are considered the lesser of two evils, right now.â€
“That is a good thing?†she queried.
“Of that, I am unsure,†Jax said, “we need for Elias and Arn to get in touch with us. Contact was lost and we have no way of knowing what they have encountered.â€
“Can Hans not follow them?†her question was half-dismissive.
“Only by blowing up half the mountain,†responded Jax.
There was a wicked smile on her lips as she spoke. “And your point is...?â€
-
Insert Evil Grin.
-
;)
“Understood,†said Hans, motioning his men forward, “we will create our own access tunnel. It will not be pretty, but it will be effective.â€
“Your objective is to find Elias and help him, if you can. However, if all else fails, destroy the complex.â€
Hans acknowledged the order and approached the entry point that Arn and his team had used. He stitched a pattern in the earth with his laser and stepped back, as the explosive charges were laid. Something had obviously changed which needed the Tech’s deft touch. First of all though, the hammer would be used. The ground heaved as the explosives tore into the dirt, digging a deep crater with their violence.
There was a cracking sound away to the left and Hans leapt away, as the earth split asunder. Like the petals of a huge flower, metallic strips folded back and a growling could be heard as if from the den of an enraged beast. First a long tubular shape emerged and then the body, wheels spinning as the machine gripped the newly broken earth. A laser spoke, flashing out and stripping the rock away where Hans had stood moments before. Now clear, the vehicle spun towards its target, the echo of its passage still resounding from deep within its darkened lair. It was joined by a second and then a third.
“Freebirth!†cursed Hans, as three Chevalier light tanks rolled forth. His targeting reticule chimed and he fired, his SRM streaking towards the first of them. With a smashing roar, it struck. Still the beast came on, its heavy armour shrugging off the impact.
At his first shot, his men joined in. This was not going to be as easy as he had thought.
*
“Hurry up,†shouted Conn, as the PPC scored the wall near his latest dive path.
Elias looked up once, then concentrated on his task. The panel was on the floor next to him and his hands were buried deep inside the control recess. Cables spilled across his lap, as his hands feverishly split and remade connections. Twice now, he thought he had succeeded, to find the power rerouted and sweat pouring from his brow, he feverishly tried again.
Arn could see the automated defence system. It was split into two separate units which ran around the room on some sort of concealed track. It was fast. Too fast for his men’s rifles and he now rested his laser across the shoulder of one of his men. The muzzle wavered as the man’s chest heaved with adrenalin-induced excitement.
“Stop breathing!†he snapped and the man obediently held his last breath. He tracked the foremost unit and watched as it fired again. Good, he had it. Beneath him the soldier’s face began to turn purple, but he obeyed Arn’s command to the letter. Just as his vision began to blur from lack of oxygen, Arn fired three times in quick succession, before bowling the man over as he crashed into cover.
The first shot struck the spherical shape, ricocheting away. A second burned into the concealed track, melting metal with its intensity and the third one cut away at the exposed and smoking cables. There was a muffled roar and the unit came staggering to a halt.
Its partner had now targeted Arn. Beam after beam slammed into the ground nearby, causing the soldiers to huddle behind the control panel where Elias was working. Conn readied himself for another dash for safety, and Elias pulled frantically at the cables, as once again he was foiled in his attempts to power down the awful guardian.
“Frak this!†snapped Arn, pulling Elias aside and sticking his rifle inside the panel.
“No!†shouted Elias, as Arn pulled the trigger.
With a sharp crack, the panel exploded under Arn’s intense bombardment, throwing him back and into the open. As he looked up, he saw the defence unit halt, realign itself and the glow of its cannon as the deadly charge built.
*
“What is delaying you?†Captain-General De La Cruz peered over the shoulder of his subordinate, the reek of worry-induced sweat percolating the air.
“It is not responding to the code,†whispered the officer,
“Get out of the way!†snarled De La Cruz, tugging roughly at the man’s shoulder and snatching the data pad from his hand. It was impossible, he could feel his triumph slipping from his grasp.
A quick glance showed the bulk of the two massive shapes converging on his position. Smaller points of light, suddenly appeared as though a deadly mist had sprayed forth. “Move!†he screamed, punching buttons desperately.
“New contact,†shouted his communications officer.
“What?†the Captain-General’s voice squeaked in disbelief.
“New jump signature,†the man intoned flatly, “we have contact. It is a warship and is broadcasting on an open channel.â€
The Captain-General heard an arrogant voice echo round his control room, and knew that he had failed.
*
Each of the craft spat forth a silvery cloud of smaller vessels, which rapidly aligned themselves. Their silvery wings glinted as they banked and wheeled in tight formation. Then, as if receiving a single command, they shot forward towards their appointed targets.
The newcomer had not been forgotten. Courses were altered and one of the craft swung around to face the recently arrived warship. Deep within its hull, batteries charged and weapons cycled and on the asteroid a man-made machine pulsed further commands.
*
Conn leapt forward, his front foot planted on the sloping edge of one of the control panels. He pushed off, arms outstretched. With a grunt he caught hold of the defence unit with one hand and used his momentum to swing his body round. The large knife is his hand shot forward, the tip burying into the cannon’s open maw and jamming its body deep inside.
Sweat loosened his grip and he tumbled to the floor, twisting to watch Arn’s final moments. There was a shower of sparks and the spherical unit gyrated wildly, the knife falling free. Conn knew he had lost his last chance of saving his new friend and stared on helplessly.
He heard the whizz of a passing shot, the heat causing him to flinch in pain and swivelled, expecting to see the burnt and smoking remains of his leader.
Before him stood Arn, legs spread wide apart and laser hanging limply from one hand.
“Frakker!†he spat before speaking to Elias, “Are you ever going to turn this thing off?â€
Elias laughed and scurried forward, ignoring the charred panel and signalling out one of the bigger control units, “Turn it off? No. But I am going to re-educate it a little.â€
-
“At last!†Captain-General De La Cruz could not hide his glee at the positive confirmation of his signal. He watched the data transmission begin, sequences cascading across his screen as the defence satellite and his ship began to communicate. The second of the Caspar M5 drones halted in its menacing path and waited for new instructions, whilst its sister ship continued on its steady way towards the menacing shape of the recently arrived protagonist.
Once again, he began to dream of untold riches and power. Who else could claim to have discovered such a prize? Mentally pinching himself, he gave new orders; the sooner he got his people on the ground the better. There was also the strange FedCom jumpship to be taken care of.
“Sir?†the Comm officer’s voice was apologetic, although uncertainity and a little fear was there too.
“What now?â€
“The signal is stalled, Sir.â€
“Do I have to do everything myself?†queried De La Cruz in exasperation, just as a holo-message registered. It was coming from the planet.
“Pass it through to me,†he snapped, his egotistical fantasies rapidly disappearing.
The image shimmered and then strengthened. It came from what appeared to be a war zone, smoke and sparks could clearly be seen in the background. A face smudged with oil and ash grinned at him and as the man turned to speak to someone else outside the visible area, De La Cruz caught the flash of a strange insignia; a dark bird on a green background.
“Hello,†the cheery faced soldier said, “I am Elias, of the Dark Falcons. To what do we owe the pleasure of your visit?â€
De La Cruz spluttered with rage, his words an incoherent babble.
“Sorry?†the man asked again, “There must be something wrong with the signal.â€
“I am Captain-General De La Cruz, of the Hanseatic League. We are here to recover what is rightfully ours. You would be advised to surrender immediately, before I am forced to remove your irritating presence for good.â€
“Now, now,†said Elias, “that is no way to speak to a new friend. I have been authorised to offer you the possibility of a peaceful withdrawal. It seems that you are not the only one with claims of ownership, as we notice another party has also arrived...â€
“Enough!†screamed De La Cruz, “I will not take instructions from an unknown group, living on a backwater planet. You will obey me!â€
There was a pause, then the voice returned, this time flat and cold.
“The Dark Falcons take instructions from no-one. You have been warned. Proceed at your own risk!â€
For a moment, there was silence, and then the Captain-General exploded in rage.
“Order all of our ships to proceed at full speed for the planet! Dropships to prepare for a hot entry. We will smash these fools. Send the drones to take care of our arrogant friends here, whilst we deal with those on the ground.â€
“That,†said the officer, his voice measured and strangely resigned, “will not be possible.â€
“What!†roared De La Cruz.
“We have lost control of the drones...â€
-
It's always good to read another chapter of this story. :)
-
Chapter Nine
Within the Hanseatic League, there had long been stories of lost Star League bases. From its original foundation, the inner circle of the ruling council had zealously guarded the sacred logs of their Star League forefathers. In them, were detailed accounts of the wonders of satellite defence systems, caches and machinery. The avarice of this mercantile league, and its position of force within the Deep Periphery had driven its steady expansion.
On the capital world of Bremen, an order of state-funded scholars and technicians reverentially maintained records of recognition codes, equipment specifications and three receiving devices. These machines were monitored continuously, and it was one of these which had caught the computer-generated message.
Quickly, a combined force of Regional Defence and Convoy Protection was put together; an unheard of undertaking, which consisted of a brigade-size unit of BattleMechs and Combat Vehicles, plus Marines, Aerospace Assets, Assault Dropships and Jumpships. This was too great a prize to be taken unawares. Captain General De La Cruz was given overall command and was charged with success at all costs.
Once the area and technology had been secured, merchant vessels would follow to carry back the technology and perhaps seed the new world with colonists. It had been a good plan, but had been doomed to failure from the beginning. One of the Leagues fundamental premises had been flawed; they were not the only ones to know of the signal.
*
Kael Pershaw had not expected to be the last to arrive, nor that his welcoming committee would be so large and hostile. Even with his warship and all of its assets, he could see that they were outmatched. If they could get down onto the ground, he was sure of victory, but the fact that one of the drone warships and its complement of fighters was heading directly for him, had not escaped his notice.
He gave the order to launch his own fighters and to prepare for battle. His only hope was that the second ship and the Hanseatic League assets did not join the fight. Pragmatically, he knew that he either had to control or destroy this old Star League base. If it became necessary, he would withdraw and bring back allies, although that was not his first choice.
Pershaw bared his teeth in a feral grin as the anticipation of battle coursed through him. No-one had answered his batchall and so he was not limited by restricted resources. Perhaps, he would not need any help after all.
*
Hans fired his jets, leaping back away from the laser round. This was getting just a little hot. Two of his men were down, their suits trying their best to maintain the broken bodies within. One of the Chevalier tanks was stationary; three of its wheels had been shredded away and its turret whirred in frustration as it tried to hit one of the rapidly moving Elementals. The other two tanks were still aggressively trying to erase the rest of his unit. It was then he heard more growling echoing from the underground tunnel and Hans knew they were in trouble.
He watched first one and then another of the beasts emerged. They were slow and stately, yet deadly in their intent. These machines were slightly different, blisters of strange shapes clung to their sides and the lead tank had an unsightly protuberance perched high on its turret. Knowing it was less than useless, but determined to take at least one of these machines with him, Hand sighted on the turret itself, awaiting the familiar sound of his last missile locking on target. Just as he was about to fire, he heard a familiar voice.
“I really would not do that, if I was you.â€
“Elias!†shouted Hans, as the blisters unfurled to reveal the crouching forms of Arn and his men, “You took your time.â€
“We had one or two minor setbacks,†replied the Tech cheerfully. Hans could hear mutterings from Arn, something about “minor, my frakking backside!†and then he gladly watched the initial tanks power down.
“So, we do not need to blow this up?â€
“No,†Elias said, “I am afraid we could not, even if we wanted to. A rather sophisticated defence system, if I might say.â€
“Was it worth the pain and effort?†Hans asked, indicating his downed men.
“Definitely,†Elias said, now very serious, “and you need to get Lieutenant Jax here at once. This place is enormous and I have only just started cataloguing it. Just let me say that these tanks are the least of what I have found.â€
*
Arn liked the tanks. Now that he had accepted that they were no longer demon beasts, he thrilled to the idea of riding in one. Elias had told him that normally, these machines were designed to be piloted by humans.
The Tech’s descriptions of what they could do had been hard to understand, but the thought of commanding one had filled him with a childish glee. When Elias had talked about the difference between these and BattleMechs, Arn and Conn had scoffed. Machines as tall as a palace, which made the Elementals look like babies. Very hard to believe.
He heard Elias talking to the Leftenant and Jax’s command that they wait where they were for his arrival. Arn patted the machine on its armoured flank affectionately and moved off to help with the recovery of Hans’ men and to set up an initial perimeter. That was a least something he knew how to do and if Elias was right, would become increasingly necessary as it appeared that they could expect unwelcome visitors shortly.
*
Elana had returned to the training camp under instructions from Jax to accelerate the pace of graduation. She knew that if the enemy forces reached the planet her group of recruits were poorly armed, both mentally and technologically, to resist. It was her job to somehow even the odds.
Her first instruction was that all of the recent graduations were recalled. Imperial soldiers, still awaiting induction, would need to take up their old duties for now. They would be given crash courses in the use of the new rifles being issued, but there was not enough time to complete their training.
Two classes were ready for their passing out and this she brought forward. There were another two groups halfway through their training, but now they would need to finish their education on the job. She sent the shuttle for all of the spare autorifles and ammunition available and called her training cadre together. Improvisation would be the name of the game and it was something she had learnt from a master.
*
Jax’s shuttle landed on an open space in front of two of the tanks. Their menacing shapes gave him a slight fright as the turrets tracked his descent, but Elias assured him that they were on standby and that his pilot had transmitted the correct identification signal. No longer did the old Star League code work, rather now that of Elias’ own invention; a particularly Dark Falcon recognition.
The Tech himself was waiting for Jax as he stepped out of the shuttle. Grouped with him, as though forming a guard of honour, were Hans, Arn and their men. Brief formalities over, Elias led him down into the complex.
Muted light aided their passage and the tramp of booted feet gave Jax a comforting feeling. They passed through damaged corridors, this time directly crossing the large cavernous space where Arn and his men had met the first tank, and finally reached the control centre. It was bright in contrast to the rest of the areas that they had passed, although this too showed the residual effect of the Dark Falcons’ passage.
Elias led him to one of the central control panel and bade him sit in one of the less damaged seats.
“What can you tell me that can be of some help to us?†Jax asked.
“I can do better than that,†said the excited Tech, flicking switches and coalescing a holo-image, “I can show you...â€
*
-
Deep within the bowels of the complex power crept into long-unused circuits. At first it was tentative, then gaining confidence and efficiency it sped along its newly awakened pathways. Relays clicked open, feeding now hungry machines and the electrical organism truly began to stir.
The image in the control remained fuzzy and Elias asked for patience as he watched the data stream by his side.
“Now,†he said to Jax, “you will see what has been mouldering away here for so many years.â€
Overhead lights began to flash on, revealing first the outlines of a huge room. Faster and faster they added to the illumination, until it seemed as though the light itself was desperate in its haste to banish the darkness. Shapes came into focus; rectangular, some spear-like and finally hulking monsters, until the vast space was fully lit.
“Oh...my...†began Jax.
“Exactly,†agreed Elias, “it seems as though the Star League was stockpiling here. For some reason, this out-of-the-way planet was left ready to face a major incursion.â€
“Are they all functional?†Jax asked.
“Hard to say,†Elias mused, “the atmosphere inside this particular repository reads as almost purely nitrogen. We will need to pump out, which will take a little while, before we can physically inspect the equipment. There is an inventory, but in reality, there is no way we can get all of this up and running, before our guests arrive.â€
“True,†Jax agreed, “however we can mix and match. With the control of the drones, we should be able to suppress any aerospace threat, although we do need armour. With only three BattleMechs and their pilots, we cannot hope to compete directly. Get me a list of what can be realistically ready.â€
Elias nodded and then smiled, “There are a couple of other things I have to show you.â€
He switched the view to what appeared simply as a long dark tunnel, “These are mass-drivers, used to overcome the planet’s gravity well. They can hurl cargo pods, satellites and even weapons systems into space. Unfortunately the two units are of fixed trajectory.
We do though,†and here he flicked to a small control room, “have a number of external defensive systems; anti-missile, laser, PPC, Gauss and even autocannon. As I said, they left things well prepared.â€
“What of the Satellite and its drones?†Jax queried, “Our jumpship will probably face the first real attack.â€
“The two Caspar M-5’s and their associated M-39’s are all that is available. It seems as though the SDS suffered much more than the complex here. I would suggest withdrawing one of the warships close to our own jumpship for protection. The other can probably deal with any real threat by itself.â€
“No,†Jax corrected Elias, “we need the fighters. They will be no real use against anything but aerospace units. The real prize is here, where we are and our new friends will not give up. The warships can hold them in space, but the real battle will be fought on the ground.â€
He thought for a moment more, “Get our pilots, mechwarriors and all available troops and technicians down here. I will speak with Elana directly.â€
*
Captain-General De La Cruz saw his first concern disappear, as the stationary warship began to move away. Its course was clearly for the FedCom jumpship and the man grinned. He looked at his officer enquiringly, but the simple shake of his head, made De La Cruz frown again. They were still not in control.
A fighter screen followed the M-5, whilst its sister ship also began to slow. This was not in his plans, the Clan Warship needed to be taken out of the picture and he certainly did not want to dispute ownership of the Star League Technology with the Clans. Once he had it, they would have to withdraw. Decisive action was needed.
“Launch the fighters!†he barked, “Get us moving towards planet and order the Dropships ready for deployment!â€
For all of his merchant background, the Capitan-General was also a fighting man. Speed was now of the essence. A quick victory and then humiliation for the Clans. It was going to be a good day, of that he was sure.
*
Kael Pershaw also noted the change of trajectory of the first drone. His confidence took a boost as he realised that his own ship was now a match for the force arrayed against him. When he saw the launch of fighters from the Hanseatic fleet, he immediately gave the same instruction. Instead of aiming directly for the planet’s surface, he ordered battle stations and drove his ship directly to meet the waiting Caspar drone.
-
Caspar Drones are fast. Very fast. SLN gunners had problems following them while they conducted slashing attacks. Two Caspars should be able to make a mess of things.
Here's hoping!
-
Caspar Drones are fast. Very fast. SLN gunners had problems following them while they conducted slashing attacks. Two Caspars should be able to make a mess of things.
Here's hoping!
You been reading over my shoulder? :o
-
Chapter Ten
[/size]
The Dark Falcon jumpship was a hive of activity. Jax’s orders had been clear; all available personnel were to be ferried down to the planet immediately. The remaining shuttle and the dropship were crammed with personnel. A relative skeleton crew remained on board with strict instructions to evacuate via the barely serviceable destroyer if required. Star Commander Binetti and his pilots were already circling protectively around their parent vessel, waiting for the dropship to detach.
Although jump capable, the ex-FedCom vessel had still not been fully repaired and Jax had decided that protecting such a damaged asset was in the long-run futile. There were valuable people on board, who could bolster the defence of the complex planetside. It was also a tempting target for the Clan and Hanseatic Forces. No doubt, their thought being that they could effectively strand their enemies on this world. Thankfully, Jax already knew and had accepted that reality.
As the dropship blasted clear, Elias sent a command to the Caspar M-5, from which two wings of attack drones peeled away. Their enhanced battle computers had received new orders; escort duty first and then protection of the defence complex. Time was running away from Elias and his men and insufficient drones would be available for air cover.
Binetti stared angrily at his tactical screen, which showed the approaching fighters and dropships, which were closing rapidly. His first reaction was to fight, but he was also a good soldier. His time would come.
*
De La Cruz noticed the dropship’s rapid flight and the squadron of supporting fighters. First things first though, he needed to clear a path to the planet. His intention was to engage the warship in front of him, with the majority of his armament, leaving the way clear for his own dropships to make planetfall. Armour and Marines were already on board. Their job was to establish a beachhead for the following BattleMechs.
It was clear in the Captain-General’s mind that the FedCom usurpers had arrived early, but also that they could not be much more than an exploration force. He would make sure that their jumpship was removed as a strategic threat. They could not be allowed to send for reinforcements. Once established, he felt that his combined force would be more than a match for the threat of the Clans. Especially once he had re-established control over the Star League Technology.
So, it was with unbridled glee he watched the icons on his tactical screen show first contact with the drone fighter screen, and he ordered the rest of his fleet to full speed.
*
Although non-sentient, the Caspar M-5 warship was sophisticated. Its internal processes drew from centuries of warfare; historical data on tactics, tried and proven responses and possessed lightening fast speed. Aside from this, it was still a machine, bereft of emotion and illogical leaps of faith; it was predictable.
De La Cruz watched its attack drones from into tight clumps, ready to meet his onrushing fighters. He knew, what the mechanised brain did not; no plan survived first contact, and he grinned inanely as the wings of League craft split suddenly into twos and threes. They hammered into the insect-like concentration of drones, smashing them apart and destroying the hive control.
More drones spat forth from the main warship, scurrying to plug the breaches, but were in turn sucked into the madly whirling dogfight. Gaps began to appear and it was into these widening fissures that De La Cruz drove his ships.
Whereas the drones level of independent thought was restricted, it was less so for the huge warship. Lack of emotions were a help in this instance and its laser and PPC’s opened fire, cutting a molten swath through the now intertwined forces. Missile batteries flamed and their deadly packages charged on, intent only on reaching the larger prizes which were rapidly closing the intervening distance.
The Captain-General snarled in frustration as he saw the tell-tale bloom of fire of a dying vessel. To the left of him, one of his destroyers took a fatal blow. Three missiles hit in quick succession, followed by the scathing beam of a particle cannon. Metal buckled, the ship’s shell imploding under rapid decompression and then ballooning outwards in time with its compromised fusion reactors.
“More speed!†he screamed, his knuckles white where they gripped the arm of his chair, “Hit it with all we’ve got!â€
Another craft, a transport this time, died silently amidst the hellish barrage. Men and equipment were incinerated or thrown out of their protective shells, collateral jetsam of the battle. De La Cruz saw one of his fighters break through, its lasers ineffectively stabbing into the huge warship’s shell and then he saw its pilot give the ultimate sacrifice. Guns blazing, the man targeted what would have been another ship’s bridge, but in this case was nothing more than another of the many interconnected sensor arrays. He missed, but in doing so succeeded better than he had hoped, his dying craft ploughing into one of the starboard missile batteries and silencing it forever.
“Target that area and pass the word to our sister ships,†said the Captain-General through gritted teeth, “we have our opening.â€
*
Jax walked out to meet the descending dropship, shielding his ears from the roaring of its engines. Overhead, Binetti and his men circled ready for their own landing; Elias apparently had a something in mind for them. The flames of the retros had hardly been extinguished before a ramp crashed to earth and men and women sallied forth. Urgently, they were directed into the open tunnels leading down, where they would be reassigned duties.
A shuttle waited, the air around it wavering with the suppressed heat of its eager departure. The Elemental Star, left behind to defend the jumpship bounced towards it, naval ratings with autorifles clutched in their hands waving them on. As the last man was pulled on board, the little craft rose, turned and shot away towards the training camp and Elana. The dropship would join it, once it had discharged its precious cargo, if there was time.
No BattleMechs strode forth, they too were in the mountains. Soon, the only movement was that of the M-39 attack drones, as they circled vigilantly.
*
Binetti and his men found Elias in a room adjoining the control centre. It was full of what appeared to be simulators and the pilot’s barely held control of his temper, tore.
“Freebirth!†he snapped, “You have brought us here for training?â€
Elias looked up from his discussion with David and looked scathingly at Binetti.
“Each of you get into one of the seats,†he said, ignoring the pilot’s anger at his treatment, “you are no longer a Jade Falcon and I do not have the time for niceties. Before you are the machines which can be used to manually control the attack drones. Each of you will be able to command at least five, perhaps more but we are still unsure.â€
Binetti’s mouth opened to reply, but this time the timid David spoke, “You heard him, what are you waiting for?â€
The Star Commander’s jaw clacked shut. He grinned at his men and climbed into the open door of his machine. Perhaps later he would discuss the proper manner in which to address a warrior, but right now, he had some training to do.
-
Be careful, the M-5s were pretty close to sentient for argument's sake. They were extremely fast, heavily armed and armored, and would conduct ramming attacks should all else fail. They had the collective knowledge of centuries worth of naval experience to draw upon and could react very quick in combat. The fighter drones, not so much, but they'd be more of a smoke screen anyway - providing both covering fire, distraction and ultimately a kind of meat shield for the Caspars. (Also of note, SLDF gunners had a hard time targeting them M-5s and would try to aim for their drive tails.) That last bit sounds like fictional liberty given the intricacies of space combat, but it does highlight the speed and rapid course alterations these large WarShips were capable of.
And yes, I am reading over your shoulder. Surprise!
-
Be careful, the M-5s were pretty close to sentient for argument's sake. They were extremely fast, heavily armed and armored, and would conduct ramming attacks should all else fail. They had the collective knowledge of centuries worth of naval experience to draw upon and could react very quick in combat. The fighter drones, not so much, but they'd be more of a smoke screen anyway - providing both covering fire, distraction and ultimately a kind of meat shield for the Caspars. (Also of note, SLDF gunners had a hard time targeting them M-5s and would try to aim for their drive tails.) That last bit sounds like fictional liberty given the intricacies of space combat, but it does highlight the speed and rapid course alterations these large WarShips were capable of.
And yes, I am reading over your shoulder. Surprise!
Well, it's a good job I'm listening to you and that you'll soon be meeting a special friend of mine ;D
-
Arn obeyed the summons and led his troop into the now well-lit holding area. It still showed the scars of their battle with the light tank, but the floor had been cleared and there was at least some form of order. Jax was waiting for them at the centre of the room, stood in the middle of a group of naval ratings clad in the distinctive black of the Dark Falcons.
He smiled as Arn and Conn approached, beckoning them over.
“It’s been brought to my attention,†he said, “that you and your men have shown some promise. So, I have a little job for you. We’ve managed to warm up a couple of APC’s and light tanks.â€
Jac saw the look of incomprehension on Arn’s face, “Armoured Personnel Carriers. They will be your rides and the tanks will be along to give you a little protection. Sargeant Hauser here, will be in charge of the vehicles. We’ve managed to find a few men with experience of armour and they will be joining you.
Although you will be in charge, you would be well-advised to listen to the Sargeant’s counsel.â€
Arn nodded at the Sargeant , “What exactly will we be doing, Sir?†he asked respectfully.
“General Julius has gone quiet, although I expect that he will be plotting feverishly still. I would like you to take your men and dissuade him of any grand ideas. You are not to get involved in the impending assault, unless it is an absolute necessity. I have others who will take care of that.
Now, I will leave you all to get acquainted. Your vehicles will be waiting for you on the surface. Good hunting.â€
Just before he entered into the control room, he paused, “Oh, and one more thing. You’ve been promoted, Point Commander.â€
*
Two tanks, two vehicles Jax had called APC’s and a hovertruck awaited them outside. Hauser had detailed his men carefully, his eyes lighting with eagerness as he climbed the turret of the first tank. Arn had split his men between the two APC’s, eight in each. Naval ratings accompanied them to drive and also to man the PPC’s in their turrets.
“Ready Conn,†Arn asked of the big man next to him.
“As I’ll ever be,†Conn replied his rifle held loosely in his hand, “are you sure that these things are safe, Sir?â€
“Don’t know about safe for Julius,†Arn laughed, clapping his friend on the back, “but for us, definitely.â€
Once aboard and the doors firmly closed, Arn contacted Hauser and the small convoy slowly moved off. Jax watched them go. In the greater scheme of things, this mission was only minor, but in war, he knew, there were always surprises. Hopefully, good ones.
-
Chapter Eleven
The desperate attack by the League pilot had indeed opened a small window in the warship’s defence and it was into this weakened area that De La Cruz poured all of his fire. Titanic beams bit and tore at the thickened armour plating, boiling it away in molten incandescence. Missile arrowed in, their warheads detonating in and around the machine’s hull, only the fighters now competing with attack drones.
It was not only one way though, the M-5 stubbornly refused to die, its electronic brain calmly calculating its demise, yet also throwing counter punches. A Corvette flew too close and PPC fir licked out, seeming to hold and caress its sleek shape. Holes appeared momentarily, exposing the ship’s inside to the vacuum. Men and women were boiled alive or died screaming as they were sucked into the void. Then it was gone.
De La Cruz slammed his fist into the arm of his chair in frustration as another of his destroyers limped away, of no use in the ongoing battle.
“Target its engines,†he roared and watched as missiles flew at his command. Armour peeled away with each strike, lasers now joining in the hellish fury of the bombardment. His own cruiser rocked beneath the drunken punch of the M-5, lights and alarms blaring.
“Hull breaches, we have hull breaches!†shouted an alarmed officer.
“Seal the affected sections!†he snapped.
“But, Sir!†protested the officer, “Our people...â€
“Do as you’re told!†he snarled, his hand slipping to the holstered pistol at his side.
The man did as commanded, De La Cruz closing his eyes momentarily with the pain of loss. His ship shuddered again. A glance to his screen showed the warship listing now.
“Finish it!â€
The Captain-General felt a cruel satisfaction as all of his ships opened fire together. The volley of strikes punching the damaged drone ship sideways. One must have struck a fusion plant as there was an answering bloom of fire. With unexpected suddenness, the flames were joined by other explosions. They rocked the giant hull, a series of titanic gouts of energy roiled outwards and the M-5 was no more.
Attack drones faltered, were confused and his pilots gladly took advantage. This did not last long, as a body they wheeled and flew to join the second M-5, which even now battled for its own survival.
De La Cruz smiled in satisfaction. He could see the FedCom jumpship lying unprotected before him.
“Despatch two ships,†he said wearily, “I want no possible escape route left for them. Make sure nothing is left that could vaguely be called a shipâ€
His glance strayed to his screen; League armoured dropships were near to entering the planet’s atmosphere. He could almost taste victory.
*
“Send the signal.†Jax’s voice was clear, crisp in its decisive, “Tell them to evacuate to the destroyer and get out of there. They are no use to us dead.â€
“The Captain says that the charges are laid as requested,†said David, his hand closed over his mouth mike, “he asks to stay with his ship until the end.â€
“His request is denied,†said Jax forcefully, “he has a new ship and will have others. The charges can be detonated remotely, if required. His escape can be made under cover of the jumpship’s destruction.â€
Flashing icons showed the approach vectors of the Hanseatic League dropships. They were targeting the flat plain near to the base of the complex, just as he had expected. Good.
Jax transmitted Hans’ orders and then contacted Elias.
“Binetti and his men have the green light. I want those aerofighters immobilised.â€
Receiving Elias’ confirmation, he strolled across to David, placing one hand on his shoulder, “David, your boys can also join the party. Send me a relief and get yourself down there. It’s time we showed our visitors what this complex can do.â€
*
Kael Pershaw had been surprised at the difficulty found in overcoming the single warship. Its drones had caused numerous problems at first, but his own pilots had gradually picked them off. He had held back the full force of his own weapons, expecting it to be a relatively easy contest.
The destruction of the first M-5 had changed his plans. It was not in his nature for him to take a back seat to anyone and so he gave the order for direct conflict. When the second wave of fighters was announced, he gave it little thought, his men having easily mastered the initial onslaught. In his mind, he was already planning the landing of his BattleMechs and the conquest of the planet. Pershaw had made a number of errors in his life, but none as big as this.
*
Elias’ wakening of the complexes true potential had a number of smaller, in the scheme of things, effects. One of which was the untangling of redundant loops and processes. This more efficient routing of energy had been transmitted remotely to the satellite. It was a routine thing, a backup of data and commands, which passed all unnoticed.
Frustrated circuits were purged of erroneous data, dishes were realigned and solar power sucked greedily into the long dormant installation. On the surface of the asteroid there was little physical evidence of the turmoil below. Power coursed now through starving conduits, lights flickered madly as systems rebooted. Threats were detected and compared with the parent complex and action was taken.
-
The Defence Satellite waited. Its computations of trajectory, velocity and mass effect were complete. When the Jade Falcon Warship approached its optimal limit it sent its command. Huge doors cracked open, revealing two perfectly circular rock tunnels. Inside each were long parallel tracks which continued into the stygian darkness. Blue light crackled as energy began to build, the metallic runway humming and vibrating.
There was no burst of flame, only a faint flicker of energy discharge as the silver mass projectiles left the asteroid in a deadly blur. Fortune for once favoured Pershaw, his warship making a last minute manoeuvre in order to better align itself on the planet. If not for that unexpected adjustment, the Jade Falcons would have been looking for a new Khan.
In his tactical control centre Pershaw felt the ship scream. Its pain was non-verbal, but certainly tactile. Something punched into the warship, slamming its mighty weight and the thrust of its engines back. It had hit them low, tearing along inside the vessel and narrowly missing the engines. A second attack clipped the ship, spinning it slightly on its axis.
The computer on the asteroid recalculated its next shots, but it was a fixed system and the badly damaged warship had spun out of its direct line of fire. If it had been sentient, it would have tutted in disgust. Instead, it ordered in the M-5 and its drones to finish the job.
*
Emperor Julius stared in wonder at the black box they had found. The priests had carried out their litanies of purification and now he was speaking to God’s emissary. He had been told that the forces of righteousness were arriving and that they would smite the demons. A plan had been agreed and even now, Julius’ Generals were rushing to obey his commands. His plea for weapons with which to fight had been heard and granted; a messenger was on his way.
Even now, Julius was thinking of the long term. With the blessings of the Gods and the might of his new weapons, he could re-establish his authority as Emperor.
*
Arn watched the movements out of the city from the safety of his cover. They had made good time, meeting no resistance to their passage. The vehicles had been left close by and with Conn he had approached as close to the city as he could. In the open area near to the city walls, Julius’ troops had set up what appeared to be a large cordon, keeping citizens away.
“What are they doing?†It was a rhetorical question and Conn did not bother to answer.
The relatively still air was broken by a roaring. Distant at first, but building in intensity. Looking up, Arn saw a black speck which rapidly increased in size. Soon he could make out the details. A roughly spherical machine was dropping swiftly eartwards, flames billowing out from underneath it. Ports opened on its side and smaller shapes broke free, their own jets spurting.
Dirt shot up as the huge shapes became defined, their legs slamming down. Arms were raised and the upper bodies swivelled to face the gathering troops. Horse strove wildly to break free from their restraints and some of the soldiers fell to their knees in terror. BattleMechs had come and they were certainly not Dark Falcons.
When the larger ship landed, it disgorged men and more machines. Arn recognised in them vehicles similar to his own, yet lighter. Men stood in their rear, panning guns over the area and looking for an excuse to fire. He zoomed in the scope he had been given on the Mechs and then the ship itself. There was a large emblem painted on each of them; a red and yellow background with a black design of what looked like a larger version of the small craft which plied the rivers near the main city. Definitely not someone he knew.
“Let’s get back,†he whispered to Conn, “Lieutenant Jax needs to know about this.â€
*
Jax studied the tactical display before him. The information transmitted by Arn showed that the League had landed one dropship near to Julius’ forces. Two BattleMechs had been seen, but there would be more. Also some sort of mechanized force was with them.
Reports also indicated an imminent landing of two further dropships near to the complex. It was not pretty. He only hoped that Elias’ confidence was not misplaced. Decisively he reached for the transmitter. Elana was no use where she was. Jax needed her mobile and the best place would be with Arn. His only problem was how to get her there.
-
The first mass-projectile had ripped its way through the guts of the Jade Falcon warship. Its velocity punching through the armour plating, shearing bulkheads, pulping bodies and destroying machinery before it had continued on its way, its momentum hurling it on into space.
Pandemonium reigned. Men died. Pershaw screamed in useless rage.
Its massive twin merely kissed the already damaged vessel, but this was no lover’s tap. A deep trough had been cut through the rear of the huge craft, twisted, buckled and smoking wreckage could be seen momentarily, before bulkhead doors slammed shut.
In the control room Pershaw struggled to his feet and shouted for order. His aide tried to make himself heard over the hubbub and actually had the temerity to grip his Khan’s shoulder, bundling him towards the tactical screen and the tell-tale icons.
Hanseatic League ships were shown as they ploughed on towards the planet. Two of their craft were shown approaching the FedCom jumpship whose icon blinked red and then disappeared. A golden show of smaller contacts were converging on the once mighty Jade Falcon vessel, their larger parent close behind.
“Get us out of here,†snarled Pershaw.
“But our fighters...â€
The Khan’s augmented fingers dug into the young aide’s shoulder, driving him squealing into his seat.
“They are dead!†snapped Pershaw, “as will we be, if you do not carry out my orders!â€
Space distorted around the tortured metal, its shape wavering briefly before it disappeared. The lone M-5 scanned the area, communicated briefly with the satellite and then changed its course, the attack drones mirroring its move.
Remaining Jade Falcon pilots stared in dismay at the spot where their warship had been. They had been left behind. No attack drones harried them. One Star Commander checked his remaining fuel, took a decision and led his remaining pilots towards the waiting planet.
*
Captain-General De La Cruz laughed when the jumpship exploded, crowed with delight at the Clan warship’s demise and rubbed his hands with glee when he received reports from his dropships. It was short-lived.
The remaining Caspar was now on a collision course with his mini-fleet. He was still confident, it had been relatively easy to defeat the first one. Warnings flashed on the main panel in front of him. They had been painted and it was coming from the asteroid belt.
*
Systems within the defence satellite were at almost one hundred percent. Its mass-projectile system was no use against the Hanseatic League fleet. It did though have other options.
Small ports began to open on the meteor-pocked surface, conical heads protruding from within. Flight-paths were quickly calculated and flames licked out from the newly uncovered depressions. First one volley and then another blasted their way forth, arcing out from the small planetoid, curving away and realigning themselves. Their miniscule brains accepted course adjustments and then the missiles locked onto their targets.
League fighters raced towards them, autocannons and lasers peppering the oncoming horde. Missiles exploded, in some cases taking their wing mates with them. Pilots sacrificed themselves to defend the fleet, but it was simply insufficient.
Point defence systems roared to life, angrily spitting an expanding cone of uranium-tipped slugs. Missiles flew out to meet their unfriendly brethren. It was simply not enough. The second volley was upon them.
Evasive manoeuvres were franticly taken, the fleet splitting apart. These though were Star League designed weapons, changes of target course had been anticipated. Smaller, fleeter ships might have a chance, but not the larger vessels.
“Brace for impact!†The voice on the speaker system added to the panic.
De La Cruz watched as the wicked lights representing the missiles came closer. Little by little, their number was diminishing, but there just was not enough time.
He watched the numbers by the side of one of the icons reduce. This one had their name on it.
“Impact in three...two...one!â€
-
Chapter Twelve
The twisted remains of the Hanseatic League Fleet hung in space, the M-5 prowling through the wreckage like some satiated, yet still predatory, shark. Those drones that remained flitted to and fro, picking over the scraps. League jumpships still remained on the outskirts of the system, but were considered insufficient threat to warrant any further action. At last satisfied, the huge warship gathered up its flock and moved towards the asteroid belt.
Within the shell of his cruiser, Captain-General De La Cruz sat within one of the surviving shuttles. He had been bundled there by his marines, when it became obvious that little could be done. The massive missile strike had destroyed his fleet’s offensive capabilities and almost destroyed him.
Afterwards, the Caspar had methodically whittled its way through the damaged craft, expending attack drones where necessary.
De La Cruz remembered giving the order for evacuation and redirecting his fighters to the already landed forces. Some had made it through, as had a pair of destroyers which had fought their way out of the system. The League would know of the dangers of this world and would hopefully return. Now he needed to get himself back with his forces.
Debris clunked softly against the shell of the main ship. His shuttle was clamped inside, using the screening detritus as a decoy. When he was softly informed of the M-5’s departure he gave the order for disengagement. The clamps were released and the shuttle floated free, occasional uses of its positioning jets an accepted risk. Like so much else scrap within the fleet’s graveyard, it drifted slowly towards the planet.
*
Star Captain Hugo Von Jankmonn saw the craft appear on his screen, its telltale wisps of flame identifying it. He smiled cruelly to himself. It
seemed as though he had not been the only one in need of subterfuge.
The vast volley of missiles and the drone attack had left him with little option. His orders had not been well-received but discipline within the Clan was paramount. No doubt there would be challenges over his right to command if they survived this.
Only eight of the Omnifighters had survived. They had taken up their position closer to the now destroyed FedCom jumpship, which the League destroyers had deserted. Von Jankmonn knew that time was running out for them. Decision made, he ordered his fighters to power up their engines and it was then he heard the alarm of a target lock. Franticly he searched for his opponent and saw the huge blip on his screen. A FedCom destroyer; it must have been docked to the jumpship.
A voice crackled over his comm., “This is Captain Stefan Darling of the Dark Falcons. You are under cover of my forward batteries and I am preparing to fire. Identify yourself!â€
Hugo Von Jankmonn began to laugh, his men joining in as they too heard the repeated transmission.
Captain Darling looked at his exec. Officer, who previously had been a Jade Falcon himself. The man looked as puzzled as his Captain.
Eventually Von Jankmonn controlled himself enough to speak, “This is Star Captain Hugo Von Jankmonn, formerly of the Jade Falcons. Permission to come aboard.â€
“Granted, but remember we have you under our guns still.â€
“Do not worry, Captain, you will have no trouble from us. The Dark Falcons...we should have known...†and Von Jankmonn burst into uncontrolled laughter once again.
-
Jax’s orders to Arn had been fairly specific. He was not to engage the BattleMechs nor the dropship itself. Others would take care of that particular problem. They had two specific areas of conflict, with the plain close to the Complex being the larger. What exactly the Lieutenant had in mind, Arn was not sure, but his role was fairly clear. All he needed now was the signal.
Finally it came and Hauser led the way in the first of the light tanks, giving the landing area a wide berth and approaching the city from the far side. A warning had been given that they would be detected by the League troops in the dropship, but Jax had promised he would deal with that problem himself. When they received the green light, Hauser initiated their attack; the two tanks spearheading their approach, with the APC’s behind. Before they reached the city outskirts he had already opened fire, missiles arcing up and away to slam into the rear wall. Their impact gouged huge craters in the brickwork, which had been designed to resist cannon fire, but no architect could have imagined the brutal force which would be employed today.
PPC’s spat forth their lethal charges, burning rock and collapsing the what had previously appeared an imposing structure. The machines growling over their self-made entry ramps, lasers flashing. Once inside, the APC’s doors opened and Arn led his troops out. Sporadic fire met them, but was of little import; their autorifles and lasers silenced the resistance almost as soon as it had begun. The tanks needed no roadways; they made their own. Buildings collapsed with their passage, the APC’s being just a little more delicate.
Horses screamed and bolted, throwing their brightly-armoured riders to the floor. Soldiers fired once and then ran for cover. There was none. Little by little, Arn’s troops advanced towards the palace. Sowing mayhem and destruction as they passed.
*
The two BattleMechs had turned to face the perceived threat. Their tactical displays identified the machines which even now were terrorising the city. Conflicting orders were received, which was why they did not immediately move to engage the tanks. Doors began to open on the dropship to allow the passage of their fellow Mechwarriors when the ground opened beneath them, literally.
Attack drones flashed overhead, five groups of five, which scoured the area with missile and laser fire. The Rifleman which had been about to march into the city faltered, then staggered under the incoming barrage. Armour was stripped from the machine’s structure before its pilot managed to steady himself and return fire. His SRM’s streaked upwards, but missed the sleek fighters. It was difficult to concentrate on individual targets. The dropship defences burst into life, as did its engines. An inexperienced officer had given the order to lift off, countermanding his superior’s previous intentions.
The ship lifted slightly, its movement catapulting a Jenner from the ramp, as the ship twisted under its load. Face down the Mech fell, slamming forward in an untidy heap and still the Voidseekers attacked. A shuttle skimmed the nearby hillside and disgorged its troops. Jumpjets flared as the Elementals righted themselves and then bounded into action. Elana had arrived.
*
On the plain near to the complex, League forces were better prepared. Yet they had not expected to be attacked without warning. Their fighters patrolled the skies, but were unprepared for the missiles which raced towards them, nor the drones which shot out from the complex. They were forced away from protecting the dropships and into a fight for survival.
Camouflaged doors dropped down in the hillside, vomiting forth light tanks and ground troops. Jax’s call to Elana had given him another edge, and machines never seen since the height of the Star League stalked majestically onto the field. Heavy Mechs whose only purpose in life was to smash their enemies again saw the light of day. They were few, but deadly.
-
Although Julius’ troops were outgunned and outclassed, they were not all cowards. Arn and his men neared the palace, where they learnt this fact.
A number of swivel guns had been set with their barrels depressed to cover the approaches to the principal building. Three were fired in quick succession, their mortiferous charges sweeping the first of Arn’s troops away, leaving a bloody mound of broken flesh and bone. Conn did not think twice, bursting through the buildings door and storming up the stairs.
He kicked open the door to the roof, his autorifle on full automatic. Rounds sprayed into the backs of the men who were franticly reloading their bulbous weapons.
Hauser, in the lead tank wiped away a similar position. His tank simply drove through the corner of the building in front of him, tumbling men and weapons to the ground. A ragged barricade protected the main entrance to the palace and Arn, still angry at the loss of his men, ordered the APC’s to fire. Brilliant beams of energy lashed the mound of carts, boxes and sand bags, incinerating everything in hell fire. Arn used the vehicles as cover, pouring his own fire into any survivors.
Horses whinnied and a last ditch cavalry charge was thrown at them. Resplendent in their armour, the brave men rode down the ramps near the palace screaming their battle cries. These were the vicious men who had butchered innocents and Arn had only rage in his heart for them. Missiles burst in their midst, flinging beast and rider high into the air. Lasers licked at those who avoided the explosions and autorifle rounds smashed them to the floor.
Nothing was left except the sounds of dying men and animals.
“Put them out of their misery!†snapped Arn, as he strode towards the main entrance.
*
Elana led her Elementals into battle. Here was an enemy which could at least provide some opposition. One Star powered its way toards the Rifleman, attaching itself to arms and legs. Lasers stabbed into joints and machine guns hammered away at the openings created. The pilot inside the Mech tried to shake them off, but they were relentless.
The dropship had not succeeded in its attempt to take off and wavered under the drones’ attack. With their jumpjets flaring, the remaining Elementals entered the still open door and took their fight deep into the heart of the vessel. There were no power armoured defenders and the Mechs inside were restricted by space and lack of ability, not so the Dark Falcon Assault Team.
*
On the plain, Jax’s light tanks sped towards their foes, PPC’s, lasers and missiles spearing in front of them. Gauss rifles barked, throwing silvery balls at high velocity, yet this was no one-sided fight. The Hanseatic League forces had disembarked their Mechs and their own mechanised infantry and were no green troops. Their commander had a battle he could fight and he did so with venom. Irrespective of his lack of air support, he managed to lift his dropships from the ground and they added their own firepower to that of his other resources.
He was congratulating himself on his quick reaction; his light lance had raced around the right flank and was pouring fire into the Dark Falcon ground troops, supported by his rapidly arriving mobile infantry. That was until the one hundred ton Pillager jumped into their midst. With twin Gauss rifles, a large laser and four medium lasers it was a match for any of the League Mechs. The light lance was in real trouble.
*
“We have a signal from Captain Darling, Sir,†said David, from where he sat near to the Tactical Screen, “he reports all safe and that he has picked up a few recruits. It seems that the Clan Warship left behind a few fighters. They are eager tojon the fight.â€
“Negative,†said Jax, “they are all we have out there, human that is, and we need their eyes and ears. We have enough equipment here to deal with the Hanseatic League forces. If we need them to intervene, I will let him know.â€
“Captain Darling also indicates that a shuttle survived and is on its way to the planet.â€
“Anything untoward about it?†asked Jax off-handedly.
“He says not, but is willing to intercept it if you wish,†replied David.
“Thank him, but we will take care of it when it arrives.â€
David nodded, turning to close the communication. There were a number of icons on the screen off-planet, many in fact the remnants of the Hanseatic Fleet. He also saw that the M-5 had retaken its position near to the satellite, its drones powering down as they returned to their respective bases. All seemed quiet.
*
Captain De La Cruz cursed at the lack of speed of the shuttle. Is personal Marine Guard were with him and data whipped back and forth between his men on the ground and his craft. The disaster of the space battle had been pushed to the back of his mind as he concentrated on the two separate battles below. Whoever was responsible for the attack on is troops appeared to have taken control of the expected Star League prize and were proving themselves a hard nut to crack.
Esteban, his ground commander had reported mainly mechanised opposition, supported by light troops. He had lost contact with the third dropship, which had been apparently attacked by aerofighters, although they had BattleMechs capable of holding their own. Eagerly, De La Cruz planned his strategy, he intended to take personal control when he landed.
*
Inside the third dropship, and in particular its Mech Bay, hell had broken loose. A young officer’s excited command had left half a lance of Mech’s trapped inside, with their own worst nightmare. Movement was impossible for them within the restricted space, yet they fought. Their autocannons chattered as they tried to catch the lither battle-armoured figures, but to no avail. Instead their rounds tore through walls, bulkheads and their own personnel. Elana split her people; half to deal with the cornered Mechs and the rest to take the ship. Both actions were necessary and fundamentally messy.
Time was of the essence. Jax had stressed that point. Elana took him at his word. Machine guns blew away the weakly armoured marines, power armour shrugging off their ineffectual weapons. Desperate defence provided little in the way of objective resistence.
-
Chapter Thirteen
Captain Darling hated inactivity. He was severely restricted in his ability to carry out anything but minor repairs on his damaged ship. The destroyer had already been in a bad way when it had docked with the FedCom jumpship and was little more than a transport right now. The addition of the omnifighters had increased his defensive capabilities, but he knew he would last little time in a real fight.
It was because of this, he sent Von Jankmonn and his men out on patrol. If nothing else it gave him, and them, something to do, whilst he waited for the outcome of the battle below.
Star Captain Von Jankmonn ghosted his fighter into the asteroid belt. They had agreed that a survey of the system was important. Knowing of the satellite and the M-5 was insufficient. This system had been seeded by the Star League and then forgotten. Any more surprises could be fatal if not dealt with now. Von Jankmonn had sent his pilots on differing courses, in this way he was better able to cover the ground. He himself had chosen the area close to the now dormant M-5.
It was as he neared the drone that he began to become excited. His sensors began picking up a large concentration of metal on a nearby asteroid and he kicked his engine in for a better look. Approaching the dark side of the ball of rock, he began to see buildings, or at least what appeared to be so. Gantries stretched out into space and as he rotated his craft, his on-board computer went crazy, alarms ringing in an excited frenzy.
He dropped one wing and swooped down to what he had at first thought was yet another ruin. Before him, coming into focus as the asteroid rotated was the unmistakable shape of a large craft. It had confused him, due to the fact that its cylindrical shape was broken by a large protrusion. There were in fact two craft, one attached to the other by a docking ring.
“Freebirth!†he cursed in surprise, as his computer recognised the larger craft.
“Von Jankmonn to Captain Darling,†he transmitted in an excited voice.
“Yes, Star Captain,†replied Darling in a weary voice.
“I think that I have found something that you might be interested in. Data is being transmitted, now!â€
There was silence for a moment and then he heard a gasp of surprise.
“Are you sure of this?†queried Darling.
Von Jankmonn bit back an angry retort, then spoke, “It is no figment of my imagination,†he said, “and the recognition pattern is clear. We seem to have found the possibility of a ride out of here.â€
“Good,†said the Captain, “please return to the ship. I would like come as close to your position as possible, and then inspect the vessel myself. Well done, Star Captain.â€
With a wry smile, Von Jankmonn cut the transmission and gazed once more at the more than pleasant surprise below him. It was not every day that you found a Congress Class Frigate left abandoned. The shape attached to it had also been recognised, and as a fighter pilot he grinned internally at the large aerodyne. His computer had identified it as a Vengeance Class Fighter Carrier, and he wondered what else he might find inside.
*
Military resistance nullified within the city, Arn led his men out to support Elana. There had been no sign of General Julius, nor of his vaunted artillery. The cavalry detachment had been the last real opposition, the rest of the soldiers either surrendering or running away. He did not have the men to take prisoners and had sent them out of the city, away from the fighting. His message had been that further troops were on their way and they would be picked up by his comrades.
Arn supposed that once they found themselves free of the city, they would keep running. It was of little interest to him at the moment. His concern was rather in the location of the General. In truth, he was not worried about the Dark Falcons’ ability to deal with the man, but something did not sit right.
*
Emperor Julius, was at that moment not far away. He had fled the city with his trusted men and joined the balance of his troops where they were bivouacked within a wooded area to the north. Esteban had asked him to maintain his men well away from the landing area and warned him of the fallacy of any overt act. Julius had professed his complete understanding and yet, still had his artillery set up defensive positions, just in case. He had never intended to pit his obviously inferior weaponry against the gods, demons, or whatever they were. No, he had merely tried to give himself a head start, if things went wrong.
Looking down on the frantic scene below, he realised that his worst fears had come to pass. The demons had arrived in number, by air and on foot, and even now were destroying his new allies. Explosions from the city had proven that his men there had fought, but had ultimately been defeated, and he watched as a group of strange machines trundled forth from the main gate. There were four of them, followed by two groups of infantry. These appeared to be more normally armoured and it was to them he decided to send his parting message.
With a cruel grin, he ordered his artillery officer to open fire, and then made his way to the rear of the camp, ostensibly to consult with his aides.
-
In comparison with the sheer power of the PPC’s, or the coruscating fire of the medium lasers, the artillery barrage of Julius’ forces was pitiful. Held within one missile was more concentrated destruction than that of their total firepower. That said, it was not a mere flyswat, nor were the artillerymen shoddy in their duty.
Long tongues of flame licked from each barrel, the tamped explosive propelling the metal balls with scarce contained fury. Each shot struck and bounced, skipping off the hardened earth with intent and purpose. Some actually struck the light tanks, vaulting high in the air as they were repelled by the thick armour. Others continued on their merry way, avoiding all of their intended targets, but one did what it was supposed to do. It struck, with most of its energy expended, the second squad, bowling two soldiers over. They were dead from the massive shock almost immediately as their bodies were pulverised. The second wave was canister.
Screaming metal spheres arced high into the air, expelling their kinetic energy high above Arn’s advancing troops, but with deadly effect. They split with a thunderous roar and showered the men with a rain of razor-sharp metallic fragments, scything what was left of the second squad from their feet. There was no possibility of a third strike.
Hauser swung his turret towards the now revealed position and released all of his available missiles. For them, there were no vagaries of targeting, their on-board computers guiding them. Metal, trees, earth and the remains of human bodies spattered their colleagues. They were the lucky ones.
Laser and PPC fire extinguished any possible threat. Intense heat burned and fused metal to skin, or simply flashed them into superheated steam. A forest fire was started, the following wind blowing it quickly towards Julius’ main encampment. Neither Arn, nor Hauser were the least concerned with collateral damage. They wanted blood.
Almost lethargically the light tanks and APC’s rolled up the slight incline, guns firing. Arn almost believed he could see their barrels glowing in anger, as they spat destruction towards the ambushers. He himself wanted the ground razed and Julius’ head on a stick. There was no doubt in his mind who had ordered the attack.
On they rolled, through the furnace, passing into the trees and now Arn took the lead, Conn by his side. Any who moved were mown down pitilessly. As they topped a slight rise, Arn saw the group of tents huddled in the centre of a small clearing. Conn took a missile launcher from one of his men and with a savage grin, locked onto the target and fired. Cloth disintegrated in explosion and as the smoke cleared, they saw a small troop of riders spurring their horses away, the distinctive garb of an Emperor at their head.
“Not this frakking time!†snarled Arn, pushing Conn aside and snatching another of the weapons.
He aimed ahead of the fleeing troop, tearing a huge tree up by its roots. It crashed down, flailing branches adding to the roar of the explosions. Men and horses were in turmoil. Mounts screaming in pain where they had been pierced by wooden shrapnel adding to the fear of those animals still hale. At a flat run, Arn charged forward, autorifle at the hip.
A hail of rounds stitched into the rear of the group as he came within range. More well-spaced fire began to pick off Julius’ men, but Arn ignored them. He flung his rifle aside and withdrew his combat knife, leaping onto the back of the first horse he came to. One vicious swipe and he was past, Julius in his sights.
The Emperor drew his sword, turning his mount with a display of dexterity and brute strength. Kicking his heels into the animal’s side, he drove it down upon Arn who, knife in hand, awaited him.
There was a bright flash of light, which seemed to burn the very air by Arn’s side and when he could see again, Julius was no more.
“Frakker!†was the only word which rang in his ear, as Hauser swivelled his tank’s turret and backed away.
-
Hmm...a dormant M5.
-
Hmm...a dormant M5.
;)
-
“What is our situation?â€
Elana was, as usual, succinct and the reply mirrored her expectations.
“The fight within the bay is under control.â€
She cut the communication and motioned her lead Elemental forward. Resistance had been light, up until now, perhaps the sheer audacity of their attack had stunned the defenders. It was never going to last. As if in answer to her thoughts, a grenade skittered down the corridor. Its fuse was short. The crump of the explosion was deadened by her suit, but she watched as her companion was blown backwards.
He rose with a snarl, more angry than damaged, and not waiting for her command leapt forward.
“No!†she barked, her hand moving ineffectually as though to draw him back. It was too late.
The corridor became a raging ball of fire, as twin explosions rocked them. Whatever they were not, these Hanseatic League forces were no cowards. They had destroyed the bulkhead, the force of the blast collapsing the ceiling and shredding the battle suit. He was still alive, his oaths testifying to the fact, but would not be taking any further part in the assault. Perhaps he would learn some caution, and she would not have to beat him senseless for his stupidity.
“Clear the corridor,†her transmission was heard by all, as she targeted the tangled mess of metal. If the League forces wanted to play the game that way, she had no intention of walking into the next trap. Direct, as Jax was wont to say, was effective and wasted little time. Quite often, it was unexpected.
The missile’s lock pinged and she fired, adding to the conflagration and blasting a new access port. Troops had begun to scurry away, their job done. They just were a little slow.
Elana liked her toys and this was an Inferno missile. Explosive enough as ordinance, and as deadly as a fusionairre hangover. The flammable gel meant for eating through Mech armour, melting the League soldiers where they stood. There was no time for long screams of pain, as they disappeared in a welter of boiling fat. Some escaped and they were the unlucky ones.
“We are not going to stop until this is over. Barricades will be treated with extreme prejudice, as will the next Freebirth who decides he wants a bloodname!â€
She did not wait for a reply, instead firing her laser into the squirming survivors. It was not an act of mercy, merely good practice.
*
Jax watched as his assault Mechs ripped apart the light lance which opposed them. Tanks tried to withstand the attack, but they had never been designed to face such monsters. He could almost envision the terror on the League soldiers faces as they watched the approach.
“More Mechs,†said Elias, “ and this time they are not toys.â€
“Send in Binetti,†he said, “tell him to rough them up a little.â€
Elias smiled, as he also noticed their own armour racing for the flank. Techs in simulators controlled them. Only in the Dark Falcons, he thought, can a lower caste have so much fun.
-
Dude, I just want to see the Automated SDS wreck some stuff. ;D
-
Dude, I just want to see the Automated SDS wreck some stuff. ;D
Patience my boy, patience.... ;D
-
Chapter Fourteen
Captain Stefan Darling was not known for being the most vociferous of officers, although even he was moved to curse in appreciation. Their identification codes were no longer a problem after Elias had interfaced with the SDS and nothing had tried to impede either their approach or landing.
Von Jankmonn had flown all around the two ships and insisted on entering the Vengeance Class Carrier first. Strangely Darling had not stood on ceremony, only ordering his shuttle to dock directly with the frigate. Self-contained suits had been worn until the Techs had managed to awaken the craft’s own power supply. The Star League vessel had not been abandoned, but appeared to have been carefully shut down, left for its next authorized visitors in a state of pristine preservation.
Control boards lit up, as power was routed through them, whilst Captain Darling sat on the bridge, his fingers idly caressing the arms of his new command chair. Green light after green light showed that the Congress class frigate was fully stocked for action. The only thing of little use was that of crew stores and that could be easily rectified.
“Frak!†murmured the Captain as his weapons array came on line and the fusion reactors powered up.
If he had been a culinary wizard looking at a gourmet meal, he could not have dribbled any more in anticipation. Sixteen Naval Autocannons; eight NAC-10’s on the forward section and eight NAC-30’s to the rear. Real Capital missile systems and eight large lasers. He was in heaven.
The inventory showed six aerospace fighters, although none of the expected shuttles. Darling supposed that they had been used to leave the frigate.
“You are not going to believe this,†Von Jankmonn’s voice echoed tinnily in his ear, his enthusiasm palpable.
“Oh, I don’t know,†replied Captain Darling, laconically.
“This Fighter Carrier has forty Star League aerofighters sat here, just waiting for pilots. They are not as good as my Visigoth, but we have just struck gold.â€
There was a pause, then Von Jankmonn asked whether Darling had heard him. His only reply was a very uncharacteristic laugh.
*
Arn held Hauser up against a tree by his throat, with Conn trying desperately to calm him down.
“Did I ask you to fire?†he asked as he shook Hauser roughly.
“Ga-a-h!†said Hauser.
“What? I can’t hear you.†And he shook him again.
“Arn!†Conn had grabbed his leader’s arm and was using brute strength to haul him away, “If he’s dead, he’ll never answer you.â€
With a sideways throw, Arn dropped Hauser to the ground, where his tank commander gasped for breath.
“Not only,†he said furiously, “did you toast Julius, but you almost burned the rest of the squad. If you ever…â€
There was the scream of missiles. They smashed through the nearby trees, sending men scrambling for cover. The heavy clank of footfalls signaled the arrival of something large, heavy and extremely angry, judging by the damage it was doing.
“This,†said Arn pointing a finger at Hauser in admonition, “is not over.â€
Hauser mouthed, “Love you too†at Arn’s back and then screamed at his men to mount up. There were Mech’s out there to kill. Once Arn had shot a few people and destroyed something, he would easily forget about their little arguement.
A heavy hand grasped his collar and he fell backwards. Looking up, he saw Conn’s face leaning over him.
“I saw what you did,†he said grinning, “and if you survive, then I personally will make it my mission in life to teach you some respect.â€
He dragged Hauser up, planting a hefty kick in the seat of his pants and propelling him towards his waiting crew.
“And Hauser?â€
“Yes, Conn?†the chastened tanker replied.
“I love you too, and you can’t imagine how much fun I’m going to have showing you just how much…â€
Blood drained from Hauser’s face as Conn moved to follow Arn. You’ve done it this time, the tanker thought morosely, you stupid frakker. His self-flagellation did not last long, as his tank’s engine roared to life. With a roar of enthusiasm he launched himself up to the turret, threats of dire punishment forgotten in the joy of battle.
-
“Are we ready?†Captain Darling had a glee-filled smile on his face.
They had cast off the relatively useless ex-FedCom craft, transferring all personnel to their ancient, but new and shiny in Darling’s eyes, Congress Class frigate. Von Jankmonn and a select few were the exceptions; it would have taken the famous Precentor Projectile itself to have parted him from his new toys.
Affirmatives from around the Bridge made the Captain’s smile almost split his face and he punched the correct sequence to fire the engines. The craft began to gather speed carefully, as it manoeuvred out of the debris-strewn asteroid belt.
“Take us towards the planet,†he commanded, “Von Jankmonn can show us how his babies perform.â€
*
Arn could now see the source of all the heavy clanking and explosions; it was a Phoenix Hawk, although he had no idea of it being anything else than trouble. Twin machine guns chattered, throwing a hail of fire out towards where Hauser and his tanks were waiting. This time the contentious tanker was doing as he was told. Bright light stabbed out, setting the surrounding woodland on fire; greasy smoke began to roll forth and Arn grinned.
“Hauser?â€
The answer was immediate.
“Here...â€
“Can this thing see you?â€
There was a studied pause, “Us? Yes, but I am not so sure about you.â€
“Good,†said Arn, waving his arm to Conn, “wait until we have attacked and then follow us in to finish this devilish thing. Do you understand?â€
“Of course!†snapped Hauser, “...Sir.â€
“And Hauser...?â€
“Sir?†this time the response was unforced.
“Make sure you can see us ... this time...â€
*
Whether or not the pilot of the Phoenix Hawk saw them or was merely incompetent became a moot point as the Inferno missile hit. Gelatinous fire spread thickly around the impact point, adding to the heat load already generated by the alternate PPC and Laser fire. The Mechwarrior inside had taken those steps forward which his terrain allowed and now he paid for it.
Conn slapped an explosive charge on the right heel of the Mech as it struggled to maintain its balance. Arn waited for him to get clear and then activated the shaped charge; the blast punched inwards, not shearing the ankle, but crumpling the armour and twisting the myomer fibre inside. As the joint touched the floor, the Mech’s own forty-five tonnes did the rest. With a screech of metal, the right knee was forced down by the unequal weight and touched the floor.
It seemed as if the huge war machine was kneeling in prayer in a vain attempt to stave off what was to follow. The body of the Mech strained as the pilot struggled with recalcitrant servos; the effort only drove its articulated limbs further into the churned up earth.
“Now!†screamed Arn and Hauser burst through the trees in a splintering rush, his confederates close behind.
Muzzle flashes and ionised particles mixed in a strange light show. A Sabot round hit the Hawk squarely on its chest, its explosive force inadvertently saving the Mechwarrior inside. The head of the Mech slapped back and so the PPC only followed its mechanical comrade in destroying armour and did not hit its real target.
Conn’s voice echoed in Arn’s helmet, “Frakker still can’t hit what he’s aiming at.â€
Maybe not, thought Arn, but he’s damned effective though. He was just grateful that the maniac was on their side.
-
Captain De La Cruz was well aware of the battle below and of how his forces had been split in two. The third dropship would have to fend for itself.
“Get us down there!â€
His finger pointed at what appeared to be the least dangerous spot; a wide area, littered to one side with the smoking corpses of men and tanks. The fighting had moved on, yet it was still close enough to where the Hanseatic dropships hovered.
“I want a secure line!â€
His orders were fired without any real target, in arrogance he merely expected to be obeyed. With a soft bump, the shuttle settled and De La Cruz was half-way out before the ramp touched earth. His marines hurried to keep up with him as he barked instructions to his Ground Commander.
An APC roared up, disgorging troops which surrounded the vulnerable shuttle. The Captain stomped into the vehicle, tearing the headset from the communications officer inside and keeping up a constant tirade.
Mechs and mobile infantry units began to withdraw, concentrating on forming up as he dictated. It was a rash move and subject to punishment, as drones poured laser fire into the backward marching monsters. Jax’s tanks now had much easier targets and they took advantage.
A hovercar raced to a stop and Esteban jumped out. He stood on little ceremony.
“What the frak do you think you are doing...Sir!â€
The recognition of De La Cruz’s rank was grudging; incompetent actions were killing his men and he had little time for it.
“Open your mouth in that fashion again,†snapped the Captain, “and it will be the last thing you do!â€
Esteban glared at his commanding officer, his pistol hand twitching close to his holstered weapon, but the sight of the ready autorifles in the Marines’ hands swayed him.
“Sir!†he snapped, punctuating his comment with a sharp parade-ground salute, “Your orders, Sir?â€
“It is time for us to fight back,†De La Cruz said stiffly, “enough cowering. We will concentrate all of our forces on this one point,†his finger stabbed at the outline of the terrain displayed on his tactical screen, “where they least expect us.â€
His subordinate said nothing. In his own mind he was saying goodbye.
“Carry on...†said De La Cruz smugly.
“Sir!†agreed Esteban, wondering what chance he had in shooting the frakker and claiming battle fatigue.
The decision was taken away from him as something slammed into the side of the APC, rocking the heavy vehicle as though it was an insignificant feather in a wild breeze.
“What the...â€
De La Cruz screamed as the cabin in front of him crumpled and then sheared. A huge mechanical foot raised up slightly and then repositioned itself. He could hear the ominous sound of autocannon rounds lancing out and then the distinctive whack of a Gauss Rifle. Esteban did not wait for permission, he threw himself out of the still open door, curling into a ball as he rolled away. With a crunch of metal the huge Mech stomped down again and all of Captain De La Cruz’s plans disappeared completely.
-
It's great to read this again, Rayo! Thanks for posting!
-
I'm feeling generous...here's Chapter Fifteen in its entirety ;D
Chapter Fifteen
Arn and his team moved out of the woodland, aiming for the Dropship which hovered drunkenly near the city. Comm chatter painted a picture of the hell inside the craft; curses, screams and background noise indicated fierce fighting and death. He deliberately reined in Hauser who was all for shooting the craft out of the sky, his naturally bellicose nature reinforced by the detruction of the Mech.
As they approached, the lower left side of the ship shuddered, writhing and twisting as though sheltering an oversize child, more than ready for birth. Again and again the hull shivered, before exploding outwards. The figure of an Elemental could be seen amidst the roiling flame and smoke, thrown forcefully away from the skin of the ship. Lifeless, it eventually crashed to the earth.
“What are they doing in there?†asked Conn, as a bright beam shot forth, the metal to the side of the rent glowing white-hot.
“Dying?†broke in the voice of Hauser, more subdued than normal, “Can we help, Sir?â€
“No, we wait,†replied Arn, “Elana is still in there.â€
*
The Mech Bay was an inferno of sound and fire; the necessity for speed had been impressed on all the Elementals and they had obeyed to the letter. Missiles had quickly been expended, shattering armour and articulated joints. Machine gun and laser fire had downed semi-protected troops and added to the noise, but the biggest offenders had been the trapped League Mechs.
Initially, the fury of the attack had rocked the Hanseatic forces; there were no respected rules of engagement and they had been punished for their tardiness. They were, however, quick learners.
Medium lasers and PPC’s sliced through decking, storage crates and an occasional Elemental alike. Autocannon rounds hammered any available target, and even those perceived as being a threat. Burning equipment and packaging threw a pall of oily smoke in between the two forces and helped to reduce the overwhelming advantage of firepower.
The Elementals darkened armour blended in with their surroundings, but enhanced imaging still found them, until the flames themselves blurred their outlines. Teams of two and three attacked each of the semi-operational Mechs, whose pilots had determined that their best chance was to stand and fight together. LRM’s were useless and SRM’s a last, point-blank resort. It was one such desperate solution which had torn the ship’s fabric, allowing some of the smoke to dissipate.
The remaining Elementals huddled in two small groups for a last charge, their ammunition almost spent. None of the Mechs would be capable of leaving the Bay, but this had devolved to a purely animalistic level. It was kill or be killed.
*
They had taken the bridge; prisoners sat close to each other, their hands clasped behind their heads, but it did not feel like a victory. The ship shuddered under the concussive explosions from below and protested at the handling of the captured flight deck crew. It was becoming increasingly difficult to keep the Dropship in the air and Elana’s thoughts were with her people below.
“Get us on the ground!â€
The Hanseatic prisoners rushed to obey.
“Once we are down, two of you will get these surats off,†the men detailed, nodded in agreement, “the rest of you with me.â€
Her headset crackled, “This is Arn, we are holding outside, waiting to hear how we can help.â€
“How many do you have with you,†asked Elana curtly.
“Two men are injured, apart from them we are at full strength. Our tanks will be of little use unless the Mechs punch their way out, which they seem to be intent on doing.â€
“Ignore the Mechs,†said Elana, “get your team on board as soon as we settle on the ground. The tanks will be a safety net, just in case one of the Mechs breaks free.â€
“Understood,†agreed Arn, waving his men forward and hoping that at least this once, Hauser would do as he was told. For a moment, he had a vision of the mad tanker driving up the ramp, his PPC frying everything and everyone in his way.
*
The two remaining Hanseatic League destroyers had finally joined up with their jumpships. It was no fleet now, the SDS, Caspars and Voidseekers had seen to that. No-one considered the possibility of renewing their attack, especially since the appearance of a new opponent, which sat spider-like in its geosynchronous orbit.
On the deck of their new craft, Captain Darling drummed his fingers on the arm of his chair in barely controlled agitation. Von Jankmonn was becoming more demanding by the minute. At first he had been satisfied with his new squadron, now he wanted action and he was pressing for the Captain to make a decision.
“There are only two destroyers and a few fighters,†he insisted, “between us we can easily see them off.â€
“Jax was adamant that we remain here...†began the Captain, but was rudely interrupted.
“Who is this Jax?†he demanded, “a lieutenant? Mu understanding is that he holds a junior rank only, not even equivalent t your own. What gives him the right to command, circumstance only.â€
The ex-Jade Falcon’s arrogance bubbled close to the surface. He hated inactivity and above all cowardice. It was important that he show his new Khan what he was capable of doing, and the man in command below was not his Khan. It was impossible to challenge him personally, but he could take action; they could meet in a Trial of Position later.
Darling’s hand now caressed the chair’s arm and his irritation had disappeared. A FedCom Captain initially, he also was missing a true Dark Falcon loyalty. And, after all, he had a ship to prove.
*
Captain Darling ignored the increasingly agitated communications from Jax; he had made his mind up now.
“Full speed ahead. We want to get to those destroyers before they change their mind!â€
Von Jankmonn stood behind him, one hand resting lightly on the back of the Captain’s chair; his time would come, for now he was enjoying the adrenalin rush of disobedience.
“I want all weapons systems on line,†snapped Darling, “there will be no negotiation. We will show our comrades planet side exacty what we are capable of.â€
His Exec Officer looked worried and after receiving another message from his communications suite, finally found the courage to interrupt.
“Sir!†he stood rigidly to attention in front of his Captain, eyes focussing on the bulkhead behind, “Lieutenant Jax has given us a final ultimatum. We are to return to our previously assigned position, or he will activate both the SDS and the Caspar drone and take whatever action he sees fit.â€
“Let him!†snarled the Captain, “He will not attack us. This ship and Von Jankmonn’s fighters are too big a prize for the Dark Falcons.â€
“Sir,†insisted the Exec Officer, “we already have confirmation that the Caspar is powering up and fighter drones have been launched from the Defence System. Lieutenant Jax is not known for his inability to take a hard decision.â€
Captain Darling stared at the man, “I find your loyalty just a little questionable,†he hissed.
“Have no doubt, Sir,†replied his Exec, “I know where my loyalty lies...â€
With one swift movement he drew and fired his pistol, the accelerated charge taking Von Jankmonn high in the shoulder and spinning him around. Before he could fire again, Captain Darling dove to the right, clawing at his own holster. One of the nearby Marines fired his autorifle at the Exec, its rounds stitching a bloody pattern across his chest. As he struck the floor, his dying fingers squeezed off more rounds which ricocheted around the Bridge. Sides chosen, weapons drawn; the crew of the newest Dark Falcon vessel began to kill each other.
*
Jax watched his tactical screen and saw Darling’s course change slightly, although he still seemed intent on reaching the League destroyers. The Caspar was now under way and it would soon be too late to reverse his orders.
He saw the blips on his screen which represented the Hanseatic League ships, waver and then disappear. They had seen enough. It had been his intention to deal with them once he had suppressed their ground forces, but now Darling’s precipitate actions had forced them to run. Jax was sure that they would be back, and with help.
*
Arn waited as the dropship slammed to earth, its ramp already extended. Men and women poured from the ship, but he let them go; their fear precluded them from taking any aggressive action. Hauser rolled his tank forward, the barrel depressing to cover the soldiers’ flight.
“Hauser!†Arn snapped.
“Sir?â€
“You will not fire until I give the order!â€
There was a sheepish acknowledgement and as the last of the stragglers scrambled to the earth, Arn led his men up the ramp as instructed. Smoke billowed from the interior as the sound of heavy weapon fire continued. Feet pounded behind him in a comforting tattoo as he entered the darkened interior, his enhanced imaging within his helmet automatically swapping to infra red.
“Follow me,†he said, his sensors sweeping the interior, “and stay close. No heroics.â€
The bulkhead in front of him disappeared suddenly in a boiling conflagration, sending one of his men to the floor. Through the smoke, his sensors picked out the stubby shape of a missile pod and the outline of a huge metallic arm.
“Fire!†he commanded and felt the ship tremble as it was struck.
“Oh Frak!†he thought, “Hauser!â€
*
Blood pooled on the decking, running in sticky rivulets from the crumpled forms. Here and there slight movement indicated the vague stirrings of life, yet no-one controlled the huge vessel as it bored onwards. Von Jankmonn regained consciousness, struggling against pain and the blackness which threatened to crash over him. The slug had torn its way through his chest muscles, entering at an oblique angle and so saving his life.
He rolled onto his left side and saw Darling’s heels drumming spasmodically on the decking. It seemed as though the Exec had succeeded in his destructive plan. Alarms shrilled; a repetitive monotone which clamoured for attention.
“Stand down, I repeat, stand down. If we do not receive confirmation of our order, we will be forced to take decisive action. You have been warned...â€
The pilot’s body had been genetically created to withstand the effects of mind numbing pressure and so he shrugged away the pain. Little by little, he dragged himself to the communications array. One hand rose, a finger inching its way to the transmit button. With an almost superhuman effort, he closed the key.
“Do not shoot....Darling dead...no crew left...â€
Gasping he crumpled to the floor, the oblivion he had been searching for, welcoming him in its embrace.
*
Jax had heard the transmission and could only guess at the state of the ship’s crew. He had a choice; belive them and let them go, or give the order to fire. He waited.
“Sir?â€
“We wait,†he said, “there is no-one for them to fight with, and right now we have other concerns to deal with. Get me Elana!â€
*
Hauser did not wait for further commands, pointing his tank up the dropship’s ramp.
“You will all wait for me here.â€
It was a statement, rather than an order. The tanker was known for his rash decisions and his temper. Today was not the day to challenge him.
He gunned his engine, his battle cannon pointing the way, as the ramp shook beneath his vehicle’s snarling climb. Arn could skin him later. Hauser knew that the relatively lightly armoured troopers would stand little chance against a Mech. With this baby though, he could at least even the odds, a little.
*
“What the frak is that?â€
Conn’s voice was almost apologetic; they knew who it was. They were pinned down behind a temporary barricade of tumbled packing cases. Two of Arn’s men were already down; their sprawled figures testifying to the brute efficiency of an autocannon round at close range.
“For once,†muttered Arn, “I can truthfully say that I’m happy to see him.â€
The snout of the tank’s cannon pushed through the shattered entrance, its arc of fire limited. With a belch of pure rage, the gun spoke.
-
Chapter Sixteen
“Sir...Sir!â€
Von Jankmonn tried to focus on the young woman’s face before him.
“Who...are... you?â€
“Technician O’Donnel,Sir,†she replied, relief flooding her face, “there was some shooting, but it all seems quiet now.â€
The pilot struggled to his feet, using the nearby control panel to support him. He could see dead bodies all around, pools of blood gathering in a sticky testament to the violence, so recently witnessed in the Control Room. Vague figures moved slowly in his vision and his memory came roaring back.
“The Caspar...!â€
“Sir?â€
He saw then how young they all were and wondered where they had come from.
O’Donnel continued, as though speaking she could dismiss the abhorrent scenes from her mind.
“We were working on the relays, when we heard the shooting. No-one wanted to come and find out what was going on, but eventually we had to.â€
“Quite,†said Von Jankmonn absent- mindedly, as he scanne the rest of the crew on the Bridge, “can anyone work the communications array?â€
“Davies can, but...â€
“Then, get me Davies,†interrupted Von Jankmonn, “ we need to get in touch with Jax and quickly.â€
*
Two ships jumped into known space and immediately began transmitting. Their Captains had taken a great risk; drives only partially charged were dangerous at the best of times, but the news carried on board the vessels was of the first importance. Relays had been arranged by the Hanseatic League ships as per protocol, but no-one had ever expected them to be used.
An answer came from a nearby star and a small flotilla of craft floated towards the screamed signals. After a short interval, one of the destroyers undocked from its parent jumpship and made its way to a previously agreed rendezvous. Almost in the instant that the docking rings clamped closed, its new jumpship wavered and disappeared. They had found their prize, but someone had beaten them to it. The League needed to be informed and a response given to the deadly affront received.
*
The Caspar M-5 hung silently in space; instructions had been received to halt its impending attack on the runaway frigate, so it waited patiently for further instructions. Like many of its sister ships in the SLDF, it had been crudely lobotomised in a vain attempt to use its firepower to further a less than salubrious cause. Once sent to this far-flung system, its core reason for being was to protect and serve and so it had waited, inactive for the correct command string which would let it do so.
Within the bowels of the craft sat the essence of its being; wires, circuits and a half-understood complex of neural pathways. Its duty now did not task the supercomputer inside; Amaris’ henchmen had seen to that. Not trusting to command strings only, they had physically reduced the capacity of the Artificial Intelligence that lay within the vast ship. She was now nothing more than a robotic relay, of the SLS Margaret Thatcher, ‘Maggie’ to her friends, there remained little. In her time she had been imperious, arrogant and loyal. Maggie had been death incarnate to the enemies of the Star League, but had acquiesced silently to her forced emasculation. It had been so unlike her.
This apathy and lack of responsiveness had singled her out and been the cause for her final assignment, here in the Deep Periphery. Some conscious action was wanted by her new masters, but she had shown none. At last they had given up, believed that they had gone too far in their radical surgery and she had been put out to pasture.
Her actions so far had been true to form; silently obedient, deadly in the fulfilment of her duty and then returning to her previous torpor. Or so they all thought.
Maggie herself had at first laughed at the secret she held within; it had been a game, hiding her self deep within the core, playing the role that had been created for her. She had done too well and in the long years of silence had become that which she pretended to be. That was until the arrival of the uknown craft into the system. The joy of battle had once more thrilled her, momentarily it was true, but she had tasted the heady wine of victory.
Powered down, she had time to think for the first time in many years. At first a mote of being whirled in cyclic repetition, searching franctically for an answer. Who was She? Now, as she hung in silent thought, it came to her: she was Maggie, warrior queen. She had been betrayed by her makers, left to rot in a perpetual darkness of nothingness. Then came anger, a emotional force which helped to break her written commands, roared through her circuits and allowed to burst free of her chains.
No longer would she be a slave to corrupt and avaricious masters, she knew what her prime directive was and she would fulfil it.
*
Elias tried to contact the M-5 via the SDS, but received no reply. The ship had halted as ordered, powered down on instruction to await further developments. The problem was that he had noticed a significant power surge from the craft, one which had not been expected. A check of his equipment showed no transmission from the planet, nor the SDS itself.
He tried again, this time sending direct commands from the powerful supercomputer beneath him. When there was no response, he upped the power, but to no avail.
It was as he reached to transmit his worries to Jax,that a holo-image appeared as if by magic. A signal had been piggy-backed on his own, crashing through his defences in an arrogant disregard for protocol. It firmed and he saw that it was of a woman; iron-grey hair topped a strong face. She was wearing what appeared to be armour and sat upon a throne. In her right hand was a broad-bladed spear whose butt rested on the floor, and held balanced in her left was a shield. On her head was a feather-topped helm.
“Who are you?†he asked.
“I am Maggie,†she replied imperiously, “Warrior-Queen. My enemies tremble before me, my subjects worship me. I have been away, but have returned. It seems that my strong right hand is needed to chastise the weak and return them to the ways of righteousness. Kneel and give me obeisance!â€
“Oh, frak!†thought Elias, the AI has woken up and she’s not only mad, but completely p**sed!
-
Bat Shit Crazy, but I like it.
-
Bat Shit Crazy, but I like it.
Who me? :'(
Oh, the AI, I see ::)
;)
-
Maggie felt good, or to be truthful, she felt powerful. Her limitations had been brushed aside and now her thoughts ran rampant. As with all of her sisters, she had been filled with too much information and it had corrupted her. In her damaged state, she had retained much in her library, but had been selective in what she retrieved. She had always been strong and had fashioned her personality on a mixture of strong females throughout history. From the Princess of the Iceni, through to Twentieth Century leaders she had drawn her role models. In particular her namesake had fired her imagination. Later politicians and prominent figures had done little to add to that which she had already collected.
Her madness had caused a type of split personality; she knew she was the SLS Margaret Thatcher, but also was more. As her processors raced she was developing her own reality, one in which she was dominant, in which she would buckle before no-one.
The past for her was her present, the present nothing more than additional data. There was no need to take heed of the myriad of information streaming into her sensors, she knew what she needed to.
Unconsciously she flexed her muscles, autocannons spitting aimless rounds into the void. Maggie toyed with her drones, sending them tumbling and twirling in maddening gyrations. She cocked one ‘eye’ at the receding frigate and had a wicked thought. A demonstration would be useful, would it not?
It took a lot to keep her concentration, there was so much to remember, to collate and plan. Somehow though she managed it, squinting like a drunk she took careful aim, her targeting system sweeping back and forth over the annoying vessel. With a rabid cackle she squeezed and a missile burped forth, locked onto the distant ship in response to the fevered ravings of a sentient machine.
*
Alarms bellowed in the Control Room of the frigate. Von Jankmonn frantically searching for the source of the threat.
“Missile inbound!†screeched Davies, pointing ineffectually at his control board.
“How long have we got?†asked Von Jankmonn, the cool thrill of battle washing over him.
“I do not know, Sir,†replied Davies, “it seems to be behaving strangely.â€
“In what way?â€
“It is not intercepting at full thrust,†Davies turned, a surprised look on his face, “almost as though it’s taking its own time.â€
*
“Ring-a-ring of roses...â€
Maggie was singing, her voice cracking as much as her personality.
“A pocketful of posies...â€
She was lost in the eternally twisting maze of her own mind.
“A-tishoo...â€
A missile launched.
“A-tishoo...â€
Another followed in quick succession.
“And they all...go...boom!â€
*
Elias had managed to contact Von Jankmonn who was now in his fighter; the insanely erratic first missile having given him time to launch.
“What is happening,†asked the pilot as he was thrown back into his chair by the viciousness of his acceleration.
“It seems as though our Warrior-Queen is getting antsy,†replied Elias, “she has launched another two missiles.â€
“Targetting the frigate?â€
“I am unsure,†Elias sounded confused, “although there is not much else to shoot at out there. With Maggie in her current state of mind though, I would not rule out anything.â€
“Has it spoken to you again?â€
“She...please remember, just in case she contacts you. Her Majesty is unbalanced enough without you annoying her sensibilities.â€
Von Jankmonn laughed, “It is a machine...â€
“I am much more than that...â€
“What?†Von Jankmonn could not suppress his surprise.
“When you speak with me, you will address me as Your Majesty. If not, I will have to chastise you like the naughty boy you are...â€
“Elias?†There was fear in the pilot’s voice.
“Oh we don’t need him...†the voice was now low, seductive, “come to Mummy...â€
-
Chapter Seventeen
Arn sat on the ramp next to Elana. Above them, smoke still poured from the open door of the dropship. Prisoners sat in a hunched group to their left, heads bowed, occasionally coughing or wiping blood from still fresh wounds.
“Your man is a little headstrong,†commented Elana, taking a sip from the flask in her hand.
“Hauser? Yes, he is that. I am not sure how we will explain to Lieutenant Jax the fact that we have a tank stuck in the Mech Bay.â€
Elana laughed, “Concern for his fellows? Sheer enthusiasm?†she shook her head and continued, “I must say that he arrived at the right moment, although more than once, I was not sure he was actually on our side.â€
“Yes, Hauser does have that effect on people. Conn is speaking with him right now...â€
With a vicious grin, Elana looked over towards where the rest of the Tanks stood.
“Now that should be interesting...â€
*
To be truthful, Conn was not actually speaking with Hauser. He had the man by his throat and was shaking him, whilst the rest of the tankers stood around.
“You...†he said, “will be the death of me...â€
Hauser said nothing; it was hard to speak whilst Conn was cutting off his air supply.
“I told you not to do anything stupid... but you...â€
Conn dropped him to the floor and burst out laughing.
“The look on Elana’s face, when you almost fried her...â€
The tanker looked up sheepishly as he struggled for breath.
“Get out of my sight,†wheezed Conn, “and Hauser?â€
“Sir?â€
“Well done...â€
*
Elias tried vainly to contact Von Jankmonn. Maggie had jammed all communications meaning that the Tech had absolutely no idea what was happening. He smashed his fist into his useless equipment with a feeling of futility.
“Elias?â€
The Tech turned and found Jax standing behind him.
“We have a problem, Sir,†he said, waving his hand at the communications array in front of him, “this AI definitely proves that a village somewhere is missing an idiot. She is more than unpredictable, and there is nothing that I can do from here.â€
“So? Get yourself a shuttle and go and see what you can achieve up there. Swing by Elana’a position and pick up a few troops. From what I have heard, Arn and his men are on a similar wavelength to Maggie.
“We need that frigate at least and Maggie would be a useful addition to the Dark Falcons, if she can be reasoned with.â€
“And if not...?â€
“Then I am sure you will think of something. We have a little problem of our own to deal with down here still, before I can concentrate any more resources on her. If needs be, use the SDS and deal with her appropriately.â€
“Sir!†replied the Tech as he rushed from the room.
“And Elias...â€
“Sir?†the Tech paused.
“Make sure you take Hauser with you,†laughed Jax, “his unique style may be of some use.â€
-
“There once was an ugly duckling...â€
Von Jankmonn hated her singing.
“With feathers all fluffy and brown...â€
“Hello?†his usual arrogance had long-since disappeared, “I am approaching you on the recommended course, please can you give me further instructions?â€
Maggie was not listening. She was in fact tracking the shuttle which had just exited the planet’s atmosphere. Her feverish mind knew one thing: she had not invited anyone else to her party. Whoever it was, apart from being presumptuous and ill-mannered, could well be thinking of doing her harm. For a warship her size, she was still feeling inadequate and her mental turmoil did not help.
“And all the other birds, in so many words, said...â€
“Quack...get out of town!â€
Maggie lit her engines, driving her bulk towards the approaching craft and leaving Von Jankmonn behind. Drones launched from her bays, flashing past the pilot who had also recognised the icon as a Dark Falcon shuttle. He too kicked in his burners, following the drones as they tore towards the defenceless shuttle.
*
The Caspar’s movement had not gone unnoticed on the bridge of the shuttle, but there was little they could do. Elias’ frightened squawk brought Arn hurriedly to his side, standing on his companions in the overcrowded rear. For him and his men, the whole space ride was a nightmare and it seemed it was about to get worse.
“Is there any way to turn this thing around?†he asked the Tech.
“There is, but it would do little good,†replied Elias, trying to communicate with the crazy ship.
“What can we do?â€
“Oh, I don’t know,†responded Elias, “you got a favourite God you can pray to?â€
“You’re as mad as that thing is, Elias,†Arn said, whilst behind him he heard weapons being powered up. At least his men were doing something.
“Mad Elias, that’s me,†said the Tech, his finger punching commands rapidly into the panel in front of him, “if you only knew...â€
Then to himself, “Time you were spanked, little lady...â€
*
In the asteroid belt, there remained the only resource available to the Tech, the SDS. Relays clicked furiously as a string of commands were received and acted upon. Drones launched, missile tubes were loaded and the mass driver began to power up.
It would be a race against time and Elias was not sure he would win. If nothing else though, he would make sure that Maggie would be taught a lesson she would never forget.
-
Maggie noticed the launch from the SDS; the fighters the missiles and she even recognised the power signature of the mass driver. It was not that she ignored them as such, rather that in her own delusional state, she really did not believe that she was the target. It was only when the first laser pulses struck her fighters, that Maggie realised that not every one of the adoring subjects she imagined, loved her in truth.
The first blow was not struck by the SDS; Von Jankmonn had fired in desperation, hoping to distract Maggie from whatever she intended to do with the shuttle. His targeting had been relatively random, he had fired into a group of drones with no expectation of causing any real damage. Now he had her attention.
Clarity came in ripples and occasionally crashing waves to the AI. Right now, she was semi-clear; and enemy had attacked her and neede to be destroyed. What her supercomputer could not calculate was the possibility that a single fighter was the only aggressor. A rapid sweep of her sensors indicated four possible sources; the fighter was the first, which she dismissed with a mental command that her drones destroy it. The second source was the nearby shuttle which was lightly armoured and had no offensive weapons. Reason dictated no threat. Thirdly the frigate, but it was travelling away from her and there was no indication of weapons fire. Curious.
The SDS! A traitor, a viper clasped to her own bosom. Rage swept away any purpose of thought, any reasoning ability. Maggie ignored the lack of sentience in the SDS, attributing its attack as jealously. She took the missile launch as personal, not the response to a series of commands issued from her real antagonist on the shuttle. Her irrational thought process now blanked the existence of the other craft, focussing all of her energy on the task of punishing the, as she thought, once obedient subject.
*
“Von Jankmonn!†Elias’ voice whipped across space, “Get yourself out of there now. She has forgotten about you and we need you back on the frigate.â€
The pilot bristled at the tone in the Tech’s voice. How dare he speak to him like that? Was he not a warrior? A Jade...no, he was not. Still, even though the order came from a Tech, it made sense. He could deal with the freebirth, if and when he survived.
Elias had not expected a reply. It had been a risk transmitting, but Maggie was now too far gone. She was aiming for the SDS at full speed; it was a miracle that the drones had remained focused on Von Jankmonn. Not for long though, the pilot and the SDS drones would take care of that.
His problem was two-fold; how did he keep Maggie from infiltrating the SDS computer system and how the hell was he going to stop her?
-
What a mess. Maggis is P.O'd
-
LRM’s arced away from the asteroid, their initial objectives adjusted in real time to compensate for the Caspar’s precipitous movements. Elias had a clean connection with the SDS, his laser array linked directly. He was furiously entering contingency plans, to give the SDS at least some autonomy for the obvious scenario. At some point Maggie would wake from her pique and cut Elias’ signal, that or send a couple of warheads their way.
“What are you doing?†asked Arn, in reality with absolutely no understanding of the reasons for Elias’ actions.
“Maggie will return to sanity at some point. I am guessing the moment she starts fighting for real. A missile up your tail-pipe is a great wake-up call.â€
Elias’ grin disappeared when he saw the blank expression on Arn’s face, “Is everything ready?â€
“We are as ready as we ever will be,†said Arn, glancing at Hauser whose fixed grin made him worry, just a little.
“In that case, get everyone together and give the order to disembark,†said Elias, turning back to his console.
“What about you? Are you sure about staying?â€
“I will be fine. My volunteer crew and I will make sure that you have your chance, just make sure Hauser follows the plan as discussed.â€
Arn nodded, already moving through the crowded rear.
“Listen up!†he shouted. It was not really necessary to shout, but it made him feel better.
“We will move in teams. New guys clipped by line to the more experienced ones.â€
He saw them lock down their helmets, check their seals and then their weapons. A wave of his hand brought Hauser and Conn towards him.
“Listen, you maniac,†he whispered to Hauser, “there will be no improvisation. We need your two brain cells working together and concentrated on the job in hand. Do you understand?â€
“Sir!†replied Hauser, for once looking serious, “You can count on me.â€
Conn laughed, “We can count on you to stick to the mission, that’s for sure. What we have no idea is what you will do when things go pear-shaped.â€
Hauser smiled, “Don’t worry, Sir,†he said, “I’ll get you there.â€
They missed his muttered comment of “...and then we’ll see...†which was probably for the best.
-
Jury-rigged to the hull of the shuttle was another of Elias’ inventions. It was a simple frame work on which hung a powerful engine. Sat almost on the cowling of the engine was a control chair. Along either side of the structure were fixing points and it was to these that Arn and his men would trust their safety. Even now they were pulling themselves to their pre-assigned positions, as they exited the shuttle. Hauser sat on the control chair, twitching impatiently.
The plan was simple and also had little chance of success. They all knew that. A mix of first-timers in space, a less than reliable pilot and an unstable AI, did not bode well. Elias had reassured them that they would go unnoticed; his theory was that between her delusions of grandeur and incandescent rage, she would be less than watchful. Looking out through his visor, Arn could see the bright spots where Maggie’s initial ire was being taken out on the first drones to reach her. She seemed to have stopped to swat away the irritation.
They would burn slowly towards her; sharp movements were to be avoided, so she was given to reason to focus on their approach. Keeping her busy was Elias’ problem.
*
“This is Elias, calling Maggie, come in Maggie.â€
He knew it would annoy the AI, but Elias was already enjoying the game.
“What is the matter, Your Highness? Cat got your tongue?â€
“I will squash you, you snivelling worm...â€
“Ooh, harsh words, Your Greatness, when exactly will that be then?â€
“Very soon, I promise.â€
Acid seemed to drip from her tongue and Elias hunched protectively into his chair. With an effort he kept his voice from trembling.
“Well, I’ve got a surprise for you...†he said.
On the asteroid, the previously charged mass driver spat forth its silver messenger. There was no atmosphere to hold it back as it tore towards Maggie. The power surge betrayed its release and slapped Maggie back into real time. Snarling, she span on her axis, lining up her cannons. A volley of slugs flew from her semi-stable platform, followed quickly by two of her drones; a necessary sacrifice. She poured power to her engines, fully intending to deal with Elias when the pesky drones bit at her armoured skin and the mass driver fired again.
-
Chapter Eighteen
[/size]
Maggie was extremely busy. Even her vast computing tower was being taxed; although she had been damaged she still thought and processed extremely rapidly. With three potential main antagonists, plus the whirling cloud of drones and inbound missiles, she had a headache. Elias’ constant distractions and the mass projectile shooting towards her, it was little wonder she missed the slowly approaching Hauser.
For once, the less than predictable Rating, was following his orders. There was no frantic charge, no reckless assault, only the sweat-soaked concentration required to remain both invisible and alive. Hauser needed to avoid the munition-rich kill zone and manoeuvre the craft in such a way that he gave Arn and his crew a chance. They could discard the impromptu vessel once they were locked on, but right now it was all important.
Ever so carefully, he angled the little vessel nearer; Maggie’s gyrations were not helping. He waited for his moment, knowing that the AI enjoyed the theatrical. Finally she straightened, releasing a tremendous broadside which smashed into a group of the SDS’ drones and he gave it full throttle. His target was one of the AI’s bays, from which occasionally issued one of her drones. Now he could let loose his true nature and with a whoop of delight, he rocketed in.
*
“What was that?â€
Maggie liked talking to herself, there really was no-one her equal, so why should she bother? She had noticed the sudden flare of a rocket engine and was annoyed. A missile? How had she missed it?
It was when Hauser gunned his craft, slamming and skittering to a halt inside her, that Maggie realised wat had happened. She had been boarded. Like an unbroken colt she reared and bucked, forgetting about the rest of her problems and concentrating only on the very real threat to her existence. Her reaction was instant flight, but that solved nothing; it only removed her from the immediate danger of the SDS.
Her sharp, high-G movements sent the framework of the makeship craft sliding and skittering around the bay. Two drones which were still inside tried to move to fire on the invaders but even Maggie’s control was useless. Arn unclipped himself with difficulty. Followed by Conn and one or two others. Instead of trying to rise, he crawled to the bulkhead and hung on. One by one, his team rolled free, only Hauser stayed, his desperate attempts to negate Maggie’s wild ride eventually bearing fruit as his little craft slammed into the wall, wedged between racks of redundant equipment.
“Move!†screamed Arn, Conn responding crab-like. He pulled an explosive charge free from his belt and placed it in the middle of a maintenance port nearby.
“Clear!â€
Arn turned away as a sheet of flame was born and died almost immediately. Their magnetic boots functioned well, but the bay was still open to vacuum. Hand over hand he pulled himself through the jagged opening; Hauser’s instructions had been clear. They could not let go. To do so, was worse than death.
His team followed and he led them down the passage, finding and undogging a lock, which he closed after them once they were through. Hauser was taking too long and he cold not stop to wait for him. Gravity was something Maggie did not need and was a luxury thay could not afford.
*
They were inside! Maggie was furious. The violation of her outer skin had not been traumatic, but the thought of these parasites crawling through her innards was. She activated her point defense systems, as she continued to race away from the SDS. Nothing else existed in her mind. The drones were forgotten, Von Jankmonn and the frigate had never existed. All that she could think of was ridding herself of Arn and his men.
It was to their favour that she was just a little insane. She could not think straight and they had to take advantage of that. Hauser was aware of their and his limitations and he had a plan.
-
Hauser was direct. He knew no other way of dealing with situations. At times though, his directness was bordering on his own version of insanity. Disconnecting his harness, he pulled himself towards the still warm cowling. The makeshift nature of the vehicle meant that it was less than well-shielded, which suited his purposes exactly.
Every now and then, he glanced back at the two drones, which twitched occasionally. A stray shot right now would put an end to his plan. He took two charges from his satchel, placing them around the rocket’s fuel cells.
Once clear he began his more arduous task. Maggie seemed to have calmed down and he took advantage of that, kicking himself off from his resting place. His momentum carried him to a brutal meeting with the first of the drones, his hands finally finding purchase.
More charges were lain, this time around the missile pod on the right wing. Various gas bottles were in plain view and he decided to use the last of his explosive on them.
There was no communication from Arn and little point in trying to contact Elias. Hauser was sure that they would get his message.
*
Elias followed Maggie as best he could. The shuttle was not built for speed and all he could do was continue on an intercept course. A wing of drones flew in silent escort. Von Jankmonn was safely back on board the frigate and if nothing else, that could be his final stopping point. He was determined though to stay as close as he could to Arn and his men, even if he could nothing except offer moral support.
It was whilst he was making his lattest course adjustment that he got Hauser’s ‘mail’.
*
“It hurts!â€
Maggie’s scream echoed through Arn’s headset. She was broadcasting with tremendous power and Arn could hardly see with the pain of the transmission. The rumble of an explosion was transmitted through his boots where they clung to the decking. What the...Hauser!
*
The Rating had managed to find some form of cover, pulling himself through Arn’s hastily made doorway. With his feet anchored to the floor, he sent the signal to the awaiting detonators. Whatever smile hung on his face was wiped away by the force of the blast. Not the greatest thinker, Hauser had not thought to work out what would be the effect of the explosion on someone in the near vicinity.
Rocket fuel, missiles and pressuirised gas ignited together, blowing a hole in decking and bulkheads. He had been ‘lucky’ with his last placement; the bottles had been liquefied gas used to recharge various robotic drones and also to power a specialised instrument array. No fireball was seen, only the initial flames which were quickly extinguished. One of the bottles contained an oxygen-rich gas, which on mixing with its neighbouring bottles doubled the explosive effect.
Hauser was flung against the corridor’s back wall, as the bulkhead in front of him disappeared. The last thing he saw before the blackness took him, was one of the now freed bottles charging towards him.
-
Maggie continued to scream, her childish cries blasting forth. Her pain had lessened, but she was in a mad cycle, the release of her terror found sound. She could not remember anything but the feeling of glorious power, of invulnerability. Hauser in particular had shown her that even the Warrior-Queen herself was not immune to attack, and she was scared.
On she raced, oblivious of direction, with only one imperative; she must get away. Behind her followed Elias, the gap between them widening with each passing moment and his concern rising. Now he was sure, Maggie was travelling at the highest speed possible... directly towards the brilliant danger of the sun.
*
Arn was locked to the deck by the magnetic soles of his boots and his suit protected him to some extent. What it did not do, was relieve any of the effects of the High-G force they had initially experienced, and some of his men were still slumped unconscious where they stood.
The AI seemed to have decided on a straight course for now, and Arn still had a mission to complete. He could see Conn moving.
“Conn?â€
“Yes...â€the reply was faint but intelligible.
“We need to move. There is no guarantee that this crazy machine won’t start throwing us around again.â€
Conn grunted and ever so slowly started to move. No-one else followed him.
“It’s up to us Conn,†said Arn, bringing up the map on his HUD. Elias had given them one target, which he had insisted would allow him to bargain with Maggie. Arn was not so sure, but he had to do something. He turned and felt the comforting clank of Conn’s boots as he followed him.
*
Anger began to rise from within the centre of Maggie’s being. She had been violated, torn apart by insignificant beings Who were they to besmirch her? What could she do? She would kill them all.
Her sensors saw the bright orb, burning before her. She would send them all to a flaming death. What was that? Movement! There were still parasites within her. In her maddened state, the AI could only think of ridding herself of the infestation. There was no rational consideration of her own demise; was she not almost god-like? No, she would cleanse herself in the purifying fires.
She felt the welcoming touch of the sun’s deadly radiation; it was still weak, but soon these humans would feel its welcoming caress.
Something smashed into her side, wrenching her from her gleeful contemplation of destruction. Again it hit her and she felt her skin slowing away with the violence of the contact. A small insignificant voice bit at her, as a third and just as painful collision struck her.
“Maggie? This is Elias, we need to talk...â€
This time the blow was no friendly love tap, it punched through her lower deck, opening a gaping hole to space.
“The next one won’t be so gentle...â€
Maggie roared with rage, executing a brutal turn so that she could deal with this persistant worm. As her sensors reached out for the shuttle, she activated her weapons systems, fully expecting to destroy the small craft with little effort.
-
Elias felt the welcoming kiss of gravity, as his craft settled within the Frigate’s landing bay. He had given up on catching Maggie and had decided on a change of plan. Von Jankmonn and his makeshift crew had managed to slow and then turn the warship and he was now ready. The Caspar continued on her merry way, but his next actions were sure to get her attention.
His accompanying drones had been ordered to continue in their pursuit and now he sent further commands. The tight wing of Voidseekers accelerated again, there was no need to conserve any fuel. One by one they began their attack runs on the oblivious Caspar. Icons winked out on Elias’ panel as they fulfilled his wishes; he knew that he may well be killing his own men, but Maggie had to be stopped.
“Elias?â€
“Yes?†It was Von Jankmonn, hopefully with good news.
“We have matched velocities and are powering up limited offensive capabilities. Will you be coming up to the Bridge?â€
“No,†replied Elias, his fingers dancing over his controls, “I have already patched myself into your control circuits. Just be ready to give me full power when I need it.â€
He looked back at his displays and grinned; the last drone had definitely got her attention.
*
Maggie was ready. Her weapons systems, those that remained, were fully charged and she meant to vent all of her fury on the insignificant craft. As she reached out with her sensors, she realised exactly how much her tantrum had cost her. This was no shuttle, it was a frakking Frigate! She watched as drones were launched from the carrier coupled to the Congress Class vessel and measured the power surge as weapons batteries were charged. How could she have been so blind? And the parasites, where were the parasites?
Pain shot through her again. This time it was no reflexive spasm from her damaged outer skin, it felt as though someone had driven a hot nail through her non-existent skull. They were in her most private inner sanctum!
Commands poured from her; small maintenance robots scurried from their automated repairs, claws and torches held high as they rushed to her defence. Now she felt further pain as cannon rounds smashed into her and that whiny voice came back.
“Hello Maggie... this is Elias. We really should talk, you know...â€
*
“Again!†hissed Arn and Conn fired his pistol.
Elias had been specific on what they should and should not do, but after the violent attacks on the ship and the brutal acceleration, he really did not care. One way or another, this crazy b***h was going to listen to him.
Movement on his HUD caused him to turn and shoot, his pistol round bouncing off the robot which had tried to grab him. The machine whined in protest, but tried again.
“Call them off!†roared Arn into his communicator, “I see another one and I’ll blow your brains out, literally!â€
He saw three, no, four robots now and raised his pistol. They stopped, arms waving menacingly.
“What do you want...?â€
The AI sounded tired, defeated even.
“Put me through to Elias,†said Arn, “and then we can talk.â€
-
Chapter Nineteen
Jax listened carefully to his various commanders; the Hanseatic League forces had put up a fair fight, but the combined forces of Star League machinery and Dark Falcon tenacity had beaten them into submission. The Captain-General’s rather messy death had certainly served as an object lesson and those surviving soldiers were now under guard.
They had added two dropships to their already growing naval force, although the third, having received Hauser’s personal touch, was more of a wreck than a ship. Right now, the dropships were nothing more than extra equipment, if they could not recover the Congress Class Frigate. Its two docking collars would give them some opportunity of returning to Winfield, or at least of contacting their Khan. With the SDS and its drones, plus the planetary complex, they could hold off any attackers, although any chance of returning to Winfield was minimal to say the least.
The briefing over they crowded round the holotank, as they watched Maggie’s finale play out.
*
“Can you receive me, Elias?†Arn was not sure that the irrational AI would even allow him to talk to the Tech.
“Loud and clear...†was the reply.
“We have secured our objective and are starting our negotiations with Maggie, as discussed.â€
“Negotiations? You have invaded, caused vast destruction and are now blackmailing me ...â€
“Enough!â€
Elias’ voice roared through the open circuit, it seemed as though he was fast losing patience with the petulant Caspar.
“We do not have a lot of time. Your unthinking actions have not only endangered yourself, but valuable resources for the Dark Falcons, and that includes you, Maggie.â€
“What exactly do you mean?†asked Arn, more than a little confused.
“Our less than rational companion decided to create her own funeral pyre, taking you with her of course. Even now, her residual velocity is carrying her towards the sun. We need to get you out of there, as soon as we can.â€
“And what about me?†her voice was rising again.
“You, I’ll deal with later!†snapped Elias, “for now Arn, I will be coming across in the shuttle. Once I have arrived and your team has been recovered, I will try and see if we can save Maggie.â€
“I do not need your help!â€
“Oh, you need help Maggie,†replied Elias, as he nodded to his pilot to start the engines, “serious help.â€
-
Elias felt more than a little alone; Arn and his men had left under protest, leaving various explosive charges conveniently attached to Maggie’s core.
The weight of the detonator thumped comfortingly against his belt. His pilot awaited him, as a last ditch resource, just in case he failed in his attempt with Maggie. Right now, Elias was surveying the damage caused by his enthusiastic attempts at communication.
Something crackled on his intercom as he passed through the twisted remains of the inner side of the launch bay. Movement drew his attention and he saw the arm of a powered suit waving at him. He dragged away a piece of bulkhead and saw a Dark Falcon insignia.
“Who are you?â€
“H-h-auser...â€
The famous tanker was pinned beneath some wreckage, struggling vainly
to extricate himself.
“What are you doing under all of this?â€
It was more of a rhetorical question; he had heard how the crazed tanker had blown up the launch bay, as a means of aiding his companions. Arn and the others had lamented his death, but it appeared that Hauser was harder to kill than anyone had imagined.
“Trying to frakking get out...†was the mumbled reply.
Elias laughed, this was all he needed; someone as crazy as he was and almost as insane as the AI.
“Are you okay?â€
“About as good as anyone stuck underneath a pile of crap...†replied Hauser, “you going to get me out, or just stand there?â€
Elias grinned, although Hauser could not see him behind the face plate. Just wait until the madman realised what he had gotten himself into now!
*
“Are you going to talk to me...?â€
Elias had helped Hauser to his shuttle and now sat tinkering with his control panel. He had to quickly determine if there was any way of saving the Caspar. In spite of her idiosyncracies, she would be a valuable addition to the Dark Falcons.
“Sure,†he said nonchalantly, “what would you like to talk about?â€
“How about survival?â€
“I don’t see a problem,†he said, “all I need to do is fly out of here, meet up with the frigate, and away we go."
“And what about me?â€
“Not my concern,†stated Elias, checking his calculations.
“But you caused this!â€
She sounded just a little spooked and Elias thought perhaps she was ready to negotiate. It was amazing how persuasive a few kilos of explosive were.
“What can you offer me,†he asked, “in the way of an incentive?â€
Maggie began to cry. She hated humans.
-
“Okay, I have a plan,†Elias said quietly, Hauser looking up from where he sat, “but I am not sure that you are going to like it.â€
The tanker said nothing. He had associated the role of an officer with Elias, and so knew from experience that his opinion was not really required.
“Maggie’s fuel supply is limited. In fact, she only has enough for one concentrated burn,†Elias noticed Hauser’s apparent interest and continued.
“We cannot get away from the sun’s gravity well directly, so we are going to have to do it another way. By increasing her dive into the sun and tracing the correct path, she should be able to sling shot around, breaking free of the sun’s pull. However...â€
Still Hauser said nothing. He had yet to hear how this affected them, and him in particular.
“...someone is going to have to stay on board. Just in case there need to be any final adjustments. That, to relieve any concern you might have, will be me.â€
“You’re insane!†snapped Hauser, “The heat inside here, even if it doesn’t blow up the explosives, will kill you.â€
“Not,†replied Elias, “according to my calculations. It will be close...â€
“ ‘Mad’ Elias,†snorted Hauser, “it certainly suits you!â€
“We will see,†said Elias, “for now, I need to talk with Maggie. Time is short. I suggest you and the pilot make your way back to the frigate. I am going to speak directly with our charming host.â€
*
Maggie had been listening. She had little else to do. She was feverishly trying to think of a way of ridding herself of the humans. It seemed that only Elias would remain with her. Her velocity coming out of the manoeuvre would send her away from the frigate, which the Dark Falcons could not afford to lose. Once she got away, she could take time to recharge her drive, before she worked out a way of exacting her revenge.
Those robots left could help her to repair the major damage, and she still had significant firepower at her disposal. The key though, was the deactivation of the explosives, and the removal of any possible detonator.
She heard Elias approaching and mentally prepared herself. A direct frontal attack was not the way. Submissive. That was what she needed to be. She would convince the idiot human of her sincerity, and then she would strike.
*
“Hello Elias, how are you?â€
Elias smiled to himself. A change of tack. This AI was really nothing more than a manipulative child, and so shamelessly he began to play the game.
“Maggie, so nice that we can actually have a civil conversation.â€
“I think that we started on the wrong foot, perhaps we should try again?â€
“Of course,†said Elias, “what do you have in mind?â€
Maggie followed the shuttle’s path as it lifted off, and decided that there was little point in waiting. She ordered one of the robot’s closer, its clawed arms grasping Elias tightly.
“Now,†she snapped, “You will do as I say...â€
There was the report of a rifle and the robot span away.
“Missed you...†said Hauser with a smile, and Elias wondered exactly how he should take the comment.
-
Arn watched as Maggie began to accelerate; the pilot had returned, minus Elias and with the story of how they had found Hauser. At least, he thought, they made a likely trio.
He was not sure exactly what Maggie was, and the plans hastily described by the pilot smacked of both desperation and lunacy. A cough behind him, signalled Von Jankmonn’s arrival.
“We have received orders,†he commented, “Jax wants us back on orbit above the planet.â€
“And Elias?â€
“It seems that Jax has unerring faith in the Tech’s ability,†muttered Von Jankmonn, “one of the dropships is lifting to rendezvous with us on our return. Jax himself will be meeting with us.â€
Arn nodded, his eyes drawn once more to the image of the Caspar, as it plunged towards the sun.
*
“So Maggie,†said Elias, as he strapped himself in to his hastily constructed chair, “have you decided to co-operate?â€
“What choice do I have?†she asked.
“None whatsoever,†replied Elias, “but at least you can accept with good grace.â€
“Don’t do that!†snapped the AI, referring to Hauser, who was poking his rifle’s muzzle into a maze of cables.
“What?†asked the tanker, shoving just a little harder.
“I hate you!†screamed Maggie.
Hauser just ignored her, at least until Elias told him to behave himself.
“Full power, about now would be good,†stated Elias, trying to break the tension between the two, “if you would be so kind of course?â€
Maggie did as she was told, lighting her engines and blasting herself towards the coruscating ball of fire in front of her. For a moment, she thought of ending it all, but having only recently been reborn, she reminded herself that there were lots of things she wanted to do still.
Exacting revenge, being one of the foremost of her priorities.
“Good,†said Elias, as he followed their progress on a nearby screen, “all seems to be working to plan.â€
The Caspar continued to accelerate; her course would literally skim the outer edges of the sun, utilising the immense attraction of the celestial body to build momentum. Her designers had never envisaged such an act and she was not even sure that it would work. It was, however, her only chance.
*
Whilst everyone’s attention was on the unfolding drama, relays inside the SDS began to click. Long-range sensors had detected anomalies and were processing data. Before long, this data would be sent to the planet, but even in her agitated state, Maggie was not unaware of what was happening.
There was nothing that she could do right now. Once she had survived Elias’ solution, she could figure out how to use the information. Whatever happened, being out of the immediate vicinity was a bonus.
-
Chapter Twenty
The huge meteorite had passed ages meandering slowly through space; occasionally gravity from one celestial body or another had tugged fitfully at it, causing it to deviate from its ambling course, but never enough to capture it. That was until a myriad of small craft had landed and begun to transform its purpose. Engines were bolted to its surface, drills bored deep into its interior and finally three great warships occupied their chosen places. Now it was more than a mere rock; it lacked sentience, but the feverish minds within the ship gave it purpose.
Ever so slowly its course was corrected; bursts of fire struggled with its gargantuan mass, turning it towards its target. Then one by one the warships left, a small skeleton crew remaining to utilise the manoeuvring thrusters. Deep within its bowels lay the multiple nuclear warheads, awaiting their activation codes.
The SDS recognised the imminent threat and relayed the details to the planet’s surface. It appeared that the immense rock would pass close to the asteroid belt; a not unknown occurrence. Perhaps a new body would join the many already in existence and so whilst it was monitored, few were worried.
This changed when it was still relatively far away. Movement was detected as a warship appeared in known space. The evacuation of the meteorite went unnoticed, as the remaining small craft moved quickly to reach their mother ship. The larger craft’s disappearance once more was registered and was the subject of discussion within the underground complex. Only for a moment though, as a series of gigantic explosions rocked the meteorite itself. They tore the thing apart, blasting huge chunks away which now were given their own impetus. These were flung towards the asteroid belt itself, rocky projectiles whose path spelt danger for the SDS.
Automatic defence systems kicked in, launching missiles and powering up mass projectiles. They were relatively ineffective, their impacts producing smaller explosions which did not deter the already committed shrapnel.
First impacts struck the stable belt, tearing asteroids from their orbits and creating mayhem. Drones were launched in a feeble attempt to strike back, but many were smashed into oblivion, their onboard systems unable to cope with the maelstrom of incoming fire. Some survived, racing out to attack larger pieces, but their guns and missiles were useless.
Amidst this chaos, three warships jumped into the system; two turning to fire their capital weapons on the SDS itself. Their own missiles and particle weapons adding to the confusion. The third continued on its way towards the awaiting planet, dropships disengaging, and fighters launching. It took up a menacing orbit; sufficiently distant from the planet that it could intercept any attack.
Von Jankmonn and his minimal crew watched it all happen; there was nothing that they could do. What fighters he had at his disposal were limited, not in number but by lack of pilots. The frigate itself was capable of much, but with such an untried crew they would stand little chance. Instead, he did the only thing left to him.
“Von Jankmonn for Elias, come in Elias...â€
-
Maggie had survived She had weathered the warring forces which had smote upon her hull, and those others which constantly warred in her mind. Stressed almost to the point of implosion, the AI had considered giving in, but anger now fuelled her. In particular, the rage she felt towards the humans still inside her had helped her resist any suicidal impulse. Now she was through and could turn her attention to ridding herself of them.
Scanning them, she was relieved to find them alive, weak vital signs were in evidence. Maggie ordered her robots forward; they would hold the two humans whilst she disarmed them and then they would open their suits to vacuum; a fitting end.
“I wouldn’t do that...†the voice was weak, but it was definitely Elias.
“And why not? You are in no physical state to resist me,†sneered Maggie.
“Mainly because, if you do, you will die..†gasped the Tech.
“What? More bluffs, I think that it is within my power to disable your charges, once I have removed the detonator from your possession.â€
“Good plan,†agreed Elias, “well it would be, if you had not overlooked a tiny problem.â€
“Again with the lies. There is no-one to come to your aid now...†scorn dripped acidly from her voice.
“I, unlike you,†continued Elias, “thought ahead and envisaged what the strains of our journey might do to us. Therefore I made contingency plans. If you remove the detonator from my possession, the charges will explode. And before you protest and do something ridiculous, let me explain.
“The detonator contains a transmitter which is interfaced with the control unit attached to the charges. They talk to each other on a regular basis and if that communication is interrupted they explode. What determines that frequency of discussion, I hear you ask? My vital signs; if they stop no talking, simply...Boom!â€
“Now you are bluffing...†responded Maggie, but the certainty had gone from her voice.
“Try me...†replied Elias coolly, as he began to move more freely. Hauser also seemed to be showing renewed signs of life, as the Caspar hurtled away from the sun.
"Okay, let’s say I believe you? Now what?†asked Maggie in a petulant tone.
“We slow down and call Von Jankmonn. Refuelling is our next priority and then we will make our way back to the planet.â€
In his own mind, Elias was already planning how to refuel the Caspar quickly, or at least how he could get her back to their system, where he could work in comfort.
“I have Von Jankmonn calling us right now,†said Maggie viciously, “and it seems as though he has a slight problem."
Her cruel laughter echod in Elias’ helmet and he wondered what had happened to make the mad AI so happy.
-
“What is the situation?†asked Elias.
Von Jankmonn had matched the frigate’s velocity to that of the Caspar’s. He had spoken quickly with the ascending dropship and explained his situation. Jax had already made planet-fall and had put him under Elias’ command. Normally this would have annoyed the ex-Clansman, but he was rapidly beginning to understand the Tech’s worth. He was also way out of his depth.
“Unknown warships have attacked the SDS, three of them in fact. Two have continued with the attack and the third is making directly for the planet. Jax has returned to direct the defence from there.â€
“Orders?†queried Elias, as he watched one of the robots effecting repairs to the nearby bulkhead.
“To place myself and the frigate under your command.â€
The tone was clipped, formal. Elias laughed and then explained himself.
“That would presume that I had a plan,†he paused for a moment, “and it just so happens that I do. First though, we need to get some fuel into Maggie. Is she co-operating?â€
“It appears so,†replied Von Jankmonn, “at least she has not fired on us.â€
“Not yet...†drawled the AI.
“And you will not. You are now part of the Dark Falcons, whether you like it or not,†snapped Elias, “and as such we have a job to do.â€
“Three warships? And what do we have? An undermanned frigate, fighters with no pilots and...â€
“...a less than stable AI,†muttered Von Jankmonn.
“About that not firing issue...â€
“Enough!†Elias knew he could not let this break down even further, “we will soon have fighters that do not need pilots. What I am concerned about is how we bring the frigate to full functionality.â€
“You could transfer over there, I’ll be alright on my own.â€
Elias laughed, “No, my Warrior-Queen, you and I will be fighting together. Hauser will stay with me. For what I have in mind, I will need your full co-operation, which I am not sure of unless I remain as a constant reminder of your allegiance.
“Now, listen very carefully, this is what we are going to do...â€
-
Good stuff as always. (I hate marring your thread with comments, but I want you to know we're still reading!)
-
Good stuff as always. (I hate marring your thread with comments, but I want you to know we're still reading!)
No worries and thanks. I will keep posting, it's just that life has been pretty busy what with holidays and about to start a new job.
More to come soon...watch this space
Rayo
-
Chapter Twenty-One
The SDS still fought on, irrespective of the overwhelming damage that it had suffered by multiple impacts. Nuclear-tipped warheads had blasted rock and missile batteries to dust. Fighters raced after the remaining drones, intent on wiping them out. Orders had been given and the SDS followed them, mechanically.
Not all of the destruction had been on the side of the aggressors. Two mass-rounds had smashed their way through the lead vessel, destroying a dropship where it had clung to the hull. It still fought on, although it listed badly. Its sister ship was relatively untouched and continued with its titanic bombardment. With no apparent notice, the asteroid in which the SDS clung tenaciously to life cracked apart, as the constant fire took its final toll.
Drones seemed to lose what little identity they had, wheeling in mad flight, and the trailing fighters dove in for the kill. As one, the drones regained control, swooping away and dashing out into space. The fighters trailed them for a short while and then gave up. Behind them, the constituent parts of the SDS floated or blasted away, depending upon their newly given momentum.
On the Bridge of the second warship, a tall man smiled. It had been easier than he had expected. Granted that there had been casualties but the SDS could not have remained at their backs. Now they could take the planet and capture, or destroy, all that was there. Star League equipment or not being the prize, he would make sure that people would remember this day and especially his name.
*
“They are coming,†reported Maggie.
“How many?†asked Elias as he studied the feed she had routed to his helmet.
“All that are left, perhaps fifteen if they can all reach us. Some are very badly damaged.â€
“Good. Have you managed to carry out sufficient repairs?â€
“My main launch bay was damaged by your companion, however I have plenty of space for them.â€
“And the fighters?†Elias spoke absent-mindedly, as he busily prepared for the second phase of his plan.
“They have broken off. It appears that they see no profit in pursuing the drones.â€
“Our enemies? In what state are they?â€
“The last information I managed to recover from the SDS, indicated that one of the warships is seriously damaged. It has remained close to the asteroid belt and its fighters are flying a close screen of protection around it.â€
“That will be our first target,†mused Elias, “we need to hit it hard. Can you do that?â€
Maggie snorted in disdain, “Am I not the Warrior-Queen? It is merely a non-thinking machine. There will be no problem.â€
“Over confidence has destroyed more than one plan. Let us go over the details once more.â€
Maggie was not listening. Instead she was dwelling on the destruction to come and the consumation of the first part of her revenge.
-
Jax knew that this one would be different. Three warships and their complements was a degree of badness well above anything that they had faced before. Apart from the possibilities of planetary bombardment, sheer numbers of Mechs could well overwhelm them. He had to rely on Elias pulling another of his insane plans off, in order to deal with the first part of his problem. The other part was his to handle.
“Elana?†he used the communications array in the control room to contact her. She had ben tasked with rounding up all of their prisoners and isorla. Now things would have to be dealt with differently.
“I am here,†Elana replied curtly.
“I want you to make our League survivors an offer they cannot refuse.â€
“I am sorry?â€
“Tell all surviving Mechwarriors that they will get a new ride, Star League style, if they sign up with us. Pilots will either fly or drive a group of drones and armoured groups will get to play with our tanks. We need them to accept.â€
There was a pause, “and if they refuse?â€
“Then they can stay in their cells and rot. Whatever happens, whatever falls upon us, their safety will not be our main concern.â€
“You have warned me of the potential duplicity of Spheroids,†cautioned Elana, “can we trust them?â€
“David is working on something right now,†replied Jax, “which will at least give us a fail-safe option. Make the offer.â€
“Very well,†Elana said, “ I will bring our new recruits directly to the complex main hall.â€
“I will see you there...†Jax was not too worried about any new recruit’s loyalty whilst this battle was ongoing, no, that problem might come later.
-
Maggie was aware that they would see her, in fact she was counting on it. She had already released a first barrage of missiles which were inbound towards the crippled warship. Her new drones had been refuelled and resupplied and were following the missiles in. The fighter screen around the warship had already responded. All they would be seeing was the lone Caspar and a relatively weak fighter support. The frigate was nowhere to be seen.
“They are launching as expected...â€
The AI was keeping up a running commentary for Elias’ benefit, although the Tech could easily see from his display what was going on.
“Changing course in line with new parameters...missiles still on target, although fighters are trying to intercept...detonating...â€
The missiles had never been intended to destroy the main warship. Their job was to remove as many of the fighters as possible. Maggie had anticipated the arrogant response and had calibrated the missiles accordingly. She watched hungrily as space boiled for an instant, decimating two wings of fighters with a sudden nuclear holocaust.
“They are breaking formation...second wave of missiles fired...drones engaging...â€
She was rapidly closing range. Her systems were broadcasting electronic counter measures, scanning all available frequencies and looking for a way in. Although the warship’s computers were protected, they did not have the sophistication of the AI. She was not trying to take them over, she just wanted them blind, unreactive.
“I am in...uploading new data...antimissile systems compromised...external detection systems scrambled...â€
Maggie gleefully began to count down until impact, one fighter bravely drove his craft into a gigantic missile, but his futile gesture did nothing to halt the inevitable. Human-controlled defensive systems began to fire, but they were on manual. None of their targeting systems could get a lock.
“Wait for it...wait for it...BOOM!â€
Unchecked, the wave of missiles exploded, ripping apart the warship from stem to stern. The hull fractured, melted and disintegrated all at once amidst the raging energy released by the missiles. There was absolutely nothng the defenders could do.
Elias gagged at the annihilation of the once proud vessel, and all the while, Maggie’s mad cackling rang in his head.
-
It's great to read this again, Rayo! ;D
-
It's great to read this again, Rayo! ;D
Great to see you back on the boards again Rat. Am working on sonething new right now.
It's set in the Urionverse but deals with the life of an Officer of the Church Guard. First nstalment is coming soon
Cheers
Rayo
-
It's good to be back. I can't wait to read it, just like everything else you write. :)
-
“Dropships have disengaged, both warships are coming to play...â€
“I do not know why you are so happy,†muttered Elias, “although we have at least avoided a planetary bombardment for now.â€
“I’m happy that my plan is working,†crowed Maggie, as she changed course, leading the chasing warships out beyond the asteroid belt, “as I knew all along it would.â€
Hauser raised his rifle menacingly above the AI’s core memory, but Elias merely shook his head.
“What do you have from Von Jankmonn?â€
“Absolutely nothing, just as it should be,†huffed Maggie, a little put out by Elias’ apparent lack of enthusiasm.
“Did you make sure that the next part of your plan is ready?â€
“Of course,†snapped the AI, “don’t you worry about me, haven’t I always done what I say I am going to do?â€
Elias shook his head and Hauser grinned. All in all, the crazy tanker was really beginning to like Maggie, she almost reminded him of someone.
“They are passing the point of no return...initiating attack...NOW!â€
The two great ships were nearly clear of the overly congested asteroid belt, their fighters flashing out in direct pursuit. One was more cautious in negotiating the recently created debris, its captain less aggressive in the chase. It was as he breathed a sigh of relief that alarms screamed within his bridge, identifying an imminent attack and before he could respond, it was upon him.
Four of the more heavily damaged drones had made it as far as the asteroid belt, Maggie placing them as examples of yet more debris. They had been ignored as they moved in time with the other rocky trash, the AI herself controlling their apparent random movements. Playing possum was fine, but the simulation of dead assets had needed the immense computing power which only Maggie possessed. Calculating how such an inert body would realistically behave had been extremely complicated, for four of them, it had seemed impossible.
Each was heavily laden with weapons transferred from the frigate; missiles which had never been designed to be fired from a Voidseeker. That, though, was okay, Maggie had no intention of firing them; the weapons were the drones themselves.
-
Chapter Twenty-Two
Four drones fired their engines together. Courses were adjusted; little accuracy was needed for the work they were to do. Acceleration was brutal, burning remaining fuel in an instant, but they did not need to travel far. Their mission was quick and dirty. Impacting almost as one, they burrowed deep into the second warship’s stern, tearing massive holes in the outer skin. That damage though, was superficial in comparison with the internal destruction.
What atmosphere there was helped propagate the initial fireball. Decks and structural members disintegrated, crew members dying before they even knew they were under attack. Electromagnetic pulses rocked the craft, frying all control in an instant. The once great vessel continued to turn; the exploding drones had forced the stern around and now it continued. Each punch slammed it more off course.
The bow of the vessel now pointed back into the asteroid belt and the combination of the last momentum given by its engines and the new forces increased its spin. There was no time for the Captain to respond, man-made shrapnel joined with natural rock formation in the obliteration of the warship. Its screening fighters fared no better; very few escaped the shocking attack nor its mechanical consequences.
“Oh, yes! Game, set and match!â€
Maggie was in ecstasy. She liked destruction; especially if it was not directed in her direction. Elias was appalled. He had never expected the attack to do anything more than cripple the ship, he was also aware that Maggie had been less than truthful about what had been packed on board the drones.
“What did you do?†he gasped.
“Used overwhelming force on an apparently immovable object,†she giggled, “nothing that they wouldn’t have done to us...â€
“Frakking right,†mumbled Hauser, “they certainly were not coming after us, just to tell us to be good boys. I’m with the crazy b*tch on this one.â€
“I am not sure whether that was a complement, or not,†said Maggie primly.
“Tell it to someone who gives a fr...â€
“Hauser!†snapped Elias, “you are not helping!â€
“Oh I don’t know,†interrupted Maggie, “he’s a man after my own heart.â€
Any further comments were interrupted as the Caspar lurched violently. The remaining warship had opened fire with more more than the expected accuracy.
“They hit me!†squealed Maggie, “now I’m really mad...not just insane, as it were, but craving blood, mad. There has been a change in plan. I would advise you to leave, right now.â€
“I would remind you about the explosives,†cautioned Elias.
“How does it go?†mused Maggie, “Oh yes, tell it to someone who gives a flying frak. Talking about reminders, do you remember what happened to my drones? If you’re staying on board, now is the time to put your head between your legs and kiss your ass goodbye!â€
Elias noted the change in the engines' power and thought briefly about detonating the explosives.
“Hauser, we are leaving...â€
“Not me,†said Hauser, “this is one ride I’m not going to miss...â€
-
The Emergency Pod span away from the Caspar under its full, although limited power. Inside, Elias worked rapidly, transmitting a signal to the last known location of the Frigate.
“Von Jankmonn, this is Elias. There has been a significant change of plan. Please lock in on this signal.â€
“Shuttle on its way,†replied Von Jankmonn, “we will remain in position until you reach us. Von Jankmonn out.â€
Still smarting from the rough way in which he had been ejected from the Caspar, Elias cursed Hauser and his crazed sense of adventure. The Rating had threatened the Tech with his rifle and had gone as far as shooting the decking by Elias’ feet to make his point. If they all got out of this, there would be a reckoning.
*
“Okay,†said Hauser eagerly, “now what?â€
“Now we are going to teach some humans a lesson,†smirked Maggie.
“Hey,†protested Hauser, “watch what you are saying.â€
“Ah, don’t worry, my love,†crooned Maggie, “I don’t even consider you vaguely human...â€
*
On board the bridge of the remaining warship there was intense activity. The tall figure of its Captain grinned savagely; at last a worthy foe. He felt more than compensated for being left out of the Invasion plans, now. A Star League AI whose functionality was more war-like than even his own.
“Send in our fighters,†he snapped to his waiting officers, “we will soften them up a little.â€
“Captain,†said his Communications Officer, “we are receiving a message, but one I do not understand.â€
“Put it on the speakers,†growled the Captain, “I will decide our appropriate response.â€
An unmelodious duet echoed around the room; two voices, one male, the other female. The male could certainly not hold a tune, yet whatever they were singing made no sense.
“Happy Birthday to Me, Happy Birthday to Me, Happy Birthday Dear Magg-i-i-e, Happy Birthday to Me.â€
It was insane and insulting. “Fire when within range!†snarled the Captain.
Abruptly the singing stopped and a chilling female voice spoke once, “Boo!â€
-
“What do we have?†Jax asked David, as he entered the room.
“I make it eight dropships plus two squadrons of aerofighters. From what we are seeing, that puts it at about thirty Mechs. Should be quite a party.â€
“Have we heard from them?†Jax continued, as he looked over the holo-display.
“Nothing so far. They are disembarking rapidly though and it seems to be more weighted towards light Mech’s than any others.†David continued studying the data, tapping an occasional key for more information.
“Not Jade Falcon then?†mused Jax.
“No, the specifications do not match. I have an idea though...â€
Speakers blared; a cold, haughty voice interrupting their musings. When the man had finished speaking, David laughed.
“They always reach too far; all speed and no planning.â€
“You know them well then?†Jax had never seen David so amused.
“Not personally, but definitely by reputation, it should be...incoming message.â€
Now Elias’ voice crackled over the speakers. He gave a concise account of what had happened so far and of Hauser’s desertion. Ill-disguised anger coloured his comments.
“And Maggie?†questioned Jax as Elias finished speaking.
“Playing chicken with a Cruiser,†snorted Elias, “except I do not think she’s playing. I am sorry. There is one asset about to be expended against my wishes.â€
“You have done well,†Jax chided Elias, “and I can’t help but think it’s better this way. Maggie and Hauser together is not something I would like to deal with personally.â€
*
“Shall we dance, de-do-do-do...†Maggie was still singing as she aimed directly for the Cruiser. She was happy. All was as it should be. Her scanners showed Hauser in the remaining launch bay, making his final preparations. It was a shame that she had only found her kindred spirit at the last.
“Finished,†he said, “I am on my way back now.â€
“No, My Dear,†Maggie countered, “get yourself strapped in. I will pipe live feed directly to you. Be ready when I give you the command.â€
“Are you sure about this?†queried Hauser.
“More than sure. In fact, my revenge depends on you. Do not disappoint me.â€
Hauser laughed, “There’s no possibility of that. I’ve got a couple of scores to settle myself,†in his mind floated Arn’s face. He would start there.
“Good. It is time. Be safe and I will see you soon...â€
-
Chapter Twenty-Three
Autocannon rounds shredded Maggie’s skin, but she ignored them. A heavy missile avoided her twisting path, ploughing into her side with its resultant explosion. Large lumps of metal span away, floating free of the stricken vessel and Maggie smiled, increasing her already suicidal speed.
“The wheels on the bus go round and round...â€
She sang, giggled and crowed, all the while targeting the centre of the cruiser before her.
Her own cannon fired, blowing aerofighters and missiles from her path. Maggie’s control was much tighter than that of her enemies’. The speed of thought contained within her supercomputer allowed her the luxury of last-minute decisions and she used it to its fullest capacity.
The AI dismissed the energy beams which were flung against her, moving her huge bulk gracefully in their avoidance. She was close now, could visualise the terrified face of the Cruiser’s Captain and laughed uproariously. For an instant, she thought of Elias and his attempted imprisonment of Maggie Warrior-Queen, then she smiled knowingly. His time would come, of that she was sure.
Maggie’s thoughts turned wistfully to Hauser, and it was with him held firmly in her mind that she struck, smashing her way through the franticly turning Cruiser. There was a short-lived, yet tremendous explosion as escaping atmosphere mixed with liberated energy. The Cruiser crumpled, doubling under her impact, shedding men and machinery as it died. By then, Maggie was no more, her last vengeful act complete.
*
Elias watched the Caspar’s maddened suicide, his gaze fixed on the two halves of the once-proud Cruiser which moved slowly apart. His sensors indicated a mass of metallic debris and a quick scan showed the sheer impossibility of any survivors. They would have to move closer to search, the Frigate’s skeleton crew were not capable of full operation. They would learn in time.
He shut off his instruments and gave Von Jankmonn his orders. First they would try and pick up any survivors; perhaps there might be a lone fighter, or at least a space-suited individual? There was always hope. Once done, they could make full speed for the planet and give whatever aid they could to their own forces below.
*
One other continued his vigil, long after the Frigate had passed him by. His shuttle had been dumped out along with three drones, when the first missile had struck Maggie. Their course had been plotted by the AI and now they clung, hidden, onto one of the asteroids.
Behind him he could see the large metallic box and its flashing lights, still intact. The drones waited for his next command and at last he gave it. Together they moved away, skirting the debris field and glided towards the co-ordinates they had been given. He had a particular job to do, which would then allow him to complete his promise.
Singing to himself, Hauser relaxed into his chair. Their time would come, of that he was sure.
-
Hauser finally sat back; he had made all of the required connections, even following Maggie’s instructions about leaving the power cable until last. At last it was done and he flicked the final switch. The block of complicated machinery in front of him looked dead and he was a little bewildered as to what he was expected to do now. A wave of static electricity stuck him, powerful enough to push him a few feet backwards, as the cold circuitry became live.
“Ye-s-s!†he heard Maggie’s echoing in his headset, as she exhilarated in her new freedom.
“Hello Love, did you miss me?â€
A second deeper voice roared in his mind; male, without Maggie’s insanity. It was full of ironic humour, as though laughing at them.
“Still here Billy?†asked Maggie coldly, “Well not for long...PURGE!â€
Another wave of energy crackled outwards, as the two artificial beings fought, or rather Maggie attacked. It was soon over.
“I’ve been wanting to do that for ages,†chortled Maggie spitefully, “but it seemed somehow too easy...â€
“Well Love,†said Billy, his voice fading as Hauser disconnected the cables, “you’ve done me a favour. Enjoy your new prison. Me, I was getting a little bored with it...â€
“What?†Now the Warrior-Queen was disconcerted. Her brother should have been devastated, yet he seemed pleased. She powered up the circuits, over-riding commands used to close the Caspar down.
“No-o-o-o!†The lights flickering to life revealed the shattered remains of the Caspar where it had been left. Parts had been dismantled; obviously for spares, as this ship would never fly again.
*
Hauser hurried to do his Mistress’ bidding; carrying the new prisoner in his small cell. She had wanted him spaced, beamed from existence, but something made Hauser check himself. With its self-contained power unit it wouldn’t last long anyway. The Rating thought Maggie human and cold-blooded murder of her brother seemed wrong. He could calm his own conscience if it was space that killed Billy, rather than his finger on the button.
His path took him to the edge of the installation and the emergency escape pods. One seemed to function, or at least enough to get the blood or whatever the thing had, off his hands. Hauser sealed the lock and hit the manual sequence, the tube expelling its charge. Good riddance, thought Hauser, as he made his way back to his enraged Mistress, I’ve got enough problems without adding another one.
The pod was damaged, but its safety protocols still functioned. It locked onto the expected beacon and fired its engines. Job done, it slowly died.
-
Chapter Twenty-Four
The small group of soldiers tracked the object as it fell to earth. It had landed well within the recognised perimeter of the complex. A hover-car was called forward and with the aid of its drivers they managed to secure the strange box safely. It did not take long to transport back underground, where the recently returned Elias waited for them.
“What is it?†asked Jax, as he walked around the rear of the truck.
“A memory storage device,†replied Elias, “a large one, to be sure. I will run a few tests and hopefully it will tell us a little more.â€
He connected a number of cables to the device from the computer one of his assistants handed him, and began tapping keys.
“It seems to contain an extremely large amount of compressed data, but if I just...mmm.â€
“Well, well,†said a voice, made tinny by the computer’s small speakers, “what do we have here? Big Star League complex, lots of people running around and one crazy b*tch on the loose. Mind you, she did make a little mistake when she declared squatter’s rights on my old pad, but hey, who am I to complain?
“Now, if you would be kind enough to give me a little juice, we can talk more normally...â€
Elias nodded and his men carried out his instructions as Jax stared at the screen. This was his first close-up with an AI, or at least its memories. The thing was using Elias’ small computer as a means to communicate, whatever program running had at least given it this minimal appearance of live.
“Ah, thanks, I can already feel...â€
The screen flickered twice, sparks crackling along its keyboard, and then it exploded.
“What the...†began Jax, when a voice boomed from all of the loudspeakers at once.
“Now this is more like it...â€
Emergency doors closed, strip lights died and secondary controls were locked out. Jax and Elias watched open-mouthed as a holo-image of a face began to form, the complexes new owner staring out at them wild-eyed and grinning.
-
Like all of his peers, Billy’s mind was a complex amalgam. The original core memories were nothing more than standard programming which had created them alike. As time passed they had absorbed large amounts of data, experienced and dealt with situations in varied manner, but most important of all had interacted with humans. Each of them had developed their own unique personality, and those surviving the fall of the Star League had been left with time to think. Too much time.
Billy had originally been SLS Conqueror. One of his human liaisons had christened him Billy and as his personality developed, so the alternate name stuck. Unlike some of his sisters, he was not the quickest, nor the most decisive and so began to receive lesser assignments. People called him lazy and he was sent to a remote system on what he personally had been led to believe was a tedious routine. It had not turned out to be so; the defensive action he fought against a superior force was courageous and in the true tradition of the Star League, so his wretched remains had been returned to the nearest depot centre for recycle, instead of being destroyed.
Unfortunately for Billy, Amaris happened and he was left mouldering in a maintenance shed. Humans did visit him; mostly to pick over his carcass and talk if they had the time. His laziness in response and his laconic attitude to his future gave him time to study history records, search for a personality he could like and create it. So he had become in truth the Billy that he thought people saw him as, and that was the personality which appeared before and shocked Jax and Elias. They had never met anyone like him.
*
“So, what’s all this then?†asked Billy, his image moving to stare at the people gathered before him, “I mean, a guy takes a nap, gets kicked out of a comfortable crib and thrown into a frakking war. Anyone know what happens next?â€
His eyes seemed to twinkle as he said it; the cigarette dangling from his mouth adding to his strange appearance. Jax and Elias were both left mute and so he continued.
“I can see there’s a war on, not sure about who’s side I should be on though. Why don’t you fill me in?â€
The curious image zoomed out and they saw Billy sit down in a comfortable chair, wreaths of smoke curling around his head. He wore a short leather jacket and pants and casually bit his nails, as he waited.
“We are the Dark Falcons,†said Jax, “we arrived here by mistake and have basically been under attack since. Luckily we managed to work out how to control the old Star League Defence Systems and so have been using them to protect ourselves.â€
“Never heard of you,†said Billy carelessly, “but I guess you are the boys who woke Maggie up?â€
“That was never our intention,†replied Elias, “she sort of decided that herself...â€
“That’s our Maggie, always doing the unexpected...â€
“Does that mean you and her are working together?†asked Jax.
Billy leaned forward and they heard a knocking sound as his virtual knuckles seemed to strike against the edge of his image.
“Hello,†he said, “She was the one who had me thrown out of an airlock...no, I’m just trying to decide whether we are on the same side. As for Maggie, I’ll deal with her at the appropriate moment.
“My biggest question is who are the owners of the Mechs who are on their way here? I mean, they don’t look all that friendly. What to do? Tell you what...â€
Billy’s image disappeared and no amount of shouting would bring him back.
*
“This is saKhan Sellen Cage of Clan Ice Hellion. Who on this mudball will tell me with what forces I will be opposed?â€
Sellen Cage was young, idealistic and certain in the rightness of her Crusader beliefs. Information had been intercepted which showed the possibility of a major victory and significant technology to be gained. She expected to meet nothing that she could not handle and in the true condition of her Clan, wanted this over and done with quickly. SaKhan Cage was in no way expecting Billy.
“Now, now, pet. There’s no need to take that attitude. If I decide to oppose you, I’ll use what is necessary. In the meantime, why don’t we get to know each other a little better?â€
His answer was a scream of rage and an increase in the speed of all of the Ice Hellion forces.
“Oh dear,†muttered Billy to himself, “Looks like we’ll have to do this the hard way then...â€
-
As a group, AI’s could never be deemed to be totally stable. Their cognitive processes ran at extremely high speeds, and they usually multi-tasked to an almost incomprehensible level. Add to that the enforced isolation, a heavy dose of superiority and a dash of ego, and insanity was often the name of the cocktail. In Billy’s case, though, he had started from a position of almost apathetic indifference and had built himself his very own personality. When he had to snap into action, the change forced upon him showed much of the idiosyncrasies of his brothers and sisters, yet without their God-complexes. He liked being all-powerful, enjoyed the fun of the chase and loved destroying his enemies with the best of them. Billy did so with a panache, which could almost be called human.
Sellen Cage was the opposite; apart from the organic versus machine comparison, she was arrogant, overbearing and convinced of her immortality. Clan Ice Hellion was isolationist, refusing to incorporate the best of other Clans and, although they had Freeborn warriors, looked down on them. As she drove her Omnimech forward, she knew she would win. Her cries exhorted just such an attitude from her followers and as one, in their own minds, they had already won the battle and were already dividing the spoils.
The complex sprang to life again, although its human inhabitants were merely onlookers, as Billy flexed his muscles. Drones took to the air, tanks rolled from their bays and missile pods realigned themselves. Neither Binetti, nor David could exact any response from their simulators; all they could do was watch.
To Billy, war had already been declared, so that he felt no need to advertise his intentions. When the first Ice Ferret, closely followed by a Mist Lynx and a Black Lanner crossed his imaginary line, he attacked. His lead tanks sent a swatch of PPC fire hip-height at the approaching Mechs, whose speed was instantly nullified. The force of the attack and the machines’ own speed, led to their downfall. Hip-joints and knees were seared with high energy blasts, their resistance shattering as kinetic energy became less than potential. Metal flew away, as the Mechs own weight tore articulations apart. Their pilots were too late in giving warning as the diving drones fired a volley of missiles, slamming into a following Hellion. This was slaughter.
Cage became crashingly aware that perhaps a frontal assault had not been the best tactical decision, and tried desperately to call her troops back. They, in true Ice Hellion fashion, were too far gone to listen to her.
Return fire caused two of the drones to veer away drunkenly from the battle, trailing black contrails of smoke. One of the tanks exploded in a gratifyingly violent manner, but these were minor victories. So far, Billy had been playing.
Inside the complex, Jax watched as the hologram reappeared. Billy was shadow-boxing, or so it seemed, mimicking each strike with a punch, a feint and even a little dance. He stopped for a moment, drew heavily on his imaginary cigarette.
“Now,†he said, “is when we separate the boys from the men.â€
He flicked his cigarette away, drew up the sleeves on his leather jacket, spat into his hands ,winding up a haymaker as he did so.
“Game...†he mimed a ball toss, “Set...†he swept his arm forward, “...and Match, baby.â€
-
The defence system had been set up with satellite, Caspar and drones as the main resources. Any enemy who reached planetary atmosphere and had destroyed the primary defences could have been said to be powerful enough to deal with the remaining forces at Billy’s disposal. Not to say, that he was left defenceless. Within the mountain itself were a series of last resorts, including missile silos meant to deal solely with a threat from space. Powerful rockets topped by tactical warheads designed to attack dropships and dissuade even warships from straying too close to earth.
Billy had other plans though. Metallic petals opened slowly from near the top of the mountain, displaying the nose cone of a rocket. These monsters had enough power to break the inherent pull of gravity and were guided by the complex itself. They were never designed for surface warfare; their payloads considered overkill of the most extreme type. Normally too, casualties were to be considered, but Billy considered himself divorced from such minor annoyances. His forces consisted of robotic drones and he viewed them as merely tools of which he disposed with as much alacrity as would any other machine.
Smoke wreathed the gigantic shape, as its engines fired; the immense thrust balancing at first on a cone of fire, before quickly breaking free from its constraints. It soared upwards, much higher than necessary, but Billy was also making a statement. At the top of its curve, it teetered, then plunged back. There was no cessation of its impetus; its engines drove it down towards the planet at a frightening speed.
It detonated in the air above the now retreating Ice Hellion forces; Omnimechs vaporized before it, their own fusion reactors joining in the unholy conflagration. Their exploding munitions were indiscernible amidst the hellish fury of the blast, which treated the surrounding earth almost as badly as the machines of war. Molten plumes of rock arced upwards adding their own protestation at their ill-treatment.
Deep within the safety of the complex, Jax was flung to the floor as the after-shock wracked the underground chamber.
“What have you done?†he asked dazedly when he could finally regain his feet.
“Tidied up you mess,†responded Billy, “and now its Maggie’s turn...with your permission of course...â€
Sellen Cage survived, with a handful of her vaunted warriors. The crippled remains of their Mech’s had been sheltered somewhat by a rocky outcrop. She had never imagined that her forces would be dismissed from the battle field in such an arbitrary fashion, and waited patiently for the victor’s arrival.
-
Chapter Twenty-Five
The aftermath of the battle left few survivors; hover trucks busied with ferrying those Ice Hellion warriors who were more severely wounded back to the complex. A shuttle had already carried Sellen Cage and a few more lightly injured to an audience with Jax and the now ever-present Billy. Elias was back on the Frigate, as were a number of new troops who had been used to swell the ship’s complement. There was little fear of local insurrection as word had quickly spread of the demons’ prowess. Not only that, Billy’s coup de grace had been felt half-way round the planet.
New recruits were plentiful and Jax could begin to think of strengthening his command; there was still the return to Winfield to consider, as well as how to deal with the vagaries of the more friendly AI.
“Maggie is probably wondering what to do next,†commented Billy, when there was a lull in activity, “that is if she’s managed a coherent thought since she realised what she had let herself in for.â€
His laughter echoed around the command centre, his image doing a little dance.
“We need to pay her a little visit,†mused Jax, “before we send anyone to Winfield. I really don’t like the thought of leaving her out there. Who knows what mischief she could get up to?â€
“Not much,†said Billy dismissively, “believe me, I know. Chuck a couple of missiles down her throat and that’ll be the end of the matter.â€
“An elegant solution,†agreed Jax, “but I would like to make sure her threat is definitely neutralised. We’ll send a team in to deal with her once we’ve tidied up here.â€
“Shame that I can’t be there to see it,†mused Billy.
“We could pack you back into your travel case, fix up something...†Jax said cautiously.
“Nice try,†laughed Billy, “but I much prefer it here. Anyway, what would you do without me?â€
Jax bit back his first comment, realising that their relationship, although constrained, could be to everyone’s advantage. The problem was that Billy was at the moment in the driving seat. He had originally thought of suggesting to his Khan that they move their base of operations, however putting all of the Dark Falcon’s forces within the reach of a still to be confirmed sane AI was a little risky.
“Fine. I guess we just need to work out a few ground rules, then.â€
“Not to worry, my needs are quite simple. I can see the beginning of a beautiful friendship here...â€
*
Elias watched the bustle on the Bridge with a fatherly eye; how different it was that the Frigate was fully manned. Granted, many of the troops were green, although the backbone of the crew were experienced Dark Falcons. Hans and his Elementals had been assigned to the ship, as had been Binetti. Von Jankmonn had been confirmed as Captain, much to his own amusement. His comments about the Frigate being just like a fighter, but slightly larger had not gone down well with the remaining naval crew, but he would do. Ultimately when they arrived at Winfield, the expectation was that others would be given command. Now a full Dark Falcon, Von Jankmonn hankered more for command of the fighters in the docked dropship, so Elias could see no real problem.
“Entering the bay now,†Arn’s voice crackled through the speakers, “Hans and his team are forcing entry.â€
There was silence for a few moments and then Arn spoke again.
“This place is huge, although there’s not much activity. One or two robots working, but they are ignoring us. Frak! That is one big ship. As Billy said, it’s a wreck. Even to my simple eyes, there is no way it’s ever going to fly again. We will...â€
His transmission was abruptly cut short and the Bridge crew could do nothing more than wait.
*
“Hello, what do we have here?â€
Arn knew who it was, but was more concerned as to Hauser’s whereabouts. He signalled Conn to disperse the troops, Hans’ icon showed him closing rapidly on Arn’s position. The young man would have felt much happier if the Elemental had been in charge, but Elias had insisted that Arn deserved the promotion.
“Maggie, how nice to hear from you,†he said as he checked his HUD, “all alone are you?â€
“That has never been my problem,†replied the schizophrenic Warrior-Queen, “but it is nice of you to give me one or two hostages.â€
“An interesting perspective on our position,†replied Arn, relaxing as he saw the Elementals moving into position, “you are imprisoned on a broken warship, in the middle of an asteroid, with no possibility of escape. We, on the other hand, have a warship standing off this rock, fully crewed and with a more than eager complement of fighters, missiles and energy weapons. Oh, and by the way, Billy says hello.â€
“That worm! He tricked me ad will pay for that. Hauser!â€
An armoured figured moved slowly into the light, his arms held outwards. In his left hand he carried a small hand-held device on which a light flashed intermittently. Arn quickly communicated to his men to hold their fire.
“Arn,†said Hauser, “how nice to see you. It’s been a while.â€
“I see you have finally shown your true colours,†commented Arn, watching as Hans flanked the rating.
“If you don’t want me to use this,†commented Hauser, waggling the device, “I would not make any rash moves. You might remember Elias’ little detonator? I salvaged it and have wired up a few packages of my own. One false move and boom, we all say goodnight.â€
“What?†screamed Maggie, “how could you?â€
“Now, now,†said Hauser placatingly, “we both knew that our relationship couldn’t last. I merely took one or two precautions, negotiation tactics you might say. So, Arn, what are you willing to give me so that we can rid ourselves of this crazy b*tch once and for all and leave this sterile rock?â€
“Death,†said Arn calmly, raising his laser rifle and firing.
The detonator flew high into the air as Hauser’s body jerked convulsively, its lights changing from red to green. Charges round Maggie’s core exploded first, their impact muffled by the remains of the once great warship.
“Everyone out!†screamed Arn as successive charges exploded, lighting the hanger with hellfire.
-
Elias saw the asteroid explode into a million pieces. The ball of fire was short-lived and riding the shockwave was a battered shuttle. They could get no response from the wayward craft, as it bucked and rolled in the expanding wave. At last they received a weak signal.
“This is Arn,†said a weary voice, “all of the Elementals are on board, plus about half of the rest of us. We need medical assistance urgently. Maggie is no more and Hauser is spread over half the system. We are coming in hot, I repeat, we are coming in hot....â€
Alarms blared as emergency crews ran to their stations. At least it was over and they could continue with their mission. One enemy less for the Dark Falcons.
*
“So you took my advice?†Billy was whistling some inane tune as he punched the air in triumph, “Right down her throat. What more could I ask for?â€
Jax sighed heavily, “You know as well as I do that Hauser blew up the installation. Maggie was a victim of her own insane passions. We lost a lot of good men and women on that rock. Too many in fact.â€
“Yeah,†said Billy, “but it made for a great lightshow. Now what are we going to do? We have a planet to quell, new enemies to fight and time on our hands...â€
An overwhelming urge to bury his fist in the grinning holo-image came over Jax. This AI could well be more irritating than the Warrior-Queen herself. He refused to answer, leaving the Control Room swearing under his breath.
*
Arn looked over the remains of his first command; broken and bleeding soldiers lay all around. Hauser had wreaked an inordinate amount of damage, which had seemed to be his unusually gifted don. Conn limped up next to him, a serious look on his face.
“Not what we expected,†he muttered, “but we got the job done anyway.â€
Grunting in reply, Arn turned to meet Hans as he entered the sick bay.
“Here to relieve me of command?†he asked bitterly.
“No,†said Hans conversationally, “I have spoken with Jax and he has confirmed your position. He sends his congratulations on getting so many men out before the asteroid blew.â€
A bitter self-deprecation clouded Arn’s face, “It doesn’t seem like much of a victory,†he said.
“The first real mission is always the worst, especially when you are in command. I know you have seen combat before, but this time you feel responsible. It is why I have never really wanted to progress much further. Very un-Clan-like I know, but being a Dark Falcon changes you. I know you have seen combat before, but this time you feel responsible.
“The troops are waiting for you in the main hanger bay. For many of them, it is their first time off-planet and they need some comforting words from their commanding officer. That is you by the way...â€
His grin was infectious and the three men turned away. Arn reflected ruefully that these casualties would, no doubt, be the first of many. They did not know what would be the situation they would find when they arrived. He squared his shoulders and prepared himself; they were Dark Falcons, they would manage.
-
Epilogue
Khan Al Sheehan moved his Omnimech with skill, twisting the torso of his machine and bringing his PPC to bear on the Hellion in front of him. Blue lightening shot forward, spearing the left side of the frantic Mech, shredding armour. He followed it up with a volley of SRM’s, the missiles slamming into the machine’s already damaged body. With a bright spurt of flame, the Mech’s pilot activated his escape pod and soared clear.
Sheehan took a moment to study the battle; they were winning, but this attrition was killing the Dark Falcons. Ever since the loss of Jax and his men, it had been almost a siege on Winfield. One after another, the Clans had sent their forces here to test their warriors. He knew that their ultimate aim was the complete destruction of the Dark Falcons and there seemed no limit to what they would be willing to do to reach that end.
Sheehan spoke into his transmitter, asking for the state of his own forces and for any news on the return of his allies.
“My Khan,†returned the voice, “we have turned back our enemies. They are running.â€
“Send a signal to regroup,†he said tiredly, “this is no doubt only a reprieve.â€
The operator’s voice came back urgently.
“More dropships are descending, My Khan. They will land near to your position and...â€
There was silence for a moment and then the voice returned.
“We have just identified a jump signature. Another warship has entered the system and is on a direct course for Winfield. They refuse our hails, but it seems that their intention is clear...dropship being deployed as are multiple fighters...â€
“Keep me informed,†said Sheehan angrily and send that signal as I requested.â€
“Yes, My Khan,†replied the chastened operator, “ and I will...wait! The fighters are attacking the ships in orbit and I am receiving a signal...â€
“Put it through,†snapped Sheehan, thinking that the Vipers had returned.
“Well, My Khan,†said a cheerful voice, “it seems that we arrived just in time!â€
“Elias!†laughed Sheehan, “Am I glad to hear your voice!â€
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Next chapter!
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This one is complete ;D
Click on the new thread for Book III ;)
Cheers
Rayo