OBT Forum
General BattleTech => Alternate Universe => Urionverse => Topic started by: Rayo Azul on November 23, 2011, 08:49:05 AM
-
Prologue
Jonti Dumfries tried desperately not to sneeze. Things were made exceedingly difficult by the clouds of dust which rose with his every movement. He had found this secret passage four days earlier and taken time to prepare himself for the ceremony about to occur below.
It had been sheer luck and a misplaced kick which had opened the hidden doorway. His subsequent explorations had shown him that the palace was riddled with these dark corridors, the thick carpet of dust also testifying to their secret. His happiness had been completed by the discovery of the narrow way in which he now sat. An eye-hole gave him a clear vision of the chapel below and that meant, for once, he would be able to watch the ceremonial salutation to the God.
The priests and Lords kept it hidden, especially from such a lowly personage as he. Every year they brought sacrifices to the God’s receptacle and intoned their prayers and pleas. The priests swore that the God’s spoke to them, but Jonti was more than convinced that it was a lie. Power tended to be addictive, and these men would do anything to keep their privileged positions. Was not he himself suffering because of it? His mother had been high born, relatively speaking for one of the tribes, and the local Lord had decided she would be better off here in the palace. Her death kind of negated that possibility and Jonti, motherless and disowned had remained here under sufferance. Today though, he would be able to prove his suspicions, at least to himself.
After a short while, he heard the priests approaching; their warbling voices singing some nonsense to appease the God. Behind them came the local Lord and his retainers. Jonti hated the man; one day he would revenge his mother’s death. Amongst the retainers were the minor nobles and favoured merchants who worked hard to build the Lord’s riches and importance.
The richly arrayed procession halted. All sat on the benches provided, apart from the priests who fell to their knees in front of the raised dais at the end of the chapel and began to beat themselves with sticks they carried for such a purpose. Jonti snorted in disdain and then caught himself, glancing around to make sure he had not been heard. There was no recognisable change in any of the spectators, so the young man resumed his strained position.
The priests finished and cried for a sign. There was no reply, the blackened receptacle of the God remained silent. There was murmured converstation, smiles and good fellowship as the group filed back out of the chapel. No doubt they would be on their way to a token feast and then they would invent the God’s message; whatever suited them would do.
*
The small craft sped through the upper atmosphere, its mission unknown to all but one. It dived suddenly, dropping like a stone for a long time, before levelling out. Now it hugged the terrain, using the mountains as a shadowy friend as it raced towards its objective. Once close, it lanced upwards, but not before the silvery pods on its wings opened, jettisoning four small parcels. Tiny triangles of metal snapped out, giving the objects a minimal stability. Blue flames sparked from their rear, guiding them to their targets.
They did not reduce velocity, instead driving on until they reached a small lake, There they plunged into the water, small spouts of steam marking their passage, which quickly disappeared. The ripples caused by their entry had long since been absorbed by their wind-driven cousins, when four lights blinked on near the further shore. Their brilliance speared through the darkness and highlighted their strange silvery shapes; they were cigar-shaped, rolling forward on twin tracked wheels. A multitude of arms waved and sifted through the air. As one they paused, as though listening, before moving purposefully onwards.
*
Bang! Jonti kicked the black box in disgust; it was all a lie. He had worked his way into the chapel and had decided to take out his anger on the hated receptacle before he fled the palace. There was nothing for him here.
A nearby candle-stick gave hi an idea and he fetched it with the idea of leaving the false God in pieces as a reminder to the priests.
As he swung it back, sharp lights illuminated him mid-swing. They were of an unspeakable brilliance, blinding Jonti with their intensity. There was a whirring sound, a metallic chatter and then the receptacle of God blinked twice, with a cold green glare.
“I wouldn’t if I were you, matey...†boomed a voice, “it might be the last thing you would do...â€
Jonti slumped to the floor, the impossible had happened. The God had spoken and it had chosen him.
-
Chapter One
Jax stared out over the battlements; they had fortified their training camp with an assiduous detail. Recruitment had continued and today they would enrol a new cadre of infantry into the Dark Falcons. He could not afford to slacken the pace as he knew not whether or when the Frigate would return. Local machinery was turning out chemical propelled weapons as fast as they could; Billy had consented to release a number of light tanks and they had the Heavy Mechs which they had brought back into service. The recent fight with the Ice Hellions had also provided a number of Light Mechs and Elemental suits. They were still very reliant on the renegade AI’s favour though, and that made Jax uncomfortable.
Only two of the Ice Hellion Elementals had accepted to join the Dark Falcons; they had a repugnance of acknowledging their inferiority and Jax had ordered them removed from the complex. His plan was to repatriate them on the return of the Frigate. In the meantime, they were just one more problem. The Dark Falcons aerofighter wings were easily outnumbered by the drones and without the unspoken menace of planetary bombardment he felt ill at ease with the AI’s subservience.
Elana had once again chosen an elite of local fighters and they were being trained in the use of the powered armour which was available. Back-engineering of Tech had been halted with the overbearing presence of Billy and this training area was one of the few places where the AI had no direct feed. Flyovers by drones were frequent, explained by the AI as regular patrols, but Jax was not convinced.
His musing was interrupted by the arrival of a column of hover-trucks and Jax allowed himself a small smile of satisfaction. Quickly the gates were opened and the trucks hurried into the covered warehouse. Jax loved giving surprises and here was one he would guard for the correct moment.
*
Billy checked his images from around the training area. He had seen the trucks arrival and had a good idea, or so he thought, of what they contained. His surveillance system was extensive and so he had followed Jax’s collection of the spoils of war with interest. It was nothing he could not deal with though, and so he changed his view.
From cameras in the detention centre, he studied the Ice Hellion prisoners. Arrogant, precipitate; they almost reminded him of himself. He had watched their demeanour change with their enforced imprisonment and had taken a personal interest in their welfare. Now was not the moment to introduce himself; soon though.
*
“What do you think?†asked Elana of her leader.
“Good,†he replied, “but will they be ready?â€
“They will be, trust me.â€
The four stars of Elementals had demonstrated their prowess; the veterans had tested the new recruits vigorously. There was no benefit of genetic engineering for the majority of the new force. Granted a small number had remained with Jax and the two Ice Hellions had helped, but the rest of these men were locals. At first Elana had gone for the biggest of them, in keeping with her own thought process. That was until Jax had reminded her of the ease with which he had adapted under Walter and she had radically altered her selection criteria.
They were a mixed bunch; the weeding out had been harsh and these were mostly hardened rebels although a couple of the ex-Emperor’s soldiers had passed the tests. Those who had failed would provide the backbone of the non-coms for the infantry.
“Very well,†said Jax, nodding in approval, “accelerate their training.â€
A short while after, he found himself opposite a row of light Mech’s their owners making last minute adjustments. These pilots were those from the Hanseatic League who had accepted service and had survived the bitter battle on the planet’s surface. They had proven themselves competent in battle and had taken to their new roles with an energetic pride. He just hoped that they were ready for what might happen.
The lance leader recognised him and saluted.
“Ah, Esteban,†said Jax, “how are the men coming along?â€
Esteban grinned, relaxing as Jax took him by the arm and moved him to one side. The ex-League officer was more than content. He could not help but compare Captain-General De La Cruz with his new commanding officer. Jax stood much less on ceremony and was more than willing to listen to his men.
“Men and machines,†here he waved his arm across the silent Mechs, “are just waiting for the word, Sir.â€
The Hellion Prime in front of them was Esteban’s own ride and now sported the distinctive crest of the Dark Falcons.
“No regrets?†Jax asked the man.
“No, Sir,†replied Esteban, “top of the line Mech’s, a clear understanding of our purpose and a feeling of worth. What more could a fighting man ask for?â€
Jax liked this young officer; he had shown himself quick to learn and his men followed him willingly.
“A mission, I suppose,†he said, “But that’s why I’m here. Walk with me and I’ll tell you what I want you to do.â€
-
The exhaust from the Dropship blew dust and stones against the waiting Mech’s pinging against their armour. Inside his cockpit, Esteban pondered a little over his instructions and the vow of secrecy with which he had been entrusted. His men waited, their engines idling as the ship’s ramp dropped to the ground. At his command, they began to move their machines in turn towards the waiting craft.
Esteban waited, scanning the area and smiled as he saw the approaching hover trucks. Infantry clung to the side of them, their kit piled alongside the covered crates in the rear of the vehicles. The recently arrived dropship now sat alongside its sister, to which the trucks hurried. Once all were loaded they would immediately set off for their destination. Training indeed, grunted Esteban with laughter, as he coaxed his Mech up the ramp.
*
“Training you say?†Billy did not sound convinced.
“That’s right,†replied Jax nonchalantly, “we have new men and new equipment. All of them need to understand how to work together. I have decided to ferry them to the large plain we identified on the far side of the planet. It seems uninhabited and will give us an ideal area to see what they are made off.â€
“It also takes them well out of my reach...†mused Billy, “although, my survey drones will be able to keep an eye on them.â€
“That would be useful,†responded Jax, ignoring the implied mistrust, “You can then supply us with a contrasting data feed, which will be a useful counterpoint to the troops own reports. Anything you can provide us would be useful.â€
Jax would have liked no interference from Billy, but he knew it was impossible. Rather he would appear enthused, which just might put the AI off a little. It would also allow him to have an excuse for further troop movements. He did not want to leave any particular pattern for the AI to study; everything must appear random.
*
Esteban had supervised the unloading of the first dropship and now walked into the larger bay of the second craft. The main body of the soldiers had now disembarked, leaving a small knot of men around the uncovered crates. With a crack, the top section of one of the boxes was broken free and a portable hoist brought forward. With much grunting and cursing, the contents were removed and stood upright.
“They seem to have survived the journey with little damage,†grinned the nearest Tech, slapping the metal sheathing the structure.
“Yes,†agreed Esteban, turning to the hulking soldier next to him, “how long will you need?â€
“Give us a couple of hours, Sir, and we will be ready.â€
Esteban nodded at the ex-Ice Hellion Elemental who even now looked on the recently revealed and repainted power armour. So far, so good. Now came the hard part.
-
Chapter Two
The wind stirred the long grass in which Jonti hid. He had followed the God’s message to the letter and, in the company of two of the small metallic creatures, was now camped near to the strange humans’ encampment. The noise of the huge objects which had bounded skywards on columns of fire, had almost unmanned him. They were only the first of his many terrifying experiences.
Armoured parodies of humans stalked the earth on their gigantic legs; one had raced by him at an incredible speed, another leaping high into the air, flames wreathing its legs. The God had told him to watch and occasionally spoke to him in a tinny voice from within one of his unwanted companions. It was difficult for Jonti to describe exactly what he saw; he had a limited vocabulary when it came to divine creatures and their works.
Now he waited for night and his horrifying assignment. He was to approach the camp as close as possible, facilitating the God’s minion access. For him, it would have been much easier for the thing to approach on its spindly legs than him on his chattering ones. Jonti was sure that these monsters would be able to hear him at any moment. So, he waited, now and again bobbing up from cover to check what was happening.
A roar of sound made him fall to earth, covering his ears against the onslaught. It seemed to be coming closer and he supposed that another of the monsters was about to pass him by. The sudden movement of the God’s creatures frightened him further; they shot away on tiny legs, trying hard to hide within the grass. One almost made it, as the other disappeared in a boiling cloud of something, but the force of the explosion shattered two of its legs. It was given no other occasion to escape as a shadow whizzed over the prone man, followed by a heavy thump. The air was rent by a chattering roar and then there was silence apart from the tread of heavy feet.
“What do we have here?†boomed an awful voice. Jonti fainted.
*
Esteban had been warned by his Tech that they were picking up strange signals and had immediately redoubled his vigilance. Scanning equipment soon gave the direction and immediate location of the spies and he had sent his Icestorm out to draw the attention of whoever it was. He did have another reason; triangulation of the position and the use of the Omnimech’s TAG. In the meantime, Esteban had mounted a show, with his other Mech’s marching to and fro, infantry pretending training manoeuvres and one Elemental sneaking out under the cover of all the furore.
It had been the Icestorm’s pilot, Santos, who had provided him the signal’s location and his lone Elemental the opportunity of closing in. Whatever could be said of Ice Hellions they certainly moved quickly. Close on the heels of his SRM, the Elemental Moore, had finished off the enemy. That at least had been his brief report. He had also mentioned a little surprise, and Esteban zoomed in on the approaching warrior, a bundle of something slung over his shoulder.
*
Jonti kept his eyes closed; he had already emptied his stomach over the rear of the monster’s shoulder and he truly wanted to die. Without warning he was dumped to the ground, the fall bringing up against an enormous foot. Jonti screamed and fainted once more.
“Now this,†said Esteban through his external speakers, “cannot be our threat?â€
“No,†replied Moore, “there were two small robots.â€
“Were?â€
“They will no longer be a threat,†replied Moore smugly.
“And will not allow our Tech’s the pleasure of investigating them?†asked Esteban, sarcastically.
“That is correct,†replied an unchastened Moore.
Esteban decided that this one would need watching, closely. With a sigh, he popped the hatch on his Mech and began to climb down. He should look on the bright side, they did at least have someone to question.
-
It was a strange tale, punctuated by references to the God and his minions, which Jonti unfolded once he had been revived and ensured that no-one was going to eat him. Esteben assumed that Billy had somehow activated and antique communication net, and was using it to indoctrinate local inhabitants. What he could not understand was why. These people were well below the level of sophistication of the old Empire and the thought of them presenting any kind of threat to the Dark Falcons was laughable. Having said that, the AI’s use of robots also indicated that there was more here than met the eye.
“What else did your God ask you to do?†he asked carefully, trying to draw the frightened local out.
“He asked me to gather a group of believers who could be trusted,†replied Jonti.
“And how is that going?†Esteban’s interest was piqued but he deliberately took his time.
“Well,†said Jonti, relaxing under the friendly gaze of the young officer, “even now they are carrying out His wishes.â€
“Oh, and what would they be?â€
“I shouldn’t really tell you,†said Jonti, leaning closer in a conspiratorial fashion, “but I know that I can trust you.â€
“Go on,†encouraged Esteban.
“Even now they are searching the Graven hills for the sign...â€
Esteban deliberately kept quiet. He assumed the youth was speaking about the rocky outcrop which pierced the far horizon, but he wanted to make sure.
“Ah, the sign,†he agreed.
“Yes,†said Jonti raising one dirty sleeve to show a recently etched tattoo, “the sign...â€
Esteban gulped. He wanted to instantly race from the youth’s presence and call Jax, but he knew that would not be possible. Billy would, no doubt, be monitoring for such a message, especially as two of his minions had so recently ceased to function. This was one problem that he would have to deal with on his own.
-
*
Esteban stared at the crumpled sheet of paper in front of him. He had copied the sign on it a number of times; a manic doodle which he hoped was a mistake. That Billy was looking for it gave him real pause for thought. The Graven hills poked over the horizon in a quietly ominous fashion and he took the only decision left to him. Grabbing his cooling jacket he stalked from his tent, shouting.
“Mount up, we’re moving out!â€
*
The group of unwashed tribesmen poked the ground with their sticks, following the commands given by their God. It was late in the afternoon when one called excitedly. His wooden implement thunked against something hard. He prodded two or three times to be sure and then began scraping the earth clear. Slowly, joined by his fellows, he unearthed a grey stone structure. With hard work they cleared a roughly six metre square section and cried with joy at their success.
“The sign! The sign!â€
There painted clearly on the opening was what they had been looking for. A small silver machine skidded across the exposed surface and began transmitting a live feed to its Master, who laughed gleefully to himself. They had found it.
*
A token crew had been left at Esteban’s camp-site and they scrambled to their feet as they heard the incoming rumble of the shuttle’s engines. Their officer had been insistent that they could only communicate his message directly to Jax. When the ship landed, no time was taken to discharge any of the supplies, instead the craft immediately lifted off, returning in the same direction from which it had come.
Unseen against the fading sun, a sleek silver shape banked and began to descend rapidly, stooping down upon the fat shuttle. Billy was taking no chances.
-
Chapter Three
The Hellion Prime topped the rise, its body twisting in human parody. Esteban keyed his transmitter.
“Do you have them?â€
There was a moment’s delay and then Moore’s dulcet tones reverberated in his helmet, “Nothing yet, but we have detected movement ahead.â€
“Very well, investigate and report back immediately you make contact.â€
The lack of response made Esteban grin, as did the whimpering from below him. He had Jonti strapped into a jump chair and the tribesman seemed to swing between religious ecstasy and sheer terror. An explosion registered on his sensors, and he saw a cloud of smoke and flame boil briefly upwards in the distance.
“Moore! Come in, Moore!â€
There was no reply.
*
Moore was at that moment too busy to speak. A drone had materialised from nowhere and fired a volley of missiles at the rocks ahead of them. He and his men had hit the ground before they realised that it was not aiming at them. That though was about to change.
“Missiles!†he barked and two of his men knelt to fire. It was a long shot but they needed to do something. Just before he gave the order to fire, a PPC flashed brilliantly and he heard the distinctive sound of a Mech at full run. The drone shied away, presenting its belly to the Elementals.
“Fire!â€
*
Jax was perturbed; he had heard nothing from Esteban nor the re-supply shuttle and Billy was just a little too happy. That and the light tanks which growled incessantly as the AI carried out his own training. Flights of drones patrolled the skies over the complex and shadowed any of the Dark Falcon fighters which had the temerity to take to the skies. It was fortunate that Elana continued to reinforce their Training Camp, yet an attack by Billy was not to be ignored.
His latest interview with the AI had been a waste of time; Billy spent more time singing ridiculous ditties than in true conversation. When he did speak, it was with an obvious disdain. It was time to get out of here.
The shuttle that waited for him suddenly looked slow and defenceless. It was, but it seemed so much more so. Jax moved inside, his guard following him on board.
“Are we ready?†he asked the pilot.
“For anything, sir,†replied the pilot, nodding towards the spare helmet he carried in his hand.
“Good,†replied Jax, “get us out of here.â€
-
Boulders showered down upon Moore as he pushed forward; the drone had last been seen streaming smoke as it disappeared behind the hills. Esteban’s orders had been terse; get up the hill and secure the position and use whatever force is necessary. So far they had seen no-one, but intelligence suggested there were at least some of Jonti’s brother tribesmen about. Another rock spanged off his armour and Moore opened up with his machine gun. There was a satisfying shriek and the thud of a falling body.
Being precipitous by nature, Moore was loath to wait any longer.
“Missile. There!â€
An answering roar signalled that he had been obeyed and a huge hole was blown in the covering rocks. Two more bodies were thrown away and he urged his men on. Lasers fired, machine guns stuttered and soon there was nothing but bleeding and broken tribesmen sprawled ungraciously in death. A flash of silver caught Moore’s attention and he reacted automatically, bullets smashing into the small robot. It squealed and fell over .
“Position secured!†he reported and turned, ready to vent his displeasure on the small mechanical device, but it had disappeared.
*
“Elana, we are on our way,†transmitted Jax, careless in his haste. Billy would hear anyway, and he was more concerned about getting back, than being overheard. Only static answered him.
“We’ve got company, Sir,†said the pilot, indicating the points on his tactical display, “and they are not friendly.â€
“What can we do?†Jax was calm, if nothing else, he needed his people confident.
“If we can reach the low hills, then we have a chance.â€
“Do it,†Jax agreed, “and tell me that we at least have something with which I can fire back.â€
The pilot grinned at him and then passed him his pistol.
“Well, that’s something…†grunted Jax.
*
Esteban climbed down from his Mech and walked over to the exposed structure. It was a stone archway, which had been filled in with rubble and the tribesman had begun the laborious work of uncovering it.
“It is over here,†Moore indicated what appeared to be part of a metal door. On it was etched in much clearer lines of black and yellow the sign. There could be no mistake.
“They will be coming for this,†he said to Moore, “we need to hold this position until we can get in touch with Jax.â€
“Who?†The question was asked in a flat, unconcerned voice and Esteban was at last relieved he had Moore with him.
“Whoever and whatever Billy can throw at us,†replied Esteban.
Moore nodded and began shouting orders.
-
The shuttle pilot was good. He held the unwieldy craft as close to the ground as the rocky terrain would let him, but Jax knew it would not be enough. His men had helped him into his power armour, even though they were only equipped with light body armour. Now all they could do was wait. At any moment, Jax expected to feel the shuttle shudder with the impact of laser or missiles, but not one of his men showed fear. Rather, they were angry; they wanted someone to kill.
“Prepare for disembarkation,†the voice of the pilot reverberated in Jax’s headset.
“What?†The word was forced from Jax in surprise.
“You will have ten seconds to get clear once we round this next outcropping, I can give you no more.â€
“And you?†asked a concerned Jax.
“I have my own plans, and your weight is slowing me down!â€
Jax knew better than to ignore the man’s sacrifice; he and his guard would stand a better chance on the ground, and just maybe Billy could be fooled into thinking them dead.
“We will make them pay,†he said through gritted teeth.
“I’m counting on it,†replied the pilot calmly, as he held the shuttle level, the engines cycling down, “Now, get out of here, Sir!â€
“Move!†shouted Jax, as the side door cracked open. He waited until all of his men were out, before jumping clear; his jets at least making his landing a little easier. Engines roared back into life, as the shuttle began to move away, a small hillock providing it with sparse cover.
“Down!†screamed Jax as he picked up the approaching drones, long before the sound of their passage echoed through his suit. He watched the shapes flash by; predators intent only on their kill. It was at that moment he swore a terrible oath of vengeance against the AI. Shortly after he heard the roar of missiles, the telling thump of their impact and watched a cloud of smoke and debris boil into view.
Jax took a short while to stare after the remnants of a brave man, before ordering his men into line. They had a long march ahead of them. He alone could not hope to face the AI; he needed men and machines and he knew just where to get them.
-
Chapter Four
Elana was troubled: no word had been received from either Jax or Esteban’s force. She was certain that the AI was to blame and had put the whole of their forces on alert. All outlying personnel had been recalled and Mech’s were patrolling the approachs to the Fortress. What fighters they possessed had been recalled and their ship had been moved out of close orbit. It would be ready for when they need it, but she wanted to avoid any action on behalf of Billy.
Shuttles were waiting, powered up, to rapidly move her Elementals wherever they would be needed and a drop ship was also standing by. Where were they?
*
“Interference, Sir,†Jax nodded, it was as they had feared.
“Keep trying for a short while, although I really want to avoid any surprises from our erstwhile ally.â€
Jax and his men were still within the shelter of the foothills; it would have taken him a lot les time if they had all been equipped as he, but that could not be helped. They needed to re-enter Billy’s complex with as little fuss as possible. Drones would be able to pick them up on their scanners, so they needed some form of diversion. As much as his men wanted to protect him, he was the only one who could do this job.
“Wait until you see the fireworks start, and then come running..â€
He did not wait for an answer, but began to run. The exhilaration of the suit’s movement overtook him, and he soon forgot about the danger. Billy had made his first mistake in leaving him alive, it would not be his last.
*
The rubble was cleared away and Esteban could see the entrance clearly. Beyond the attempts at camouflage, a large tunnel stretched away. It was easily tall enough for his Mech to pass, but in the first instance precaution indicated that the Elementals would have to scout out any hidden dangers.
“Moore,†he said quietly, “the job is all yours.â€
Moore and his team activated their external lights and moved inside, scanning as they did so. The walls were clearly man-made and a double metal track cut through the rock of the floor. Lights dotted the ceiling and walls, but they were inactive. Whoever had left this facility, had one so after shutting down all power.
“Nothing so far,†said Moore, as he led his men further in.
The floor sloped down, leading to a large circular chamber. Abandoned machinery littered the open space and they had to take some care to avoid the obvious pitfalls. On the other side of the chamber, another tunnel mouth could be seen and he motioned his team towards it.
*
Esteban was the first to receive indication of an approaching enemy; tactical information rolled across his screen, identifying the red dots as SLDF equipment. He had no doubt that they were unfriendly forces, but he tried hailing them anyway. Silence was his only reply and he ordered his men to their stations.
“Drones and shuttles,†he muttered, “what surprises to do you have tucked away, Billy?â€
They had little time to wonder as the first missiles screamed towards them, blasting huge chunks of rock from the hillside.
“Return fire only when you have a lock,†he ordered. Esteban was more concerned at what was coming next. They had little ammunition and a long fight would be a serious disadvantage.
-
Moore continued into the tunnel. His suit’s meagre lighting allowed him to at least see where he was going. Switching to infra-red had done him little in the way of a favour and now he insisted that his men split up and find some form of light. He was blinded briefly as light flooded the available space, and automatically switched from assisted vision to normal.
“Power on…â€
It was a little late, but welcome. The tunnel stretched on, finally terminating in a double set of doors. A mess of wire and metal to the right-hand side, indicated where the door controls had been shot away. Scarring around it also seemed to show that someone had tried desperately to break in. It was curious that there was no other evidence; no bodies or spent weapons littered the area, it was as though it had been swept clean.
“Sir?â€
Moore moved to see the where one of his men pointed. The damned sign was highlighted clearly on the left wall, a large arrow pointing towards the double doors.
“Looks as though we will have to do this the hard way,†Moore muttered and motioned the explosive to be brought forward.
“This had better be worth it, “ he said, as he saw the charges placed. He tried to contact Esteban, but received no reply.
*
Billy monitored his force’s movement as they approached the installation and began firing. It had been unfortunate that Jax had moved his training force into the area, but that would soon be taken care of. He had ferried a number of his drones there, both to give him air-cover and to allow signals to be relayed directly to him. Larger craft were now approaching, they had lifted light tanks to join the push.
It had been a shame to have had to kill Jax, though in reality Billy was incapable of feeling remorse. Once in control of the Complex, he had been able to reactivate many of the dormant installations and as each hour passed, he felt more secure. There was still the threat of the Frigate and the potential arrival of other external threats. It was because of this he had determined it necessary to open the warehouse; its contents would make him almost invulnerable.
Troops were mustering in the main warehouse of the complex; not all had remained loyal to the Dark Falcons. Those from the local populace had been torn between respect for Jax and his people and worship. They were of little consequence, but it helped. The next phase was the neutralisation of the Dark Falcon Fortress. Air strikes would be the most effective, however a ground attack would give him a chance to field test his awakened equipment.
The AI was still congratulating himself when he mentally shuddered as a number of his external sensors were destroyed explosively.
*
Jax had abandoned caution. He needed to draw fire so that his men could get close. His suit was flat out as he hit the open area in front of the entrance to the complex. The scream of a lock allowed him to use the precious missile in his launcher. It spat forth in a flat trajectory, smashing into the guard post and destroying the gun emplacement. Still on the same course, his machine gun began to hammer incessantly, bowling over any figure rising from the rubble and shattering local sensor arrays.
His radio crackled as his men reported their progress. They were taking too long! Icons flashed onto his screen and he began to curse.
-
Good to see this back in action. Thanks Rayo!
-
No worries. Will try and get caught up.
End of Chapter...
The door finally gave in after the third charge; not only had someone sealed this side, they had also walled up the other side of the door. Moore was beginning to lose what little patience he had when the signal was passed that they were through. No-one had dared to be first and the Elemental used his power claw to tear the hole a little wider. At last he had sufficient room and he forced himself in. Freebirth! Another tunnel. Would this never end?
“You two,†he pointed at the nearest of his men, “with me, and the rest of you get on with widening this entrance.â€
He did not wait to see if they obeyed him, merely moved on, his light faintly illuminating the way ahead.
*
A missile slammed into the building behind which Jax sheltered showering him with rubble. This was not going to plan; no relief was possible as his men were pinned down, even worse than he was. It was time for him to do something stupid.
Cursing, he activated his jets, they gave him added momentum as he shot towards the nearest emplacement, firing his machine gun incessantly. He had not quite reached the position when everything turned upside down.
Missiles bombarded the whole defensive line, straddling the enemy positions with frightening accuracy. Billy was crazy! He was sacrificing his own troops just to get Jax!
“I assume that you are still alive?†Elana’s voice boomed into Jax’s headset, “We realised you were suited up and decided to get this over with quickly. Sorry for any damage to your paintwork.â€
“Elana, how...†began Jax, then, “never mind. I assume you brought a few people with you?â€
“We did, and a few spare suits,†she replied, “where do you want us?â€
“Right down Billy’s throat,†responded Jax, “He has some explaining to do...â€
*
There had been one more door, which had needed a small charge to open it. This time due to the lack of power to activate the lock. Strange symbols had begun to appear on the walls, once they were beyond the door; writing but of an unfamiliar kind to Moore. More pictograms were seen at each junction of the corridor, or at the entrance to any of the many rooms which they found. Above all, the recurring symbol was seen; it was that which had sparked off Esteban’s concern and was the only thing which Moore recognised.
“Follow the sign,†he ordered, they needed to determine exactly what risk they were facing and quickly. Moore was not sure how much longer Esteban could hold out.
-
Chapter Five
“What can you see?†asked a voice from the semi-darkness.
“Nothing, give me more light…†replied Moore.
“Stop. What’s that?â€
Moore turned and peered more closely, the boxes lay haphazardly against the wall, each one seemingly left where they had fallen, as though an undue haste had galvanised their former owners.
“Take care,†growled Moore, “experience tells me that this is just a little too easy.â€
As if in direct response to his comments, the overhead lights flickered and were followed by a grinding noise.
“Contact!†screamed one of his men, “We have movement. Metallic and…frak!â€
Moore had no need to ask for any explanation as a squat shape trundled into the corridor, arms extended towards him. He saw the puff of flame, followed by the roar of igniting gas. His sensors were blinded by the brilliant display and he heard a scream to his right, where one of his less-shielded men took the full brunt of the boiling discharge.
“Oh, no you don’t,†he said, aiming his auto cannon and firing.
*
Billy was unprepared for Elana’s arrival. None of his sophisticated spy network had warned him of the threat. As far as he was aware, she was still entrenched in the fortress awaiting his pleasure. There was only one real explanation and that was not all of his loyal troops were so. Weapons fire from outside, was mirrored internally. He switched his feed to the main warehouse area and was greeted by the sight of a pitched battle. Explosions ripped through his parked equipment, as shapes flitted forward, muzzle flashes stabbing forth. Well, he could deal with that.
“You said that you were willing to listen…â€
All turned to watch the small screen which flickered into life. One man moved forward and nodded.
“Your freedom will be the reward if you provide me with a small service.â€
“I am listening,†Star Captain Norizuchi growled, his deep voice expectant.
“I have a little trouble with some wayward Dark Falcons. Deal with them.â€
“With pleasure,†said the Star Captain, and the cell door clicked open.
“Follow my directions to the letter. There are weapons awaiting you. Do not fail me or try any tricks. Your lives depend on it.â€
Norizuchi smiled. He had been waiting for a chance, some way of regaining both honour and revenge. It seemed as though someone had been listening.
*
They were trapped. Esteban knew that there was no way down; light tanks and attack drones would tear them apart, the moment they stepped out from their defensive positions. However, he smiled to himself, the tanks still needed a way up here.
“All missiles will fire on the co-ordinates I am transmitting…now!â€
He waited for the confirmation of his men then gave the order. With a whoosh, a volley of SRM’s arced upwards, their trajectory’s short and deadly. Almost at once they struck, their detonations tearing huge holes in the hillside and sending rocks tumbling down. The avalanche of stone gained momentum, a second volley striking at the now pockmarked hillside. With a groan, one side of the hill peeled away and added its irresistible force to its bouncing brethren. Slowly, the dust cleared and Esteban was satisfied. No tank could get through that. The only problem was that neither he or his men were going anywhere.
*
Elana hunched down beside Jax, her Elementals firing continually at the entrance way into the complex.
“Well, I would think that he knows that we are coming now?â€
Jax laughed, “I’m sure that he does. The real question is how are we going to get inside?â€
“Our fighters are airborne and our dropship and Mechs are on their way. They will land once we have neutralised his defences.â€
“No,†said Jax, clear for the first time on his plan of action, “there is somewhere else we need to be.â€
“What of our people inside?†asked Elana.
“Can you contact them?â€
“Yes.â€
“Okay,†Jax said, determination in his voice, “they are to cause as much damage as possible and make their way to us. We will form a beachhead in this entrance and hold it until they reach us.â€
“And if they cannot?â€
“Then they will make us proud,†replied Jax through gritted teeth, “and we will make sure that they are remembered.â€
-
“Hunt.â€
Norizuchi’s command was clipped, focused.
“One in three.†His voice cut across his men’s comms.
“We can only kill one in three?â€
The question was petulant.
“No,†replied Norizuchi, his smile hidden behind the visor of his armour, “leave only one in three. Drive them away from the warehouse and let them believe they are escaping. They will lead us to their masters and then we will make them pay.â€
True to his Ice Hellion upbringing, Norizuchi did not think of the consequences of finding the rest of the Dark Falcons, he just wanted to kill.
His men leaped forward, their machine-guns spitting slugs in what appeared a haphazard fashion. Their prey did not run, but fired back, each of the Dark Falcons maintaining discipline. As men died, the Ice Hellions aided their purpose; explosive charges still burst into life, but now the Clansmens’ weapons added to the destruction.
“Stop!â€
Billy’s amplified voice roared into Norizuchi’s headset. His response was childish, he simply turned off his receiver.
No-one heard Billy’s cursing, or his threats.
“Sod this,†he muttered, passing his commands to two of the dormant light tanks within the warehouse, “you want to play fractions? Well, Daddy’s good with numbers…â€
Identical turrets swivelled, locked onto their targets and the brilliant flash of PPC’s split the semi-darkness of the warehouse, spearing both friend and foe alike.
“Maybe now you’ll listen?â€
Norizuchi’s voice broke into his laughter, “What are you doing!â€
“All good little children listen to their parents,†Billy retorted, his voice hardening, “and if they don’t? Smackdown time!â€
The PPC’s flashed into life once more, time and again. Their particle beams providing a colourful counter-point to the crazed machine’s maniacal laughter.
*
Moore resorted to brute force, powering his suit forward and tearing metal with his power claw. He ripped one of the arms to shreds, ignoring the flames which licked around him. Whatever the construct was, it was slow and lacking thought. Its only purpose seemed to be to defend its stretch of tunnel and it stoically withstood his assault.
“Charge!†he screamed.
His men understood him immediately, not interpreting the command as a suicidal onrush, rather one man peeling off and rushing forward with the explosive he required. Unbidden, a grunt escaped his lips; myomer muscles did the work, but Moore heaved and struggled within his protective shell. His effort was rewarded as he pulled the arm away from the tunnel, smashing it finally into the wall, and allowing his man to do his job.
“Clear!â€
Instantly, Moore obeyed, igniting his jets to throw himself back. His comrade was not so lucky as he completed his mission, the force of the blast igniting the liquid within the machine’s reserves. There was no mourning, Moore and his remaining men pushed on; the thing had been protecting something and he wanted it.
-
End of Chapter Five...
“Shine the light over here.â€
Moore peered into the semi-darkness activating his sensors, then cursing as light flooded the room revealed at the end of the tunnel. The smouldering defender followed ancient orders, yet the shelves sparkled with pristine newness. Eight rows of shelves sat within a steel framework, lining the left and right walls. They tapered to a central point, then curved round a central dais to join. Eight cylindrical shapes occupied the dais, each of them presenting a dark and forbidding vision; matt-black, joints sealed and with the sign emblazoned at head height on each and every one of them.
Steel cases sat on the shelves, identification numbers stencilled clearly.
“At last,†muttered Moore, “we have what we were looking for.â€
He called one of his men over as he began recording details.
“Get yourself back top side and report that we have reached our objective.â€
A data burst sent a copy of the room’s details to the waiting soldier.
“You will transfer this information directly,†the man nodded as Moore insisted, “open transmission is forbidden. We cannot risk others listening in.â€
As the man raced away, Moore once more looked over the central cylinders. They were man-size, identical in shape and form. Their bases sat within what looked to be an electronic port, whose connections ran to a control panel to the left of the room. It too carried the symbol etched on the reverse; a silver hand, palm outstretched, on which sat a burning sphere. At the bottom of the hand in bold were the letters A-B-W-S.
-
Chapter Six
"Here they come!"
Jax turned and focused his sensors on the entrance. Communication had been sparse; the inherent insulation of rock and sporadic jamming meant that they were flying blind. Billy would never let these men leave without some sort of gesture, and they were about to find out what it was.
"I count four." Elana's voice rang in Jax's ears; the comment matter-of-fact; there was no emotional display to register the large amount of men and women missing.
"Let's make sure they all make it, they have done enough without support."
"Enemy contact...Elementals...coming fast!"
"Move!"
Jax snapped his command, already powering his own suit forward and targeting the first of the contacts.
"Aah," a voice drawled, "just what I was hoping for..."
"Always willing to oblige," retorted Jax firing at the lead Elemental. He recognised Norizuchi and at least now, knew part of Bily's plan.
"Incoming!"
The comment was superfluous as drones screamed to the attack, PPC's flaring.
"Ignore them," Elana said, continuing her own assault, "they are a minor irritation and were expected."
*
"Ooh, pretty," cackled Billy, his avatar dancing a lively jig on the screen, "you just have to underestimate me, don't you?"
No-one was in the Control Room to share in his excitement, so he created another personality on-screen; this was something he excelled in, after all he had spent centuries talking to himself.
"You are so-o-o clever Billy", simpered his voluptuous creation, "how do you do it?"
"Don't..." said Billy, his voice deepening, "...it's just part of my winning personality..."
Further self-congratulation was cut short as data streamed in from his force assaulting Esteban, or rather ceased abruptly. Roaring with anger, the crazed entity activated new outputs, tanks bursting into life and hidden exits swinging open. Jax always managed to ruin his day, well not this time!
-
Esteban hurried down the corridor; speed was of the essence for two reasons, survival and recovery. The troops outside could not withstand the renewed onslaught for much longer and their prize needed to be protected and carried back to the Dark Falcons headquarters. Both objectives were looking a little shaky. As he entered the final chamber, he realised that the latter was almost impossible.
Moore stood with one of his men, staring at the readout from the screen in front of them.
"Well?"
"Whatever they are, we cannot move them," said the Elemental, "the power supply feeding these cylinders is still active and we do not know what damage we will cause disconnecting them."
Moving to stand behind them, Esteban saw depicted on the screen a vaguely human shape. Four bars to the right of the picture moved up and down, maintaining what appeared to be vital signs.
"There are people in there?" he asked.
"We do not think so," Moore said, shaking his head, "these are energy readings, not life signs."
"What do you think we have?"
"We are not sure, but there is one way to find out..."
"Very well," indicated Esteban, "let us get at least one of them open."
Together with Moore, he moved to stand in front of the central cylinder, on which a green light began to flash. Vapour hissed into the room as the metallic structure cracked open.
*
Billy studied his feeds; Norizuchi and his men were close to the exit and a crackling cross-fire of PPC's and machine guns marked where the waiting Dark Falcons lay.
"Stand back!" he roared, controlling his reawakened tanks, "I will finish this myself."
The Ice Hellion Elemental was not convinced, but a healthy survival instinct caused him to obey.
Light tanks trundelled past, guns spitting in unison. Rock flew upwards marking impact points and Billy continued to laugh as they emerged into the open air. Screaming in counterpoint from behind the bulk of the complex came his drones, displaying the AI's own eagerness for combat. Return fire ceased and Norizuchi ordered his men back down the tunnel. Something did not feel right.
*
"Are all of our people out?" asked Jax.
"Those we could save have now reached our lines," confirmed Elana.
"Do it then," said Jax, "and let's get out of here."
-
Jonti Dumfries followed Esteban like a lap-dog, or at least an irritating version of one. The guns outside had driven him from fear into something approaching abject terror. When Esteban climbed down from his Mech to hurry into the tunnel, Jonti followed. Scurrying in dark places had ever been a hobby of his, and so his fear lessened with each step underground. Once past the now-dead monster he began to feel almost normal, that is until he entered the God’s Chamber.
Prophecy spoke of wonders, of lights which sparkled and beguiled. Of hushed voices and almost men; within the chamber he found them all. Jonti, though, was not totally free of his terror and the hissing which accompanied the cylinders opening, pushed him beyond his limit. Legs would not obey, as did not other more sphincter-like muscles, and a reeking and whining human, slipped and fell past Esteban.
The cylinder cracked open, the insides obscured by vapour. A light strobed, adding to the atmosphere, and Moore stared entranced at his screen as power levels spiked. Any reverence was lost and the unwashed and evil-smelling native stumbled into the maw of the cylinder, a long and terrifying scream accompanying him.
“Sir!â€
Moore looked down as the lights on his screen went wild. The vaguely human representation dissipated, revealing an amorphous mass which heaved and writhed in front of them.
“What the...?â€
Any reply was cut off, as was Jonti’s scream with the click of the cylinder’s closure.
-
Chapter Seven
It hurt. The smash of his head against the rear of the cylinder was quickly forgotten, with the first sharp nip. Jonti smelt something wrong: nostrils wrinkled with the sharp odour of antiseptic, which clung to the back of his throat, yet it could not hide the wet, acrid scent behind.
Another sharp stab, this one piercing skin and muscle. He flinched, trying to draw his hand away from the agony, but it was stuck fast. Again. And again!
It was like a row of hot needles jabbed constantly into his outstretched hand The staccato beat of pain increased, rising to an unbearable peak before destroying his nerve endings. He sighed with relief, only for the procedure to be repeated on his other hand. Light throbbed in time with the frantic beat of his heart and he at last could look down. Jonti screamed.
*
Moore watched entranced at the light show before him on the data screen; blues, greens and oranges struggled for supremacy. The amorphous mass had congealed to two separate points, each a blob of something from which snaked twin tentacles. These writhing appendages were attached to the humanoid representation and were slowly crawling up the body.
“Is that...?â€
The normally fearless Elemental gulped, his shaking voice betraying his fear.
“Yes,†said Esteban, “our lap dog and this time he has bitten off more than he can chew.â€
*
Breathing was hard; the thing had now wrapped Jonti’s upper torso in its inexorable embrace and was squeezing far too lovingly. He tried to cry out, in fact he was still attempting the impossible when the first of his ribs cracked. It would not be the last.
Not only had other occupant of the cylinder invaded his space, it was gradually invading his body. A rapine plunder of his senses; it sucked and chewed its way through skin and bone, giving pain in return. Jonti screamed soundlessly as the parasitic amoebae slid thankfully down his open throat.
*
“Flatline...â€
Moore mouthed a curse. It had been so fast. The lap dog was gone.
“What happened?â€
It was a recurrent question, but still needed answering.
“Who knows? What ever is in there, needs to stay in there, it is...â€
“Sir!â€
A trembling finger pointed once more at the screen, where all life signs were in the green. The humanoid shape had returned and the hiss of vapour announced that the main dish was ready.
-
Good to see you adding to this story, Rayo! ;D
-
This installation had been secret in a time when it was fashionable to have secrets; creating the complex resulted in pharaohonic sacrifices, with work crews dying on their tools, literally. The local population was transferred to the opposite side of the planet with tales of epidemics and radioactivity ringing in their ears; they were better off. Once the complex shell existed, military personnel finished the work, then were reassigned, usually to a battle front. Last to arrive were ABD.
ABD or Advanced Bioengineering Division arrived with a purpose, which few knew of or shared. They were unfortunate enough to achieve every one of their objectives, just in time for their secret to be revealed. There was only one option for these fanatics.
Death came in a public and horrifying fashion, a biological weapon escaping and removing all with knowledge of the programme. Video feed showed their horrifying deaths and the explosions which sealed their fates. Information on the weapons virulence convinced prospective tomb raiders of the need for patience and war did the rest. All went well until Billy’s arrival and regurgitation of information.
Now the ABWS had been released and Jonti Dumfries appeared to be its first victim.
*
“Frak! What is that covering him?â€
Moore was already sealing his armour as Jonti emerged and he raised his machine gun in line with the once human. There was no clothing, rather a raw-looking grey flesh which hugged the body protectively. It appeared seamless, covering hands and feet, with a bulbous conical helmet tapping the head. Squinting closer, Moore started as the grey mass briefly cleared at Jonti’s eye-level, revealing the young man beneath. It flickered between an amorphous blob and reflective silver, settling at last to an opaqueness which glinted strangely.
“Shoot it!†said Esteban.
“No, there is no need...â€
It was said in a whisper, a rasping painful sound, which spoke of disused and musty vocal chords.
“Jonti?â€
“Ye-s-s-s, I am sorry to have frightened you all, but we feel much better now...â€
“We?â€
Esteban was puzzled, but had no time to ask further questions as a laser round screamed by.
“What the...?â€
“Time is up,†Moore said as he moved towards the entrance, “Billy’s boys have broken through.â€
“Allow me,†interrupted Jonti, “it is the least we can do...â€
Moore was brushed aside as Jonti powered past, his skin writhing as it changed to a new shape, bulbous protrusions forming on his forearms.
“Stop him...it...them!â€
“How?†asked Moore, rising from the floor, where Jonti had sent him smashing through men and machines. The sound of energy weapons discharging came to them, as did the screams of the dying.
“I just hope that Jonti remembers whose side he is on...â€
-
“Ready when you are?â€
Jax left the question hanging, Elana seemed preoccupied. Her communications rig beeped and she smiled.
“Your wish is my command...â€
The onrushing Chevaliers were oblivious to such frivolity, PPC’s crackled with ionised insanity, pounding rock and dirt skywards. Billy’s drones made to begin another run and Jax began to wonder what exactly Elana was so supremely confident about.
Missiles rained down suddenly, peppering the tanks and halting them. Turrets swivelled, questing like hunting dogs on a scent. This indecision proved costly as Elana’s surprise arrived; twin Mech’s raced across the open ground, firing their lasers in tandem. Armour was stripped away from the tank bodies and Elana’s men rose from cover, to add their own little presents. Inferno missiles shot across the open spaces, striking and sticking. The refurbished Icestorm raced on, firing missiles at the complex entrance before racing away. Its Hellion partner stood its ground and pounded the now burning tanks, ignoring the returning drones.
Jax pointed once towards the enemy fighters, then let his hand drop as a wing of Visigoths shot past, their weapons already engaging.
“Did you bring everyone?†asked Jax.
“No,†said Elana, as speaking outside of the helmet communicators became difficult, “but I did bring enough.â€
A shuttle settled to the ground, disgorging battle-suited figures, who set up a protective cordon, as the two Mech’s retraced their steps.
“Where are they going?â€
“The dropship is not too far away...just in case.â€
Jax laughed, “Billy won’t be happy...â€
“Perhaps not,†responded Elana, “and that is such a shame...â€
The screech of metal underlined the mad AI’s ill humour, camouflaged silos opening their long unused petals of death. These were anti-ship missiles and Billy really did mean business.
“Time to go!â€
Jax did not argue, leaping at full speed for the shuttle, all the while wondering how they would avoid the AI’s ire. Jets flared and they surged upwards, the pilot deciding that there might be some chance at top speed, although the missiles would be faster. Glancing back, Jax saw the twin spikes of the weapons installations rise, their charges deploying and swivelling to track him.
“Now!â€
A blur of silver streaked past the shuttle at full speed, the fighter pilot interposing himself and his craft in front of the missile battery. His velocity was such that he was upon the installation before the weapons were released and he converted himself and Billy’s toys into an instant pyre.
“One down,†muttered Elana, as the shuttle banked sharply to the right.
The flash of metal on the ground signalled the return of the Icestorm, which skidded to a stop. Its lasers lit up the second battery and hell responded with its fury. Missiles rained down and the Mech raised its arms in triumph, before it disappeared under the storm of fire.
-
It's been a while, Rayo. Good to see you back and writing! 8)
-
True Rat, it's been a while. Lost the urge to write for a while, but re-read the Dark Falcons stories and got a bit of an impulse.
More to follow
Cheers
Rayo
-
Chapter Eight
saKhan Sellen Cage spat to clear the dust lining her mouth. Her refusal to align herself with either Billy or the Dark Falcons left her, and her honour guard, rotting in their cells. Jax’s explosive goodbye provided the key to their holding pens, releasing them like an angry swarm of bees to sting and annoy Billy’s troops. They were fairly ineffectual; more used to Mech’s than hand-to-hand, those soldiers unlucky to meet them either pushed on through, or were already injured and easy meat.
Now the exit was near, or it had been, until the roof caved in, forcing them back to the warehouse level.
“Find a way out.â€
Sellen Cage was used to being obeyed and had yet to be disappointed; her men split quickly into two teams, scouring the now smoke-filled area.
“Here!â€
She followed without question, her men forming up around her. Cage remembered the number of Mech’s taken, as well as those allegedly stored within the complex. She wanted one, bad.
*
It was with shame and a little anxiety that Norizuchi recognised the figures approaching through the haze. He was not quite sure whether he should shoot her or plead for his life. In the end his genetic arrogance won through.
“Why are you here?â€
Cage and her men halted, but quickly realised that they were no match for the battle-suited men and women in front of them.
“No,†said Cage, “that should be my question, as you do not rot in a cell like the rest of us.â€
“I had a plan,†sneered Norizuchi.
“It appears not to have worked,†Cage said, dismissing the Elemental with arrogant condescension, “you may follow me, for now, but we will have a reckoning once we are clear of the complex.â€
His mouth opened ready to give the command to fire, but Norizuchi stopped. Maybe this could all work to his favour.
“Where do you wish to go, saKhan?â€
“Find me a Mech...â€
-
True Rat, it's been a while. Lost the urge to write for a while, but re-read the Dark Falcons stories and got a bit of an impulse.
More to follow
Cheers
Rayo
I understand that feeling, Rayo. It's been years since I've had the muse and idea to write anything; not since the last Black Tigers book. :-\
Good luck and I'm looking forward to reading more.
-
Billy was awfully quiet. His set-backs had been many; beaten to the hidden laboratory, failing to successfully close his trap for Jax, his missile batteries frakked and now his minions were revolting. It could get worse, but he was feeling petulant and unloved. People would have to pay and the first ones would be those closest to his heart, literally.
A swift search found Norizuchi and the addition to his band at last made Billy smile; saKhan Sellen Cage, she had been vociferous in her refusal to join him. Her bad, he would be able to have some fun with her at least.
This time he would take no chances. Metal doors slid down around his central core, protecting his vitals from over-zealous attackers. Point-defence systems powered up; controlled directly by Billy, they were more than accurate. The inner corridors were opened to provide access to a series of tanks, whose pre-ordained positions covered all entry points. Happy was not a place Billy was familiar with, but the precautions would do. Now where had he left the Ice Hellion personnel?
*
“Here.â€
Norizuchi’s voice echoed from his external speakers, the close-packed machinery negating the deadening effect of the large open space.
“You have done well...†said the saKhan, as the lights came on, highlighting the huge humanoid machines standing in orderly rows.
“These were the ones being worked on by the tame Falcon’s, the AI wanted them functioning. He also wanted some form of control circuit, but that was to be the final installation.â€
Cage nodded, eying up the various Mech’s. Which one to choose...? ...ah, yes!
*
Billy sniggered. It never paid to let your employees know everything. In fact, it was best to keep them in the dark as much as possible. What had it been called? That was right treat them like mushrooms...
He watched avidly as the clansmen climbed up into their respective machines, noting the saKhan’s choice and approving. What a shame she was not going to be able to enjoy her toy as much as she thought. That was for later. Billy had a score to settle with Norizuchi.
*
“Look what I’ve found...†the Elemental said, as he dragged a struggling figure from behind one of the Mech’s. The man was injured, blood staining the right side of his tunic, darkening it further. A Dark Falcon survivor.
“Give it to me,†spat Norizuchi, flexing his power claw, “vermin need to be dealt with swiftly.â€
“True,†replied the injured soldier, “extermination was ever the option.â€
He was still smiling as he let go of the firing pin, arming the grenade. A grin broke free, puzzling the watching Ice Hellions as he looked beyond Norizuchi’s shoulder. Outright laughter was heard, just before the grenade exploded, lighting the satchel charge hidden in the shadows and the approaching tank fired its PPC at point-blank range. Billy’s revenge would have to wait. There were Dark Falcons still alive inside him and they meant business.
-
Jax stared anxiously at the now quiescent complex. The lost men and women sat like some dark bile, eating away at his insides. Billy would pay, but for now they needed to regroup. Elias and the others would return, and when they did Billy needed to be inactive. Battle chatter resounded briefly on his communicator, before it finally died away. Many Dark Falcons had given their lives for him to escape and it irked him that his revenge would have to wait.
“We will make Billy pay,†said Elana, reading his obvious thoughts.
“That we will,†agreed Jax, “but right now we need to regroup. What of Esteban?â€
“We have a coded transmission. It appears that he has something to show us.â€
Jax nodded, his curiosity assuaged by his anger, “Get us there fast,†he said, turning to stare back at the smoke rising from the complex. A pair of Visigoths roared alongside, another two behind and one in front of the shuttle. The Dropship would recover what forces it could and join them later.
With a malicious grin on his lips, Jax reached for the Shuttle´s communicator.
“Billy?†he said, “I would invite you to come with us, but I know you´re a little busy right now. Don´t worry though, we know exactly where to find you…â€
He ignored the scream of rage which echoed around the cabin. Whatever Billy had been looking for was now in Jax´s hands. That it would be interesting was in no doubt.
*
Billy brooded. Nothing was quite going to plan. He did have his captive Ice Hellions, but they were little consolation for the loss of the laboratory. It was time to dig in, strengthen his defenses and prepare for Jax´s return. He understood the concept of revenge. In fact, his recently terminated relationship with Maggie had thrived on it. The Dark Falcons, though, had a record of overkill when related to collecting debts and Billy was once again enjoying life.
His questing senses found the saKahn and her depleted minions as they piloted their stolen Mech´s from the complex. At least he could have some fun with them.
-
Chapter Nine
“So…†asked Jax, “what is it?â€
He had arrived earlier, his dropship flanked by fighters, and his landing by Esteban’s troops.
“We have found little,†replied Esteban, “and were hoping that David would help.â€
“I have sent for himâ€, commented Jax, turning to gaze at the quiescent thing, that once had been Jonti, “we will abandon the fort and set up our base here. These tunnels will give us some protection.â€
“They will,â€agreed Esteban, “and there is a lot of this complex yet to uncover.â€
“What about lights, power…?â€
“Under investigation, although we have traced the power grid from this chamber and are gradually clearing areas for use.â€
“There are more like this?†asked Jax.
“At least two more chambers, yet they are inactive,†said Esteban, “we are rather looking for the point defense controls and anything else we can use to deter Billy.â€
“It won´t be easy,†mused Jax, “this base has been dormant for a long time.â€
Then he turned in sudden decision, “Let´s get up top and talk with Elana. Bring Jonti with you.â€
*
The ABWS that had once been purely Jonti Dumfries listened and calculated. It felt a debt to these men; Jonti was still a major part of it, yet his mental limitations limited those of the system. It looked on Jax with awe, felt reverence for the Dark Falcon symbol and knew hate for its once God Billy. In comparison with the vessel which housed it, the adaptive bio-weapon took decisions quickly. It followed, moulding its thought patterns to that of its warrior companions.
“Sir…†said Esteban quietly, indicating Jonti´s amorphous chest.
Jax stared as the mass bubbled just above Jonti´s right breast. Colour entered the grey flesh, twisting and writhing. It concentrated in one spot, the darkness hardening into a clearly defined symbol. Jax smiled.
“Well,†he said, “it seems as we at least know his allegiance.â€
Esteban laughed in relief, the Dark Falcon symbol sat proudly on Jonti´s chest. He was now one of them.
*
Billy had always been arrogant, self-centered and childish; most AI´s were. None of them could understand how their creators could be so weak and intellectually-challenged. Starting from that point, egomania was a given. What galled, was that Jax and his puny force had outwitted him, and Billy was brooding.
For a short while the pleasure of tormenting the Ice Hellions kept him occupied, but child-like Billy quickly lost interest. What he wanted was to be acknowledged as the superior being he was, to pull the strings of all the players in his little game and to be worshipped. Maggie´s insanity seemed to have rubbed off and was gnawing its way deep inside.
Tanks he had. Mechs, too. What he didn’t have were followers. The loss of the secret technology put paid to his dreams of empire, yet not if he could act quickly. With Billy thought was action, and messages were sent. Across the planet the God began to speak once more, and disused communications arrays began to beam a distress signal out into deep space. Billy had his plan. Now, all he had to do was wait.
-
The local priest watched on with awe as the “God Box†began to speak for the first time in living memory. Flickering lights of green and gold announced the God’s awakening, before the box spoke. Religious fervor took hold of him and he sent his acolytes running to spread the word, Evil had entered the land and the God called his followers to arms. They would not, could not, refuse.
All across the planet, in each location where the voice transmission software could activate the old machinery, Billy sent out his call to arms. He was frustrated with the lack of response of over half of the system, but even half would serve his purposes. What he needed right now were shock troops, cannon fodder, whatever you might call them. They had to mobilise and arrive in time to make his point. His drones would add to the mystical effect, and the sound of his voice emitting from such inexplicable “creatures†would give credence to his tale.
Jax and his stupid morality would aid in Billy’s labour, as the massacre of these sub-humans would stick in his craw. Billy only needed this hesitation, this refusal to destroy his human shield and he would take Jax’s new fortress. Perhaps, there was still an option to win this hand before he had to resort to stronger methods. If not, then so be it.
As he managed his messages, reveling in the gullibility of the locals Billy picked up a message from space. Not the message he was hoping for, but one which might just play into his hands. Plans were to be changed after all, and there was nothing like chaos for enhancing the thrill ride.
After a moment’s thought he continued to transmit his message into deep space, ignoring the request for a reply. Let them come, and the chips fall where they would…
*
Queen Aleesha D’Abaye listened to the jabbering priest and smiled languidly. Being careful what you wished for was an old, but true, adage. Relief from boredom was a tenuous and generalized desire, but the universe had decided to shake up her world with a vengeance. The “God Box†speaking was an unexpected, and welcome, introduction to her tedious existence. Her war of expansion into the surrounding area was waning and as there were no enemies of interest left, and her troops were getting restless with the lack of fresh meat to kill. This at least would get the Generals out of her hair and if she played it right, the annoying priests as well. With a self- satisfied smile she motioned the chief priest to rise, and gave him her most enthusiastic and regal approbation.
The Generals were summoned and she gave them a rousing speech and carte blanche in the mobilization of her troops. This time she would stay at home. A pogrom carried out in the name of the God would help rid her of her local political enemies and fulfil her less savoury desires. There was always a silver lining to everything…you just had to find it.
*
“We are seeing a large and unusual amount of movements from the natives,†said Elana as she and Jax opened their morning meeting.
“Oh?†asked Jax, distracted by the silent figure of Jonti whose appearance still clashed with that of the others gathered in the room they had converted into his office.
“Yes,†she continued, tapping the table slightly to focus his attention, “and it seems that we have Billy to thank for this…â€
“Billy?â€
Now she had his interest and she nodded, reaching forward to activate an icon on the screen in front of him.
“This is the message we intercepted and which is being broadcast at broad beam for all who can listen.â€
He held up his hand, forestalling her. “How can the natives hear it? They have no technology of this level…â€
“The God Box…†hissed Jonti, “he has activated the God Box…â€
The what?†asked Jax, swiveling in his seat to look at the newest convert to the Dark Falcons.
“In many of the villages, there is a box of lights, which belongs to the God, or at least that is what we are taught. We first heard the voice of the Evil One through it, and were sent to spy on the Dark Falcons. He must be doing the same to others.â€
“And the people will listen to his voice and do what he wants?†asked Elana incredulously.
“Of course,†agreed Jonti, “they think the God has spoken.â€
“Then,†said Jax with a sigh of exasperation, “we know where he is sending them. What we need is a plan, and quickly.â€
Turning to Jonti he asked, “Are there others who do not follow this teaching, who we might appeal to?â€
Jonti seemed to think for a moment, then nodded, “There are others…the Heretics…but I do not know whether you should talk to them.â€
“Why?†asked Elana sharply.
“You fought them once, and destroyed their major leaders,†said Jonti, “they may not wish to speak with you again.â€
“Fought them?†Jax seemed puzzled, “When?â€
“Too many battles, and so little time,†replied Elana with a grin, “remember the medieval military pieces, the demons and monsters tag…?â€
“There was nothing left of Emperor Julian’s forces,†replied Jax, his brow furrowing in puzzlement.
“True,†replied Elana, “but I was talking about the rebels. We never did find out how many there were…things got a little bit hectic if you remember rightly.â€
“Getting there might be a little bit difficult right now,†mused Jax, “what’s your idea?â€
“We have a few people at the keep still; the last of the recruits, a couple of our older warriors and a handful of techs. They should be able to do something.â€
“And how will we communicate with them? Billy will be listening after all…â€
“I think that we can waste a couple of the smaller spy drones. Fly them there and crash them with a message pod on board. That should work.â€
“Okay,†said Jax, “get on with it whilst I listen to what our erstwhile friend and maniac Billy is saying about us.â€
She grunted in reply and left to organize the message. She was trying to remember exactly who she had left at the keep and whether her confidence was misplaced.
Jax watched her leave and activated the icon. No doubt Billy’s message would be as entertaining as usual.
-
Chapter Ten
Older warriors would have described only one of the remaining people at the keep. The rest were new recruits finishing the last of their training and a handful of Techs who had remained to close down the facility. Lars, or Swede, as the rest of the crew called him behind his back, was one of those chosen to form the training cadre. He was not an Elemental, although large, had been reduced to the Tech caste and reassigned by Elana when she was informed about his past history. He was something strange within the Clan structure, a Mechwarrior, turned sibko trainer, turned Tech and now given the task of training spheroids.
None of the locals knew why he was called Swede, although his round head, protruding ears and constant purple face did remind them of a local root vegetable. He was treating the last recruits to his own peculiar style of encouragement when the incoming ball of fire was drawn to his attention.
“What is it?†asked Nuria, one of the more promising locals.
“Is it a bird? Is it one of ours? Is it…?
“Be quiet!†roared Lars, as he noticed the silvery flash and the spit of blue fire which hit the now ballistic object.
“Weapons! Form ranks!â€
The recruits’ training kicked in and they scrambled to obey, as Lars saw the fighter wheel away as the smoking ruin thumped to earth.
“Someone did not want us to receive this parcel, whatever it is,†he muttered to himself, as he led his team at a jog towards the smoke. “Must be important…â€
No-one answered him. They were used to his solitary discussions and had learnt early that his ruminations were not to be interrupted nor questioned. They would find out soon enough.
Crossing the open expanse of ground in front of the keep and reaching the small foothills close by was a short jog compared to the training the recruits had been through in the previous weeks. They did not forget the harsh lessons as they rushed through their objective, setting up a protective cordon with weapons ready. Lars closed upon the remains of what had been a spy drone and poked at it with the end of his rifle. He grunted as he recognized the Dark Falcons symbol and pulled out his belt knife. It took only a few moments to separate melted metal from the core of the machine, which contained a silver message tube. Inside would be something important. He wondered how many drones had been sacrificed to get them this.
“Back to the keep at the double,†he shouted, not waiting to see if they followed. His was secretly gratified to see Nuria outpace him and take point. At least one of them needed no encouragement to do what was expected.
*
“Did we get through to them?†asked Jax, when Elana stumped back into his office.
“Not sure,†she said, “One drone got within site of the keep, before it was shot down.â€
“So that’s a maybe, then?†he mused, turning to study the latest information projected into the holo-tank.
“I think,†she said coldly, “we should assume it is a no…and plan accordingly.â€
“Agreed,†replied Jax, “which means we have some serious planning to do. These movements mean we will have a bucket load of trouble arriving here within the next couple of weeks.â€
Elana leaned closer and grunted in agreement. Overwhelming force against there sort of immovable object. It would be close and would depend upon the resources Billy committed to the task.
“Will Lars follow your orders…?â€
Elana laughed, “If he stays true to type, and the message did get through, then the answer is no. However his unpredictability could well become the defining piece in this game of chicken with Billy.â€
“Well,†said Jax, smiling ruefully, “If nothing else, this will be fun…â€
Elana roared with laughter, startling the Techs near to the holo-tank. Life with the Dark Falcons had never ever been boring. Why change the status quo now?
-
Lars ignored the curious glances as he organized his team for their next assignment. The message cylinder had been specific and in a way dismissive of their chances of survival. So be it. He was a Dark Falcon and knew his duty. What he had to deal with was how he was going to cause the most mayhem and destruction in the least possible time. He needed bodies, and Elana’s ideas were far too conservative. Lars had a plan, but no-one was going to like it, least of all his own people who would soon have a very different opinion of their erstwhile leader.
“Mount up!†he roared, indicating one of two hover trucks, “We are going to do some recruiting.â€
Nuria made as if to speak, but Lars walked straight past her, climbing into the cab of the truck next to the Tech Trevor. She shrugged. The Swede would tell them when he wanted them to know. Recruitment was already underway, but was slow and specific. He obviously had another idea, and as she climbed into the back of the truck she wondered what new madness he would have them doing.
*
The local city was still in ruins in part, in spite of the work carried out in rehabilitating the damage caused by their attack on Emperor Julian’s forces. Lars signaled the truck to park in the main square and led his squad towards the temporary holding pen, where some of the more recalcitrant of the Emperor’s forces were located.
A crowd began to form and Nuria twitched when she saw a group of what must have been soldiers sidle out from a nearby bar. The locals avoided them, which only caused them to smile in self-appreciation. Whatever Lars was going to do had better be effective. Firepower was okay, but brute force would overwhelm them in a stampede situation.
“Open it,†Lars commanded, and one of his men ran to obey.
The rapidly growing mob began to grumble but he paid them no heed.
“Front and center!†he roared, and the soldiers training kicked in. He signaled his squad to set up a perimeter and they widened the cordon, protecting the hated Emperor’s men. Lars moved to stand on the back of the hover truck and faced the crowd.
“Ladies and Gentlemen,†he began, speaking over the boos and catcalls, “we have a little problem with which I am sure you can help. It seems as though our friend Billy has become a little unstable and we are needed to support the Dark Falcons in teaching him a lesson. Therefore, I am here today, to make you all an offer…free pardons for all those who sign up today!â€
He beamed with pleasure with the silence that greeted his announcement. The shock had turned the crowd mute for now, but Nuria gripped her rifle tighter, waiting for the explosion she was sure to come.
A man strode forward from the group which had left the bar, pushing aside locals who seemed more afraid of them than Lars’ pronouncements.
“Why should we?†he asked, turning to face the crowd, “Have we not given enough? Our homes, our wealth, our lives? First it was the Emperor Julian, now it’s the Dark Falcons…what next? I say the answer is no!â€
His men moved to back him up, and Nuria now noticed they were carrying weapons. Blades and clubs to be sure, but they were weapons none the same.
The man continued, “These men and women are criminals!â€
His expansive gesture included the ex-soldiers who bridled at his remark. It seemed as though they knew him.
“Why should they be freed? And if we are going to free them, why do we need you to help us?â€
Nuria watched the locals move further back, as Lars stepped down from the truck, still smiling.
“Excuse me,†he said politely as he moved through the prisoners. His politeness shocked Nuria more than his smile, if that was at all possible.
Without pausing in stride, Lars passed her squad and walked up to the leader his face set in what now looked a maniacal grin. He stepped up, drew his pistol and shot the man in the head.
“Must have been an Officer,†he grumbled as he turned away from the falling body, “I hate Officers…now, where was I?â€
There was a moment’s silence and Lars glanced backwards his pistol still in his hand.
“Any of you gentlemen real soldiers?†he asked, staring down the disreputable group, “If so, get in line. The offer includes you…â€
Nuria stared open-mouthed as the group cast furtive glances at the returning crowd, the row of rifles facing them and the maniac in front of them…then sheepishly moved to join the prisoners.
-
Lars looked over the group of ex-Imperial soldiers and thought he might just be able to make something of them. Where before they had been down trodden, lackluster and resigned to their fate, there was now a spark of something else. Even the group of thugs might just be able to be used, or abused depending upon his needs. He was just congratulating himself on his cleverness when the still grumbling crowd parted, revealing a small group of tribesmen. An older man, a young girl and two young men forced their way through.
The older man, his grey hair unkempt and framing a face lined with the effects of age and weather turned to kiss the young girl on the forehead, clasped hands with the young men and then strode forward to the barrier of raised rifles.
“Havre you come to join us?†asked Lars, grinning at what he saw as a weak old man.
“No,†replied the man in a deep voice, “I have come for justice…â€
“Justice?†asked Lars, puzzled now with the intrusion.
“There are those within your ranks with whom I have accounts pending. They must pay for their crimes.â€
Lars frowned, “I have given all a free pardon for helping us combat a threat to all our freedom.â€
The man shook his head, “these crimes are not yours to pardon. Tribal law must be respected…â€
Lars began to colour, his temper getting the better of him.
“I will decide who I pardon…â€
“Not this time,†the man said clearly, “these men need to pay…and pay they will.â€
He pointed towards a number of his recent recruits, those who had followed the now deceased loudmouth from the tavern.
“My daughter requires retribution…â€
Lars pointed at the young girl, “this is your daughter? Let her speak.â€
“No,†replied the tribesman, “Fiona is not my daughter. My daughter cannot speak for herself, not after these men finished with her, yet her friend can point out the men who raped and killed her. These men are now standing in your ranks, but not for much longer.â€
“I have given them my word. You are not one of us, therefore they now fall under my protection. There is nothing I can do.â€
“You can die…†replied the man, “or you can give me justice.â€
Lars laughed. This puny old grey hair was threatening him. Thin and emaciated, threadbare clothes, no visible weapons and him surrounded by his troops, and yet still he was being threatened.
“With one word, old man, I can take your life. Why should I not do so?â€
“It is not our way,†replied Nuria, moving to stand by the tribesman, “We are Dark Falcons. Justice is something we live by. A Circle Of Equals will determine the right of this.â€
“He is not one of us,†snapped Lars, “he has no rights.â€
“Then,†said the old man, “I will join you and have my justice…â€
Lars started to speak, but the faces of his own showed clearly what they expected, and he knew what to do.
“Very well, old man. It no doubt will be a short recruitment, but I will give you this opportunity.â€
“My name is Jared, once of the Hawk Clan,†said the old man, shucking off his cloak to reveal twin knife handles in his belt, “and I would that this was quick.â€
He pointed out three of the thugs, signaling with a gnarled forefinger, “Let us make this quick. I hear we have places to go and things to do.â€
“Very well,†said Lars, impressed despite himself, “it is your funeral.â€
Jared shook his head, “You are mistaken,†he said as he drew his blades, “it is my pleasure.â€
A feral grin crossed Jared’s face as he entered the hastily constructed circle as the three pulled clear blades of their own. He would make it reasonably quick, but these three needed to suffer and the others to see what justice meant to one of the Hawk Clan. His daughter would be revenged, and blood would stain this ground.
-
Chapter 11
Jared Handerson was an enigma. His own people had believed him dead, his family and clan destroyed by treachery and greed. None but a chosen few knew of his continued existence and thirst for revenge, although many in the tribal lands used his name as a reason for ill deeds and to scare impressionable youngsters. It had taken him ten years to find the killers of his wife and two sons, his daughter protected, or so he thought, in the arms of a revered friend. His vengeance had all but been sated until two young girls tried to be older and made a simple mistake in a city environment outside of their simple knowledge. Strong drink and stupidity had led to rape and murder, Fiona fleeing in fear when things got out of hand. Now he would give strength to his legend and close this page of his family life.
That he had committed himself to further bloodshed did not bother him. He felt his life was over, and a campaign against mythical monsters would perhaps end his torment once and for all. First though, he had a blood debt to recover and he was determined to exact a high price.
As he entered this Circle Of Equals he looped a thin leather cord around his long hair, pulling the ragged strands away from his face and tying them into a pony tail. His face now clear of obstruction, he grinned at the advancing thugs, causing them to pause in perplexity for a moment. For a man outnumbered, he seemed too confident. He took the momentary pause and his signal and struck.
Lars was shocked at the speed of the old man, he seemed transformed the moment he entered the circle. The bent and gnarled body straightened and seemed to firm as he watched and the blades flashed in a deadly silver arc. The first cut slashed an outstretched arm, the second eyes and then a flurry of blows other limbs in a fountain of blood. Two men were down and Jared stood quietly studying his screaming foes. The third man backed away as Jared advanced.
“I heard,†he said quietly, as he avoided a wild swing of a rusty blade, “that she pleaded for mercy. That she begged you to stop…you ignored her.â€
His opponent began to babble incoherently as Jared swayed away from a shaky thrust, and cut down across an exposed wrist.
“You know,†he continued conversationally as he spun away, dropping to one knee and slicing through a hamstring, “she was a good girl. Naïve but well meaning, kind to even the meanest of people.â€
He pulled back on the thug’s hair, exposing his throat but ignoring the opportunity and reversing his blade. Jared struck twice with the pommel of his weapon, destroying the man’s vision as he moved away.
“You touched something you shouldn’t have defiled,†he said as he studied his mewling opponents, “you looked on beauty which should have been treasured and despoiled it, and now we come to this…â€
One man stood, swaying on his feet and tried to speak. Jared shook his head.
“I said that I would make this quick, and after all, a promise is a promise even if I would like to discuss the better points of philosophy with such gentlemen as yourselves.â€
Three slashes ended their misery and left blood staining the rough ground. Jared wiped his blades clean on their corpses, sheathed his weapons and walked from the Circle, ignoring Lars. He approached the two young men and spoke.
“Tell your father that it is done, it is over. He should not look for me as I will go with these people as I promised.â€
The elder of the two reached into a knapsack by his side and pulled free a bundle.
“He told me to give you this, when it was done, and to say that the time for mourning is passed. Wear these with pride once again.â€
The second young man pulled a sheathed sword from over his shoulder and unwrapped the pommel, presenting it to Jared.
“This, I believe is yours, Laird. It is time for the Hawk to fly once more.â€
They then turned and left, leaving a smiling Jared watching their departure. He pulled the bundle apart, placing an ornate ring on one finger, belting a plain leather sword belt around his chest and over one shoulder and finally adjusting a feathered bonnet on his head before turning back to face Lars.
“Who are you?†asked Lars in amazement.
“I am Jared Handerson, once Laird of the Hawk Clan and I believe I have a promise to fulfill.â€
He walked slowly to join the ranks of new recruits, who moved nervously out of his way.
Lars heard the muttered words of the crowd, Jared’s name resounding ever more loudly in his ears. He could smell their fear and wondered what he had done. This man was known, was someone and he needed answers. Looking at the now cooling corpses he decided perhaps it was best to find out some information before he spoke with the strangely attired tribesman. Curiously he noted the emblem on Jared’s bonnet. It was a striking hawk in silver. The resemblance to that of the Dark Falcon’s was uncanny, yet somehow he knew this man was trouble.
“We leave now,†he roared, anger taking over from his unquiet, “we have a war to win…â€
The recruits lined up and trooped after his own men, Jared falling into an easy stride amongst them. It was strange, thought Lars, how the others gave him space almost trying to ignore his presence in their midst. Now and again one of them would glance at the smiling tribesman then quickly look away. He called Nuria back to join him and listened to the story of Jared Handerson and the trail of death he left behind…
-
Chapter 12
Jax stood watching the preparations below as his people salvaged what they could from the last battle. Moore had done well and his force had been augmented with more power armour than Mechs. A search of the installation and had not revealed any hidden caches of Star League material, apart from a number of other rooms filled with non-powered cylinder installations. Movement by his side caught his attention and he smiled as the thing that once had been Jonti, shifted. It seemed as though Jax now had a constant shadow, one that cast a miasma of fear over those who knew not what it was.
The temptation to ask for volunteers to enter the chambers had been strong, but the stories of Jonti’s transfiguration gave Jax pause. In any case, he would not ask any of the Dark Falcons to do something he was not prepared to do himself…unless of course things got desperate.
A rapidly approaching Hellion Prime on the open land below caught his attention and he tensed inwardly, until he recognized the emblem blazoned across its chest. Hopefully his Techs could find him something else about this installation, something useful he could use to his advantage. As if in response to his wish the ground began to tremble and he jumped to one side as earth and rock split aside. From the ground twin constructs rose, their upper surfaces splitting an opening that the petals of a newly blossoming flower. The Hellion Prime moved again and missile platforms deployed, turning to track the now speeding Mech.
“Please no,†breathed Jax, as the platform locked onto its target and warning lights flashed.
Jax’s hand flashed to his belt, he activated his comm unit and bellowed “Elana!â€
Too late. Motors burst into life and missiles fired in sequence. Three were already in flight when a crackled “we have shut it down…†sounded from his hand.
Jax pulled his pistol free and began to fire in despair. A blur of movement signaled Jonti’s reaction, as he powered forth with phenomenal speed. Hands outstretched and reforming before him. What did he think he could do?
The Mech began evasive action, missile defenses sparking into life, but these rods of destruction would not be deterred. Running footsteps signaled Elana’s arrival, but there was nothing she would be able to do to stop this. It was an ill omen to an already desperate situation, and Jax watched sickly as the weapons closed in on their prey.
*
Lars sipped quietly on his drink, for once contemplative. His original plan was slightly compromised; Jared Handerson and his romantic tragedy, the retribution meted out by the aforesaid gentlemen, and Lars own need to capitulate in front of his people had lost him face. He was a simple and brutal man and so there was only one solution. A quick stop by his confederate’s tent buoyed him; Bones was a squint-eyed, sallow and wiry man whose future depended much on his following Lars around. His own vicious needs were served by the larger man’s temper and so he picked up his rifle and followed. They wandered slowly through the camp, stopping at various fires to chat but inexorably approaching that of Nuria and Jared.
When they arrived a voice called out a challenge, one with a rough accent and four men emerged from the shadows. Tow carried bows and the others bare blades. Lars stopped, confused. These were tribesmen and ones he did not recognize. They wore similar outfits to Jared, their belt clasps displaying the Hawk symbol.
“Who are you?†gruffed Lars, his hand sneaking to his belt.
“I wouldn’t if I were you,†said a soft voice from the darkness, and Nuria emerged her rifle in her hands.
“What is this?†snapped Lars. “I do not know these men!â€
“New recruits,†replied Nuria, “recently arrived to join their Laird.â€
“Their Laird?†he asked confused, “You told me that the Hawk Clan were no more?â€
“It seems,†said Nuria, watching Bones as he edged to one side, “that there are a few younger sons of old retainers still around. They got here a short while ago and have pledged themselves to our cause. Useful in Recon I would think…â€
She had given him a way out, one which he was loathe to take as he peered past them to the solitary cloak-wrapped figure by the fire.
“You will explain this to me further in the morning,†he snarled, thwarted in his act of murder.
“Of course,†she replied, her rifle twitching towards Bones who froze in the act of finding a better angle on Jared, “and perhaps we can also discuss the reason for your visit at such a late hour…?â€
Lars nodded curtly and turned away, the four silent tribesmen gazing after him hungrily.