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This is a continuation of my timeline thread which began here:
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=20515.0 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=20515.0)
This timeline is a thanks to everyone who has supported it, everyone who has suggested something, made a unit I really liked or created a Mech or vehicle that needed a story. It's an Alternate Timeline that takes place across the Inner Sphere and beyond I hope you continue to enjoy it with me.
Office of Bowang, Parliament
Atreus, District of Marik
Free Worlds League
2nd March 3103
Captain-General Joseph Marik entered the office of Prime Minister Alison Kanning he saw the older woman raise from behind the desk “please remain I don’t need you to raise for me” he said raising his hand as he approached the desk.
“You are the Captain-General it is respectful” she said retaking her chair.
“I wanted to thank you” Joseph said indicating to the chair across from her Kanning nodded and Joseph sat “you could have very easily blocked the bills and legislations we have passed in the last few days, the former Outer League Alliance worlds would follow your lead, but you have acted fairly in the parliament.”
“I fully support the reformed Free Worlds League it is the very reason we sundered the Outer League Alliance because we wished a free democracy within our nation. We wished that this Free Worlds League was what House Marik was always intended it to be.”
“And you believe we can do that?”
“I do, do you?”
“If we work together then yes” Joseph said “I was surprised that Lester has been so progressive in these first few weeks.”
“The reformed League benefits his nation as long as it continues to do that then he will continue to support it. The Cameron-Jones family have always been supporters of the Free Worlds League when it benifitted them. Lester like all before him will covet your position for as long as he sees it as a way to forward Regulus’ goals.” She said she was old enough to remember the reformed Free Worlds League unlike most members of the reformed Parliament.
“So he will likely oppose any notion of a reformed Federal Army under the authority of the Parliament and of the Captain-General.”
“I believe he would. I believe I would” Alison Kanning admitted “the Free Worlds Guards are spread across our nation as is your Marik Militias all former Federal troops are now part of the nation states around of the Free Worlds League or part of the SLDF.” She pointed out “I am not sure if we need to resurrect old wounds our Districts already have significant military forces.”
“They are just not as united as we may need them Clan Wolf is still a threat to all of us.”
“Should the Wolves rear their head we will smack them in the mouth and have them scurrying back onto the worlds they have taken” she said with more steel than Joseph had expected. “But the Free Worlds League has not been reformed purely as a military alliance. Before the split of the Free Worlds League we had trade, education and a production base rivalling the whole Inner Sphere.” She said she saw Joseph smile at the images she had suggested “we should rebuild these attributes as quickly as making Clan Wolf scared of our worlds.” She said watching Joseph Marik’s reactions for a moment “there’s hope for you yet my young sire.” He looked at her a question on his face “you’ve thought about each one of my points already I can see your thoughts and dreams played in your eyes” she said “the only one you didn’t think was completely realistic was making the Wolf afraid. It’s good you are thinking like a Captain-General should about his people.”
“I’m only thinking that way because the leaders of the Free Worlds League are keeping me on the right course.”
“Flattery to an old woman” she said rising from her chair “if I were twenty years younger your young wife would be in trouble.” She joked heading over to a small stand with refreshments. “It will be a long road perhaps I will see some of it.”
“A long road that the Free Worlds League will walk together” Joseph agreed “all of us.” He said Alison Kanning glanced over at the Captain-General and smiled.
“Time is a fickle thing, my young sire, make sure you make the most out of life while you can.” She said pouring her drink she offered Joseph a drink but he shook his head declining “you blink your eyes and it is all gone.”
“It has been quite a blink you have experienced” Joseph said “the Independence of Bowang, the Trade Sphere, the Outer League Alliance and now a reformed Free Worlds League. Many would pay a great deal for half of that journey.”
“Yes it has” she agreed “and now House Marik” she said raising her glass towards Joseph “is united once more. Once more on par with the other Succession States.”
“We have to prove that we can stand with them” Joseph said
“We will together” Alison Kanning said finally Joseph half bowed his head in agreement with the Bowang Districts leader confident that his nation was on the right track forward.
Product demonstrations
Talitha/Irece
Draconis Combine/Free Worlds League
17th March 3103
After spending years developing new technology for use in Land Air Mechs the companies of Gilmour MilTech and LexaTech Industries introduce new production variants of the Yurei LAM and Screamer LAM using new technology adding them to other produced units. The two companies also debut the Pwwka LAM a new thirty ton design using an extra-light gyro and four Extended Range Medium Lasers.
Like previous products the new Land Air Mech designs are all offered to anyone who can pay the price the two companies ask for them. The majority of Gilmour's products continue to go to the SLDF and mercenaries aligned with them while ninety percent of LexaTech's products go to the DCMS.
Border Deployment
Filtvelt, Filtvelt Coalition
Periphery
20th March 3103
“In response to the recent aggression from Clan Nova Cat Filtvelt welcomes assistance from the Federated Suns.” Marquees Helen Tremealeau, the leader of Filtvelt and its Coalition, announced in the message that would be transmitted to Filtvelt and to the other worlds of the nation. “The Federated Suns has agreed to help defend our soil from this aggression and has agreed to leave when the time comes.” She said she barely believed the words she had spoken it had taken decades for the Filtvelt to gain its independence from the Federated Suns and it was unlikely that it would happen again. Twenty-three years ago she had spoken to First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion about Filtvelt’s desire to remain independent it felt like a lifetime ago. “The people of Filtvelt are a proud one we have survived threats to our world before and we will survive this new unpleasentness.” On Filtvelt the First and Second Tikonov Cossacks RCTs and three regiment-sized mercenary regiments including the Wild Geese would help secure their world while the FSS Filtvelt, a Hound-class Corvette, would assist in the defence of their JumpShips and shuttles.
Territorial Exchange
Clan Occupation Zones
21st March 3103
With an expanding frontier with the Lyran Commonwealth the Hell’s Horses turn control over the Malibu, Derf, Winfeld, Persistance, Steelton and Toland systems over to the control of Clan Sea Fox. In exchange the Hell’s Horses gain BattleMechs, Armour and Battle Armour suits to outfit two full Clusters and the control over three WarShips, two newly built ships and a newly built Jade Lion-class Battle-cruiser. The Sea Foxes also agree to trade Harjel to the Hell’s Horses at a cheeper price than normal to keep the Clan’s military machine at supplied longer. With control over all the systems between Twycross and the periphery Clan Sea Fox is able to move supplies between their Inner Sphere worlds and the Chainelane Isles without interference.
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Since the last thread had reached page 50 I want to just answer a couple of points from the previous update.
Wrangler - Lester Cameron-Jones is nothing like the canon one in this AU. He currently sees the reformed FWL as something that will benefit him and his nation although that might not always be the case. His nation is also completely surrounded by the other states at the moment so not rejoining would have been a bad call.
marauder648 - just how far the Jade Falcons have pushed themselves will be revealed shortly
Rainbow 6 - the Lyran Commonwealth and friends on the offensive >:D now who would have ever thought....
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*ping*
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Nice update!
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Taggity tag.
TT
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It's good to see you have reached your second thread. O0
Noticed that the FS sent merc's to help Filtvelt not house troops, smart move.
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It's good to see you have reached your second thread. O0
Noticed that the FS sent merc's to help Filtvelt not house troops, smart move.
Took a while getting there
They actually sent both the Tikonov Cossacks Brigade are house troops of the AFFS based in the Crucis March primarily. They along with the New Avalon Guards have largely replaced the defunct Avalon Hussars
I really need to get back to working on the House/Clan unit listings :-[
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I really need to get back to working on the House/Clan unit listings :-[
Dragon Cat [whipit] >:D
TT O:-)
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It's good to see you have reached your second thread. O0
Noticed that the FS sent merc's to help Filtvelt not house troops, smart move.
merc's are much better then house units for a large amount of reasons
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Merc are expendable assets, much mores than House units.
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A quick question Dragon Cat, the Warship the Lyran's lost recently to the Falcons, what class was she, an Avalon right?
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Merc are expendable assets, much mores than House units.
The Mercs in question may disagree with that statement.
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Dragon Cat [whipit] >:D
TT O:-)
O0
A quick question Dragon Cat, the Warship the Lyran's lost recently to the Falcons, what class was she, an Avalon right?
I'm going to answer now since I haven't even started the next update and will be a few days to sort it out at least.
If you mean the LCS Nondi Steiner no she was a Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser. The only Avalon the Lyrans had was a modified ship known as the Archon's Pride and she got blown to pieces by the Jade Falcons 3 years ago (in the timeline).
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O0
I'm going to answer now since I haven't even started the next update and will be a few days to sort it out at least.
If you mean the LCS Nondi Steiner no she was a Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser. The only Avalon the Lyrans had was a modified ship known as the Archon's Pride and she got blown to pieces by the Jade Falcons 3 years ago (in the timeline).
Ahh got ya and dang it! :p Just sent ya a thing for your perusal that kinda is invalidated now :P
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;D nice update! Its nice to see the new FWL and for now a nice political cooperation. The Clans also cooperating in their own way. Hmm... wonder what innersphere shattering event you have coming up? Keep it up!
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My thanks to marauder648 for deciding the fate of New Extford with an excellent battle-story. Hope you enjoy April 3103
AFFS Command
District City, Kathil
Capellan March, Federated Suns
16th April 3103
Colonel Richard Steiner stepped into the AFFS Command Centre on Kathil this place was familiar to him, but it was not like his regiment… like his regiment had been he thought, even as he thought of what had happened to the First Kathil Uhlans his wounds ached. Under his duty uniform his right arm and the upper right quarter of his chest and lower neck were heavily bandaged from the burns he had sustained on Verlo.
Each time he closed his eyes Richard was back on that damned planet, that night, in the early hours of the morning a firebomb had ripped through the Uhlans base camp shocking their command. Richard still had no idea how it had happened but he and roughly half of the unit had been inside the barracks when the bombs had gone off, thirty-two MechWarriors had died in the resulting fire before they’d even made it to their Mechs.
Suffering from burns Richard had made it to his Templar OmniMech the ice in his coolant vest had aggravated but also calmed the pain from his burns. The Kathil Uhlans had been under heavy attack on the ground from at least two Capellan Confederation Warrior Houses. Richard had marshaled his remaining forces ordering his warriors to retreat to their DropShips and escape the planet. For eight hours he had fought against the Capellans and watched three regiments of his support troops sacrifice themselves before evacuating with less than a combined arms regiment into three DropShips.
Even as he hung in his OmniMech Richard had found no respite their DropShips had been assaulted by the Hell’s Black Angels Aerospace Unit. The Capellan fighters had dived on the retreating DropShips intent on wiping out the Kathil Uhlans. Richard had missed the resulting battle passing out in his BattleMech as he finally blacked out from the pain caused by his wounds. He’d watched the reruns of their escape the arrival of their WarShip the FSS Ellen Davion, a Davion III-class Destroyer, which had made an intersystem jump most likely breaking its KF Drive to do it. The Ellen Davion had dived into the battle slashing at the Hell’s Black Angels DropShips. Undeterred the Capellan Aerospace forces had turned on the single destroyer punching through its defences causing heavy damage in several obviously practiced runs then finally almost in one final attack the Capellans had struck the Ellen Davion with a nuclear-tipped anti-ship missile consuming the half a million ton vessel in a blinding flash. The attack had blinded the Uhlans but it had also affected the Hell’s Black Angels sensors allowing the DropShips to escape.
Now on Kathil the remains of the Uhlans would begin the long process of rebuilding. Richard Steiner while still the Regiment commander would be sidelined for at least six months due to his burn injuries instead of commanding his unit he would be working from the Command Centre on Kathil. That wasn’t to say he wouldn’t be busy the attack on Verlo had been the Capellan’s most successful but it hadn’t been the only one they’d attacked Victoria, Menke, Mitchell, Jonzac and Sidar while the Taurian Concordat had joined them assault MacLeod’s Land and Laconis along their shared border. From what Richard had understood the AFFS was holding the Capellans on Victoria and Sirdar. While Mitchell, Menke, Jonzac and Verlo were confirmed to have fallen both worlds targeted by the Taurians had been abandoned by the AFFS with their troops moved to other areas.
Richard approached the main tactical table which showed a map of the Federated Suns and most importantly the Capellan March. Standing around the table was Field Marshal Nathaniel Hasek, possibly the oldest warrior in AFFS service, despite his age the years did not show on him today the Field Marshal of the Capellan March was in his element directing the Capellan March in a war. “Reporting as ordered Field Marshal” Richard said the old man looked over at him and smiled he was Kym Hasek’s uncle and they knew each other well.
“Welcome back to Kathil Colonel”
“Thank you” Richard said “what’s our status sir?”
“OPERATION DOWNFALL is in effect.” Nathaniel said naming of of the Federated Suns Counter-attack strategies. “Units based off St Ives had successes on Brighton and Taga. While reinforcements are being routed to Sirdar and Victoria” he said Richard flinched his wife Duchess Kym Hasek was on her way to Victoria with Federated Suns Naval forces. “The New Hessen Mercenary Regiments have launched an attack on Ningpo and Algol” Nathaniel said as further worlds lit up “while Jaylen Davion has forced her way onto Grand Base with the First St Ives Lancers” the Field Marshal said with a predatory grin. “The Capellans were not expecting the whole March to rise against them.” He said triumphantly as a support officer entered handing Richard an information pad he quickly looked over it.
“Or perhaps they did.” He said connecting the pad to the main computer screen the map updated “secondary attacks from the Capellans. Sirdar has fallen the Eighth Syrtis Fusiliers RCT are no more while Foundation Industries WarShip Vidar has been destroyed.” He said naming the independent Riga-class WarShip registered as a mercenary unit by the company. “Secondary Capellan and Taurian strikes have struck Broden, Columbine, Vard, Pojo, Muridox and Larsha.”
“So the battle is joined” Nathaniel Hasek said his predatory smile never dropping once, he didn't know the Taurian motivation but they'd pay the price too, “shall we see how well the Capellans dance Colonel?”
“As long as we start with the easy steps, sir” Richard joked thinking of his arm and back.
“Every step with a Capellan is an easy one you just aim for the bastard’s toes” Nathaniel said laughing looking up at the map their long peace with the Capellans was over his final campaign had begun.
Battle for New Extford
New Extford
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
20th April 3103
The SLS Firedrake’s engines rumbled slightly as she burned towards New Extford, a world that had been under Jade Falcon occupation for too long. Her CiC was quiet, crew quietly muttering orders into their mics as the Patriot class heavy cruiser went to battle.
“Sir Captain Moore on the Marshal Ney reports that the screen is in position.”
“Thank you, CAG?”
“All our birds are in the black Sir, the assault forces have their own organic cover and the Otaka’s going to stay with them in case the Clan dropper’s break off and make a run for them.”
“Excellent. Comms. Give Captain Tanaka my regards, tell her that she may engage as needed and she does not have to conform to the maneuvers of the flagship.”
That had been a serious risk, the Otaka was a capable warship but against a battle-cruiser she was out of her league, still the Clan group appeared to be sticking in close formation, their four DropShips leading the way whilst their fighters had yet to launch.
“What do we have on the Jade Lion?”
“Not much Sir, the Foxes are not talking about them but she’s reading basically as a modified Black Lion.
Captain Kurt Thobal nodded, looking at the sensor display and the long range cameras that were locked onto the distant Falcon Warships, back lit by the blue and green of the world they were defending.
He had the superior force, even if the enemy capital ship out massed both of his vessels, they had more fighters, more and he was sure better assault DropShips. But his fighters were spread between his group and the assault force carrying SLDF's Second Division, Third Brigade, The Crater Cobras and the Second Dismal Disinherited Regiment to the planet.
The fact that there were Mercs present had gotten the Falcons backs right up, a request for a bid had been met with static as the Clan force broke orbit and moved out. But they had not gone hell for leather for the vulnerable JumpShips and their precious cargo, but for the obvious challenge of the WarShips escorting them.
“Sir! Enemy craft are launching fighters!”
“Get me an ID on the type.”
“Reading…10 Scytha and 10 Hydaspes from the Jade Lion and..Carrier’s launching…reading them as Avar’s Sir!”
There were some mutters on the bridge, Clan Sea Fox had been producing the Hydaspes en mass and had found a ready market with the other Clans who were snapping them up as soon as they were produced.
“CAG?”
“We can handle that, we’ll have Gold Group engage the Scytha’s and just pick the rest off.”
“Signal the escort group, they are weapons free to engage targets of opportunity, but they will concentrate fire when I say.”
“Weapons, spin up the missiles, conventional warheads only, release of Special Weapons is not authorized.”
“Aye Sir! Spinning up the birds now!”
Whilst it took a few words and a series of computer commands the results were far more impressive.
Hatches along the cruisers bow and forward flanks popped open as multi-tonne missiles were fed into the launch tubes from their rotary ammunition holders. Each missile came to life in a heartbeat, its computer talking with the cruisers, feeding it targeting data, range, speed, predicted course.
Two hoses connected, the hydrogen slush fuel pumps pouring thousands of gallons of the freezing cold liquid into the missiles tanks in the space of a few seconds.
“Data link is good, all missiles fulled and ready to fire.”
“Excellent, link targeting data with the escorts.”
“Data coming through now.”
“Very good. Open fire!”
A simple press of a button was all it took. Each launch tube was lined with electro-magnets that would give the multi-tonne weapon a push out of the tube, thrusters flashed on the Killer Whale missiles sides to turn them towards the target as they drifted a dozen feet from their mothership before their rockets ignited, pushing them to full speed in a few seconds, their motors leaving behind a faint grey trail of ‘smoke’ from their spent fuel.
“Missiles away! Reloading now, all birds running hot, no malfunctions! Four minutes until DropShip screen!”
The escorting Overlord A3’s Churchill and Alexander added to the barrage as did the Legacy of Fire; an impressive looking Nekohono’o.
Thousands of kilometers ahead the missiles raced on, their data feed overriding their LADAR and Radar, focusing on the mass of the Jade Falcon their path taking them over the dropship screen before the Clan Warship.
As the range dropped the escorts immediately opened fire with a blizzard of anti-missile fire, whilst the swift and agile Avar’s dove on the missiles.
“Nine missiles destroyed sir; one is reading a…make that ten, destroyed, and they are through the screen.”
Now it was up to the Jade Lion’s defenses and they didn’t disappoint. Of the 21 missiles launched, only three survived to impact with the Clan Warship’s hull, Buckling but not breaching the hull in brief flashes of fire.
“Ready to fire again Sir!”
“Fire, target the escort group, we won’t get through those defenses with all them in the way.”
“Sir! Missiles launched from the Jade Lion no radiological alarm.”
The Captain nodded, even the Clanner’s didn’t want to let that gene out of the bottle.
“Fire the screen launcher, and weapons free on point defenses!”
“Aye Sir! Sir! Enemy missiles are actively pinging the Alexander!”
Captain Thobal bit back a curse, the Overlord A3’s lacked an AMS of their own and despite their missile heavy armament and they were also vulnerable to missiles themselves.
“Signal the Alexander and have her move closer so she is shielded by our AMS and I want a screen deployed now!”
The Screen launcher system ‘fired’ a heavy canister into space, it split open like a blossoming flower, filling the space calculated that the hostile missiles would go through with decoys, electronic jammers, chaff and other still classified devices, all working to jam, confuse and entice the inbound missiles. Six of the Clan’s missiles fell for the decoys and electronic sirens, their on-board systems registering a massive target that filled their radar ‘eyes’ and made their computer brains register they had found their target. Bright flashes of detonations bloomed in the darkness of space but two missiles kept going, both slightly below the main flight and slightly astern, their radar seekers firmly locked on the return they were getting from the Alexander, their heat seeker heads reading the thermal bloom of its thrusters.
One missile never made it, cut in half by a long blurt of AMS fire at extreme range but the final missile kept going, completing its one service for Clan Jade Falcon as the pointed head of the missile rammed into the Overlord A3 at Mach 10.
Even as it was crushed into oblivion the fuse activated and the missile detonated, the huge shaped charge detonating, venting its fury against the Overlord’s hull as it and the remaining fuel detonated in a blinding flash.
“Damage report from the Alexander, one of their AR-10 tubes is jammed shut, the hull is buckled and ‘we have a new porthole in the upper starboard side’, no fires reported and she is holding position.”
“Very good, keep firing!”
As the range dropped the weapons fire picked up. The Carrier class DropShip Argus was ripped in half by a quartet of missile strikes that set off her fuel tank whilst the Claymore Tegetthoff, was dropping back, her hull breached and heavily damaged by a missile strike. The Aerospace fighters on both sides rolled in to engage as the surviving trio of Clan assault DropShips, a pair of Eisigrim’s and a Noruff went to full thrust and began engaging the SLDF’s ships.
“Sir…” The comm’s officer stopped his report as the ship rocked slightly as a PPC burst melted hull armour.
“The Otaka reports that the DropShips are entering the atmosphere and she is en-route to our location.”
“Understood, guns keep targeting the Jade Lion and keep firing!”
The blackness of space was light up by brief puffs of exploding missiles and long jagged lines of laser light. Outnumbered the Jade Falcon assault DropShips clung together in a group, their interlinked AMS cutting down most of the missiles directed their way, but even then they were taking damage. But giving it too. The trio rolled, burning retro’s hard, catching the Arondight Marshal Ney flat footed and a volley of missiles at no more than a few dozen miles, point blank in space terms saw the big assault DropShip burst like an over inflated balloon. She was joined in death moments later when the Noruff Daughter of the Tempest was hit hard by a pair of Kraken-T missiles, the ship rolling bow over stern in an unrecoverable dive that saw the G-force spiraling wildly before the ship ripped itself apart, spilling metal and its crew across the battlefield.
With her escorts being overwhelmed the Jade Lion altered her course, rolling to present her guns not to the Firedrake but the onrushing assault DropShips and Otaka.
The Combine built ship’s weapons were spitting as soon as they charged or reloaded, massed batteries of PPCs, gouging into the Isegrim Honour and setting her aflame as her ATM ammo in the wing detonated. A NAC round slammed hard into the Jade Lion’s side, smashing a turret into ruin before the Clan warship completed her roll and opened fire.
The Izuma II was a capable warship, fast, well-armed and heavily protected for a ship its size, but she was still only a corvette.
At short range the guns of the Jade Lion hammered into the Otaka the impacts physically knocking the smaller ship aside before something was hit. One of the Otaka’s autocannon’s took a hit a moment before it fired. The gun, the shell and propellant all detonated in a thundering flash of heat and supersonic fragments. Bulkheads activated but the force of the blast was too great, the explosion ripping into the read to use shells which detonated moments later. The explosion gutted the forward port side of the corvette and she rolled debris and ribbons of fire streaming from her hull like blood from a wound as her damage control parties worked to save the ship.
But despite this success the Jade Lion was hurting, weapons had been disabled, there was fire on several decks and her support was almost gone.
“Sir! She’s running!”
“Thank god…what is our status?”
“We’ve compartments open to space, the fire on the port side is out, but the secondary reactor’s murmuring. Department heads reporting casualties twenty-four confirmed dead, at least sixteen crew reported missing and numerous injuries.” They’d been hurt but they were still going.
“Land forces?”
“They are away and deploying, reporting heavy contact.”
“Understood… give that Clan bastard a few more missile volley’s to keep her honest and then stand down, recover our fighters and look for any life pods.”
The fighting on New Extford was bloody almost from the start. The two Clusters almost ignored the SLDF regiment and instead threw themselves in a fury at the Second Dismal Disinherited Regiment, leaving only a thin screen to harass the Crater Cobra’s as they made their advance.
At first it seemed that the Clan’s would overrun the landing zone but frantic calls for air support yielded success and the tattered remnants of Gold Flight, one made purely of Eisensturm assault fighters dove through the atmosphere, strafing and bombing the Clan forces even as the Crater Cobra’s slammed into their exposed flank.
Pushed back the Clusters withdrew in an orderly fashion behind a suicidal rear-guard but under constant air attack and with the SLDF forces holding onto their tail the Clanner’s didn’t have time to regroup or re-arm. With both clusters reduced to below 50% their surviving officer requested Hegira. The mauled remnants of the Dismal Disinherited were at first unwilling to grant this but the SLDF commander on the ground, seeing that the Falcons had backed into very defensible terrain realized that crushing the Clan forces would take time and cost too much blood and accepted.
Colonel Nakambe watched the Clan forces pull back, they were all damaged, all showing signs of the hard but honourable battle they had fought. Their blind fury against the Mercs had saved his command from too many casualties but still, there were many Mech’s that required hours of work whilst the Dismal were just that, in a dismal state, battered and exhausted with three dropships crippled on the ground, one fatally when a crazed Turkina had stormed up a disembarking ramp and opened fire inside. The detonating supplies and ammo had pulped the Mech but the Overlord he’d boarded would never fly again.
“Send word to the fleet, they can contact command and say that New Extford once again belongs to the Lyrans.” While victory had come at a cost at New Extford Kandersteg and Atocongo had fallen to combined SLDF/LCAF forces with far less casualties and damage. In both the Timkovichi and Santana systems the Inner Sphere liberation forces had been stopped dead by the Jade Falcons.
Clan Jade Falcon’s leadership realize that they have over extended themselves and are unable to fight off the Inner Sphere forces. The Jade Falcon Khans call their garrison forces from their periphery holdings effectively abandoning them to the wilds of the periphery. They also allow the Sea Foxes to trial for five additional worlds adjacent to those that the Sea Foxes had seized from the Hell’s Horses freeing up additional Jade Falcon garrison forces for use elsewhere in their Occupation Zone. With recent territory increases the Sea Foxes find that their Clan Touman is over extended and are unable to heavily garrison their planets the trader Clan finds that they do not need to secure their worlds as heavily as the Jade Falcons or Wolves instead allowing their newly acquired planets a little autonomy.
Holding Area, Razor Teeth (Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser)
Arcadia, Wolf Empire
24th April 3103
Along with nearly her whole company Captain Dana Carlyle sat cross legged on the floor on the gravity deck on board the Razor Teeth. Her battle armour team had been ambushed by a group of Clan Wolf Elementals that had raided Rahne striking at the Gray Death Legion. She’d been knocked out in the opening Wolf short range missile salvo and missed nearly the entire battle only coming to as the survivors of her company were forced into the Wolf DropShip and taken off planet. They’d all been informed they were now bondsmen of Clan Wolf. As she sat on the deck Dana focused on the floor she should have remained a doctor she had no right being here she thought as a pair of Wolf boots stepped in front of her. Dana looked up at the massive mountain of flesh and muscle in front of her “I am Star Captain Franklin Shaw you are my bondsmen” he said in a deep voice Dana did not move “come with me” he said still she didn’t move in one rapid movement Shaw yanked her up onto her feet. Around her several Legionaries raised with her Shaw moved faster than she had ever seen anyone move before rapidly striking three of her warriors with rapid jabs and kicks knocking them down.
“NO!” Dana shouted “I’ll come don’t hurt them any further” she demanded immediately Shaw rounded on her with a back handed slap that knocked a tooth from her mouth.
“First rule of being a Wolf speak properly” he demanded as she looked back at him defiantly. He then took a step closer “second rule never make another demand on me.” He ordered “now follow me.” He said walking out of the room Dana glanced at the other warriors of the her company one last time before being led away and into another room. This room was different from the other instead of an open space instead there were tables and a large viewscreen on the wall showing another WarShip “you will be transferred on board the Provider.” He said
“What will I do there?”
“The Provider is our science vessel you will work with our scientists there.” He said his voice softer now no longer speaking as the Wolf warrior.
“I am a warrior” she protested
“But you were trained as a scientist on Terra” Shaw replied “the Wolves can use scientists more than another battle armour operator” he said. “The Provider will be your home for a time we were forced to move our scientists on board the WarShip due to problems with some locals but you will be safe there.” He promised her Dana looked at the WarShip on the screen thinking that perhaps finally she would do what she had wanted to do, what she’d been trained to do even if it was for the Wolves perhaps this was her path.
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Dana on a interesting journey. Naval Battles were nice read, thank you Dragon Cat.
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O0 Nice update!
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Great update Dragoncat and i'm honoured you included my part :)
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Thirtieth Star League Games, Aniversary Event
Solaris VII, Star League Protectorate
Lyran Commonwealth
1st May 3103
The Thirtieth Star League Games begins with Special Anniversary Event on Solaris VII to celebrate thirty years of the Star League Games and forty-five years of the Second Star League before the beginning of the main event. Each nation that has contributed to the Star League Games sends a company or trinary to the event which is paraded in front of the viewing crowds. Following this parade many of the participants in the parade have to be kept apart by the SLDF garrison although no shots are fired between the opposing sides tension remains high. Even as the Star League Games take place the SLDF’s First ComGuard Regimental Brigade remains on guard ensuring no fighting breaks out.
The crowd inside the Star League Stadium know little of what’s going on outside instead they enjoy the martial display put on by the dueling MechWarriors. Fighting inside MechWarrior Vanessa Lexington, of the Lexington Lance Mercenary Command, wins the event piloting her father’s customized Crusader BattleMech. Hours later Lexington’s Lance begins a contract off Solaris VII with the Draconis Combine.
Naval Battle
Victoria, Zilang PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
12th May 3103
Breathing deeply into her air mask Duchess Kym Hasek looked out at the incoming Capellan aerospace fighters; assault DropShips and the WarShip CCSS Zhoushan, a Wudang Jian-class Frigate. Glancing out each side of her cockpit window Kym saw the rest of her squadron of Dagger OmniFighters forming up “all right boys and girls we’re going in you all know the drill we hit the fighters and DropShips and clear the way for the Charles Davion to cause some damage.”
“It’s a shame the Black Prince is at the Nadir point she can cause some real damage!” Jimmy Burke called out
“The Charles Davion will cause plenty damage all by herself if we open the door for them” Kym said as the Capellans charged forward so did the AFFS forces. “Dive and attack Razors on me!” She called out using her squadron’s unofficial nickname the fighters turned on a Capellans. The Razors’ Dagger OmniFighters were both faster and more maneuverable than the attackers but the attackers were more numerous and had heavier armour. Moving in behind a pair of ancient Transit fighters Kym unleashed her fighter’s rotary autocannon peppering the rear of the Capellan craft tearing into the armour between the twin engine nacelles of the fighter focused on her target Kym followed up on her attack by firing her lasers into the Transit exploiting the damage made by her autocannon tearing open the rear of the fighter. As she banked to the left she saw two other Transits burst into flames but the Capellans did not stop instead they continued forward straight at an AFFS Avenger DropShip. The remaining three fighters in the squadron opened fire with their guns hitting the Avenger with three massive long tom cannons.
Even as she turned her Dagger for another pass against the Transits she saw the front of the DropShip peel open as the rounds and the follow up laser fire tore open the hull. The DropShip dived out of the formation still under control but likely out of this fight its attackers, the Transit fighters, continued forward towards the Charles Davion behind them a second squadron of Transits followed through the hole created by the departed Avenger. “They’re going for the destroyer burn these Transits!” Kym ordered opening fire with her rotary autocannon on fully automatic fire tearing open another Transit fighter as it passed by her if the Capellan craft had targeted her instead of focusing on the Davion III behind her it probably could have probably destroyed her OmniFighter. “This is a suicide run…” she thought glancing at her sensors she saw that the Capellan WarShip had remained back trading long range shots with the Charles Davion as the AFFS destroyer advanced. Ahead the first Transits had reached their target pummeling the Charles Davion with point blank long tom fire. The damage did not penetrate the hull of the destroyer but it left nasty scars along her port side the destroyers own weapons cut another fighter out of space even as they turned away. The second squadron of Transits caught between Kym’s fighters and the Charles Davion opened fire on the destroyer as soon as they were able Kym saw a flash of light as the four remaining fighters launched a volley of anti-ship missiles carried along their bellies. Kym hated bombing practice the weight of the weapons slowed her fighter’s response time but these Transits would have barely noticed, they were like flying bricks on the best of days, “Charles Davion, Charles Davion, you have a volley of missiles inbound!” She shouted an unnecessary warning the five hundred-and-twenty thousand ton vessel had more tonnage dedicated to its sensors than the weight of her fighter.
The Capellans it appeared had prepared for the Charles Davion’s sensors, and its defences, moments after the launch of the missiles Kym’s sensors were flooded with missile contacts “what the hell?” She said seeing no further missiles launched from the Transits which were falling to her squadron’s guns. Ahead of them the Charles Davion’s sensors had detected the same hoard of missiles approaching as Kym’s Dagger had and its anti-missile systems had activated lighting up the Davion III against space the close-in protective cannons spat hundreds of bullets into space attempting to knock the fake missile contacts off target. Two of the real missiles were struck by the flak fire in moments the amount of missiles was dramatically cut down but it was too late the remaining missiles struck the hull of the WarShip blowing holes in the armour. A Davion III was designed to take the sort of punishment the Capellans were subjecting it to but not what came in the last missile as it struck the destroyer the missiles nuclear warhead exploded for a moment Kym’s eyes and sensors were blinded by the blast from the missile but as her vision returned Kym could see the result the FSS Charles Davion which had stood proudly a moment before was no more than a burning hulk its hull decompressing as fire tore through what remained. Kym thought she saw an escape pod jettison from the hull but she couldn’t be sure and there was nothing she could do for those sailors. “Break it off!” She ordered her remaining fighters on her sensors she could see more of the Capellans were approaching their position “all remaining fighters and DropShips this is Captain Kym Hasek I’m taking command of all remaining forces” without the Charles Davion to coordinate them they’d be in trouble against the Capellan WarShip at least until the Black Prince could transit from the jump point. “The Capellans have won this round, turn for Victoria; we’ll fight them from the ground!” She she said pulling her fighter away from the incoming Capellan WarShip she hoped that her fighters could reach the planet before the massive frigate and she hoped that the FSS Black Prince didn’t take too long getting back to the planet.
As the Capellans closed on Victoria around the system more Capellan forces moved in capturing the systems of Quirnberton and Fraser as the noose closed around the former Capellan Commonality Capital. Still supporting the Capellans the Taurian Concordat landed forces on the planet of Zanzibar causing more trouble for the AFFS.
Public Announcement, Lyran Commonwealth Birthplace
Arcturus, Arc Royal Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
18th May 3103
The leader of the Lyran Commonwealth of Archon Jessica Steiner to a podium in front of the Lyran Commonwealth’s birthplace on the Chadrik continent of Arcturus, capital of the Lyran Commonwealth. “Ladies and gentlemen today I speak to you as a proud member of this Commonwealth our military forces in conjunction with the Korbin’s Kommandos mercenary command the final known cell of the Brotherhood of Cincinnatus based on Carlisle. Their leader Mason Whyle was captured alive as was Lindon Ashley, the leader of Democracy Now, these threats to our Commonwealth have been stopped by the dedicated work of our people and our allies.” She said glancing down “these criminals will be tried in our courts of law and if found guilty will be sentenced by the people who have been harmed by they actions.” She said the gathered crowd applauded politely. “Today I am also announcing that I have decided that I will be stepping down as an active member of the Lyran Commonwealth Navy, a part of me will also remain with those stars, but my heart has other priorities” she said as the camera panned back it showed the Archon’s growing baby bump “thank you ladies and gentlemen.” She said and the camera was allowed to a fade to black.
Bounty Hunt
Trace, Periphery
29th May 3103
Moving his Marauder II over the plain the Bounty Hunter looked at his Heads Up Display (HUD) his target was in sight. Three days ago the Free Worlds’s League hired Bounty Hunter supported by the Miller’s Mailed Fist and The Thunder Road Mercenary Battalions had landed on the independent periphery world named Thrace. The two mercenary units had moved quickly against the pirate forces overwhelming them leaving their commander, who had run at the first sign of major attack, for the Bounty Hunter. Moving forward flanked by a modified Mauler and an Ebon Jaguar the Bounty Hunter raised his Mech’s heavy arms striking out at the pirate known as Hal the Hammer. Hal piloted a Warhammer BattleMech the classic heavy design of any self respecting MechWarrior with heavy particle cannons, lasers, short range missiles and machine guns.
With his own heavier particle cannons the Bounty Hunter showed the would be pirate king what it meant to have a real BattleMech his Marauder II had long ago been rebuilt with Clan technology and it was more than a match for the old Warhammer. He concentrated on the Mech’s legs burning away armour mounted there the Bounty Hunter immediately followed up with a gauss rifle shot which smashed the remaining armour there and crushed the knee joint on the left leg. With a massive amount of armour loss the Warhammer stumbled forward down onto a single knee. Inside his enclosed helmet the Bounty Hunter smiled impressed that the pilot had kept the Mech off its back. Raising again to its feet the Warhammer returned fire with both PPCs one went high the other slammed into the Marauder II’s right leg glancing at the damage statistic Christopher almost laughed barely half a ton armour little else. “You shouldn’t fight battles you can’t win” he said firing both particle cannons again targeting the same left leg this time both particle cannons burned through the limb severing it above the knee as the seventy ton Mech fell forward it slammed a particle cannon into the ground to stop it falling on its face. Amazingly the pilot was still able to raise his other arm and fire another shot at the Bounty Hunter’s Marauder II the man-made lightning bolt flew over his cockpit. “Stand down” he called out looking down at the prone BattleMech.
“Screw you” the pirate spat back firing another particle shot catching the Bounty Hunter’s Mech on the upper torso.
“Not today” Christopher said targeting the Warhammer’s remaining arm with both particle cannons and his gauss rifle. All three weapons bore through the Warhammer’s armour boring into the Mech’s shoulder and torso smashing the joint and the arm. Under the damage the limb collapsed and without it to prop up the Warhammer the seventy ton Mech fell onto its face unable to move. “You’re going to face who you have harmed” he said.
Hours later the infantry forces attached to The Thunder Road dug Hal the Hammer out of his BattleMech the pilot had committed suicide in his cockpit instead of facing those who he had harmed. Regardless the Christopher Grant’s mission was complete, he’d be paid, his first payment as the Bounty Hunter.
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Nice. While I'm not a big fan of the bounty hunter I like the stories you add in. Its better then just seeing the stuff in some timeline.
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Nice update, good to see the Mailed Fist are now working in the reborn FWL O0
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Just as well I designed the Mercury class to take a licking and keep on ticking if the Copies are breaking out the fireworks.
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An excellent update! :) A vicious battle between the AFFS and CapCon and the new Bounty Hunter scores his first legit job, excellent stuff!
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Woooh! Thunder Road Mercenary company rides again!
So the Lady Bounty Hunter retired, giving the title to Christopher?
Capellans got lucky in their fight with Davions, so it looks like the making of interesting fight.
Thanks for the update, DragonCat!
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Strategy Meeting, AFFS Command
Kathil, Kathil PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
9th June 3103
Around the room AFFS commanders sat and argued their strategies they were using against the Capellan Confederation. “The Confederation has showed at Verlo and Victoria that they will use nuclear weapons against our forces we should do the same and hit the Capellans hard.” Marshal Arthur Weaver said looking around seeing at least some support.
“The First Prince will not support the use of nuclear weapons against planetary targets.” Prince Burton Davion said he was here purely as an observer for his father but his words carried a lot of weight. “But if they continue to use nukes against our WarShips, or strike against ground targets, authorization to use them against enemy WarShips will likely be cleared.”
“I agree with the Prince using nukes should be our last resort” Nathaniel Hasek said looking around the faces of his commanders he saw at least three who looked like they disagreed. “If we can keep them at range and keep our WarShips defended then we should be able to minimize our losses.” The Field Marshal said looking around the table “our forces on Victoria are holding the Capellans.”
“It’s a shame the SLDF won’t let us pass through the Prefecture we’d be in striking distance of Sian and Glasgow that would make Liao think twice.” One of them said
“But the SLDF won’t let us pass” another repeated as if to reinforce the point. The SLDF had surprisingly refused to allow the Federated Suns, a Star League member state, to use the Kittery Prefecture as a base to strike against the Capellans. Leader of the Prefecture Protector-General Devlin Stone had stated that the Federated Suns conflict with the Capellan Confederation was not a Star League conflict and that the SLDF was reforged to minimize the amount of conflict in the Inner Sphere and that his SLDF units would continue to support peace. He had said that should one side, regardless of their Star League status “cross the line” then the Kittery Prefecture would act where that line was Stone refused to elaborate.
“How about we strike at Liao?” Richard Steiner said everyone glanced at the Colonel in surprise, none had expected him to speak up, he was here purely as Nathaniel Hasek’s aide. “We continue to draw their attention to Victoria and its defence but at the same time we strike hard at Liao take it just as we did during the Fourth Succession War force House Liao to stand up and look at us.” He looked around seeing others agreed with him the idea of returning to the glory of the Fourth Succession War resonating with many of them. “We can hurt the Capellan war effort more by taking Liao than any other planet within our reach. We can force the ending of this conflict on our terms.”
“I don’t disagree with you” Nathaniel Hasek admitted glancing at the younger man approvingly “but I’m not sure we have the forces for such a strike.”
“Call on the reserves from the Crucis March and Draconis March” Richard Steiner suggested seeing the surprise on the other face “only until we secure Liao then they go back to their garrisons.”
“And what if the Capellans nuke those troops” Marshal Weaver said “we will leave the Combine and Nova Cat borders at reduced strength. Not only that there there is no guarantee your actions will break the Capellan’s resolve or stop the raids we could be creating a longer conflict.”
“I know this Marshal” Steiner said “however we are spending troops at Victoria and making little progress in driving back the Capellans in fact in many ways we are losing territory. Victoria’s shipyards are gone, its factories we have already stripped as much as we can, if our actions on Liao cause us to lose the world the Capellans will gain an empty shell. If we strike at Liao we could take significant steps forward.”
“He is right we have stripped much of what Victoria had to offer us. The naval battles to date have rendered the shipyards useless permanently, some of our analysts suggest that elements will enter the atmosphere over the next couple of years if we don’t do something about them, Victoria could be a rock that will drown us.”
“Getting enough support to Victoria to convince the Capellans to keep their eyes there could be a problem” Admiral Amanda Watney said she worked for the Federated Suns Logistics Division and Capellan naval forces were making things harder in the system.
“We still hold the jump points forcing the Capellans to use pirate entry points” one said “deploying the Dresari and Sortek to the pirate points would cut the Capellans ability to resupply.” He said naming the two Davion III Destroyers that were supporting the Mercury-class Black Prince.
“Until the Capellans resorted to the use of nuclear weapons then we’d lose two more WarShips.” Fleet Admiral Blaine Webster said finally speaking “sir the navy understands that our vessels could die in the black of space. The Mercury-class could indeed survive a nuclear strike…”
“Just because it could doesn’t mean that it should” Steiner finished with “the WarShips and our ground forces in the Victoria are already a distraction all they have to do is remain in place. The Capellan preoccupation with them will work in our favour.” He said Steiner immediately saw a wave of distaste around the room the FSS Black Prince was the pride of the Federated Suns navy for her to be used as a distraction instead of at the forefront of an operation did not sit well with many. At the same time however he also saw Fleet Admiral Webster looking relieved that the Black Prince would not need to be tested by such a trial of endurance. “However there is something that the Black Prince could do for us…” He suggested knowing that if he didn’t do something the men and women around the table would vote down his plan in a heartbeat, not because there was anything wrong with it, only to save face. Off to his side Nathaniel Hasek nodded quickly hiding his smile of pride “the next resupply mission to Victoria. The Black Prince should escort the supplies and replacement troops to the planet, we can pair her with four Blockade Runners, which should minimize the risk of nuclear weapons, and once she arrives at the planet she can target the Capellan Frigate in the system drive them off and gain our people on the ground some peace.” He said adding things to his plan on the fly wasn’t a necessary plan but it needed to be done to gain support “they don’t need to destroy the frigate just make a very good show. Convince the Capellans that we want to keep Victoria and keep up the ruse just long enough to make Liao a target.” He knew that the other members of the command meeting would want to kill the Capellan vessel but to Richard Steiner it was all to support his plan and to support the conquest of Liao.
Approaching Pirate Base
Holden, Hall
Star League Protectorate
12th June 3103
Weeks of operations had gone to hell in a matter of hours now Lt Morgan Christifori and his lance were running across the surface of Hall smashing through the trees several kilometres south of Holden a long abandoned hamlet which the SLDF believed to be the centre of operations for a pirate band. Chistifori’s company commander Captain Rudolph Blight had gone in with his two lances instead of waiting for the battle lance and their infantry and quickly found himself outgunned by the surprise appearance of an entire company of Mechs supported by several armoured vehicles and missile equipped infantry.
“Move your asses people!” He called to his lance “Bigfoot this is Little Cheese we’re roughly two minutes from your position sitrep!” Christifori called out he hated Blight’s nickname for him, all because of his father, but after hearing some of the other nicknames made up by his CO it could have been worse.
“We’re holding our own we’ve got a tech and weight advantage on them. The vehicles are the biggest problem all hovers; they are trying to get in behind us on our eastern flank.” His commander said
“Kim you and I will jump in. James, Bo you come in strong backing our play.” Christifori ordered thumping down on the foot pedals of his BattleMech. One of the reasons Captain Blight had nicknamed him ‘Little Cheese’ was because of the Penetrator which Morgan now called his own. His father had long ago had the Mech modified with Clan technology giving him an advantage over regular Mechs of the same weight and giving it far better chance against heavier machines. Thumping down on the foot pedals launching the seventy-five ton BattleMech into the air on a trail of flame moments later alongside him Kim’s Thanatos rose on its own jump jets. Below them James and Bo in their ground bound Rakshasa and Marauder BattleMechs would be keeping pace with them through the woods. From his height advantage James saw the battle and saw the hovercraft that were circling behind Blight’s forces were four Saracen hovercraft. Morgan took a risky shot with his left arm extended-range large laser missing his target wildly before his Penetrator started falling towards the ground just before impact he cut in the jump jets once more to cushion the landing. “Saracens unsure on their load-out” he called out preparing for a second jump that would take him into combat.
“LRMs and SRMs or MRMs and SRMs” Bo called out the standard configurations of the hovercraft “either way they don’t have the armour for a stand up fight they are probably going to take a pot shot at the Captain then run for it.”
“We’re not letting them” Christifori said “stick to the plan, Kim on me” he ordered a moment later he regretted what he’d said since both Bo and James were convinced there was something going on between the two. There was nothing going on but because the two other MechWarriors had never advanced beyond puberty it was a source of constant remarks from them.
“Hey Cheese, no consorting with the hired help, you’ve got a legacy to live up to…” Bo called as the two Mech’s jumped into the air. This time Morgan didn’t bother trying any special aerial shots instead he launched the Mech into the battle area landing nearly three hundred metres from the circling hover craft.
“Kim, three and four, I have one and two” he ordered leveling his Mechs two arms. While the Penetrator was a humanoid styled Mech instead of arms that ended in human like hands the Penetrator’s arms were like two long laser barrels. Instantly Morgan thumped down on the trigger sending a single laser shot at both the first two Saracens. Firing so close to a jump resulted in a wave of excess heat flooding into the Penetrator’s cockpit only Morgan’s coolant vest wrapped around his body kept him conscious and functioning in the furnace. Heat was the one major flaw most BattleMechs suffered with even as Morgan fought against it in his Penetrator he saw that one of the lasers had missed completely burning through the air until it dissipated into nothing while the other burrowed itself deeply in the front of the lead hovercraft. The lightly armoured hovercraft couldn’t survive such a hit and it spun out of control and into a rock crashing heavily before exploding into a ball of flame.
Kim’s fire had been more concentrated she’d fired a single laser into the first target then followed up by a medium range missile volley on the same vehicle ensuring its destruction. She’d then launched into the air using her Mech’s jump jets landing closer to her second target to deliver a laser volley from her Mech’s torso weapons array. Christifori could imagine the heat running through her Mech at the moment he hoped her staggered fire approach would mean the heat would bleed off more easily. Regardless both of her targets were down while one of his was still active, but not for long, moments later as Morgan sighted to make a second shot at his other target a long range missile volley from his lance’s Rakshasa ended the Saracen’s life with a series of hits that knocked out the hovercraft’s engine. Christifori glanced at James’ Mech for a couple of seconds considering saying something his pause was long enough for the MechWarrior to jump on. “What you turning all Clan on us Cheese?” James joked Morgan shook his head and tried not to laugh he had a rank and position over them but rarely did he hold them to rank especially when in combat.
“All of you turn and support command lance” he ordered as they turned they were greeted with ringside seats as Captain Rudolph Blight’s eighty ton Mauler BattleMech was beheaded by an enemy particle cannon. The massive humanoid giant appeared to exactly still for a moment, as if the Mech was trying to make sense of what had happened to its human brain, before crashing uncontrolled to the ground.
Although inexperienced their company was disciplined enough for Blight’s second in command Lt Ben Mason to know what to do next. He didn’t waste time in calling out orders showing them all he was fully in command. Morgan Christifori didn’t argue with the man they may be equal in rank but Mason had three years on him and Christifori knew better than to question someone during a battle.
Glancing at the downed Mauler for a moment Christifori turned his guns on a Shadow Hawk BattleMech still struggling with heat he fired a single large laser blast into the Mech’s right leg. The Mech staggered back maintaining its footing despite the large burn down its thigh-to-knee. He followed up with a second large laser shot that burned the Mech’s over shoulder autocannon to slag disabling the lighter Mech’s main gun then jumped his Mech over the lighter Mech striking it with several medium pulse laser blasts. Surprisingly the Mech stayed on its feet during his assault more surprisingly the Shadow Hawk raised its arms in surrender and shutdown its targeting systems “Lt Mason we’ve got one surrendered over here.”
“We’ll take the human Intel Christifori guard that Mech until our infantry arrive. Battle lance take your orders directly from me he ordered. Morgan Christifori hated being sidelined by Mason but he was the closest Mech to the surrendered Shadow Hawk and technically the MechWarrior was his prisoner until the infantry arrived his Penetrator could also use the time to cool down. Watching the battlefield Morgan moved his own Mech behind the surrendered Shadow Hawk ensuring the pilot would not be able to slip away unnoticed and making the pilot fully aware if he did try something Morgan’s guns would be aimed directly at his weak rear armour. The only real way for the pilot to escape now would be to trigger the Mech’s ejection system and hope the chute brough them far from the battle unfortunately for the pilot the countryside all around them was barren and not the best for survival on foot.
Out of the corner of his eye Morgan caught a glimpse of something moving quickly in out of reflex he turned the Penetrator’s turret-styled waist towards the target seeing a thirty-five ton Gurkha charging in with its massive Mech-sized sword raised with no time to raise the arm mounted large lasers Morgan triggered all six torso mounted pulse lasers two missed wildly burning the dirt around the running thirty-five ton Mech but the other four struck home burning away enough armour. Unbalance the Mech cause it to veer to the right as the pilot fought to keep control not looking to engage the Gurkha in close quarters Morgan slammed down on the foot pedals of his Mech raising it off the ground on its jump jets as he did Morgan extended the left leg connecting with the charging Gurkha. The impact was devastating for the Gurkha which was still off balance from the laser attack the physical impact with another Mech was too much for its pilot to control and the charging Mech was knocked to the ground falling on its right side. As the Mech rolled over the ground its right arm, which included the lethal sword, dug into the ground and was torn completely off the Mech’s body. Unfortunately the physical attack hadn’t been good for Morgan’s Mech either the impact had crushed one of the jump jet exhausts causing the Penetrator to come down off balance. Slamming into ground faster than it was designed to the Penetrator’s left leg ankle actuator collapsed under the impact causing the seventy-five ton Mech to stumble forward but fortunately not fall. “Crap!” The young pilot exclaimed seeing the damage the jump jet was destroyed and he wouldn’t be able to move faster than fifty kilometres per hour until the damage was repaired glancing over he saw the Gurkha Morgan saw it had suffered far more and had been unable to rise from its prone position. He guessed that the pilot had been knocked out or the gyro was damaged regardless it looked like the Gurkha was out of the fight.
Looking down at his sensor images he saw that the rest of the company had destroyed five more Mechs and forced the remaining pirate Mechs to stand down hopefully ending the fight. He double checked his sensors and saw that the surrendered Shadow Hawk still where he’d left it. “At least something went right” he whispered to himself in the last three weeks Morgan had fought these pirates four times with this particular battle being the easiest by a long way. He was getting sick of the skirmishes and just wished they could fight a proper battle and just finish it but these raiders seemed to be well supported.
Command Briefing
Filtvelt, Filtvelt Coalition
Periphery
22nd June 3103
“Your people were supposed to be here to help my people Field Marshal instead Clan Nova Cat has seized two more of our worlds and cost the Filtvelt Coalition yet further lives.” Marquees Helen Trempealeau said angrily staring at Federated Suns Field Marshal Daniel Robertson commander of the First Tikonov Cossacks RCT.
“We have deployed our units on Filtvelt, Marielund and Skepptana on each world we have helped your people reinforce their positions and secure you from any attack. We were set here to help reinforce your position it is not my problem that the Nova Cats desire your worlds more than you are able to defend against.” Robertson replied “Marquees even at your current production capabilities and at the buying power of Filtvelt’s banks I do not see how you can counter Clan Nova Cats attacks. You should consider First Prince Davion’s offer of a return to full membership status within the Federated Suns your people have shown that they can stand alone but now it is time you return to the fold. With the Federated Suns full ground and naval support as well as the diplomatic support of House Davion you will be able to turn back the Nova Cats.”
“I have thought little else about the First Prince’s offer” the Marquees replied calmer now closing her eyes thinking “contact the First Prince” she said finally accepting that the Filtvelt Coalition needed help against the superior forces of Clan Nova Cat.
Three days later as Clan Nova Cat forces landed on Fugeres and Marielund Federated Suns’ Crucis March leader Field Marshal Paul Bowman replied to Field Marshal Robertson’s communication just as Clan Nova Cat landed forces on Fugeres and Marielund. With the Federated Suns announcing Filtvelt’s return to the Federated Suns even as the Wild Geese and Vanguard Legion Mercenary Regiments fought a pitched battle alongside the First Filtvelt Militia against Clan Nova Cat. With Filtvelt, Skepptana and Marielund officially Federated Suns worlds First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion speaks to the nation.
“Sons and daughters of the Suns I am First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion. Today I speak to you to announce that the worlds of the Filtvelt Coalition have chosen to return to the Federated Suns. These worlds have stood alone for many years and they prospered, that is until Clan Nova Cat struck them, I now call on these attackers to back down or face the full wrath of the Federated Suns.” He warned knowing that this message would reach the Nova Cats as well. “We will welcome the people of Filtvelt and their armed forces back into the Federated Suns and together we will see these worlds prosper again.” Victor said glancing down for a moment before looking back up.
“While today we welcome Filtvelt back into the Federated Suns, and the Crucis March, I also want to remember the Crucis March world of Kirklin which recently suffered the wrath of Mother Nature.” He said pausing for a moment “despite our best efforts many souls have perished on that world.” He said looking directly at the camera “even as First Prince there is little I can say to make up for Kirklin’s destruction and the lives lost there only that we will remember them.” He continued “in an effort to keep Kirklin in our minds the next Hound-class WarShip produced will bear this planet’s name and the Kirklin Phalanx Regiment will be raised by the AFFS to carry this world’s name, and legacy, into the Federated Suns’ future.
Despite Victor’s warning the fighting on Marielund continued for another three weeks with the Filtvelt Citizens Militia effectively becoming part of the two mercenary commands before they were forced to withdraw from the system surrendering it to Clan Nova Cat. The remaining regiments of Filtvelt’s armed forces the Third Filtvelt Guardians and the Fourth Filtvelt Citizens Militia are accepted as a combined independent command of the AFFS.
Reinforcements
Victoria, Ziliang PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
29th June 3103
The Federated Suns Naval units had made contact with the initial Capellan units nearly an hour ago the Capellan aerospace fighters had assaulted them before fading back towards Victoria. Now their second wave of attackers were closing on them. “Admiral the four DropShips supporting the Zhoushan are the Scarab, Vickers, Lexington and Chimera.”
“They are ours!” Admiral Armin Sviatchenkoat snapped in reply naming the four Overlord A3-class DropShips that had been on Victoria’s planetary surface when the Capellans landed. “What the hell are our own DropShips doing with those bastards?”
“The Capellans must control the primary spaceport” Sviatchenkoat’s executive officer Scarlett Bryne said in response “communications have the Blackstone and Islington divert to alternate landing zones” she said naming the two conventional Conquistador-class DropShips following them. Between the two ships they carried all the AFFS reinforcements that would be heading to the planet while the other vessels, the four Blockade Runners, which remained in close formation to the FSS Black Prince would target the enemy aerospace units.
“Have all four Blockade Runners target the Overlords kill them” Sviatchenkoat ordered “forward guns target the Zhoushan with the forward battery then turn us hard to port and hit them with a broadside. All conventional guns against aerospace fighters have our own fighters remain close for fighter and missile defence.” Sviatchenkoat ordered now it was a waiting game his orders made. The Conquistador Blockade Runners turned heading towards the enemy Overlords CCAF and AFFS aerospace fighters struck out at each other in the distance between the opposing WarShips.
“Forward battery activated” one of the weapons officers called out “Zhoushan targeted, main weapons firing in three, two, one” he said counting down at the front of the WarShip the heavy naval gauss rifles and heavy particle cannons mounted there fired almost as one. Propelled almost at the speed of light the gauss rifles and particle cannons momentarily linked the two WarShips across the smaller Zhoushan the weapons tore open the nose of the Frigate causing massive damage. As the Black Prince turned her naval autocannon broadside was unleashed even as the frigate’s weapons responded against the massive Mercury pitting the Black Prince’s thick hull armour.
“We have inbound eight capital missiles the A3s unleashed everything they had on us they’ve ignored the the Blockade Runners with their first volley! Anti-Missile systems active, our aerospace forces are moving to engage!” Another crewmen called out.
“Blackstone is moving out of position what the hell are they doing?” Byrne reported from her chair watching the Conquistador move out of the Black Prince’s shadow “no…” she whispered realizing what they were doing. The Blackstone intentionally turned into the path of the incoming capital missiles opening its cargo bay as it went releasing tons of ammunition and spare parts intended for the ground forces creating a massive cloud of debris in front of several of the missiles. One capital missile tore through the formation of debris only to be knocked off course by an exploding long range missile ammunition crate. The second and third missiles slammed into the Blackstone in an instant the DropShip, all the remaining missiles and more than a dozen aerospace fighters were wiped from existence as both missiles nuclear warheads exploded.
The explosive wave from the explosions washed over the Black Prince burning the ships armour and weapons as the massive battleship plowed through the explosion. Alongside the Black Prince several of her escorting aerospace fighters flashed through the fire withstanding the damage and remaining with their carrier but many others were now missing. Deep inside the vessel within the command centre the crewmen darted from console to console monitoring damage. Unlike the popular tri-vids there was no sparks from the consoles or flying crewmen from the explosions instead the crew continued to monitor the situation as the Black Prince continued on its course. “Several weapons out, minor injuries reported on several decks and we’ve lost contact with at least twelve fighters” one officer reported glancing at his screen “maybe a couple have lost communications but most of them are just gone.”
“We’re not going to let them do that again.” Sviatchenkoat said loud enough for all his crew to hear “have our Blockade Runners kill those DropShips and release all of our aerospace fighters to kill theirs I don’t want a single nuke to get near us. Aft batteries finish the Capellan WarShip as we turn” he ordered watching the holo-tank in front of him as the Black Prince continued its turn the aft naval particle and autocannons tore through the remains of the Zhoushan shattering the frigate’s core destroying the WarShip. Admiral Sviatchenkoat leaned back into his chair trying to ignore the two gravities of acceleration the ship was sustaining during its turn. “Contact the Islington and tell her that she can head to the planet and slow us down allow the medics to move around and help our injured.” He said the battle was not over there were still Capellans out there fighting and they could face attack from the planet’s surface but Sviatchenkoat wanted his crewmen taken care of while there was a lull in the fighting.
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Heh, the FedSuns are very active this June. I like the longer, more in-person flavor of this month too. Also, just realized how large (at least physically) the FedSuns is compared to it's neighbors.
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Great update Dragon Cat, lots of heavy fighting between the Suns and the Cappies.
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Battle Line
Hall, Star League Protectorate
8th July 3103
He’d wanted a battle and now a battle was what he was getting Morgan Christifori thought as an autocannon raked over his Penetrator’s hull the shells striking his seventy-five ton Mech doing armour damage but little else. Tracking the enemy Mech to the right hand side Morgan trigged all three left torso medium pulse lasers burning into an enemy Sentinel the forty ton BattleMech staggered under the fire barely remaining on its feet as it continued to run. Even as Morgan turned to follow the lighter Mech his anti-missile system activated cutting down half of an LRM barrage fired from an enemy Griffin. Of the remaining missiles only two slammed into his Mech’s left torso. “So you want to play with a bigger dog?” Morgan whispered rising his Mech’s left arm firing the large laser there completely missing the lighter Mech “just as well I have two” he said raising the right arm firing his other laser. A wave of heat rushed into the Penetrator’s cockpit Morgan fought the heat rise even as his laser blast burned over the smaller Griffin. Even as the medium Mech stepped back it fired another salvo of missiles Morgan’s AMS cut down several of the missiles but a remaining few peppered the Penetrator’s left arm. Morgan stomped down on the pedals of his Mech launching the heavy Mech into the air, the big Mech flew straight into the path of the Sentinel, still fighting the rising heat the Penetrator landed heavily staggering forward. The medium Mech opened fire with its arm mounted autocannon cutting a trail of shots over the Penetrator’s torso and head. As he was was knocked around the cockpit from the hit consoles sparked and shrapnel flew loose striking Morgan’s left shoulder. Morgan screamed from the pain as blood spattered over the consoles from the wound “this is Christifori I’m hit!” He shouted the warning into his helmet mounted microphone he tried to ignore the pain pulling the trigger linked to his pulse lasers half of them missed completely.
Off to his side short range missiles from the Sentinel flew out striking the right hand side of the Penetrator the explosive force launched Morgan’s Mech off to the side. Fighting the pain from his arm Morgan twisted the heavy Mech’s torso following the movement of the Sentinel triggering the pulse lasers. The pulsed weapons crossed the distance between the two Mechs in an instant cutting deeper into the Sentinel’s light armour the damage staggered the Mech causing it to trip and fall. “One down” he commented pulling the trigger again cutting into the downed Mech “and out” he said as his sensors showed the Sentinel’s right leg had been amputated by his second attack. Even as he celebrated the Griffin attacked again hitting his Mech with its particle cannon burning more armour from the left leg. “Is anyone else receiving me? I need some support” Morgan called out looking down at his console his systems were transmitting but it seemed that no-one could hear him. Fighting the pain and the Griffin Morgan launched his Mech into the air on its jump jets once more trying to disengage the lighter Mech was faster than his Penetrator and with its particle cannon it would allow it to remain in range. Even as Morgan tried to disengage missiles flew past the heavy Mech as the Griffin continued to attack. Morgan fought to stay conscious, as his wound continued to bleed, turned the Penetrator again towards the Griffin right into a particle cannon shot which tore into his Mech’s right torso disabling all three pulse lasers there. “Go to hell!” He screamed levelling both of his Mechs arms at the enemy Mech triggering both large lasers at the same time. The two beams momentarily linked the two Mechs as one laser burned over the left leg while the second laser burned over the right torso knocking the Griffin back. Unable to control their Mech under so much damage the Griffin seemed to trip backwards falling onto is back. “We’re not done yet” he said firing both lasers again into the fallen Mech even as Morgan’s fight with consciousness was lost these two blasts cored into the Griffin’s head and torso killing the Mech’s pilot as the Penetrator, with the unconscious Morgan inside, fell to the ground immobile without the control of its pilot.
Around the downed Penetrator the battle raged for nearly thirty minutes as the rest of Morgan’s unit, without the use of communications, fought against nearly a company of pirates who refused to give up. This was to be their last battle on Hall throughout the conflict on the planet the pirates had tried to avoid an open battle but this time they didn’t have that option. With the SLDF dedicated to the destruction of the pirates who had violated their territory the pirate force was completely destroyed in the battle ending the threat on Hall.
After the battle Morgan Christifori, still injured and unconscious, inside the Penetrator was recovered with Morgan credited with kills on both the Griffin and Sentinel due to his heroic actions on Hall Christifori is promoted to the rank of Captain in the Star League Defence Force.
Interstellar News Network
INN Studios, Geneva
Terra, Star League Protectorate
17th July 3103
“Ladies and Gentlemen welcome to Geneva to this is an around the Inner Sphere special with me Klaus Ebenhaeser” the male host said as the lights in the studio slowly raised revealing the two broadcasters in a spacious studio standing near a holographic representation of the Inner Sphere. He was in his early thirties and dressed in a simple business suit without the tie and with the top buttons of his shirt open.
“And me Caroline Franks” his co-host said she had brown hair with blonde highlights and was dressed in a bright blue summer top with dark trousers. “Tonight we start with an evolving story from the Capellan front” she said as the map zoomed in looking at the Capellan Confederation. “For the last few months an escalating conflict has brewed between the Capellan Confederation and the Federated Suns with the Capellan Confederation pushing to recapture the system of Victoria while the Federated Suns continues to defend and counter attack. While the Star League Advisory Council has tried to bring peace between these two nations the Capellan Confederation has continuously rebuffed our efforts. Instead they are intent on pursuing this conflict by any means possible which so far has included the use of nuclear weapons against Federated Suns WarShips.” She said as the camera turned back to her co-host. “As a result the SLDF has announced the formation of another regimental brigade in the Kittery Prefecture to ensure the fighting does not spread into our protected systems.”
“Yes indeed the Star League Defence Force is dedicated to promoting peace throughout the Inner Sphere but it has promised that should it come to an open conflict it will protect its systems from anyone who attempts to bring conflict to these worlds.” Klaus said agreeing her point “overall the conflict has boiled down to attack and counter-attack with the two sides contesting the Victoria system. On the ground the Capellan Confederation has steadily gained ground while the AFFS have gained control over the space around the system.” Klaus Ebenhaeser explained as the holographic display changed to an image of the planet Victoria. “According to an INN source Duchess Kym Hasek, a member of the Federated Suns Armed Forces, was recently shot down in a skirmish with Capellan forces our sources believe that Duchess Hasek has been airlifted off Victoria and is en-route to Kathil.”
“In related news the Taurian Concordat’s military forces have been seen in action supporting the Capellan Confederation. As the Taurians are a member state of the Star League Defence Force pressure is mounting on them to withdraw from the conflict or face trade sanctions from the Star League. SLDF Intelligence places recent Taurian troop movements in the Federated Suns systems of Brockway, Carmichael, Lindsay Midale and Defenbaker engaging in combat against the defenders.” Caroline said continuing the piece as the hologram returned to the wider map showing several planets along both Capellan and Taurian borders of the Federated Suns.
“Meanwhile in the Lyran Commonwealth it would appear the enigmatic Bounty Hunter has continued his quest against the pirate and criminal elements that have plagued the region in recent times.” Klaus said as the holographic display changed once more now showing a green painted Marauder II. “In what has been described as a brutal assault the Bounty Hunter led four other Mechs in a morning assault against Blackburn’s Devils on Baltazar III destroying the Devil’s hideout and almost an entire company of mercenaries who had been hired to defend it. Once the operation was complete the Bounty Hunter reportedly delivered Tess Blackburn’s head to the Lyran appointed governor of Baltazar III.”
“Staying in the Commonwealth we’ve also received reports that the Stone Spirits have attacked the system of Swatkip in the Commonwealth’s Inarcs Theatre.” Caroline said almost immediately trying to put the thought of someone’s head in a box out of her mind “throughout the Star League-era and the Succession Wars Swartkip was a repair and supply point for traders, explorers and the military with its extensive array of DropShip and JumpShip repair stations. For years the system has been protected by a regiment of the Lyran Regulars however recent combat losses against the Stone Spirits and transfers to other borders have seen these defences shrink to as little as a battalion of inexperienced men and women.” She said as the image between her and Klaus was replaced once more this time with an image of a Zeus BattleMech with the Lyran Regulars insignia on its leg and chest. “Knowing their specialist facilities would make them a target for raiders the people of Swartkip along with the worlds of Main Street, Engadine and Elume put their resources together to hire the Chaos Irregulars Mercenary Battalion to supplement their defences.” She said between them the image again was replaced this time by the insignia of the Chaos Irregulars, a planetary eclipse.
“With half of his forces, co-commander of the Chaos Irregulars, Colonel Jake Chowla defended against a Stone Spirit attack by deploying his BattleMechs directly onto the hulls of several space stations while the rest of the Irregulars defended the planet’s surface under the command of Colonel Ariel Peregrine-Simson. It is believed that the Irregulars lost nearly half of their forces defending Swartkip but that they have captured at least as much in battlefield salvage turning back the Clan force.” Klaus explained describing the events which had transpired in the far flung star system.
“And finally” Caroline said smiling “it appears that we are not the only citizens who should be afraid of the Clan menace” she said pausing as the image displayed the Clan Occupation Zones with each of the five Clans that resided there represented in different colours; green for the Jade Falcons, a dark blue for the Sea Fox Clan, lime for the Hell’s Horses, brown for the Coyotes and finally light blue for the Rasalhague Dominion. “Over the last month Clan Jade Falcon has lost control over five separate systems to Clan Hell’s Horses.” She said the two clans were highlighted with their Clan crests appearing inside their representative occupation zones “since the Jade Falcons last attempted to expand into the Lyran Commonwealth they have lost territory to Inner Sphere forces, Clan Sea Fox and now Clan Hell’s Horses. It would appear that the Clan has over extended its reach and now even it’s claimed capitol system of Sudeten is threatened by capture from another Clan.” She said as the systems five Coreward of Sudeten turned the lime colour of Clan Hell’s Horses and became part of that Clan’s area of control.
“For all the latest news stories or for further information on the stories we have covered tonight please subscribe to the INN information service.” Klaus said moving on from the stories “INN is dedicated to bringing news stories to all of the Inner Sphere and beyond without bias. Come and join us and show you support the truth. I am Klaus Ebenhaeser…”
“And I am Caroline Franks” his co-host said with a curt nod to the camera.
“And this was the Intersteller News Network” he said finally “thank you and good night.”
Medical Ward, Provider (Volga-class Transport)
Helm, Wolf Empire
23rd July 3103
On board the Provider there was a hive of activity as casualties of the recent fighting were brought in. It had started with a simple mercenary raid against the Wolf Empire the Wolves had rebuffed the attack. The Wolves had retaliated against the Daniel’s Avengers positions on Helm and Tania Austrails. Initial combat against the mercenaries had gone well but then something had gone wrong and now the halls of the Provider were filled with injured soldiers and civilians. In a darkened corner one Wolf MechWarrior stirred to consciousness “where am I?” He asked he was still dressed in his sweat soaked t-shirt and shorts his left arm and leg were heavily bandaged but the man didn’t seem concerned with that instead his right arm raised towards his eyes “why can I not see?”
“You’re safe” Dr Dana Wolf said stepping closer to the bed “you are on board the WarShip Provider, your eye sight will return in time.” She explained pulling his arm back down to the the bed.
“You don’t sound like a Wolf” he said noticing her accent and her easy use of contractions.
“I’m not a Wolf, not by birth anyway” she explained “I was born Dana Carlyle I was born to lead the Grey Death Legion.”
“Dezgra mercenaries” he replied dismissively “easily crushed under our heel.”
“Like the Avengers were? Quineg” she demanded using the Clan word carefully the man didn’t reply “you know I chose not to be a warrior? I chose to be a doctor I chose to help people.”
“How did you end up here?”
“Sometimes life plays cruel tricks” she said administering a pain killer to the MechWarrior. “I had a responsibility to others of my command I chose to honour those responsibilities” she explained “and almost straight away I ended up captured and back in the job I wanted to do.”
“Life has a funny way of treating us” he said his right hand drifting to his left arm finally finding the bandages “how bad was I damaged?” He asked almost mechanically
“Your arm and leg were both badly burned in the explosion but both will recover, you will recover fully. You will be able to serve your Clan again.”
“Our Clan” he reminded her
“Yes MechWarrior our clan” she replied
“Do you know if we were successful on the ground?”
“Aff” Dana answered “after a fashion” she said seeing the confusion on his face “a chemical plant exploded after it was hit by stray weapons fire. The Galaxy Commander contacted the mercenaries and made a deal. They would be allowed to leave this world and Tania Australis while we would take care of its people.”
“The stavag mercenaries fired on that plant to end the conflict?”
“Neg, it was a stray Wolf artillery round that cause the damage” Dana said correcting him “nearly fourteen hundred men women and children so far have been treated. I believe that number will triple before the end of tomorrow by the end of the week that number will again triple.” She said the chemicals which had gone into the atmosphere were lethal to humans trueborn or freeborn it didn’t matter and the winds would bring them in contact with every population centre on the planet and there was little anyone could do about it.
“Sometimes life plays cruel tricks” he said repeating her worlds “my name is Marc.” He said finally introducing himself.
“I read that on your chart” Dana said coldly
“I am sure you did Dana Carlyle” he said turning his head towards her there was little chance that his eye sight had returned yet but his eyes seemed to pierce through her. “But hearing the person say their name is how one gets to to know a person.”
“Yes it is Marc” Dana said smiling in reply “rest now MechWarrior your Clan will need you soon enough.” She said turning away from the bed.
“Will I see you again Dana Carlyle” he asked using her full name again.
“You never know” she said leaving the Wolf to rest.
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O0 Nice update and I like the INN part! keep it up!
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Excellent update, and loved the varying stories from across the Sphere. It seems that the Falcons basically gutted their coreward worlds of everything to support their massive offensive and the Horses have seen this and taken advantage of it. The threat to Sudeten though is something the Falcons CAN'T ignore, as its their main supply point for Mech's in the Sphere.
So now they are caught between two fires, the opportunistic Horses and the Lyrans and SLDF, which way do they turn?
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The INN was an interesting way of commenting on some stories.
Morgan seems to be following in the footsteps of his father. O0
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I'm glad you enjoyed the INN report my idea was to give a snapshot of the Inner Sphere without showing a bunch of different scenes the news of course puts their own spin on it adding a little random element to the story.
My thanks to marauder648 and James Tanaga for some help with the Hyde and Hiberus parts
AFFS Invasion
Liao Commonality
Capellan Confederation
11th August 3103
In a coordinated effort AFFS units strike at Styk, Pleione, Poznan and Gan Singh each of the worlds is targeted by two AFFS or mercenary units supported by FSN WarShips. Supporting the units of the Capellan March the Second New Avalon Guards RCT, Third Robinson Strikers LCT, the First New Ivaarsen Chasseurs LCT and the First Dragonlords Regiment all assist in the assault on the four worlds. For the first time in years units from the Draconis March are involved in combat against the Capellan Confederation destroying an entire battalion of the Holdfast Guard on Gan Singh and the Ninth Liao Lancers on Styk.
Two days after the initial attacks the Fifth Syrtis Fusiliers RCT, First Davion Guards RCT, the Fourth and Ninth Crucis Lancers RCTs supported by the FSS Pegasus, a Columbia-class Battleship, the FSS Gold Archer, a Robinson Block III-class Transport, the FSS Jerome Davion and FSS Samuel Davion, both Avalon Block II-class Cruisers, assault Liao. The three of the WarShips were supported by half a dozen assault DropShips and hundreds of aerospace fighters as they faced off against the CCSS Sian, a Tikonov-class Carrier, and the CCSS Nikos, a Feng Huang-class Cruiser/Carrier, and their attached air wings as the ground forces, escorted by the FSS Gold Archer, streamed towards the surface intent on attacking the defenders.
Although the Capellans had an advantage in the numbers of aerospace fighters the AFFS WarShips had more capital guns giving them an overall edge. While the ground forces dropped directly on top of the defending Dynasty Guard, Renshield’s Dragoons and the Fourth Capellan Defence Force Regiments engaging all three commands at point blank range.
On the ground across the battle-line explosions rocked BattleMechs as the two opposing Succession States fought several miles south of the City of Desu. In his brand-new Templar III OmniMech Prince Burton Davion fought with the other members of the First Davion Guards turning to the right he cut into the side of a Dynasty Guard Emperor with his assault Mech’s chain whip. The huge chain whip swung around the side of the Emperor smashing the armour mounted there Burton immediately followed up with his Mech’s array of torso mounted pulse lasers not waiting to watch three of them burn across the Capellan design he kept his Templar moving accelerating using its supercharger. Behind the Templar III as the Emperor twisted its torso attempting to track Burton with its autocannons and lasers nearly three dozen long range missiles and several large laser blasts struck the Emperor blasting through the armour and the leg structure smashing the limb knocking the mighty ninety tonner to the ground. The Emperor’s autocannons tore up the ground near the Mech's feet as it fell towards the ground while lasers and autocannons from the other AFFS Mechs around struck the Emperor tearing open the assault Mech.
Prince Burton Davion was already moving forward launching his Mech into the air on its jump jets firing the torso mounted particle cannon into a Raven BattleMech. The man-made lightning bolt burned through the cockpit of the smaller Mech and the Prince had already moved onto his next target a sixty ton Po armoured vehicle. The Mech’s stealth armour masked it from his Templar III’s sensors but the Prince ignored his sensor and the Po’s autocannon tearing into his armour instead charging up to the tank swinging his Mech’s right arm mounted hatchet down on the turret of the Po. The force of the hatchet’s attack split the Po’s turret as the weapon buried itself deeply in the armour. Burton immediately followed up with his attack with the torso mounted pulse lasers which burned deeply into the tank’s armour.
Behind Prince the AFFS rest of the troops struggled to keep up with the heir to the throne who was already moving on from the crippled Po to another Capellan target as it appeared nothing the defenders fired at the Templar III seemed to be able to stop it. To everyone on the battlefield it was obvious that Prince Burton Davion was making a statement that he was more than just his father’s son who would inherit the throne he was also a more than capable fighter. With aerospace fighters in the air overhead the Prince continued to fight against the Capellan forces routing them over and over.
Nearly three hours after their initial landings the AFFS had secured a beachhead on the planet with the Capellan defenders in disarray. Despite the victories of the Federated Suns attackers and their charging Prince none of the defending commands had been destroyed. In orbit the CCSS Sian, CCSS Nikos and FSS Jerome Davion were drifting hulks broken by enemy fighter attacks and naval weapons fire. The remaining ships the FSS Pegasus, FSS Samuel Davion and FSS Gold Archer were all still operational but they burned from enemy attacks including nuclear detonations on or near their hulls. All around the WarShips was wreckage and bodies from the WarShips, aerospace fighters and small craft destroyed or disabled in the naval battle. The initial battles for control over Liao were over the war to win the planet had just begun.
Conflict Line
Hiberus, Rim Collection
Periphery
19th August 3103
“Ladies and gentlemen, I am Clint Goldberg reporting for the Interstellar News Network; today we are embedded with the First Rim Guards CCT on Hiberus. Yesterday morning elements from the First and Second Rim Lancers CCT under the command of Galaxy Commander Andrew Brecht landed on the planet officially to assist Hiberus in defending against a spate of pirate attacks that have struck the system.” The reporter said from behind a barricade. “The leadership on Hiberus has stated that the Lancers presence is purely a ploy by President Karen Able to bring some of her style of authority to Hiberus.” He said looking around the camera followed where he was looking at either side of the barricade there were entrenched BattleMechs, Armoured vehicles and infantry. “Until now the Lancers have remained at their DropShips on the outskirts of this city the commander of the Rim Guards Galaxy Marshal Mandy Hall, relative to Congresswoman Megan Hall, has said she will order her troops to open fire on any of the Lancers who attempt to enter the capital or any of the Guards bases.” Again the camera panned over the troops this time finishing looking down the street across from the entrenched guards.
“Here we go” Goldberg said as a Marshal BattleMech stepped into view the medium Mech was painted in the colours of the Rim Collections Lancer Clusters. “We’re tapped into the Guard’s communication grid. Everything you hear coming up will be between the warriors of the two sides we have no control over what is said.”
“This is Andrew Brecht of the Rim Collection’s First Rim Lancers we are here to assist in the defense of Hiberus. I have orders, from the President and the Preident’s Council, for my unit to garrison this world in accordance with the Collection’s National Defense Act.” He said his Mech standing at ease opposite the defence line.
“The Hiberus national government and the leader of Hiberus Megan Hall have stated on numerous occasions that Hiberus does not need assistance from offworlders to garrison our home.” The guards commander replied gruffly.
“You will need our assistance as the Second Rim Guards are being redeployed by order of the President” the Lancer officer said as more vehicles and BattleMechs stepped into view. “Hiberus joined the Rim Collection when you became part of a greater whole. The government that you answer to is passing orders you will answ…” he said his words trailing off as the galaxy commander’s sensors detected a weapons lock from one of the Guards Mechs “you don’t want to do this” he warned the Marshal and the other units behind it taking up a more defensive stance “we are on the same side. Lancers no-one, and I mean no-one, fires unless I order it.” He broadcast on an open channel “this does not have to happen” he warned.
Suddenly there was a massive explosion but not from any of the Mechs instead the camera panned into the air and onto descending Fortress and Titan DropShips. As they descended several BattleMechs lept from their Mechbays falling to the ground using their jump jets to slow down before landing. Suddenly between the two Rim Collection military units stood a massive ninety-ton Blood Asp OmniMech painted in the colours of Clan Fire Mandrill on the OmniMech’s left knee was a unique crest. “This confrontation between the Lancers and Guards has been interrupted by Clan Fire Mandrill” Clint Goldberg said “ladies and gentlemen if you are just joining us we are on Hiberus embedded with the First Rim Guards CCT.” He said explaining what was happening “a confrontation between the Rim Guards and Rim Lancers seemed inevitable but that has been interrupted by the unannounced arrival of Clan Fire Mandrill.
“This is saKhan Jonathan Banacek of Clan Fire Mandrill to the collected forces of Hiberus I bring with me the First and Seventh Striker Clusters and my Ash Keshik. My Warriors and I have been authorized by my Khan to stop any conflict on this world by any means necessary.” The MechWarrior said the Blood Asp flexed its massive arms and torso slightly over one shoulder was a massive autocannon while both arms ended in what looked like a type of large laser. From two side streets additional BattleMechs bearing the crest of Clan Fire Mandrill could be seen making their way to support the saKhan.
“You have no right being here” the commander of the Rim Guards said angrily her troops moving their attention between the Rim Lancers Mechs and the Blood Asp.
“I have every right Clan Fire Mandrill became part of the Rim Collection. Under the agreement made by our Clan and the Rim Collection we can react to anything we deem a threat to our Clan’s survival. Civil conflict between factions of this nation threatens our Clan and we will not allow that.”
“The President is power crazed…”
“Hiberus threatens our security…” the two began to say simultaneously.
“SILENCE!” Banacek said interrupting them both “you are the guardians of the Rim Collection act like it. Galaxy Commander Andrew Brecht, your Warriors return to your DropShips until tensions are lowered. Galaxy Marshal Mandy Hall, get your men and women off the street and back to your base.”
“You cannot order us around” the Guards commander replied the Fire Mandrill saKhan did not reply in words instead the Blood Asp’s torso twisted towards the Guards position levelling its weapons behind the saKhan and all around them further Fire Mandrill units had flanked the Guards defence line.
“I will not repeat myself” the saKhan said as the transmission cut out.
“Ladies and gentlemen” Clint Goldberg said breaking in as the camera continued to look at the Blood Asp “it would appear that Clan Fire Mandrill have a lot more say in what happens in the Rim Collection than anyone ever thought before. Today we have seen the Clan faction stop a civil conflict before it started. Tomorrow could we see a Fire Mandrill leader of the Rim Collection or a new occupation zone? The Lyran Commonwealth and the nearby Erdvynn Province must look into the Rim Collection and wonder exactly what is going on inside their neighbour’s borders. I am Clint Goldberg of the Interstellar News Network, thank you for joining us on Hiberus tonight; we will keep you up to date on this evolving story.” He said finally as the camera focused on the Rim Collection troops who were moving off to either side finally the camera focused on the Fire Mandrill Blood Asp once more before the camera faded to black.
Flaming Monkey, Overlord C-class DropShip
Hiberus, Rim Collection
Periphery
20th August 3103
It had taken almost forty-eight hours but finally the two opposing commanders of the Rim Lancers and Rim Guards sat opposite each other. Both had insisted in taking with them an aid and neither had relinquished their weapons. As a result saKhan Jonathan Banacek had placed a point of five Battle armoured Elementals around the room. The Elementals had been ordered by Banacek to eliminate all four of the Rim Collection officers if things got out of hand.
“Yesterday should not have happened” Banacek began once he realized the Rim Collection officers were not going to break the silence none of them replied “you are the guardians of the Rim Collection you need to act like It.” He said berating them slightly.
“We have the right to defend our homes if threatened it is a signature feature of the Rim Collection’s charter agreements.” Mandy Hall replied angrily
“Which is why we are here, to protect all of the planets of the Rim Collection” Andrew Brecht said passionately believing what he was saying “it is Hiberus paranoia that almost brought us into conflict nothing more. President Able wishes for all planets of the Rim Collection to be fully committed to our nation and to each other. Hiberus needs to learn to trust us all.”
“Trust is hard to come by when you have been alone for so long.” She said referencing the years that Hiberus had survived as a sustenance level colony isolated from trading routes and the HPG communication grid fending off against pirate attacks with armour and infantry as their only defence.
“We were all alone once and we all have to accept change.” Jonathan Banacek said “I was a Star Adder, I was then a Sphinx Raptor and I am now a Fire Mandrill warrior but I am also a Rim Collection citizen. We are no longer alone.” He said swallowing that thought for a moment he was a Clansmen and unlike those who had been born into the Fire Mandrill Clan he had a very set direction he believed his Clan should follow. He wanted his Clan, the Rim Collection and everyone else to know about the direction he through they should take his entrance to the would-be battle on Hiberus had been a statement of intent. For now he would play his Khan’s game and play nice with the Rim Collection but the future would see his Clan rise to greatness once more.
“I will agree to move the Second Rim Guards to the posting the President’s Council has ordered” Mandy Hall said reluctantly. “The First Rim Guards have been asked to take a tour through the Edvynn Province” she said looking between Jonathan Banacek and Andrew Brecht seeing neither disagreed with him “they have recently had a lot of trouble from pirate forces, possibly Lyrans in disguise or possibly something else, perhaps we can convince them that standing alone is not the best course.” She suggested the other two men nodded their agreement.
Several hours later the Second Rim Guards began packing up their equipment and personnel preparing to withdraw from Hiberus. A few days later the Fire Mandrill’s 300th Sentinels Cluster arrived to replace the saKhan’s Ash Keshik and supplement the defences on the planet. The 300th’s mission on Hiberus would be to watch how the Rim Guards and Lancers left on the planet reacted to each other and ensure no trouble broke out. Finally a week after the reorganization of defences began on Hiberus the First Rim Guards lifted off the planet outbound to the nearby Edvynn Province.
Battle-line
Hyde, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
22nd August 3103
The hypersonic slug of a gauss rifle round slammed into the ground and gouged a trench six meters long, mud boiling and steaming from friction of the rounds passing before the round finally was halted. They’d advanced rapidly against the Lyran defenders but to Captain Gilles Ravel this felt all wrong. While the Isle of Skye had broken into the NAIS bunker on Hyde it hadn’t been used by the AFFS in more than twenty years. The NAIS officials had called for revenge against the Isle of Skye and the DMI had been far too ready, in Gilles opinion, to charge into a fight.
“I’d say they have found the range wouldn’t you?” Leftenant Erik Wilkinson said his Longbow standing nearby.
“Shuddup Erik, keep an eye on your HUD.”
“Yes Cap.”
The night sky was lit by blue, red and green flashes of laser and particle fire. The bright yellow of autocannon tracer rounds and the orange/red of missile exhausts as AFFS troops in their ‘borrowed’ machines closed in on the lab they had been sent to destroy. The defenders, elements of the Third Isle of Sky Guards though were not giving an inch.
“Bravo this is Delta, should be getting good targeting telemetry now.”
“Roger that Delta, keep moving, don’t let them get a bead.”
“Just bring the rain Bravo.”
There was a small hiss as the covers for the Naginata’s three fifteen tube Long Range Missile Launchers snapped open, the C3 computer talking with the missile launcher, uploading data at a ferocious rate.
“Alright open fire!”
The fire support lance of a Naginata, Longbow and Witworth began volleying missiles at the distant Lyran Mech’s, the dull roar of the launchers in the cockpits of the machines in no way justifying the violence they were unleashing.
Even though their targets were obscured Delta, a dedicated recon lance was feeding them targeting data, the white flashes in the distance coming thick and fast as the volley found its target.
“Target right!”
“Got him boss!”
“Nail that son-of-a-bitch!”
***
Kommandant Valka, battalion commander of the Third Isle of Skye Guards Second Battalion, grinned as he watched one of the attackers machines get caught square on, the Mech, a Cataphract was being torn apart by sustained fire from his Command lance but still its pilot somehow kept the Mech on its feet despite its right arm being all but severed at the shoulder and fire boiling out of the shredded chest.
An electronic bleep told Valka what he needed to hear and he pressed a button on his Hauptman’s right HOTAS control. The massive Ultra 20 autocannon let out a long sustained BRRRRRRT! The two machines momentarily linked by fire before the Cataphract simply came apart, the ammo finally cooking off as the 70 machine simply ceased to exist above the hips, its death blast throwing the area into stark relief for a few brief seconds.
“Herr Kommandant.”
“Go Kaptain.”
“We’re being hit hard, they’ve got some C3 units pinning us down, we can’t move out without getting god knows how many missiles fired at us.”
“Understood, hold there and don’t let them near the bunker!”
“Jawhol Kommandant!”
With a Company to hold the ground and their comm’s jammed against a considerable number of attackers Kommandant Valka was glad for his infantry support and that the rest of the Regiment was on its way. ‘Hold until relived’ simple enough.
“Have these bastards ID’d themselves yet?”
“Not yet Sir, just a lotta Cappie and Snake machines and tank support, about a battalion’s worth.”
“Hauptmann Wolfe’s tanks are engaging them.”
That made the Kommandant grin, someone in their wisdom had put a quartet of Gurtelier’s with the Regiment little more than two months ago, the four tanks were dug in near the bunker with the infantry and would be a great anvil.
“Alright, move out, relaying checkpoint Quebec.”
“Target! Dragon, range…six thirty seven!”
“On!”
There was a hydraulic whine as the turret turned slightly, the gun elevating, the heavy CLUNK-THUD of a round being chambered into the Poland Gauss Model A Gauss was followed by the whine of the capacitor drawing from the reactor, building up a charge in three seconds.
“Up!” An odd phrase, one from Terra’s past used by tank crews to indicate their main weapons were ready to fire.
Peering through her sight Hauptmann Wolfe looked at the glowing thermal image of her target even as it spat a bolt of particle light at them. “Fire!”
Her gunner, Private Luis stomped down on the firing pedal and both, linked into the tanks damn advanced and achingly expensive FCS hammered back the fire they were reciving.
“Hit!”
“AMS Engaging!”
“Ours or the bunkers?”
“Both!”
“Up!”
“FIRE!”
***
In the air above the battle Leftenant Mokate grunted as he pulled the stick back hard and to the right, throwing his ‘borrowed’ Mengqin into a hard right turn, his ‘bitching betty’ warning system nagging about a missile lock, the rear mounted small pulse laser automatically tracking and engaging the SRM’s that the computer detected would come close.
“Get this…rhhnn…scum off my ass! Where’s our bloody top cover?”
His fighter’s rear facing radar and cameras showed the Thunderbird; some variant that dropped the LRM’s and went for Streak’s SRM’s straining to follow his move, the pilot caught out by the sudden sharp turn of his opponent.
Before the big Lyran bird could bring its nose around another fighter slotted into its six and let rip, the Lyran fighter bucked and jerked as the Slayer’s lasers and auto-cannon chewed and melted armour on its port wing and the Lyran bird fell away trailing smoke.
“Sorry boss got a bit busy.”
“Alright…Theta, drop in low and hammer those damn tanks! Our boys are counting on us so hit them hard and hit them often!” Viewed from above the battle lines were a confused mess, intermingled Mech’s hammering away at each other in one area, others had Mech’s blazing away at targets they could only see on their sensors as faint heat blooms and vague outlines.
***
It took a further three hours for the Federated Suns forces in their disguise to finally breach the bunker complex that was their target, with two of the Gurtelier’s burning outside the main entrance and the other two withdrawn with heavy damage. With the area secured a mauled Akuma smashed the doors in with a heavy kick allowing their infantry and Special Forces to enter the facility.
“WHAT!?”
“It’s virtually empty Sir…there’s a couple of pallets of equipment marked for delivery to Defiance Industries that’s it, otherwise it’s been stripped.” The trooper said again as they moved through the facility, there should have been an entire DropShip’s worth of experimental cargo inside the facility. And not it appeared that all the technology had been removed to Hesperus II or some other Defiance Industries research station.
A static blurt muffled the assault commanders anger as he turned the air blue in his Mech’s cockpit.
“Say again Sir…you broke up.”
“I said all forces withdraw… Call in the DropShip we need to get off this rock.” He ordered the remaining Isle of Skye forces were closing on them and this mission was not a suicide mission and they could not be captured. One of the bean counters back in the Federated Suns could figure out if the costs they’d paid today had been worth it and if taking on Defiance Industries was really in their interest.
AUTHOR NOTE: Yes Burton's piloting a Templar III B with a hatchet and chain whip why because it one of the cooler designs in TRO 3145 and it sounded a lot of fun
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Excellent stuff Dragoncat, and thank ya for including my wee drabble.
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And here I was thinking that Burton was just getting kinky.
Nice battle for Liao, that should get the Cappies attention. O0
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Another good update to the AU.
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Medical Wing, Steiner Royal Palace
Arcturus, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
9th September 3103
Archon Jessica Steiner and her husband Admiral Patrick Doyle become parents for a second child as Isla Steiner is born at the Steiner Palace on Arcturus. With the death of their first child Blaine Steiner and with Jessica Steiner’s recent decision to step away from active service in the LCAF she hopes to be able to concentrate fully on her daughter’s care and development.
While the Lyran Commonwealth celebrate the birth of an heir to the throne the LCAF also have something else to celebrate. Since 3094 the Lyrans had been in possession of an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser which they had discovered crippled in the Sweet Water system. The Aegis had previously belonged to Clan jade Falcon and gone missing in 3087. Sweet Water itself was inhabited by the passengers and crew of the Aegis and since their discovery the Lyrans had worked with them to turn Sweet Water into a prosperous colony world. At the same time the Lyrans had worked with the former-Jade Falcons to repair the vessel enough to move it from the system and finally their work had paid off. With a flash of light the Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser Sweet Water, formerly known as the Blue Talon, left the system heading for the Alarion system.
Briefing, District of Oriente Wing
Atreus, District of Marik
Free Worlds League
12th September 3103
On the Capital of the reformed Free Worlds League Duke Jonas Halas listened to his five military advisors as they sat around the planning table. Duke he mused for a moment he was Captain-General of Oriente the guardian of fifty-nine worlds, billions of Free Worlds League souls, the supreme commander of nineteen regiments and eleven WarShips. But under the agreement of the reborn Free Worlds League he like the leaders of the other Free Worlds League Districts could hold a position no higher than Duke only the elected Captain-General could be refered to differently. But that was not what was being discussed today.
“The recent Capellan Confederation attempt to retake Liao was unsuccessful with the CCSS Kali Liao completely destroyed during the assault while their ground forces were turned back from the planet. During the attack the Capellans were able to destroy the FSS Samuel Davion which had been damaged in the first battle of Liao.” Admiral Benjamin Summer said briefing Jonas Halas before retaking his chair.
“Our analysts believe that the Capellans have stripped the majority of their house troops and mercenary forces from the worlds of Vertabren, Suzano, Asuncion, Krybacken and Zion leaving minimal defences.” General Stormy Hutton said standing replacing the Admiral. “We believe there is heavy fighting on Zion and Krybacken as the AFFS attempt to break House Liao’s supply lines. While the mercenaries on Asuncion have indicated to our operatives they do not plan on being destroyed trying to keep House Liao’s fading war effort going.”
“So you both believe that our forces can overwhelm these five worlds with minimal losses?”
“With the WarShips Ipswich, Cole Harbour and Kearny in support we will be able to move against the Capellans without disrupting our other WarShips.” Summer said “the Santorini Battle Group can remain at New Delos and provide support if required.” He said naming Oriente’s only Thera centred group of WarShips.
“We can send two regiments to each planet without damaging our defences. A combination of our own and mercenary forces” Hutton said “if the rumours regarding the mercenaries on Asuncion are correct we should have an onsite reserve force immediately.” His confidence was catching but it didn’t take much to catch Halas’ attention or convince him to cause damage to House Liao.
“Go” Jonas Halas said after thinking for several moments “we strike and we strike hard.”
Three weeks later the District of Oriente strike at the systems of Vertabren, Krybacken, Asuncion, Suzano and Zion. As expected on Asuncion the mercenary regiment Bret’s Bombardiers accepted they were outmatched by the Oriente troops and agreed to turn over the planet of Asuncion as long as Oriente provided them with transport well beyond the Capellan borders. The commander of the attack on Asuncion General Ryan Deveraux personally promises the mercenaries that he will arrange for them to travel to the Galatea Station. Vertabren, Krybacken and Suzano fall quickly to the Oriente troops who are dedicated to the swift conquest of the systems.
The only real resistance comes on Zion where a three way fight breaks out between the Fourth Fusiliers of Oriente, the Capellans Third Capellan Defence Force and Irregular House Davion forces led by the McKinnon’s Battalion and Avanti’s Angels Mercenary unit. For nearly a full month fighting occurs between all three sides with none able to put down the other forces. During the fighting the people of Zion take up arms themselves intent on defending their own people if necessary they are able to commandeer the local HPG and call for assistance from the SLDF.
In early January 3104 Star League Defence Force help finally arrives in the form of the First Knights of the Inner Sphere Brigade and the WarShip SLS Invincible, a Tharkad-class Battle-cruiser. Although the Knights of the Inner Sphere have been out of combat operations for a while the sheer numbers the brigade brings to the system are able to bring an end to the fighting with Zion officially joining the Star League Protectorate.
With Oriente and the AFFS units withdrawing from the system the remaining commanders of the Second Capellan Defence Force find that their regiment had been abandoned by the Capellan High Command and that no unit would be sent to recall them. While the SLDF offered the warriors of the Second a place within the SLDF the Capellans are aware that their unit would be split up instead Sang-shao Matt Blackledge negotiated with the SLDF for passage to Galatea Station, turning over a battalion of stealth armoured Mechs and vehicles to the SLDF to pay for the rest of the unit to make it, on Galatea Station they would form the mercenary command Blackledge’s Iron Hand.
Loading Dock
Sheridan, Wolf Empire
22nd September 3103
There was many things that Dana Carlyle had expected in life but one thing she hadn’t expected was moving medical equipment onto a DropShip for Clan Wolf. Nor had she ever expected to be treated with so much contempt from another human being. As she moved the equipment from place to place one of Clan Wolf’s finest stood guard watching her not lifting a finger to help instead he barked orders to Dana and the other staff members of the Provider.
After moving what seemed to be the thousandth box into the DropShip Dana headed back into the warehouse entering the room she immediately felt an arm around hers turning her around and into a darkened corner. “Hello Doctor” the deep male voice said before planting a kiss on her lips.
“Marc?” Dana said pulling back from him “what are you doing here? I didn’t even know you were on the planet!”
“Well I didn’t know you were here either.” He said easily using the same contractions she did they had spent a lot of time together during his recovery on board the Provider. The trueborn MechWarrior had done exactly what Clan warriors were not supposed to do he’d felt something for a freeborn.
“Bull, there’s no way you didn’t know I was here.”
“Do you have to use so many contractions?” He asked he sounded irritated but ended up his question with a smile showing he wasn’t that annoyed. “So maybe I knew you were here and maybe I volunteered to escort this supply run just in case I bumped into you.”
“You came looking for me” Dana stated teasing a little “why?”
“Honestly I wonder that myself” he admitted “but I was drawn back to you.” Marc said “seems we have a connection that I do not really understand.” He said kissing her again
“Connections of the heart rarely make sense” she admitted kissing him back “you are going to get me into trouble with our slave driver…” she said glancing out the door not seeing the warrior who was guarding them.
“I gave him some time off” he explained “and I might have told the others to take a break, would not want to harm their delicate hands.” He said kissing her hand.
“So we have time…”
“Yes a little” he said their little time turned into several hours of time in the warehouse and in Marc’s nearby ground car. They then returned to their duties serving Clan Wolf surprisingly nothing was said to Dana when she returned to work instead there was more being said about the warrior who had been guarding them. He’d been found unconscious in a dark corner covered in locally made alcohol apparently with no memory of what had happened Marc’s “giving him a break” she guessed. She had no idea what Marc was up to or if she’d see him again for now all she could do was get back to work loading the DropShip ready to return to return to duty on board the Provider with a memory of what had happened on Sheridan.
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Excellent stuff as always, seems love can bloom eh :) Also the Cappies must be sweating a bit now, with the FedSuns and FWL nomming up systems.
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O0 nice update!
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Thank you again, Dragon Cat!
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The Cappies just letting a regiment go like that.
They really must be having problems. O0
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The Cappies just letting a regiment go like that.
They really must be having problems. O0
Not really letting go more cut off - the unit felt abandoned and now its got a far longer life ahead of it...
Update for the weekend
Planning Rooms, Capellan March HQ
Kathil, Kathil PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
5th October 3103
“ATTENTION!” One of the security officers called out from the door across the planning room officers that were standing turned to face the call while those that were sitting sat straighter. Walking through the various officers and screens Duchess Kym Hasek entered the command room she was walking with a cane as she continued to recover from her injuries sustained in the crash on Victoria. At the table Field Marshal Nathaniel Hasek stood beside Colonel Richard Steiner, her husband, Richard watched her move through the room and he could see the differences in her walk.
“Welcome back to Kathil Duchess Hasek” Nathaniel greeted as Kym stopped and saluted.
“Thank you Field Marshal” she replied as the two men saluted her she like Nathaniel she spoke loud enough for the officers in the first level of officers to hear.
“Welcome home” Richard said she gave him a strange look for a moment before answering.
“Kathil may be where we will command our military but it isn’t my home. New Syrtis always will be.” She answered Richard had lived here since the Uhlans had almost been destroyed fighting the Capellans their son Andreas was here and she would be stationed on Kathil for the the duration of her recovery but Kathil would never be her home. “What’s out status?”
“As we predicted with our core forces directed to the conquest of Liao our forces have had to retreat from Victoria.” Nathaniel Hasek said glancing at Richard Steiner, it had been the young man’s plan to strike at Liao thinking it would break the Capellans but it seemed there was still some fight in the Confederation.
“We also believe we will lose Jacson and Yuris within the next month.” Richard added again the two worlds were already highlighted green it wasn’t a huge surprise to lose the two worlds the Capellans had been raiding them for months and even with the significant support from the navy if the ground forces didn’t withdraw the AFFS would likely lose the units stationed there.
“To add to our troubles the Concordat have launched attacks on Rollis and Corodiz” Nathaniel added Kym Hasek felt the pain of each loss almost as much as when she’d been injured on Victoria.
“How far back could they push us?” She asked looking down at the map below although Nathaniel Hasek was the ranking officer in the Capellan March and Richard technically outranked her Kym was still the Duchess of New Syrtis and it was her March.
“We suspect that we will lose Bromhead, Carmichael, Horsham and Mendham by the end of the year” Richard Steiner said highlighting the planets which extended from the Taurian Concordat border to the Capellans. “If the Capellans and Taurians continue to work together we may lose systems as far as Ridgebrook by the end of 3104.” He said highlighting another five systems.
“Is there any good news?” Kym said feeling a little hollow at the thought Richard’s plan had netted them Liao but they’d lost so many more systems.
“Now that the District of Oriente has hit the Capellan Confederation’s flank Prince Burton Davion is using his success on Victoria as a springboard.” Nathaniel Hasek said changing the map to show the other side of the Capellan Confederation. “Forces under his command have struck at Shensi, Hunan, St Andre and Shipka.”
“What is the level of Capellan resistance?” She asked looking at the map
“Significant” Richard replied “in the Hunan system the FSS Ardan Sortek sustained significant damage to Capellan fighter attacks while the Wild Geese lost two DropShips fighting their way onto St Andre. We believe that the mercenary’s commander was killed on one of their DropShips.” He said “the Lexington Combat Group have also taken heavy damage defending Lee from a Capellan counter attack. While the militia's of Moravian, Cammal and Monhagen have all reported increases in Capellan raids.”
“They are aiming for Kathil” she said looking at the worlds that had been attacked. We seize Liao and they retaliate by aiming for here. They want to cripple the Capellan March.”
“What they should be doing is aiming for Burton Davion’s units the Prince is the one on the move.” Richard said frustrated it had been his plan to push the Capellans from Liao instead of trying to hold Victoria. He’d given up any hopes he had of travelling to Liao to personally lead the offensive but now he wished he was there instead of on Kathil.
“So what you’re saying is that despite the fact that we’ve bled as much as Burton Davion and that is was the Capellan March’s actions in seizing Victoria in the first place that gave us this opening that Burton Davion will claim all the glory from this operation?” Kym asked sharply she wasn’t frustrated instead she was angry.
“Duchess” Nathaniel Hasek said butting in his use of her title showing his intent to get her to look at things from a bigger perspective “that is not what is meant by what Colonel Steiner has said. As Richard quite rightly points out Burton Davion is taking it upon himself to push the Capellans beyond the goals of the original operation. His forces are driving back the Capellans for now and so if the Confederation was smart they would strike at Burton instead of us.” The Field Marshal explained
“Indeed” Richard said agreeing with the older man “instead they are continuing to assault worlds around Victoria intent on driving us back and trying to make us believe they’d try to attack Kathil.”
“You don’t think they will?” Kym asked more civily this time with a small apologising smile.
“No” Richard “Kathil is too heavily defended we some of the Federated Suns best ground and naval forces available not counting the reinforcements we could call. At present they think we are rolling back from Victoria but if they went anywhere near any of our core worlds they’d find out exactly what we have in reserve.” He said drawing his hand over the worlds near Victoria “if we’d tried to hold those systems we’d have lost most of the regiments based there.” He said bluntly “we all knew that when Liao was selected as a target. Any Capellan commander that takes a minute to think about it will realize that much.”
“But will the Chancellor?” Kym asked “in the meantime what’s out plan?”
“We continue to be the distraction” Nathaniel said “while the Prince hits the Capellans from one side we hold the Chancellor’s attention and if necessary we give up a couple of systems” he said seeing Kym’s distaste for the idea. “But in doing so we’ll break the Confederation if they keep pushing us.”
“And if they stop?”
“We’ll still hold Liao and it will be in a far more secure place than Victoria ever was.” Richard said confidently bringing a full smile from Kym. The Capellan March and the Federated Suns had the Capellan Confederation under control. The Taurian Concordat’s recent attacks were worrying but the AFFS could deal with them once they had out lasted the Capellans.
Announcement
Aether, New Quarter
Fronc Reaches, Periphery
12th October 3103
The screen came up slowly showing a man with greying hair a black blazer jacket and a blue/black checked shirt with the top button open. “Ladies and Gentlemen I am Governor Ellis Von Danzuch leader of Aether. Today I speak to you as a man with a broken heart but one who is determined to do what needs to be done. Over the course of the last few months my world has seen its defences stripped to the bare minimum as the Taurian Concordat attempts to prosecute an illegal war against the Federated Suns, another member of the reborn Star League. Our leader Protector Erik Martens-Calderon is being drawn down the wrong path by military warmongers who believe that we can match the Federated Suns. Ladies and Gentlemen I am sorry to say that we cannot” he said glancing down at his feet for a moment before looking back up “the Federated Suns can and will return our attacks and when they do they will destroy our military as they have done repeatedly for centuries. The Taurian Concordat should concentrate on defending the worlds it currently commands instead its border worlds have been abandoned. I have learned that Portland, Sananda, Argos, Carthage and Hellespont have been treated like Aether their defences stripped and their mercenary support reassigned.” He said again looking to the floor before looking back up to the camera “so over the last three months we have collectively reached out for support and found some from the Fronc Reaches.” He said glancing to the ground for a third time before returning his gaze to the camera “so with a broken heart it has fallen to me to announce that the worlds of Aether, Portland, Sananda, Argos, Carthage and Hellespont are withdrawing from the Taurian Concordat and joining the Fronc Reaches. Together we will form the New Quarter of the Fronc Reaches and we will take our new state to new heights progressing with the colonial expansion and combined defence effort that turned the New Colony into the Fronc Reaches. We pray that the Taurian Concordat leadership will see our succession not as a rebellion but instead as one intended on turning the nation around and back to the core values that made the Taurian Concordat great.”
Joslyn Armstrong, Vulcan 6-class Defence Station
Wildwood, Magistracy of Canopus
Periphery
23rd October 3103
Most systems of the Inner Sphere and Periphery lacked any sort of space defences Wildwood had been lucky to purchase a Vulcan 6-class Space Station from the Twin Sons system of the Free Worlds League’s District of Lesnovo. Nightly the fifty-six crewmen monitored the jump points while the space station’s six aerospace fighters patrolled the area around the four thousand ton station. Wildwood was rarely visited by passing JumpShips but its position close to the disputed territory between the Magistracy and the Marian Hegemony meant the people trusted the crew of the Joslyn Armstrong to defend them.
Commander America Park reclined on the chair in the command centre listening to the systems of her space station as she read a delightful romance novel which had arrived from Canopus. It was by one of her favourite Canopus based authors Marg Bunbury and followed the story of an intrepid Magistracy Armed Forces aerospace fighter pilot who fought off enemies of her home while falling in love with a dashing JumpShip commander. Suddenly alarms sounded in the command centre as the the station's sensors detected multiple incoming vessels. “No… no, no, no” she whispered releasing her pad which floated away “wake up Riccardo” she said looking over at the other person there the younger man woke up with a start “we’ve got trouble!”
“Marians?” He asked
“If it is they’ve gotten something really big” America answered as there was a massive flash of radiation and light. Suddenly a huge one thousand four hundred-and-five metre long McKenna-class WarShip entered the system “oh my gosh” she whispered looking at the huge vessel it was painted in the same deep greens used by the Star League Defence Force but it lacked any form of insignia to indicate where its loyalties laid. Moments later there were four more flashes behind the WarShip as four Tramp-class JumpShips joined the battleship.
“Jesus” Riccardo said “look at her she looks like she’s been through hell” he said looking over the McKenna her hull was blackened by scorch marks and pieces of the hull were completely missing. “We’re receiving a hail” America nodded and he activated the communications system.
“This is Captain William Robert Raphael Leroy-Dietrich the commander of the Subtlety Profitable Training College of Military Arts to Magistracy space station we mean no hostile intent.” The man’s voice announced “we request passage through the Magistracy of Canopus we will remain on station until Magistracy authorities arrive in system. Any hostile action against the Subtlety or any of our JumpShips will be met with the use of the maximum force available to our WarShip. She might look like a wreck but I promise you looks can be deceiving.”
“We’ve got aerospace fighters in the air” Riccardo said watching his screens several tiny aerospace fighters had launched from the McKenna’s battered green hull.
“We need to speak to the planet and to Canopus” America Park said watching the massive battleship unfurl its jump sail behind it the JumpShips were doing the same they'd be here for a while.
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O0 Wow! Nice update! Nice to see the Political fall out for the TC and a new group with a McKenna class Warship!
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Where does a 'Training College' get a McKenna?
Should be interesting finding out.
Cheers for the update DC.
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Subtlety Profitable Training College of Military Arts
McKenna-class WarShip and 4 Tramp Jumpships
Interesting college, I wonder who runs it
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Awesome update but who the hell are the Subtlety Profitable Training College of Military Arts and how on earth did they get a Mckenna O_o
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It originally came from here
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=45738.0 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=45738.0)
But has a few changes
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I was scrolling up to read the posts, first thing i saw, zeroing in.
to Canopus” America Park
.
First I Think is . o O ( ''There a America themed fun park on Canopus?'' )
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It originally came from here
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=45738.0 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=45738.0)
But has a few changes
Interesting thread.
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Things are very interesting on the Fed Suns Eastern Front this year (and, of course, last year as well). Sounds like a hammer is readying to fall on the Capellans, I wonder if they have overextended themselves - I've done the count and they've (re)captured 15 worlds and serious fighting is still happening on Sirdar. Meanwhile the Fed Suns have captured 7 and look to gain another 4 shortly. Free Worlds League captures 4 from the Capellans and the Star League 1.
The wildcard Taurians seem to be doing well on their end too, with a capture of 10 systems to a loss of 6, and while the 10 systems are likely of higher quality than the losses, that the losses are not from combat is quite telling as to the state of the Concordat.
Looking forward to seeing more.
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Life Fire Testing Grounds
South of Houston, Borghese
Arc Royal Theatre, Lyran Commonwealth
2nd November 3103
“Scientist you have a strange sense of live fire testing” Star Colonel Tim Lassenem said smirking looking at the engineer who had accompanied them to Borghese. They had landed four hours before and barely made a single move towards the planetary capital instead they had marshaled their forces giving the defenders plenty of time to prepare their defence.
“It is the best test of these units” Scientist Ayer said “the Lyrans and their mercenary scum will not be prepared for our little surprise.”
“These units are very important to our Clan’s development Scientist” Lassenem said raising the binoculars to his eyes as the Hell’s Horses units moved forward a single Star of Mechs, a star of quad battle armour and two stars of wheeled vehicles.
“I know how important they are it was our people who helped build them.” He said as the Hell’s Horses engaged the Lyran and mercenary defenders. Immediately Tim Lassenem could see the Advanced Tactical Missiles mounted on the Solace Light Missile Tanks open fire. Between the ten vehicles two hundred-and-ten tactical missiles flew from their turret mounted launchers blanketing the Lyran troops. Under their fire the Buraq star ran in twenty-five quad battle armour suits unleashing their own missile attacks on the enemy.
“Magnificent” Tim Lassenem said watching the attack unfold even as the five Parash BattleMechs closed on the enemy Arrow artillery missiles flew over the top of the units after being fired moments before from the Hadur Fast Support vehicles which had remained nearby along with the rest of their forces. As the missiles landed around the Lyran forces causing yet more confusion the Parash Mechs stepped into the battle firing their large pulse lasers.
“We are reading several equipment failures” Ayer said looking at his screens.
“They are engaged in combat I am not completely surprised” Lassenem said watching the battle unfold from this far was not what he would have preferred to be involved in the battle but it was not his time.
“These failures are not only being caused by Lyran fire” Ayer snapped angrily drawing a look from the Star Colonel “I apologies” Ayer said immediately not looking up from his screen “we have lost three points of Battle Armour and the weapons on four of the Solace.” Ayer reported
“I can see that” Tim Lassenem said watching as a gauss rifle slammed into one of the Parash BattleMechs. Although the slug did not appear to penetrate the Mech’s armour it staggered backwards away from the enemy the Mech barely remaining standing “what is wrong with them?” He demanded watching as another Mech recoiled almost as if it was in pain after being struck by a laser blast.
“It is the enhanced imaging!” Ayer said looking at the data “the feedback is far worse than we expected.”
“Fix it!” Tim Lassenem ordered the flustered scientist.
“I can’t not right now we need to evaluate the data” Ayer said looking up “today has helped us we can perfect these units in time.”
“So your team can use the data to complete our designs?” Lassenem asked waiting until the scientist looked up at him. The scientist realized the Star Colonel was furious with him Ayer quickly nodded. “Good then your service has been appreciated” he said drawing his sidearm and quickly shooting the man in the head. Lassenem looked at the other scientist who stood nearby “this experiment is over recall your troops before you lose them all.” The Star Colonel commanded raising his radio “First Horde Cluster do your duty and finish the job.” He said all along the battle-line BattleMechs, vehicles and Battle Armour of Lassenem’s Cluster moved forward as one opening fire with missiles, particle cannons, lasers and autocannons.
Reeling from the initial Hell’s Horses assault the attack of the First Hoard Cluster was far too much for the Lyrans. The First Horde Cluster tore through the Fourth Commonwealth Guards, the militia troops and the mercenaries arrayed against them the Cluster’s warriors eager to show that they should have been allowed to complete the world’s conquest without the little scientist experiment. The First Horde MechWarriors and Elementals had been at the heart of the Mongol Doctrine that had taken hold of the Hell’s Horses Clan and they let loose their anger on the defenders. As they overran the Lyrans the First Horde went through the battlefield from downed Mech-to-Mech, vehicle-to-vehicle slowly ensuring that every defender was dead. As an example to the planet’s population Star Colonel Tim Lassenem personally saw to the deaths of the planet’s civilian leadership.
Raider Assault
New Home, Star League Protectorate
12th November 3103
The Avanti’s Angels mercenary battalion surface on New Home supporting Baron Shienze, an employer from early in their career. The combined-arms force stays true to their reputation going on the assault against a pirate force which had been causing problems for the planet’s local Guard Regiment. On the battlefield for the last time Colonel Marcus GioAvanti marshals the mercenaries to victory from his Cestus BattleMech leading from the front Major Michelangelo GioAvanti, Marcus’ son, leads the Angels main force during the battle cementing his leadership of the mercenary battalion.
Planning Room, Night Talon (Nightlord II-class Battleship)
Morges, Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
20th November 3103
Khan Ruel Chistu stood looking data screen at the Horsemaster, an HH-class Yardship, as it moved closer to the crippled Silver Talon. The Nightlord II-class Battleship had lingered in this system for far too long and it was needed in the Jade Falcon Touman. Behind him saKhan Jana Pryde stood near the planning table.
“We’re over-extended” Jana said looking at the table
“Damn your contractions speak properly” Ruel demanded looking back over at her Jana Pryde was a young woman full of life and fire her short blonde hair arranged evenly around her face.
“We’re over-extended, we are over-extended, it does not make an ounce of difference our Touman has not grown enough to match the territory we have. Even with the territory we have traded to the Hell’s Horses for the use of the Horsemaster we need more combat units. The fighting on Blumenort, Sargasso, Biuque and Wroclaw is sapping more of our strength. From what I have read about the front-lines we’re unable to capture either of Biuque or Wroclaw just a waste of resources.”
“Sigma Galaxy has completed its transition into becoming a Front-Line unit while Tau Galaxy is almost operational.” Ruel Chistu countered watching the Horsemaster complete its docking with the crippled Battleship.
“We need to increase production of BattleMechs and Battle Armour and we need to get Omicron Galaxy operational.” Jana said frustrated slamming down her notputer the Jade Falcon Touman was stretched thin even graduating this year of Falcon cadets and accepting a record number of armoured vehicles into their Touman they were struggling to control the populations under them.
“The Sea Foxes have approached us again” Ruel Chistu said he knew their production stats and that the Sea Foxes wished to take control over Roadside and Kooken’s Pleasure Pit adding to the territory they had taken control over recently. “We could use the equipment they are offering…”
“We could” Jana Pryde agreed “rumours suggest they have approached the systems of Wotan, Golandrinas, Bone Norman, Barcelona and Newton Square. They are picking over all the worlds that we have released in recent years.” Jana Pryde said disgusted at the thought that the Foxes were even looking at those planets she’d have happily seen them die away.
“Who cares” Ruel Chistu said finally turning around from the screen “we need the assets they want a pair of worlds I care nothing for!” He said his temper flaring.
“You seem to have made up your mind?” She asked calmly
“And if I have?” Ruel Chistu challenged “do you wish to try and change my mind?” He asked stepping closer to her he was big a big warrior for a MechWarrior and could be very intimidating but she was faster. In a blink of an eye the young saKhan had her legs wrapped around the Khan but not in attack instead her lips quickly found his in a deep embrace. They had been involved when Ruel Chistu was a Star Colonel and Jana Pryde a young firey Star Captain it was purely physical but they both liked physical. With her legs locked around him Ruel Chistu moved the Khan quickly slamming her against the bulkhead wall Jana Pryde moaned “well he probed looking at her.”
“No I’m not going to you will be getting rid of two planets we don’t need” she answered as he turned her back towards the planning table the saKhan’s body sending papers flying.
“Your damned contractions” Ruel Chistu commented
“Horrible aren’t they?” Jana Pryde said leaning forward opening the top of his uniform jacket. Over the next few days the Sea Foxes moved forces onto Roadside and Kooken’s Pleasure Pit a few weeks later Wotan, Golandrinas, Bone Norman, Barcelona and Newton Square the Jade Falcons paid little attention to the Sea Fox moves instead they benifitted from nearly three clusters of Mechs, armour and battle armour and continued to have secure shipping lanes through Sea Fox controlled space.
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This scene is particularly big and needs its own post. It came originally from marauder648 who came up with the idea of the battle and provided most of the work I just played about with it and expanded it. So my thanks to marauder648
Operation Doolittle
Sudeten, Pirate Point between Sudeten and the moon Saar
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
23rd November 3103
The Werewolf flashed into existence, her Lithium Fusion battery already charging up to jump in an emergency as the WarShip’s main drives fired. If somehow anyone missed the massive thermal radiation flare of the ships arrival, no one missed what came next as it was broadcast across the entire system.
“Attention defenders of Sudeten and Warriors of Clan Jade Falcon, this is saKhan Declan Kerensky of Clan Mountain Wolf, I bring with me three full Clusters of Mountain Wolf troops as well as the WarShip Werewolf we challenge you for possession of your resources, your Mech’s and Sibko’s. With what forces do you propose to defend your Capital World and dare to face the jaws of the Wolf?”
“You and those of your ilk are little more than dezgra Mercenaries, if you want our world we will face you with everything you have. Not one mongrel will live to see the sun rise!”
The link terminated with a static hiss and Kerensky grinned broadly, turning to the Werewolf’s commander. “I guess that means we will not be granted Safcon, launch the dropships and aerospace fighters, I will be with our forces on the ground, I leave the naval battle entirely in your control.”
“Status change! We have pre-emergence neutrinos!”
“Distance?”
“One million kilometres off our port bow.”
Conducting an in system jump the CJF Falcon’s Nest, a Texas-class Battleship, and one of only two left in known existence made her entrance in a white flash, her engines already firing, DropShips detaching.
“You had best get to your Dropship; we will hold them off and engage any targets of opportunity.”
Kerensky nodded and then saluted “Happy Hunting Star Admiral Scott Conners.”
The three Wolf Overlord C’s burned hard towards Sudeten, the Werewolf fighters flying top cover as well as the Isegrim Smaug that was already firing at distant targets with her sub-capital missiles
The three Overlords hit the ground, their ramps spilling forth Mountain Wolf Mech’s issuing their challenges to the Falcon defenders as they formed up and moved out. Fighters from the Werewolf were busy guarding the ship so it fell to those of the Titan Carrier Hercules’ Strength to watch over the ground forces whilst the Smaug clawed her way skyward on pillars of fusion fire to join the battle overhead.
Landing eighty kilometres north of the Capital city the Wolves moved out en-mass whilst the Falcons scrambled to meet them, alert klaxons blaring in dozens of Mech Hangars and in the fortifications surrounding the Olivetti Works.
---
Onboard the Werewolf the Wolf gunners were enjoying the targeting practice against the Jade Falcon installations and shipping. “Target in range!”
“Fire!”
Brilliant blue beams of particle fire blazed through space, melting the thin hide of Forge 12/Q, a largely automated refining plant for endo-steel. The structure, many thousands of tonnes in mass came apart, disintegrating as its structural integrity failed; brief flashes of fire marking where the particle bolts had ignited the stations atmosphere
“Range to the Falcon’s Nest?”
“She is entering extreme range for our guns now and is turning to bring her broadside to bare on us!” One of the Wolves called out
“Match her course, have the Smaug and Garm stick close to us and provide anti-missile protection, guns rip her open!”
---
As the two goliaths fought over the space around Sudeten with naval weaponry below on the planet the Wolves and Jade Falcons engaged each other with smaller but no less deadly weapons.
“Falcon scum you face Star Captain Iwona Chistu! Step forwards and meet your death!” Oh sure she KNEW she was hamming it up, perhaps she’d watched that Spheroid children’s cartoon a bit too much but still.
“Missile lock. Missile lock. Missile lock. Missile lock!”
A Falcon Night Gyr had answered his challenge and Iwona grinned, keying her Night Wolf’s weapon systems as the two Mech’s thundered forwards. It had not been any formal battle of old, rather a rapidly escalating series of meeting engagements when Stars and Binary’s ran into each other.
“Star Captain, there are some Falcon tanks moving to the north east, permission to engage?”
“Wipe them out, keep them from flanking us!”
There was a yowl as the Night Wolf’s Advanced Tactical Missile’s got a good solid lock and the Mech shuddered as it began volleying missiles.
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Behind the Jade Falcon lines at the Olivetti Works Factory a less intense conversation was taking place as a Warrior looked at a prize that even the Wolves knew nothing of. “Sir, they are barely ready, these are pre-production prototypes, the Shrike has only moved from its construction bay to where it is now.”
“But they are armed and operational Quiaff?” He asked looking over the BattleMech that stood beside him it was as if a Jade Falcon had inhabited the design.
“Aff, but I must advise strongly against their deployment, testing has only barely begun and we do not know of any kinks and flaws, yes they can fight but we do not know how well.” The Chief Technician glanced at his comrades for assistance but they did not want to draw the wrath of the Elemental. He didn’t want to push the designs before they were ready.
“They are avatars of the Clan; I will give you three Stars of my finest Mech Warriors. We cannot let the Dezgra Wolves close with this facility; these machines will drive them back in ruin.”
“But…Sir…”
“It is the Khan’s will. Do you wish to go against the orders of your Khan?” The Elemental turned slowly, his Myomer hand flexing, EI tattoos glinting in the harsh factory lighting.
“N-Neg!”
“Good. You have a fine Codex; it would be a shame to rip you apart. You have your orders, brief my men and ensure these Mech’s are ready!”
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Despite the rush on the planet’s surface to counter the Wolves in space the Jade Falcon WarShip Falcon’s Nest appeared to be far less interested in attacking the Wolves. “Sir they are turning again.” One of the Wolves reported slamming his fist down on his console. The Falcon’s Nest could fight the McKenna in a straight up battle with a chance of victory but the Texas was playing a strange fight.
“What are they playing at…we are tickling one another at this range, we try closing, they withdraw, we withdraw they try closing.”
The ship shook slightly as naval lasers struck the Werewolf burning the WarShip’s armour “minor hit on the starboard nose quarter, the armour absorbed the blow.”
“Sir I am requesting permission to bring half our fighters on board to refuel and re-arm, my pilots have been out there six hours.” The Werewolf’s aerospace and DropShip fighter controller requested from her console the pilots were not the only thing suffering the fuel levels were low on all of their fighters while ammunition levels on the several fighters were almost completely empty.
“Permission granted, the Falcons are content to dance at range anyhow. What about the forces at the Falcons orbital facilities?”
In the holo-tank the prize, the huge conglomeration of factories, plants, forges and slips for fighters, DropShips and Mech’s, the ugly but utterly functional Falcon’s Roost Orbital Assembly Plant glowed a brilliant green. Out of range for now and shielded by a wall of fighters and a dozen assault DropShips that must have had orders to hold position no matter the provocations sent against them.
There was a small cheer from the gunnery section Star Admiral Scott Conners glared at them angrily they were far from a true victory. “Sorry Sir! Enemy Noruff destroyed, it was skirting the edge of our engagement range with two stars of Fighters taunting us, the fighters are withdrawing, we showed them” the commander of the gunners reported triumphantly a smile beaming from his lips.
“Very good, well done, keep firing at any target in range” he said at least someone on the ship was happy.
---
Below Conners’ WarShip battle the fight had turned into a slugging match as the planet’s heavens opened and rain began to fall soaking the combatants. The Jade Falcons were throwing everything at the Mountain Wolf positions. “Target right! Damn it...and front! All Tango Units open fire, gut the bastards!” Star Captain Martin Ward cursed firing his Mech’s particle cannon at a Jade Falcon BattleMech. “Die dezgra scum!”
“STAR CA...”
Even as they tried to turn one flank of the Jade Falcons an enemy Bane 4 BattleMech smashed trees aside its broad feet sinking into the wet ground, its pilot ignoring the stinging fire from a Mountain Wolf Ice Ferret and focusing on another target, suddenly almost at once the Bane let rip with its massive ultra-class assault autocannons with a roaring burst of sustained fire. The high explosive shells tore into the Highlander IIC catching the Mountain Wolf BattleMech dead to rights even as the Jade Falcon warrior opened fire with its missiles. Even as the assault BattleMech crumbled and fell over like a dropped sack of cement the Jade Falcon Bane exploded under the combined fire of three Mountain Wolf Wolf Mech’s, Zelbringen was not in force, the Falcons viewed the Wolves as at best Mercenaries, and both sides were not holding back.
There were no battle lines, no neat lines of advance or retreat, just a huge confused and utterly undignified brawl that would remind those of who had seen the ROM’s as being as ferocious as the Trial of Annihilation of Clan Widowmaker, in the woody, soaked hilly terrain the two Clans were ripping into each other with a ferocity born of deep boned hated, no quarter asked, and none given.
With their DropShips fairly close the Wolves were quickly cycling Mech’s back to reload and re-arm and with the Skyreach mountains on their right flank the Falcons could come at them from two directions and the Mountain Wolves were on guard. Salvage teams were already hauling crippled Falcon Mech’s and tanks onto the DropShips as the pressure built all around them there was a feeling that the Falcons were finally starting to get organised rather than attacking in a fury.
“saKhan we have dug in and are holding them off but the Falcons are pushing along the entire front of our perimeter. Ironfur and Golden Eye Stars are firing arrows and supporting the DropShips, losses are…acceptable, at the moment.”
“Thank you Star Captain Andrew Radick, my Command Star will take its place on the line whilst you fall back to rearm.” The saKhan said stepping his Mech into the breach its feet sinking into the soaking mud saKhan Kerensky felt sorry for the ground bound Warg Battle Armoured troopers who had to wade through the mess.
“Aff saKhan.”
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Elsewhere behind Jade Falcon lines MechWarrior Roshak bit back a curse even as he pounded the top of his Eyrie’s main sensor display. The Mech was achingly new, it had walked precisely eight hundred and three meters since it had been made and was still in its standard matte grey finish with no camouflage applied. The enhanced Star had set out from the Olivetti factory, only having to halt when the Jade Hawk’s right leg actuator froze up, forcing them to leave the machine behind. Down to three Eyrie’s, two Gyrfalcon’s and a Shrike with the Jade Hawk being towed back to the factory on a huge flatbed recovery vehicle they were now finally approaching the battle zone, all be-it from an unexpected direction.
The Mech shook as its jump jets fired, the splayed wings in the left and right torso adjusting and moving almost organically to improve the airflow and stability of the jump before it thumped down, the thirty-five tonne Mech accelerating smoothly up to full speed. With his EI tattoos the Falcon warrior could almost feel branches rubbing against ‘his’ sides as the Star moved through the woods that marked the start of the Skyreach range, of course it was just sensor feedback but it did feel good. The three Eyrie’s ran in a hunched forwards gait, sleek, aggressive and powerful.
“Claw Star, targets ahead, strike hard but do not over extend yourself, these Mech’s are the future of the Clan, do not waste them or you WILL answer to me.”
“Aff Star Captain!”
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“Targets!” One of the Wolves screamed seeing the incoming contacts from another vector.
“What? There is nothing there but mountains.” The Star Captain said searching the trees through the rain looking for the targets.
“I am getting thermals Sir.”
“Understood, all Grey Stalker elements, prepare to engage!”
“Sir…I am not getting anything in the Warbook on the contacts. Seismic indicate a mix of lights and mediums with one assault but that is all.”
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The few glimpses by the Wolf Mech’s sensors was all the computers needed, it came up with UNKNOWN for the smaller machines but kept calling the other Mech an Onager, all be it of an unknown configuration the Jade Falcons had been busy.
“Okay, it seems we have some new Falcon toys to deal with. They will be our salvage. Move out!” saKhan Declan Kerensky ordered as the rain continued to beat down on the both sets of combatants.
Two Stars of Wolf Mech’s, all be it with some in a damaged state moved out to engage the six Falcon unknowns and it was a ‘learning experience’ for both sides. The Wolves learned about the firepower of the other machines whilst the Falcon Warriors had to adjust to their machines abilities, outnumbered the Falcons stuck together before launching a counter attack.
“Kevin on your right, small winged bastard!”
“Aff!” The Adder’s foot stomped down as the Mech turned hard, pulse laser blitzing bright blue bolts at the Falcon machine, cutting a gouge across its stylized chest before it fired its jump jets, the wings on its back shifting eye blink fast.
“They’ve got Partial Wings; they will out jump us in this weather and terrain!”
As the Falcon Mech landed out of sight there was a yell on the radio. “Stravag! That bastard just kicked me!” One of the Mountain Wolves shouted his Linebacker was in trouble, one of the Jade Falcon Mechs had come out of the woods and rain and engaged the OmniMech. Blazing away with its short ranged weapons the Falcon Mech stomped to a halt before raising its left leg and raking down the side of the Linebacker’s leg. Two meter long talons of dense, hardened metal gouged chunks out of the Linebacker’s leg, the Mech jumping away before the heavier Wolf machine could turn.
“Seems the claws are not just decorative…honourless scum!” The Wolf reported struggling to keep his Mech upright.
“Target down! Target down! Nailed the bastard!”
Star Captain Marc Vickers Warhawk shook as the big Falcon unknown raked it with a volley of lightweight autocannon fire. His Bravo config machine’s Gauss rifle thundered a shot back, taking the Falcon machine in its right torso, his fire being returned by a pair of ER Large lasers as the Clan Mech jumped backwards trying to disengage.
The Mech clearly had the Falcons laser heat sinks fitted, as it jumped and fired it was shrouded by plumes of jade green light that showed up clearly as the sun set. It was quite striking, but it made the Mech easy to track in this rain even without the aid of his machine’s sensor system. Vickers bit back a curse as his next Gauss shot missed, the Falcon machine having no such issue as it pelted his Mech with more laser fire.
“Sir! The Falcons are pulling back; we got one of their lights and damaged the rest.”
‘Ahh…so that’s why you’re jumping…’ Vickers thought as he glanced at his unit’s details. The Falcons had targeted wisely, going after his damaged elements, killing a Linebacker, a Mad Dog and Kit Fox. A good exchange for them.
“Let them go, but I want that one we downed towed back to the DropShip if needs be, our Scientists will want to see this.” Vickers ordered looking at the downed Mech. Above the Jade Falcons and Wolves the rain which had been pelting them throughout the battle seemed to instantly dry up Vickers almost laughed.
“Aff Star Captain!”
---
Even as there was a lul in the battle and the weather below in space the battle continued between the Werewolf and Falcon’s Nest. “Sir we are cycling the CAP, they will be space born in ten minutes.”
“Understood, keep an eye out for any Falcon adventurism, not that they are being bold.”
“Sir! I am getting pre-emergence neutrinos!” Another crewmen called out from across the command centre.
“Where?”
“Above Sudeten Sir, at the planets jump point” the Mountain Wolf reported as the Werewolf’s powerful sensors detected the new ship arriving.
“So that is why they were playing the waiting game…twelve hours of fencing whilst they waited for reinforcements.” Conners cursed angrily wishing he’d taken his McKenna and slaughtered the Falcon’s Nest before now and damned the circumstances.
“Emergence in 3…2…1” the warrior called out as another one-and-a-half million tonne warship burst into reality, her IFF broadcasting loud and clear, Identifying her as the CJF Turkina’s Might.
“Sir! We have an unidentified Warship; it appears to be a Texas class…or based on one at least.” One of the Wolves said looking at the Werewolf’s sensor readouts the ship was a Texas but it wasn’t.
“Get me the saKhan immediately!” Connors ordered on the tactical holo-display the Falcon’s Nest came about, engines flaring brightly as the two Falcon WarShips moved to trap the larger McKenna between them.
“Link established.” On his headset the Werewolf’s commander heard the distinctive sounds of gunfire.
“What is it? I am a bit busy at the moment.” saKhan Declan Kerensky ordered under the sound of further gunfire as his OmniMech was damaged by the Jade Falcons.
“saKhan we have had a new enemy WarShip jump in system, it is another battleship, type unknown. We are significantly outgunned up here.” Conners reported
“Can you hold them?” The saKhan asked his frustration clear through the headset they had never come here to conquer Sudeten but the Wolves were caught up in the fight disengaging now felt wrong.
“Neg, not without endangering this ship and risk losing the entire raiding force, we need to withdraw.” The Star Admiral reported as his WarShip shook heavily from long range capital missile fire from the Jade Falcon vessels.
“Damn…understood. All Mountain Wolf Forces, this is saKhan Declan Kerensky, the situation has changed and we are now going to withdraw. We have bloodied the Falcon’s nose and claimed a fine bounty of captured equipment. Fall back as planned and then lift off. Nothing heroic, our Clan needs warriors, not dead martyrs.” He ordered on the ground around the saKhan several Wolf Mechs opened fire with long range missiles loaded with FASCAM munitions these had been held back for the entire battle until now. The Mountain Wolves proceeded to coat the battlefield in mines even as they fell back.
“Star Admiral, how much time have we got?” He asked as more weapons fire struck his OmniMech.
“Two hours, maybe two and a half before they are both within firing range, their first Texas had withdrawn to effect repairs and is now moving to intercept with its comrade.” Star Admiral Connors reported watching the screens as if the two WarShips would
“We will be there, the Jump drive is charged?”
“Aff, then we can burn to a pirate point and leave.”
“Aff, I will make sure that all our forces are aboard before we depart.”
The Mountain Wolf forces withdrew, star by star, binary by binary back to their landing zones continuing to deploy FASCAM munitions all across the area. The Wolves had deployed so many mines that it would take the Falcons months to clear them all and even then the area would still be a hotbed for accidental deaths caused by remaining FASCAM munitions which lay hidden. The Mountain Wolf’s sudden and well planned withdrawal caught the Jade Falcons by complete surprise allowing more of the Wolves to escape a fact that would result in the death of the Jade Falcon Galaxy Commander in the weeks that followed.
Despite their preparation, the Wolves did not get away freely, leaving the better part of two Trinaries behind on the surface of Sudeten, whilst also suffering heavy losses among their Elemental’s and Warg equipped units which had gotten bogged down in the retreat and overrun by the Jade Falcons. True to his word Declan Kerensky was the last to board his DropShip in his heavily damaged Dire Wolf. Another vicious aerospace battle saw the Titan class carrier Hercules’ Strength destroyed in a ramming attack whilst the Isegrim Howler was disabled and later captured by Falcon Elementals.
Dogged by Jade Falcon forces the Mountain Wolf DropShips retreated from the planet whilst the two Falcon battleships maintained their pursuit of the Werewolf. Finally the Wolves reached their pirate point and were able to jump clear of the system escaping the Jade Falcon trap.
In material terms the costs were about even. For the loss of two Trinaries as well as moderate damage to the Werewolf as well as the loss of two DropShips with a third having to be decommissioned due to heavy damage the Mountain Wolf forces destroyed about a Cluster’s worth of Falcon forces, destroyed four DropShips and one orbital factory as well as claiming a few Stars worth of salvage. The damage to the Falcon’s Nest was not so extensive requiring a month’s repairs. The Falcons also claimed that they revealed their newest battleship the Turkina’s Might in a pleasing fashion, her guns firing in anger for the first time against a live target. More important was that production at Sudeten was not overly affected by the raid, even if they did spend considerable resources digging additional defences round vital facilities.
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O0 Nice update Dragon Cat and Marauder648!
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Interesting that the Horses are developing Mecha-clanner as per the OTL all be it a fair bit earlier thanks to there being no major disruption due to the jihad. I would assume the horses are also working on Quadvee's?
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Great update, I really do like that at least the last couple of years have seen some major changes to the geography of the map.
A question, there seems to be 5-6 worlds in a strip behind the line that can be drawn between Kooken's Pleasure Pit, Roadside, and Barcelona. Have the Falcons abandoned/pulled back from Black Earth, Beta VII, Hot Springs, Blackjack, Goat Path and maybe Alyina?
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A little Q&A
Interesting that the Horses are developing Mecha-clanner as per the OTL all be it a fair bit earlier thanks to there being no major disruption due to the jihad. I would assume the horses are also working on Quadvee's?
More due to the lack of Republic era peace the Inner Sphere and Clans are both pushing to get one up on each other. IMO the Parash and Skinwalker are two designs that could really set the Clans apart from the Inner Sphere. The Horses are obviously the first two to play with the concept and as was seen in this little fight it's a long way from being a workable unit.
Quadvees are stuck in drawing board hell and will be for a while
Great update, I really do like that at least the last couple of years have seen some major changes to the geography of the map.
A question, there seems to be 5-6 worlds in a strip behind the line that can be drawn between Kooken's Pleasure Pit, Roadside, and Barcelona. Have the Falcons abandoned/pulled back from Black Earth, Beta VII, Hot Springs, Blackjack, Goat Path and maybe Alyina?
The Falcon Touman isn't big enough so they've withdrawn from worlds they don't care about
Newton Square, Barcelona, Bone Norman, Black Earth were all abandoned and have subsequently been occupied by the Sea Fox Clan. Similarly the Sea Foxes have taken control of other worlds. If you are looking at the Clan OZ the Sea Fox Clan currently "control" from Newton Square to Toland and Steelton across and from Bone Norman to Kooken's Pleasure Pit, Alyina and Apolakki downwards.
The Hell's Horse retain Butler (and the shipyard) and all the worlds beyond it to the Rasalhague Dominion. While the Jade Falcons retain control over the Dark Nebula (and the shipyard)
The Hell's Horses and Jade Falcons see this as beneficial because they get a buffer state between their Occupation Zones and trade from the Foxes. The Foxes meanwhile are allowing most of these worlds to retain a lot of autonomy up to and including furnishing them with conventional infantry weapons, armour and vehicles.
Hopefully that helps feel free to ask anything further anytime
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That's pretty much exactly what I was looking for, the "technical" political alignments of those worlds, I could have seen some of them turning nearly completely independent for a while.
As for the reasons why the HH and JF are okay with the SF picking up the pieces and getting more territory, I fully understand that part. Both of them have relied on them fairly heavily by this point, and it looks like that's only going to increase on the JF front... at least until they can manage to get themselves another decently sized factory world (which I don't think is going to happen any time soon, if at all).
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Are there stats for the mobile yard HH1?
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They were on this site but can't see there here on OurBattleTech as well:
Technically the Forge HH-1 but more often than not refered to as the HH-1
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/forge-hh-1-yardship/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/forge-hh-1-yardship/)
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I'd have always thought that the HH1 was a modified M-9 w/o the SDS Control and most of that station's Naval weapons. To make room for more storage / habitat space.
TT
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I'd have always thought that the HH1 was a modified M-9 w/o the SDS Control and most of that station's Naval weapons. To make room for more storage / habitat space.
TT
To me it was always a support asset for the Clan that was easily moved. A repair ship if it was needed or a factory ship to keep the Clan going until ground facilities, or shipyards, were built.
To the Periphery to end 3103 - answering 3 questions... What Erik Martens-Calderon thought of the worlds leaving, where the Subtlety came from, and what has happened to the Nova Cats.
Government Meeting
Samantha, Taurus
Taurian Concordat, Periphery
2nd December 3103
“I hold in my hand a letter from the new Public Leader of Sananda” Governor Chiara Ruggeri said standing in front of the Taurian Government she was one of the youngest governors in the room at forty-two years, six years junior to the current Protector, she had long dyed blonde hair which made her look quite a bit younger than she actually was a career politician she’d never seen war outside this room. “In this letter the Leader, a Rolf McQuarry, requested that Captain Sarah Potenza remove her lance of BattleMechs and their supporting vehicle company from the planet.” The Governor said “Rolf McQuarry was an infantry company commander in the Taurus’ Revenge Regiment and in this letter” she said waving it above her “he stated that our forces were no longer needed or welcome on the planet but that he did not wish harm to come to our people.” She said looking around the room “Captain Potenza withdrew her forces from the system and is moving them to join the rest of the Taurus’ Revenge Regiment on the Federated Suns front.” She said turning towards Protector Erik Martens-Calderon “what will you do about this world and the other that have joined the New Colony Region?” She asked looking at the Protector he noted her use of the original name for the Fronc Reaches.
“For now nothing” Erik Martens-Calderon said staring at Chiara Ruggeri who looked angry at his answer. “In total the six systems have left the Taurian Concordat. SIX” he said emphasizing the point “they are nothing compared to the greater Concordat, they do not wish to be part of our nation and now they represent less mouths for us to feed.” He said bluntly shocking many of the parliaments “we have lost no mining facilities we cannot replace and out of all of those worlds a single ammunition factory…”
“What of the troops that have defected?” Chiara asked interrupting him “before his popular rising Rolf McQurry was an infantry officer.”
“In total we have lost three battalions of infantry and a small assortment of Mechs and vehicles which were in too bad a condition to be removed by our troops on short notice.” Erik said raising a small pad of paper from his side “we have captured three times as much material as we have lost I combat against the Federated Suns and our trade deal with the Capellans has netted us even more.” The Protector stressed the Concordat was on the rise they needed to see that “Taurus Territorial Industries of Sterope continue to provide our nation with the effective Hyades-class JumpShip. Our military is one of the most mobile in the entire Periphery.” Erik said seeing that while they were happy with what he had said few of them were convinced “four years ago Taurus Territorial Industries was able to construct its first Compact K-F Core.” He announced seeing finally some interest few understood the science behind Interstellar travel but they knew that WarShips were built around a Compact K-F Core. “Since then those same engineers have worked on reverse engineering the drives from the Jason Hasek” ladies and gentlemen “I am very proud to announce that as of today our military are the proud owners of the first Hyades-class Corvette” he said behind him a screen activated showing the vessel slowly move clear of the Sterope shipyard. “I have directed this vessel to be named the TCS Jeffery Calderon after my father.” He said proudly almost immediately there was applause from around the room but Erik noticed that Chiara Ruggeri was not completely convinced. “We will bring those worlds back into the Concordat in time and in the same way that they left through peace” Erik said “for now our nation stands as one at war, a War that we are winning.”
“Until the Federated Suns decides that we are more than an annoyance.” Chiara Ruggeri warned before retaking her seat. Erik Martens-Calderon watched her for several moments as the Speaker of the House began their next topic of discussion for a moment Erik and Chiara’s eyes met the Protector simply nodded his respect to her which the Governor returned.
Diplomatic Meeting, Subtelty (McKenna MOD-class Battleship)
Wildwood, Magistracy of Canopus
Periphery
20th December 3103
When word had reached Canopus of a non-hostile McKenna-class Battleship which had arrived in the Wildwood system the Magestix had send Ambassador Winson Hodges and the MCS Katara, a Shoung Bi Shou-class Corvette, to discover what their intentions were. Fortunately the rumours of the McKenna being passive were accurate and when the Katara had arrived the Ambassador had been invited on board.
Docking on board the Subtlety Ambassador Winson Hodges pulled himself through the micro-gravity into the airlock of the McKenna-class Battleship and was surprised to see Commander America Park, the commander of the nearby defence station, on board the vessel. “Welcome on board the Subtlety Profitable Training College of Military Arts” she said greeting him “Captain Leroy-Detrich is awaiting you.”
“Lead on Commander” he said the Magistracy Armed Forces officer turned as did the member of the Subtlety who was escorting them. As they moved through the corridors in the micro-gravity Ambassador Winson Hodges was surprised at the state of the McKenna. Despite the Subtlety's external appearance the internal arrangement of the Subtlety was in very good condition however there were some areas which showed things were not normal on board the vessel. As they moved along the corridors Hodges noted a room marked weapons control the door was broken, or missing, and the room completely empty with the consoles dark. Hodges was not an expert on naval vessels but he would have thought there would be at least one person manning the weapons array.
Commander Park and their Subtlety guide led the small group to one of the McKenna’s large gravity decks a fact that Hodges was particularly happy about. On the gravity deck they were led to one of the large conference rooms. Inside there was a man and a woman the man was at least fifty years old, but looked ten years younger, his dark hair beginning to grey slightly but his body showed few of the traits that came along with being exposed to long stays in a gravity well Hodges guessed that the man had spent extended periods in space or low gravity. The woman was more difficult to read like the male she looked younger but her eyes spoke of a much older person her dyed white hair further threw of estimates of her age.
“Captain Leroy-Dietrich this is Ambassador Winson Hodges representing the Magistracy of Canopus” Commander America Park said turning back to the Ambassador “Ambassador Hodges this is Captain William Leroy-Dietrich, the commander of this vessel, and Director Cynthia Higgins, head of training for the Subtlety Profitable Training College of Military Arts.” She said introducing them bowing slightly she began to move to leave.
“A pleasure to meet you…” Hodges began
“Ambassador” Captain Leroy-Dietrich said interrupting “I would prefer that Commander Park remain.” He said stopping America’s walk towards the exit “her people were the first we encountered in the Magistracy and they have been quite hospitable.”
“Of course” Hodges said glancing over at America Park “take a seat commander.” He said his tone indicated to her that he wanted her to sit and to remain quiet. In a matriarchal society, dominated by women, it spoke leaps and bounds at Hodges skill that he had raised to a position of power. “Captain Leroy-Dietrich” he said turning back to the Subtlety duo “first please allow me to second Commander Park’s efforts to welcome you to the Magistracy of Canopus.” He said neither spoke “secondly please accept our Magestix’s apologies she recently gave birth to her second child the Duchess Anna Centrella and has been unable to travel.” He explained
“I thank you for your welcome Ambassador.” Leroy-Dietrich said “we did not expect a welcome from your Magestix…”
“But please pass on our congratulations a new birth is a wonderful thing” Cynthia Higgins said interrupting the Captain glanced at her for a moment Hodges guessed with a frustrated look before meeting the Captain’s eyes once more.
“Ambassador please allow us to begin with honesty and by making one thing absolutely clear the Subtlety, her DropShips and her Aerospace Fighters will not be aligning themselves with your Magistracy.” Leroy-Dietrich said immediately Commander America Park glanced down at the desk then back at the Ambassador.
“I will be equally honest with you Captain my Magestix has authorized me to make you and your crew very, very wealthy should you accept her offer.” Hodges said there was no point hiding the fact that the Magistracy wanted the McKenna added to their fleet even with their fourth WarShip almost complete at the Trznadal Cluster Shipyards none of their vessels had the prowess or presence of the Battleship.
“Although we appreciate that fact” Cynthia Higgins said “and that you have not attempted to attack this vessel you must understand that the Subtlety is not a war vessel. She is not fitted out like a normal McKenna-class vessel she is, and always was, designed to be a training vessel. Captain Leroy-Dietrich and his crew are dedicated to enhancing the naval skills of anyone willing to pay the College’s minimal charges.”
“But that was not always the case” Hodges said glancing at the captain as he removed a notebook from his pocket “in 3084 there was a Lieutenant William Leroy-Dietrich who was a member of the Fifteenth Exploration Squadron, a mercenary aerospace fighter unit, which according to the MRBC Records available on Canopus was last hired by the Interstellar Expeditions for a deep space mission beyond Magistracy space.” He said Commander Park’s obvious surprise showed she knew nothing of the Ambassador’s findings.
“Is there a question there?” Leroy-Dietrich asked not denying Hodges calm.
“What happened to your unit? Where did you find this ship? And what are your intentions?” Hodges asked
“What happened to my unit is a long story” Leroy-Dietrich said “you are correct I am the pilot of the records. We were assigned to six JumpShips deployed by Interstellar Expeditions specifically to resupply Interstellar Expeditions base Twenty-Two and to find Rim Worlds Outpost Eleven.”
“It was found years ago” America Park said the outpost one of dozens the Rim Worlds Republic created before the Star League Civil War it had been found in 3067 by Interstellar Expeditions completely abandoned.
“Wrong” Director Cynthia Higgins admitted “the expedition that claimed to find Outpost Eleven were forced to make that claim by…” she hesitated for a moment looking at Leroy-Dietrich who nodded “by my people, the people of Outpost Eleven.”
“You are a descendant of the Rim Worlds Republic?” Ambassador Hodges asked startled there were units that claimed a linage to the Rim Worlds Republic but there were no colonies that still made that claim the Rim Worlds Republic was a dead nation.
“The people of Outpost Eleven were their own people. We always believed there was something wrong with the report on the base. The team that discovered it were apparently lost on their way back to the Inner Sphere.” Leroy-Dietrich said speaking again “each of our JumpShips were equipped with an HPG communications system so we spread out. After three years we found the system claimed by Outpost Eleven and to our surprise the third world had signs of life.” He said the wonderment was clear on his face “we sent word to the other JumpShips and headed towards the planet.” He explained “on our way to the planet our JumpShip was attacked and forced to retreat from the system by unknown raiders.”
“Periphery scum that had prayed on our world for decades” Higgins said “they pushed out world to its breaking point destroying much of the defences we still had active.”
“We knew nothing of this” Leroy-Dietrich said “all we knew was there was a hostile force behind us and that we needed to get to the planet.” He said continuing with the tale “we pushed onto the third planet which was one of the most exotic I have ever seen. The remains of nearly a dozen moons remained in orbit around the world creating a debris field that completely engulfed the planet’s orbit.” He said “we pushed through it towards the planet and that is when we discovered the Subtlety.” He said
“The Subtlety was built by the Star League Defence Force as a next generation training vessel” Higgins explained “somehow the ship escaped the chaos of the Star League Civil War and made its way out of the Inner Sphere its crew never looking back. Unfortunately when they arrived at Outpost Eleven they were almost out of fuel and food and when they landed… the people of our world were not particularly pleasant to them” she explained looking at the table in shame.
“We had other plans for the ship docking three of our four DropShips with the ship we transferred as much fuel as we could and brought her reactors online.” He explained proud of the fact. “On that day I became Captain of the Subtlety we were on a steep learning curve in three days we learned how to use the weapons on board the ship and waited for the pirates. When they arrived near the debris field we let them have it with everything this ship had wiping out the pirates but also causing more damage to the Subtlety.”
“Then came their encounter with my people” Cynthia Higgins said “our population had steadily shrunk for nearly a decade and could barely support ourselves. Captain Leroy-Dietrich agreed to evacuate our remaining people once their JumpShips arrived.”
“But that means you should have returned to the Inner Sphere decades ago?” Hodges asked he was no expert on space travel but new that JumpShips wouldn’t take that long to return.
“You are correct” Leroy-Dietrich admitted “but the Subtlety was not ready for extended travel so we chose to remain at Outpost Eleven while we made repairs and modifications to the WarShip we dispatched one of our JumpShips back to Interstellar Expeditions base for additional supplies and equipment. It took us nearly fourteen years but it was worth it.” Leroy-Dietrich said smiling
“Between the Interstellar Expeditions forces, the mercenary commands hired to protect them and my people we chose to form a new organisation. The Subtlety Profitable Training College of Military Arts” she said proudly “our college primarily caters to the naval arts but also engineering, navigation and other forms of education. We decided that everyone that we had with us would be trained to have the best opportunities for their future if they decided to stay with the Subtlety and our JumpShips fine but if they wanted to go beyond they would be able to last in the universe with the education we gave them. Since returning to the Inner Sphere we have expanded that to those beyond our collection of ships.”
“Which leads us to our goal” Leroy-Dietrich said “we plan to travel to Outreach and Galatea and register with the MRBC as a travelling school. We will bring education and skills to anyone who is willing to listen to us; we will share what we know of aerospace combat and trade our knowledge for passage through the Inner Sphere. For any supplies we will trade equipment or pay in good old C-Bills.”
“As you can see WarShips have reached even the depths of the periphery” America Park said referring to the Katara which held position off the Subtlety’s bow.
“Yes an impressive feat” Leroy-Dietrich admitted “but does you crew know how to combat a McKenna?” He asked both Park and Hodges looked surprised for a moment but before they could speak the Subtlety's commander spoke again. “I do not mean this as a threat simply would your crew have any idea what to do when encountering a vessel like the McKenna? Or a Texas, a Monsoon, an Atreus, a Farragut?” He asked expanding it to other WarShips of SLDF era. “The systems on board the Subtlety are very advanced we can mimic the damage capabilities of any Star League-era WarShip.” He boasted seeing both of them were impressed.
“We have shipyard facilities; we could assist and repair some of the damage that has been done to your vessel?” Hodges suggested even if they couldn’t convince them to stay they could get a look inside the WarShip.
“Not necessary” Leroy-Dietrich said “while we have sustained some damage to the hull and some systems they are not critical to this vessel’s operation.” He said seeing Hodges disappointment “understand Mr Ambassador while we mean no hostile intent towards your Magistracy the Subtlety is capable of defending itself and its JumpShips.”
“In that case I do not see the Magestix objecting to your travel through our nation. We will arrange for our forces to be in place for your training exercises. I will also arrange for a liaison officer to join your vessel to ensure there is no miss-communications or accidents during your travel through our territory.”
“Mr Ambassador I, we,” he said correcting himself glancing at Cynthia Higgins who nodded “would prefer Commander Park remained on board as Ambassador to the Subtlety Profitable Training College of Military Arts.”
“Is that correct?” Ambassador Hodges said looking at Commander America Park who looked as surprised as the Ambassador by the request. “Well the Commander has responsibilities here at Wildwood” he said for a moment “but I believe I can convince the Magistracy Armed Forces Command to waver these duties for the duration of this assignment.” He said deciding that keeping the McKenna and its crew on side was a better course of action than aggravating its Captain.
“Thank you Mr Ambassador” Captain William Leroy-Dietrich said stepping closer extending his hand.
“Welcome to the Magistracy of Canopus may your journey be long and safe” Ambassador Winson Hodges said rising from his chair meeting the Captain’s hand shaking it formally. The Subtlety's journey had just begun.
Nova Cat Command, Khan’s Office
New Barcella, Nova Cat’s Den
Periphery
26th December 3103
The doors to the Khan’s office opened without a single word from the Elemental Guards standing outside Galaxy Commander Katrine Devalis hadn’t expected them to say anything there was no need. Before entering she straightened her leather uniform jacket and tightened the pony tail that held her long scarlet coloured hair. As the commander of Upsilon Galaxy she did not need to wait to be announced before entering instead once ready she marched in to find Khan Canin Rosse standing near his desk at a relaxed stance apparently waiting for her. The Khan had originated in the Clan Nova Cat Watch she knew he still had very strong links to the organisation no doubt had his spies monitoring her every move since she handed on the Nova Cat Capitol. “Khan Rosse, I report as I was requested to.” She said as she approached stopping just short of his desk. The Khan was almost thirty years older than she was and approaching the sixty-fifth anniversary of his birth but he looked like he was fifteen-to-twenty years younger, his fitness level and mental readiness unquestionable by anyone in the Clan. It was obvious to Katrine that the most recent crisis had aged the Khan but despite the millions dead from the virus on New Barcella, including the Khan’s freeborn wife Yvonne, the Khan was a formidable opponent.
“And a timely arrival Galaxy Commander” the Khan said looking at her his deep blue eyes piercing through her in them she could see the desire that had driven the man all these years was still there. “It is good to be home once more.” He said after a moment of silence for more than a year New Barcella had been under a strict quarantine the virus outbreak. Unable to cure the virus alone the Nova Cats had been forced to turn to the other Clans for assistance with a breakthrough being made only a couple of months before on Tukayyid. Since spreading the cure through the population the quarantine had been lifted but the Nova Cats were still being careful to clean everything that had been affected by the virus.
“Aff it is, our losses have been surprisingly light” she commented. She like many others had feared the Galaxy based on New Barcella would be completely gutted by the virus.
“Light” Canin Rosse said looking at her surprised “nineteen million dead…” He said allowing the number to hang in the air for several moments it was almost unfathomable.
“Ninety percent of those were Freebirths” Katrina Devalis replied “they populate like rabbits if we were Jade Falcon we’d have seen the virus as a blessing.”
“Aff but we are not Falcons we are Nova Cats” the Khan reminded her “you harm part of the whole you hurt our whole Clan and remember not all our losses were freeborns ten percent of the losses were trueborns.”
“But only a handful of active warriors” she argued the only trueborns who had been affected badly were those who had been badly injured in the past or that were too old be of use. Only a very small number of warriors in New Barcella’s garrison had actually been harmed, four trueborns and twenty-two freeborns, unfortunately their technical staff had been gutted meaning the units would be useless in a campaign for a short period.
With the virus contained on New Barcella the rest of the Nova Cat’s Den and their Khan safely off the planet the Nova Cat’s had continued to function normally finally absorbing the majority of the Filtvelt Coalition, trading with the Ravens and even re-establishing some links to the Sea Foxes. During the entire crisis Khan Canin Rosse had stayed apprised of what was happening on their capitol planet but even after the death of Yvonne there had been no course to challenge his leadership; much to Katrine’s disappointment.
“Aff” the Khan agreed again Katrina Devalis was getting worried they had never seen eye-to-eye. She believed their Clan should never have come to the periphery instead it should have remained with their other Clans as an invasion force and absorbed the Smoke Jaguars Occupation Zone when the time was right. Khan Canin Rosse had always been one of the strongest supporters of the Nova Cat’s new path a position that had been vindicated when the Jaguars and Adders had been ejected from the Inner Sphere. “There was one particular trueborn loss which has been damaging to our Clan, saKhan Ajax Drummond.” He said Katrina Devalis was surprised Ajax Drummond had not been on New Barcella when the virus broke out, neither of the Khans had.
“How did he die?” Katrina asked she didn’t care for Ajax Drummond he was a wet towel to the Khan’s fire she felt he’d dampened any fighting spirit the Nova Cat leader had for many years and had been surprised when Canin Rosse had pushed for the conquest of the Filtvelt Coalition.
“An explosion on board his DropShip while returning from Tukayyid with the cure for the New Barcella virus.”
“They arrived back TWO months ago!” Katrina said angrily taking a step forward “YOU have hidden that fact from our Clan!” She said accusingly.
“Aff I did our Clan did not need to hear of our saKhan’s death after learning of the losses on New Barcella.” The Khan replied turning her anger back on her while remaining completely calm. “I acted in what I thought was the best interest for our Clan; an action I would repeat if I thought it was necessary. A Khan must be willing to sacrifice their own honour for the good of their Clan it’s something you must learn Katrine Devalis.”
“Me…” she said suddenly stunned she hated the Khan, she was sure he hated her, why would he choose her? She had been the symbol for all opposition for Canin Rosse, and his stavag family, and had inherited command of Upsilon Galaxy when Grayson Rosse, Canin’s freeborn son, was killed in action and had been a thorn in the Khan’s side.
“Yes you” Canin said “tough choices need to be made.” He said “you and I have not always seen eye-to-eye but it is time we set those differences aside and concentrated on helping the Nova Cats.” He said explaining his decision.
“I agree” she said after a moment considering his words.
“Good” Canin Rosse said smiling “then your first job is to fix New Barcella return it to the status of our capital. This includes replacing our ‘light losses’” he said quoting her our words “bring techs to bring New Barcella’s Clusters back to combat readiness, bring workers in to run the idle factories on New Barcella which have fallen into disuse because their freeborn workers are dead. Repopulate our streets.” He said laying down why he didn’t see nineteen million losses as a light loss.
“Our trueborn crèches were not affected at all we will replace those lost freeborns with failed warriors in time.” She began before the Khan spoke again.
“Aye in time” Canin Rosse said trying not to roll his eyes “so in sixteen years when this year’s crèches graduate we will be able to reopen our factories, will add tech support to our Clusters and make our streets feel alive instead of like a cemetery. Our Clan needs support now!” He snapped
“We have factories on other worlds working at, or over, their capacities and we have stockpiles of munitions in warehouses here unused when they were stuck by the quarantine.” Katrine Devalis said combing back at her Khan. We can make do with what we have until we are able to bring in skilled workers. I will bring in techs from other units to support those on New Barcella” she said confident she could make it work.
“I don’t want to make do.” Canin said dropping into the use of a contraction bringing a scowl from Katrina. “I want New Barcella to thrive once more I want this world to feel like it is alive; like it was before. You are now our saKhan, in the absence of a planetary administrator; it is your job to get it done.” He commanded his voice raising Katrina had heard the Khan use this tone a hundred times in the Clan Council chambers not losing his temper or shouting just adding an authority to his voice that few could match. It was simple he wanted it done and if she failed he would replace her by any means the Nova Cat Khan, for now, was Clan Nova Cat.
“Yes my Khan” she said crossing her fist across her chest in salute before turning and briskly marching out her scarlet ponytail bouncing as she marched out of the office. As saKhan she’d have to deal with someone she hated on nearly a daily basis, unless they were in the field, but it would give her an opportunity if Canin Rosse screwed up badly enough she would be in the position to become the Nova Cat’s next Khan a position she desired deeply.
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O0 Nice update! An overconfident TC Protector and Clan NC SaKhan that has really no long term view of governing, except for Glory! Wonder what will happen down the road between these two nations. Nice story on 'The Subtlety Profitable Training College of Military Arts'! I wonder who can afford their fees for the Naval training? More please!
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An excellent update, something tells me that the Nova Cat's are going to need another SaKhan if Katrine Devalis keeps up her...very old fashioned ways she's so indifferent of the Spheroids that she's almost a Falcon.
Great stuff about the mystery McKenna and her adventures as well :)
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Was too tired last night but here's the Map (on OBT) and the attached WarShip list
Map:
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/dragon-cat-collection/3081-map/15/#lastPost (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/dragon-cat-collection/3081-map/15/#lastPost)
Any problems questions feel free to ask
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Into 3104 -
3104
Planetary assault
Idlewind, Alberio Prefecture
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
14th January 3104
As autocannon fire raked his Dragon Tai-sa Dante Masamune swore the Rasalhague Dominion Ursus the only way that pilot should have hit him at that range was if the pilot was the next Kai Allard-Liao. His Mech’s warbook tagged the Mech as a Ursus PR he had no idea what that meant as he lined up on the Mech with his particle cannon smiling when the lighning bolt struck the target’s upper shoulder. Suddenly from nowhere a Ghost Bear Mech tagged as a Beowulf IIC-PR ran past his Mech burning the Dragon with several lasers which was almost instantly followed by more autocannon from the Ursus. Even as the autocannons blew armour off the right shoulder of the Dragon it was like realization of what was going on hit the Tai-sa. “KILL THE BEOWULF!” He snapped watching the forty-five ton Mech run away passing another Combine Mech almost on cue autocannon fire, from the Ursus, raked the other Combine Mech it was like the two Rasalhague Mechs were connected in a C3 network.
Across the Combine battle line Mechs turned on the Beowulf Tai-sa Dante Masamune targeted its partner the Ursus intent on killing at least one of the Mechs. His particle cannon dug into the other Mech but at this distance the shots were not easy marching his Mech forward he pulled the Mech’s other trigger launching a flight of long range missiles at the Bear Mech. As the smoke cleared from the missile Dante had no time to react as a sixty-five ton Karhu charged through the smoke straight at the Dragon. Lasers and particle cannons tore into the Dragon before the Karhu punched out with its left arm the claw-like fore arm tearing through the Dragon’s armour shredding the structure underneath. Tai-sa Dante Masamune triggered both his Mech’s medium lasers striking the Karhu at close range burning the Dominion OmniMech but he knew he was in trouble the Karhu was a brawler the Bears had sucked him in with the Ursus and Beowulf setting him up for the close range Karhu. “I’m in trouble!” He called out but there was no reply glancing at his sensors Dante knew why the Karhu’s charge had not been a solitary one across the line several of the Rasalhague Dominion’s close range fighters had charged forward into the DCMS line causing total chaos.
With the Karhu still close to him Dante turned his Dragon firing the long range missiles blindly trying to catch the fast moving heavy OmniMech his sensors told him that none of the missiles had struck home. Instead the Tai-sa braced himself for the next strike which came in the form of several autocannon strikes against his Mech’s back, the Ursus hadn’t gone away either, the autocannon fire stripped the rear armour from his Dragon exposing the Mech’s structure. Dante turned again firing the particle cannon and long range missiles at the Ursus it was a snap shot and both shots went wide his turn against the Urus had exposed his rear armour to the returning Beowulf IIC-PR which opened up with laser fire directly into the Dragon’s back. Directly exposed to laser fire the engine shielding of the Dragon failed flooding the cockpit with heat a second salvo of laser fire gutted the Mech’s gyroscope. Suddenly without the gyro to translate Dante Masamune’s sense of balance the Dragon began to fall not waiting to fall with the dead Mech and be at the mercy of the surrounding Rasalhague Mechs Dante Masamune triggered the eject system. The Dragon’s head split open and the control chair carried its pilot away from the falling Mechs into the air.
With their commander gone the DCMS defenders attempted to reform their lines a kilometres several kilometres behind their current line but the the Bears would not be denied surging forwards the Bears repeated their tactics drawing out a couple fo Combine defenders and then flooding the enemies lines with close range fighters. It was not conventional Clan tactics but it was very effective with the Draconis Combine defenders not ready for the coordination of the Clan forces there was no question that the Rasalhague Dominion would be victorious.
Three days later another Rasalhague Dominion strike force landed on Nykvarm and followed the same tactics pushing forward with teams of Ursus and Beowulf BattleMechs unnerving the DCMS defenders creating holes in their defensive lines before close range fighters were brought in to crush their opposition accumulating in the conquest of the planet by the end of January.
Deep Space, FSS Hanse Davion II (First Prince II-class Battleship)
Unnamed System, Periphery
20th January 3104
The FSS Hanse Davion II flashed into existence and quickly scanned the system. “Sir, the Nova Cat Battle-cruiser is where we expected. A second WarShip, a Drake-class Corvette, is at the Nadir point.” One of the officers said looking back at Admiral Michael Thomas who nodded an understanding the Corvette was the Nova Cats insurance. Should the Federated Suns double-cross them the Corvette could bring news back to the Nova Cats of the betrayal and the death of their Khan. The First Prince had ordered something similar in deep space the DMI’s Clarkston, a Bug Eye-class Surveillance craft, was monitoring the situation. Should anything go wrong the ship would trickle-charge its tiny K-F Drive and jump back to the Federated Suns. “Communications from the Nova Cat’s they are requestion to send of a single DropShip carrying their representative.” He said continuing the Admiral glanced over his shoulder at First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion who nodded.
“Launch the CAP and inform the Nova Cats that they may approach when ready and that our CAP will escort them in. No other Nova Cat units are to approach the Hanse.” He ordered
“Thank you Admiral Thomas, have your security detail escort the Nova Cat Khan to meeting room six please” Victor said turning to leave the command centre. The Nova Cats had called for this meeting, their first with the Federated Suns since the two severed diplomatic relations, it was time to find out what they wanted.
It took nearly three hours for the Nova Cat’s Noruff-class DropShip to cover the distance between the two WarShips, to dock and for its passenger to make his way to the meeting room. Khan Canin Rosse entered the briefing room with a single Elemental guard, once it was clear there was no problems in the briefing room the Elemental retreated outside leaving the First Prince and Khan alone.
“It has been many years. Welcome on board the Hanse Davion II” Victor said greeting the Nova Cat Khan indicating to the chair opposite him. Canin Rosse covered the distance in three strides sitting down at nearly the same time as the First Prince facing him although they had faced much over the years both men were relatively healthy and active modern medicine helped hide the age they both felt.
“Thank you for agreeing to meet with me” Canin Rosse said calmly, almost somberly, instantly Victor knew there was something wrong he had hoped that his younger sister Yvonne would be here with the Nova Cat Khan but now he felt the worse.
“How did she pass?” Victor asked instinctively reading Canin’s body language.
“Peacefully, in her sleep, I am told.” The Khan said calmly Victor felt anything but calm Yvonne was his last living sibling he was upset, he felt angry that Yvonne had passed, and by the sound of it, alone.
“You are told?” Victor probed trying to keep his anger in check but failing Canin Rosse glanced up at the First Prince their eyes meeting. Victor saw a wall of sorrow reflected in the Khan’s eyes he missed Yvonne deeply, the First Prince chastised himself for a moment as he remembered, Canin Rosse was not the stereotypical Clanner. “What happened?”
“For over a year there was a virus that ran rampant through New Barcella” Canin explained “nineteen million of our Clan died including Yvonne.” The number staggered Victor Steiner-Davion it would be as if someone had blotted out an entire city in an instant with no survivors he did not know the population numbers of the Nova Cats but even so it must have hurt the Clan. Inside Victor began running numbers the Clan had been quiet for some time other than their attacks on Filtvelt. Their attacks on the Federated Suns and their sudden withdrawal from diplomacy began to make sense the Clan had been reacting to its own internal troubles.
“How was this virus released? New Barcella is exclusively held by your Clan correct?” Victor asked despite the Federated Suns best efforts they had failed to penetrate the Nova Cats secrecy and defence around their Capitol system.
“Aff” Canin replied “we do not know where the virus came from only that it was not manufactured by us. One day it was not there and the next it was.” He explained he omitted that it had taken the resources of multiple Clans to find the cure for the virus before continuing. “We have eradicated the virus now and are rebuilding but there are some losses that cannot be replaced” he said reaching into his jacket pulling out a small black vile. “I do not know your customs but I thought that you should have this” he said placing it on the table Victor did not need the Khan’s explanation to know that it was Yvonne’s ashes. “I have said goodbye to Yvonne I thought that it was only right that you too had the chance.” He said rising from his chair Victor slowly rose too.
“We could discuss so much more” Victor invited putting aside his grief for a moment. “She would have wanted us to leave on good terms” he suggested bringing an instant look of doubt from the Khan.
“It is not the right time” Canin said bowing formally towards the First Prince before turning to leave the room. Victor sunk back into the chair staring at the vile of ash as he wept in grief, aides entered to check on the First Prince, but the Nova Cat Khan had returned to his DropShip and left the Hanse Davion II before Victor rose from the chair again. Once the Nova Cats had returned to their WarShip the Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser quickly jumped clear of the sytem with the Federated Suns Battleship leaving soon after heading back towards home.
Several weeks later back in the Federated Suns First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion scattered Yvonne’s ashes over the Davion family plot on New Avalon returning his sister to the company of her family. There with his wife Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion, their son Prince Burton Davion, his wife Duchess Sterling McKenna-Davion and their family. Fredrick and Jaylen Davion had been unable to attend due to duties to the state but Duchess Sarah Davion, her husband and their son Brian were also in attendance at the closed ceremony Victor had already directed the stone carvers to add the name his sister had lived by to the head stones around the plot “Yvonne Rosse” instead of her birth name “Steiner-Davion.”
Dinner, Calderon Residence
Samantha, Taurus
Taurian Concordat, Periphery
28th January 3104
Governor Chiara Ruggeri stood in the front room of the Calderon Family home residence feeling slightly apprehensive. Protector Erik Martens-Calderon had called on her officially to discuss the political situation in the Concordat but things didn’t seem right the Calderon Family Home had always been a closed palace with only the Calderon family and their most trusted advisors. Chiara was not a trusted advisor of the family and that made her uncomfortable “who are you?” A young female sounding voice asked Chiara glanced around suddenly sighting a small girl dressed in a child’s green dress her distinctive solid black hair and piercing green eyes.
“I am a friend of the Protector” she said
“How can you be a friend of my dad if I don’t know you” she asked moving behind a pillar keeping her eyes on Chiara. Chiara realized that the child was Nicoletta Calderon the Protector’s daughter.
“I know your dad from work” Chiara said “I haven’t been here before.”
“He only takes people here that he really likes” Nicoletta said ducking behind a chair “and he’s never taken a girl here before.” She said moving further around the room Chiara remained standing where she was but tried to keep an eye on the nine year old.
“We’re going to discuss some work” Chiara said as one of Nicoletta’s minders entered and beckoned the young girl over.
“No you’re not” the young child said as she made a show of not wanting to leave while making her way towards the exit “you’re having dinner my daddy is cooking it for you.” She said as the minder pulled her away down the corridor.
“It was notice to meet you” Chiara said watching the child leave. Nicoletta turned away from the minder and waved back towards her before being escorted into another area of the residence. Suddenly Chiara felt very under dressed, she’d expected a meeting not dinner, if she had thought this was something else she might have… she stopped herself mid thought no she wouldn’t she’d have made a show that she couldn’t be treated like a prize and not turned up just to spite the Protector.
Another aide entered from the side room “Governor, the Protector is ready for you” he said formally turning around on the spot leading her into a well set dining room. Erik Martens-Calderon was nowhere to be seen and the aide made no indication on where the Protector was before leaving. After twenty minutes Chiara was becoming frustrated with the Protector as neither he nor the guards had appeared. A Governor of the Taurian Concordat Chiara decided enough was enough standing up she stepped through the door and into the kitchen area inside she found Protector Erik Martens-Calderon attempting to cook them food.
“Protector?” She asked stepping into the kitchen
“I miss timed it sorry” he said checking on the food once again “it should only take a minute or so.” He promised “I hope you like New Vandenburg Buffalo steak?”
“It’s been a while” she admitted New Vandeburg Buffalo steak was expensive to import.
“The Governor sent us a container full as thanks for liberating their home from the Federated Suns I’ve given to the regiments on Samantha and still have enough for months.” He admitted
“Sir, I thought we were going to talk about work…” she began as he took the food out of the oven and moved a large piece onto each plate.
“We can talk about work” Erik said smiling as he placed two large spoonfuls of potatoes on each plate “veg or beans?” He asked reaching for another spoon. “So you wanted to bring your concerns to me?”
“Veg” she said “yes, sire despite our most recent successes on Robstart and Deifenbaker we can’t hope to hold off against the Federated Suns indefinitely.” She began as he poured the veg onto the plate moments later he did the same on his plate followed by a helping of beans over the top he saw her reaction.
“Want some?” He asked she nodded so he poured beans over her plate as well before picking up both plates following her back into the dining room. He placed the plate in front of her before taking his own seat. “Fortunately for you it appears the Federated Suns believe the same as you” he said as she scooped up some food “today the Federated Suns proposed peace between them and us, with no repercussions we hold onto our gains while they hold theirs.”
“Their gains?” Chiara asked
“Yesterday morning AFFS forces landed on Amber Grove, Mithron and Brockway with a message if we continue our war against them they would bring war to the heart of the Concordat.” He said she knew that he meant the Hyades Cluster and Samantha by that it was what the Calderon’s cared about most. “I agreed in principle with a cease fire which I will ask the council to match tomorrow.”
“What about the Capellans?” She asked as he ate some food the Protector looked up some mashed potato stuck to his lower lip. She indicated to his lip and he brushed it to the side.
“I think the Capellan Confederation has more to worry about than us attacking them” Erik said “in the last week the Federated Suns captured Tsitsang, Wei and Shipka while the Free Worlds League threaten eight different systems.” He explained
“All they can hope for is the FedRats and FWL start fighting each other otherwise we could be about to see the twilight of the Capellan Confederation.” Chiara suggested in the last few months the Capellans had lost the majority of their Liao Commonality, including its capital.
“Unlikely the Succession States rarely push each other far enough for destruction the Federated Suns and Free Worlds League will push until the Capellans are crippled and then it will pull back.” Erik suggested remembering Baron Cham Kithrong’s teachings “the Capellans have re-secured Victoria and have driven the Federated Suns from Sirdar. I suspect we will see small conflicts for the immediate future.”
“You know this is quite good” Chiara said eating some more of Erik’s food
“I don’t get to cook as often as I would like” he admitted “although tonight I didn’t do as well as I had hoped.”
“Well then you’ll just have to do better next time?” She suggested Erik inclined his head towards Chiara for a moment washing down some of the steak with a glass of wine he raised it slightly towards her as they continued to eat and drink into the night.
Border Raids
Draconis March, Federated Suns
31st January 3104
With the Federated Suns focus on the Taurian Concordat and the Capellan Confederation elements of the DCMS raid half a dozen worlds of the Draconis March. None of these attacks are intended on claiming territory or destroying Federated Suns units instead the DCMS are testing the AFFS defences and searching for weaknesses.
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O0 nice update!
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Oh very nice update! Seems the Dominion is using C3 in its non-Clan formations (which makes sense really, as the Clanners might look down on it but accept it as the 'clearly inferior' IS pilots need it to help them out).
A touching scene with Cannin and Victor too, I loved the contrast between the characters reactions, with Canin you can see how he's feeling but he controls it, Vic lets it go.
When I read the Taurian part I though "oh she's in trouble...." but nope, if only more official meetings were held like that :)
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Very nice update... wonder what's next?
TT
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I can picture old cache of Exterminators being warmed up in DC, to take care of their Dominion team-up problems. :D
Interesting update! New chapter in the story, with Yvonne passing.
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did I miss something. what are the Ravens working on in their repair ship?
my second question is why did the MW leave that battle wagon in a contested system? could they have taken it with the SLDF help?
the third question is what is the nova cats going to do with the a sakan that is working with the Society?
I just spent the last three months re-reading your whole story. its a great bit of work.
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did I miss something. what are the Ravens working on in their repair ship?
my second question is why did the MW leave that battle wagon in a contested system? could they have taken it with the SLDF help?
the third question is what is the nova cats going to do with the a sakan that is working with the Society?
I just spent the last three months re-reading your whole story. its a great bit of work.
It's actually the Horses that are helping out but they are fixing the Silver Talon an upgraded Nightlord II-class Battleship.
The Nightlord was crippled I meant to explain it more in detail in its own scene but honestly didn't get around to it :-[ ship was not somewhere it could be jumped and its engines were crippled.
If the SLDF had brought in their Newgrange they could have fixed it up but the system was always contested by the Falcons
We'll I'm not sure if she's Society but she's certainly something different for the Nova Cat leadership.
I'm glad you enjoyed the timeline more to come soon
New chapter in the story
That's actually a good title for 3104 there's a few things going to change in this AU in the coming updates....
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wonder what's next?
This
Exploration Mission, Talisman (Buccaneer-class DropShip)
Horikawa, Independent System
Periphery
5th February 3104
The Fronc Reaches employed exploration DropShip Talisman flew through a system that from what they could tell was completely devoid of life. Captain Ken Gluwe leaned back in his chair watching the screens seeing nothing the only reason they were heading into this system was because their JumpShip had detected what looked like a quantity of germanium, the critical element that was needed in the construction of KF Drives, if they could locate a large enough vain of the mineral the entire crew could retire to anywhere they wished and live a life of luxury.
“We’re coming up on the readings” his pilot Kathleen Shoda said turning around in her chair “higher than normal metal content as well, possible power signatures.” She said turning back to her screens “it could be a dead JumpShip or WarShip or an inhabited moon system around the gas giant.” She suggested
“Just our usual amount of trouble” their navigator Anton Belyaev joked as the DropShip closed into sensor range “or something completely different…” He said shocked at what his screens were displaying.
The Talisman closed on their target up ahead which turned out to be not a vain of germanium but instead a massive space station. “I see where we got those readings from” Kathleen said as the DropShip continued to close “there are two Invader type JumpShips and maybe a Wagon Wheel type WarShip that have been connected to what looks like a Shoden type space station.” She said looking over the screens “our systems are struggling to pick out which part belongs to what.” She said the Talisman was not a normal Buccaneer over the years the DropShip had been modified with more powerful sensors and a small craft bay.
“We got incoming!” Anton called out as four small craft launched from the space station and began heading towards them “they are of an unknown classification; we’re reading a mix of lasers, missiles and conventional autocannons. Enough to ruin our day” he said Ken looked at the screen and knew that there was no way the Talisman could outrun the small craft and that if any of the Wagon Wheel’s original capital weapons had remained operational the DropShip would be close enough to be targeted.
“Signal our surrender” Ken ordered there was no point in trying to run away from the small craft or the station and he wanted answers to who these people were.
Several hours later Ken and the other twenty-two members of his crew were in a holding room on board the space station mercifully they had placed them on one of the station’s huge gravity decks. Finally the door opened and a young woman, he said young she looked in her early twenties but Ken knew that space living wore on the human body less than life in a gravity well, she had brown-red hair and wore a plain brown jumpsuit. “Who commands here?” She asked
“I’m the commander of the Talisman” Ken said stepping forward “but you command here.”
“Welcome to The Ark” she said “please follow me” she said turning around Ken glanced around his crew for a moment meeting each of their eyes with a look several of them nodded back to him before he walked out into the corridor. The mystery woman had already began walking down the corridor Ken realized after a moment that they were along there were no guards beyond his guide.
“An impressive facility you have here” Ken said as they walked she nodded but otherwise did not reply. Moving through the facility Ken began to realize just how large “The Ark” was as they continued on down the corridor entering another large room inside there was only a single large dark skinned man.
“Welcome on board the Ark Captain Gluwe I am Kommandant Lincoln Champlin” he said stepping forward extending his hand Ken Gluwe stood his ground and met the man’s hand shaking it.
“Thank you Kommandant it’s an impressive facility” Ken said releasing the man’s hand trying to massage the blood back into his own Lincoln Champlin had a strong grip. “I didn’t think anything like this existed in the Periphery?”
“Or anywhere else” Champlin said he had a deep voice that Ken found oddly reassuring.
“The Galax Floating Tower and perhaps the famous shipyards that remain in the Inner Sphere rival it in size and complexity” he said “but there is nothing like this station it's cobbled together from JumpShips and Space Stations.” He said impressed with what he had seen.
“Originally this was a deep space Taurian Mining Colony” he explained “three of the moons which are around this gas giant hold exotic minerals which once upon a time were in high demand by the Taurians.” Champlin said “when the Succession Wars hit the Taurians had a lot interest in the materials that were here so the two mining stations and small ground colony were largely abandoned.” He said “in the first day of the Second Succession War the Wagon Wheel Fredrickson jumped into the system. The ship had somehow survived a battle with House Davion and her surviving crewmen had chosen to leave Taurian service.”
“They went rogue?” Ken asked shocked “weren’t they afraid of Taurian retribution?”
“Everyday” Champlin admitted “but the attack never came” he explained “the crew grew old the remains of their WarShip slowly became less and less space worthy. Then after about fifty years the people of Horikawa decided to try and salvage what they could of the two Showden Mining Stations and the Fredrickson by docking them together.” He said telling the story of The Ark’s construction in his mind Ken could imagine seeing the hulks slowly coming together maneuvered by skilled crews and fearless tug drivers. “That took three weeks” he explained “they wanted to make sure it would last so once the three were docked for transit they immediately began welding the docking collars so they would be permanently closed.” He said “even as the first people from the ground were coming up to the station the engineers were breaking down several of the DropShips plugging the hull breaches in the Fredickson and continuing to expand the deck space.”
“It must quite a sense of achievement” Ken said
“It was” Champlin said “over the years three JumpShips entered they system. One was convinced to peacefully join the Ark’s people while the other two were overrun by our Defence Teams.” He explained showing Ken that the Ark’s people could defend themselves and that they had.”
“What happened to those crews?” Ken asked saying what he had been thinking.
“They were landed on the second moon of the gas giant it is habitable if a little cold” Champlin explained “it was the site of one of the original Taurian mines. The crews were marooned on the planet along with four DropShips which had been drained of their fuel.” He said “their descendants remain on the moon today some of them still in those DropShips others in the mines below we maintain contact with them and often exchange supplies.”
“But you still live apart?”
“Yes they are used to ‘real’ gravity while my people love space.” He said “there are almost three hundred thousand people in this system the majority live on that moon but we control space this station and that I can guarantee will not be changing.” He said his deep voice showing a deadly edge that surprised Ken. “And then we come to you”
“We are from the Fronc Reaches” Ken said seeing that Champlin had little to no realization on who that was “originally we were known as the New Colony Region a joint initiative to colonize the region between the Taurian Concordat and the Magistracy of Canopus. Over time the New Colony Region found itself wishing for a path that set it apart from that of the states that had founded it until we decided to stand alone.” He said “recently we have expanded into several systems controlled that had been controlled by the Taurians and while that was a good first step now my government wish to expand into other systems.”
“Horikawa included?” Champlin asked his voice neutral once more
“Only if we are welcome” Ken explained “the Taurian systems that joined us welcome membership in the Fronc Reaches we are not hostile to others instead we would prefer to expand through respect and cooperation. Much like the ideals your people shared when they built the Ark.” He suggested trying to appeal to the dark man’s history making the most out of this negotiation.
“What could you bring us that we don’t already have?” Champlin challenged
“Exotic foods, tourism from beyond your system, advanced weaponry, spare parts.” Ken suggested “now across the Inner Sphere and into the periphery WarShips are returning” he said noticing the surprise across Lincoln Champlin’s face. “There are systems on board this station that I would assume you cannot replace?” Ken asked knowing the answer the people of the Ark wouldn’t have continued to include parts from other ships if the original station could have survived on its own instead they had used what they could to build their home. “The Fronc Reaches is in the position to negotiate for these parts with other nations, a far stronger position than Horikawa could attain itself.” He said he knew he was possibly over playing their position slightly but he knew that the Fronc Reaches place would be better off than Horikawa alone.
“And what could we offer the Fronc Reaches?” Champlin asked
“The exotic resources you spoke of are a start; we could sell them for a profit, while those small craft you approached us with could be quite profitable for your system there are many systems in the Periphery that could use them as a basic defence.” Ken suggested
“Your nation could take us onto the galactic stage” Champlin said quietly “while helping us maintain our home” he said his deep voice sounding softer now “that is an attractive idea to me and I am sure it would be as attractive to other members of our leadership. I will have you returned to your crew Captain while I discuss our future with the others.”
Several weeks later Horikawa and The Ark were inducted into the Fronc Reaches as two separate members of the state with the planet’s population and the space station’s people each given a voice in the Fronc Reaches. The system agrees to join the peripher nation on the condition that the Fronc Reaches keep the secret of where the system was from the other powers while also agreeing to transfer resources to the Fronc Reaches and to sell the Pretender-class Small craft to the nation.
Downtown Randis City
Hope, Nova Cat’s Den
Periphery
14th February 3104
Christian Nova Cat glanced through his messages he’d worked all day and now was the time to relax his wife Megan was making them and their son food. She entered the main room of their small home with some steaming food placing it down on the table. “What’s wrong?” She asked looking at him
“I got the promotion” he said Christian worked at the Hope Industrial Works and had been trying to get promoted by their parent Clan since the Nova Cats took over Randis.
“Then why do you look unhappy” she said sitting down opposite him.
“It’s on New Barcella”
“New Barcella” she almost spat leaving the world’s name hanging in the air every citizen of the Nova Cat's Den knew the trouble that had befallen the Clan's capital world. “What about us?” She asked he knew she meant herself and their son Dominic.
“It doesn’t say” he said looking over the document not seeing anything that would indicate his family’s travel.
“They can’t do this to you” she said after a few moments standing up angrily. Almost perfectly on cue there was a heavy knock on the door. Still standing Megan stepped closer to the door and opened it revealing a smartly dressed member of the Nova Cat warrior caste he was young perhaps nineteen or twenty years old and had short cropped dark hair “can I help you?”
“You are Megan?”
“Aff I am” she said answering him in the appropriate Clan answer.
“Good this is for you” he said handing her an envelope “have a good night.” He said stepping away Megan swung the door closed then turned towards Christian opening the envelope reading the details inside. “We’re being moved to New Barcella, me and Dominic, within the next three weeks.” She said there were tears in her eyes.
“They cannot do this, this home has been in your family since the foundation of Hope” Christian said angrily rising from his chair stomping towards the door. Swinging the door open Christian took two steps outside seeing the Clan officer further down the street he was about to chase after the Clansmen but Megan’s arm snared his Christian was about to ask why but his eyes saw her outstretched arm pointing down the street. Several doors along the street were several squads of fully armed infantry troopers and at least one infantry fighting vehicle this “peaceful” relocation was backed up with some heavy firepower.
“They control the guns” she said finally pulling him back inside. Over the course of the next six months this was a scene repeated across the Nova Cat’s Den as the Nova Cats attempted to bring people with the right skills to New Barcella. In the rare occurrences where the civilians resisted the move the Clan’s Touman reacted quickly to arrest, and in many cases execute, those who were working against the Nova Cat’s commands. Word of the relocation's filtered out to the nearby nations. The Intelligence masters of the Nova Cat’s rivals passed this back to their agents working inside the Nova Cat’s Den and urged them to try to join this relocation in an attempt to locate New Barcella unfortunately the Nova Cats were very selective in who they brought with them to their capitol system.
Genetic’s research facility
Ford, Wolf Empire
22nd February 3104
Life with the Wolves had not been bad for Dr Dana Wolf she had learned more about Genetics in the short time she’d been with the Clan than she’d learned in all her training on Terra. Inside scientist facilities she had full autonomy and was allowed to go where she liked when she liked moving down the corridor she suddenly felt a pair of hands grab her by the shoulders and pull her into a side room. Dana began to scream and then saw it was Marc Wolf “what are you doing here?” She asked in a rapid whisper.
“You need to get out of here now” he said in a commanding voice.
“Why?”
“There are things coming things that you, and our children, cannot be part of” Marc said how he knew she was pregnant was beyond her but Marc was already moving “follow me. If anyone says anything you are under my command.” He said leading her from the facility and into a nearby ground car. From the scientist facility Marc drove quickly to the DropPort she learned that Marc now held the rank of Star Captain and was in line to fight for the Ward bloodname when a position within the bloodhouse was available. At the DropPort Marc did not stop instead he drove straight into a Union-class DropShip.
“What is going on?” She demanded as he stopped the vehicle inside the DropShip.
“I have booked you a position as this ship’s medical officer” Marc explained “this ship will take you to Solaris VII and from there you will be free of the Wolves.” He said looking at her.
“Come with me” she asked but the Wolf warrior shook his head
“I am a Wolf” he said even though she could see he did not want to remain away from her. Dana leaned over and embraced the Wolf warrior before reluctantly leaving the ground car. Nearly an hour later the DropShip lifted off from Ford heading for a JumpShip and then on towards Solaris VII. Nearly two months later in late April the DropShip arrived on Solaris VII and Dr Dana Wolf turned herself over to the SLDF authorities on the planet. Dr Dana Carlyle was rapidly returned to Glengarry once there on the Carlyle family estate Dana decided to remove herself from the mercenary trade once and for all by selling her family’s mercenary Regiment, the Grey Death Legion, to the Brewer family of Hesperus II. Instead she chose to concentrate on caring for her unborn child, in ruling Glengarry for the Steiner family and running Grey Death Technologies, the Battle Armour factory founded by Legion techs.
Public Announcement, Duke Bannister Cameron’s residence
Liberty, Star League Protectorate
28th February 3104
Despite officially being retired from the SLDF Duke Bannister Cameron often appeared in public wearing his SLDF uniform when he appeared on the tri-vid screen wearing a simple black suit, white shirt and tie everyone knew that there was something wrong. “Ladies and Gentlemen I am Bannister Cameron and today I bring you grave news” he said glancing down his lack of rank or title adding to the words that something terrible had happened. “Today it is my duty to announce that Governor Archer Kendrick Christifori has passed away in his sleep the world, his homeworld, of Thorin.” He said allowing the moment to pass for a moment.
“Governor Archer Christifori was a hero to the Inner Sphere he was a former-Commanding-General of the Star League Defence Force, a hero of the Clan War, a husband and a father and he will be missed by all of those who knew him.” He said pausing for a moment. “Archer was my superior, my colleague, my rival and my friend.” Bannister said “there are many who feel the same way and everyone will have the opportunity to say goodbye. His body will lie in state at The Fort facility on Thorin for the duration of March with his funeral to take place in early April. I ask that all who wish to pay their respects do so. God bless Archer Christifori, the Christifori family, and the Star League Defence Force.” He said signing off ending the transmission.
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Wow, Nova Cats are causing serious waves with it's labor/civilian casts. Not as progressive as they use to be.
By killing their people, their going turn into another Jade Falcons. Stupid.
Nice update.
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Wow, Nova Cats are causing serious waves with it's labor/civilian casts. Not as progressive as they use to be.
By killing their people, their going turn into another Jade Falcons. Stupid.
Nice update.
I just hope the kan is giving someone enough rope to hang herself real good. I hope... I hope... I hope
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In the rare occurrences where the civilians resisted the move the Clan’s Touman reacted quickly to arrest, and in many cases execute, those who were working against the Nova Cat’s commands.
You will note that the arrests/executions happened rarely. The Nova Cats have 32 inhabited systems (including the territory held in the Davetal system and Lothan near Tukayyid). The times they killed the civies was far smaller than the times things went well. (well to those who didn't get shot that is :D) That said Katrine's tactics are different from what other Nova Cats may have employed
Anything else of interest from this update?
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nice update! The SaKhan needs to learn and understand more inter-caste relations! A Wolf Warrior making sure his inner sphere love gets away and a nice new periphery space station? These are very surprising updates!
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This new station is very interesting, and the SaKhan's going about things more like a Jaguar would, forced rellocation etc, and the choice of people seems very deliberate, possibly an attempt to get the Spheroids to breed?
Its a shame the relationship between Dana and Marc ended so abruptly, but that she managed to get off world and escape is a good thing.
A question about Bannister Cameron, is he directly related to the Cameron bloodline or is he just someone with the same surname? Because I still think the SLDF could go "Yeah Hegemony's back, we've got a Cameron and everything." and say the SLDF controlled space is now the Hegemony again.
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Profile Update:
Head of Star League Protectorate: Duke Bannister Cameron
Governor Bannister Cameron: has been in command of the Second since the unit was stationed in the Concordat several centuries ago. A distant relation to the Cameron family he was exiled to an obscure base in the periphery for his views on “that Amaris swine” which the First Lord disagreed with. He is a graduate of both the West Point and Sandhurst military academies with a Military Law Degree. Blessed with an innate charisma and leadership ability, his troops would follow him to hell and back if he led the way. The second reason for his Taurian deployment was his name which brought much needed funding to his unit’s project. If Bannister had stepped forward as a living embodiment of the Cameron name it is unlikely that he would have garnered the support needed to rule due to his complete lack of political standing. Bannister’s lack of interest in politics has long been known.
In 3085 he traveled to see the Goliath Scorpion’s Chi Galaxy which was based on Kentares. The Chi Galaxy or the Seeker Galaxy was interested in the Second Royal Armoured Cavalry and its history. While in 3086 he became leader of the Star League Protectorate. In that same year Andrea Kincaid officially stepped down from her position as Bannister's aide as the two admitted they had feelings for each other. In 3090 they became parents to twin children Jeremy Kincaid and Nicola Cameron. After he stepped down from command of the Second Royal Armoured Cavalry Division he became Governor of Liberty and then of the Star League Protectorate before becoming First Lord in 3098. For a man who was never interested in politics he has grown to embrace the rule as leader of the Protectorate dedicated to protecting the people of the Protectorate and expanding it if able.
Bannister’s main actions have been directed at rebuilding the Marine HQ on Liberty and building up the facilities available to the SLDF. Since the Second Royal Armoured Cavalry’s arrival Liberty has become a focal point for training for the SLDF while Camp Pendleton has increased in size to include a growing metropolitan area, which is largely focused on the dependents and support of the Cavalry Division, which has brought thousands of jobs to the world of Liberty. These actions alone have gained Bannister Cameron a good public image as has his continued use of his military uniform despite being officially retired from the SLDF according to Bannister wearing the uniform stops him thinking about being retired.
Updated Unit Profile
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/factions/2nd-royal-armoured-cavalry-division/msg40711/#msg40711 (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/factions/2nd-royal-armoured-cavalry-division/msg40711/#msg40711)
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Small update leading to bigger things...
Captain’s Quarters (Subtlety MOD-class Battleship)
Nadir Point, Cole Harbour
Magistracy of Canopus
10th March 3104
The door chime sounded to Captain William Leroy-Detrich’s quarters the Captain hadn’t expected a visitor but called out anyway “it’s open come in” he said the door opened a moment later and Commander America Park entered the room saluting as she saw him. He had told her on several occasions that she was a guest onboard his ship and did not need to salute him but she continued to anyway. “America, it’s good to see you” he said greeting the younger woman “all packed?”
“Not quite” she admitted “I’ve contacted the Magistracy Armed Forces High Command and sold my commission.” She said the Magistracy of Canopus had a strange system where officers could invest in their own promotions for America to have sold her promotion was quite a step.
“Why would you do that?” He asked surprised at her move
“What the Magistracy could offer me no longer appealed” America admitted she had never joined the Magistracy through loyalty to the Centrella family or the Magistracy. “I joined the armed forces to see some of the Magistracy, to learn and to make myself a better person. I don’t think they can help me move to the next level.”
“And who do you believe can help you?”
“Subtlety” America said “I believe this College can help me move forward and I think I can help you.” She said “I know the Inner Sphere better than you do especially the Free Worlds League” she promised him William looked dubious. “My last holiday was to Wisconsin beautiful waterfalls.”
“I don’t think we were planning on traveling through that system.” He said but he raised his hand to forestall a further argument. “You’re in Commander, welcome aboard, we’ll figure out what your duties are after the next jump.” He said America Park smiled broadly before coming to attention saluting him properly for the first time before leaving the room. Soon after their meeting Subtlety completed its jump out of the Magistracy of Canopus and into the Free Worlds League’s District of Oriente.
Command Centre Werewolf (McKenna-class Battleship)
Arc Royal, Arc Royal Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
18th March 3104
“Emergence wave!”
“Right on time” Khan Amina Kerensky said smiling broadly “I really did not expect your Uncle Vic to sign off on this” she said looking over at Archon Jessica Steiner.
“It was more an agreement between Kathil Shipworks and your Clan” Jessica answered looking at the screens which showed an Avalon Block II-class Cruiser. “Are you sure you wish to do this Khan Kerensky? The price that you are paying for that ship could allow the Mountain Wolves to form an entire Galaxy.”
“Aff that is true” Amina admitted “but when the Jade Falcons come across the border with a Battleship we need something more than a couple of Corvettes and this ship.” She said since the Mountain Wolves lost the Implacable they had been reduced in WarShip numbers to the Werewolf and two Corvettes as combat assets. The Full Moon, a Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser, was maintained in reserve with orders to avoid combat wherever possible and to evacuate as many Mountain Wolves as possible if Arc Royal was to ever fall to the Jade Falcon advance.
“The Lyran nation could have given you a vessel in trade you did not need to go to the Federated Suns for this deal” Jessica said looking at the Avalon immediately remembering her own vessel of that class, the Archon’s Pride, which had been lost fighting the Jade Falcons.
“Aff we could have Archon” Amina admitted before pausing for a moment she did not wish to insult the Lyran leader with her next words. “We have a strong relationship with your nation” she said “and as such I know that you have no use for a Vincent-class Corvette in your navy. Already your nation benefits from a good relationship with my Mountain Wolf manufacturers so I also know that you do not need our technology.” She said “Kathil Shipworks desired the Killing Blow, I do not know why and I honestly did not ask too many questions” the Khan admitted “my Clan needed something that could come close to rivalling the power of the Implacable. That ship” she said pointing to the screens “that ship has the potential to fill that position.” She said her smile showing the Archon that this Wolf had not lost all of her tricks with position, not that Jessica Steiner should complain much the Avalon would soon take its position on the Jade Falcon border defending her nation. In exchange for this vessel the Wolves had agreed to transfer the Killing Blow, several Isegrim Assault DropShips and quantities of Clan grade equipment to the Federated Suns command over the next three years starting with the immediate transfer of the Killing Blow to Kathil Shipworks.
What Kathil wished with the Wolf WarShip was anyone’s guess but the Federated Suns had a large enough navy to experiment with such things. The Lyran nation on the other hand needed every gun it could lay its hand on especially with the renewed fighting against Jade Falcon forces on Bluque, Wroclaw, Inucalns and Dukambie. Initial reports suggested that Bluque would remain a Lyran holding and that the Jade Falcons would be forced to retreat from the system. The Archon had come here directly after defeating the Jade Falcons on Dukambie but on Wroclaw and Inucalns the Jade Falcons had been triumphant.
Isle of Skye Raid
Rochelle, Wolf Empire
24th March 3104
With other elements of the LCAF fighting off Clan Jade Falcon the Isle of Skye Military attempt to show that they are just as capable by raiding the world of Rochelle, which is controlled by Clan Wolf, the First Isle of Skye Guards RCT supported by the Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser LCS William Steiner enter the system on the morning of the 20th March finding two Wolf JumpShips charging their drives.
On detecting the intruders DropShips aerospace fighters and DropShips from the two JumpShips engaged the LCS William Steiner while the First Isle of Skye Guards streams towards the planet. In a short battle the LCS William Steiner destroys two Union C-class DropShips and forces a Carrier-class DropShip to surrender clearing the way for the Lyran conquest of the planet.
The Isle of Skye Guards landed on the planet four days later finding their landings uncontested by the Wolf defenders. Confident that they would be bringing Rochelle back into the Lyran, and Skye, fold the First Guards moved on the planetary capital. An hour later as they reached the outskirts of the capital the penny which had been hanging over the invasion dropped as the 341st Assault Cluster of Clan Wolf revealed itself. The Silver Blizzard, as it was known to the Wolves, had been destroyed and rebuild a dozen times but could trace its linage back to the original Star League Defence Force. It had been reformed in 3094 as part of reformed to the Clan Wolf Touman as a “perfect” Cluster with five Trinaries of Mechs and Battle Armour supported by aerospace units. Without warning the Silver Blizzard’s aerospace units engaged the Isle of Skye aerospace forces tearing into the invaders at the same time as the Wolf ground forces moved on the Isle of Skye ground forces.
While the First Isle of Skye Guards BattleMech regiment had been built as a premier unit of the Isle of Skye military with heavy and assault Mechs bought from Hesperus II and other Lyran factories by the nobility of Skye the unit’s armour and infantry support regiments had been formed cheaply by siphoning companies off of militias across the region. The RCT had also never fought together outside of a training simulation leading to instant trouble as they engaged Clan Wolf for the first time. The Silver Blizzard concentrated fire on the First Guards’ Assault Mechs to start with striking them at long range with heavy fire cutting down an entire company within a couple of minutes. Then the Wolves charged all of the Mechs and battle armour of the Silver Blizzard had been painted exactly the same with silver being the dominant colour supported by white and light blue. As the Wolves closed on their targets Elementals launched themselves from the OmniMechs into the air and like swirling snowflakes of a blizzard they slammed into the Isle of Skye Mechs immediately tearing open the Lyran Mechs.
Within an hour the First Isle of Skye Guards BattleMech regiment had been reduced to less than a battalion of active Mechs. Leaving the armour and infantry to fight in a rearguard action falling back to their DropShips high above the Silver Blizzard’s aerospace units tore the Isle of Skye fighters from the air quickly gaining air superiority. Three hours after the Isle of Skye Regimental Combat Team had arrived on the planet two companies of Mechs, five armour battalions and a couple of hundred infantry troopers boarded their DropShip in what could only be described as a rout as Clan Wolf once more proved it was more than capable of defending its Empire.
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nice to see the MW getting another warship. the Dragoons might want to start looking at building some space support on that planet in the old FWL... just in case
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Trading a Vincent and some mechs and tech for a Avalon block II, sounds like a damn good deal to me for the Wolves and as was pointed out, they need it. They are running out of Warships and the Vincent no longer has any line anywhere near hostile fire.
The raid on the Isle of Skye was a point in case of getting the door slammed on your head and then kicked in the gut whilst you're down. Thankfully the Empire didn't have any major orbital assets or I doubt any of the Lyrans would have gotten out.
As always, excellent stuff! :)
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nice to see the MW getting another warship. the Dragoons might want to start looking at building some space support on that planet in the old FWL... just in case
There are bigger things the proper Wolves are interested in... >:D
Trading a Vincent and some mechs and tech for a Avalon block II, sounds like a damn good deal to me for the Wolves and as was pointed out, they need it.
It was "cheap" ??? 8)
Attached is a unit assignment table for the SLDF and the Succession States at present (the unit's are HQ'ed on these planets but elements maybe seen on other planets)
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Citizen’s Council
Alshian, Rasalhague Dominion
Clan Occupation Zones
4th April 3104
The Rasalhague Dominion announce the formation of the Citizen’s Council a place where the lower castes of the Rasalhague Dominion can bring their ideas, opinions and concerns to the warrior caste leadership of Clan Ghost Bear without fear of reprisal. The Citizen’s Council have no power to make laws or to make rulings on the goings on inside the Dominion but it does give a voice to the non-warriors of the nation.
Funeral
Thorin, Star League Protectorate
10th April 3104
From across the Inner Sphere, the Periphery and Clan occupied space people gather on Thorin to mourn the passing of Archer Kendrick Christifori, former SLDF Commanding-General and the Governor of Terra. The Star League attempt to use the funeral as a way to bring the the Inner Sphere nations to peace unfortunately while First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion, his son Prince Burton Davion and a pregnant Duchess Kym Hasek of the Capellan March were all present the Capellan Confederation refused to send a single representative to the funeral showing their continued disdain for anything related to the Star League Defence Force. Also missing from the funeral is Captain-General Joseph Marik who instead attends the birth of his daughter Ruth Marik on the world that shared her name instead Duke Jonas Halas of the District of Oriente represents the Free Worlds League.
In keeping with a new tradition for Thorin replacing Archer Christifori, with his wife Katya Christifori’s permission, retired SLDF Major-General Caradoc Travena becomes the new Governor of Thorin. With Caradoc Travena, another Lyran national who had served in the SLDF, as their new leader it further tied Thorin to the Star League and to the Protectorate.
Mercenary Contract
Alula Australis, Star League Protectorate
21st April 3104
Using intelligence gained from their battle on New Home in November 3103 the Avanti’s Angels Mercenary Battalion launch an attack on a suspected Word of Blake extremists hold-out on Alula Australis. Going on the attack as soon as they were in position the mercenary command quickly overwhelm and destroy a reinforced company of raiders using classic Word of Blake BattleMechs and Battle Armour. Over the course of nearly an hour the Avanti’s Angels constantly press the raiders forcing them to react to the mercenaries never losing the initiative.
Like their actions New Earth the assault on the Alula Australis compound is for a private contract and not the SLDF meaning the Avanti’s Angels assault catches the local guard regiment completely by surprise. By the time the SLDF defenders arrive the mercenaries are clearing the final rooms of the compound as the extremists fight room to room in their defence. Following the end of the fighting the Avanti’s Angels are briefly placed under arrest by the SLDF as they attempt to determine exactly what happened within the compound. An SLIC investigation confirms the mercenary’s belief that this was a Word of Blake extremist’s stronghold and training camp the Avanti’s Angels are awarded the salvage rights they had been promised through their contract. The mercenaries then left heading towards their next contract in the Magistracy of Canopus striking at Marian and pirate forces in the contested region between the Magistracy of Canopus and the Marian Hegemony which was growing in its scale and intensity.
Within the Star League Protectorate deeper questions are asked like how a Word of Blake stronghold had been allowed to remain on Star League soil? How many other strongholds could there be and how the Avanti’s Angels had been able to launch an attack on a Protectorate world without the local Guard unit being aware?
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Wow, no wonder the Capellans are being pushed to the brink, the Suns mobilizing half their federalized units can reach almost parity with the entirety of the federalized Capellan units.
I look forward to seeing the clan and periphery units, though suspect it will take at least as long, and possibly longer to see those.
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is it bad that I log in an check this board a few times each day?
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is it bad that I log in an check this board a few times each day?
I do that as well. We're not addicted..we can stop any time we want...*coughs*
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Wow, no wonder the Capellans are being pushed to the brink, the Suns mobilizing half their federalized units can reach almost parity with the entirety of the federalized Capellan units.
I look forward to seeing the clan and periphery units, though suspect it will take at least as long, and possibly longer to see those.
I'll work on it
It's not an update but it's something else from the timeline
The Jade Falcon/Coyote Mississippi-class Battleship
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=53082.new#new (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=53082.new#new)
marauder648 if you're not addicted then I need to be committed
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Throne Room, Robinson
Robinson, Draconis March
Federated Suns
2nd May 3104
Duke Jerome Sandoval approached the throne of the Draconis March, the seat of the Sandoval family here on Robinson, sitting there was twenty-four year old Duchess Elaine Sandoval eldest child of Jerome’s cousin Tancred. To Jerome the young woman in front of him did not look well she’d cut her long dark hair short and dyed it red to Jerome it didn’t suit her she wore a simple green jumpsuit without any markings at all. Deep circles around her eyes indicated that recent raids on the March by suspected Draconis Combine forces had taken a toll on the young duchess’ sleep patterns.
“It’s good to see you Elaine” he said stopping short of approaching the throne.
“Uncle Jerome” she greeted him although not a blood uncle to her he’d always been a friend to her father when she was growing up and it was an affectionate term she’d used for him for years. “You know why you are here” she said it was not a question everyone in the March probably knew why Jerome was on Robinson today.
“I do” he said “are you sure about this Elaine?”
“I am” she said rising from the throne chair “I never wanted to lead the March, my father knew this, it was always going to be Duncan’s to lead.” She explained naming her sixteen year old brother who had taken early admittance to the AFFS just a month before. “Unfortunately fate intervened in the plan.” She said refusing to name the Bounty Hunter who was the instrument of that fate.
“It may be your brother’s in the future Elaine” Jerome promised “if he wishes to command this March I will make sure he is ready for the job.”
“That’s all I can ask thank your Uncle” she said stepping away from the throne.
“What will you do?” He asked remaining rooted to the spot watching her with his eyes.
“Go back to my studies I think I made a far better art student than a politican.” She said moving over she hugged her Uncle for a moment before heading towards the exit of the room. As she approached two Cavalier Battle Armoured troopers saluted the leaving Duchess before resuming their guard of the room. Jerome for his part stood in the room for several more minutes looking at the throne before finally ascending the flight of four steps up to the chair assuming his position as head of the Draconis March.
Second Battle of Incukalns
Incukalns, Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
Clan Occupied Space
19th May 3104
Clan Jade Falcon had driven deep into the Lyran Commonwealth the deepest point being Incukalns a system without a single thing of note other than it was capable of supporting human life. According to Lyran Commonwealth Intelligence the Jade Falcons had failed to defend their recently claimed system well enough placing not a single WarShip in the system while only two damaged clusters of ground troops defended the ground unforately they were wrong.
As an SLDF, Lyran and mercenary assault force arrived in the system at the Nadir Point they were immediately confronted by the Jade Falcon’s Turkina’s Might a recently commissioned Mississippi-class Battleship, a class which was itself based on the original Star League-era Texas-class. When the Turkina’s Might had detected not only a Lyran WarShip but also an SLDF vessel the Jade Falcon vessel had immediately engaged with its weapons and aerospace fighters shattering three JumpShips and crippling several DropShips before the assault force had recovered from their.
In the confusion caused by the vessel’s assault the Battleship was able to withdraw to extreme range where it could continue to pick at the assault force. The SLDF’s SLS St Patrick, a Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser, and the LCS Lightning, a Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser, attempted to shield the ground forces by taking long range shots at the larger Falcon WarShip but there was little chance that the two Heavy Cruisers could do telling damage without closing range significantly or resorting to the use of nuclear weapons.
While the Lyran Regiment commander called for the use of nuclear weapons this argument was rendered mute when another Jade Falcon WarShip the Night Talon emerged from behind the planet of Incukalns. The WarShip which was completing supply runs to the planet would be more than combat ready before the liberating forces arrived at the planet instead the Inner Sphere forces turned their focus away from attack and instead towards survival. With three crippled JumpShips they had no choice transferring crew and as much supplies as they could off of several DropShips the invaders sent six cargo DropShips on ballistic collision course with the Turkina’s Might intending on distracting the Battleship long enough to allow the invasion force to escape.
As the six DropShips approached the Battleship the Jade Falcon WarShip concentrated its fire on them allowing the Lyran and SLDF vessels to escape the system before they received further heavy damage. The six DropShips without crews to guide them had little to no chance of hitting the WarShip and they fell quickly to the massed naval laser fire of the Ares Might.
The Jade Falcons declared the action in the Incukalns system a victory for their Clan as they had stopped the Inner Sphere forces reaching the planet but the repercussions went far further than the little known system. On both Tharkad and Terra questions were raised by both nations to why neither have a Battleship of their own to answer that of the Jade Falcons. Where the Clan had invested in not one Battleship design of their own they had also gained the Nightlord II deign from the Snow Ravens while the Lyran Commonwealth continued to rely on the Mjolnir-class Battle-cruiser and the Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser for their muscle. In the SLDF Navy the largest vessel they could call on was the Enterprise II-class Super Carrier an excellent vessel but still the only vessel of its class while the rest of their vessels were a mix of Heavy Cruisers and Battle-cruisers or smaller vessels. Both the SLDF and LCAF noted that virtually every other nation had an active Battleship in their armadas, or in the Free Worlds League’s case had one under construction, leading to severe rethinks by both armies.
Elsewhere analysts note that the Inner Sphere is approaching a position it was once in before when a well placed WarShip could determine the outcome of an entire invasion. They note that the only way to counter these vessels will be to bring a vessel of equal or greater capabilities, bring more vessels than your opponent could employ, or to follow the example of the Capellan Confederation in the widespread deployment of nuclear weapons against naval assets and if possible against their construction and support structures. They note that while the BattleMech remains the king of any battlefield it steps on getting to that battlefield was becoming more and more difficult with the prolification of naval assets across the Succession States and the Clans.
Merc’s Tavern, Gravity Deck 4
Galatea Station, Galatea
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
22nd May 3104
Justin Rubinsky the commander of the reborn Rubinsky’s Light Horse Mercenary Battalion stood at the end of a table full of members of his battalion with a drink raised. “Ladies and Gentlemen we are staying in the Commonwealth” he said confirming their first contract had been signed. All along table the officers and warriors tapped twice sending the noise echoing through the establishment from all around the room people turned to look at the command. Through the bar a middle aged man with oriental features moved over to be standing beside Justin. “Can I help you” he asked maintaining his calm the male was from either the Capellan Confederation or somewhere close.
“Would you mind my people are trying to say goodbye to those we have lost”
“Well carry on” Justin said confidently “we’re celebrating a new start for our people.” He said looking at the older man.
“I wish you well then” he said extending his hand “Sang-shao Matt Blackledge” he said introducing himself.
“Sang-shoa? Capellan Confederation Armed Forces?” He asked looking at the man he lacked any insignia of the Capellan Confederation.
“Formerly” Blackledge said “we were abandoned by the CCAF on Zion. Now we have a new path.”
“Formally… so you went rogue…” Justin Rubinsky said
“Just like you did Mr Rubinsky” Blackledge teased “last I heard you were enlisted with the AFFS just like your brother.”
“Your intelligence is good” Justin admitted “but I have since tendered my resignation and reformed the Rubinsky’s Light Horse” he said the other members of the unit tapped the table two more times.
“And you just have to make us all aware” Blackledge said becoming irritated as if to reinforce his point the other members of the Light Horse banged the table two more times further irritating Blackledge. From behind the former Capellan officer further members of his unit approached as they did the other members of the Light Horse rose from their chairs while other patrons of the unit looked their way.
Justin Rubinsky wasn’t exactly sure who had thrown the first punch but almost within the blink of an eye the two units were embroiled in a brawl that would have been at home in any bar throughout history where two rival groups met. With neither unit armed, as per station rules, the fight was a fair one as the other commands quickly entered into the fight. Almost as soon as the fight had begun it was over as Galatea Station Security charged into the gravity deck locking down anyone who didn’t work for the station. Unlike the brawlers the Security units were armed with sonic weapons and guns with stun rounds and quickly they locked down all of the fighters. None of the mercenaries were armed so the station authorities had allowed them all to return to their DropShips and head for their contracts. Both of the mercenary units were headed for the Lyran Commonwealth borders for extended contracts.
Parliament of Bowang, Bowang City
District of Bowang, Free Worlds League
29th May 3104
A crowd had gathered outside of the Parliament of Bowang but this was not a crowd of anger or aggression but instead one of hope, peace and celebration. Prime Minister Allison Kaning, the leader of Bowang and of the District of Bowang, took to the podium in front of the famous white doors of the Parliament building and addressed the crowd. “Ladies and Gentlemen it has been my pleasure to lead Bowang and its District for the last ten years. We have accomplished many great things together” she said “we built on the Bowang Free Trade Sphere. We triumphed at forging the Outer League Alliance not through the use go weapons of war but through the power of words and peace.” She said proudly the crowds cheered at her words proud of what they had accomplished “we sponsored the rebirth of a united Free Worlds League and saw in the re-establishment of House Marik as one of the great houses of the Inner Sphere.” She said the crowd cheered again although this time it was slightly more muted not everyone wished a Marik to remain in power on Atreus. “We successfully brought the Wolf’s Dragoons into our nation and dealt with Clan Sea Fox again we used words instead of weapons of arms.” She said emphasizing her point she had never declared war on anyone, she had been willing to fight if it was needed but had much preferred to use words to get her point across. “As this nation goes forward we must continue to live up to the ideals this nation was born through and remember to watch out for threats to our nation. I thank you for your long support and look forward to my retirement.” She said stepping down replacing her at the podium stood a man who looked like he was in his early fifties, he was of Indian descent, his dark hair going grey he wore a navy business suit.
“Ladies and Gentlemen I am Abraham Ledford” he said “Allison Kaning has served our nation well and I hope that she enjoys the the time she now has off. I also hope that we all enjoy and remember today, and remember Allison Kaning’s contributions to our nation, to help that along I am happy to announce that across the District of Bowang the 29th May will be recognized as a public holiday with all workers, not engaged in work necessary to the running or defence of our nation, entitled to a paid day off work.” He announced a good way to start a new job by telling everyone that they were entitled to the day off. Ledford’s announcement turned the celebration of Allison Kaning’s ruler-ship into a party that ran deep into the night on Bowang and across the planets of the District. In the District of Gibraltar and the District of Lesnovo there were calls for the holiday to be recognized across the territory once claimed by the Outer League Alliance but these calls do not translate into the holiday being recognized.
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An excellent update and thank GOD the Lyran's didn't use nukes against the Clanners, especially ones as volatile as the Falcons, they would have gone berserk.
The political changes are interesting, I like that the leader of the Draconis March peacefully stood down and the Bowang folks are still going strong :) The bar fight was amusing, yay for drunk soldiers from rival units going into the same bar. Things never ever change.
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Yes, great update, and something that escaped me the first time it may have been mentioned, but it looks like the Falcons are attempting to cut off Arc-Royal, that could end up being all sorts of bad (for both Mountain Wolf and the Falcons).
I'm also curious about what the Ravens have been up to the last couple years, they've been pretty quiet lately - I suspect they are simply consolidating and building up their new colonies, but figured I'd poke the dragon. =)
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Hopefully the Ravens are doing some refits on their ships to give them AMS defences. They also probably need a new assault dropship (perhaps use the Arcadia as a base design?) and are doing things like expanding the Alliance's industrial base.
They have two battleships of their own, a Nightlord II and a Texas, and they also have the big advantage of distance between them and other Clan's. I don't know of their diplomatic ties to the other IS Clans, but they seem to be very wary of the Combine, which is understandable really. The Alliance does not really have space to trade and can't give up worlds without its core ones being threatened.
Because of this I think they would be a tad silly to not do something like a SLEP (Service Life Extension Program) on their ships to increase protection and add AMS. Perhaps take them into the yards to upgrade the hull plating to modern compounds and add AMS's at the same time. All depends on the number of yards they have.
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with the lose of all of those cargo hauling jumpships of the last two years. building new ones, repairing and refitting old ones must be a "Booming" business.
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I was wondering when the SLDF and LCAF were going to start thinking about battleships.
I was looking at your naval charts and saw how bad their rosters are in big ships.
I wonder if they will buy off the FS, Sea Foxes or design their own.
You don't need to be a member of an rival unit to enjoy some light entertainment in a bar. >:D
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While I can see Victor agreeing to build battleships for the Lyrans , I imagine he'll tell the SLDF to suck vacuum after the theft of the Caliburn concept.
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While I can see Victor agreeing to build battleships for the Lyrans , I imagine he'll tell the SLDF to suck vacuum after the theft of the Caliburn concept.
but the SLDF had 7 warship slips. they also have hulls to start with. they just done have the money. that could be were the lyrans come in. Would the ravens or sea fox sale warships or the slip space?
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The SLDF are good at borrowing designs, so with 7 slips that would be the cheap way.
Anyway the FS won't notice until the ships are actually launched. }:)
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The SLDF are good at borrowing designs, so with 7 slips that would be the cheap way.
Anyway the FS won't notice until the ships are actually launched. }:)
Look back a bit the SLDF already has launched the first two ships of their version of the Caliburn, even using Arthurian names that had to be a deliberate snub at the Suns IMO.
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I felt a great disturbance in the Force, as if more of my designs are going to be repurposed... ???
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You weren't supposed to be listening. ::)
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You weren't supposed to be listening. ::)
DC's already threatened to turn one of my glorious FedSuns battle-waggons into some accused Leaguer gunboat :-[
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DC's already threatened to turn one of my glorious FedSuns battle-waggons into some accused Leaguer gunboat :-[
NO SAY IT ISN'T SO!!!
:'(
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Geez you guys speak a lot. Not that I'm complaining I love the interest that's been generated by this timeline and all your little theories.
Time to answer a couple of the points that's turned up...
I don't know of their diplomatic ties to the other IS Clans, but they seem to be very wary of the Combine, which is understandable really.
All of the Clans are linked by the Clan Council that sits on the neutral territory of Tukayyid. Generally the Loremasters represent the Clans here however occasionally the Khans sit in. The Ebon Guard protect the planet and are commanded by the Loremaster of the Clans (basically independent of all the Clans) so far this has kept trouble out of the chambers.
All depends on the number of yards they have.
The Ravens have a fully operational shipyard at Quatre Belle and a JumpShip shipyard at Ramora
with the lose of all of those cargo hauling jumpships of the last two years. building new ones, repairing and refitting old ones must be a "Booming" business.
Yup pretty much
I was wondering when the SLDF and LCAF were going to start thinking about battleships.
Now
While I can see Victor agreeing to build battleships for the Lyrans , I imagine he'll tell the SLDF to suck vacuum after the theft of the Caliburn concept.
No comment, just wait for the Star League Conference in November...
but the SLDF had 7 warship slips. they also have hulls to start with. they just done have the money. that could be were the lyrans come in. Would the ravens or sea fox sale warships or the slip space?
There up to 10 of their own WarShip slips at Titan all are occupied. Answers no the Lyrans won't build for both, no the ravens and sea fox won't that would cause far far bigger problems.
DC's already threatened to turn one of my glorious FedSuns battle-waggons into some accused Leaguer gunboat :-[
Wasn't a threat O0 I've actually solved this problem for the SLDF. I solved it two years ago when I first saw the design...
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Subtlety Profitable College of Military Arts
Oriente, District of Oriente
Free Worlds League
2nd June 3104
The Subtlety and her attached JumpShips arrive in the Oriente system under escort from the Oriente Navy. When they arrive they are met by Duke Jonas Halas and are given full honours as visitors to the realm. Captain William Leroy-Dietrich agrees for the Subtlety to spend three weeks training with the people of Oriente including assisting them with simulated attack runs on the Fletcher Shipyard and a simulated attack on Oriente by a Capellan Du Shi Wang-class Battleship, which the Subtlety herself doubles for.
During the time Commander America Park, formerly of the Magistracy of Canopus Armed Forces, is certified to fly all of the Subtlety’s aerospace fighters and for work at one of the Subtlety’s weapons batteries. When they leave at the end of June they head towards Regulus with three students from Oriente still on board wishing to complete their studies Captain Leroy-Dietich promises Duke Jonas Halas that if the students wish to return to Oriente he will personally pay for them to make the trip via JumpShip.
Contested Space
Isle of Skye Lyran Commonwealth
4th June 3104
Following months of low scale raids DCMS units retaliate against the Isle of Skye striking at Baxter, Yed Posterlor, Corridan IV, Eaglesham and Phalan. On each of the worlds the DCMS troops find only small numbers of LCAF and mercenary troops but they are unable to secure them. By accident or by desire to cause further chaos the Fifth Benjamin Regulars Regiment off of Benjamin jump into the Accrington system, controlled by the Rasalhague Dominion, instead of jumping through the system into the Lyran Commonwealth the Fifth Benjamin Regulars launch an attack on Accrington assaulting the Bear positions. Within an hour the Fifth surround the Bear’s Third Kavalleri Cluster of Zeta Galaxy the native Rasalhaguan unit refuses repeated calls to surrender and are completely destroyed by the DCMS unit.
More than a month later on the 12th July while fighting continues on several of the worlds the Rasalhague Dominion reacts to the attack on Accrington. Ghost Bear units led by those of Zeta and Epsilon Galaxies strike against the worlds of Eaglesham, Phalan, Accrington, Cabalari, Shinonoha, Sakhalin and Dalkeith. With heavy fighting already taking place in this area and with none of the three nations able to dominate the fight this area is classed as contested space with all civilian traffic advised to avoid the area unless escorted by military units.
In late July the DCMS add to the chaos by adding additional Regiments and WarShips into the region expanding their attacks against the Dominion to include Aubisson, Buckminster and Port Moseby. With the Rasalhague Dominion concentrating on the previously attacked worlds the Draconis Combine is able to liberate Buckminster from the Clan forces which is a powerful political message leading up to the Star League Conference in November.
Thirty-First Star League Games
Solaris VII, Star League Protectorate
Lyran Commonwealth
18th June 3104
At the Thirty-first Star League Games Clan Wolf’s 328th Assault Cluster, The Lion Hearted, dominate the games taking the top five slots in the competition with Star Colonel Ivan Ward, the unit’s commander, claiming victory in the games. Independent competitors and the Star League Stables complain that the Wolves should never have been allowed to enter the fifteen competitors that they entered but the Star League Games organizers point out that the Wolves entered independently of each other and throughout the competition they attacked each other as often as they attacked the other competitors.
Several of the stables point out that there were several cases where the Wolves worked together and concentrated their fire on individual targets, the majority of these against Zellbrigen Stables run by Clan Sea Fox and Clan Jade Falcon, but the organizers note that throughout the history of the games there have been times where groups of warriors banded together to get themselves further along the competition and rule in favour of the Wolves.
Outside the Star League Stadium there is a small amount of public disturbances the Solaris Police forces control most of the trouble while the First and Second Solaris Security Regiments of the SLDF provide support and target the worst offenders. Within a few hours Solaris is back to normal business and heading towards the year’s regular games season with Clan Wolf expected to dominate as the Lion Hearted have entered a team much to the disappointment of many Solaris fans Star League Games winner Ivan Ward is not part of the team.
Third Battle of Incukalns
Incukalns, Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
30th June 3104
The Clan Mountain Wolf Warhawk OmniMech side stepped a torrent of autocannon fire from the Jade Falcon Bane BattleMech and returned fire with its remaining two particle cannons mounted on the left arm the right arm ended just below the shoulder blown off by Jade Falcon fire. The two man-made lightning shots flew through the air for an instant linking the two Mechs before the blast burned away armour from the upper chest and head area of the Bane. For a moment the one hundred ton BattleMech stood there like a standing stature before it fell smashing into the ground between the Mountain Wolf Mech and its attacker. The Mountain Wolf pilot coughed heavily as the heat slowly drained from the Mech’s cockpit before looking for another target.
The Third Battle of Incukalns had started eight days before with the arrival of the Clan Mountain Wolf flagship Werewolf, the SLS St Patrick and the LCS Lightning escorting the same ground forces as before with two Clusters of Clan Mountain Wolf attached at a pirate point close to the planet. The ground forces had streamed towards the planet while the three WarShips charged at the Night Talon which was still in the same position as before close to the planet.
As the ground forces charged towards the planet the three WarShips had turned on the Silver Talon blasting the Nightlord II with multiple volleys of naval particle cannon, autocannon and missile. The combined fire of the three WarShips on the single Nightlord II was too much for the Battleship but its return fire and the attacks from the Jade Falcon WarShips aerospace fighters was enough to destroy the SLS St Patrick and the LCS Lightning while the continued fighting caused further damage against the Werewolf.
Now for five days the combined Inner Sphere and Mountain Wolf had fought against four front-line Clusters of Jade Falcon troops. Their losses had been heavy but so were the losses taken by the Jade Falcons it was only a matter of time before the world was back under Lyran control. “This is General Trudeau to all units fall back to your DropShips prepare for an immediate evacuation.” General Shelly Trudeau, commander of the 789th Striker Regimental Brigade of the SLDF, said contacting all commands. Star Colonel Mark Vickers reached for the communication system inside the Warhawk’s cockpit but General Luther Sloan of the Fourteenth Lyran Guards RCT beat him to it.
“WE CAN STILL WIN” he shouted angrily into the communications system Mark Vickers recalled from speakers for a moment surprised about the volume of Sloan’s call.
“An additional WarShip has arrived in the system along with ground forces. Combined with the Ares Might they outgun the Werewolf. We need to get off the planet and back to the pirate point before they are able to get into range so get your ass back onto your DropShip and get the hell off this rock!” Trudeau responded the Mountain Wolves could not afford to lose the Werewolf in this nothing system Star Colonel Vickers immediately shut down the communication channel that linked him to the other units.
“All Mountain Wolf forces fall back to the DropShips as soon as all units are accounted for launch and rejoin with the Werewolf.” He ordered the other Mountain Wolves knew that he would only call for a withdrawal if there was no chance of them succeeding.
From the planet Mountain Wolf, Lyran Commonwealth and Jade Falcon units withdrew from the planet’s surface rendezvousing with the Werewolf. For three days the combined forces burned quickly back towards the pirate point and their waiting JumpShips. As they approached the jump point the Ares Might, the Jade Falcon Mississippi-class Battleship, entered extreme weapons range. The Werewolf and the upgraded Jade Falcon Battleship traded blow after blow with naval particle cannons and naval lasers as the ground forces joined up with their JumpShips. Before the Ares Might entered a range where it could do any meaningful damage to the Werewolf the Mountain Wolf was also able to jump clear of the system.
Elsewhere in the Clan Jade Falcon Occupation Zone the Clan turns Graceland, Koniz and Blair Atoll to Hell’s Horses control in small trials of Possession freeing up additional troops and equipment which they can funnel into the defence of Incukalns and other areas of the Occupation Zone.
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Wasn't a threat O0 I've actually solved this problem for the SLDF. I solved it two years ago when I first saw the design...
WTF was I working on two years ago? ???
Solaris7.com is still down, so no easy way to check there...
No! No, not the Duke! I'm not letting you turn my masterpiece on the Suns!
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??? I wonder what the DC will point out with their win at Buckminster at the Star League Conference? I wonder how well they would do if SLDF did withdraw any support to future ops? Clan Wolf joining in the Solaris Games? A good way to send a few Clan hot heads/egomaniacs to test their mettle on a diverse set of opponents.
Looking forward to seeing what Warships are coming out for the SLDF? New upgraded designs or Brand new designs? Hmmm....
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Wow, nice update, now why do I get the feeling that the Horses are setting the Falcons up for an absorption? Sudeten is ripe for the picking, with the gift of Blair Atholl the Falcons must either go through unpopulated systems or Horse controlled systems to reach their capital.
Also, I love the chaotic regions such as the new front between the RD, DC, and LC - so much opportunity for shenanigans there. xD
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The falcons are trading systems they see as worthless it seems, so they can move troops on them to the front against the Lyrans, basically they are claiming Lyran worlds whilst giving up ones in their OZ, slowly moving it forwards that way. Sudeten though is basically sacred and if the Horses tried an Absorption I think it would go very badly for both Clans.
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Yeah, but they've been in high level conflict with the LC for 4 or so years, and their war machine is starting to show signs of fatigue, they've had to give up large swaths of territory to both the Horses and Foxes for roughly 3 clusters of troops and they seem to be burning through war material at a prodigious rate.
The question in my mind is how long can they keep up this level of conflict before running out of resources? It'll be at that point that absorption or outright destruction by the LC would become an option - not right away.
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??? I wonder what the DC will point out with their win at Buckminster at the Star League Conference?
Bragging rights :D
Looking forward to seeing what Warships are coming out for the SLDF? New upgraded designs or Brand new designs? Hmmm....
Brand new... well two years old (at least) with a little modding probably thank JA Baker for the initial good start then blame me for screwing it up
Also, I love the chaotic regions such as the new front between the RD, DC, and LC - so much opportunity for shenanigans there. xD
New Chaos March sort of for a while
The falcons are trading systems they see as worthless it seems, so they can move troops on them to the front against the Lyrans, basically they are claiming Lyran worlds whilst giving up ones in their OZ, slowly moving it forwards that way. Sudeten though is basically sacred and if the Horses tried an Absorption I think it would go very badly for both Clans.
I'll neither deny or confirm such a claim... its something on an unsaid rule that the Clans won't try to destroy each other or what's left of their culture... although there's things coming up that will bring that into question.
The question in my mind is how long can they keep up this level of conflict before running out of resources? It'll be at that point that absorption or outright destruction by the LC would become an option - not right away.
Long enough...
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Clan Wolf offensive
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
8th July 3104
Building on their victory in the Solaris games and the victories of Clan Jade Falcon against the Lyrans Clan Wolf launch assaults against the Lyran Commonwealth with Wolf Clusters striking at Kalidasa, New Hope, Alkes. On each of the planet they come across elements of the Second Isle of Skye Guards RCT and planetary militia units. The 328th Assault Cluster, the Lion Hearted, leading the way by hitting Kalidasa the unit commanded by Ivan Ward, winner of the Star League Games, quickly breaks the defenders lines forcing them from their base with three Trinaries of his elite Cluster. The Wolf Star Colonel allows the survivors to regroup and retreat off world. The Wolf attack catches the Lyran Commonwealth completely by surprise with nothing from the Intelligence services suggesting an attack was imminent.
Border conflict
Capellan Confederation/Federated Suns
18th July 3104
As a new battle begins on the Lyran/Wolf border another conflict continues with little sign of ending. For months the Capellan Confederation/Federated Suns border had been lit aflame with conflict. Prince Burton Davion joins an attack on the historical Ares system with the First Davion Guards RCT and the First Federated Suns Lancers Regiment. The Prince leads the First Davion Guards from the fore and does not hide his presence on Ares instead crushing the local militia and elements of the Capellans Fourth Defence Force. For decades Ares had avoided heavy combat due to its historical significance and its status as a free port however Burton had chosen it exactly for those qualities. With Federated Suns and mercenary units engaged in combat with the Capellans on six different Capellan worlds the Prince repeats a trick he used against the Draconis Combine previously and contacts Sian using the planetary HPG. He calls on the Capellans to end the conflict before more lives are lost.
Nearly two weeks later Warrior House Doru takes a run at the planet attempting to strike directly at the Prince however they are unable to get past the AFFS WarShips assigned to the system. The Warrior House dies to the man attempting to run past the FSS Gold Archer a Robinson-class Transport. Prince Burton Davion uses the HPG one more time calling for a cease fire Chancellor Dao-Shen Liao contacts New Avalon and agrees to a cease fire with the Federated Suns claiming four of the planets that were contested while the Capellans successfully liberate Grand Base and Holloway. The District of Oriente of the Free Worlds League uses the distraction of the fighting between the Capellans and Federated Suns to seize control over Palos and Ulan Bator.
Briefing, Anders McKenna (Swiftsure-class Cruiser)
Varnay Anchorage, Nova Cat’s Den
Periphery
21st July 3104
Khan Canin Rosse stood on the gravity deck of one of the Nova Cat’s newest WarShips the Anders McKenna, a Swfitsure-class Cruiser, beside him stood Star Commodore Rachel Bavros, Star Colonel Fallon and Star Colonel Dominic the commanders of the Anders McKenna, the First and the Second ProtoMech Clusters. “You are aware of your task and the limitations of it?” He asked looking at them.
“We’re to be based off the Anders McKenna” Dominic said “we are to raid the Taurian Concordat and see if we can find the source of the raids on our shipping to Davetal III.”
“We are then to supplement the defenders there.” Fallon said Rosse looked at the WarShip’s commander.
“We are to act as escort and only engage space bound targets. We are to pay particular attention to any encounter we have with the Taurian’s Hyades-class vessels.” She said naming the new class of armed JumpShip the Taurians had deployed so far however the single vessel deployed had not been seen. “We are to test each system of the Anders McKenna and ensure the WarShip is ready for service with our Clan. And scan any systems that we could use in the future for colonies or supply bases.” She said
“Very good good hunting to you all” he said.
Over the next six months the Anders McKenna and its two attached ProtoMech Clusters discovered several additional planets the Nova Cats could use as colonies and supply points this information would eventually be passed to the New Worlds Exploration Cluster for further checks. These worlds would eventually become known as the Cat’s Tail after further exploration by the Nova Cats.
The Nova Cat units also raided eight different planets in the Taurian Concordat, for the most part these raids went well with one of the Clusters taking part while the other remained in their DropShip either in orbit or at the landing zones. On Cadiz the First ProtoMech Cluster lost nearly a Binary of units fighting against The Foul Tempered Mercenary Command this caused Star Colonel Dominic to hot-drop his entire cluster of ProtoMechs on top of the Foul Tempered scattering their second Battalion. The Nova Cats and the mercenaries continued to fight for three further days before the Clan forces were able to withdraw from from the planet.
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Ivan Ward's seemingly setting himself up for something, perhaps eyeing the Khan's post, he's certinally a Ristar because of his victories and these assaults against Lyran woulds probably come at a bad time with me assuming that most of the Lyran military has its eyes to the North and against the Falcons.
Six planets lost is a heavy toll for the Cappelans but it seems the Davion plan was more to place the Cap-con in a meat grinder. I don't know how big a Warrior House is but I'm going to assume its a large formation, and to loose one in its entirity is probably something the Capellans can't afford.
And interesting, didn't know the Nova Cat's used Proto's, don't think i've seen them mentioned in their Tourman in this TL, and I do love how the Clan's 'test' something, in the crucible of battle.
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Long enough...
For what I wonder, muahahaha!
Great update, but did I miss something, or did the FWL attack "behind the lines" to get at Palos and Ulan Batar?
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I don't know how big a Warrior House is but I'm going to assume its a large formation, and to loose one in its entirity is probably something the Capellans can't afford.
Your typical Warrior House is a combined-arms regiment, some bigger, some smaller. Think an under-strenght LCT.
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what ever happened to that clan DD that Kat wolf (stiner/Davion/ect had when she died?
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I'll answer now as I've a ton of work and won't be writing for a few days
Marauder648 - Ivan is a ristar how high he'll rise well that's still to be decided
The Capellans lost 4 planets retained 2 sorry that should have been more clear
The Nova Cats have always had Protos they just don't get out much
Vition2 - both systems are on the border between the FWL/Cappies and Suns
JA Baker - pretty much that particular house was a reinforced Mech Battalion, 2 Battalions of armour and a mixed infantry BA battalion they were under orders to resist Davion or don't come back they chose the latter option
Cawest- it's a Lola III and currently still over Alphard it's barely moved since Katrina passed there's some Hegemony bits coming up sooner or later
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Okay, figured out where I may have missed some stuff, the systems bordering Palos and Ulan Batar are probably among these:
“I think the Taurians have more to worry about that us attacking them” Erik said “in the last week the Federated Suns captured Tsitsang, Wei and Shipka while the Free Worlds League threaten eight different systems.” He explained
I suspect this means that Second Try, Yunnah, Elnath, Corey, Phact, Wazan, Old Kentucky and another of a few options are included in these 8 systems.
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Indeed I tried to incorporate it into that piece instead of just adding a timeline entry makes you all read every bit never know what's hidden
EDIT yes I noticed the horrible wording of that paragraph for you that noticed it and have gives it thanks Vition2 for pointing it out
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Whilst the Capcon didn't loose too many worlds, I think they must have lost a lot of resources trying to hold back the FedSuns forces. This seems to have basically been a Battle of Verdun, the Suns took worlds and the Cappies kept feeding units into the mincing machine the Suns had prepared for them.
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Over the last 2 years of the timeline the CC has lost a bit more than they have gained, but a lot of them have been those closer to Terra, and possibly are a little bit better off. Meanwhile their gains have mostly been near periphery worlds of the Fed Suns which the Suns have a poor record of making sure they are better off. In addition, the CC lost Ares - which is probably a huge blow, both morale-wise and industrially. Overall the CC is looking to be in a very bad spot.
Edits:
Edit and update with numbers now that I'm able to look at the map. The CC has lost a total of 36 worlds, including one of their few dropship manufacturing worlds (Ares). In return they captured 13 worlds the Fed Suns had controlled, including Menke and (if I recall correctly) an industrially damaged Victoria. The Taurians meanwhile have captured anywhere between 9 and 18 (with suggestions pointing at 15ish).
This comes to a net loss for the CC of 23, which ends up being roughly 15% of their 3100 territory. The Fed Suns end up with a net loss of 5ish worlds, which is almost insignificant to them. The Capellan Confederation seem to be rapidly becoming the newest near periphery power.
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If it makes you feel better the Capellans will increase in size soon enough... although not likely in the way you expect.
Unfinished Book Movement
Avalon City, Albion
New Avalon, Crucis March
9th August 3104
With the formation of the Federated Commonwealth, the arrival of the Clans, the formation of the new Star League Defence Force and the fall of the Federated Commonwealth the Unfinished Book Movement begins a Sixth Edition of their sacred texts. With information provided by Sterling McKenna and acquired from Clan Sea Fox traders the Unfinished Book name the revision after The Rememberance.
Planning Room, Marik Palace
Marik, District of Marik
Free Worlds League
12th August 3104
“The timing could not be more perfect!” One of the Generals said triumphantly looking at Captain-General Joseph Marik. As Joseph grew up he had been told for many years by the church that violence brings only violence in return and that words could solve many problems. When he championed the idea to rebuild the Free Worlds League he used words not force of arms to bring by his desires. But with the Clans they only understood one thing. “With the Wolves invading the Lyran Commonwealth the time is right for us to strike and strike hard.” He said continuing Joseph couldn’t stop himself agreeing. Since the Wolves had secured their first three targets the Clan had struck out at three more targets hitting Shiloh, Athena and Dieudonne all former Free Worlds League worlds under Lyran Commonwealth control. Although they did not have concrete information on what was happening it appeared that Athena had fallen within hours of the Wolf landing while the remains of the Second Isle of Skye Guards RCT were engaged in heavy fighting on Dieudonne; a battle Joseph’s advisers noted they were unlikely to survive. Elements of the First Isle of Skye Guards had moved from New Kyoto to support militia forces on Shiloh but by the time they arrived in range the Wolves had already overrun the defenders. Now the First Guards were fighting against superior Wolf numbers and would likely have to retreat sooner rather than later.
“We are sure we can pull this off?” Joseph asked his advisers carefully together they had assembled regiments and mercenaries from across the reunited Free Worlds League for this move but he needed to know they could do it.
“We are sure” General Michael Donovan said casting his hand over the planning table. “Tomorrow morning the Fourth Marik Guards and the Sixth Fusiliers of Oriente Regiments supported by there mercenary Daniel’s Avengers, Graves’ Dancers and Arlington’s Angels will strike at Helm, Tania Australis, Stewart and Danais.” He said marking the three systems with a red marker pen. “We believe that Tania Australis, Helm and Danais will fill within a matter of hours Stewart will be more difficult as the Wolves seem to value it as much as the family it is named after did.” He said “we have unconfirmed reports that the Nicholas Kerensky, a Texas-class Battleship, has been repaired and is operational in the system so we are sending all four WarShips of the Thessaly Battle group to the system.”
“The day after” General Katherine Todd said speaking up the First Marik Militia, the Fourth Regulan Hussars, and the mercenary units the Blade Legion and Brotherhood of Randis will strike at the Wolves soft underbelly of Autumn Wind and Rasalas. According to our reports these have been stripped of front-line troops it will send a clear message to Clan Wolf that we do not want them on our border.”
“And finally by the end of this week the First Bowang Border Guards, the Ninth Tamarind Militia, Second Rim Guards and Gamma Regiment of the Wolf’s Dragoons will strike at Tamarind and Simpson Desert” General Trent Higall, a former Clan Nova Cat warrior himself, said.
“Why the delay our forces were to be in place to act within days of each other?” Joseph asked.
“We had a JumpShip carrying the Ninth Tamarind Militia’s BattleMechs and Infantry forces develop a jump drive problem.” Higall explained “the unit is operational once more.” He promised the Captain-General.
“What Capital assets have been assigned?”
“The Wolf’s Dragoons vessel Athena, Tamarind’s Galisteo and Promised Land and the Bowang.” He said naming the four WarShips assigned to the battle the toughest part of that fight would be Tamarind which the Wolves were desperate to hold onto due to the shipyards there. Joseph had been tempted to authorize the Free Worlds League units to target the shipyards to break the resolve of the Clansmen but he knew it would damage his own people’s morale as well so had left it to the unit commander to choose for themselves.
“Very good to the Inner Sphere it will appear that we are helping the Lyrans stop Clan Wolf in its tracks in fact we will be testing a reborn Free Worlds League working as one collective unit. I have faith in our people and should this campaign bore the results we wish there will be more.” Joseph Marik said the Districts of Oriente, Gibraltar and Lesnovo had all called on the “united force of the reborn Free Worlds League” to fight their battles. By using units from across the nation Joseph planned to bind the people to each other but knew he’d have to pay a price for their help down the road.
By the end of the week the entire Wolf/Free Worlds League border was ablaze but not everything had gone as Captain-General Joseph Marik had hoped. The attacks on Autumn Wind, Rasalas, Tania Australis and Helm had been a stellar success with the Free Worlds League finding old warriors piloting vintage Star League-era BattleMech and armour designs defending the planet. By the time the Free Worlds League had pushed onto Bainsville and Gallatin they found the Wolves had already abandoned both worlds. Simpson’s Desert had followed the same routine lightly defended by old warriors. Stewart and Tamarind had been another story…
In the Stewart system the Free Worlds League forces jump in and encounter the Ward’s Legacy as expected. Supporting this McKenna-class WarShip are no fewer than ten Isegrim-class Pocket WarShips and hundreds of aerospace fighters. Supported by the Thessaly Battle Group the Free Worlds League regiments attempt to force their way through the Wolf vessels heading for the planet. While the Free Worlds League units had an advantage in numbers of aerospace fighters and their WarShips were good vessels in their own right but against the Ward’s Legacy and the Wolf DropShips they were in trouble. While the ground forces streamed towards Stewart the Ward’s Legacy opened up on them with its massed array of naval particle cannons and in the opening volley the Remember Stewart, a Zechitinu II-class Corvette, and two Leopard CV-class DropShips of the Arlington’s Angels Mercenary command were wiped out along with two DropShips of the Fusiliers of Oriente. Aerospace fighters from the Thessaly engaged the Ward’s Legacy at close range the Wolf Pocket WarShips and aerospace fighters tore into them at close range taking a heavy toll on the attackers. Allowing the DropShips to engage the aerospace fighters the Ward’s Legacy opened fire on the Thessaly with its particle cannons in the confusion of battle the Abbot, an Eagle-class Frigate, got caught in the crossfire and was split in half by the Ward’s Legacy’s fire. Even with the Abbot’s sacrifice several of the McKenna’s naval particle cannons struck the Thera-class Thessaly causing damage to its armour and forward launch bays. The damage to the Thessaly caused the Thera to pull back along with the Mordred, another Eagle-class Frigate, this allowed the Ward’s Legacy to roll out of combat and escape moving beyond Stewart. This withdrawal allowed the Fourth Marik Guards, the remains of the Sixth Fusiliers of Oriente, the Daniel’s Avengers and the Graves’ Dancers to complete their transit to the planet. The Free Worlds League forces fought against the Wolves on Stewart for the remains of August and into September while the Ward’s Legacy, the Thessaly and Mordred danced around the planet attempting to engage each other. By the beginning of September the Free Worlds League forces withdrew from the planet the Sixth Fusiliers of Oriente and the Graves’ Dancers completely destroyed, the remains of the Graves’ Dancers were folded into the Daniel’s Avengers with Captain Jean Graves and the survivors of her unit accepted as part of the command. Once clear of the system the remains of the Arlington’s Angels were also absorbed into the Free Worlds League Navy.
In the Tamarind system the Free Worlds League found a worse situation than that in the Stewart system. From the moment they emerged in the system on top of the Victoria Ward the invasion force was at a back food. The Victoria Ward, an Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser, had just arrived in the system and as soon as she detected the incoming forces the crew cut loose their jump said and manned their battle stations meaning she was ready for the arrival of the Free Worlds League units. As they entered the system the Victoria Ward concentrated on targeting the Galisteo and Promised Land, the two Unity-class Frigates, causing heavy damage to the two missile laden vessels as she withdrew deeper into the system. For their part the Free Worlds League WarShips and the Wolf’s Dragoons vessel Athena caused heavy damage to the Battle-cruiser all but stripping her of weapons along her port side while crippling or destroying all of her DropShip escorts and most of her aerospace fighters. This was however a small costly battle which won the Free Worlds League no control over the Tamarind system. From deeper in the system the Wolves second Battleship the Texas-class Nicholas Kerensky charged down on the incoming Free Worlds League units. From the command centre on board the WarShip saKhan Fredrick Ward declared the Free Worlds invasion force dezgra and promised their destruction if they remained. With half of their WarShips crippled and a fresh Battleship ready to enter the fray the Free Worlds League commander ordered their combined ground forces and mercenary support to withdraw leaving Tamarind in Wolf hands.
The woes for the Free Worlds League were not over with the failed assaults on Tamarind and Stewart however. Clan Wolf angered by the intrusion into their territory turned their next wave of attacks against the Free Worlds League. Unleashing their newly raised Epsilon Galaxy on the Free Worlds League worlds of Adhafera, Tania Borealis and Merak the Wolf force completely annihilated the Free Worlds League forces in those systems including the WarShip Voyager in the Tania Borealis system the Venturer-class Light Cruiser which was shattered by attacks from the Wolf Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser Jerome Winson and the Second Atrean Dragoons which were crushed by
From analysing the sensor logs taken from the WarShips in the Tamarind system the Free Worlds League’s SAFE Intelligence organisation were able to confirm that Clan Wolf had restored the Tamarind Shipyards to working condition and that they were building a new type of WarShip there which explained the presence of the Battleship and the saKhan. While on Tania Borealis intelligence officers identify several former-Free Worlds League citizens among the Wolf forces serving as warriors. The Intelligence operatives are able to positively show that these warriors in particular are responsible for executing nearly three quarters of the prisoners taken by the Wolves during the battle, while most others die from injuries sustained during the battle, it appears to SAFE that these members of Epsilon Galaxy feeling abandoned by the Free Worlds League have taken to the Clan indoctrination fully and embraced their new path as Wolves. These assaults put the Wolves within striking distance of Marik itself while the brutality, and the identity of some of their warriors, shock the leaders of the Free Worlds League.
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Thank Marauder648 for the Rasalhague Dominion wiping out the Draconis Combine's little territory gain.
Draconis Combine Assault
Buckminster, Orestes District
Rasalhague Dominion
19th August 3104
On the 19th of August two Draconis Combine units attack Buckminster and Port Moseby of the Rasalhague Dominion further adding to the contested zone located between the Draconis Combine, Rasalhague Dominion and Lyran Commonwealth. In the the Buckminster system, the DCS Matsu a huge Yamato class Battleship and her escorting Kyushu class frigate the Shimokita that was also carrying the Third Yokosuma SNLF with one hundred-and-eight Land Air Mech’s in her hangar.
The orbital battle did not last long, the few Dominion DropShips that were able to fight did so bravely but against the two WarShips and their fighters the fact that the Combine units would be reaching the planet was a foregone conclusion.
The battle on ground less so, the First Kalliveri and Twelfth Provisional Garrison Cluster of Omicron Galaxy instead opted to fight a defensive campaign as six DCMS JumpShips arrived in system and began landing troops.
With the orbital space secure the Shimokita deployed her massed LAM’s quickly securing the world’s main starport despite heavy resistance from the Twelfth PGC before it withdrew behind a shell of Solhama troops who fought until the very last.
---
Four days later the Dominion’s reply arrived. Onboard the Shimokita the alert claxons were blaring across the ship, she was on the night side of Buckminster, her sensors relaying data down to the troops on the surface as an operation to secure a major dam and its associated relay stations was under way. Half the Third Yokosuma was on the surface, the others were in the frigates Mech bay’s being serviced and undergoing maintenance. The Special Naval Landing Force (SNLF) Regiments were a raiding force, a hammer that could come down behind hostile lines from orbit, not one built for sustained siege and assault operations, with half the Landing Force involved in the assault along with aerospace support victory was predicted within the hour.
Then the sensors registered a huge emergence bloom on the day side at the Pirate Point between the primary moon and Buckminster.
“Report.”
“Sir! The Matsu reports a Leviathan II has just jumped in system and is moving to engage, Tai-Sho Kamimura requests we move to assist and engage.
Tai-sa Shigeto nodded as he strapped himself into his chair, glancing at the 3D holo map of the world. He had his two dropships with him, both Union X’s whilst the two supply ships were on the surface helping with the assault. Both Union’s were moving into flanking positions.
On the holo-map he could clearly see the huge red mass of the Leviathan and the smaller icons representing her eight escorts in a picture perfect escort formation as they moved towards the still distant Yamato class battleship that was coming about, both massive ships streaming fighters from their launch bays.
“Our fighter status?”
“Six on-board and ready to go Sir, the Reaper and Tracer are both launching their fighters to add to our screen.”
“Understood. Chu-Sa Rees, can you deploy your forces?”
“All but four are ready to go, but without fighter cover a LAM is not much use in a naval battle.” The Yokosuma Regimental commander reported. It was a truth nothing more, LAM’s were at the mercy of any good fighter pilot, they were just too slow, and neither fish nor fowl in a true naval engagement like this.
“And how about a boarding action?”
The Chu-Sa was silent for a moment, glancing at the data about the Leviathan as well as its escorts. “Punch us a hole through their screen and my men will rip that thing apart.”
---
“Sir all fighters are away, escort group one and two are in position.” The warrior at the tactical station reported glancing over at the Rasalhague’s commander.
“Very good, communications?” He said glancing at another member of the command crew.
“Aye Sir.”
“Get me Star Colonel Nils Jorgenson.”
A holo-display sprang to life, showing the face of the commander of the two hundred-and-fifty Elementals aboard the massive battleship.
“Star Colonel, have your troops prepare for a boarding action. It is my intent to disable the Dragon’s vessel and claim her for the Dominion.” He said confidently the Draconis Combine Battleship was an impressive vessel but it should be no match for the Rasalhague.
The dark skinned Elemental’s grin was almost feral and he saluted a clenched fist over his heart. “Aff Star Admiral!” He said eager to get into battle.
The holo in the command deck flicked off to be replaced by a smaller display of the system. A practiced eye told the Star Admiral that the Combine ship was taken by surprise by the Rasalhague’s arrival, they’d jumped in system early in the morning, and he could only guess they were on watch stations, not full battle stations. This was not a determent to the Combine vessel no crew could maintain full readiness at all times, how they conducted themselves in battle would show how competent the crew were.
“Have our fighter’s punch through their screen and eliminate her escorts, guns, target DropShips first and then give me a rolling broadside, target weapon systems and thrusters. Have Fang and Claw Star’s move to shield our bow.” He said hopefully if the Rasalhague continued to move the damage the Combine vessel did would not be concentrated in one location even if it did mean their fire would be less accurate.
A chorus of affirmatives rang out and were quickly relayed to the mass of fighters swirling round the battleship. The eight Vanir DropShips moving into position, a double layered arc across the battleships bow with a hundred miles between each ship, the DropShips forming a flak barrier three hundred miles in front of the Rasalhague as the fighters from both sides engaged.
Star Captain Victor grinned, rolling his shoulders, his Ostrogoth’s sensors showing the DCMS fighters up perfectly. They were wisely sticking with their dropships, which would mean a hard fight, but with only seventy-two fighters protecting her versus the three hundred from the Rasalhague the Dominion forces had the advantage in numbers as well as technology.
“Odin Binary, stick with your wingman and keep an eye on your sensors!”
Victor was a Spheroid, the son of a Kungsarmee pilot who had fought against the Bears but he had not felt the animosity his father had and when he could he joined the Dominion’s military, his testing and Trial of Position netting him a prestigious berth aboard the huge Rasalhague. In the battle against the Snake’s he’d nearly lost his home and had been assigned to various Aesir class ships but had taken part in another Trial of Position when the Rasalhague was returned to service this time as a Star Commander. When with native Rasalhague citizens he spoke ‘normally’ but he could understand the Clan’s love of speaking ‘properly’ there was no ambiguity, and it made commands crisp and clear.
“Janice, you are with me, take formation on my port wing.”
“Attention escort group Mauler, this is Galaxy Commander Johan Otiz, engage the fighters approaching on vector 097, Assault group Mangle will engage the DropShips Hanzo and Dragon’s wrath ensure they are not troubled whilst doing so.”
“Aff Galaxy Commander! Mauler group, you heard him, for the Dominion!” The Combine escorts started blitzing laser and particle bolts as missiles flew between both formations, most missing thanks to the brutal ECM being pumped out, but some hitting with brief flashes and the occasional scream over the comm’s net as multi-tonne fighter became fireballs.
Mangle was one of the heavy hitting Trinaries, a mixture of Kirghiz and Hydaspes I and II assault boats, they were moving in tight formation noses and wings flaring as they volleyed missiles and barrages of laser and particle light at approaching targets. It was Mauler’s job to keep them alive so they could pound the Draconis Combine droppers into rubble.
“Mangle One! Yellow nosed bastards, six-o-clock high coming down now!”
Victor grunted as he pulled the Ostrogoth into a hard turn, thrusters flaring as he swung the nose round as bolts of manmade lighting tore through where his fighter would have been. A snap roll brought him in behind his target, one of the DCMS’s new Koryosha class assault fighters, their hulls gleaming in the reflected light from the planet.
“Lock target.”
“Target locked.” The fighter’s Bitching Betty dutifully replied, the Draconis Combine fighters were big and fast, his was faster, he had more thrust to spend and could turn sharper. The four Draconis Combine fighters split, two going to port, the others to starboard.
“Janice we’ll take the port pair, Torbyorn, Hudson, take the starboard!” As their ‘children dueled and danced the two massive mother-ships came into range, greeting each other with missile fire that for the most part was harmlessly deflected either by on-board Anti-Missile Systems and jamming or in the Rasalhague’s case by her flak screen.
The Matsu and Rasalhague opened fire at near the same moment as the range between the two slowly circling giants came down as both ships turned to bring their broadsides to bear. At these long ranges though the Leviathan had the advantage, her massed laser batteries were built with bracket firing in mind whilst the Matsu was built with mid-range brawling, relying on her armour to let her bully other vessels. Still the Combine’s ship had superb gunners and the latest firing systems allowing her to score hits with her lasers, gauss rifles and PPCs even as her flank was flayed by the Dominion vessels lasers and PPC’s.
---
As the battle raged between the two Battleships the DCS Shimokita moved into position at full burn, the 2.5g of sustained thrust was hard on her crew, but they knew even as the ship crested the North Pole of Buckminster that they had to get into battle.
“Begin...Declaration turn…attention all hands brace for sudden and immediate declaration!” Operating mainly under computer guidance the six hundred-and-thirty thousand tonne frigate spun about on her axis, her hull groaning under the stress of the high speed turn, engines flaring brightly as the fought against her momentum and inertia, the ship rattling from stem to stern for a moment before the heavy pressure of acceleration lifted somewhat. “Report!”
“We’re in position Sir! And moving at 1g.” The helm operator reported happily.
“Damn fine navigation, sensors!”
“The Mutsu’s fighter screen’s all but gone, five DropShips destroy…sorry, all six are gone the Red Dragon just caught a gauss slug.”
“Sir! We’ve just been actively painted by the Rasalhague!”
“Report on enemy ship!”
“Damaged but operable, enemy DropShips are reacting to our presence.”
“Too late, Chu-sa Reese, are your men prepared to do their duty?” He asked into the communication system.
“We’re always ready.” Came the muffled reply, the Lieutenant Colonel was joining his men; his personalized Screamer LAM would be the first out of the hangar.
“Good luck and fight well.”
“And you my friend.” The Chu-sa replied the Third Yokosuma SLNF were permanently assigned to the Kyushu-class vessel the Regiment’s Mechs and their warriors were as much a part of the crew as anyone else.
“Sensors report.”
“Sir we’re being painted, we’re in range… but they are not firing?” He said looking slightly confused an Inner Sphere enemy would be firing their weapons on an enemy as soon as they were in range.
“This Bear has some honour, on Terra in the age of sail; a large warship would not engage a lesser one unless fired upon. The greater vessel could defeat a smaller opponent with ease and it saved a simple slaughter.” He said explaining what was going on to his crew “he knows we can’t threaten him and he can reach out and destroy us at a moment’s notice. Signal the Reaper and Tracer, engage the enemy dropships. Launch the Third!”
---
“Sir! Enemy frigate is launching fighters, count is at twenty… thirty… fifty!”
“I gave them a chance…guns, destroy them. Get me an ID on the fighter type and get Fang and Claw to cover our rear.” Star Admiral Yanos Silva was frustrated, mostly at himself, he’d realized that he’d become fixated on the now wallowing Yamato as his fighters tore at its sides and rear, battering the proud ship again and again as his vessel’s weapons cut into its hull. He’d discounted the frigate. A small ship like that had no business challenging a battleship. Still it was only a distraction, soon they would be destroyed and then his Elementals could board the Matsu and claim her for the Dominion.
“Firing!” Even as the Shimokita turned to bring her long ranged broadside guns to bare the Leviathan spoke first, the massive Clan battleship not pulling its punches as enough firepower to flatten a city slammed into her bow and forward quarter.
The frigates Ferro-Aluminium armour initially held, but for a few seconds before the Clan’s bright blue lasers melted through and ripped into her interior. The PPC and gauss slugs were just the finishing touch as the Kyushu shuddered like a wounded beast, flame roaring through her interior, bulkheads melting under the onslaught of laser and particle fire before the gauss slugs impacted a few micro-seconds later and finished what the torrent of energy weapons had started. The bow section was sheared off, ripped and torn metal giving way, the frigate venting puffs of oxygen and fire into the void before her ammunition stores in the aft quarter detonated, shredding the doomed hulk in a white hot flash. But fifty-four LAM’s were thundering towards the Dominion battleship, bought time to get to full thrust and close the distance by the death of their mother-ship.
“Sir! Enemy craft are Land Air Mech’s!”
“How many?”
“All of them!”
“Get our escorts back here now!” The Star Admiral snarled, looking at the prize he knew would soon be denied to him.
“Get Star Colonel Nils Jorgenson’s men out of the assault craft. Attention all hands! Prepare to repel boarders!” He commanded a LAM attached to the hull of a WarShip could do a lot of damage.
“Hit her upper hull and forwards quarter, if we can get into the DropShip collars we can cause some serious damage.” The Third was moving fast and hard, the Dominion DropShips were still out of position and the battleship was still firing on the Matsu, the Combine WarShip returning fire as best she could but was clearly in a bad way.
Still with several hundred kilometres to go the Bear ship was far from defenceless, her lasers started tracking, guided by her massively powerful sensors they started firing into the dispersed mass of Combine LAM’s. More often than not the class-55 naval lasers missed, leaving nothing but a bright after image in their target pilot’s eyes. But when one hit, a LAM simply ceased to be. Cored through by a weapon that could melt through a battleship’s armour with ease, the LAM’s protection was nothing.
Then the point defences opened fire. Layered LRMs, ATMs, lasers and PPCs which the LAM’s of the Third returned with gusto, but it was pinpricks against a giant, she was easy to hit, but Mech scale weapons barely scored the surface plating. The real damage the unit would do was if they could get on board.
“Decelerate…NOW!” Chu-sa Reese ordered the remains of his unit the Screamer lived up to its name as its power plant roared as it directed everything it had to the thrusters, the transformation mechanisms on the fifty-five tonne machine moving parts with precise grace and fluidity. Up ahead the Chu-sa could see his target, the huge flared dome of one of the dropship collars, rising over the Rasalhague’s back like a small hill. With the Screamer’s Mag-clamps active the Mech could only move at fifty-six kilometres per hour, but the system let him walk on the ships hull instead of having to risk jumping or crawling. Jumping would bring him into the arcs of the point defences and the scores across the Screamer’s chest told the Chu-sa he didn’t want to repeat that.
He’d seen three of his men, their machines wreathed in fire plunge into the hull of the Dominion warship, and around him he could see other Icons of friendly forces advancing on his position although it was worryingly few.
“If we can detonate the fuel supplies in the DropShip ports we can still win this. We need to get inside!”
“Hai!”
“CHARGE!” The Combine LAM’s advanced, firing at anything that looked important, silencing a few of the point defence batteries by snapping off gun barrels or smashing laser lenses, making their way along the upper hull before the hull shook and there was a scream.
---
“What the hell was that!?” The Rasalhague’s commander demanded
“Sir, the Huntsman reports they had a firing solution, one of their missiles just destroyed two enemy Mech’s.”
“Those idiots! They put a hole in MY ship, get the escorts to cease fire before they do more harm than the enemy do! If they continue to fire they will face me in a Circle of Equals after this battle is over.” He snapped “helm!”
“Aff Sir!”
“Bring us to green 48, down ten degrees, finish that Combine ship now!”
The Rasalhague slowly turned, bringing her fresh armour to bare along her undamaged flank, ignoring the twenty-two LAM’s crawling along her back like an elephant ignored flies. Her unengaged guns guzzled power from their reactors, lining up on the burning, listing Matsu.
---
“Elementals!” One of the LAM pilots called out a warning. Ahead of the survivors of the Third the huge docking collar doors to the cargo hangars were opening and Elementals were pouring out, jets flaring as they jumped down. A mix of Gnomes and Rogue Bears whilst heavier Golems crawled along the hull to take up firing positions aiming weapons at the Draconis Combine LAMs.
“Samurai of the Third…it has been my pleasure and honour to lead you, let’s make these Bear bastards bleed!” Chu-Sa Kyle Reece slammed his feet down on the Screamer’s jump pedals, the broad LAM thundering forwards on pillars of fusion fire towards the still open drop collar. He ignored the Mech’s alerts of inbound missiles, the thuds of impacts across its armour; all that mattered was the open iris. He saw the cockpit of his friend and Aide Sho-sa Elrik Nga ripped open by a Rogue Bear, a black painted brute with crimson painted hands and claws, the pelt of a Ghost Bear held on its shoulders like a cape. He didn’t see his friend get pulled from the cockpit and thrown into the vacuum of space, he was too busy concentrating on dodging gunfire.
The final challenge would be a two hundred meter climb that he KNEW would bring him into the line of fire of the battleships point defence guns but he had to try. A dorsal gauss rifle turret snapped round s its sensors picked up a target rising out of its dead zone against the hull. A quick IFF challenge let the gunners know they could fire. One slug missed, crushing a Gnome Elemental into paste against the hull of the Rasalhague. The other though did not miss, smashing into the Screamer’s right rear side, crushing through armour before ripping into the mountings of the LAM’s jump jets. The sudden loss of thrust threw the fifty-five tonne machine into a sudden left turn which Reese had no hope of correcting, not at this speed.
He smiled and closed his eyes as the Screamer rammed into the open docking port at hundreds of kilometres per hour. The wreck bounced off the hull, tumbling inside before it slammed into the gantry for one of the dropships loading mechanisms and finally exploded as the remaining fuel went up along with the ammunition for the Mech’s MML’s.
Heavy blast damage wrecked the gantry which fell across and into the open docking iris but with it being exposed to vacuum there was no fire.
As the Third died to a man the Matsu finally gave up to the inevitable. Angered at the boarding action the Dominion Star Admiral made sure the Combine ship was destroyed. With her engines wrecked and armour rent there was little the Combine ship could do apart from die valiantly, her few remaining active weapons firing fitfully under local control, still gamely scoring hits before a massed volley from the Rasalhague’s undamaged flank ripped into the Matsu’s lower belly. The ship did not die in an eye watering explosion as her primary reactors were hit, more by chance than skill, but starved of power and wracked with internal fires and whole sections open to space the Matsu died slowly as internal fire induced explosions finally broke her back and slowly broke the ship up spreading fragments of her across the system.
Many months later the wrecked hulk would be found but she was deemed beyond repair and instead was broken up for salvage.
A hundred and thirty of her crew were rescued along with eighty-two fighter and DropShip crew and pilots. There were no survivors from the DCS Shimokita or the Third Yokosuma. Later that day with the wounded Leviathan still in orbit, elements of the Eighteenth Battle Cluster and 297th Battle Cluster arrived in system to support their brothers on the ground finding a few survivors from the Sixty-ninth Provisional Garrison and the First Kavalleri Clusters which were folded into other commands. Even with space and air superiority the Rasalhague Dominion are not able to secure the remains of Buckminster until the end of August when the last elements of the Third Yokosuma SNLF and the Eleventh Legion of Vega Regiments were destroyed. The Rasalhague Dominion victory on Benjamin also cuts off DCMS troops on Port Moseby forcing them to withdraw from that system or face destruction at the face of the Wolves.
Pirate stronghold
Laterus, Periphery
21st August 3104
The First Robinson Strikers LCT and McKinnon’s Raiders Battalion of the AFFS hot dropped onto Laterus on the periphery of the Federated Suns Draconis March. For months DMI Agents had been working inside a pirate raider stronghold. Laterus was known for two things firstly the system had an extensive vane of Germanium, which is critical for the construction of K-F Drives and a toxic atmosphere. Fighting in the hostile environment casualties was high on both sides with each breach of a cockpit, armour or infantry suit causing a death. For nearly four hours the elite AFFS troops contest the world against the pirates before declaring victory with the complete destruction of the pirate forces.
DMI Border Raids
Capellan March, Federated Suns
24th August 3104
Duchess Jaylen Davion disappears from St Ives in the Capellan March. There is no indication of foul play only that the Duchess and her personal BattleMech, and bodyguard lance, are missing. Over the coming months the Department of Military Intelligence launch a series of raids against the Capellan Confederation, the Taurian Concordat and the Kittery Prefecture searching for First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion’s daughter but they find no sign of her. Many citizens of St Ives believe that she had gone looking for her missing husband Duke Tristen Allard-Liao however there is no proof either way Duchess Melissa Allard-Liao, the Duchess of St Ives, retreats further into her Palace on St Ives withdrawing her thirteen year old son Lucian from the school he attended so he could be taught privately in the palace on St Ives. This withdrawal from public life decimates St Ives’ and the Allard-Liao's reputation in the Capellan March.
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that was one full scale battle of the battleline... great job. I had no idea on who I wanted to win
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O0 Great update! ;D Clan Wolf showing the FWL they can still take them down at the same time as they are attacking LC! And great writing Marauder648
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Wow, what rough way to go! Amazing writing DragonCat.
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I'm honoured DragonCat let me write a bit for his TL, and it seems the combined FWL forces got the door slam on their fingers by the Wolves. And a new warship huh..interesting! I also wonder what's happened to Jylen Davion.
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Woohoo! Mayhem and destruction! >:D
The wolves seem to have played their cards pretty well during the FWL offensives, when I first looked at what was being thrown at them I was a bit concerned that they'd end up taking massive losses in both territory and equipment.
Also great job marauder and DragonCat! O0
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Great naval battle.
The Leviathan II shows who's the boss. O0
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Time to move into September and firstly my thanks to the writing talents of James Tanaga who brings us some news from the Rim Collection
Medical Suite, President’s House
Gilfillan’s Gold, Rim Collection
Periphery
1st September, 3104
Damien Redburn watched mournfully as Matthew said his final goodbyes to his lover, Victoria crying in his lap. Damien knew it wouldn’t be long now, eyeing the deathly pale form of Karen Able lying on the hospital bed. Ever since she had given birth to her still-born second daughter nearly a year ago, the Rim Collection’s president hadn’t been the same, both physically and mentally. Yet, the last two months she had seemingly returned to her old self.
That was until yesterday’s stroke, he thought mirthlessly to himself, as he watched the younger FedSuns sailor stroke the Rimmer’s hair, while surrounded by the few House Able members who were planet side. It happened while he and Matt were in an HPG conference with the Federated Suns Minister of Commerce and Trade concerning Rim Motors’ recent and very public proposal to forcibly merge the bankrupt Salvatore Incorporated into their growing portfolio.
By the time the two, along with Damien’s own wife and daughter, had arrived at the President’s House, they received the news. Karen Able, Fourth President of the Second Collection, was likely brain dead.
The surgery earlier only confirmed the diagnosis.
It was not his place to watch the final goodbyes of Karen’s loved ones, he judged, as he turned and left, softly closing the door, making his way out of the Medical Suite and into the President’s House proper. His mind wondered as he effortlessly made his way through the residential complex.
“Even heaven weeps for her,” the voice of his daughter jerked him from his thoughts. He found himself standing out on a balcony, soaked, as the rain continued to pour. He shook his head.
“That it does, Brienne. That it does,” he answered before turning to face his seventeen-year old daughter. Studying her face, he knew.
Karen Able was dead.
Hours later, news of Karen Able’s death reverberates throughout the Rim Collection and into Lyran Commonwealth.
Water Gardens
Hiberius, Rim Collection
Periphery
2nd September, 3104
Congresswoman Megan Hall lay in the hot sands of Hiberius, watching the young children play in the Water Gardens as she enjoyed bathing in the sun. A year ago, she had surrendered her chance to become the rightful president against that toerag tyrant, Karen Able. All for the good of Hiberius and the Rim Collection, she allowed the Able to become the president, trusting in the mighty Mandrills to keep her in check.
And now, with the toerag’s opportunistic death, she had a choice. Support the President’s Council, filled with Able lackeys, and support their decision to make little Victoria Able in becoming the next President and destroy democracy as it stood in the Rim Collection. Or she could lead the charge to Gillfillan’s Gold and forcibly push for real democracy onto the Rim Collection. Something she knew the Old Man would have supported, ironically enough.
They had no love of one another, but she knew the toerag’s father had loved democracy as much as she, if not more so. But to act on this, she would risk the full might of the Mandrills. Their ire on her was not something she wanted, but if she could act quickly, she could force it down even their throats as a fait accompli. That is if she acted quickly in securing the President’s Council and the young Victoria Able…
She mused for another hour on the situation before nodding to herself. Her choice made and now she need to only throw in her dice.
Border fighting
Addicks, Addicks PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
10th September 3104
After the fighting on the Capellan Confederation’s border Prince Burton Davion continues to play the “Warrior Prince” like Davion Princes of history wading into the fighting on the Draconis Combine border defending the world of Addicks from a raid. The Prince does not shy away from battle instead standing in front of the DCMS raiders protecting the people of Addicks despite the danger. Burton Davion’s Templar III takes heavy damage while defeating three enemy BattleMechs and two tanks.
Subtlety (McKenna MOD-class Battleship)
Regulus, District of Regulus
Free Worlds League
11th September 3104
The Subtlety Profitable College of Military Arts arrives in the Regulus system and is escorted in by Regulan assault DropShips. Arriving over Regulus in the early morning of the sixteenth the Subtlety’s commander was invited to the planet’s surface. Over the course of the day Captain William Leroy-Deitrich and his crew were treated to tours of the training facilities on Regulus and dinner with Prince Lester Cameron-Jones and his family. Unsurprisingly, like Oriente and Canopus, the leadership on Regulus attempted to convince the Subtlety’s commander that Regulus was the home the Battleship and its attached College were looking for. Like the previous systems Captain Leroy-Deitrich refused the offer to remain permanently in the Regulus system instead agreeing for the training college to remain in the District of Regulus until the end of the year. During this time the Subtlety Profitable College of Military Arts works extensively with the people of Regulus inviting trainees from across the District on board the ship.
Take Over
Promised Land, District of Gibraltar
Free Worlds League
15th September 3104
For years the people of Promised Land had been ridiculed and discriminated against by the people of the Free Worlds League. Due to the planet’s high gravity and the use of genetic engineering to help the population resist the problems it causes on the health of a human body people from Promised Land were often depicted in entertainment vids and stories as being like the hunchbacked goblin creatures of nightmares. Exports from Promised Land were often charged at a higher rate while the Free Worlds League was happy to use the space stations in the system as trade points between other systems due to the low duty charges.
While appearing to be a loyal world of the District of Gibraltar the government of Promised Land had long been in talks with the Lyran Commonwealth negotiating the system’s path into House Steiner. Finally the time was right with support from the Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser the LCS Mitchell Simons the Thirty-second Lyran Guards RCT moved into the system. There they found elements of the Twelfth Tamarind Militia and the Galisteo, a Unity-class Frigate, which had recently been damaged fighting Clan Wolf in the Tamarind system.
With Promised Land transmitting the systems immediate and unconditional surrender to Lyran forces, the overwhelming firepower the LCAF had brought to bear and a promise of free passage to any other Free Worlds League system the Galisteo and the Twelfth Tamarind Militia both agreed to leave without a shot being fired. With fighting still occurring on several worlds along the Clan Wolf border the Free Worlds League knew that contesting the system would be a drain on resources they did not need; and considering the contempt many felt for Promised Land and its population of genetically engineered abominations most were happy to see the back of the system.
Unlike the Free Worlds League the new occupiers of Promised Land welcomed the system with open arms allowing the planetary leaders to rule their world as they choose. Instead of garrisoning the planet and keeping a close eye on the newly occupied system the Lyrans instead garrisoned the space stations at the Zenith and Nadir Points securing access to the system and the space station construction facilities that were Promised Land’s main export.
Glengarry Medical Facility
Glengarry, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
18th September 3104
Baroness von Glengarry Dana Carlyle looked over at her newly born twins as they lay in their cots sleeping peacefully. As she did Siobhan McCall entered giving her a small smile Siobhan was the granddaughter of Davis McCall, a famous warrior of Grey Death Legion fame, Siobhan was an accomplished warrior and was one of the Legionaries who had refused to join the unit when Dana sold the Legion to the Brewer Family. Most of the warriors like Siobhan had already left but she’d remained choosing to attaché herself to the Carlyle Family Guard, a non-existing unit before Dana sold the Legion but one that now stood at a full combined arms Battalion in strength. “How you doing?” She asked approaching the bed
“I’m good” Dana said in truth she was more tired than she had ever felt “they fought their way out just like wolves.” She said looking over at the twins.
“Have you thought of names?” Siobhan asked moving over to the cots looking over at Dana’s son and daughter.
“Vlad and Marialle” she said bringing a surprised glance from Siobhan which brought a smile to Dana’s face. “They are Marc’s children he was a member of the Ward Bloodhouse it honours him.”
“Do you know if Marc’s unit has been involved in the fighting?” The young warrior asked even though the Wolves had been attacked by the Free Worlds League recent reports suggested that Clan Wolf units had now struck at the Lyran worlds of Remulac and Savannah. Initial indicators were that the Wolves would secure both worlds from the Isle of Skye militia forces that had been left to defend them. If the Clan was successful the two conquests would place Clan Wolf’s border directly against Star League held territory which would no doubt bring further heavy fighting. Glengarry was fortunately far from any hostile borders.
“I don’t think so” Dana said she wasn’t sure exactly but she thought that Marc’s unit was still on Solaris VII. With the Solaris Games ongoing she hoped that his unit were still defending the Wolves who were taking part in the competition.
“Well at least these two are little more peaceful than their namesakes” she said looking down at the two babies.
“For now” Dana said she was better at being a doctor and a scientist than a warrior she hoped Vlad and Marialle followed her example instead of that of their father, Dana’s own parents or her grand parents.
LaGrange Points
Gilfillian’s Gold, Rim Collection
Periphery
21st September, 3104
The JumpShips carrying the First and Second Rim Guards CCT’s jumped into the system and immediately disgorged their DropShips and fighters as they race to the surface. On planet, the Rim Watch and the Rim Lancers act immediately, shepherding Victoria Able and her father to the Federated Suns embassy and promptly go into defensive positions around the complex.
Simultaneously, on Hiberius, the Third Rim Guards CCT launch an assault on the Rim Lancer positions, causing a three-way battle to break up as Fire Mandrills are forced to interfere.
Meanwhile, a plea for aid is sent out to all Rim Collection units and Clan Fire Mandrill to come to Victoria Able’s aid on Gilfillan’s Gold. Able Loyalist forces throughout the Collection begin working with one another to begin building a relief force, much to the ire of the Mandrills.
Launching ceremony
Bradford Memorial Shipyards, Coventry
Coventry Province, Lyran Commonwealth
22nd September 3104
The first ship to be launched from the Bradford Memorial Shipyards of Coventry slowly slipped out of its berth into open space for the first time. The LCS Thomas Fredrick Bradford was the first example of a new class to join the Lyran Commonwealth navy. For inspiration the designers at the Bradford Memorial Shipyards had looked into the past with their new class basing the design on the Commonwealth Light Cruiser of the Star League-era. Like the Robinson or Davion classes fielded by the Federated Suns the “new” Commonwealth was a modern interpretation of the classic design which made the most of new technology while playing on the strengths of the original design.
External observers on the Commonwealth class suspect that the Lyrans will add the Light Cruiser design to their current Battle Groups and expand the number of escorts attached to their Mjolnir-class Battle-cruisers. Observers also note that while the the Commonwealth is not the Battleship that the Lyran Commonwealth need to combat the Battleships fielded by Clan Wolf and Clan Jade Falcon.
Border fighting
Federated Suns
25th September 3104
Following the release of the Sixth Edition of the Unfinished Book, which has been named the Remembrance due to the influences of the Clans, Clans Snow Raven, Nova Cat and surprisingly Sea Fox all engage in fighting along the borders of the Federated Suns. While the battle against Clan Sea Fox is a simple honour duel between two warriors on Spica the fighting with the other Clans escalates rapidly with Clan Nova Cat seizing control over the system of Rentz while in one of their raids Clan Snow Raven’s Montbatton spars with the Federated Suns WarShip FSS Sword and Sun in the Bryceland system. The recently launched Mercury-class Battleship is more than a match for the Texas-class Battleship and both commanders are aware of each ship’s capabilities instead of the two WarShips battering each they agree to a series of honour trials.
During one such battle former Snow Raven leader Duchess Sterling McKenna-Davion takes part in an aerospace fighter duel. The former Khan’s presence on board the Sword and Sun had been kept secret before the battle however in her battle piloting a seventy ton Cutlass Aerospace Fighter shows that her skills have not diminished during her time outside of active combat service. Following the trials the commanders of the two WarShips agree to give each other’s crews a look inside each others WarShips and DropShips with both sides exchanging their thoughts on each of their vessels. Duchess Sterling McKenna-Davion’s presence is not too much of a problem for the Ravens as the Montbatton was the former Khan’s personal WarShip during her time as Khan. After nearly a week in the Bryceland system the Montbatton leaves Federated Suns space returning to the Raven Alliance.
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Nice update! Civil War in the Rim Collection!!! :)) Prince Burton leading from the front!! woo hoo! Thanks DragonCat and James Tanaga for this update! Keep it up!
Oh, a new light cruiser for the LC!
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A civil war in the Rim Collection, and that is supposed to be democratic.
Would have liked to see the result of a real battle between a Mercury and Texas.
The Lyrans launching a new light cruiser, well that will go well against the BB's it will be facing.
Great update DC.
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A civil war in the Rim Collection, and that is supposed to be democratic.
Would have liked to see the result of a real battle between a Mercury and Texas.
The Lyrans launching a new light cruiser, well that will go well against the BB's it will be facing.
Great update DC.
a BB can only be in one system. The JF have what four? That is a lot of land to cover. when its there it has command but there only a few BB's. having a lot of CL means you can cover more systems. the hard part is balance. you need BB's but you need to hit many systems in one wave in war.
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Great update again DC.
The problem with that, cawest, is that it's much easier for the Falcons to use their warships effectively on offensive and defensive operations merely due to the fact that they really only have 1 front to worry about and much fewer threatened planets per warship. Eventually, of course, the Falcons will end up losing due to attrition since the Lyrans have a larger everything building capability than the Falcons.
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Excellent update :) I did wonder how Stirling McKenna-Davion was doing and a new cruiser too!
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Bonus time!!
And time for me to say thanks again. This time to Vition2 who has created a fantastic looking map for this AU. It's accurate to the end of 3103 its close to the current map.
I've saved it into a zipped file when you open it open it with paint.
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Awesome and thank you!
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Thanks for the props, and I wish I was proficient enough to make a searchable pdf. So this is what I can do, glad you like it.
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Awesome map, great job Vition2. [cheers]
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Superb and very useful map, thanks folks!
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This update was originally smaller before James Tanaga got into it :D my thanks to a superb story line affecting the Rim Collection and Clan Fire Mandrill. With the ultimate curve-ball being thrown and me not seeing it until it happened
Also this month had one or two changes as I approached it
Originally a Succession Lord passed over leadership then delayed it
Then an heir to a Succession Lord died then I dropped it
Then the Ravens did something but that's been delayed too
Outskirts of Federated Suns Embassy Complex
Gilfillian’s Gold, Rim Collection
Periphery
3rd October, 3104
Galaxy Marshal Mandy Hall forced herself to keep from cursing in front of her troopers. On paper, her Guards’ were in an excellent position. The Rim Lancers and Rim Watch forces were surrounded and unable to escape. Moreover, they were positioned in an opened area, easy pickings for artillery units. And the best part? Her Guards’ had total aerial supremacy.
But in the field, that piece of advantage was only as good as a piece of toilet paper, for the Lancers had pulled a rabbit out of their hat and picked to defend the ONLY complex which she absolutely refused to use artillery and air support on. The Federated Suns embassy.
It gnawed at her, even while she reluctantly admitted the genius behind it. Attack it and the embassy security personnel would be “forced” to come to the defense of the Rim Lancers. It would also put Mandy Hall at odds with the Federated Suns and by extension the Star League Defence Force. Something she and her fellow warriors were loathed to do.
Yet it also meant the Lancers couldn’t attack as well, for it meant it would force her hand and order the attack. And so an unspoken agreement between the Rim Guards and the Rim Lancers had been formed.
And it unfortunately meant the Lancers were slowly winning, for two reasons. While her units were stuck here keeping the Rim Lancers from escaping, it meant Gilfillan’s Gold militia units were staging attacks on much-needed logistical and security needs in the capital. And second, far more importantly, it meant the much needed quick victory Megan Hall needed had evaporated, giving time for the Mandrills to answer the Lancers plea for aid.
And when that happens, Mandy thought disgusting, I will be forced to recall my forces and withdraw from Gilfillan’s Gold. The only bright side so far was two-thirds of the President’s Council and three-fourths of the Rim Congress were being held prisoner by her forces. That was something at least, at the very least they were a good bargaining chip.
For now, she resolved to keep her watch on the embassy, for it was all she and her forces could do. For now.
RCT Firebase Lost
Lost, Rim Collection
Periphery
6th October, 3104
Natasha Faraday studied the latest report from Gilfillian’s Gold with a scowl on her face. Heavy fighting had finally erupted around the FedRats compound between the Rim Guards and the outnumbered Rim Lancers upon the arrival of Lancer reinforcements into the system. The whole situation was rapidly escalating. She decided it was time for her clans’ response.
Getting up, she made her way through the Rim Collection Touman base on Lost to the comm center. There, she nodded to the Rim Ranger manning the HPG station. “All channels,” she announced as she folded her hands into her chest and gave her deadliest glare where she knew the holo-camera was.
Moments later, the technician nodded back, signaling to her she was on. “This is Khan Natasha Faraday of Clan Fire Mandrill. I regret to inform the Collection that heavy fighting between the Able and Hall factions within the Collection has finally broken out on Gilfillian’s Gold.”
She ignored the sounds of sucking of hair of those in the room as she continued. “In accordance with our agreement to defend the Collection from any threats, I am ordering Clan Fire Mandrill forces to intercede in this conflict and bring both sides to the table. All Rim Collection forces are ordered to remain at their posts during this time. Any and all who do not will be seen as enemies until this conflict has ended.”
She visibly sighed as she closed her eyes for a moment then continued to look at the camera, her glaze softening. “Clan Fire Mandrill will do what we must to bring peace back to the Collection, but that does not mean we will act as tyrants. We will not trample on your homes or rights as Collection citizens. You yourselves will be the ones to judge those who are attempting to force civil war within the Collection, not us. Nor will martial law be enacted all across the Rim Collection.
“I ask all citizens and civilians in the Collection to go about their lives. For those on Hiberius and Gilfillian’s Gold, I ask you to stay inside if you can and if not, to avoid the conflict zones. Clan Fire Mandrill will work to mitigate civilian losses, but cannot promise Able or Hall supporters will do the same.
“Finally, to our enemies and neighbors across our borders, I ask only this one question. Do you REALLY want to anger Clan Fire Mandrill? If you do, I invite you into the Collection. If you are smart, stay OUT of the Collection. Natasha Faraday from Lost signing off.”
Thirty minutes after her speech, Clan Fire Mandrill forces, under the command of saKhan Jonathan Banacek jump into Gilfillian’s Gold, beginning a cat and mouse game with Robin Michaelson’s Fourth Rim Lancers CCT and other Lancer reinforcements as both proceed to the planet at their quickest pace.
Greene
Timbuktu, Rim Collection
Periphery
11th October, 3104
Leonard Stewart sat watching the ongoing news like a hawk. At the moment, Clint Goldberg of INN was reporting from Gilfillan’s Gold on the now-three way conflict between the Lancers, Guards, and Mandrills. Curiously, his segment for today was on the newer equipment being seen in the conflict, particularly the Lancers and Mandrills.
“Those Snow Fox designs the Lancers are using go hand in hand with our stealth armor beautifully,” his daughter commented ask she drank a cup of tea.
“They’re all just one design, Rowena,” answered her brother, Karl, the design should have been in different configurations to make the most out of it. “Nice to see the Lancers made the Snow Fox into an actual OmniMech though.”
Leonard nodded at that. It was both nice and terrifying to see, for while it meant good things for the Collection itself, it meant his House was now in a tougher position within the nation. Something he long sought to remedy, but currently couldn’t.
“What do you make of that,” he asked his son as he nodded to the screen, where a small four-legged Mechs stood atop a hillside, the eye and pyramid of Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga on the left shoulder and the Fire Mandrill on the right showing where its loyalty stood.
“Some kind of knew ultra-light Mech maybe,” he answered. “Or possibly a new ProtoMech. The journalist reported it as belonging to a point of Amarok’s. Capabilities are unknown, though the journalist reported it was singularly guarding the Mandrill flanks from power armor forces, suggesting it’s likely a power armor killer.”
Leonard nodded at his son’s answer. He was the most technically gifted of those in the room. Then another ‘Mech caught his eye as it entered the screen, causing his daughter to whistle.
“I wonder where the Monkeys were hiding those,” she commented as the camera concentrated on the lumbering BattleMech. Leonard noted the biped BattleMech dwarfed many of the nearby Mechs as the camera zoomed out to show the others.
“They’re Kirghiz-G’s,” Karl informed them. “Weapon schemes of the Kirghiz put on a one hundred ton ‘Mech. Slower than most other Collection BattleMechs, but should be perfect for the Assault clusters. Khan Showers refused to allow Armory Gamma to build them for some unknown reason. Wasn’t expecting to see one for a while.”
“Just like she refused to build those,” Rowena pointed to two lighter OmniMechs in the frame.
Leonard caught his son’s shadow shrugging. “Crimson Langurs I think she refused them while they still had Armory Beta. The Langurs seem a bit specialized in comparison to the Shadow Cats they are now replacing.” He said the Mandrills changed what they produced more regularly than any Inner Sphere nation he had ever seen. There were more than thirty Shadow Cats in the Mandrill Touman but now it appeared the Clan wished to add another design at the expense of further Shadow Cats.
“Not like they’ve much a choice. The Mandrills rather build ‘Mechs from their own factories then get replacements from those they don’t,” Rowena replied nastily.
Leonard understood all too well why. The Mandrills had all but turned their noses on the fifty ton Ghost BattleMech the Stewarts had offered. At least their Khan had given the diplomatic answer of her Mandrills preferring OmniMechs to specialized BattleMechs. In their small Touman an OmniMech while more expensive was more useful to the Clan. Polite way of telling them to go to hell, he thought, though Leonard smartly kept that thought to himself.
Then the next video clip shook him. In the middle of Rim Guards’ Clints, Stingers, and Commandos, an Uziel BattleMech stood out. “That’s unexpected,” Rowena expressed.
The view of the fifty ton Uziel made Leonard Stewart think. Perhaps it was time for his family to intercede. “Wade,” he called out to his quiet son, who leaned against the wall behind the three. “Contact Caldarium and tell them I need to speak to the Rim Assault CCT’s commander.”
His two legitimate children turned towards him, judging by their shadows, as he heard Wade leave the room. “We don’t have enough forces alone to do anything,” Rowena answered, demanding he answer their unasked question.
“Alone, no, but if we unite with the Rim Assault CCT and other units, we might be able to send an ad hoc force the Mandrills would appreciate.”
“Thereby raising our standing even further,” she responded the Stewart family had fallen a long way to have to try and impress one of the Clans.
“Exactly,” he answered simply, smiling as the three again watching the news program.
Lyran Offensive
Dixie Theatre, Halfway Province
Lyran Commonwealth
18th October 3104
In an attempt to break Clan Wolf’s offensive into the Isle of Skye Lyran Commonwealth units and the mercenary commands Rubinsky’s Light Horse and Blackledge’s Iron Hand strike at Hyde, Lauram, Arcadia and Gienah. On Hyde the Twenty-fourth Lyran Guards RCT found the 271st Assault Cluster of Clan Wolf. Despite it being a veteran command the Wolf Cluster was no match for the numbers the Lyrans employed against them. Despite the odds the Wolves continued to resist the Lyrans for eight days before the last Clan forces were disabled or destroyed.
The Rubinsky’s Light Horse and Blackledge’s Iron Hand mercenary units move on Arcadia despite their dislike for each other the two units work seamlessly together on the planet’s surface outflanking the Wolves Twentieth BattleMech Cluster forcing the Wolves into retreat. Following the battle the two mercenary commands come close to brawling over their salvage claims and are only held apart by the commands of their liaison officers.
Both Arcadia and Gienah are found to be abandoned by Clan Wolf which has shifted its defences towards other fronts. On Gienah the Lyran forces find Gienah Automotives has been completely razed by the Wolves its civilian vehicle construction and primitive BattleMech facilities in ruins. Gienah’s economy had long been based on the economy of the worlds around it and while the Lyrans find that the Wolves did not intentionally harm the planet or its people they find that Clan Wolf’s restrictions of inter-planetary movement and trade has completely destroyed business on the planet. Of the nine hundred thousand population recorded before the Clan Wolf occupation of the system only three hundred thousand people remain the others distributed among the other worlds of Clan Wolf’s claimed territory. The Lyrans find that the Wolves withdrawn much of their border units to support their drive towards Terra as if to reinforce the point Clan Wolf launches attacks on Cheretan, Dubhe and Wing. The Lyran and SLDF defenders on the planet are able to force back back the Clan forces but their intent is quite clear.
With Gienah’s economy compromised by its occupation the population on the planet continue the exodus. In the space of a year by the end of 3105 the Gienah system’s population is reduced to a mere tens of thousands and is removed from most cartography maps.
Trials of Possession
Clan Coyote Occupation Zone
21st October 3104
Fighting erupts in the Clan Occupation Zones as Clan Coyote engage Clan Hell’s Horses in several Trials of Possession. The two Clans fight in adherence to Zellbrigen minimizing the damage done to both Clans. By the end of the year Clan Coyote has seized control over Skokie, Severn, Blota, Rastaban, Wheel and Orkney from the Hell’s Horses. The Horses do not counter-attack against the Coyotes instead they rotate their units through other systems training them against the established Horde Clusters as the Horses continue their training in the Mongol Doctrine.
Gold Mountains
Gilfillian’s Gold, Rim Collection
Periphery
23rd October, 3104
Jonathan Banacek grinded his teeth as he pushed forward his old Blood Asp. His forces, eight clusters of Mandrills, were locked in the middle of a three-way battle. To their flanks lay the shattered Lancers; in front, the battered Rim Guards. His forces had finally done it, but at a horrible price. One in three of his Warriors were either dead or combat-ineffective.
Worse, the Mandrills had battled up from the ravines, where artillery fired down upon them. Only the fact Robin Michaelson of the Lancers was now dead had allowed Banacek and his forces to slowly and painstakingly take the upper-hand as the Lancers were hit from both sides at once, eventually being pushed to both his flanks.
Another hit from a large laser reminded him the battle needed to end and end soon. Otherwise, the Collection’s and Mandrill enemies would begin to circle. Once again he cursed in rage at the stupidity of Natasha Faraday, who refused to take the obvious route to victory in allowing his forces to wait until both sides had exhausted themselves. Instead, she demanded he lead the forces in charging headlong into the fight.
The Collection would remember the day the Mandrills answered their call for peace, she had said at the time. And Banacek well knew riots for peace were happening all over the Collection in response to Natasha’s speech the Khan had really roused the freeborns with her words. But was it enough? That was the million-Kerensky question, he judged.
His radio erupted to life. “SaKhan, the Guards have entered the Embassy! Repeat! The Rim Guards are targeted the embassy!” Star Colonel Yu Nevversan reported. “The ambassador is leading his Rats and holding the Guards at bay for the moment.”
Jonathan cursed into his radio before sighing. “Deploy your Makos into the embassy. And help Redburn’s Rats.” The last he added as an afterthought.
He heard his subordinate cursed, then a sharp click. Both men well knew what the order meant. Yu Nevversan’s Makos, the sole Fire Mandrill unit Jonathan held in reserve, would soon be dropping into combat, task to safeguard Victoria Able at all costs. Jonathan knew the Makos would sustain heavy casualties, but Makos were known to accomplish the impossible. He only hoped he wasn’t wasting their lives.
The response to their communications was immediate with the Makos' Fortress-class DropShip diving down over the battlefield. The DropShip which had remained in orbit had been ready to deploy at a moments notice and that moment was now swooping down over the battlefield its engine flares blasting up a massive amount of dust as it came in low over the ground troops. From their elevated position the DropShip’s gunners expertly targeted hostile units below with autocannons, missiles and lasers as the craft's pilot moved into position over the Embassy. From the DropShip's cargo bays BattleMechs and Battle Armour troopers threw themselves into the battle below several of the elite Fire Mandrill warriors firing their weapons as they fell. Almost as quickly as the DropShip had arrived the craft's engines flared and she was gone accelerating back into the night's sky. The battle to hold the Embassy would take its toll on the Makos but of all the Mandrill units in the area they were the ones to hold the line; perhaps even more so than either of the Khan's Keshiks.
Six hours later, as he led his Keshik and elements of the Second Battle CCT and the Sixth Mandrill Militia into an attack on Third Rim Guards positions, his radio erupted to life. “All forces currently fighting on and in space around Gilfillian’s Gold, this is Khan Natasha Faraday.” Natasha? Here?! What the hell!
“I bring with me forces from all across the Collection. From Timbuktu and Caldarium. From the Trinity Worlds and Waypoint. From Wiltshire and Qurayyat. We are ALL here to end the fighting on Gilfillian’s Gold, one way or another. All non-Mandrill forces are ordered to cease and desist and to stand down. This is your one chance to remain Warriors of the Collection after this. This is Natasha Faraday out.”
Jonathan shook his head and frowned. Diplomacy had no part of the battlefield. But oddly, slowly, but surely, as Natasha’s adhoc force began to make their way planet side, Lancers not trapped in the embassy begun to steadily withdraw from the battlefield.
Yet, he grimly noticed the Guards begun to pull back as well. Not off the battlefield as he at first expected. No, he realized those his units were facing now fighting on the defense. And he knew why.
Victoria Able.
Their mission was to hold his and Natasha’s forces off while their compatriots fighting in the Embassy could capture the young Collection heir. And because of that, instead of doing the smart thing and allow his forces to wait until Natasha’s reinforcements arrived, he instead kept them engaging the Guards. His honor demanded that much.
Press Offic, AFFS Command
Robinson City, Robinson
Draconis March, Federated Suns
24th October 3104
Around the room half a dozen reporters stared into their cameras as they tried to compose their messages to the people of the Federated Suns. Bernie Michaels was one such reporter and he could barely believe what he was about to say looking into the camera he took a second to compose himself and then spoke.
“Ladies and Gentlemen” he said “initial reports from Addicks have filtered through to us here on Robinson that Prince Burton Davion has been shot and killed fighting against the Draconis Combine.” He said breathing deeply “Prince Davion had been fighting against the DCMS for the last two weeks and it now appears…” suddenly behind Bernie Michaels the doors sprung open and a sweating bedraggled looking man in AFFS uniform burst into the room.
“He’s alive!” The officer shouted out for all of them to hear “Burton Davion is alive! He’s been evacuated from Addicks and is on his way to a medical facility on Tikonov” the officer explained “the initial message from Addicks appears to have been a plant set by drac spies!” He said breathing deeply trying to catch is breath. Bernie Michaels turned back towards the screen.
“Ladies and gentlemen I apologize for my previous statement it appears to have been in error. Prince Burton Davion is alive it appears that he is on his way to Tikonov to recover from his injuries.” He said “it has been confirmed that over the last week DCMS forces have attacked Ingress, Deneb Kaitos, Towne and Murchison. Although authorities on Robinson have refused to acknowledge it if the fighting continues we will be in a defacto state of war with the Draconis Combine.
Federated Suns Embassy
Gilfillian’s Gold, Rim Collection
Periphery
26th October, 3104
Damien Redburn piloted his Templar through the battle, his face in a permanent grimace. He was proud of his staff. When the Rim Guards finally attacked three days ago, they had gone above and beyond his expectations, fighting off the best the Rim Guards until help had arrived.
But the cost had been great to the embassy’s security team and those aiding them. Before the battle, it consisted of two companies of BattleMechs, a conventional infantry company, and a platoon of Sniper Suit battle armor. This number was aided by Redburn’s eighty-five ton Templar OmniMech, DMI Agent Winters in her Enforcer III, and, lastly, Damien’s own daughter piloting Karen Able’s own Dire Wolf.
Now, after three days of combat, a mere six Mechs of that number were still standing. He thanked God his daughter was one of them; in fact he knew the Dire Wolf was in the best shape of the forces he led in the embassy. And judging by his scanners, he knew Star Colonel Yu Nevversan’s Makos were just as beat up.
How they had not been overrun until now was beyond him, but he knew this time there was no way they could stop the battered Rim Guards, even as he tore apart a Rim Guards Partisan tank with his three Rotary AC/2 cannons. On his sensors, he idly noticed his daughter destroying an enemy Clint even as she began facing a Firestarter OmniMech.
He shook his head as he continued his way through the battlefield, targeting a Merkava tank. Trust the Monkeys to “gift” Hiberius with that design after salvaging it from the Lyrans during the Kwangjong-ni debacle. Still, the workhorse OmniMech was downright dangerous in the hands of the Rim Guards, a fact he well knew. He forced himself to abandon watching his daughter and concentrate on destroying the Merkava heavy tank he was currently engaging.
An obsolete design, it was still very much deadly in the hands of the Hiberians. A fact well -earned since the Hiberians began their invasion on Gilfillan’s Gold. Only their Firestarters, Kangas, and Maxims were much of a threat on the common battlefield usually, yet teamwork had made their obsolete designs come through for them. If he lived through this battle, he resolved to give a dissertation at NAIS on the Hiberians tactics.
A moment later, he came out of his thoughts as the Merkava he was dueling with was suddenly destroyed by concentrated fire. Not from the air, as he expected, but from the ground.
Glancing down on his scanners, he couldn’t believe what he saw. Turning his mech around, he finally allowed himself to sigh in relief, as his radio erupted to life with cries of joy.
There, a Fire Mandrill Blood Asp stood, with more BattleMechs, OmniMechs, armor, and power armor units pouring around the OmniMech. Judging by the mechs and armor, it could only be Task Force Determination, as the forces saKhan Jonathan Banacek of the Fire Mandrills lead were called. His guess was soon proven correct a moment later as the Mandrill’s junior Khan’s voice piped into his radio.
“Ambassador, as soon as we secure the embassy, get moving to the rear! Star Colonel Spencer Douglass and his Fourth Assault Cluster will escort you out.”
“Agreed!” He answered back. Soon, the embassy was secured and he stood guard as Rim Watch personnel quickly scurried Matthew Davion and Victoria Able and other embassy occupants from the hidden bunker into waiting armored vehicles belonging to the ad hoc Fourth Assault Cluster.
It gnawed at him how quickly Khan Natasha Faraday and the Rim Collection had mobilized the forces she led here. A star from one unit, a point from another. A trinary here, a supernova there. The Collection couldn’t redeploy cluster level units beyond the Khan’s own Keshik and the Mandrill forces already on planet.
The solution? Ingenious! Or so he thought. Create ad hoc clusters from several different units, with those belonging to the same CCT or galaxy serving together to quickly form units that could operate well enough together in combat without overly weakening their home units for the short time they were needed elsewhere.
It came to him then, just after he gave the order for the convoy to move behind the Collection front line and finally into safety. The Khan had sacrificed her own Monkeys for the good of the Collection. Instead of allowing her Clan to become the predominant military power, she instead chose to keep the balancing act within the Collection’s military intact.
But why?
He shook his head. All he knew was that the Fire Mandrill Khan had thrown a giant curveball into what was expected of her. And it was something the First Prince needed to know as quickly as possible.
-
President’s House
Gilfillian’s Gold, Rim Collection
Periphery
30th October, 3104
Damien leaned against the back of his chair, deep in thought, as he and the Fire Mandrill Khans awaited HPG connection to be established. The junior Khan acted every bit a former Star Adder Damien expected to be highly practical and very strategic.
The senior Khan, Natasha Faraday, on the hand, he couldn’t figure out, except she was determined to throw curve-balls around. The last was just the biggest of them all, for all he was concerned.
“I still do not agree with your actions lately, Khan” he heard the younger man mutter to the young woman. “Still, I do understand them.”
“If you understand, yet do not agree with them, will you demand a Trial of Grievance as is your right,” he heard the younger woman queried back.
“Neg,” was the junior khan’s answer. “Though I may not agree with your actions in weakening the Clan, they do serve in strengthening the Collection,” Jonathan added.
“Doesn’t make sense to me,” Damien muttered loudly.
“But it does, Freeborn,” the saKhan answered him. “That dezgra Mandy Hall,” he all but spat the name, “executed nearly the entire President’s Council and a good portion of the Rim Congress during the Rim Guards occupation of this world. And while my Khan may be popular enough to become the next President, she resolves herself to not take the position, thereby continuing what she believes to be the much needed balancing act of keeping Clan Fire Mandrill subservient to the Collection.”
He shook his head. He didn’t believe it still even three days after the battle had finished when Mandy Hall had finally surrendered. Why a Clanner, whose loyalty should be with her own Clan, instead chose to strengthen the Collection was beyond him.
Just as it was beyond him by her very recent decision to instead nominate the “hero of the hour,” as the Rim Press was calling him these past few days, as the next President of the Rim Collection. “I doubt my sire will agree to this,” he answered back, bringing them back to the matter at hand.
“You could say no,” was the young woman’s simple response.
He grunted. “Unfortunately for me, I have begun seeing the Collection as my home away from home.” He caught her small smile as he continued on. “Any plan on what to grant the Able-loyalists? From my view, the Hiberians may have lost the battle, but won the war in getting me President.” He said seeing the two skeptical look on the two Clan warriors faces “well maybe not me” he admitted “but I am someone they could accept. Someone not affiliated with Karen Able’s rein and not a Clanner.” He said “as far as the people of Hiberus will be concerned Megan Hall did everything she promised so the people who were loyal to Karen have lost their leader and effectively lost the war.
“We are allowing them to remain Warriors, is that not enough?” Jonathan Banacek answered him acidly he did not understand what these people expected they were entitled to nothing it was his troops that ended the war his troops that saved their precious Collection.
Damien turned his head to face the younger man directly. “Honestly? No.”
Natasha raised her hand to forestall the expected response from the conservative Fire Mandrill Warrior. “I admit I myself do not understand what they truly want beyond protecting Victoria Able and her family,” was her reluctant reply.
Redburn nodded to her as he turned his head back to the holo-projector. An uncomfortable moment passed as the two Fire Mandrill Warriors awaited his response.
“The Collection was finally becoming a true nation, a true House at Karen’s death,” he answered them. Seeing the two Clanners still did not understand, he elaborated. “The other Inner Sphere nations are led by one family. Steiners in the Lyran Commonwealth, Davions in the Federated Suns. Kuritas in the Combine, the Liaos in the Capellan Confederation. The Calderons in the Concordat and the Centrellas in the Magistracy. As far as the Inner Sphere and Periphery are concerned each proper nation must have a ruling House. For them and many others, it’s that simple.”
“If that is the case, what of the United Marik States or the Star League Protectorate or the Clans?” Jonathan rebutted.
Damien decided not to correct the saKhan on the true name of the Free Worlds League. Allowing himself a small smile as he caught the deer in the headlights look on Natasha Faraday’s look as she caught on. “Even they are no different, with power belonging to a few families or bloodlines,” she announced a moment later, startling the junior Khan.
“We are nothing like them!” he yelled out in anger despite the Mandrill separation from the other Clans and their obvious differences in interacting with the Inner Sphere and Periphery nations the saKhan was a very proud trueborn Clansmen.
“Are we not?” she asked as she glared into his eyes. “There are Bloodhouses that always gain leadership positions Faraday, Kerensky, Ward, Truscott, Jorgennson, McKenna, Nagasawa, Drummond Rosse, Pryde, Hazen one way or another eventually they end up in power.” Was her swift and sharp rebuttal to Jonathan before she turned her gaze towards Damien’s own. “You have a suggestion, quiaff?”
He answered her with a nod. “Granting the Able-loyalists their wish would solve a lot of political and internal issues the Rim Collection currently faces, with one being an identity problem.”
He could see they were contemplating it. Mostly Natasha, but Damien also caught curiosity flicker in Jonathan Banacek’s eyes and so continued. “I propose for House Able to become the nominal leaders of the Rim Collection, with power shared between and largely held by the President’s Council, the Rim Congress, the governors, and Clan Fire Mandrill.”
“So we give them what they want and yet we hold the power, quiaff?” Jonathan surmised openly.
“Makes sense,” Natasha answered him. “We give the Able girl a fancy new title and some limited political power, the Collection once and for all becomes a proper Inner Sphere nation with its own House, and the illusion democracy once again flourishes within.”
“Exactly,” Damien agreed. “And now I finally understand why you want little old me to become president,” he commented further, sighing.
Natasha Faraday grinned at him in response, shrugging her shoulders as she did so. “You finally caught onto why it had to be you. Though I had no idea just how the Clans were so similar to your Houses,” she mused out loud.
“So does that mean you will take the job?” she asked a moment later.
“Damnit to hell!” Damien cursed out loud at their amused faces. “Only if he says yes!” he answered, waving a hand to the holo-projector. Moments later, they were in conference with First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion, informing him of the situation and the proposal to make Damien Redburn the Collection’s next President.
Several days later even as the dust was still settling in the aftermath of the Rim Collection civil war, seven-year old Victoria Able is announced as the first Sovereign of the Rim Collection, with her father, Matthew Davion, and older members of House Able as her regents until her thirteenth birthday. Surprising the interstellar community, however, is the choice of Ambassador Damien Redburn as the Rim Collection’s next president. In his speech, he sends a strong message of unity and reform, gaining many admirers from within the Collection.
Outwith the Rim Collection it is surmised that the internal conflict cost the Rim Collection almost six full military units with several of their high level commanders killed. Reports suggested as many as ten thousand civilians had died in the conflict along with dozens of civilian leaders killed either in the fighting or by Mandy Hall in her purge of the electorate. Observers note that with the political fallout created by the Civil War the Rim Collection’s partners in Clan Fire Mandrill are now in a stronger position than ever even with Redburn taking control over the political stage. They note that while the Clan cannot exert full control over the Collection anyone within the periphery nation would do so at their peril. Some long term analysts further believe that the civil conflict is not over in the Rim Collection but instead moved to a new stage one that will bring into question just who controls the nation? The Able family? The Politicians or Clan Fire Mandrill?
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wow the political acumen of the Mandrill's is shocking. gone is the old. i like and am taken aback at their transformation.
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I was wondering when the DC was going to take advantage of the FS' focus on the CC. On the other hand I'm surprised that they are attacking from the Dieron prefecture since they're also dealing with conflict on their Lyran front.
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Excellent updates and new Mechs, the Kirghiz G I assume means 'Ground'? Prince Davion sounds like he had a lucky escape, i'm sure we'll find the extent of his injuries soon.
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I was wondering when the DC was going to take advantage of the FS' focus on the CC. On the other hand I'm surprised that they are attacking from the Dieron prefecture since they're also dealing with conflict on their Lyran front.
Well the Dracs are also tangling with the Dominion too and with the CC conflict ended the Suns will be swinging stuff back towards them so it seems the Dracs are already trying to juggle too many balls at once.
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wow the political acumen of the Mandrill's is shocking. gone is the old. i like and am taken aback at their transformation.
I'd say there's always been a political element with the various Kindraas released from the restrictions of being in Clan space its something that's been allowed to develop.
I was wondering when the DC was going to take advantage of the FS' focus on the CC. On the other hand I'm surprised that they are attacking from the Dieron prefecture since they're also dealing with conflict on their Lyran front.
Benjamin running the fight against the LC Dieron running it against the Federated Suns
Excellent updates and new Mechs, the Kirghiz G I assume means 'Ground'? Prince Davion sounds like he had a lucky escape, i'm sure we'll find the extent of his injuries soon.
Yes to both
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FSJS Centari, Star Lord-class JumpShip
Nadir Jump Point, Terra
Star League Protectorate
9th November 3104
The development of the Lithium Fusion Battery Mk II had revolutionized travel across the Inner Sphere. Instead of a JumpShip taking months to travel across an interstellar nation ships with an LF Mk II could travel the space in weeks. When combining this with the command circuits the journey could be shortened to a matter of days this was how Duchess Sterling McKenna-Davion had made the journey five well placed JumpShips had taken her from the Raven Alliance border to the birthplace of humanity Terra.
“Sir there’s a signal from the flagship” the operations officer said turning in his seat Sterling realized after a moment that he was reporting to her instead of the ship’s commander.
“What do they report?” She asked
“Sir the Hanse reports that the First Prince’s party have arrived on Terra, you are expected on the planet at your first convenience.”
“And the Prince?” Sterling asked wondering if her husband had arrived in system yet. If he had she was ready to throttle him for his antics on Addicks.
“On board the Hanse, mam, his JumpShip arrived yesterday he’s currently in surgery on board the battleship.”
“Inform them I will be over shortly” she said turning to the JumpShip’s Commander “Captain Daniels thank you for carrying me here I suggest you leave quickly there are a lot of ships out there.”
“We will do Duchess it was a pleasure having you on board.” The old man replied.
To say there were a lot of ships in the area was an understatement the area was packed with sips from the various realms of the Star League and from the SLDF itself. It took nearly two hours for them to get clearance force the Ares Mk IX to travel over to the FSS Hanse Davion II. Once the craft was clear of its jump radius the Centari jumped back out of the system.
Moving from the small craft into the First Prince-class Battleship Duchess Sterling McKenna-Davion was surprised to be met by her husband, a heavily bandaged, Prince Burton Davion. “I thought you were in surgery” she said surprised to see him.
“My father needs me on Terra” he said motioning towards the small craft.
“Your father can manage” Sterling said angrily Victor Steiner-Davion had been First Prince of the Federated Suns for decades he could manage another conference. Burton on the other hand did not look well. His brown hair had been burnt on the left side while his left arm was bandaged heavily and strapped across his chest.
“I’m probably going to lose it” Burton said grimly following her gaze. “The doctors have left it attached to me to keep the blood flow going hoping for a miracle but it’s unlikely to heal one of them said the nerves were shot.”
“You should have remained on Tikonov” Sterling said she was still angry he had come to Terra there was no need for them to be there too.
“Nothing more they can do for me wait and see is what they said.”
“Then why the surgery?” She demanded
“Remove another piece of shrapnel from my back. Cockpit door shattered on my OmniMech fragments flew through the back of my chair.” The systems of his cockpit had also been affected which had caused the burns and shock to his arm.
“They are supposed to be armoured” she said deciding that she’d also likely be having words with the manufacturers on Kallon.
“Not built to take a shard of ferro fibrous armour it missed my spinal column but a couple of centimetres” he said turning around indicating with his right arm. “If that had happened I guess we wouldn’t be talking.”
“They can do incredible things with injuries” Sterling said thinking of Burton’s future he had his whole life ahead of him and she wouldn’t let him give up.
“Hey I know we will see when I return home.” He promised her. Soon after they left the Hanse Davion II heading for Terra to join up with the First Prince’s party who were already at the Whitting Conference Centre in Unity City.
Fourth Battle of Incukalns
Incukalns, Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
13th November 3104
The Lyran Commonwealth again try to liberate Incukalns from Clan Jade Falcon this time in the form of the Second Royal Guards RCT and the Eisenjagers Armoured Battalion. Escorted by the WarShips LCS Yggdrasil, a Mjolnir-class Battle-cruiser, and LCS Adam Steiner, a Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser, the RCT is able to fight its way to the planet and briefly contest the planet. In orbit the two LCAF WarShips engage the Turkina’s Might holding off the Battleship while causing significant damage to the craft forcing it to retreat from the system leaving the Jade Eagle
On the surface the Lyrans find the Jade Falcons have brought in units from elsewhere in their Occupation Zone to secure Incukalns. The Second Royal Guards take heavy damage over the course of their six week battle on Incukalns destroying two Clusters worth of Jade Falcons in the process. The arrival of the Falcon’s Nest and three Clusters of troops from Sudeten turn the balance against the Lyrans forcing them to abandon the system once more. Shielded by the two WarShips the Lyrans are able to escape past the Texas-class WarShip and the incoming Falcons. However the damage is done with the Second Royal Guards reduced to less than one third of its previous strength.
Elsewhere the strain of the fighting for Incukalns is beginning to show on the Jade Falcons as Lyran Commonwealth and mercenary forces liberate Pangkalan and Hood IV. On Hood IV the only defenders of the planet are a cluster worth of cadet warriors with none of the Mech pilots over the age of seventeen years. Several of the cadets are captured by the Lyrans and brought back to the Commonwealth. While on Pangkalan the Lyrans encounter Armoured forces, ProtoMechs and conventional infantry three branches of the Jade Falcon Touman rarely used to garrison planets without BattleMech support.
While efforts within the Jade Falcon Clan to increase warrior graduates and the flow of weapons continues the Clan is also continuing to explore other avenues for material trading the Pride of New Kent, a Carrack-class Transport, to the Starstrike Khanate of Clan Sea Fox and the Sarna Mercer, a Sovietskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser, to the Coyotes for ground units and aerospace fighters. Jade Falcon Khan Ruel Chistu also proposes that Harvest trials are held against the warriors of the Sea Fox and Coyotes to allow warriors who wished to fight their chance but both Clans refuse. Instead Chistu approaches the Loremaster of the Clans Miguel Icaza, a former Jade Falcon, for assistance. Miguel Icaza allows harvest trials to take place on Tukayyid with approximately two full clusters of warriors from the Ebon Guard joining Clan Jade Falcon by the end of December. The Jade Falcon Khan also allows the Third Ebon Guard Cluster to travel to Incukalns and fight alongside the Jade Falcons while still remaining under the Loremaster’s banner as a way to give this unit a chance of gaining combat experience.
Fifteenth Whitting Conference, Meeting Room
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
20th November 3104
First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion led his son Prince Burton Davion into the meeting room he’d been surprised at the extent of his son’s injuries, no-one had said his condition was that bad, already in the room sat Archon Jessica Steiner along with her one year old newborn and sister Ambassador Melinda-Anne Steiner. As the two Victor saw the Archon’s reaction to seeing Burton but also saw that she covered it very well. “Archon it is good to see you” he said trying to ignore it.
“Thank you Uncle” she said smiling Victor had not expected such a warm welcome it had been almost thirty years since they had last seen each other. Melinda had seen Victor often enough in her role as Lyran Ambassador to the Star League. “Cousin it appears you have been in a war” she said looking at a sheepish looking Burton Davion.
“A disagreement with a Combine raider, I’ll recover” he promised her.
“That’s good” she said looking back at the elder Davion. “Our nations have been linked for many years I’d like to continue that link.”
“What do you propose?” Victor asked cautiously sitting down opposite her Burton with his hurt ribs and other injuries sat down carefully his heavily bandaged left arm showing little life Victor had been injured several times during his career but he’d always gotten luck when it came to lasting injuries it appeared his son wasn’t so lucky.
“Well” she said glancing at her sister who nodded “I thought our first steps could be Burton accepting my request to become Isla’s Godfather. Melinda would support her but having a male figure who is strong” she saw Burton wince in his current condition likely the pain she throught “and not going to use her to gain prominence in the Lyran Commonwealth would be useful.”
“We’re half a sphere away” Burton said quietly before speaking more confidently “but I would be honoured. I hope I do not have to try and fill you or your husband’s place but if necessary I will help her.” He said glancing at the sleeping baby.
“Thank you” Jessica said as the door behind them opened and Commanding-General Victor Focht, of the Star League Defence Force, entered.
“Sorry am I interrupting?” He said remaining near the door.
“No we were waiting for you” Jessica Steiner said neither Victor or Burton had expected the arrival of the Commanding-General obviously part of Jessica’s plan for the Federated Suns to help her nation involved the Star League Defence Force. Before she spoke further Melinda-Anne Steiner stood up and took Isla from her mother before quietly leaving the room. “Commanding-General the Star League Defence Force has the same problem that the Lyran Commonwealth has” she said “the Star League Navy lacks a WarShip capable of matching those fielded by the Clans.”
“That is correct” he said “our shipyards are currently busy with designs that will be able to protect the Inner Sphere. We have few designs that can bring the fight to the enemy.”
“Neither can we” she said looking at Victor “but the Federated Suns can.” She said continuing “the Federated Suns has capable WarShip designs and shipyard space.”
“Which we are not ready to share” Victor said shocking his niece “understand Archon I would support the Lyran Commonwealth but not the Star League Defence Force, not militarily.” He said Victor Focht did not react instead he just looked back at the First Prince.
“Whatever is between you needs to be put aside” she said sternly Victor smiled admiring her tenacity. “We need assistance the Lyran Commonwealth and Star League Protectorate has Clans on their borders.”
“The Federated Suns also has Clans on its borders” Burton pointed out.
“Two Clans that have caused you no bother” Victor Focht said quietly “you are both members of the Star League Defence Force mutual defence is a key part of the Star League’s charter.”
“So it appears is espionage” the First Prince said looking at the Star League’s Commanding-General.
“Mistakes are made” was all the Commanding-General said.
“And those mistakes have jeopardized chances of cooperation and reduce the chances of sharing…” the First Prince snapped angrily looking directly at the SLDF officer.
“There is another option” Burton said calmly gaining surprised looks from all three others. Burton looked at his father “Indefatigable” was all he said.
“A drawing board exercise that will likely never be built” Victor said dismissively.
“It could be built” Burton said indicating he wished to speak further his father nodded “the Star League Defence Force will provide the WarShip Anti-Missile System which will be incorporated into the base design. You will both pay rates set by the Federated Suns and we will provide you with the Indefatigable-class Battleships.” He said the Federated Suns would ensure that they received enough payment to make the Indefatigable a reality for the Federated Suns Navy as well.
“There are still bugs in the WAMS…” Victor Focht began but caught Burton’s look “but they are not insurmountable I am sure we can work it out.” He said reading the Prince’s emotions which softened as he agreed to Burton’s terms.
“How long would it take to build these ships?” Jessica asked neither Burton nor Victor were engineers the best they could offer would be a guess.
“If we put a rush job on Galax and Hadrian perhaps within two years we could have the first vessels operational and ready for trials.” Burton said “until then we could spare some vessels to support.” He said glancing at his father “the Fifth?” His father raised an eyebrow surprised at his son’s suggestion the Fifth Battle Group was something the Federated Suns Navy had been attempting to form for months and something that the First Prince had opposed primarily because it was an assault force with two Battleships and none of the six ships smaller than a destroyer. Burton had wished to employ it against the Capellan Confederation but the fighting had been winding down to move the WarShips into position would have started another conflict. “They could be in place by March perhaps April” the Prince suggested.
“That would greatly assist in our defence” Jessica Steiner said gratefully. She would have preferred the WarShips to be accompanied by ground forces but knew when she was ahead and chose to remain quiet. Her military could handle the Falcons on the ground.
“I agree” Victor Focht said “the Star League Defence Force will fully compensate you for your assistance First Prince Davion.” He said the WarShip defence system was a start but the Commanding-General knew he’d have to take further steps to secure the Federated Suns continued support.
“And you have earned my vote in the upcoming elections” Jessica Steiner said.
“No” Victor Steiner-Davion said looking at his neice “you have mine.” He said looking back at the Lyran leader who looked surprised “a leader needs to be strong but also has to know when to ask for help.”
Fifteenth Whitting Conference, Davion Wing
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
24th November 3104
“You did what?” Burton snapped angrily looking at Duchess Sterling McKenna-Davion. Their children Luther and Leah were in bed in the room next to them, they’d been brought here with Burton’s parents, so the two of them spoke quietly.
“They are some of the best doctors in the Inner Sphere they can help you.”
“The Doctors on New Avalon will take care of me when the time comes” he said barely wanting to admit the left arm that was strapped across his body was more than dead weight.
“The sooner you start your treatment the sooner you will be able to pilot a Mech again” she said appealing to the warrior part of him “or how about being able to pick up one of your children” she snapped tired of his excuses. “You are here what harm could it do?” She demanded Burton nodded slowly “then you will meet with them?” She asked making sure he agreed with her. The Prince of the Federated Suns nodded once more he’d do as she wished.
Fifteenth Whitting Conference, Neigotiations
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
25th November 3104
The Federated Suns and Draconis Combine agree to end the fighting between their nations in talks mediated by the Star League Defence Force. The Combine will retain control over Deneb Kiatos, Hean and Ankaa which had already been secured by the DCMS. The Federated Suns continue to control Addicks, Towne and Murchison while an AFFS counter-attack had secured the system of Helen. The contested system of Ingress is announced as a new Star League Protectorate holding.
Retirement Announcement
Kathil, Kathil PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
26th November 3104
At one hundred-and-four years old Field Marshal of the Capellan March Nathaniel Hasek retires from active service with the AFFS. Command of the Capellan March officially passes to Duchess Kym Hasek. As one of her first acts is to announce the First Kathil Uhlans have been redesignated as a Regimental Combat Team and has been assigned the FSS Silver Shield, a Robinson Block III-class Transport, for ground support and transport. Also during the Duchess’ announcement the First Kestrel Grenadiers has been linked with an independent Armour Brigade taking it one step closer to a full RCT.
Public Disturbance, Cathay
Solaris City, Star League Protectorate
28th November 3104
For the last six hours Star Captain Marc Ward had worked with to restore order on the streets of Solaris City. It had started when Andert Radick, a Wolf trueborn warrior, had won the Solaris World Championship. His Mad Cat III-X had been tasked to join others in trying to restore order on the streets alongside the Star League defence force and so far his BattleMech had taken a beating fighting against rogue mercenaries and angry Solaris competitors.
Turning a darkened Cathy street he saw a Star League Defence Force Nightsky BattleMech “Star League BattleMech this is Wolf Striker Eight part of the Wolf liaison force please respond.”
“Wolf” the pilot seethed its massive arm mounted ax swiveling in front of him. “I am Amanda Stuart and I hold you responsible for this mess.”
“We are assisting you”
“Of course you are” she said firing her Mech’s particle cannon striking the Mad Cat’s side torso. With little room to maneuver he loosed two full flights of ten long range missiles striking all over the chest of the Nightsky. The SLDF BattleMech launched itself into the air firing down on the Mad Cat with lasers and particle cannons. These weapons bore down on Marc’s BattleMech burning the Ferro Lamellor armour that covered the Clan Mech. Now closer Marc opened fire on the Nightsky firing his lasers one of his lasers went wide while the other and the small lasers struck the Nightsky’s leg burning the armour there. As the Nightsky pilot landed the povited to the right ducking out of the way of Marc’s lasers embedding the ax deep in his Mech’s right leg just above the knee. At point blank range Marc let loose with everything he had left his last long range missiles and all four of his Mech’s micro lasers added to the medium lasers. At this range there was almost no chance of missing but the same could be said for the Nightsky its lasers burned through the last structure in his damaged leg severing the limb above the knee. As his Mech fell forward the Mad Cat III got caught on the Nightsky’s ax dragging the other Mech down with it the two Mechs fell in a heap with the Mad Cat missing a leg and laying face down and with the Nightsky on top of the other Mech neither was going very far very fast.
Nearly four hours later after peace had been restored to the streets an SLDF salvage crew arrived to remove the Nightsky and Mad Cat from the street. The salvage crew found that the Nightsky pilot had been killed by one of the Clan Mech’s lasers while Marc Ward had been trapped by the other Mech falling on top of him but was alive and well. The SLDF offered to return Marc Ward to his Clan following the battle but the Wolf refused instead stating that he was a bondsmen of the SLDF and would do what his new “Clan” ordered.
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Interesting update, a Suns designed BB, the Prince hurt but recovering and a captured Ristar. Good to see that the DC and Suns have also stopped fighting as well. Excellent stuff as always!
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good to see the younger Davion getting some leadership chops... or is that chops from this wife for being stubborn
.
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Odds of Marc Ward finding his way to Glengarry?
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3-5 odds
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Odds of Marc Ward finding his way to Glengarry?
Fair to middling.
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Uhoh, cracks are starting to show in the Falcon touman. Keep the Incukalns meat grinder churning and the Falcons seem to be losing the initiative.
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and the roll out of a common line of battle... :)
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Uhoh, cracks are starting to show in the Falcon touman. Keep the Incukalns meat grinder churning and the Falcons seem to be losing the initiative.
Very true, the world of Incukalns is turning into a Verdun with the Falcons being the French. I don't know why they are so obcessed about the world though.
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Fifteenth Whitting Conference, First Lord Election
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
1st December 3104
The Election of a new First Lord place within the Whitting Conference Centre in Unity City on Terra with the leaders of the Inner Sphere meeting in the main hall as promised First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion is the first to speak following an opening address by the outgoing First Lord Minoru Kurita. Victor states that they must all remember why the Star League was created and the good it has done before nominating Archon Jessica Steiner for the position.
Following Victor’s nomination of the Lyran leader Magestix Ilsa Centrella seconds the vote surprising the other members of the council. In opposition Draconis Combine leader Warlord Minoru Kurita nominates the Free Worlds League leader Captain-General Joseph Marik which is confirmed by Taurian Concordat leader Erik Martens-Calderon. With seemingly a deadlock from created by the other nation states and unable to attain the position himself Star League Protectorate leader Bannister Cameron, urged by Commanding-General Victor Focht, votes for Jessica Steiner to become the new First Lord of the Star League Defence Force.
Following the election of Jessica Steiner the Star League Defence Forces Commanding-General briefs the Council of the state of the SLDF. He states that the First Kittery Revenants Regimental Brigade has begun to form on Kittery while the Star League has made a deal with the Federated Suns to be supplied with a new class of WarShip and that Federated Suns WarShips would be assisting in the Star League Protectorate’s defence.
Duke Theodore Redburn of the Federated Suns is announced by First Prince Steiner-Davion as the new Federated Suns Ambassador to the Star League Defence Force. Theodore Redburn is the younger brother of recently announced President of the Rim Collection Damien Redburn. With no further outstanding business with the Star League Defence Force the various leaders break up ready to travel back to their own realms.
Fifteenth Whitting Conference, Davion Wing
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
5th December 3104
“You want to do what?” Victor Steiner-Davion looked at his son behind him his wife Danai Centrella-Davion stood silently watching the father and son.
“I’ve been speaking to doctors on Terra, I want to stay here and complete my recovery under their care.”
“The doctors on New Avalon are preparing for you” Victor said glancing at his son’s left arm it had shown little improvement since he’d arrived on Terra he knew what that meant.
“And with a command circuit I could see them in three weeks” Burton said “the doctors on Terra can see me tomorrow. I am entirely safe here” Burton said confidently “Governor Winsor-Cameron has offered us a villa in the south of France during our stay on Terra.”
“Our?” Danai asked
“Yes Sterling and the children will be staying too, you’re off baby sitting duties mother” Burton said smiling briefly it was a nice break from his discussion with his father.
“It is never a chore they are always good as gold.” She said stepping away
“I thought Sterling was setting in onboard the Sword and Sun?” Victor asked mentioning the WarShip Burton’s wife had recently been serving on.
“She is and she appreciate’s the opportunity” Burton said for a moment he was glad the former Snow Raven Khan was not here to argue her point instead she was with their children taking a tour around Unity City. “But she also agrees with me this will be good for us.”
“Good for you?” Victor bristled picking up on something from what his son had said “is there something wrong with your home?”
“No” Burton said pausing for a moment finding the words “you said to me years ago that you, your brothers and sisters drifted apart because you were posted across the Federated Commonwealth…”
“It was our duty…” Victor began but Burton spoke over him as Danai moved up beside her husband linking her hand with his.
“You said that when it came down to it Katherine thought she was better than you because she didn’t know you, she didn’t know what made you tick, she didn’t know that in time you would learn how to overcome anything that you would come across.” Burton said he was proud of his father’s achievements but he didn’t want to face the same problems the elder Davion had faced. Victor could not argue with his son he often thought what might have been if he’d been closer with Katherine, Peter, Yvonne and Arthur when they were younger instead of really meeting them when they were grown up.
“I want my daughter and son to know each other to know their parents” Burton said “and I want to be able to pick them up if they fall.” He said referring to his arm “I think this is the best way for both of them.” Victor reluctantly nodded agreeing with his son glancing at his wife he saw that Danai agreed with her son’s choice.
“I will detach a segment of the First Davion Guards RCT they will also remain on Terra and will be your guardians.”
“They won’t be needed” Burton said confidently.
“I don’t care” Victor said sternly “you are my son and your family will have guards from your homeland.” He said Burton nodded not willing to argue with his father over something like that.
Over the course of the next three weeks Prince Burton Davion underwent a series of assessments and physiotherapy attempting to bring his left arm back to life but there was little in the way of progress. Instead on the 29th Burton undergoes an operation to amputate the left arm from the shoulder down in preparation for him being fitted with an artificial limb. Meanwhile Duchess Sterling McKenna-Davion and her children Luther and Leah become celebrities of Terra and are mobbed by adoring public everywhere they go as they are treated to the sights of the planet. While providing security for Burton and his family the combined-arms Regiment left behind by the First Davion Guards RCT are able to train at some of the most advanced combat ranges ever devised by man and train against the SLDF units based on the world of humanities origin.
Talk Inner Sphere, Interstellar News Network
Geneva, Europe
Terra, Star League Protectorate
7th December 3104
“Ladies and Gentlemen welcome to Talk Inner Sphere my name is Malek Thorne” the presenter said he was in his forties with long dark hair that was tied up in a topknot popular in the Federated Suns “and today’s question is a simple one. Has the Star League failed us and is it time for the Inner Sphere nations to retake their individuality and sunder the Star League?” He said as the camera pulled back to show a panel of guests waiting to speak. “With the Fifteenth Whitting Conference ending at the Conference Centre in Unity City and the Succession Lords returning home the question has been asked ladies and gentlemen the floor is open.”
“The answer is no” Neil Berton, a former SLDF Major and member of the the Star League Advisory Council said.
“How can you say that? There is more fighting in the Inner Sphere now than there has been since the Succession Wars.” Malek said “there have been renewed conflicts with every single one of the Clans the Star League recently had to mediate a dispute between two of its member states.”
“Exactly the Star League Defence Force has done its job!” Berton said “the Star League was recreated to bring about the end to the Clan Invasion, the destruction of Clan Smoke Jaguar and to give the Inner Sphere a neutral place to sort out their differences like ComStar did during the Succession Wars but without their covert nature.”
“Says a man who used to work for them” the Capellan Confederation representative said.
“You have something to say Lukas Holt?” Thorne asked looking at the man dressed in the traditional robes of a Confederation nobleman his long dark hair tied up.
“The birth of the Star League Defence Force has also seen the rebirth of the Terran Hegemony in spirit if not name.” He said accusingly “soon the Star League will tell us all that their Protectorate is no more and a new Hegemony will have risen in its place.”
“Preposterous” Berton said angrily
“Intelligence from the Confederation suggests that the so called Guard regiments are covers for dozens of Divisions that have been raised in secret behind the walls of the Protectorate ready to rise up when the time is right. We believe they have hundreds of the hated M5 Casper Drones and that they have been trying to create entire regiments of Drone BattleMechs they are ready to replace flesh and blood with machine!”
“That is the Capellan Confederation’s opinion but not one that represents all of the Inner Sphere.” Hibiki Marata of the Draconis Combine said “the Star League Defence Force has created a Protectorate for the worlds that were devastated during the Succession Wars, a place where we can negotiate and a place where we can freely trade together without fear of our people being attacked. The Star League Defence Force has supported us in our defence against the Clans.”
“What of the renewed joint invasion of the Lyran Commonwealth? Clan Hell’s Horses forces have attacked Atocongo, New Extford and Kandersteg while the Jade Falcons continue to hold Incukalns despite concentrated attempts to capture the world by the Lyrans and the Star League Defence Force.” Patrick Taubuck a representative of the Lyran Commonwealth said.
“It is not united” Berton replied “those Clans are operating independent of each other. Reports suggest that the Hell’s Horses recently captured two Jade Falcon worlds as well as attacking the three worlds of the Commonwealth.” He said “while it’s suggested that the Coyotes and Rasalhague Dominion have also taken more than a dozen worlds from the Hell’s Horses.”
“Limited Trials of Possession” Malcolm Nirveeton of the Federated Suns said “analysis of the reports from the Occupation Zones suggest that the worlds fought over by the four Clans away from the Inner Sphere are being dealt with in traditional Trials of Possession following the ritualized form of Combat so cherished by the Clans during their initial invasion. We know that the Clans are cut off from the Kerensky Cluster and the other worlds that birthed them, what exactly happened to cause this we do not know, and because of this the Clans have worked out a way for them to engage in these “Honour Trials” which remind them of how they used to fight in the Clan Homeworlds and allows individual warriors to revel in the combat that they find so appealing.” He said “we have seen similar moves made recently by the Sea Fox, Snow Raven and Nova Cat Clans which follow a similar pattern they enter the space of an Inner Sphere held world and challenge the defenders to an honourable battle. The Clans attempt to engage in the ritualized bidding and combat that they used during the initial invasion they take what they lose or leave with what they win.”
“They are little more than pirates” Lukas Holt sneered suggesting that the Confederation had faced similar raids.
“The only Clan that has not engaged in such matters is Clan Wolf” the last member of the panel Ava Taylor of the Free Worlds League said. “When Clan Wolf attack they come to claim territory and when they defend they defend with everything they have. Their successes speak for themselves of all the Clans they are the only one who is within striking distance of Terra.”
“There are Hell’s Horses forces on Terra Firma” Berton noted.
“A small force mainly made up of old Mechs and warriors guarding a crashsite and some traders.” Taylor replied “the Wolves on the other hand are young, well equipped warriors with a desire to see Terra held in Clan hands or burned to a cinder.”
“And that is why the Star League stands” Berton said “you ask if the Star League Defence Force has succeeded I say yes. Without a standing Star League the Inner Sphere could easily have been consumed in another conflict on par with the Succession Wars but worse now because of the continued Clan threat. Instead we have safeguarded Terra, rebuilt the worlds devastated by the Succession Wars and held the Clans in their Occupation Zones. I saw that the Star League Defence Force is a success and should stand to see another fifteen Whitting Conferences.” Berton said passionately his belief in the Star League unshaken by the events in the Clan Occupation Zones or the infighting between the various Succession States. Lukas Holt of the Capellan Confederation continued to look unimpressed his warning that the Star League Protectorate was nothing but the Terran Hegemony reborn continuing to hang over everything despite Berton’s assurances. And the question remained was the SLDF being successful? Was it bringing about a new golden age?
Border conflict
Millungera, District of Gibraltar
Free Worlds League
17th December 3104
The defection of Promised Land spurs a deeper strike from Lyran troops assaulting Millungera despite the continued fighting on the Clan Wolf and Clan Jade Falcon borders. Millungera falls within eight hours as the Thirty-second Lyran Guards RCT pushing elements of the Second Tamarind Militia Regiment off the planet with minimal damage. The District of Gibraltar counter attacks against Cavanaugh II, Dixie and Timbiqui but they are unable to budge the Lyran defences. The border fighting between the two successor states brings some much needed breathing room for Clan Wolf who were beginning to feel pressed by the fighting along their borders.
Internal Change
Military District of Dieron, Draconis Combine
20th December 3104
With Dieron based troops securing worlds on the Federated Suns border and securing Aubisson from Clan Ghost Bear Warlord Minoru Kurita chooses to award the Warlord of Dieron and the Dieron Military District with control over eight worlds from the Benjamin Military District literally redrawing the District lines inside the Draconis Combine. Minoru also directs that the Warlord of Dieron should have all control over the disputed region being fought over by the Rasalhague Dominion, Lyran Commonwealth and his own Draconis Combine. These two factors cause great dishonour on the Warlord of Benjamin Mitsura Sakamoto.
Morven City Outskirts
Morven, Nova Cat’s Den
Periphery
29th December 3104
Following intelligence that suggested Clan Nova Cat was forcefully relocating entire neighbourhoods within their held territory by destroying people’s home and publically executing those who refused the First Tikonov Lancers RCT on Filtvelt had acted attempting to come to the defence of the planet’s population. Jumping in at a pirate point they had avoided the Nova Cat Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser Sabretooth and burned towards the planet’s surface.
Moving his Musketeer Hovertank through the outskirts of the planet’s surface Subaltern Mikhail Kvyat noticed something wrong almost immediately. “This is Charlie Four to command” he called out hearing a response soon after “sir, everything looks very normal here…” He said his voice trailing off as he looked through his monitors “people are going on with their normal business.” His commander replied a moment later “yes sir, but I mean the only thing out of place here is our tank” he said leaning to the right for a moment as his commander nearly screamed down the radio. “Yes sir, I understand that but you’re not seeing what I am there’s no destruction here you could place this neighbourhood down anywhere in the Inner Sphere.” He said glancing down at his sensors he saw something up ahead. “I’ve got a problem here” he said “no a big ****** problem, sir, I’ve got two Snow Tiger OmniVehicles approaching.” Mikhail turned to the other crewmen “we’re getting the hell out of here.” He said to them forgetting his microphone was still on “yes sir, we’re retreating” he said as the Musketeer began to turn he hoped that the Nova Cats wouldn’t fire as the Federated Suns vehicle hadn’t fire on them.
Moments later his fears were answered as two gauss slugs flew over the hovertank “there’s no way that was an accident” he said glancing at the sensors then at the other crewmen the two shots had missed by less than ten metres flying over the Musketeer’s turret. “Command, they are firing warning shots we’re in full retreat, Command respond!” Mikhail called out as the vehicle’s driver poured on the speed taking the craft back down the street behind them the two Snow Tiger OmniVehicles followed neither firing but Mikhail knew their gauss rifles were in range.
As they cleared the outskirts of Morven City the Musketeer suddenly accelerated to its maximum speed. Behind them the two Snow Tigers accelerated to match them keeping the Cossacks Hovercraft in range of their gauss rifles. “We’ve got incoming” Mikhail called out as the two Snow Tigers fired again this time their shots were on target and both slammed into the rear and left hand side of the the hovertank. The armour held but it was a clear message as on the sensors Mikhail saw the rest of the hovertanks of his platoon were in full retreat chased by hovertanks, VTOLs, ProtoMechs and OmniMechs. “Oh no” Mikhail said as he switched to long range sensors he saw the Tikonov Cossacks landing zones were being besieged by Nova Cat heavy and assaut Mechs and vehicles. “Charlie Four to Base anyone there? Where do you want us?” He asked noticing the Snow Tigers happy that the Musketeer wasn’t fighting them had broken off their pursuit. “Come in base” he repeated as the closed on range. “Forget it!” He shouted “boys pull left ready main gun and missiles target is Nova Cat II OmniMech on our right side. We hit them in the back with the cannon then follow up with streaks as we pass. He said as the Musketeer closed on the heavy OmniMech twisted to attack them its autocannons, short range missiles and pulse lasers all opening up on the fast moving hovercraft as it closed its range. Even as the Hovercraft’s armour was opened by the Nova Cat’s weapons fire the Musketeer’s own rotary autocannon began to cut into the Nova Cat’s armour its SRMs following up as the Musketeer passed by the Nova Cat II.
The reason why the BattleMech, and its more advanced cousin the OmniMech, dominated the battlefield in the thirty-second century was made clear in this battle between the Nova Cat II and the Musketeer. While the Nova Cat II took the hits from the autocannon and missiles to its armour with barely a consideration the Musketeer was not so lucky the autocannon fire, missiles and lasers of the Nova Cat tore into the fast moving hovercraft and then as the Musketeer past by the OmniMech its torso twist capacity allowed it to track the Musketeer and finish off the vehicle with a second volley lasers and autocannons opening up the armour while short range missiles blew open the armour destroying the hovercraft. Even as the Musketeer died a second volley from its rotary cannon ripped across the Nova Cat II’s torso but to no effect the heavy OmniMech turning towards its next target.
Across the battlefield a similar story was repeated as the two on planet Nova Cat clusters peppered the AFFS RCT remaining at long range to cause damage to the invaders. With their JumpShips confirming that the Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser in system was heading towards the planet and no evidence to support the intelligence that had led to the attack the remaining Tikonov Cossacks abandon the planet leaving nearly two regiments of equipment and personnel that had been destroyed by the Nova Cats. Both of the Clan clusters that had engaged the Cossacks had lost half their strength but both remained operational ready to defend from a second attack and to recover the salvage left behind. From the planet back to their JumpShips the Cossacks raced as the Sabretooth headed in system the seven hundred-and-forty thousand tonne WarShip maintaining its speed trying to catch the RCT. The Cossacks were moving too fast for the WarShip to make the intercept but the damage was done even as the AFFS unit jumped back towards Filtvelt the Federated Suns can only brace itself for the Nova Cat reprisals.
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Attached is the end of 3104 Unit list with added Clan Wolf and Clan Mountain Wolf
while this link takes you to the map for end of 3104
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/dragon-cat-collection/3081-map/15/#lastPost (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/dragon-cat-collection/3081-map/15/#lastPost)
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Good update and unit list, can't wait to see the mercenary units added ;)
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Looks like a good time for a revolt by the Warlord of Benjamin.
Maybe independence for the region with support of the Star League. :D
I notice in the Capellan regiments you had St.Cry's regiment. Was that supposed to be St.Cyr's or are you trying to tell us something. ;D O0
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will you post and updated warship list?
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Looks like a good time for a revolt by the Warlord of Benjamin.
Maybe independence for the region with support of the Star League. :D
I notice in the Capellan regiments you had St.Cry's regiment. Was that supposed to be St.Cyr's or are you trying to tell us something. ;D O0
Nice catch
will you post and updated warship list?
Knew I'd forgotten something... attached to this post
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Excellent update, the Suns forces really got kicked in the teeth for that territorial incursion. Jessica could easily use the SLDF forces to help defend her borders from the Falcons if she can call them up for that. I thought Burton would be fitted with a cybernetic, hopefully there won't be any issues with that and good to see Stirling's doing well, she's adjusted well to Spheroid life for sure!
Those changes within the DC could be interesting, the slight to the Warlords honor could cause...issues.
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“There are Hell’s Horses forces on Terra Firma” Berton noted. “A small force mainly made up of old Mechs and warriors guarding a crashsite and some traders.”
Define old Mechs: ancient Star League 1, older first gen. Omni, old second Gen.-Jihad Omni-Standard or Industrial Mechs that were built in the last century?
TT
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Define old Mechs: ancient Star League 1, older first gen. Omni, old second Gen.-Jihad Omni-Standard or Industrial Mechs that were built in the last century?
TT
A Binary of Clan standard armoured vehicles, a binary of Emerald Harrier BattleMechs from XTRO Republic I and a Binary of standard Elementals.
Clan Wolf also has a Nova of BattleMechs and of conventional infantry
While the Sea Fox merchants that call the enclave home have a Star of Mechs with some conventional infantry to protect their trade post
There is an enclave of approximately 10,000 situated near and around the wrecked Hell's Horses WarShip Pillar of Autumn
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Hmmm....
I wonder...
If a ship crashes, how much of it is really destroyed and how much could be salvaged and repaired / brought back online?
And thanks, good to know!
TT
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Well every ship in BattleTech can land... once
The Pillar of Autumn was battered by Manei Domini forces in 3092. Her K-F Drive was destroyed in battle her thrusters failing she then entered the atmosphere before slamming into the ground.
She's a wreck. There's little of the ship actually left the only reason I fluffed it as surviving is because of the high structural integrity it has. The Horses initially agreed to clean up the mess and have never left, the Foxes seized on it as a trade post and the Wolves seeing themselves as the leading Clan wanted to be involved too.
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*quietly imagines it something like this*
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RH5s4y3p8VY
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There's little of the ship actually left the only reason I fluffed it as surviving is because of the high structural integrity it has.
The stats for the original Halcyon in the Halo games give it almost obscene durability:
The most noteworthy design feature was a series of internal cross bracings and honeycombs that made the ships surprisingly resistant to battle damage; ships of the class were able to remain operational despite sustaining breaches to all compartments and losing 90% of their armor.
So when I converted them over, I gave a Heavy Cruiser near Battleship grade structural integrity.
*quietly imagines it something like this*
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RH5s4y3p8VY
I have no idea what mass a Super Star Destroyer has, but it should have left an impact like this:
(http://i131.photobucket.com/albums/p313/Starbug360/h_az_meteorcrater_02_zpsn6gvbikl.jpg)
And the blast wave should have leveled the battlefield for miles around.
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The impact for the SSD seems to be fairly small because she comes down seemingly under control instead of just plumetting, you can hear the engines still working and her drives trying to halt or at least slow the descent, but when she starts that roll, its too much and crunch. More a controlled crash rather than an uncontrolled descent.
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I think, Dragon Cat. My favorite part of your latest entry in the on-going saga of your Alternate timeline is the passage between Burton Davion and his storied Father, Victor. It seem to speak of something that's never truly (in my opinion) has ever been said aloud. True situation and falling between Vic and his late siblings.
Part me wishes that what was said was dead on, it felt like it but you never can tell these days.
Thanks again, Dragon Cat!
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durability:So when I converted them over, I gave a Heavy Cruiser near Battleship grade structural integrity.
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/hell's-horses-designs/ (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/techlab/hell's-horses-designs/)
I tried to make it tough enough to take some hits
I think, Dragon Cat. My favorite part of your latest entry in the on-going saga of your Alternate timeline is the passage between Burton Davion and his storied Father, Victor. It seem to speak of something that's never truly (in my opinion) has ever been said aloud. True situation and falling between Vic and his late siblings.
I'm glad you liked it it's one of my favourite parts when I can explore Victor's family
I think there was something similar to it said in Ghost War by Mason Dunne to Janella Lakewood at one point when they were talking about Victor's past and why he accepted Mason as his gardener (read project) either that or one of the Civil War books. I've mentioned it once or twice before in a discussion between Victor and Danai or maybe even Canin Rosse of the Nova Cats. I can't remember
I'm going the simple route taking Victor and having him look back over his life and decisions ignoring what others might have planned or the other factors. In this AU he's lived the life of a First Prince leaving the "Inner Sphere hero" title far behind I've tried to focus that even in the negotiations with the SLDF and Lyrans Victor was holding a grudge against the SLDF but his son saw the bonuses it could bring.
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Stepping into 3105
3105
Draconis Combine Raid
Orestes District, Rasalhague Dominion
9th January 3105
The Warlord of Benjamin Mitsura Sakamoto feeling dishonoured by Warlord Minoru Kurita’s decision to award Dieron’s successes by transferring planets from Benjamin’s control to Dieron leads a personal attack on the Rasalhague Dominion planet of Kiesan leading the Ninth Sword of Light Regiment.
Landing on the planet the Warlord leads the Regiment from his Dragon BattleMech against the Ghost Bears of the 115th Striker Cluster and Nineteenth Battle Cluster of the Rasalhague Dominion. In the opening volleys of the battle the Warlord’s Dragon was cut down by the massed fire of the Bears against them. Within two days of battle the Ninth Sword of Light Regiment is completely destroyed by the Rasalhague Dominion forces.
Inside the Draconis Combine Shichiro Hayashida is named as the new Warlord of the Benjamin District by Warlord Minoru Kurita and is tasked with preparing the District of Benjamin for the Ghost Bear’s counter attack.
Nova Cat Counter-attack
Crucis March, Federated Suns
18th January 3105
Following the Federated Suns Raid against Clan Nova Cat’s territory the Clan counter attacks against the Federated Suns periphery regions striking at multiple worlds in heavy raids. For the most part the Nova Cat’s restrict these attacks to simple Trials of Possession however they also seize the sytems of Skepptana, Maram, Sodertalje and Adelson. The Nova Cat’s take their raids a step further with the elite Forty-fourth Nova Cat Cavaliers Cluster raiding Malagrotta distracting command elements of the Ninth Crucis Lancers RCT from defending against the Nova Cat raids. The Forty-fourth keeps the Ninth Crucis busy for two weeks before abandoning the system and returning to the Nova Cat’s Den.
Raids and Counter-attacks
Coventry Province, Lyran Commonwealth
19th January 3105
As Clan Jade Falcon continue their efforts to keep the Lyran Commonwealth off balance three Clusters Solahma troops launch raids against the Lyran and Mountain Wolf supply lines on New Capetown, Bluque and Krievci. These raids are little more than suicide runs with all three Solahma destroyed by the Lyran Commonwealth, Mountain Wolf and Star League Defence Force units.
Despite the Solahma attacks the Lyran Commonwealth raids and successfully liberates Kolovrety, Annuniziata and Chapultepec from Clan Jade Falcon control. The Lyrans find little resistance from the Jade Falcons who have stripped units from the periphery area of their Occupation Zone to hold onto other more important systems.
Marseille Royal Hospital
Marseille, France
Terra, Star League Protectorate
23rd January 3105
It had been a week since Prince Burton Davion had been fitted with the myomer replacement arm the doctors had said it would have to be unpowered to allow his body to adjust to its presence before they took the next step and now was the day for the next step. “Prince Davion we are activating the power source now. You will feel a slight twinge” one of the doctors said “I’d like you to try to remain calm and do not try to move the arm” he said. A few moments later Burton felt like someone had sent a searing poker through his side he remained in position as the pain passed slowly before it was completely gone. “Prince Davion are you still with us?”
“Barely” Burton admitted clenching his right fist surprising himself the myomer left arm clenched the arm’s fist as well. “Damn” he said smiling opening both fists then closing his flesh hand and then the mechanical one separately.
“Very nice Burton” the doctor said as Burton tried to raise his arm sideways his flesh and blood arm move with ease but the other didn’t move. “Slowly” the doctor said seeing Burton’s frustration building “the new arm needs to learn how to work with you it’s not going to work overnight its all about muscle memory just like the real thing you need to teach this arm how to behave.”
“And once it knows what its doing?”
“Once you teach it what to do you’ll barely notice the difference between the two” the doctor promised bringing a grin from the Prince he was beginning to turn the corner since his injury on the Combine border. Over the course of the next three weeks Burton Davion learns how to use the artificial left arm as well as he ever used his natural limb. Once it was clear that Burton’s body was not rejecting the limb the Terran doctors fitted it with a synthetic skin which for all intensive purposes looked just like human skin with several courses of treatments the doctors matched the skin’s colour to Burton’s natural colour making the limb appear completely normal.
Garden of the Gods, New Greenland
New Olympica, Star League Protectorate
Free Worlds League
28th January 3105
The independent McKenna-class Battleship Subtlety and her attending JumpShips of the Subtlety Profitable Training College of Military Arts had spent the tail end of 3104 with the people of the District of Regulus and had on multiple occasions stated they would remain an independent force. Their arrival at New Olympica, the first planet to have an official Star League Defence Force presence, it was expected that the Subtlety would align itself and its trainers with the Star League Defence Force but Captain William Leroy-Dietrich made it very clear in his first meeting with the SLDF representatives that Subtlety would remain independent. Despite this the WarShip and its attached college was welcomed into the system and given full access to the SLDF training facilities including the SLDF’s own training WarShip the SLS Sheridan, a Bonaventure-class Corvette. The Star League officials had revealed to the Subtlety’s crew that the McKenna’s original name while under the flag of the first Star League Defence Force the SLS Billingsgate however even this revelation is not enough to sway the current crew of the Subtlety.
As well as training with the SLDF and seeing the facilities on offer at New Olympica the Subtlety’s crew had been offered the chance of shore leave at New Olympica’s many resorts. Over the years since the Star League’s take-over of the system they had promoted the rebuilding of the many resorts one such place was high in the mountains of the island of New Greenland known as the Garden of the Gods.
“It’s beautiful here” Commander America Park said glancing over the snow covered mountain range.
“Beautiful but cold” Captain William Leroy-Dietrich said pulling his fur lined jacket close to his body.
“It was your idea to come here” America teased closing on him she’d remained on the Subtlety because it offered her an opportunity she could not have in the Magistracy of Canopus. She’d stayed on the ship because of its commander. William Leroy-Dietrich was a puzzle to her although he was older than her by a decade but had the drive and desire of a young fighter pilot while commanding the Subtlety with what seemed like endless patience it was a series contradictions that confused her and attracted her.
“We were invited” William said simply blowing warm air into his hands then stuffing them in his jacket’s pockets.
“You were the one that was invited, perhaps they think you’ll have an accident and they can recruit the Subtlety with a new Captain.” She suggested half joking.
“There’s only one accident I want to have” William said kneeling down on the balcony beside her America Rebecca Park will you marry me?” he asked looking up from her having produced a beautiful studded ring.
“What?” She asked surprised by his question “where did this come from? When did you start feeling like this?” She asked in rapid succession.
“Will you marry me” he repeated himself “you know how I feel it’s been fun together but I know you miss home” he said she’d spoken of the Magistracy several times over the last few months often wondering if she’d given up her career for the bashed up WarShip. “I want you to make a new home on Subtlety, with me” he said she could see it in his eyes he was serious not just feeling sorry for her.
“You’re serious?” She asked still shocked William hadn’t moved from his kneeling position.
“I’m serious” he said “I bought this three months ago on Harmony, I’ve brought you to the Garden of the Gods one of the most beautiful places on New Olympica” he said looking out over the mountains “but Commander it is up to you.” He said more formally reminding her of what she could still have. The two of them had danced around this for months having fun together as a couple while also serving the Subtlety and the College. Now William Leroy-Dietrich wanted to take it a step further like he’d seen others of his crew do they’d talked together about renovating part of the cargo bay on board the Subtlety into new training rooms and accommodation William had even made note that such a renovation could include space for larger staterooms which she hadn’t thought much about before but now it made more sense.
“Yes” she said suddenly still looking down at him “yes I’ll marry you” she said agreeing to his proposal. The ring slipped onto her finger fitting perfectly, how he’d guessed her size she had no idea, but she didn’t care as the Captain rose to his feet and met her lips with his.
The two spent another two weeks together in the Garden of the Gods enjoying the winter sports on offer in the mountains while enjoying each others company. Their time on New Olympica was shared by dozens of others from their travelling college while in space the Subtlety, their aerospace fighters and DropShips trained against and with the Star League Defence Forces in system.
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Nice update, and geez did you add a lot of new worlds to the map this time. :D
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I am surprised that the WoB or the cappies had not try to take out this ship yet. great update looking forward to more.
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Here's hoping that the DCMS does not rebuild the disgraced Ninth SoL. It was built from the shattered remains of the dishonourable 2nd SoL, IIRC
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Great update, the Falcons are really scraping the bottom of the barrel now, and I bet the Horses are looking at them as a mark now.
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I was kinda thinking the same thing (but have been for quite a while now), but on the other hand the LC has additional fronts in the RD/LC/DC conflict zone, against the Wolves, and it's looking like something might be brewing on the FWL side of things. Combined, that may give the Falcons enough of a reprieve to catch their breath and reorganize to something more effective again.
On the other hand, the number of enemy units within striking distance of their worlds include at least 2 galaxies of Mountain Wolf Troops and roughly 9 regiments or RCTs of the LC, not to mention the soon to be there 5th Fed Suns Battlegroup and whatever the Archon can reposition to the Falcon front of the SLDF.
Edit: Considering the amount of resources being dedicated to this place, I'm starting to wonder if there's a massive hidden base/factory similar to what was on Outreach and that one world which had a manufacturing complex hidden under one of it's lakes (I forgot the name of it).
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I wonder if Burton's artificial arm will be like Allard's arm was. Coming with surprises, and ability to pilot a battlemech.
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Vition2 - those explorers got back to Terra, more from the Lyran border soon
cawest - Subtlety stayed away from the Capellan border, WoB are dead ;)
Sharpnel - they are dead
marauder648 - more from the Lyran border soon
Wrangler - we'll hear more on Burton in a bit
Bonus Time - Tukayyid planet profile I've not done one of these in a while and given that Touring the Stars is a canon product line here's my take on this system's path
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=53525.new#new (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=53525.new#new)
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Quick question: what do the Clans make of Bannister-Cameron?
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Quick question: what do the Clans make of Bannister-Cameron?
Short answer not much they have never fought him in combat and although they are aware of the the Wasp's time jump they know that Bannister wasn't in line to rule the original Star League so he matters not much to them.
The Goliath Scorpions before they were crushed were interested in keeping him and the Second Royal Armoured Cavalry Division as a living monument to the SLDF basically treating them like gods for the rest of their lives but Bannister refused.
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Capellan Offensive
District of Oriente, Free Worlds League
6th February 3105
After years being on the back foot to the Federated Suns and the District of Oriente the Capellan Confederation strike at Ryerson, Deschanes, Hudeiba, Mosiro and El Giza of the District of Oriente following a plan laid out by Isabelle Fisk a rising star in the Capellan’s shattered military. The Capellan Confederation use their one and only Thera-class Carrier, the CCSS Chancellor’s Pride, to overwhelm the District of Oriente’s Monolisk-class Destroyer New Delos in the El Giza system and the threat of orbital bombardment from the CCSS Chancellor’s Destiny in the Deschanes system to force the Oriente troops into capitulation.
Three days later the Magistracy of Canopus, secretly supported by Capellan special forces, attack and conquer Ganera, Kanata and Guangzho from the District of Oriente. With the majority of Oriente’s line regiments aimed at holding onto more important worlds and pressing against the Capellan’s Sarna Commonality the Seventh Orloff Grenadiers are left scattered over the region attempting to resist the invaders. Without the support they need the Regiment fall under the pressure put against them and its survivors are forced to retreat to be folded into other commands.
Chamber of the Clans, Clan Council
Andrey, Tuakkyid
Independent Clan Space
11th February 3105
Loremaster of the Clans Miguel Icaza glanced around the various Loremasters of the Clans. “The Ebon Guard unit are standing on Incukalns with their brothers in Clan Jade Falcon.” He said glancing among the others “production on and around Tukayyid is higher now than it has ever been and all Clan’s are benefitting from the production of the eight factories we have built together on this world.” He said “today Clan Wolf and Clan Hell’s Horses have won the two most recent WarShips produced at Tukayyid’s growing shipyard facility.” He said his words did not come close to representing what the Clans had done together on the world. Tukayyid was becoming a hub for production of Clan technology and weapons development with the recent activation of a Fire Mandrill vehicle factory on the planet every Clan now had a production facility on the planet while several Clans had more than one.
“My plan, my desire, is to create a hub where all of our Clans can grow and benefit safely from the reach of the Inner Sphere. Within the last month forces from the Ebon Guard have won Trials of Possession to produce the Halcyon-class Cruiser, the Swiftsure-class Cruiser and Drake-class Corvette. Each of these designs will be built at the shipyard facility over this world and each will be made available to all of your Clans. On the ground more of our designs will be built and made available to all our Clans together sharing our technology and our units will made the Clans more resilient to change and more effective against the Inner Sphere." He said addressing the Loremasters of each Clan they were his link to the Clans themselves and would carry the words from Tukayyid and their accomplishments to all corners of Clan society.
In orbit chassis and armour factories produced materials for all the Clan’s factories to use while weapons and equipment facilities were under construction. Beyond Tukayyid the systems of Lothan, Altenmarkt, Ramsau, Dehgolan and Udea were being tied more tightly to the Independent territory with additional Recharging stations, communication and mining facilities being constructed in each system the Loremaster of the Clans goal to make the world one of the most important in all of the Clan's claimed space.
Commanding-General’s Briefing, Capitol Guard’s Memorial
Archon’s Palace, Arcturus
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
12th February 3105
The Archon moved slowly around the Capitol Guard’s Memorial looking at the monuments to the fallen Captiol Guard’s Regiment which had fought and died defending Arcturus. Behind her several Royal Guards and the Royal Black Watch Regiment surrounded the area protecting the perimeter. Standing nearby Commanding-General Victor Focht of the SLDF allowed the Archon to walk slowly around the area before continuing the recent revelation that Archon Jessica Steiner was pregnant once more had made her take an interest in the past as well as the Clan’s future. “My nation is on the brink” she admitted glancing over at the Commanding-General “I need support from the SLDF.”
“The 789th Striker Regimental Brigade is already on Arc Royal supporting the defences there and your efforts to retake the Incukalns system, while the Second Royal Regimental Brigade remains on Bolan. The Royal Black Watch is at your service for the duration of your time as First Lord while the 208th Hussar Regimental Brigade will move from its base in the Star League Protectorate to support your nation against the Clans.” He said naming the four Regimental brigades that were in or would soon be stationed in the Lyran Commonwealth.
“Four out of Thirty-six Brigades” Jessica said displeased by the partly sum of units that would assist her nation.
“We have responsibilities to the entire Inner Sphere. SLDF units are based in each of the member states nations supporting its defence and other projects. We must also defend the Protectorate worlds from Clan Wolf who now have pushed through the Lyran Commonwealth to our borders.” Victor Focht said although he was a warrior first and claimed no noble title the son of Anastasius Focht stood his ground showing the new First Lord that the SLDF would not be backing down. “The Lyran Commonwealth will benefit from the assistance of the SAS Division and several WarShips that have been deployed along your border while three WarShips of the AFFS will also be joining you within the next three months.”
“While the Protectorate will also gain access to three WarShips from the Federated Suns” Jessica said reminding Victor Focht that the AFFS had agreed to assist them both with their Fifth Battle Group.
“We must slow the Wolf advance”
“I agree” she said moving around the monument to the lost men and women who had died defending this world. “What do you think will happen next?”
“They Jade Falcons will continue to raid the Lyran Commonwealth but perhaps in less numbers than previous we know that their Touman is hurting from holding Incukalns.”
“Does the SLDF have any theories to why they are spending so many resources on that world?”
“No but we do know they have fortified several positions there and that they have been directing excavation work on the southern mountains. Our research has shown no evidence of a previous SLDF facility on the world but our records are incomplete.” He admitted “the Jade Falcons have also been staging much more units off these worlds than we had previously thought.”
“And what of the Rasalhague Dominion and Clan Wolf’s what is their current threat level towards the Inner Sphere?”
“Clan Wolf is dangerous” he said simply “they have been hurt in the recent battles against the Lyran Commonwealth and Free Worlds League but our intelligence suggests that they have sacrificed some territory intentionally shortening their supply lines while edging towards the Star League Protectorate. We also believe that they are building a new destroy-type WarShip over Tamarind hence their defence of that system.” He said pausing allowing Jessica to digest the information “the Rasalhague Dominion appear to be pushing further units forward towards Vega with the Draconis Combine continuing to raid the Rasalhague Dominion and Lyran Commonwealth it has made the shared border tense.”
“Tense?” Jessica Steiner said “the Combine has raided the Lyran Commonwealth for centuries we do the same to them. Trust me the only reason the Drac is involved in the current border dispute is because they think the Lyran fist is distracted and aimed at the Jade Falcons.” She said “if they continue down their current path we will be forced to punch them in a sensitive spot.” She threatened Victor Focht remained passive about the prospect of a war between the two states the SLDF was not here to stop them fighting instead it was designed to stop a total war conflict like the Succession Wars or Clan Invasion which would dramatically change the dynamics in the Inner Sphere. “And what of the Nova Cats has the Federated Suns requested SLDF aid against them?” She asked referring the the recent Nova Cat raids against the Federated Suns Periphery.
“No” Focht said “in fact the Federated Suns has retaken Rentz and Brockton by themselves. It appears that the Federated Suns has honoured the Clans way of fighting with the Nova Cats engaging them in Trials of Possession. Due to this process of warfare the Nova Cats have limited their attacks against the Federated Suns.”
“If it were so easy I would do the same with the Jade Falcons and Wolves.” The First Lord admitted the Lyran Commonwealth had the most foreign borders in the entire Inner Sphere bordering with twelve different powers Jessica could ignore most of the Periphery borders as neither the Rim Collection nor the rebel Clan faction, the Stone Spirits, seemed interested in further conflict with her nation but other than the Star League border every other one needed to be watched and guarded the current strain on the LCAF was beginning to show. She hoped that with the SLDF in support the strain physical and financial on the LCAF would be lessened.
Aftermath Fifth Battle of Incukalns, Jade Falcon Command
Green Mountains, Incukalns
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
15th February 3105
As if to echo the Lyran Arhon’s words the Fifth Battle of Incukalns had not gone the Lyran way and now deep inside Incukalns Green Mountains Khan Ruel Chistu approached the state of the art holotable in the centre of the Jade Falcons newly constructed command bunker. “Our status?”
“The last Lyran and Mountain Wolf forces have retreated from the system. We completely cut off the First Wolf Legion Cluster, they fought to the end, and they will provide us with good salvage.” saKhan Jana Pryde reported the Lyran Commonwealth Mountain Wolf attack had entered the system far beyond normal arrival points burning into the system over the course of six days beating the Jade Falcon WarShips to the planet. It was a new tactic but one that hadn’t served them any better than before landing on the planet they faced three full Galaxies of the Jade Falcons who had been preparing for the Jade Falcons next assault.
“They were heading for The Vault enterance” Chistu noted “how did they discover our secret?”
“We are unsure” Jana Pryde admitted “according to all of our sources The Vault was lost to the history of the Inner Sphere. Perhaps they got lucky.” She suggested bringing an angry look from the senior Khan. “Regardless they were not ready for our fixed defences.” She said the Jade Falcons had always considered such things to be dishonourable but Incukalns was too important to the Falcons to take to chance.
When the Jade Falcons had invaded the planet they had captured a Lyran Commonwealth survey team along with their data under the Green Mountains the survey team had discovered an Star League-era supply depot that had laid hidden under a half collapsed mountain for centuries. With heavy lifting equipment brought in by the Falcons and a liberal use of explosives they had cleared away several thousand tons of rock that had covered the facility and inside they had found several dozen armoured vehicles and BattleMechs from the original Star League. Most of these units were damaged and this had served as a dumping ground for vehicles too damaged to be carried on by the SLDF during their efforts to either conquer the Rim Worlds Republic or their Liberation campaign of Terra. Below the facility they had found barracks that could hold nearly a Division worth of troops and an extensive planning facility and training rooms. The find was a gold mine and one that the Jade Falcons had sacrificed much to hold the world which was so close to the Lyran Commonwealth.
“The Defenders were a welcome addition” Chistu admitted recently the Hell’s Horses had taken much of the Jade Falcons territory but not all had been through Trials of Possession instead some of the planets had been traded away for two full stars of the Hell’s Horses new Outpost Defender DropShip. Over half of the Defenders were based on Incukalns providing them with a massive boost to air defences. “Now for the next part” he said determined.
“Should we?” Jana Pryde challenged “we are holding the Lyrans here but they have successfully retaken Melissa and Mogyorod” she said looking at him the two planets were the Jade Falcon worlds closest to the Periphery.
“Freebirth scum” Chistu said angrily Pryde knew that he was talking about the defenders that had been left on that world as well as the Lyrans. ”I do not care about Melissa or Mogyorod” Chistu said dismissively “neither supported our Clan. Neither of them is Terra. We must move forward we must pursue to Wolves and strike at the Star League.”
“The more worlds we lose the more likely one of the other Clans will try to absorb us.” Pryde said concerned that their Touman was taking a pounding too often to maintain control over their OZ.
“We do not need an extensive occupation zone. Any of the other Clans that think they do are wrong and none of them will dare try and absorb us after the next action we take.” Chistu said “I promise you Jana Pryde a prize will adorn that wall” he said looking past her. “I leave tonight. You are to remain here and maintain control over this world.”
“I wish you a great victory” Jana Pryde said deciding not to try and talk him out of the decision.
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Aftermath of Battle
Al Hillah, Rasalhague Dominion
24th February 3105
saKhan Sepp Heller walked across the battlefield surveying the damaged equipment that was left over the battle against the Rasalhague Dominion. Clan Coyote’s attack had caught the Rasalhague Dominion defenders by surprise but both Clans had fought within the limits of Zellbrigen at least that was what Heller had believed during the battle. Now after the battle, however, he was unsure Star Colonel Jolyon Koga, commander of his Galaxies Forty-second Assault Cluster, stood up ahead near a downed Rasalhague Dominion Beowulf IIC. Digging inside the BattleMech were several Coyote techs. “You called for me Star Colonel?” Heller asked his almost mechanical voice cutting through the haze that had followed the battle. Heller had been injured early in his warrior career during a circle of equals the only repair available to the doctors had been to replace his voice-box with a mechanical replacement.
“Aff saKhan” Koga said “we have discovered something wrong with this Beowulf” he said indicating to the ruined BattleMech behind him. The techs that were working on the Mech were making even more of a mess of the Mech so obviously salvage was not in their minds.
“What is it?” Heller asked Koga winced hearing the saKhan speak Heller had seen it for most of his career and ignored the Star Colonel’s reaction.
“During the battle we intercepted data that had been passed between the various Rasalhague Dominion units.” He explained “it did not appear to be purely communication transmissions.” Heller looked unimpressed but Koga continued, “We believe they were sharing targeting data.” Koga explained his saKhan now looked more shocked than anything. “The techs are attempting to salvage the technology from this Mech to confirm our belief.”
“C3 technology like that used in the Homeworlds?” Heller asked an angry edge raising in his voice.
“Aff ovKhan” Koga answered
“I want this technology salvaged immediately” Heller said reinforcing the decision that had already been made. As soon as it is recovered I want it put on a DropShip and sent out of this system if the Bears return to challenge for a second Trial of Possession they will not recover this technology.” He said Heller did not for a second believe it was a unique finding from the Rasalhague Dominion so if they returned and recaptured the salvage the Coyotes finding would disapper and be written off as faulty Coyote sensor readings.
First Battle of Arc Royal
Arc Royal, Arc Royal Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
25th February 3105
The attack on Arc Royal had come as a surprise to the Lyrans, mercenaries, SLDF and Mountain Wolves in the system. The arrival of the Falcon’s Nest, Emerald Talon and two Galaxies of Jade Falcon warriors in the system had caught everyone by surprise. In the opening volley from the two Jade Falcon WarShips the LCS Yggdrasil and LCS Donegal exploded as the Jade Falcon Battleships concentrated their fire. As DropShips and aerospace fighters scrambled to engage the two Jade Falcon vessels the LCS Victor, a Peter-class Scout ship, jumped out of the system carrying word of the attack on Arc Royal to the rest of the Lyran Commonwealth. Without WarShip support the defenders had no chance of stopping the Jade Falcons moving in system. Near the planet the Werewolf and the recently acquired Avalon Block II-class Cruiser Inflexable was all that stood between the Falcons and the planet.
Eight days after they had arrived in the system the Jade Falcons arrived in weapons range of the Mountain Wolves Khan Ruel Chistu sat in his Turkina OmniMech cockpit as the massive WarShips engaged each other in a slugging match. With the Mountain Wolves content to keep their distance and try to cripple their opponents with long range fire the decision was made to release the Jade Falcon ground forces before reinforcements arrived in the system.
Breathing deeply Ruel Chistu ignored the increased gravity as the DropShips burned rapidly towards the planet hitting the atmosphere even as Mountain Wolf, Star League and mercenary aerospace fighters and DropShips tried to engage them. Below his Turkina bay doors retracted and Ruel Chistu was given a countdown from the DropMaster as the second ticked to zero before the ninety-five ton OmniMech was released dropping towards Arc Royal’s surface.
“Falcons Wings strike as you land no mercy!” He called out as his OmniMech fell cutting in the Mech’s jump jets to slow his fall. Below Ruel Chistu could see the Mountain Wolves and Kell Hounds Mercenary Command were waiting for him, it was fine, and he was ready for them. As the Turkina landed on the ground Chistu righted the ninety-five ton Mech and saw his target. Immediately Ruel Chistu opened fire with his OmniMech’s particle cannons, long range missiles and autocannons. The weapons fire flew over the heads of most of the defenders instead flying straight into the Kell Family Home. Across the battle line Jade Falcon warriors followed suit all of them targeting the Kell Family’s home this strike was intentional it was designed to rock the defenders and strike a psychological blow.
As they fired on the Kell Family home the defenders were given a clean shot on the Falcon warriors Ruel Chistu’s Mech included but the Khan was ready to absorb the blows bending his Turkina’s knees dipping its shoulder his ninety-five ton Mech absorbed the enemy fire. Raising back up Chistu surveyed the field he saw Wolves, Hounds and other mercenary forces the Jade Falcon Watch had been correct the Star League forces were not here. “Target the Hounds let’s see how much fire the Wolves will allow them to take! Ignore Zellbrigen these Dezgra scum do not deserve it.” He called out the Jade Falcons had ten Clusters the defenders he knew did not even counting the unhired mercenary units on the planet the Falcons. Ruel Chistu targeted a Kell Hound Warhammer pounding the heavy Mech with missiles and autocannon fire spraying it with fire moments later he hit the Mech with his Turkina’s particle cannons. Both of the particle cannons burned through holes created by the autocannons along the heavy Mechs lower chest the warrior did not wait replying with its particle cannons and missiles cutting into the Turkina. An alarm activated screaming to Ruel that part of the Turkina’s armour had taken a pounding but it held.
Stepping forward Chistu triggered his weapons again blasting the Warhammer with his autocannons again before leaping his OmniMech into the air. As he flew Chistu watched a group of Jade Falcon Elementals swarm the Warhammer, conventional Clan combat tactics were being ignored. As he landed his Mech Chistu searched for another target finding a Mountain Pack Hunter BattleMech Chistu smiled as he watched his long range missiles slam into the light Mech tearing off the Mech’s left leg knocking it to the ground. Stepping forward Chistu aimed down at the Pack Hunter and blasted the downed Mech with both particle cannons tearing the light Mech to pieces. Glancing up he saw a Kraken XR BattleMech marching with intent through Kell Hound lines blasting a Phoenix Hawk before walking straight at the remains of the Kell family home. “Rendezvouz at point zero” he ordered the Falcons were taking heavy damage but the battle was turning for them the Kell Hounds, Mountain Wolves and others were trying to make their way through Falcon lines attempting to withdraw from the now ruined Kell Family Home which was now burning. Chistu saw another target a Mountain Wolf Warhawk striding against the flow of the retreating Mountain Wolves standing opposite the Jade Falcon Khan. The Mech looked damaged but operational, much like Chistu’s Mech, the Jade Falcon Khan reached for his radio controls opening to a wide communication channel. “I am Ruel Chistu, Khan of the Jade Falcons; identify yourself and why you think you can challenge me.”
“I am Star Commander Melina Wolf a MechWarrior of Clan Mountain Wolf, I defend this world, and this is my home.” The female MechWarrior said Ruel Chistu tried not to laugh the woman was not even a bloodnamed warrior.
“I will allow you the opportunity to leave this battle without the loss of honour” he offered her.
“I allow you to leave this system without loss of honour” she countered
“I cannot”
“And I cannot leave this battle” Melina said
“So be it this is a Circle of Equals may no other enter.”
“May no other enter” she said before they both uttered the word “Seyla” completing the ritual. Immedately the two Mechs began to circle each other the Mountain Wolf Warhawk was lighter than Chistu’s Turkina by ten tons, it lacked the jump jets of the Turkina but it was also faster and well armed. Particle cannon blasts from both Mechs criss-crossed the battlefield striking each of the Mechs as they continued to move both MechWarriors added their long range missile suites with Chistu adding his Mech’s autocannons to the mix blasting sections off of the lighter Mech. As Melina struck the Turkina with three of her four particle cannons Chistu launched his Mech into the air using his OmniMech’s jump jets in mid air Chistu fired both of the autocannons cutting into the Warhawk sandblasting armour off the Wolf OmniMech with the shotgun-styled autocannons. The shots blasted armour off the eighty-five ton Mech but did little else as the flying Turkina fell to the ground its stumbled forward Chistu unable to control the Mech properly. This gave the Wolf MechWarrior an opportunity targeting the back of the Turkina she fired two particle cannon blasts into the Turkina’s back forcing the Jade Falcon Mech into a further stumble its armour gone and its gyroscope damaged.
“Stavag” Chistu cursed twisting and turning his Mech’s torso blasting the Warhawk with his autocannons. More particle blasts tore into OmniMech’s arm shredding it reducing the autocannons mounted there into dead weight. Turning his Mech Chistu let loose with both long range missile launchers striking the Warhawk with a salvo of missiles almost all of which went completely wide of their mark. Chistu screamed in frustration looking at the Wolf Mech marching forward firing his own particle cannons at the same moment the Warhawk fired both Mechs were connected for a moment as the particle cannons burned through the OmniMech’s armour. One of the particle cannon beams cored the Turkina’s cockpit completely killing the Jade Falcon leader immediately.
The blow to the Falcon leadership was a minor one however the Jade Falcons had dropped directly on top of the Kell Family residence securing it and the surrounding Kell Hound base of operations. More than two Battalions of Hounds lay dead at the Jade Falcons feet with far less of the invaders joining them. Within hours of their initial success the Jade Falcons had successfully moved on and secured Old Connaught, the planetary capital, forcing the defenders to retreat to other cities including the Mountain Wolf Enclave, Wolf City. A further blow to Arc Royal’s defence is that Duchess Megan Kell the Duchess of Arc Royal, Colonel Christian Kell the commander of the Kell Hounds, saKhan Declan Kerensky and Loremaster Otto Sradac has all been killed in the Jade Falcon assault. All had been present inside the Kell Family Residence during the attack and none had been seen since the Kell Hound, Mountain Wolf had retreated.
The combined forces of the Lyrans, Mountain Wolves, mercenary forces and SLDF outnumber the Jade Falcons significantly but with the Jade Falcons holding onto Old Connaught the First Battle of Arc Royal is considered to be a victory for the Jade Falcons. In orbit the Werewolf and Inflexable retreat from planetary orbit surrendering it to the two Jade Falcon WarShips neither of the Not everything had gone the way of th Jade Falcons however of the ten clusters that Khan Ruel Chistu had led to the system three had been completely destroyed while another was folded into the other units to bring them upto strength. In orbit both WarShips were damaged but operational while both Mountain Wolf vessels were in the same condition leading to a stalemate.
Scout Mission
Crellacor, Independent System
Corward Periphery
28th February 3105
Bruno Scholle shuffled back slightly from the observation points heavily camouflaged ‘view port’ until he could sit up. The red and yellow mud and sand rectangle was his camp, home and sanctuary and would be for another week until he was picked up when the SLS Oste returned and a shuttle was sent for him and his team. Like the other Peter class Scouts the ship was often attached to Special Forces for operations its small size making it more than capable of slipping into a system not noticed by all but the most sophisticated sensor systems.
For the past eight months the Oste had been skirting the edges of the Clan OZ’s, scouting out, listening and watching and now on Crellacor they’d finally found something interesting. And something not Clan. Rather a makeshift Pirate base, complete with a crude and hard packed dirt landing strip and it was evidently some form of transfer point sat atop a small mesa in part of a dried out seabed. In the six days he’d been on the world after being dropped off with other members of his squad by shuttle after the Oste had detected faint radio transmissions from the surface of Crellacor VI’s primary moon. They’d ‘enjoyed’ a brisk 30-mile march thankful of their PA(L) armour, of which Bruno’s now sat deactivated at the back of his hide. Crellacor was a late stage Red Giant, and even at this distance the sun’s heat and radiation had killed off most of the life on the surface save for large and hardy cactus like plants and lichens that helped give the planet its thin and barely breathable atmosphere. Otherwise the moon was a dust ball of no significant note other than it was simply out of the way, in a system that no one cared about.
Two days ago a pair of dropships hand come in, a Gazelle that had seen better days perhaps some time in the late 2900’s and an even older spheroid design that he’d risked powering up his Tornado PA(L) suit to let its warbook ID it. Turned out it was a Manatee class ship, IFF saying she was the Queen Anne’s Revenge. Bruno had noted that one in his log, assuming that Queen Anne was some new Pirate leader in the region.
Through powerful magnoculars he was able to see cargo being moved off the Gazelle whilst a quartet of Mech’s started walking the perimeter. Amongst the Gazelle’s cargo was the shape and heat bloom of human’s, slaves and prisoners no doubt.
“Boss, you see this? There must be at least two hundred people down there.” A faint voice in Bruno’s ear said. It was his number 2, Jean Simmonds.
“Yeah I see them. But I also see two Bug’s, a Centurion and a Warhammer, no matter how old they are, there’s six of us and at least four hundred Pirates.”
“Four hundred and sixty three.” Another voice spoke up. That was the squads number 3, Eddie Schultz who had never quite lost his Jamaican accent despite being in the SAS for 10 years now.
“I stand corrected, so we mark this site, mark the ships and hopefully we can catch these bastards or the Clanners can. We knew this part of space would be lousy with Pirates and we’ve found a nest of them now.”
Bruno was about to suggest they start breaking up their individual hides when a small flashing light caught his eye. It was a seismic sensor and it was picking up something.
“Mark eyes on my location, do you see anything?”
“Negative boss, wait one.”
Bruno was crawling towards the view port of his hide, dug into the hard dirt of the moon, the entrance covered by camo-netting that perfectly mimicked the surrounding foliage and ground cover as well as being a near as perfect IR and EM blocker. To anyone who even got within a few meters it would just look like another bit of foliage and rock on this miserable, red skied lump of rock.
“Hush!”
The Hush alert was an indicator that something was nearby. Bruno killed his hides electrics with a twitch of his boot, it was resting on the small fuel cell’s battery. Outside it was night, or as night as the moon got, what with the huge sun’s glare reflecting off the gas giant the moon orbited as well as its dull red glare filling the sky but a shadow then fell over the entrance to the hide and he heard a heavy thud of a footfall, and then more.
Adjusting his position slightly the SAS Commando looked to his left and up, looking at a crimson and black painted leg of a eight meter tall proto-mech. The machine was humanoid in form despite its equine head and folded wings. They were miles away from the Pirate camp and he doubted the sensors on the old droppers would have picked them up. The Pirates simply didn’t seem to care about security, not on this desolate world.
The proto slowly dropped to one knee, its head turning as it looked at the distant base. It then emitted a short electronic blurt that somehow sounded organic as it ended with a snort of vented air from the head’s ‘nostrils’ and then the ground started to shake. Lean canine shapes moved past the hide, not brazenly painted but instead painted in tan and blonds, some with black striping, one a solid black.
Bruno knew them from briefings, they were Procyon Quad’s and he had to admit that they were MUCH more scary up close. They moved in a way that no machine simply should, it was too organic, too fluid. There didn’t even seem to be the soft hiss and hum of joints moving and he watched as the metal of their legs moved and shifted strangely although clearly artificial they had a grace that few Mechs could match Bruno guessed it had something to do with the Enhanced Imaging implants worn by the Clan warriors who piloted these craft.
Two Stars of Procyon’s moved past his hide, spreading out, keeping low and in what little cover there was, letting out metallic sounding yet also organic noises, soft grunts, low growls or hyena like ‘laughs’.
Bruno let out a breath he didn’t realise he’d been holding as the big Proto near him started moving off, its footfalls joined by others as its Star mates moved with it, two Minotaur’s and another pair of horse headed brutes, one with a missile pack strapped to each arm.
“Ho-le-shit…Boss, you okay?”
Jean said. She’d been watching the Clan machines moving past Bruno’s hide and then deploy into a broad arc facing the base.
“Jah..i’m okay..glad I wore the brown underwear today…get an eye on any unit markings?”
“Negative, they have no markings, just weird paint schemes, those Pyro’s look real.”
“Damn right…****** scary, not seen one up close.”
“One this is four.”
“Go ahead.”
“Movement at my position, some kind of quad battle armour three points strong, I got some good pics and am monitoring now”
“Stay safe Vlad.”
“Roger.”
The Pirates didn’t know what hit them until the Manatee’s sensors picked up a volley of LRM’s inbound and the crewman on watch pressed the alert switch, not that it was needed as the missiles raked across the bases quarters where many of the Pirates were staying. A simple collection of metal huts, some were just repurposed freight containers. Whatever they were made of it wasn’t enough as they exploded in bright blooms of fire as well as puffs of metallic and human fragments.
It was late and many of the Pirates had been drinking or spending time with some of the ladies on camp, or more unfortunately their prisoners and caught by surprise there was little reaction from them save the odd blurt of gunfire. With ten Procyon’s and a mixed Command unit coming from one side the fifteen Buraq’s that had sprinted round the rear of the encampment moved in, metallic hooves kicking up puffs of orange dust as they surged forward, machine guns tracking.
The patrolling Pirate Mechs were the initial target and the Clan Protomech’s and the Stinger went down under a flurry of shots from the Procyon’s before the pilot could even get the Mech’s laser swung round to face them. The next Mech, an archaic looking Locust was ripped to shreds by sustained gunfire before its pilot even got moving. The Centurion went down fighting, with the Procyon’s running through the base camp firing at anything or just swiping at it with their clawed paws the Centurion moved to engage and met the Command Star. Although it out massed the Proto’s the Centurion’s protection was roughly equal to one of the smaller Machines and its pilot had no clue about how Proto’s fought or moved.
The heavy CHUG-CHUG-CHUG of the Mech’s autocannon rolled over the mesa as the Protomech’s moved to engage. Even at the distance from the camp the whine of thrusters could be heard as the two Svartalfa’s unfolded their wings, darting between the buildings and tents at high speed with a grace that was impressive and scary to watch. The Centurion didn’t last long, the Pilot seemed to panic when he hit a Minotaur with his cannon and it just got up and resumed firing. The Mech turned to flee but its back was ripped open by laser and missile fire, its ammunition igniting with a thunderclap as two tonnes of missiles and projectiles went up, the sound and shock hitting Bruno’s hide a second after the flash.
Even as the Warhammer tried to flee the Clanner’s were swarming over the dropships. One Svartalfa landed on the Gazelle’s nose, its lasers pumping shot after shot into the glass on the bridge before cutting through, the distant rattle of machine gun fire joining the muted electronic buzz of the lasers.
The Buraq’s were sprinting around the grounded Manatee, some idiot on the dropship had yet to haul its cargo ramps in and the battlesuits thundered inside, machine guns blazing.
“Jesus…efficient bastards ain’t they..”
“Roger that, all points are you recording this?”
“Yes boss.”
In the camp the Clan Protomech’s and elementals were moving with a purpose, hunting down the last of the pirates, not even accepting the surrender of those who threw aside their weapons, the final pockets of resistance being crushed, quite literally in some cases by rapid blurts of machine gun fire of pulses of laser light that cut the Pirates into unrecognizable chunks.
The only thing they spared was the prisoners, the Minotaur’s ripping open the cages and cells they were held in whilst in the distance the Procyon’s ran down the Warhammer, darting around its legs, APGR’s ripping through the ancient Mech’s armour, laming it with shots to its legs whilst the pilot tried to defend himself against his darting opponents.
One Procyon took a PPC blast and staggered, bleeding smoke, emitting an animalistic yowl as it withdrew, but it was the only success the Warhammer had. One volley of fire bit deep into its back and hit something vital as sparks and black smoke belched from the damaged Mech before it fell, firing wildly as it did, the muffled thump of 70’s of Mech slamming onto its chest barely carrying over to the SAS’s hides.
With the camp seemingly pacified the SAS watched as the final pirates were rounded up, their observation equipment was the best available and they could see everything as the pirates were herded into the crippled Gazelle, there could not have been more than a few dozen of them, many were walking wounded, some were even carrying their comrades with them.
“They’re letting them go?”
“Nah..see that venting on the port wing?”
“No, but I can see something on the starboard.”
Before anyone else could speak there was a bright antic flash and a dull WHUMP as the dropships fuel was ignited. With the fuel cells left open the fuel in the wings was starting to boil at the sudden pressure difference and venting out of the fueling ports in the wings. The liquid hydrogen was turning into a rapidly expanding cloud and all it would take was a spark. Or in this case a laser strike.
The fireball lit up the surrounding area and the blast ripped the Gazelle to pieces, multi-ton chunks of dropship being flung into the cold night. The concussion smashed into the Manatee and the old dropship tumbled as one of its landing legs gave way, the ancient ship flopping onto its side, looking like a beached whale next to the blazing crater that marked the funeral pyre of the Gazelle.
With the landing area wrecked the ProtoMech’s and equine Elemental’s moved into the camp, flattening what remained whilst freeing any prisoners that were alive.
“Watch it boss, they’re coming your way.”
“I see it, going cold.”
The procession made its way across the dunes, escorted by the Proto’s and flanking elementals and Bruno shrunk back into his hide, making sure the electronics were off and the thermal cover was in place. The column of rescued captives trudged past and Bruno could hear them speaking, they were clearly Clanners just from the way they spoke.
“Five miles and we will be at our rendezvous location. A dropship will come and take us, leaving this pyre as a warning to all who would attack us.”
The voice that blurted out from a towering Svartalfa was strong, full of confidence, and yet it sounded slightly wrong. A Mech’s external speakers did nothing to disguise a voice, but the proto spoke with a distinct metallic cadence and tone to its voice.
There was cheers from the former captives and they kept marching past the Procyon’s coming up the rear, the one that had taken the PPC blast limping along, leaning against another for support, its front right leg a mangled ruin. The SAS observers waited until a distant rumble told them a dropship had taken off before coming out of their hides, working their way down to the ruined Pirate camp.
It was silent save for the crack and pop of burning wood and the odd pop and bang from the blazing Manatee as its ammo finally started cooking off. Near the fallen Stinger the SAS team found an active locator beacon sat at the base of a small pile of severed heads with the symbol of the Hells Horses Clan proudly placed over the macabre display.
“Want me to turn that beacon off boss?”
“Nah..they wanted to send a message.”
“Damn..i’d say they sent it loud and clear.”
“Amen…spread out and look for any information, report back in 2 hours, the Oste will be in system soon and I don’t fancy missing our pick up.”
Hope you enjoy the last part (in the periphery) is from marauder648 my thanks for the addition
I'm going to work on the unit list over the next few days and hopefully do the Jade Falcons and either Horses or Coyotes so you have an idea of what's going on with them.
Note Arc Royal is not captured it's contested.
Hope you enjoyed it
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Awesome update! Arc Royal Contested :'( Great story Marauder648!
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Interrrrrrrrresting! The falcons pulled a bait and switch. By making everyone focus on that world that the Falcons seemed to be obcessing over they put enough forces together to go after the command of the entire region at Ark Royal which also has some very important factories as well.
And the Coyoties finding a C3i could have implications, they could accuse the Dominion of using 'tainted' equipment, especially as its a Wobbie designed bit of kit, not home grown. The thing is has it spread to the whole Dominion or are the Kungsarmee forces using it whilst Trueborns shun it?
And I'm glad you liked my lil snipped Shadow_Wraith :) I'm honoured to be able to contribute to this awesome AU.
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Yes very interesting. And I cannot quite say I called it, but I totally did, but that SLDF facility and contesting Arc-Royal could end up being what was needed to reinvigorate the Falcons. Though the training facility will probably take a few years to really get up and running.
For some reason I do not see the C3 technology being all that concerning as it has been used by IS forces for quite a while. Sure it will likely lead to some politicking but I am not sure much will come from that.
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Queen Anne's Revenge, old Blackbeards ship, nice.
I think those FS battleships better pull their finger out and head for Arc Royal.
The battle there might end up a real bloodbath for the Jade Falcons if the reinforcements arrive quickly. O0
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I wanted a good pirates ship name and the name of Blackbeard's ship was perfect :) And I think the main issue will be the Coyotes putting 2 and 2 together and coming out with 9. c3 = the system the Society used (who's name I can't remember) = tainted = BAD! *queue punch ups along the border*
Also the Falcon's attack is clearly a decapitation strike, if the Mountain Wolves loose Ark Royal then they loose most of their facilities and populace, also its a heavy loss for the Kell Hounds. But you're right it could turn into a real bloodbath for both sides, this has the potential to turn into another Coventry scale battle. I'm guessing that the Falcons put pretty much everything they have left into this attack as well.
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2 galaxies out of 3 that they had available, and they have already lost 4 clusters out of 10. 40% nasty.
This is going to hurt.
Good time to launch another attack at Incukalns whilst they are busy. >:D
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Too bad the Mjonirs got caught with their pants down, i would have figured they would have the upper hand on those Nightlord-Class ships. The fight for Arc-Royal is a pretty interesting fight, with Melina downing the Khan, i thought they be a slight diminishing of the Falcon's fighting. I know Clan's easily changed hands if a leader goes down, but i remember bad reactions (like retreating) when high level one is downed.
Exciting update, Dragon Cat!
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I just thought of something, and now I fully expect another 2 galaxies, this time of Hell's Horses troops, to land on Arc-Royal. Splitting the manufacturing capabilities of Arc-Royal would definitely be worth a detente.
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So some more updated maps, I intend to keep updating stuff as DC releases stuff so I'm just gonna provide the link to the Google docs I'm keeping them in.
https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B8rxH42gchMhakxpUG1OOE5lVEk
And just to clarify, the one noted as 3105 beginning is merely a recreation of DragonCat's 3104 map. As he adds his monthly entries, then I'll add a new map with the progress. These will only include the changes DC includes specifically in his updates - I'm not privy to any extra information than you are. :P
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May I ask what the TO&E of that CHH Proto / BA Trinary was?
I count:
15x Buraq BA
2x Minotuar
13x Procyon
2x Svartalfa
This sounds like a Reinforced Command unit... With ten Procyon’s and a mixed Command unit coming from one side the fifteen Buraq’s that had sprinted
TT
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Seems to me the Falcons may have seriously screwed up with this attack. They likely don't know about the FS agreement to send naval support to the Lyrans, and both their big guns there are already damaged. If the Lyrans, SLDF and the AFFS can react fast enough they can bag both of them and destroy the remaining Falcons on planet and then the Budgies will be in real trouble.
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Seems to me the Falcons may have seriously screwed up with this attack. They likely don't know about the FS agreement to send naval support to the Lyrans, and both their big guns there are already damaged. If the Lyrans, SLDF and the AFFS can react fast enough they can bag both of them and destroy the remaining Falcons on planet and then the Budgies will be in real trouble.
Have to agree, I doubt they would know due to probably little in the way of resources spent on the Watch and the Clan's bias against military intel.
This really could be a bridge, or should I say, planet too far.
May I ask what the TO&E of that CHH Proto / BA Trinary wa
I honestly didn't think about the ToE, I'd been reading TRO Prototypes and chose the Proto's basically from that. We know that the Horses are working on their Mongol doctrine although its yet to be fully unleashed on anyone yet. This could well be part of that, testing with large numbers of Proto's and BA working together as a unit. Also it was all the new home built stuff, Svartalfa's, pyro quads, Minotaur PII's and a fast wing of Buraq's which are probably very new (the 3145 mech's are being slowly introduced early due to a lack of Stone's ******).
This could well be a test, both of the Buraq's and the new home built Proto's rather than a set up formation.
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Wrangler - it was one Mjonir and one Fox Merchant and they were caught unawares - they are committed and won't be running for a bit
Vition2 - those maps are awesome
Arvanna - the Star League Conference didn't end until December. Victor then had to travel home the ships assigned already had duties. So I'd make their arrival on the Lyran borders not until late 3105.
Attached is the Unit list with added Clans the only one missing is the Fire Mandrills/Rim Collection needs more work than I can do this time in the morning.
Next part is the Periphery then probably mercs. I'm probably going to add a destroyed list like the WarShips.
Note: You'll notice the Wolves and Falcons especially have quite a few Combined Arms units due to their recent fighting. Hopefully I'll sort them out in the future and make them look a little more Clan.
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So I'd make their arrival on the Lyran borders not until late 3104.
That Flux-Capacitor upgrade to the KF-drive is expensive, but worth it 8)
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DC, it's already 3105. So they arrive late 3105 not 3104. O0
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Yeah doc too right was tired when I posted
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Just saw the maps, amazing work! Sudeten does look like a tempting target there all on its lonesome.
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If Sudeten falls, likely so too do the Falcons, they have had too little time to properly set up Inkucalns as a replacement. Another year or so and they may be able to make good of it but they certainly do not seem like they are going to wait to get that chance.
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Dragon Cat a question for ya, how do the Horses, Wolves and Coyotes treat their spherioid populace? Is it the Jade Falcon's brick in the wall/You are number six (I am not a number, I am a human being!) or somewhere in between how the Bear's and Cats treat theirs?
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Well, if we go by close to canon (which may be a false step here), the Falcons almost completely ignore their lower castes, as long as they don't really get in the way - it is one of the reasons why their merchant caste was either second or third in effectiveness among all the clans in canon.
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And now that I have actually looked over the numbers there is quite a distinction between the top, middle and bottom tiers of clans at this point in time - at least by size.
Top Tier by Size
RD - 671 stars
HH - 642 stars
Wolf - 581 stars
Mid Tier by Size
RA - 267+195 star equivalents
NC - 449 stars
SF - 389 stars
Bottom Tier by Size
JF - 282 stars
C - 274 stars
MW - 148 stars
And gee things really do not look all that great for the Falcons, that is unless they have managed to capture a bunch of Mountain Wolf cadets - and those cadets are still clan enough to be absorbed into the Falcon touman.
Also for the future, DC, you have Hell's Horses listed twice, the second is actually the Sea Foxes, and you forgot to name the Nova Cat's tab.
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Blimey, awesome work there :) And yeah the Falcons are gonna need at least a decade or two to recover, if they survive. Because I bet the Horses are looking at their territory now.
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And now that I have actually looked over the numbers there is quite a distinction between the top, middle and bottom tiers of clans at this point in time - at least by size.
Top Tier by Size
RD - 671 stars
HH - 642 stars
Wolf - 581 stars
Mid Tier by Size
RA - 267+195 star equivalents
NC - 449 stars
SF - 389 stars
Bottom Tier by Size
JF - 282 stars
C - 274 stars
MW - 148 stars
And gee things really do not look all that great for the Falcons, that is unless they have managed to capture a bunch of Mountain Wolf cadets - and those cadets are still clan enough to be absorbed into the Falcon touman.
Also for the future, DC, you have Hell's Horses listed twice, the second is actually the Sea Foxes, and you forgot to name the Nova Cat's tab.
Cracking work, no Fire Mandrels?
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Cracking work, no Fire Mandrels?
You have not actually looked at the spread sheet yet have yah? :P
He has not quite gotten to the Rim Collection/Fire Mandrills yet.
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You have not actually looked at the spread sheet yet have yah? :P
He has not quite gotten to the Rim Collection/Fire Mandrills yet.
Ah, no moved house on Friday and won't have the internet back till Saturday, thanks for letting me know 😊.
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Dragon Cat a question for ya, how do the Horses, Wolves and Coyotes treat their spherioid populace? Is it the Jade Falcon's brick in the wall/You are number six (I am not a number, I am a human being!) or somewhere in between how the Bear's and Cats treat theirs?
How's this to answer that question? Intelligence Report Clan Trade/Civilian Relationships
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=53681.new#new (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=53681.new#new)
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Thank you for that Dragon Cat its great :) Also re Incukalns, they seem to have found something like Camelot Command or a Castle Brian, but to smash their tourman for a buried facility and some battered equipment simply does not seem worth it unless they plan on developing the site into something bigger.
The prize just does not seem worth it, sure if there was a Prometheus database there then sure, unless its part of the bait/switch for the attack on Ark Royal as well.
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Finally time for some fiction. My thanks to James Tanaga for the Rim Collection section.
Border fighting
Great Gorge, Crucis March
Federated Suns Periphery
3rd March 3105
Fighting continues along the Federated Suns/Nova Cat border as Clan Nova Cat spread into the Federated Sun’s Great Gorge system and two independent periphery systems. However the Nova Cat successes come at a price as elements of the First Tikonov Cossacks RCT move on the Nova Cat held worlds of Sodetalke and Maram. In all cases of the fighting between the Nova Cats and Federated Suns are fought within the realm of Trials of Possession.
Main Hall, Jade Falcon command
Incukalns, Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
7th March 3105
There was a continuous click on the floor as a pair of boots marched into the main hall of the Jade Falcon command room on Incukalns. Khan of the Jade Falcons Jana Pryde looked up and saw Khan Teresia Cooper, the large Elemental commander of the Hell’s Horses Clan, approach.
“Welcome to Incukalns Khan Teresia Cooper”
“Thank you and congratulations Khan Jana Pryde” the older woman replied looking at the young Jade Falcon leader “you are clearly a worthy successor to Ruel Chistu.” She said the Jade Falcon Khan hid her reaction quickly but Teresia knew that she didn’t think much of the Hell’s Horses Khan’s endorsement. “As required of us we have surrendered Atocongo to your forces and we have seized Hamilton from the Sea Foxes.”
“The Foxes were not expecting your Horde Quineg?”
“Neg they were not” Teresia said proudly “you are tightening your grip on Arc Royal Quiaff?”
“Slowly” Jana Pryde said “the Mountain Wolves attempted to reinforce their positions but they were not ready for the Emerald Talon two clusters of Wolves died at her guns.” She said proudly.
“A dishonourable death and I hear that your other WarShip bombarded the surface of Arc Royal Quiaff?” Teresia Cooper asked testing.
“Aff, the Falcon’s Nest detected a grouping of the 789th Striker Brigade on the planet it was an opportunity we could not ignore.” Jana Pryde said defensively.
“A dishonourable tactic” Teresia Cooper commented not a challenge but another testing comment.
“For Dezgra Star League forces and for Dezgra Mountain Wolves” Jana Pryde said angrily tired of the Hell’s Horses leader’s words challenging her to disagree.
“They got what they deserved” Teresia Cooper said deciding not to take her thoughts further.
“Aff they did” Jana Pryde agreed “and now to your visit?”
“Aff we are preparing to expand our holdings” Teresia Cooper said “many of my Clan find Sudeten a tempting target” she said naming the Falcon’s capitol system. “I am sure that you have detected the build up of our forces Quiaff?” Jana Pryde nodded “I am here to assure you that we have no hostile intent towards the Falcon holdings instead we will be striking at Summit, Grundwald and Kandersteg.”
“Pushing into the Commonwealth?”
“Which should keep the Lyran reinforcements busy” Teresia Cooper said “our Clans can work together to strengthen each other and the Clan position in the Inner Sphere” she promised the other Khan.
“And in turn Jade Falcon trader’s can pass on the benefits to you Clan quiaff?” Jana Pryde asked realizing what the Hell’s Horses leader wanted. Following the Horses assault on Hamilton Clan Sea Fox would likely push the Horses to unreasonable levels for trade in the future if the Falcons acted as an intermediary then the Horses could continue to gain supplies such as Harjel.
“Indeed” Teresia Cooper confirmed “if neither of us attacks each other then our enemies cannot stand against us.”
“I will be interested to see how your Horde Clusters perform in your attacks.” Jana Pryde admitted the Horde formations were gradually taking over the Hell’s Horses Clan. They were built around speed and firepower intent on overwhelming an enemy target quickly.
Carlyle Family Residence, family room
Castle Hill, Glengarry
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
18th March 3105
The guards stepped to one side allowing the warrior to step into the main family room Baroness von Glengarry Dana Carlyle looked up and her face immediately brightened. “Marc…” she whispered taking several steps towards him.
“I am glad to see you are well Baroness Carlyle” he said addressing her formally.
“You don’t need to be so formal Marc”
“I wish to apologize to you Baroness for your time with Clan Wolf….” He said opening his mouth to continue but instead Dana stepped in and kissed him for the first time since he’d smuggled her back to the Lyran Commonwealth. “I’m sorry for what you had to go through” he said breaking off their embrace.
“Shut up” she said pulling him with her into a side room inside were two cots side by side inside were two baby children “Vlad and Marielle” she said introducing them “our children. We have a lot to discuss.” She said within two weeks Marc and Dana were married on Glengarry before Marc returned to the SLDF to continue his training and induction into the Star League Defence Force.
Training Range
Sandhurst Military Academy, England
Terra, Star League Protectorate
24th March 3105
“You are clear to move when ready” the range controller said Prince Burton Davion breathed deeply flexing his artificial left arm before reaching for the controls of the Black Watch OmniMech. He wasn’t a massive fan of the Inner Sphere OmniMech but it was the same tonnage as his own Templar so he was comfortable enough with the design as a first run in a Mech with his arm since the artificial replacement had been fitted.
Stepping the Black Watch forward Burton was amazed at the response he felt through his left arm he’d expected the sensation to feel different but it felt completely natural moving the Mech forward from its bay. Turning the Black Watch to the right with his foot Burton turned the BattleMech out of the bay he walked it into the sunlight. “Work with me baby” he whispered accelerating the Mech to a full walk at thirty-five kilometres per hour turning it to the left and to the right turning the Black Knight with his feet. That was the easy part he thought glancing at his left arm turning the Mech was easy it used his feet and his own sense of balance now for the hard part twisting his artificial left arm he twisted the Mech’s torso to the left and then to the right. “Nice” he thought turning the Mech to the right in a wide circle he twisted his Mech’s torso style torso to the right and then to the left again testing it. “Knight One to RCR release target one” he said contacting the Range Control Room.
Moments later a Savannah hover craft moved into range twisting the Mech’s torso he tracked the small hovercraft with his left arm mounted light gauss rifle refining the target he fired a shot with the weapon obliterating the light hovercraft. Burton smiled with satisfaction seeing the small remote controlled craft erupt into fire. “Push it up a bit” he said into the radio now two stationary box targets raised in the distance as well as another Savannah. Burton immediately pulled the trigger on the left joystick sending another gauss shot towards the new Savannah his shot went wide allowing the hovercraft to close on his position the simulated laser shots striking his Mech’s thick hide “com’on!” The prince said frustrated looking at the arm he knew it wasn’t his arm’s fault he was just out of practice. “Screw you” he said opening up on the hovercraft with the Mech’s Medium Range Missile launcher the forty missiles blanketed the area blasting the side of the hovercraft open. He then squared his Black Watch’s shoulders and opened fire on the stationary targets with the rotary autocannon spraying fire over the stationary targets knocking them both down. “RCR up the tempo!” Burton called out wanting a proper challenge suddenly four QuadMechs appeared on his sensors they were all the same design his warbook tagging them as Revenants. “Now we’re talking” he said two of the Mechs were staying back while the other two were charging in running at over ninety kilometres per hour within moments they were in weapons range each firing green extended range medium lasers. Three of the lasers struck his Mech’s armour burning down the side of the assault BattleMech. Burton glanced at the damage schematic and noticed armour was missing from the Mech’s lower torso and left leg. “RCR confirm we’ve gone live fire?” He asked firing the rotary autocannon into one of the drones ripping its front left leg completely off in a single sustained barrage.
“You did say up the tempo sir” RCR replied “this is the first tier live fire. They are designed to aim for your Mech’s legs.” He said which meant to Burton that the weapons were not designed to kill him just disable his Mech.
“That’s comforting” Burton replied as the second pair of QuadMechs were moving on his position joining the remaining Mech from the first wave. Burton twisted his Black Watch’s torso launching another salvo of medium range missiles this time at the second Mech from the first wave he then fired the light gauss rifle at ne of the other Mechs causing heavy damage to the QuadMech. Accelerating the Black Watch forward as more medium lasers and pulse lasers struck the lower torso of the OmniMech. Stepping close to one of the remaining Revenants he opened fire with the rotary autocannon tearing open the light Mech with a continuous stream of led suddenly he heard the metal slamming against metal sound of the autocannon jamming but he also saw the Revenant fall to the ground. The remaining two Mechs closed on the Black Watch but both were damaged he opened up with his gauss rifle again ripping off the legs of another Revenant finishing it off with the medium pulse lasers nestled in the centre torso of his OmniMech. The last remaining Revenant charged in firing its lasers and machine guns as it charged in Burton’s Mech shook heavily as it was riddled with laser and machine gun fire. “I don’t think so” Burton whispered blasting the Mech with his medium range missile launcher and pulse lasers cutting down the damaged QuadMech.
“Range Control Room to Knight One, we can load next scenario if you wish, after this round it becomes progressively more difficult.”
“Understood” Burton said glancing at his Mech’s status the Mech’s armour was mostly intact the most damage done was around the legs and lower torso but the autocannon was jammed and he’d used ammo on all three of his main weapons. “I think I’ll call it quits for now” he said “out of curiosity how many more rounds are there?”
“Three more rounds after this one” the RCR operator reported “a single warrior can manage the first two live fire rounds but the highest two rounds are recommended for a full lance.”
“Now you’re just tempting me RCR” Burton said turning his Mech back towards the Mechbay “maybe in the future I’ll take up your challenge but for now I’m due a dinner date with my wife and if I miss it I’ll be under a lot more fire than your ranges can ever put out.” He said the RCR operators replied with a round of laughter ‘just like the boys at home’ the Prince thought.
High Orbit
El Dorado, Crucis March
Federated Suns
28th March 3105
High above the world of El Dorado near the world’s moon Boulder a crippled Davion II-class Destroyer flashed into existence. The majority of the vessel’s armour and weapons were gone its engines completely dark and atmosphere streamed from the majority its decks slowly the WarShip began to spin out of control as two DropShip, one of the DropShips was a Lung Wang-class Assault DropShip while the other was a Fortress-class vessel, both undocked as six aerospace fighters launched from the crippled WarShip. The vessels and aerospace fighters immediately turned towards the planet below on their sides was a strange emblem with a Sunburst covered in two crossed dao blades. As the force entered the planet’s atmosphere the WarShip continued to spin out of control caught in Boulder’s gravitational pull it fell into the moon’s atmosphere exploding in the nitrogen-carbon dioxide atmosphere.
Diving down over the planet’s capital the two DropShips dropped BattleMechs on-top of the militia base near the capital of Oro forcing the defenders out. With the Lung Wang and aerospace fighter flying in circles around the facility threatening to bombard the base below them they quickly taking the part-timer defenders by surprise forcing them from the base with barely a shot fired before landing and occupying the base in the name of Warrior House Sortek for the Confederated Suns under Chancellor’s Edict 14. A confused message to New Avalon from El Dorado states the capital has been seized by the Capellan Confederation with the Seventh New Avalon Guards RCT on the continent of Sante Fe and out of position to assist.
RCS Providence (Fox Block III-class Repair Ship)
Orbit of All Dawn, Rim Collection
Periphery
30th March 3105
Natasha Faraday leaned against the wall of the observatory room as she looked at the screens which looked over the Rim Collection’s newest WarShip, the RCS Firetender. The Isis-class Scout Carrier, a Lyran product, would soon be joining the Rim Collection Naval Touman after nearly a year of being completely torn apart and then rebuilt; all just to ensure the Lyrans hadn’t left or built any unfortunate “surprises” into the design.
She shook her head absent-minded at that. To assuage the Lyrans, the Rim Collection officially was using it as an exercise. Still it had its uses, or so Matthew Davion had informed her and Redburn earlier. Something about a possible omni-capable warship, the Federated Suns-born Sovereign Regent had informed them with the aerospace fighter bays possibly being able to be removed and replaced with BattleMech or Battle Armour transport bays if required, though it would take a lot of work. If true, it meant the Rim Collection would have a nasty surprise for its enemies should they come calling.
Something she knew would happen, sooner or later. The Rim Collection had begun to recover from the short, but brutal civil war; its military was still being rebuilt. Eleven clusters had been destroyed in the conflict and while her Clan hadn’t lost any completely, most of their units were still under-strength. Worse, those at full strength were deployed to the borders, intent on keeping a visible guard against the Spirits and Lyrans meaning that should their guard fall the interior of the Rim Collection, and her entire Clan, would be at risk.
To combat that, Redburn had made the ad hoc units she had led to Gillfillan’s Gold full active units within the Rim Collection Armed Forces. The very same units were now being deployed publicly. All part to show the Rim Collection’s martial strength and understate the true cost the civil war had to its armed forces.
Since the civil war, the Rim Collection intelligence community had worked overtime in an attempt to do just that. The forty-thousand civilian casualties trickled down to a more manageable ten thousand. The eleven clusters destroyed had morphed into a still hurting six. Those “missing” Guards and Lancer clusters were merely re-designated militia clusters was the official reason.
And she finally had confirmation they had achieved their mission, courtesy of a Lyran intelligence report given to the Collection via the FedSuns. The Lyran Intelligence Corps report stated they did not know what to make of the Collection’s martial strength, citing numerous discrepancies, except that either her own nation’s intelligence services were either effectively hiding its combat losses (true) or that the Collection’s martial strength were larger then what was reported (false) and possibly even both. The fact the report also stated the Corps’ own agents in the Collection was next to nil due to continued Rim Collection Security Services operations meant the Lyrans had to rely on the Federated Suns and Star League Defence Force for information, a fact the young Khan knew the Lyrans disliked.
Yet the same intelligence report had given her pause. The Lyrans had found out about two deployments Natasha Faraday wished to keep quiet. The first she reluctantly allowed herself to mentally shrug at, for she knew it was only a matter of time before the Lyrans had learnt the Collection was continuing to honor its obligations to Erdvynn Province to help police it against pirate forces. Still, she hadn’t expected the Lyrans to catch on as quickly as they did. It was the second deployment that made her pause.
From the SLDF, the Lyrans had found out the Rim Collection, specifically her clan, had a limited force on Tukayyid to safeguard a new factory her clan had been allowed to set up on the capital world of the Inner Sphere Clans, as well as conduct Trials against the Mandrill’s sibling Clans. It made for what she expected to become a very touchy situation. Yet the report did state the Lyrans themselves were unlikely to do anything about it, so while the report gave her pause, it also allowed her to rest at ease.
“Penny for your thoughts, Khan,” President Damien Redburn’s voice broke Natasha from her thoughts.
“More like a Kerensky,” she replied deadpanned as she continued to look at the large screens covering the new ship.
“Your clan finally came to its senses concerning the Firetender, I take it,” he asked from behind her.
“Aff,” she reluctantly acknowledged as she glared at the ship on the screens.
“I just had a very enlightening conversation with Archon Jessica Steiner via HPG,” he informed her a moment later. “She said to pass on the importance of a peaceful, quiet border between our two nations to you. I take it there won’t be any problems with your Clan?”
“Neg,” she answered back. “The Crusader faction is pragmatic about our current situation to let that particular border be quiet, at least for now.” She thought the rebuilding Rim Collection had enough to worry about from raiders and from the Stone Spirits to worry about attacking the Lyrans weakened border.
“Good,” he acknowledged. Another moment passed as both watched the screens for a moment she turned to properly face him for the first time.
“I noticed Rim Motors has begun producing a rough analog of our Kirghiz-G OmniMech, specifically the Prime configuration,” she half accused, causing him to nod.
“It’s a very rough analog, yes. We have designed it to operate in the planned Militia CCT’s. We’ve taken to calling them Kirghiz-M’s,” he answered back. “And they aren’t OmniMechs. They are pure BattleMechs, through and through. Still advanced but compared to your Kirghiz-G, the M is much more primitive.”
She nodded at his answer. “What of the Snow Fox OmniMechs? I have heard some rambling you have allowed Kindraa Stewart to start providing stealth armor to Rim Motors.”
“I have,” he admitted to her. “Leonard Stewart gave me the idea and asked for permission, which I agreed. It seems that it’s a perfect platform for their stealth armor. Rim Motors have taken to re-designating the design the Shadow Fox should testing go well we should be able to deploy it by the end of the year.”
“Personally I agree as well. Yet your decision on having my Clan provide Kindraa Stewart with 300XL engines to produce the Ghost BattleMech on Timbuktu is worrisome, at least to conservative elements within,” she warned him.
“And what if I ask your Clan to provide technical assistance to House Stewart to jump-start their project to produce a new battle armor for the Collection? One that uses stealth armor,” Damien half-asked.
“You will be met with resistance, though so long as the battle armor is kept to only Rim Collection federal and SpecOp forces, you know my Clan will reluctantly allow it,” she surmised openly they couldn’t afford to alienate the Mandrills from the Collection.
“And if House Stewart agrees to provide your Clan with a percentage of their production,” he asked, smiling.
“Much less resistance,” was her predatory answer knowing it would help rebuild her Clan quickly.
“Good,” he answered back, putting his arms behind his back as he looked down on Natasha. “I trust your Clan will see the value of House Stewart receiving the necessary technical assistance in the coming days, quiaff,” he asked, using the Clan word to highlight the importance of this decision. Having a homegrown battle armour design would help their nation even if it took a couple of years to perfect it.
“Aff,” she acknowledged, looking into Redburn’s eyes.
“Then I’ll take my leave, Khan,” he remarked, waving his hand to gesture at the RCS Firetender, before turning to leave, leaving the young Fire Mandrill Khan once more to her thoughts as she turned to stare once more on the Isis-class scout carrier on the screens in front of them.
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[drool] O0 ;D }:) Wow, nice update and thanks you to Dragon Cat and James Tanaga. So you have introduced a new small unit to your AU!!!! :D I am so looking forward to what happens there!!! Simply Wow!!!
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Excellent update, great stuff from Dragon Cat and James Tanaga :)
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Meh... needs more tech, but otherwise VERY good read.
2x O0
TT
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Great update, and interesting read.
The Falcons and Horses working together is not too big of a surprise, but the Horses going after the Foxes is a bit surprising, I wonder how that's going to fall out for them.
Also, new map - the link is now in my signature. Also DC caught a couple major mistakes that are corrected on the most recent one, but not on the earlier ones yet.
Edit: I have to add, I am quite curious what is going on with the El Dorado thing. It looks like it might be some kind of masquerading force or possibly the beginning of some nefariousness by the CapCon as retaliation for how much success the FS had against them.
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DC, willing to reveal just which ships the Fed Sun's are loaning their cousins in the Commonwealth?
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for the JF used a BB for fire support on a SLDF unit. now the SLDF can do the same to the JF.
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DC, willing to reveal just which ships the Fed Sun's are loaning their cousins in the Commonwealth?
Well, I do not want to speak for DC, but Fifth Battle Group appears to have been divided into two task forces. The first consisting of the Hanse Davion II (First Prince II), Jennifer Davion (Avalon II), and the Fire Fang (Whirlwind II). And the second the Reinhart Steiner (First Prince II), Jackson Davion (Avalon II), and Zibler (Davion III). Simply based on the names I suspect the second task force would have been sent to the Lyrans and the first to the SLDF.
now the SLDF can do the same to the JF.
Only if Fed Suns troops are willing to pull the trigger, the SLDF currently does not have a warship of their own... yet.
On the topic of warships though, I do have a question for DC, what were the two warships the Wolves and Horses won from the Tukayyid shipyards? (I suggest calling them the Unity shipyards, if only because that is how I think of them - even though the clans are anything but unified)
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Well, I do not want to speak for DC, but Fifth Battle Group appears to have been divided into two task forces. The first consisting of the Hanse Davion II (First Prince II), Jennifer Davion (Avalon II), and the Fire Fang (Whirlwind II). And the second the Reinhart Steiner (First Prince II), Jackson Davion (Avalon II), and Zibler (Davion III). Simply based on the names I suspect the second task force would have been sent to the Lyrans and the first to the SLDF.
Pitty: was looking forward to trying to paint a little Nightlord on the nose of one of my Mercury's 8)
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Edit: I have to add, I am quite curious what is going on with the El Dorado thing. It looks like it might be some kind of masquerading force or possibly the beginning of some nefariousness by the CapCon as retaliation for how much success the FS had against them.
Nope... look for something called Empires Aflame... might give you an idea where that one comes from.
Well, I do not want to speak for DC, but Fifth Battle Group appears to have been divided into two task forces. The first consisting of the Hanse Davion II (First Prince II), Jennifer Davion (Avalon II), and the Fire Fang (Whirlwind II). And the second the Reinhart Steiner (First Prince II), Jackson Davion (Avalon II), and Zibler (Davion III). Simply based on the names I suspect the second task force would have been sent to the Lyrans and the first to the SLDF.
Only if Fed Suns troops are willing to pull the trigger, the SLDF currently does not have a warship of their own... yet.
On the topic of warships though, I do have a question for DC, what were the two warships the Wolves and Horses won from the Tukayyid shipyards? (I suggest calling them the Unity shipyards, if only because that is how I think of them - even though the clans are anything but unified)
Correct on the ships.
Both York-class Swingfire to the Wolves Centaur to the Hell's Horses
Pitty: was looking forward to trying to paint a little Nightlord on the nose of one of my Mercury's 8)
Nah one Mercury (Black Prince) is back in the shipyard under repair and refit. The other one Sword and Sun is watching the Snow Raven/Nova Cat border. Both of which have a Nightlord in their fleet...
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Warrior House Sortek on El Dorado, now that really throws a cat among the pigeons, nice. O0
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Nah one Mercury (Black Prince) is back in the shipyard under repair and refit. The other one Sword and Sun is watching the Snow Raven/Nova Cat border. Both of which have a Nightlord in their fleet...
While there are some low-level boarder skirmishes, I can't see the Cats or the Ravens escalating things to the point where the heavy metal clashes :-\
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Well, the Cats are flexing their muscles a bit, if the FS decides to have none of it anymore that could happen. Also, if the crusader-ish saKhan ends up Khan, I could see things start to escalate a bit further.
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Where's the clans Naval TO&E look like now?
Wanting to compare listings...
Thanks,
TT
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DC has a spreadsheet for them, on reply 159, link below. The short answer to comparing things is the Fed Suns is getting close to being leaps and bounds above just about everybody else - with Kurita being a possible exception (though the Yamato will have a lot of trouble against a Mercury in a straight up fight), but there are 2 new clan warships (both DDs) getting close to coming off their slips (Wolves' Tamarind, and RD's Alshain, "close" may be a relative term, heh). Other powers are likely working on other things, but we have not heard much about what they are working on.
Knew I'd forgotten something... attached to this post
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Fantastic update!
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Hey JA Baker you just want to see your baby's demolishing some clan BB's and gloating over it. ;D O0
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Hey JA Baker you just want to see your baby's demolishing some clan BB's and gloating over it. ;D O0
Isn't that what every proud father wants? >:D
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Well let's hope you get your wish ;D
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Occupied Militia Base, Oro
El Dorado, New Avalon Operational Area
Crucis March, Federated Suns
7th April 3105
Warrior House Leader Imarra Sortek looked out at the regiments of BattleMechs and armoured vehicles arrayed around the militia base every single one of them without fail had the insignia of the defunct Federated Suns and wore the flag of New Avalon and a number “7” she had no idea what unit these people were claiming to be but there was no unit from the occupied New Avalon that had ever had these markings that she knew of. A single Armoured Personnel Carrier escorted by two medium BattleMechs approached the base one of the Mechs each carrying a white flag of truce. “Allow them to approach” Imarra ordered brushing her short dark hair off of her face and back behind her ear considering the numbers surrounding the fire base they couldn’t fight them with a force of arms she moved down to the ground level exiting the base.
The BattleMechs and vehicle stopped short of the base and a single figure followed by two strange extra-large Infiltrator II suits exited and approached. “That’s close enough” Imarra Sortek called “I am Warrior House Leader Imarra Sortek, what right do you have to surround our base?”
“I am Marshal Duncan Goddard, what right do you have to occupy a base of the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns?” He said she looked him over he was at least ten years older than her forty-two years and he was obviously not a hand-to-hand fighter and given his build she guessed he was a tanker.
“The Federated Suns…?” Imarra repeated “the Federated Suns has been gone for eighty years despite what Kathil believes.”
“Kathil?” Goddard said quietly “lady, I don’t know what universe you think you’re in but New Avalon determines the fate of the Federated Suns.”
“New Avalon is occupied by the Combine!” Imarra said angrily Goddard visibly rocked on his feet at the words looking back at her. “My unit retreated here trying to reclaim the lost lands of the Sortek family and to release Elder Bishop Sortek from captivity. We will not surrender this fire base if anyone approaches this base we will fire on them. I want a JumpShip to take us back to Sian.”
“Sian!” Goddard exclaimed a hint of anger in his voice. He took a single step closer “listen very carefully my people will not fire on this base or anyone here I don't plan on ruining a perfectly good base because someone got a little lost so as long as you do not fire on us we won't shoot at you.” He said making his point clear “as for a JumpShip that will be up to First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion.”
“Steiner-Davion?” Imarra Sortek whispered hearing a combination of the Succession State leaders that she’d never heard before. Even in the Hegemony she didn't think that combination existed how this man though that two families on opposite sides of the Inner Sphere could be merged was beyond her. He would have been better trying to convince her that it was a Kurita-Davion or a Calderon-Davion on the throne.
“Yes, the First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion leader of the Federated Suns” he said sounding completely convinced as he climbed back into the APC the two Battle Armour troopers quickly joined him. Imarra stood and watched as the APC and two BattleMechs retreated from the fire base the other units not moving working through what he had said how could any of it be true? How could the Federated Suns still exist? What of House Liao-Davion? Where the hell had she led her Warrior House?
Border Raids
Sarna Commonality, Capellan Confederation
11th April 3105
Following the miss communication that the Capellan Confederation had seized part of El Dorado four AFFS units launch unauthorized counter-attacks against the Capellan Confederation’s Sarna Commonality striking at three Capellan worlds. These attacks are unsupported by the AFFS High Command and by the end of the month the Capellans have pushed the AFFS units off two of their worlds but fighting continues on the world of Truth. The Capellan also launch attacks against the Federated Suns held worlds of Wei, Shipka, Footfall, Bell and Axton.
While the AFFS and Capellan March Command structures try to rally their troops and hold their territory a bright note for the Federated Suns is announced with the New Syrtis WarShip Shipyards being officially brought back online after years languishing inactive. The operators of the New Syrtis Shipyard plan to build Caliburn-class Battle-cruisers for the Federated Suns at the facility while there is also talk of building a new variant of the New Syrtis-class Fleet Carrier at the rebuild facility.
Thirty-second Star League Games
Solaris VII, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
20th April 3105
For a second year on the bounce Clan Wolf dominate at the Thirty-second Star League Games on Solaris VII. Succeeding Star Colonel Ivan Ward as champion of the Star League Games Star Commander Laurel Carns, of the Fifth Wolf Regulars Cluster, piloting a Timber Wolf OmniMech is victorious beating all others on the game world. As with the previous year riots break out in protest of the Clan Wolf domination of the games but this year it is better controlled by the SLDF forces assigned to the planet and civilian injuries are far less. For several days after the end of the games protests continue calling for an end to the Star League portion of the Solaris Gaming Circuit due to the unfair entry criteria which allows front-line warriors to enter and dominate the contest.
Deep Raid
Yeguas, Jade Falcon OZ
27th April 3105
The world of Yeguas had served since its colonization as a food bank for all of the worlds around it. It’s only product to the Inner Sphere was food, until the arrival of Clan Jade Falcon, now Yeguas was also a supply depot. For the last three months Captain Morgan Christifori of the Star League Defence Force had helped move food shipments by day helping Clan Jade Falcon and by night he had sneaked around behind the Clans back watching the Falcon’s movements looking for weaknesses.
Because he had done nothing overt against the Falcons Christifori had been able to move around barely noticed by the Clan. In the darkness of night a single man could move unnoticed in the shadows most nights all he did was take discreet pictures but tonight was a special night as he moved around the supply depots he had dropped several ultra-violet markers setting the targets. As he stepped out into the light he stopped raising his hands to his mouth concealed in the palm of his hand was a small transmitter “Charlie-Mike, the order is Chimera” he said as a Piranha BattleMech began its patrol.
“Control, confirm command”
“Charlie-Mike-Three-One-Two-Zero-Chimera” he said as the Piranha turned onto his street Morgan discarded the transmitter into the nearby grass revealing a lit cigarette in his mouth as he calmly walked down the street past the Jade Falcon BattleMech. Morgan knew that there was a good possibility that the Falcons would find his transmitter but also that it would act as another homing beacon for the raiding forces.
For months the Star League and Lyran Intelligence Agencies had been marking targets for assault. Lyran, SLDF and mercenary units had been concealed in systems waiting for the order. Morgan and his company had been dragooned by the SLIC because of a lack in manpower for this observation mission. Once on Yeguas they’d been ordered to learn as much as they could about the defences of the world. If it was ready for a raid then Morgan would call it in then his unit would go to ground waiting for the dust to clear before being extracted with the raiding force if no order came then the raiding force, in this case the mercenary command Miller’s Mailed Fist, would sit out in the asteroid belt until the Lyran JumpShip arrived outside the system and collected them.
Now that the command was in Morgan Christifori made his way back to the food plantations winding his way through the small huts that housed the workers to the one his team had used as a safe house. Stepping inside he immediately had a gauss sub-machine gun thrust in his face by his number two Calum Fraser. “No worries Cal it’s me” he said looking at the other man.
“Good to see you” he said Calum, unlike Morgan, was dressed in full SLDF night tactical gear “you are last to return.” He said showing the other four members of their team getting their equipment together.
“Did control dispatch the Mailed Fist?”
“Their battalion is on the way along with a squadron of aeros from the Eighty-seventh.” He reported naming the elite Special Operations Battalion Morgan’s unit had been officially seconded to.
“Nice of them to send at least something that actually belongs to their unit on this mission.” Morgan said chuckling as he crossed the room looking over his gear “what about team two?” He asked about the other team that were on Yeguas.
“Wrapped up their mission an hour ago they’re in ready position three and are radio silent.” Calum reported Morgan nodded he’d known that already but wanted to make sure nothing had changed. Morgan turned to the other five troopers.
“Here we go people we’re moving out tonight to ready position one” he said he knew that they knew this already but was making absolutely sure. “Miller’s Mailed Fist will hit this rock in sixteen hours assuming they got off the asteroid without a problem. Over the last three months we’ve seen not a single aerospace unit in this system and the ground defences are minimal. Yeguas has not been a problem for the Falcons, that is until today, if we’ve screwed up or the Mailed Fist screw up we’re to high tail it to secondary pick up positions. We’ll wait there until our supplies run out if still no pick up well I’ve heard Yeguas summers are fantastic.” He said bringing a could of light laughs from the other troopers each of them knew that if this mission went south and the Mailed Fist were unable to evacuate them then their only real option would be to wait for one of the Lyrans or SLDF’s Peter-class Scout vessels to arrive to pick them up. Each of them knew there would be little to no chance of them securing transport otherwise and they’d be forced to enjoy living and working on farms for a while the SLIC had made it quite clear to them that they were not to try and incite a rebellion on the world because the Falcons could turn Jaguar and flatten the planet; something the SLDF was not willing to risk.
Fortunately the Miller’s Mailed Fist did not screw up. The mercenaries had dropped according to Morgan’s “Chimera” command splitting into three reinforced units, each with roughly a reinforced company; they had struck all three of the main Jade Falcon supply bases on the continent at once while aerospace fighters from the mercenaries and from the SLDF’s Eighty-seventh Special Operations Battalion had bombed two other bases on another continent. The damage was not crippling, it wasn’t meant to be, instead they had done enough damage to the supplies to disrupt operations and caused enough damage to make the Jade Falcons think about reinforcing things on the planet which might make things easier elsewhere in the future. Before they pulled out Mailed Fist APCs collected both of Morgan’s teams returning them to the mercenary’s DropShips which quickly took off heading back towards the SLIC Asteroid base from there they would refuel and collect the support staff from the base before heading towards the system’s outer reaches where if all went to plan they would meet up with a JumpShip that would take them back to the Lyran Commonwealth.
Nearly two months later the unit and the SLDF troopers arrived back over Arcturus in the Lyran Commonwealth. For Morgan Christifori he personally hoped that after this operation he could get back to “proper soldiering” as his father would have called it. Unfortunately he had a feeling that the SLDF’s current strategy wasn’t calling for much battle-line assignments instead intelligence operations and raids were a more regular occurrence. For the Miller’s Mailed Fist this one operation had netted them enough C-Bills to clear their debts and would allow them to continue bringing their equipment up to a modern standard.
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Nice update! Especially on El Dorado! O0
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It's a FedCom base and do you have a better description of the Bunker placement...
http://bg.battletech.com/download/HexPack%20Promotion%201.pdf?884bc4 (http://bg.battletech.com/download/HexPack%20Promotion%201.pdf?884bc4)
TT
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Don't you just hate it when you miss jump and have no idea you did
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It's a FedCom base and do you have a better description of the Bunker placement...
http://bg.battletech.com/download/HexPack%20Promotion%201.pdf?884bc4 (http://bg.battletech.com/download/HexPack%20Promotion%201.pdf?884bc4)
TT
I hadn't really thought about it but something along these lines....
Nothing is front-line standard since no-one ever expected El Dorado to be attacked most of the guard posts wouldn't have been manned when Warrior House Sortek arrived.
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That has got to be the mother, father, brother, sister, aunt, uncle, cousin and other assorted family members of miss-jumps :D
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Warrior House Sortek? Wat....this isn't Empires Aflame?!?! :D
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Seems like we've got an AU misjump :) Great update as always! :)
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Seems like we've got an AU misjump :) Great update as always! :)
That be hilarious response to the ATwT Universe of what happened in the Prime. ;D
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As if the Fist would screw up ^-^ ::) ;D
Oh and are they under contract to the SLDF or Lyrans now?
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Oh, ok.. so more Infantry defense bunkers than mech-scaled ones.
Cool...
Thanks,
TT
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Don't you just hate it when you miss jump and have no idea you did
I think they were more concerned with the failing orbit of their Davion II than where they'd jumped to
That has got to be the mother, father, brother, sister, aunt, uncle, cousin and other assorted family members of miss-jumps :D
Warrior House Sortek? Wat....this isn't Empires Aflame?!?! :D
Well... O:-)
As if the Fist would screw up ^-^ ::) ;D
Oh and are they under contract to the SLDF or Lyrans now?
Lyran contract
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Very nice, and yet another flare up between the FedSuns and the CapCon - not that it's unexpected, heh, wonder if Imarra Sortek is gonna end up acting as a go-between.
Also, I noticed that there are still quite a few DCMS units deployed to the border of the Raven Alliance, including 2 of the Genyosha regiments, I kinda wonder what's been going on over there - especially since both planets the Genyosha are on also have Raven units on them (Valentina and Pondicherry, iirc).
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Now I could say I cocked up with the unit assignments... but I didn't. There was supposed to be a scene explaining why there was both on that planet and I might have accidentally removed it from the timeline thinking I didn't need it then forgot about the units. Just maybe... :-[
Border conflicts
Disputed Region
Periphery
8th May 3105
As the Magistracy of Canopus celebrate the birth of Magestix Ilsa Centrella’s third child Duke Albert Centrella the Magistracy of Canopus launches a major push into the disputed region between it and the Marian Hegemony. Many of the worlds recently colonized as humanity spread across the periphery become battle grounds between the two periphery states.
The Magistracy of Canopus successfully claim Sundown, Cronkee, Ealen IV and Green hills while the Marians continue to hold Ruthersburg, Vixen and Monarch. Fighting continues between the two states in a half a dozen other systems while pirate attacks continue to be at their highest in the area for more than thirty years. The result of these increased pirate attacks sees the independent periphery systems of Oquiu and Caramaine abandoned due to the damage caused by pirates. The Magistracy take both dead worlds as protectorates vowing to have both worlds recolonized by the end of the decade.
Clan Council
Council Chambers, City of Andrey
Tukayyid, Independent Clan Territory
14th May 3105
“The Rasalhague Dominion has the strongest of our Toumans which makes them believe that they can flaunt our ways” Khan Carl Heller said angrily looking around the chambers at his fellow Khans. “Clan Coyote holds incontrovertible proof that Clan Ghost Bear has been experimenting with the use of command and coordination software.”
“That has been used against Inner Sphere targets only” Ragnar Magnesson Khan of the Gost Bears answered.
“You do not even deny it?” Carl Heller said surprised at Magnesson’s admission.
“Neg, I do not deny the truth, Clan Ghost Bear has developed technology to combat the Inner Sphere.”
“C3 technology?” Khan Teresia Cooper asked curious at Magnesson’s open admission.
“Aff the Inner Sphere has used it against us for years why should we not explore this technology?”
“Asks a freebirth” Khan Evangeline Clarke said quietly “he forgets to tell us that the Manei Domini used C3 technology…” She said naming the destructive faction.
“Or that the Society still does” Carl Heller stated looking around the other Khans “the Society which took our Homeworlds uses a type of C3 known as the Nova CEWS.” He said looking around them “it is what gives them an advantage when fighting against the true Clans of Kerensky.”
“How do you know this for fact Carl Heller?” Canin Rosse of the Nova Cats asked
“Because a former Coyote Scientist helped develop the technology and has helped the Society to develop other weapons. My Clan was unable to eliminate him before we retreated to the Inner Sphere.” He admitted lowering his head.
“The Coyotes assisted the Society” Jana Pryde hissed angrily
“Neg, elements of my Clan’s Scientific Caste did. They have been abjured from our Clan.” He said looking around the room the shame of the Coyote association clear to the others.
“You will provide each of our Clans with data on this system Quiaff?”Amina Kerensky demanded she knew of the Coyotes history in the Homeworlds but the defection of Coyote scientists had been kept a secret.
“Aff we shall” Heller said
“Clan Coyote’s point on the C3 systems should stand” Teresia Cooper said nodding at the Coyote leader her Clan had lost nearly two Galaxies when the Clans abandoned the homeworlds.
“I agree development of C3 technology should not be pursued.” Canin Rosse agreed Evangeline Clarke did not look convince but also nodded her agreement.
“We all agree the technology should be abandoned it has no place within our Clans” Khan Jana Pryde said looking at Khan Ragnar Magnesson “Khan Magnesson it is your right to declare a Trial of Refusal on our decision?”
“Neg, we will not contest this decision, I will order the technology and all units using it to be placed in a Brian Cache and sealed away.” Magnesson said nodding to the other Clans showing that the Bears despite their strength were willing to abide by decision made by all of the Clans.
Occupied Militia Base, Oro
El Dorado, New Avalon Operational Area
Crucis March, Federated Suns
18th May 3105
The majority of Warrior House Sortek, their tech staff and DropShip crew were in one of the main briefing rooms of the main Administration block while those who were on duty were connected by commlink and could add their comments and thoughts if they wished. For the last three hours they had gone in circles. “They could be lying to us Kathil is determined to separate our house or it could be a plot off Robinson to forward the goals of the traitor.” Captain Richard Winnie, one of the oldest members of the command said.
“How can you say that? We have unrestricted access to their communications grid. Unless these people have subverted the communications of an entire world everything points to the Federated Suns existing as a nation with New Syrtis, Robinson and New Avalon all still under Davion…”
“Steiner-Davion” another interrupted him “according to their history Hanse Davion married Melissa Steiner in the past.” She said
“Not at all an example of cradle-snatching if I’ve ever heard of one” Vincent Sortek Imarra’s younger brother said gaining an annoyed look from the Warrior House Leader. “What?” He asked feigning innocence “she was eighteen and good old Hanse was forty-five why he didn’t marry that battle-axe Katrina I don’t understand.” Imarra noted that her brother had accepted the history provided to them and was ready to move on others didn’t look convinced.
“And the Succession Lords allowed the rebirth of the Terran Hegemony? Can anyone really say that makes sense the rebirth of a nation that has sapped worlds from each of the states around them?” Leftenant Chin Li Sunn the unit’s political officer said, he was one of the largest voices in the command that their place was in the Confederation regardless of who was running it. “One of the most recent discussions was about the transfer of Elgin, Hsien and Zurich to the control and protection of the Star League Defence Force.” He said glancing around “not through combat but through trade! This nation is led by a man who willingly gives up control over his planets releasing them to another nation.”
“It’s not quite the same thing” Vincent Sortek complained “the Federated Suns is part of the Star League they will still have access to the planets and freedom of travel there. This simply allows them to redeploy defences to other areas of the nation.”
“If the Star League was so good then they wouldn’t need to redeploy their forces” Li Sunn pointed out.
“Well unfortunately Kerensky wasn’t assassinated so his descendants are causing problems for the people here and the Capellan Confederation fell out with the Star League. So maybe they are redeploying to smack some of you bastards around the face.” Vincent said raising to his face Li Sunn immediately was on his feet as well his hand on the hilt of his ceremonial boa sword his eyes on Imarra looking for support away from the oppressive political policies of the Confederated Suns her brother’s anti-Sian/Liao views were released. She knew that this divide extended throughout her unit with the majority dedicated to House Sortek and reclaiming their homeland on New Avalon while others thought the Confederated Suns should concentrate on holding what worlds it still had, which were less and less of the Federated Suns core territories as time went by.
“Where we are and where we are going are less important than keeping true to each other” Imarra said rising to her feet “if this Warrior House turns on itself then we each betray our oaths to each other and ourselves.” She said looking at each of them “for myself I wish to see home after that my choice about my future will be made.” She said she was torn between her loyalty to the Chancellor Prince and her desire to see a New Avalon untouched by war.
Border trials
Draconis Combine/Raven Alliance fighting
20th May 3105
After several months of Trials contesting Pondicherry and Valentina with the Raven Alliance the Draconis Combine and Snow Ravens agree for Pondicherry to remain a Combine holding while Valentina becomes a world of the Raven Alliance. During the time the two worlds had been contested by the two nations the fighting had been fought according to the Clan Dueling laws of Zellbrigen and the fighting had barely made the news and the Snow Ravens had allowed any Combine citizen who wished to leave Valentina to do so. This solution that the two nations had found had stopped the prospect of total war but allowed their forces to flex their muscles and train with live weapons against their neighbours.
Tour Krupp Armament Works
Stutgart, Germany
Terra, Star League Protectorate
26th May 3105
Walking around the the Krupp Armament Works Prince Burton Davion looked at the line of Nyx Light BattleMechs that were in the final stages of checks before being deployed to the SLDF. The trip was a nice break from the physical therapy he was still undergoing with his replaced arm the smell of the BattleMech factory of metal and oil reminding him of being with a regiment on the field of battle. The tour guide spoke about the Nyx BattleMechs and Krupp’s evolving production line as they walked around Burton tried to show he was fully interested in what was being said while going through the hand excersises with his myomer replacement limb the doctors assured him that in time he wouldn’t notice the difference between the limb and his flesh and blood arm but he wasn’t convinced. As he flexed the wrist fully he heard and felt a a series gunshots as his guide and both Davion Guardsmen that were wish him were cut down by an assailant who was moving down from one of the Nyx BattleMechs “We don’t need you here Succession Lord scum! Free Terra!” The man shouted raising the gun towards Burton the Prince reflexisvely raised his left arm and charged the man as gun shots rang out they slammed into the Myomer arm Burton felt the shots hit his arm and his brain registed he was being shot at but he didn’t feel the pain associated with real shots. As he reached the attacker Burton swung out with his flesh and blood right arm striking the man over the face with a punch the man recoiled then tried to come back at him but Burton was already in motion punching out with his left arm hooking the man in the face he lost grip of the gun and it went flying to the side but was not done yet kicking out catching Burton in the ribs.
“I’m no threat to you” Burton said raising his hands to defend himself trying to defuse the situation.
“Your presence here is not wanted Terra is not a place for you. Blake’s will demand I defend our holy ground!” The man shouted he sounded like he was reading from a religious text or something.
“I don’t care about your holy ground!” Burton shouted back the anger building in him.
“Exactly you cannot appreciate this world for what it is, the birthplace of humanity, the crowning glory of all we have accomplished.” He said drawing a knife at Burton slashing it at him cutting through Burton’s blue business suit. The Prince was completely unarmed not expecting to get into a fight today. He knew both of the Guardsmen had weapons but by the time he got their weapons he’d be dead instead he lashed out with his right arm punching the man again then swung out with his left arm attempting to knock the attacker’s knife arm away. As he did he grabbed at the man’s arm but failed to grip it instead he raked his fingers over the man’s arm forcing it and the knife away. The man recoiled suddenly raising his arm Burton could see several cuts running down his arm. “What the hell are you?!” He screamed looking at the Prince. Burton was just as shocked as he looked at the arm from each of the fingers claws had extended from the finger tips.
“Your nightmare” Burton said trying to act like he knew about the claws before now “stand down or else” he said the man did not stop instead coming in with another kick. Deflecting the blow with his left arm he raked the claws over the man’s leg ripping open the coverall “stand down!” He demanded but the man kept coming. Burton and his attacker continued to circle for several moments exchanging blows as Krupp Corporate Security rushed to the site. “Stand the hell down!” Burton shouted again as the Security Guards raised their weapons the attacker however ripped oven the front of his coveralls revealing a suicide vest underneath Burton and the others dived out of the way behind equipment and tool boxes as suddenly the would be assassin exploded turning the man into a short lived fireball.
Several hours later Burton was sitting in the lounge of his villa in the south of France with Sterling McKenna-Davion in his arms. He didn’t know if it was conscious or not but she was on his right side away from the myomer limb. “Apparently it is a feature of the model they fitted me with it’s designed to be used as a climbing tool.”
“And they did not tell you?” Sterling asked angrily
“It was supposed to be disabled electronically but the doctors said that each arm adapted differently to its host body.” He said raising the arm in front of him with the palm facing him a moment later the claws extended he felt them extend and he felt Sterling jump a little bit seeing the claws for the first time. “Apparently the more I use them the more I will be able to control it” he said retracting the claws his myomer skin covering the slits automatically before activating them again. “I’ve had this arm for weeks but now it feels more foreign than ever. I don’t know if I can control it.”
“It is still yours, your mind controls it, and you would never do anything to hurt us.” Sterling said reaching out with her own right arm as her arm approached his the claws retracted allowing her fingers to slip between his Burton not realizing he’d retracted the claws. “You are in control of them” she promised her husband “you’d better be” she said turning his arm bringing his hand down onto her belly showing she trusted him. “We are going to need all four hands for three” she said. Burton looked at his hand, Sterling’s belly and then at his wife’s face. “It seems like we had an accident on Terra” she said blushing slightly as her lips curled into a smile.
“But your service time?” He said thinking about her recent decision to join the Federated Suns Navy on a more full time basis she’d been looking forward to returning to the military life something she’d been missing since leaving the Snow Ravens.
“I guess it will just have to wait a little longer” she said leaning into him “I am alright with this” she whispered to him. “But I think our time on Terra has come to an end.” She said looking at his replacement arm “the people back home can help you as much as the people here.” Burton nodded he didn’t trust the people on Terra after the revelation of the claws but he was glad to hear his wife refer to the Federated Suns as home.
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Lyran contract
Danke.
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Now I could say I cocked up with the unit assignments... but I didn't. There was supposed to be a scene explaining why there was both on that planet and I might have accidentally removed it from the timeline thinking I didn't need it then forgot about the units. Just maybe... :-[
I won't mention the other couple that I found then, lol. But great update again. I'm curious about the number of people leaving Valentina though, I wonder how many believe they'll find a better life in the Raven Alliance as opposed to the Combine.
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Great update as always, I think the Inner Sphere inadvertently dodged a bullet with the Clan's decision to abandon C3. Nice stuff with Burton, I wonder what these Free Terra fundies are, closet Blakists or something else?
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I'm confused, where did the Confederated Suns thing start coming out?
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I'm confused, where did the Confederated Suns thing start coming out?
The Confederated Suns is a nation in the Empire's Aflame universe. Warrior House Sortek is loyal to the Chancellor Prince David Davion-Liao they went on a little trip and got lost...
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Quote from: DOC_Agren on July 28, 2016, 03:02:44
Don't you just hate it when you miss jump and have no idea you did
I think they were more concerned with the failing orbit of their Davion II than where they'd jumped to
Quote from: JA Baker on July 28, 2016, 12:46:01
That has got to be the mother, father, brother, sister, aunt, uncle, cousin and other assorted family members of miss-jumps :D
Quote from: Wrangler on July 28, 2016, 13:52:35
Warrior House Sortek? Wat....this isn't Empires Aflame?!?! :D
Well... O:-)
What just because the ship is well breaking up that they didn't notice they Misjumped, I'm not sure they would have beleived if they jumped in clean. Look at how the Warrior House Sortek are taking to the news now.
And the sad thing is I know a gamer who dice rolls could have gotten him this Misjump
Now if the they jumped out of the AU, I wonder what are whom got sucked from Prime to the AU in return
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In the Marian/Canopian border conflict, you mention Green Hills being held by both. Is it in dispute or did you intend to say the Canopians claimed Draco III or Hesduros?
Also, whoops, totally missed adding the dozen or so new worlds in the southwest periphery, they'll be in the next map.
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The Confederated Suns is a nation in the Empire's Aflame universe. Warrior House Sortek is loyal to the Chancellor Prince David Davion-Liao they went on a little trip and got lost...
I guess i missed you entry on House Sortek's JumpShip miss-jumping into your AU-Universe. :/
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I guess i missed you entry on House Sortek's JumpShip miss-jumping into your AU-Universe. :/
Reply 209
High Orbit
El Dorado, Crucis March
Federated Suns
28th March 3105
Vition2 - Green Hills is held by the Magistracy as is Ealen IV, Cronkee, Sundown and Hesduros with Oquiu and Caramaine effectively dead
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Diplomatic Visit, Subtelty (McKenna-class Battleship)
Marik, District of Marik
Free Worlds League
6th June 3105
Shortly after arriving in the Marik system the Subtelty Profitable Training College of Military Arts is visited by Captain-General Joseph Marik. During his visit Joseph Marik, like previous leaders, attempts to recruit the training college however the Captain William Leroy-Dietrich refuses stating that the Subtlety will head for Outreach to pay their respects before heading to Galatea to officially register with the MRBC as a training institution. Leroy-Dietrich does agree to keep the Subtlety in the system for two months training with the District of Marik forces.
Elsewhere in the Free Worlds League District of Lesnovo land on the periphery border worlds of Patrician and Astroskazy both planets had been fought over by the Marian Hegemony and the Magistracy of Canopus and were a hotbed of pirate activity. The forces on Patrician are destroyed quickly by the disciplined District of Lesnovo troops however the fighting on Astrokaszy is far less clean cut. The District of Lesnovo troops assigned to the planet’s conquest take heavy damage attempting to stop a lance of pirate BattleMechs carrying the number “7” even as the Free Worlds League troops try to corner this lance they open themselves to fire from other pirate groups. For three months the District of Lesnovo attempt to bring Astrokazsy under the heel of the Free Worlds League losing the Second Rim Guardians Regiment before withdrawing.
Assassination Contract
Lothario, Lothian League
Periphery
18th June 3105
Shots rang out across the plaza as the leader of the Lothian League Amanda Logan was hit by three sniper shots. Moments later a second round of shots took out two of her guards and hit Logan a fourth time even as medical teams rushed to the scene. Security personnel moved in on the firing nest the Bounty Hunter was on the move jumping clear of the area in a green power armour suit. Even as the assassin tried to escape from the area two BattleMechs, an Ebon Jaguar and a Catapult, arrived at the end of the street keeping the defenders at a distance the Catapult’s Arrow IV artillery missile causing massive, and intentional, collateral damage as they began to withdraw.
For several hours Lothian League security and mercenary forces attempted to hunt down the Bounty Hunter and their BattleMech support but each time the Lothian forces got close to the assassin other a Pheonix Hawk or Shadow Hawk BattleMech would appear on their flanks before disappearing into a cloud of ECM interference disrupting the Lothian man hunt.
When the death of Amanda Logan was announced planet-wide the desire to chase the Bounty Hunter and his BattleMechs quickly diminished for the Lothian and mercenary forces allowing the mercenary assassin to disappear and escape the planet. With the passing of Amanda Logan announced the Advisory Council on Lothario attempted to take control of the nation but eighteen year old Clarissa Logan, Amanda’s daughter, was already declaring herself the future “Mistress” of the League.
Perimetre Line, Militia Firebase
Oro, El Dorado
Crucis March, Federated Suns
22nd June 3105
“Ban-zhang Li Sunn we are tracking unidentified BattleMechs on our Perimetre.” MechWarrior Tatyana Zheng Hong the second most senior member of his lance reported she was at the far side of their firebase on patrol.
“We will be there presently” Li Sunn promised turning his Lao Hu BattleMech towards her position along side him the Caesar which had been accompanying him turned as well Chin Li Sunn was glad to see the junior MechWarrior follow without being ordered to. They crossed the distance within a few moments coming across Tatyana Hong’s Cataphract BattleMech and the Rifleman that completed their lance standing guard. “Have they moved?”
“Standard patrol movements we believe there is an Enforcer III and another fifty ton design we cannot identify out there.” Hong reported as they arrived
“Very good” Li Sunn said activating two controls on his BattleMech’s computer “this is Leftenant Li Sunn of the Warrior House Sortek to unidentified BattleMechs respond or be destroyed.” He commanded smiling when there was no response, there would be no response, after the coming battle his BattleMech’s computers would be analysed and they would show that his Mech sent a transmission to their enemy but no message had ever been sent his lance-mates would simply have been following his lead. He disabled the override command and swapped back to his lance only channel “Sunn Lance pursue and destroy intruders” he ordered each of his Mech’s none of them questioned his orders.
The four heavy Mechs of the lance moved forward beyond their designated patrol routes and into weapons range with the unidentified Mechs. Without hesitation Chin Li Sunn pulled the triggers for his LRM rack and ER Large Laser beside him the Caesar fire its own gauss rifle while the Rifleman struck out with paired light particle cannons. The only Mech not to fire was the lance’s Cataphract which was not yet in range of the two Mechs even with only three of his Mechs firing the effect on the Enforce III was devastating as they weapons tore the Mech’s left leg and right arm completely off the Mech. Even as the Enforcer III fell Li Sunn fired his Mech’s LB-type Autocannon at the Medium Mech sandblasting it with a cluster shot shredding armour across the BattleMech including the BattleMech’s head Li Sunn smiled ferally seeing the hit and taking the time to watch the Enforcer III fall to the ground he was rapidly brought back to the present when autocannon fire tore into the left side of his Mech fired from the other fast moving BattleMech. Twisting his Lao Hu’s torso to look at the Mech it looked similar to the Lyran Blitzkrieg with a single large cannon over its shoulder and capable of high speeds. The BattleMech was running fast around his formation peppering them with Rotary autocannon fire the pilot was obviously very experienced “walking” his autocannon from one target to the next as he turned. Li Sunn watched as the Cataphract stepped forward blasting the enemy Mech with its own LB-type autocannon not enough to knock the Mech down but enough to make the pilot decide that they wished to disengage from this battle with the BattleMech turning and turning to escape. Li Sunn was tempted to let the Mech go and carry word of Warrior House Sortek’s battle prowess but he never got a choice to make that decision as the Caesar fire its gauss rifle and particle cannon at the retreating Mech’s back both shots penetrated the rear torso of the Mech coring through the BattleMech’s fusion engine shielding causing it to explode. “Li Sunn to command we’ve had an incident on the perimeter two BattleMechs have been destroyed by my lance.”
Several hours later Leftenant Li Sunn stood in front of Warrior House Leader Imarra Sortek. “I just had an extended discussion with Marshal Goddard” she said “they have no record of your transmission.”
“I sent that communication!” Li Sunn said defensively. “My BattleMech’s records will confirm the communication.”
“Yes our analysis does point to that, unfortunately neither of the AFFS Mechs confirms it…”
“Doctored records!” Li Sunn said “they are trying to make us look like an aggressor!”
“I cannot rule out that” Sortek admitted rising from her chair “which is why the Seventh New Avalon Guards have agreed to withdraw a further three hundred metres from our perimeter…”
“We should extend our patrols…” Li Sunn began seeing an opportunity the AFFS obviously had no stomach losses in combat.
“No” Sortek said “our patrols being too close to the AFFS patrols caused this problem once it will not happen again do you understand me Leftenant?” She asked looking at him Li Sunn was quite sure that she knew what he had done, but that his override had taken away the evidence.
“Yes sir” he said now knew that she wouldn’t be convinced again and that she had accepted the fact that they were in the Federated Suns and that she was leading their unit into accepting this nation he could not see his Warrior House betray their oath to the Chancellor and he would not. “I shall disseminate these orders to the command.”
“Thank you, Leftenant, you are dismissed.” She said he saluted in the traditional Capellan way and then left the room. She hadn’t expected him to act on his dislike for their current situation but obviously she’d been wrong it was something that would need monitored.
Across the continent the Seventh New Avalon Guards RCT redeploys giving Warrior House Sortek more room elsewhere in the Federated Suns the AFFS push the Capellan Confederation back into their own territory. Unlike previous border conflicts the AFFS does not push into the Capellan Confederation instead content to clear the Federated Suns of a Capellan presence.
Elsewhere in the Inner Sphere the Rasalhague Dominion push the Draconis Combine forces off their worlds while also securing the Lyran worlds of Dalkeith and Sakhalin pushing Steiner and Kurita forces off these systems.
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Nice update! Looks like Ban-zhang Li Sunn needs to know the current realities of politics in this Inner Sphere!
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Fun Update!
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Great update :) seems the new Bounty Hunter's really taken to his job and is as ruthless as the preceeding one(s).
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This was done by marauder648 and Vition2 I've chosen to not modify it at all essentially it is an in universe perspective from operatives of the Draconis Combine.
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=53986.msg1243923#msg1243923 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=53986.msg1243923#msg1243923)
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This was done by marauder648 and Vition2 I've chosen to not modify it at all essentially it is an in universe perspective from operatives of the Draconis Combine.
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=53986.msg1243923#msg1243923 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=53986.msg1243923#msg1243923)
Interesting read.
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Command Meeting, Fire Base
Oro, El Dorado
Crucis March, Federated Suns
8th July 3105
Leftenant Chin Li Sunn sat in his BattleMech cockpit and watched as as the Deusenburg Luxury Hovercraft, two Templar III OmniMechs and three squads of Battle Armour all baring the insignia of the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns entered the fire base held by Warrior House Sortek. His hands tensed on the triggers as he followed the hovercraft all it would take is one volley and the craft would disappear forever and his Warrior House would have its place. He knew that it would also be the last thing he did if he fired Warrior House Leader Imarra Sortek had ordered free passage for the AFFS representatives even his own lance would fire on him for directly breaking her orders.
The hovercraft pulled up alongside the main administration building with the two Templar III OmniMechs and several of the Battle Armour troops standing guard around the limo and beside the front of the administration building. Three figures dressed in AFFS uniforms exited the hovercraft and made their way up into the main building inside they were met by Warrior House Leader Imarra Sortek and her brother Vincent Sortek. “Welcome I am Warrior House Leader Imarra Sortek and this is my brother Vincent.” she said greeting them Vincent remained silent bowing slightly.
“I am Marshal Duncan Goddard commander of the forces arrayed around you” the first said he was in his fifties but looked fit and most likely still an active fighter despite his rank.
“I thank you for your restraint thus far I have no wish to see this world turned into a battlefield.”
“Nor do I” he admitted his forces severely outnumbered hers so badly it would not be a fight. “Allow me to introduce Field Marshal Bishop Sortek commander of the Royal Brigade of Davion Guards” he said stepping to one side revealing the old man standing behind him. Immediately Imarra Sortek bowed her head.
“Elder Sortek” she said seeing the man properly for the first time showing him the respect he was due.
“No lass I’m not the Elder you are looking for” the old man said with a small smile. “I am just an old soldier ready for his retirement” he said slowly Imarra raised her head again looking at him properly Sortek looked the same but the fire that lit Elder Bishop Sortek’s eyes was not there instead there was a weathered soldier who although old looked dangerous.
“And Field Marshal Conner Sortek the commander of the First Davion Guards” Marshal Goddard said immediately Vincent took several steps forward.
“Son of the Traitor” the younger Warrior House Sortek said stepping towards the youngest of the three men. He was older than Vincent and looked close to Imarra’s own age just like his namesake, Conner Sortek the Duke of Robinson in her universe serving the Draconis Combine.
“Vincent!” Imarra commanding him to stop with a single use of his name a disciplined Warrior House officer Vincent stopped short of reaching Conner Sortek who had not moved a single step. “This is not our… place” she said trying to find the correct words looking at Conner Sortek the blonde hair was there but the scar running down through his left eye was missing in fact all of the dis-figuration on that side of his face was missing, this was not their Conner Sortek. If any of the Warrior House needed proof that they were no longer in the Confederation Suns then this should be proof of that fact.
“My father was not a traitor her died serving this nation” Conner Sortek replied angrily staring at Vincent Sortek his father Arden Sortek was not a traitor.
“Please accept my apologies for my brother” Imarra said imposing herself between Conner and Vincent. “Where we are from Duke Arden Sortek sold out the Sandoval family to House Kurita and was installed as Duke of Robinson before being assassinated. You...” She explained before stopping “Conner Sortek was badly burned by the same assassin.” She turned to Vincent Sortek “control yourself these are not the same people we know” she said “how am I supposed to convince our command of the differences if I can’t even convince you?” Her brother took several steps backwards and seemed to be calming down.
“We all have many adjustments to make.” Vincent said bowing his head slightly towards Conner.
“I would like to offer an olive branch that could help your progress in making that adjustment.” Bishop Sortek said speaking up gaining all their attention “First Prince Davion has granted this request so it is solely up to Warrior House Sortek to agree.” He said informing them Victor Steiner-Davion wanted them off El Dorado and although it had taken some convincing he’d finally agreed that this was the best course. “I would like Warrior House Sortek to join me on New Avalon at the the Sortek family residence. You will monitored by the AFFS units on New Avalon but you will be allowed to keep your DropShips and your equipment.”
“One position of house arrest to another…” Vincent began
“New Avalon” Imarra whispered her mind being cast back to the last time she’d been on New Avalon on the burned grounds of House Sortek which were still occupied by the Draconis Combine. “We will accept” she said looking at her brother for a long moment Vincent finally nodded his agreement “our unit will be ready to move as soon as you are ready for us.” She said to them caught up in the moment of returning to New Avalon.
“It may take some time to prepare but it will happen” Bishop promised the two younger Sorteks.
Border Battle, Contested Zone
Draconis Combine/Lyran Commonwealth border
21st July 3105
The conflicted zone between the Lyran Commonwealth, the Draconis Combine and Rasalhague Dominion comes to an end as each of the three nations withdraws from conflicted planetary systems. The Lyrans are able to retain Phalan and Eaglesham while the Draconis Combine continues to control Shionoha and Cabalrai while also capturing Corridan IV, Yed Posterlor and Baxter from the Lyran Commonwealth.
Break-out, Failing Karuna (Lung Wang)
Oro, El Dorado
Crucis March, Federated Suns
26th July 3105
“Deploy those loyal to us on all decks” Leftenant Chin Li Sunn said looking at the other members of Warrior House Sortek loyal to him and to the idea of returning to the Confederation Li Sunn had convinced them all that it was their only path. “I will secure the bridge” he promised them “we will then take this ship to a jump point commandeer a JumpShip and return to the grace of the Chancellor.” He said they all nodded their agreement and began to head for their positions throughout the ship while Chin headed for the ship’s control bridge. For the last two weeks their unit had done everything that the AFFS had asked of them taking steps towards preparing for their trip to New Avalon it was steps too far for Chin and the others.
It took him less than ten minutes to make his way through the DropShip and clear security checkpoints without firing a shot behind him those loyal to Chin following him overpowering the ship’s complement quickly bloodlessly. Entering the bridge he drew his sidearm just as the ship’s commander turned to face him “what is the meaning of this?” The man demanded looking at Chin’s pistol.
“Captain Vedder you are to taxi this vessel to take off and you are to take us out of the atmosphere. We will head towards the jump point and from there use JumpShip to take us into the Capellan Confederation.” He said explaining his plan Captain Vedder looked angry at the proposal which made Chin more determined to succeed his Warrior House needed to be shown the true path of all Warrior Houses. “I have people on all decks and much of your crew are with us.”
“Preposterous” Vedder said dismissing the idea that they would sign on with Chin Li Sunn against him.
“No Captain we all want this”
“Not all of us” Warrior House Leader Imarra Sortek said stepping into view from another enterance her weapon drawn and aimed at him. “There are those within your movement still loyal to me they told me about your plan, Chin, my people have surrounded this vessel and other decks are being contacted to surrender. This did not have to happen Chin we should have worked together.” She said trying to convince him to stand down.
“There is no place in your future Warrior House. We will not surrender!” Chin said angrily his weapon not leaving Captain Vedder.
“You have no choice…” Imarra Sortek began
A shot rang out…
Blood smeared the cockpit windows as the shot fired from Chin Li Sunn’s weapon impacted with Captain Vedder’s head killing the man instantly. Even as Vedder’s corpse began to fall Chin was turning towards Imarra Sortek but he wasn’t quick enough to land a blow before she fired a succession of shots was exchanged between the two of them with one hitting Imarra Sortek’s shoulder knocking her down but several shots hit the traitorous Leftenant. Even as Imarra Sortek struggled back to her feet she could see that Chin Li Sunn was down and would not be getting back up she leveled her weapon at his body.
“That was a mistake” she said angrily trying to ignore the pain from her shoulder she pulled the trigger of her pistol several times shooting Chin’s downed form she knew why he had done what he had. By forcing the Warrior House Leader to kill him he had martyred himself for his cause the other rebellious men and women onboard the Failing Karuna surrendered shortly after hearing of their leader’s demise but his death would have a far lasting effect. Within her command there would always be questions asking if Chin Li Sunn had been correct by choosing his path instead of where the unit was now. Imarra Sortek could not do anything about the decisions made by Chin Li Sunn for now all she could do is continue to prepare her unit for its move to New Avalon and to House Sortek’s territory there
Command Tent, 20th Arcturan Guards RCT
Outskirts Wolf City, Arc Royal
Arc Royal Theatre, Lyran Commonwealth
31st July 3105
“This decision will kill my Clan” Evan Kell, Khan of the Mountain Wolf Clan, said angrily looking at General of Armies Aiden Gray.
“The Jade Falcons hold more than half of this world, this is our only hope of bringing peace to our border.” The General of Armies answered
“We can still win!” Kell said stepping closer to Gray who stood his ground against the younger man.
“And if we did that we would lose our entire border!” Gray replied “your units elsewhere are holding the Falcons in place we have showed elsewhere we can take territory from them if you move your units here then we give them room to move.”
“Arc Royal is key to my Clan’s future.”
“You have other facilities on Gallery” Gray said seeing Kell begin a rebuttal “we know they are more extensive than you have let on.” He said the LIC didn’t know exactly what the Wolves had transferred there but it was suggested that the Mountain Wolves had a back-up Genetic Repository, Iron Wombs and a BattleMech construction facility.
“The Archon gave us territory to use as we desired” Kell said defensively
“Exactly you have worked to maintain your Clan’s strength” Gray said “losing Arc Royal will be a blow to our nation not just your Clan” he said understanding the Khan’s hurt “but if we are victorious we will buy time to rebuild for your Clan and our nation.”
“It is a decision that should not have been made without us…” Kell began but Gray broke in.
“This is the Lyran Commonwealth this decision was made to secure a Lyran future.” He said reaching for the radio transmitter “Jade Falcons this is Aiden Gray General of Armies for the Lyran Commonwealth. I am on Arc Royal and wish to challenge you to a Trial of Possession over this world.”
“General this is saKhan Beckett Malthus commander of the Jade Falcon forces on this world.” The thick accented Clan warrior replied “state your terms” he said.
“A Trial of Possession for control over this world and one to determine the end to this conflict between us.” Aiden Gray stated “our forces will battle for Possession over this and you and I will battle for the future of this conflict. If you win you kill the General of Armies of the Lyran Commonwealth and cripple my nation regardless of your victory on Arc Royal.”
“And if you win General Gray?”
“I win a two year peace with the Jade Falcons following your defeat.”
“You cannot be serious to end this war with a single victory?”
“I am very serious” Gray answered “the joint Clan invasion of the Inner Sphere was stopped by a single Trial between Victor Steiner-Davion and Lincoln Osis during the Great Refusal.”
“This is not the Great Refusal this is Jade Falcon against Lyran Commonwealth! Before the Great Refusal there were battles between all the Clans.”
“If you do not think you can defeat me then we can continue to pound each others militarizes until they are no more.” Gray said taunting his enemy “maybe the Jade Falcons participated in the Great Refusal only because the other Clans stood beside them.” Gray said despite the situation he couldn’t help but smile “it was the same on Tukayyid wasn’t it you only fought that battle because the other Clans…”
“SILENCE!” Malthus shouted into the communications system losing his temper. “You wish to fight me Aiden Gray then we will fight! Select your best company you will face my Keshik in open battle. And inform your best commanders that they will face mine in battle for this world.” He said cutting the transmission Aiden Gray turned to Evan Kell and smiled.
“Accepted” Aiden Gray said after a moment letting Malthus sweat for a moment “we will fight in three days south of Wolf City.”
“Seyla” the Jade Falcon saKhan said finally before cutting off the communications system.
“You will battle the Jade Falcons over Possession of Arc Royal” Gray said looking at Evan Kell who looked surprised “you know this world better than I and you have a vested interest in keeping this world in our Possession.” He explained taking a moment “while I have an interest in ending the conflict against the Lyran Commonwealth permanently so I will face the saKhan.” He said Kell nodded his understanding “over the next few days I suggest you continue to evacuate Mountain Wolf equipment and civilians to Gallery” he said Kell did not look happy with Gray’s suggestion that he would fail. “A precaution” Gray explained “I do not wish to see the Mountain Wolves crippled by a fluke victory by the Falcons.”
“I understand” Kell said trying to hide his frustration with Gray’s lack of confidence in his Mountain Wolves and their other forces. “I will also broadcast to any mercenary units still not involved in battle to evacuate the planet along with the civilians.”
“That may be a prudent choice.” Gray admitted there was no guarantees that in three days time the Lyran Commonwealth would stand victorious in either battle Arc Royal could fall today and in a few months Tharkad, Coventry, Donegal and Arcturus could all be threatened.
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*Grumbles about being left with a cliffhanger* I was gonna be back anyways. =p
Very interesting month, I had been wondering what was going on with the Falcon/Commonwealth war, and the strangeness happening with the weirdness on El Dorado could lead to some interesting stuffs.
One question though, Accrington in the GB/LC/DC warzone, with whom did it end up?
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;D Wow, what an update!
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Curse your cliffhanger! Great update though!
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Another chapter in arguably the best fan-fiction of Battletech!
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How far out from Arc Royal are the Davion battle wagons?
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Great update.
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How far out from Arc Royal are the Davion battle wagons?
Probably less than three days. #P
Really though, they are a few months overdue according to the original expected timeline - which I think was March-April - though lots of stuff could have happened to slow things down. On the other hand, they might not be worth sending in, a pair of Falcon battleships (even damaged) could give them a serious run for their money, and the Falcons have a few ships who's actual location is unknown (2 Patriot Heavy Cruisers, 2 Peregrine II Corvettes, and Peregrine I Corvette) and their Mississippi could be fully repaired by now (depending on how damaged it was to begin with, though the combat it saw seems to suggest mostly armor damage).
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One question though, Accrington in the GB/LC/DC warzone, with whom did it end up?
Accrington is a Rasalhague Dominion holding
Curse your cliffhanger! Great update though!
It was a cliffhanger or wait probably until today to get an update. I didn't want to rush writing the fight
Another chapter in arguably the best fan-fiction of Battletech!
Why thank you there is plenty good fan-fiction for BattleTech it makes this a wonderful universe to have fun with
How far out from Arc Royal are the Davion battle wagons?
The original estimate was Late 3105 we're in August, expect them between October and December
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Trial of Possession, Arc Royal
Arc Royal Theatre, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
3rd August 3105
Fighting roared over the surface of Arc Royal as the Lyran Commonwealth, Mountain Wolves along with some select mercenary commands fought to determine the fate of Arc Royal and the war between the Lyran Commonwealth and Clan Jade Falcon.
General Aiden Gray was in an unfamiliar position the Falcons were not fighting as their Clan normally did and his company were on the back-foot, they had been since they began fighting with the Falcons their more mobile units keeping his heavy and assault force under attack from all directions. With his customized Zeus in the centre of the formation Gray had kept his company together as they moved towards the Falcon deployment zone at the other-side of a massive nature reserve. From the Falcon harassing attacks he’d lost a Battlemaster, a Penetrator and a Viking while destroying a Jade Falcon Shadow Cat and a Kestrel both OmniMechs but hardly an equal exchange. He hoped that Khan Evan Kell and the other defenders were having a better battle against the Falcons.
As they approached the Falcon deployment zone Aiden Gray readied his weapons “watch our flanks” he called out as he saw the Falcons had not remained at the deployment zone. So far the Jade Falcon attacks were atypical of what the Lyrans had come to expect of the Falcons who generally fought in a stand-up battle facing an enemy from the front.
“Behind us!” The Salamander pilot shouted a warning as laser and autocannon fire hammered the rear of the BattleMech. Aiden Gray turned to look and saw two Gyrfalcon BattleMechs jumping back out of range leaving the damaged Salamander to turn with the company. “Why don’t they fight?” The pilot demanded
“Keep your head Wilson” Aiden said looking at his sensors for the Falcons who again had disappeared “everyone listen we have the Falcons at a disadvantage in tonnage and they know it so they are playing the long game they are trying to whittle us down we cannot let them the Commonwealth is counting on us.” He said trying to rally his troops as their sensors detected incoming Falcons a Turkina and Tomahawk OmniMechs accompanied by an Onager, Cygnus and Hellstar BattleMechs.
“Holy…” someone began to say before Aiden spoke up.
“Can it!” The General of armies called out there were three Mechs still missing from the Jade Falcon line up but even though those five assault Mechs carried significant firepower. “Charlie take what you have left up and join me we’re taking them on. Mike swing your lance around them and try and hit their backs but keep an eye out for the rest of them.” He ordered effectively turning his company into two lances. He’d have his Zeus, a Zeus X, the damaged Salamander a King Crab and a Fafnir against the assault lance suddenly the confidence he held before that he had superior tonnage didn’t feel so good. “We just need to be better shots boys and girls hammer them!”
Between the two sides weapons fire was exchanged particle cannons, lasers, autocannons and missiles flew stuck BattleMechs on both sides. Aiden steered away from becoming focused on a single target instead he tried to help the other guardsmen standing with him together they took down the eighty-five ton Cygnus with some light damage done to the Zeus X and the Fafnir taking heavy damage to its left leg. Mike Sutton reported his scout lance had destroyed one of the Gryfalcon BattleMechs but he’d lost the other three Mechs of his command to a Summoner II OmniMech which had appeared from nowhere. “Come join the rest of us Mike, we need to hold together” Aiden said as the two sides pulled back giving the General a moment to take stock both sides had six Mechs left and there was fight in both sides.
As Mike’s Stiletto OmniMech rejoined the other BattleMechs they moved forward together “time to throw them off guys, you know the game plan, good luck to you all.” He said they had decided before the battle to approach the final engagement in a particular way if at all possible. Stepping clear of the others Aiden Gray activated his comms “I am Aiden Gray I challenge saKhan Beckett Malthus to a duel one on one.” He said moment’s later Mike Sutton spoke up challenging the Gyrfalcon pilot followed by the others calling the Falcons out using their own honour rules.
“I am Beckett Malthus what is this Aiden Gray?” The Jade Falcon replied after several moments of silence between the two groups. Aiden saw the Summoner II step forwards he knew it was the Jade Falcon saKhan and passed to all his units his next command even as the saKhan spoke “you think we will honour your challenges after the way you have fought?” He asked before continuing “this is a fight to the death there will be no duels.”
“Fire!” Aiden Gray commanded ignoring saKhan Malthus all six of his remaining Mechs fired on the Summoner II now standing clear of the other Jade Falcon Mechs. Even as fire ripped into the seventy ton OmniMech knocking it to the ground particle cannons, lasers and autcannons flew from the other Jade Falcon Mechs striking all six of the Lyran Mechs. The Fafnir was the first to fall as particle cannon fire burned through its armour destroying both of the Heavy Gauss Rifles there causing massive internal explosions. “Hold it together!” Gray shouted into his comms as laser and autocannon fire from the Gyrfalcon tore through the armour and cockpit of Mike Sutton’s Stiletto and then the Gryfalcon was shredded by long range missiles from the Lyran Salamander.
In the centre of the Jade Falcon battle-line the Summoner II tried to get back to its feet only to be struck by plasma rifle and autocannon fire from Aiden’s King Crab which was marching with a purpose towards the Jade Falcons. “No” Aiden whispered before deciding to support the MechWarrior “COVER HIM!” He shouted a warning to his other two remaining Mechs. The Zeus X and Salamander pilots combined with Aiden to bring down the Onager as the King Crab pilot walked right up to the Tomahawk opening fire on the assault OmniMech at point blank range with everything it had as the Tomahawk did the same. Both one hundred ton designs disappeared in balls of flames as the two MechWarriors ignored the damage done to their Mechs and kept firing until both were destroyed in a huge explosion as their ammunition bins exploded.
“This is Aiden Gray to the remaining Falcons you have fought well you do not have to continue this fight” he said as the Turkina pilot opened fire on his Zeus autocannon, particle cannon and long range missile fire tore into the General’s BattleMech with several missiles slamming into the cockpit of his Mech the entire right hand side of his cockpit flashed and sparked burning Aiden’s arm. Madison Stuart’s Zeus X charged between Aiden and the Turkina absorbing a second salvo of missiles and autocannon fire buying the General time to recover from the first attack. As Madison struggled to keep her Mech standing and failed the eighty ton Mech falling to the ground even as Aiden opened fire with his Mech’s clan made particle cannon and extended long range missiles hurting the Turkina. Long range missile fire from their Salamander caused further damage but the ninety-five ton Falcon OmniMech stood firm standing up to the punishment being dealt by the three Steiner BattleMechs.
Particle cannon fire from the Jade Falcon Hellstar burned through the heavy ferro-fibrous armour covering Aiden’s Zeus’ left leg damaging the internal structure there. “Adam buy us time” he ordered the Salamander pilot.
“I’m down to the last few salvos” the pilot replied but it didn’t stop him turning his guns on the distant Hellstar firing at it with his long range missiles immediately it showed he’d gotten the Clanner’s attention as particle cannons burned over the Salamander in a ferocious counter-attack.
“Do what you can” Aiden said weakly he could feel the blood seeping from his injured arm but remained in the fight firing his particle cannon into the Turkina even as the OmniMech fired on him with both of its autocannons in scatter-shot mode. Autocannon pellets exploded over the Zeus causing armour loss all over the BattleMech. “Madie you alright?” He asked seeing the Zeus X struggle to its feet.
“Engine shieldin’s gone not much left of her” she struggled bringing the Zeus X up Aiden could see a large gash in the torso running up towards the cockpit as the BattleMech stood.
“Are you hurt?” He asked turning his Mech’s torso to track the moving Turkina.
“I’m fine” she replied turning her Mech firing its light gauss rifle and missiles at the Turkina.
“Pull back…” Aiden ordered just as the Salamander was hammered by particle cannon fire.
“There is no pulling back” Madison replied engaging the Zeus again Aiden followed suit causing heavy damage to the Turkina which wasn’t firing either of its long range missile launchers any more instead the Jade Falcon Mech launched into the air on its jump jets landing close to them the pilot kept his OmniMech running at the Lyran Mechs. Both particle cannons flashed to life cutting into Madison’s Mech before jumping again midway through its jump the Turkina altered its flight path straight at Madison’s BattleMech. The two Mechs collided at ferocious speed knocking down the Zeus X for a second time Aiden targeted the Turkina with his particle cannon and a medium x-pulse laser into the Clan Mech. Despite the physical exchange between the Turkina and Madison’s downed Mech and Aiden’s fire the Turkina remained standing and fired both autocannons into Madison’s downed Mech straight into the Zeus X’s cockpit.
“You son-of-a-bitch!” Aiden screamed angrily firing his particle cannon again heat washed into the eighty ton BattleMech’s cockpit as the man made lightning burned into the Turkina. Aiden stepped forward and turned his Mech and slammed the BattleMech’s left arm into the assault OmniMech smashing its armour he pulled the trigger again firing at point blank destroying the Turkina’s gyroscope. The ninety-five ton OmniMech lost its balance and fell to the ground like a drunken sailor who’d had one drink too much.
Even as Aiden Gray finished the Turkina Adam Gansa fired his last salvo of long range missiles into the enemy Hellstar fire blossomed over the enemy Mech but it continued forward. The Lyran BattleMech pilot closed his eyes for a moment knowing what was coming as the Hellstar’s remaining two particle cannons burned into the crippled Salamander knocking it down.
“Stay down Adam there’s nothing more you can do” Aiden Gray said moving his Mech across the littered battlefield firing the extended long range missiles into the heavily damaged Hellstar even as the missiles hit he fired a particle cannon shot into the the Jade Falcon assault Mech. The Hellstar rocked on its heels from the hit but seemed ready for another attack Aiden didn’t give it a chance instead hitting it with another salvo despite the raising heat in his cockpit. The Hellstar fired its two Particle Cannons with only one striking Aiden’s Mech the other disappearing into the sky. Aiden pulled both triggers again his eyes beginning to feel heavy as he lost strength due to blood loss from his arm injury he saw his particle cannon shot go wide missing the Falcon Hellstar but didn’t see any missiles glancing at the controls he realized that his missile bays were empty. He cut to the right trying to close the distance between him and the Hellstar now without the long range missiles he had the particle cannon, one medium pulse laser and two machine guns not much at all.
Even as Aiden turned his BattleMech to the left and to the right trying to throw off the Hellstar’s shots he saw Adam Gansa wrestle with his Salamander back to its feet. “Adam stay down” Aiden commanded seeing the Salamander right itself turning towards the Hellstar.
“No way am I dying on the deck I’m going to keep his attention just make sure you kill him General.” The man said throttling up his Mech to a hobbled run just as the Salamander was hit by a particle cannon shot. Aiden continued to zig-zag towards his target but Adam’s Salamander ran right at the Jade Falcon Hellstar resulting in the assault Mech being hit over and over by particle cannon fire. Aiden watched his sensors as the Salamander was picked to pieces even as Adam fired his medium lasers in return scoring light damage Aiden added in his particle cannon but heat build up was still a problem. “For the Commonwealth!” Adam struggled over the comms as more particle cannon fire punched through the Salamander’s torso slamming into the fusion engine underneath causing it to overheat and explode consuming the Mech in fire. As Adam’s scream filled the radio Aiden fired on the Hellstar his particle cannon finally punching through the Hellstar’s torso armour there was an internal flash and the Hellstar stumbled Aiden wasted no time as soon as his the particle cannon cycled he fired again striking the Hellstar’s damaged torso causing the BattleMech to shut down. With Aiden the only MechWarrior still standing the Commonwealth had won their peace but at a cost Aiden had watched his entire company destroyed and had been badly injured himself. Standing beside the shutdown Hellstar the Lyran General of Armies wept in his cockpit as he hoped that the battle for Arc Royal would fair better.
Across the planet Khan Evan Kell fought with elements of Clan Mountain Wolf, the Lyran Commonwealth, elements of the Star League Defence Force and several mercenary commands for the control of Arc Royal. The Kell Hounds who had classed Arc Royal as their home with their command and morale broken had chosen not to fight for this world instead under the command of young Lt Colonel Jeremy Kell they had pulled off the planet with their dependents leaving its defence to Clan Mountain Wolf.
Initial exchanges had gone the Lyran Commonwealth’s way with Evan Kell’s forces able to corner and destroy the remains of the Fourth Falcon Lancers Cluster however after that the tide had turned on the Mountain Wolves with the Fourth and Sixth Wolf Grenadiers Clusters and The Dark Specters Mercenary Battalion all shredded by Jade Falcon fire.
“We cannot keep taking losses like this Khan Kell” General Bruce Kummert, the commander of the Twentieth Arcturan Guards RCT, said he was standing across from the Khan in their command tent.
“I agree” Kell replied “we need to break the Jade Falcon command.” He said determined to see their actions remembered “I will lead our assault elements against the enemy command element we’ll crush the Falcons and end this.” He said “prepare your men”
Soon after the core of the Lyran/Wolf assault forces were moving towards the Jade Falcons as a single unit throughout their approach they were attacked from all sides as the Jade Falcons employed similar tactics to those used by their Khan during his Trial of Possession employing light units to harass their enemy. As they closed on the Jade Falcon commanders a star of light Mechs ran into the centre of the Wolf lines and assaulted Evan Kell’s Orion IIC from all sides with the Jade Falcons abandoning Zellbrigen in an effort to take down Kell’s Mech. With his usual Lycurgus OmniMech gone in the opening engagements on Arc Royal months ago Evan had been forced to accept the ancient Orion IIC and had used it since the beginning of this trial. The Orion IIC had a history with Clan Wolf but it wasn’t as effective a fighter as his OmniMech had been. Attacked from all sides by the light Mechs it was like being attacked by a thousand paper cuts even as his Golden Keshik turned on the Falcon attackers destroying them one by one Khan Evan Kell’s Mech was cut down, the Khan along with it.
With Evan Kell out of the fight and neither a Mountain Wolf or Lyran commander able to agree who was in command the Jade Falcons smashed the assault force destroying the Golden Keshik and the Mountain Wolves Seventh Wolf Guards Cluster. With their main assault forces destroyed and the assault Mechs of the Twentieth Arcturan Guards RCT destroyed the Jade Falcons drove the defenders back to their base camp effectively ending the Trial. General Bruce Kummert as the most senior commander on scene announced the Lyran surrender of the Trial of Possession and Arc Royal with it. From Orbit Lyran Commonwealth and Mountain Wolf WarShips began a steady evacuation of their forces from the planet taking with them hundreds of civilians who didn’t wish to live under Clan rule.
For the Jade Falcons success they were able to secure the majority of Mountain Wolf Industries factories, two armoured vehicle production facilities, a BattleMech production line and all of the Mountain Wolves aerospace production facilities including their orbital repair station, aerospace fighter and Isegrim Assault DropShip construction facilities. As a final insult the Jade Falcon commander Galaxy Commander Jurgen Hazen returned a defeated Khan Evan Kell to his Clan instead of taking him as a Bondsmen.
Withdrawing from Arc Royal the Mountain Wolves move their remaining production facilities and the civilians they were able to take to Gallery while Evan Kell sunders Beta Galaxy folding its forces into a far depleted Alpha Galaxy.
While the Mountain Wolves lick their wounds the Lyran Commonwealth embrace their two year peace with the Jade Falcons ordering all commands on the Falcon border to remain in position while their production facilities are geared to rebuilding their shattered military. From Arcturus congratulations is passed to Aiden Gray for securing a peace but also news that Archon Jessica Steiner has given birth to her third child Elden Steiner bringing some light to the war-weary Lyran Commonwealth.
Across the border with their chain of command crippled by the fight for Incukalns and Arc Royal the Jade Falcons also begin to rebuild with Jurgen Hazen claiming the position of saKhan hours after the victory on Arc Royal.
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Border skirmish
District of Oriente, Free Worlds League
Periphery
12th August 3105
After months of low intensive fighting along the Magistracy of Canopus and District of Oriente borders the Oriente’s neighbouring District of Lesnovo wade’s into battle against the Magistracy opening up a second front on the Periphery state. The borders are further destabilized when the Capellan Confederation invades the systems of Antipolo and Kwarmshu of the District of Oriente effectively turning the entire region into a contested zone with none of the involved factions able to bring enough forces to the region to squash their enemies resistance.
Clan Council Meeting, Clan Hall
Phillip Drummond City, New Barcella
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
22nd August 3105
At sixty-seven years old Canin Rosse was one of the oldest serving Clans in the current active Clans but he carried himself like a man twenty years younger and was undisputed in his command of the Nova Cat Clan. Entering the Clan Hall he saw the Bloodnamed warriors of the Nova Cat Clan stepping in front of them the Khan looked around the warriors of his Clan for three weeks he had lived in the wilderness of New Barcella on a Vision Quest. “I have had a vision” he announced looking around the warriors he saw some looked skeptical but Oathmaster Klick Lenardon nodded his agreement. “Our Clan needs to change its approach to succeed or we will disappear.”
“Which is something I have been suggesting for months…” saKhan Katrine Devalis said interrupting immediately the saKhan realized she had made a mistake and withdrew allowing Canin to speak.
“Out Clan needs to redefine what it means to be Clan Nova Cat to find our spirit and our drive.” He said looking around the hall “year on year less Nova Cats undertake a vision quest and fewer bring new meaning to our Clan.” Canin Rosse said the Nova Cat’s traditional values were to embrace visions and take new paths something truly lacking at the present.
“What do you suggest Khan Rosse you seem to have all the answers?” saKhan Katrine Devalis asked remaining off to the side.
“We must relearn the Nova Cat’s spirit it will not happen overnight but it must come from the top which means from all of you.” He said looking around the Clansmen “I believe we must end the division between ‘first and second line’ units” he said immediately he saw resistance to the idea on the faces of the Galaxy Commanders of the current front-line units. “We are all Nova Cats we all defend the Nova Cat’s Den and we all face the same threats.”
“How can we dispense with the distinction? There have always been those who are destined for the second line warriors and there are those who will be bloodnamed.” Katrine Devalis said from her words Canin knew she was against the idea.
“You are correct saKhan” Canin Rosse said conceding the point “but I believe it is time we take steps that will see all of our units capable of fighting our enemies. Can you really say that is the case now?” He asked challenging them all those with rank knew best but they all knew in their own way that there were members of the Nova Cat Touman who did not have the skills or equipment to face their enemies.
“You still have not said what you suggest” Katrine Devalis said continuing to challenge the Khan.
“We reclassify our units” Canin Rosse explained the first step of his idea “those units currently classed as Guard, Garrison and Regular units will be reclassified in the same category. They will receive the same equipment and training” he said explaining the second step “and those warriors incapable of meeting the grade will be removed from these units.” There was a murmour that run around the chamber as each warrior realized how large a change it was that the Khan was proposing.
“I object” Star Colonel Kalvin Rosse, the commander of the elite First Nova Cat Guards Cluster, spoke up. “There are certain units that have a storied history in our Clan it is a heritage that warriors of those units draw strength from” he said Canin Rosse noticed Kalvin exchange a glance with Wrecken Rosse, the commander of the Fourth Nova Cat Guards Cluster another elite command and a unit of Canin’s own Delta Galaxy.
“Aff I know certain units have a right to retain their designations” Canin Rosse admitted it was the reistance that Canin had expected to come from certain units.
“So one rule for one and one rule for another” challenged Katrine Devalis “you wish to distinguish between front and second line and yet certain units retain their traditional names there is a problem with your idea Khan.”
“Neg there is not” the Khan said angrily that Katrine was continuing her challenge “each unit will be held to the same standards meaning our combat effectiveness will improve across our Clan. Each cluster will be given the same access to the same equipment our effectiveness will improve.” He said confident of his plan “our Cavalry and Cavaliers units to will be renamed in an effort to streamline our commands” he said raising his hand seeing another objection being raised. “I know certain units will want to retain their designations” he said thinking of the Forty-fourth and Forty-sixth Cavaliers Clusters “which is why we should have a series of Trials” he said thinking of a solution “for those units who wish to retain their designations they will face their peer clusters and should they be victorious then they can choose retain their names.” He said knowing that it was in keeping with Clan tradition and it would give the Nova Cat units a chance to fight weeding out more of those who were not able to keep up with the other Nova Cat units. Even Katrine Devalis did not have an objection this time remaining silent “our Assault and Battle Clusters will likewise share a designation while all of those clusters that have a name that does not conform with the already named formations will together become a new class of unit in our Clan.”
“And what will be the names of these new units?” saKhan Katrine Devalis asked her voice less confrontational in tone than it had been previously.
“The Roar, Spirit, Pouncer and Vision Clusters” Galaxy Commander Tryina Drummond of Xi Galaxy said speaking up breaking the confrontation between the two Khans. Of all the Nova Cat’s units Xi Galaxy was the one that could be described as the most extreme in its attempts to follow what they saw as the true traditions of Clan Nova Cat.
No-one spoke up in objection of her suggestion instead the Clan Council decided over the course of several hours what units would be allowed to attempt to retain their current names and who would face them in combat. Over the course of the next three weeks each of the Clusters that wished to remain the same fought to retain their current identity facing against their peers in live fire combat while costly the Trials brought the Nova Cats closer together as individual units and drove the Clan closer together as they fought for a common goal. After the end of the Trials only eight units retained their previous designations the First and Fourth Nova Cat Guard Clusters, the Forty-fourth and Forty-sixth Nova Cat Cavaliers Clusters, the Rossei Cloister, the 449th and 450th Assault Cluster and the 109th Battle Cluster all others began to embrace their new identity. Unsurprisingly no-one paid any attention to the fact that the Watch Clusters retained their previous designations with few of the Clan’s “true” warriors caring what the Watch did.
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a double whammy of updates and what updates they are. Katrine Devalis is gonna kill Canin or he's gonna kill her, those two butting heads so publically like that can only cause problems in the future. Interesting idea to harmonize the units though for a more unified feel, although you can bet that there will be more than a few trials of grievance between the troops over this.
The battle between the Lyran/Mountain Wolf vs Falcons was one hell of a punch up. I doubt the Wolves or Lyrans will be too pleased with the Kell Hounds pulling out like that. It made sense that the SaKhan would be in the Thor II, bless the Falcons and their obcession with that thing :p
So the Lyrans got their 2 years of much needed peace (and it was something the Falcons needed even if they were unwilling to admit it) as both sides were smashing their militaries to bits against each other, although this really was the last roll of the dice for the Falcons as they were scraping the bottom of the manpower barrel. But now with Sudeten and Arc Royal in their hands they can rebuild, although 2 years isn't much time to get new Sibkin out into the field.
Superbly written battle scenes though! Great stuff as always!
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Great updates Dragon Cat.
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Great update.
Not any peace for the Falcons as the other clans will still be attacking. O0
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Two years of peace?
So, the fighting on the Jade Falcon front should start up again just as the first Indefatigable is ready to enter service [watch]
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Two years of peace?
So, the fighting on the Jade Falcon front should start up again just as the first Indefatigable is ready to enter service [watch]
Really?
It's almost like the General of the Armies had a plan, I wonder how fast the LCAF can be rebuilt (and expanded?) now they have ramped their industry up.
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Very nice update, and wow, at least a whole Galaxy's worth of Mountain Wolves destroyed in the past few months, and the loss of a good portion of their production, they are going need to take quite a bit of time to recover - if they ever do.
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Really?
It's almost like the General of the Armies had a plan, I wonder how fast the LCAF can be rebuilt (and expanded?) now they have ramped their industry up.
Well, back in August of 3104, Burton Davion said that if they pushed the yards, they could have the first Indefatigable complete and ready for acceptance trials in two years, so late 3106. The new peace is set to hold until mid to late 3107, so it's possible that at least one new battleship will be ready to face the Falcons.
My only confusion is to what configuration DC is going to use: I've been working on the Indy for about ten years as part of my Outer Colonise setting, and she's gone through several revamps during that time. And that's not to mention any alterations he's made beyond adding WAMS.
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Well... looks like the mountain wolves are becoming Commonwealth lap dogs now :-[ this saddens me a great deal
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Rainbow 6: He may have
JA Baker: She's had one or two changes
Zureal: I was nice than I was going to be originally. When I first wrote the framework that has become this timeline 3105 was always the year that it was going to come to a head between the Mountain Wolves and Jade Falcons but originally I was going to decimate the Mountain Wolves in this conflict with them losing pretty much everything.
Unfortunately it also killed the Falcons and the more I looked at it I knew that wasn't the conflict I needed. Instead I bought Wars of Reaving and thought what if the Society won... what if the Inner Sphere Clans were the only ones left... which led to the changes in this timeline.
I then read through the DA novels and mixed with some of my own ideas from this evolving timeline I found a new path to the Mountain Wolves who are still a force to be reckoned with even if they are now a bit reduced in power.
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Mercenary Contact
Kwarmashu, Sian Commonality
Capellan Confederation
9th September 3105
After several years on the Clan Wolf border Daniel’s Avengers Mercenary Command accept a contract with the Capellan Confederation in hopes that it will give them time to rebuild. The Capellans employ the mercenaries in support of forces already on Kwarmashu helping secure the system for the Capellan Confederation.
Within the following week Iknogoro is also taken by the Capellans with the Daniel’s Avengers posted to defend both worlds. After the fighting against the Wolves the Daniel’s Avengers have been reduced to a reinforced combined-arms regiment and two reinforced BattleMech Battalions with both units upgraded with Clan salvage.
Subtlety (McKenna-class Battleship)
Nadir Point, Wasat
Star League Protectorate
15th September 3105
“Jump complete beginning scan” Commander America Park said from the sensors station glancing over at Captain Leroy-Dietrich who sat near the helm station. “All seems standard normal shipping traffic… hold that we’ve got incoming DropShips and they are launching aerospace fighters.” She said glancing at her sensors.
“How many contacts?”
“Three DropShips from a single Invader-class JumpShip” she reported “we’ve got nearly a dozen aerospace fighters deploying from them.”
“Communications give me direct contact” William Leroy-Dietrich said “helm accelerate to one G thrust. Launch defence fighters and order them to hold near the JumpShips protect our civilians.” He ordered thinking of the JumpShips which carried their dependents and the majority of the academies students. From under the Subtlety’s hull aerospace fighters dropped from their launch bays and turned towards the JumpShips behind the accelerating Battleship more aerospace fighters launched from the JumpShips. “This is Captain Leroy-Dietrich of the Subtlety we are passing through the Star League Protectorate on our way to Outreach. If you do not identify yourself and turn away from our position you will be considered hostile and will be subject to defensive fire.” He said cutting the link “weapons power up weapons on the port side bring them up slow we don’t want to short something after this long.” He said the Subtlety generally did not use her weapons systems, the Battleship didn’t need to use them, but the crews trained regularly and were ready to use them.
“No communications but we do have tracking systems” America Park said glancing at her fiancée she knew she shouldn't be worried about the fighters and DropShips but she didn’t like being attacked.
“Fine” Leroy-Dietrich said looking at the ship’s weapons systems seeing the most forward particle cannons on the port side of the ship were active. “Warning shot right across their course.” He said gritting his teeth seeing there wasn’t an option “fire” he ordered along the port side of the McKenna her long unused particle cannons activated filling the space between the WarShip and the incoming aerospace fighters and DropShips which continued towards them.
“No difference no communications” America said continuing to monitor the systems if they got too close the incoming DropShips and fighters could cause significant damage to the the Battleship.
“Helm turn us into a wide starboard turn keep us between them and our JumpShips” Leroy-Dietrich said “weapons as we turn I want you to bring up the starboard weapons we are going to give them a volley from each.” He said feeling the McKenna turn under them “accelerate to one-point-five G” he said watching the sensors. “Port side weapons target that Leopard CV first volley” he said watching them continue to close “and fire” he ordered the Subtlety’s weapons activated for a second time as the McKenna continued her turn. The naval particle cannons tore through space impacting with the incoming Leopard ripping the incoming DropShip to pieces.
“They are still coming” America Park said watching as the Union and Overlord-class DropShips and their fighters continued to close on them. “What are they trying to accomplish? This is a WarShip even if they get close enough to hurt us it will take shot they’ve got a week to break through our armour.”
“They’ve been put up to it.” Leroy-Dietrich said leaning into the turn as the Subtlety continued to move “someone wants us stopped by any means.”
“And it just happens when we arrive in the Protectorate?” She said glancing at him “coincidence?”
“Or someone wants us to think it is if the Star League wanted us dead where are their WarShips?” He said as the WarShip continued its turn “starboard weapons if they want it this badly let’s give it to them I want the Overlord gone.” He said glancing at the weapons station the officer nodded “and fire” he commanded the particle cannons activated together as one burning through the front of the Overlord melting its armour and tearing the larger DropShip to pieces.
“Aerospace fighters entering their weapons range and firing” America Park called out looking at the sensor data as the dozen aerospace fighters opened fire on them with lasers and missiles deep inside the ship America Park instinctively looked around her for a moment but there was no way she’d hear or feel the impacts from the fighters weapons.
“Bring up our fighters order them to remain in defensive formations and to fire in defence of us and of the JumpShips.” Leroy-Dietrich ordered watching the screens the McKenna’s own guns were not designed to engage Aerospace fighters “helm bring us around them again. Port weapons bays on the Union and get ready to drop a salvo on their Invader’s jumpsail rip it off” he commanded targeting JumpShips was taboo but he wanted those responsible to be held to account. The McKenna continued her turn as the enemy aerospace fighters continued to close firing as they came while the Subtlety’s own aerospace fighters moved in to defend the Battleship. Another salvo of particle cannons tore through the Union while their fighters continued to strike the McKenna. “Helm full roll to starboard” he ordered the Subtlety slowly rolled over onto its starboard side Leroy-Dietrich’s idea was to minimize the damage those aerospace fighters were doing to a single section of the Subtlety. “Weapons on the Invader.”
“Salvo outbound” the weapons officer Kiera Levine said the McKenna’s particle cannons crossed the distance between the two ships in moments striking the rear of the Invader and its jumpsail. The delicate jumpsail was ripped to pieces by the massive over sized naval particle cannons while the rear of the Invader disintegrated under the fire. “The JumpShip is crippled…” she said but after a moment the Invader exploded Leroy-Dietrich looked at her surprised “we didn’t hit anything critical the damage was superficial” she explained if a ship being hit by a particle cannon could ever be described as superficial.
“They didn’t want to be caught” Leroy-Dietrich noted as the Subtlety was hit by several of the aerospace fighters which had committed suicide runs against the battleship. “Increase speed full acceleration and continue the roll make us a hard target!” He said seeing the other fighters moving into positions where they could ram. “Direct our fighters against those birds!” He said pointing at the enemy fighters as the Subtlety began to pull away from them. The Subtlety’s aerospace fell on the now alone aerospace fighters rapidly destroying each of them clearing the area of hostiles.
Following the attack Captain Leroy-Dietrich reported the incident to the authorities on Wasat and to the Zenith Point Recharge Station. SLDF DropShips and investigation teams were onsite within hours from the space station while the SLS Republic arrived the following day. Copies of the Subtlety’s records were taken by the investigation teams and wreckage from the battle-site were also sampled by the SLDF after the briefest of investigations the Subtlety and her crew were cleared of all wrong doing and cleared for their jump to Outreach.
Democratic Elections
Lothario, Lothian League
Periphery
22nd September 3105
Following the assassination of Amanda Logan the Lothian League attempt to hold democratic elections Mistress Clarissa Logan enters as a candidate but the elections are frought with claims of corruption and ultimately the result is contested by multiple factions. The mercenaries hired to protect the Lothian League from external threats refuse to enforce marshal law as civilian unrest turns into fighting on several planets.
After Action Debriefing
Arcadia, Dixie Theatre
Halfway Province, Lyran Commonwealth
26th September 3105
“Gentlemen perhaps you can explain to me exactly what happened on this planet?” General Prudence Steiner said angrily looking at the two men who sat either side of the table staring at each other.
“We turned back a Wolf incursion against this world” Sang-shao Matt Blackledge said the commander of Blackledge’s Iron Fist Mercenary command sat his eyes not coming off Major Justin Rubinsky the commander of the Rubinsky’s Light Horse. “When this dog’s force arrived and attempted to claim out salvage.”
“We were securing the area for the Lyran Commonwealth” Justin Rubinsky answered his eyes not leaving the former Capellan Confederation officer. “There were still active Wolves in the area and as per our contract obligations the Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces gets first pick on all salvage.”
“A clause that is not in my unit’s contract” Matt Blackledge said seeing Rubinsky’s shock and anger glad that his unit had one up on the St Ives born man. “Following an incursion by a hostile force my people defended…”
“Murdered” Justin Rubinsky said inteupting
“Defended themselves and opened fire on the intruder’s lance.”
“You fired on a unit that was also under contract with the Lyran Commonwealth?” Prudence Steiner asked surprised at the man’s open admission. “And you” she said looking at Justin Rubinsky “you sent units into another mercenary command’s defence zone?” She asked pointing out Justin’s failings as well. “Gentlemen I know that your histories are mixed.” She said trying to being them together to her level “but you are not both mercenary commanders your past is exactly that the past.” Both men began to speak but Prudence raised to her feet looking at them “it is simple you are under the employ of House Steiner. Your mission is to support the goals of the Commonwealth. Major Rubinsky your unit is to load into your DropShips and prepare to move we’re taking you off the Wolf border.”
“Sir we can prove ourselves” Justin Rubinsky protested the change looking at Blackledge “we can even work with the Iron Fist I promise you.”
“And we can work with the Light Horse” Blackledge said deciding to offer Rubinsky a chance.
“That’s good to hear” Prudence said smiling “as between the two of you I want the Iron Fist and Light Horse to agree what salvage the Rubinsky’s Light Horse will take with them off Arcadia.” She said seeing Blackledge’s shock “there will still be plenty for your command.” She promised the Sang-shao.
“Where will we be heading?” Justin Rubinsky asked curious about his unit’s new posting.
“We are sending you to Clayborne II and from there you will monitor the situation in the Lothian League and follow the directions of your Steiner Liaison.” She explained the Light Horses integral transport making them the perfect unit for future operations that House Steiner could launch against the League.
“And my unit?” Sang-shao Blackledge asked annoyed that Rubinsky’s upstart command was getting an assignment that could see them leading an offensive while his command was stuck defending Arcadia.
“Your unit’s numbers and strength are better placed here on Arcadia holding the line against Clan Wolf.” Prudence Steiner said turning towards the door “now in your new spirit of cooperation I will leave you gentlemen to sort out the distribution of the salvage.” She said leaving the two mercenaries to complete their negotiations. Within hours the agreement had been made and the Light Horse had secured a couple of dozen clan tech weapons before they left Arcadia. It would take their techs weeks to fit to their current Mechs. And although the Iron Fist would continue to garrison the Wolf border and likely be in line to gain more salvage the mercenary command could also be destroyed by the Clan perhaps some distance between them and the Light Horse would not be a bad thing.
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Good update, the trials and tribulations of Subtlety and it's associated dependents is getting interesting, but they're almost to their destination.
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Good update, the trials and tribulations of Subtlety and it's associated dependents is getting interesting, but they're almost to their destination.
Not their final destination...
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Glad to hear they're going to live a while longer. O0
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someone made a mistake.... the SLDF intel is going to be looking for someone hard. that happened in there areas. intel groups do not like something happing in there house with out them knowing.
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You know the attack on the Subtlety reminds me of the "old school" Comstar and the Vandenberg White Wings. They were fully sheep dipped to make sure no one could ID who it was. And they offered no surrender nor from what I could see any comm traffic.
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Excellent update, and i've just had a thought.
With the Horses agreeing to attack the Lyrans, won't this sudden 2 year peace leave them flapping in the wind?
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The Horses have a more limited border with the Lyrans, and given the size of their touman they could make a fair bit of headway on their own - with reasonable losses - especially considering the damage done to the LAAF already by the Falcons. That the task group of the 5th is due to show up any time now may not make much of a difference based on the more limited front, though it could serve to shore up the defenses of Arcturus - which could very well be threatened here shortly.
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I'd say that the 5th's Taskforce could actually stop the Horses dead, because they lack one thing to successfully prosecute a campaign. They lack a navy, their fleet is dinky by the TL's standards and is full of simply obsolete ships, with their most numerous being 3 Lola III's. They want to attack a world, park a BB over it and go "Try it."
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Good point, for some reason I thought they had a Nightlord or a Texas.
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Speaking of Nightlords. Dragon Cat a question, Vition2 pointed this out in a discussion we was having. The Snow Raven has been under refit for about the last 6 years now. Is that just something you forgot to change or is the Raven Alliance doing something REALLY special to her to keep her in the yards for 6 years?
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She was getting an extensive rebuild of her systems (basically core up) but since the Raven navy hasn't been needed I've left it there my intention was to show that because it hasn't been needed it's taken far longer than needed
I was actually intending on adding a few ships under refit to the list for the Ravens especially. The reason being that these ships shouldn't be able to keep flying for decades without lots of maintenance and refit - would also let me tinker with the ships a little
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The Lyran's could give the 5th a hunting licence with no bag limit and just let them loose on Clan Hello Horses; entire Clusters could be destroyed or captured at a time >:D
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The Lyran's could give the 5th a hunting licence with no bag limit and just let them loose on Clan Hello Horses; entire Clusters could be destroyed or captured at a time >:D
Indeed, its what i'd do. One or two big losses and the Horses who are so reliant on jumpships would probably go "You know what..we are..busy..um...sorry we thought we left our ball in your back yard. Friends?"
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I wonder... If the ships of the 5th each carried a representative of Clan Mountain Lion, could any Hell's Horses personnel or equipment captured be seen as Isola? ???
Might be a way for the Lions to rebuild and the Davion to avoid any complications when it comes to Bondsman.
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I wonder... If the ships of the 5th each carried a representative of Clan Mountain Lion, could any Hell's Horses personnel or equipment captured be seen as Isola? ???
Might be a way for the Lions to rebuild and the Davion to avoid any complications when it comes to Bondsman.
Mountain Wolves and that's not a half bad idea... I'm not entirely sure if it would work but I think I might have just thought of a work around... ^-^
What the Lyran part of the 5th will be explained in the October update when I finish it. You might even get an insight into what might happen in the future on the Raven border...
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Mountain Wolves and that's not a half bad idea... I'm not entirely sure if it would work but I think I might have just thought of a work around... ^-^
What the Lyran part of the 5th will be explained in the October update when I finish it. You might even get an insight into what might happen in the future on the Raven border...
Sorry: could have sworn they changed their name to Mountain Lion. Have no idea why.
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A slip of the keyboard. ::)
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A 6 year long rebuild? She's going to emerge an entirely different beasty for sure! And I like the idea of the Bondsmen/Isorla being given over to the Mountain Wolves (although I like the Mountain Lion name :p).
If/when the Horses attack I think it will be a case of the initial attacks are successful purely through surprise and shock but when the 5th SAG arrives then they can stop their offensive dead because the Horses have nothing afloat that can challenge the Davion warships. On the ground they would probably be a terror to face as its a case of "These guys are not fighting by the usual Clan playbook." with their combined arms approach and love of things like artillery support and infantry/proto combos.
But they have no real naval strength and are reliant almost entirely on Jumper's to do all the troop hauling as most of their fleet can't even carry dropships, and the warships they do have are NO match at all for a Colombia class and her escorts.
The loss of a few clusters either as Isorla or being blasted from their dropships will probably make the Horses stop any plans for an attack because all you have to do is park a capital ship over a world and when they go "So...we can haz safcon?" Respond with "LOL NO!" and they'd literally be unable to do anything about it other than scowl and have to leave unless the commander on the scene though to try running the dropships past the Davion warship with the inevitable losses that will incur and affect the campaign on the ground.
This would probably then make the Horses sit down and go "We need something more than Lola III's...GUYYYYYYYYYYYS!" and make pawing motions at the shipyards at Tukkayid.
And now i'm also curious as to what shenanigans you've got planned along the Raven's border.
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Yeah, I'm calling dibs on Clan Mountain Lion: I have no idea if I'll ever use it, but it sounds cool 8)
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Looking at the Horses fleet they have the following
1 x Halycion class assault cruiser- well armed but still not a BB and would, along with the Marathons probably be hauling troops thus too valuable to risk loosing.
2 x Marathon class assault cruisers - Good and well armed designs but not capable of standing up to a Colombia
1 x Jade Lion - same as above, well armed, maybe if all 3 attacked as a group then they'd succeed but thats a major escalation for them.
1 x Congress - Basically obsolete and not of any use in a battle.
3 x Lola III - Same as above. The Lola's have no place in a battle save perhaps bullying smaller ships if they work as a squadron.
2 x Hakaze class escort DDs - not a clue what these are.
Whats the 5th SAG Consist of?
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Looking at the Horses fleet they have the following
...
Whats the 5th SAG Consist of?
I don't normally do this but I like hearing your theories and unfortunately this update will be at least a day away if not more... sorry
The Horses have what you listed
A single York-class Destroyer/Carrier
and built/acquired in the last 8 months
1 Jade Lion
1 Marathon
2 Halcyon
The Fifth Battle Group had (at the end of last year)
2 First Prince II
2 Avalon II
1 Whirlwind II
1 Davion III
But before they left Davion space they were supplemented by
a third Avalon II
and 2 Congress IIs
This force is designed to help both the Star League and Lyrans so roughly half of the command is going to each. I've been working on a separate piece for the Fifth because it's a new way of thinking for the Davion Naval arm (the ramming prows have been removed) :D hopefully that will be ready when the update is or just after.
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That's a very formidable force, and more really than the Horses could muster.
Assuming that it devides into two groups. with an as even as possible split, the Horses have a fairly small border with the lyrans. I think their first attacks would succeed because its an attack from an unexpected direction. But without the Falcons and their large fleet to act as a distraction there's not much stopping the 5th BG from splitting and going to the fronts. And there a lone Marathon or Halcyon simply can't las long against that firepower (to quote a tarp advertising fishman). And unlike Houses/Clans with bigger fleets the loss of a single warship is a MAJOR loss for the Horses as they simply can't replace it.
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And unlike Houses/Clans with bigger fleets the loss of a single warship is a MAJOR loss for the Horses as they simply can't replace it.
They do have a shipyard... Butler system it can build Halcyon and Marathon classes
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Oh aye, but with their fleet being so small, a loss of a modern capital ship would be a huge loss for them that could take a long time to replace. If they loose a Lola then oh well, she's basically obsolete and its not a major loss. A Marathon/Halcyon is basically like an SSBN, its a strategic and vital asset to the Clan that is basically irreplaceable in the short term and a loss of one means you're down a major modern ship (and dropship hauler) for at least 2 years.
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They do have a shipyard... Butler system it can build Halcyon and Marathon classes
What is the production time for warships classes?
Also how many production slips does the Butler yard have?
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What is the production time for warships classes?
Also how many production slips does the Butler yard have?
I'm not an expert but I've gone with
4-6 years for the Battle-cruiser - to build then get her out of trials
2-4 years for the cruiser - same finish then trials
They can be rushed but that tends to lead to problems which I've had once or twice before.
Butler has 3 slips all capable of building either class
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I'm not an expert but I've gone with
4-6 years for the Battle-cruiser - to build then get her out of trials
2-4 years for the cruiser - same finish then trials
They can be rushed but that tends to lead to problems which I've had once or twice before.
Butler has 3 slips all capable of building either class
Cheers, thanks.
One last question, are those slips building now and if so what are they building?
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Cheers, thanks.
One last question, are those slips building now and if so what are they building?
They've recently finished 1x Marathon and 2x Halcyon. One slip is building another Halcyon. While the other two are building JumpShips.
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Did ya see this by the way as a possible thing for the Ponies? - http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=54057.0
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They've recently finished 1x Marathon and 2x Halcyon. One slip is building another Halcyon. While the other two are building JumpShips.
Ah right so they are building standard Jumpships at the same site, didn't realise that.
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So I kind of did a comparison how things "by the numbers" could go down.
Davion Fleet (this is the upper end of what they are likely to have in the area, and very likely will have smaller)
1 First Prince II
2 Avalon II
1 Whirlwind II
2 Congress II
CHH Fleet
1 Jade Lion
1 Halcyon
2 Marathons
2 Hakaze (I guestimated that BN wanted this to have max armor based on what he wrote, meaning it has 125 in all armor facings)
In a straight up knockdown brawl, these two fleets end up matching pretty well, the Hell's Horses have an advantage in firepower (upwards of 25% greater), while the SLDF has an advantage in armor and structure of nearly the same degree. The rub here is that the Davion fleet has the ability to use Naval C3 on the First Prince II and the Whirlwind II (I didn't note it on any of the other classes, though there has been time to fit them if the Davion admiralty has decided to), considering this the Hell's Horses still have a firepower advantage, and the Whirlwind II has the least staying power of the Davion warships, and could very well be annihilated in short order by anything other than the Hakazes (which still have an advantage over the Whirlwind - they would just take longer to kill it). They have near parity in Aerospace fighters and Small Craft, the HH happen to have 10 ASF more than the Davions, and that's it, clan tech weaponry here would give an advantage to the HH, but it would fairly minor and the actual aerospace classes would be more important. Lastly, the number of dropship collars is also pretty even, with the Davions having only a single collar advantage - and this is one that can be made up pretty easily by any standard jumpship bringing in an extra dropship.
As I personally consider firepower to be a greater advantage than armor, I would have to say that overall, the Hell's Horses have a slight edge in this match up, but not one that is insurmountable, good tactics or bad luck could push the battle over the edge in the other direction. And the Horses don't really have the warships to spare, so their losses would be more heavily felt than the Davion losses (though Davion losses could lead to a political shakeup on their side of the Sphere - "We lost 6 warships for virtually NOTHING! Get the rest home NOW!").
As for how I would deal with the battlegroup's sudden appearance on my doorstep, I would attempt to lure them into a trap. The Falcons are going to be chafing at their 2 years without battle, and to somewhat appease that, the Horses could trap the Davion Force into attacking a Falcon holding and fighting against their warships. Other options include contracting a star of warships from the Ravens or Cats.
Edit: I should probably mention, I used damage at long range, it actually gets better for the HH if they get to medium by a couple percent.
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Doesn't the 5th have two battleships? And anything that the Lyran's and SLDF can rustle up.
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Doesn't the 5th have two battleships? And anything that the Lyran's and SLDF can rustle up.
Yes, but odds are (and it's been stated previously) that half the battlegroup will go to the SLDF's Wolf Front (the 5th was split into two task forces each led by one of the BBs). When doing the analysis I did err though, I thought I had remembered that the Whirlwind was part of the FSS Rehnart Stener's task force, and it's actually the Davion III-class FSS Zibler. That means that the naval C3 is out (at least on the official designs, though as mentioned, that could have been rectified), but potential damage increases if it gets to medium range (it remains pretty similar at long range) - it's not enough to overtake the HH's fleet but drops the percentage difference to less than 20%.
I specifically didn't include the LCAF's warship forces as I was just comparing the Davion task force to the HHs (I'll mention I also left out the York from the HH fleet), but they do have a number in the area, and at least 2 are Mjolnirs. Combining the two forces, the Horses' fleet would be annihilated, though it wouldn't be entirely bloodless on the other side though. And of course the is still talking about a straight up brawl, it's entirely possible that the Davion task force would have local superiority pretty much whenever it wants based on the idea that the HH fleet is not grouped together.
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Draw the Horses into a trap; they think they're attacking a lightly defended logistics Base, only for a First Prince II and a pair of Mjolnir's with cruiser support. Catch them too far into the gravity well to just jump back out, and politely ask for their surrender.
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JAB you really want to see your babies wipe out the HH.
I really feel sorry for the CHH when you finish with them.
At least for a few seconds. >:D
DC, a quick question for you.
Would the FS task force be allowed to do trials against the Falcons without breaking the truce.
Whittle down a BS or two. :D
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Draw the Horses into a trap; they think they're attacking a lightly defended logistics Base, only for a First Prince II and a pair of Mjolnir's with cruiser support. Catch them too far into the gravity well to just jump back out, and politely ask for their surrender.
So Gorash 7 then :p
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So Gorash 7 then :p
Hopefully with more salvage.
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So my update is delayed another day so quick answering of a couple of points
Did ya see this by the way as a possible thing for the Ponies? - http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=54057.0
I'll be using this a little bit in the next update and then extensively in a future update.
DC, a quick question for you.
Would the FS task force be allowed to do trials against the Falcons without breaking the truce.
Whittle down a BS or two. :D
If they turned up in Horse territory, and were hostile, then I guess fair game... just have to wait an see
As per the previous WarShip list update I've modded the Fifth Battle Group slightly - this includes which WarShips are working together for balance. AFFS, LCAF, Mountain Wolf and SLDF naval units will be working with each other if circumstances dictate.
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Khan’s Office, Clan Hall
Phillip Drummond City, New Barcella
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
1st October 3105
Khan Canin Rosse’s office was not a large or extravagant room but it served its purpose as a work space for the Khan while he was on New Barcella. He tried to spend as little time here since Yvonne’s passing but as Khan he had to come to the planet every now and then. Today was one of those days and he didn’t have to wait long to see the results the door opened and in walked saKhan Katrine Devalis. She was dressed in the Nova Cat leathers with the addition of a cloak lined in Nova Cat fur the cloak was a recent fad that was passing through the warrior caste and was more frequently in the Nova Cat Touman.
“Did your other saKhans enjoy a summons to the Khan’s office?” Katrine asked stopping short of his desk the younger woman taking a seat on a chair in front of him.
“Neg, but they did so with honour and grace” he said watching her reaction to his verbal barb “I did not realize that you had taken to wearing that” he said looking at the cloak which was draped over the chair.
“It was made by one of my warriors I honour his work by wearing it”
“Indeed” Canin said sitting back in his chair.
“It is not against regulations I do not see the harm quineg?”
“Neg” Canin admitted “it is just new.” He said standing from his chair “speaking of new things it is the reason for your ‘summons’” he said using her term for his request.
“I gathered that” she barely looked interested in what he had to say her lack of respect angered the Khan but he refused to bite to her tempting.
“I want our senior leadership to undertake a Vision Quest” he said seeing her suddenly sit up and take notice. “It is important to me that our Clan remembers its traditions even as it embraces new ones.” He said looking again at the cloak.
“I will ensure that all of our Galaxy Commanders are aware” she said almost jumping to her feet turning towards the door.
“That includes you.” Canin said watching her stop dead in her tracks turning slowly “I have never heard of you taking a quest.”
“I did once” she admitted “in 3091 shortly after your son’s death.” She explained the mention of Grayson Rosse pained the Khan but he suppressed the thought of it quickly refocusing on his saKhan’s back. “I thought the passing of my rival would spur a vision but it did not.” She said turning to face him.
“And you have never tried again?”
“Neg”
“But you continue to collect vineers quiaff?”
“Aff it is our tradition”
“As is visions” the Khan said
“You have enough of them for the both of us” she said referring to his multiple visions as she turned back towards the doors “I will look after our Touman you look after our visions.” She said taking another step.
“Neg!” Canin snapped “you will undertake a Rite of Vision”
“Aff I will once the Oathmaster returns from Tukayyid” she said nodding her agreement by then she hoped to be deep inside the Taurian Concordat causing trouble for their periphery neighbour.
“Neg you will do so now”
“I have no guide” she said beginning her defence but the Khan silently replied by spreading his arms “you?”
“As you said I have had plenty visions it is time I pass on that experience.”
“I was planning on leaving on a raid”
“It can wait.” The senior Khan said making it clear that his decision was made. “We leave tomorrow morning.”
“For where?”
“This continents mountain plains one of the few places our Clan has not touched in some way. There we will begin.”
Rite of Vision
Northern Mountains, New Barcella
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
4th October 3105
From New Barcella City the Khan and saKhan had been carried to the foot of one of the continents smaller mountains and there they had begun their ascent. The climb was not easy but then it wasn’t a great challenge for either of the warriors instead they soon reached a grassy plateau that overlooked the planets open plains and forests of New Barcella in the far distance Phillip Drummond City and the seaborne Borealis Facility glistened in the night. “This is the place?” Katrine Devalis asked looking around but not all that impressed.
“What do you think?” Canin Rosse asked remaining passive to the area allowing her to decide.
“It is fine” she said dumping her travel pack “we should set camp.”
“Neg, set a fire, we begin now”
“I have not slept properly in days” she complained
“Exactly continue” he said. Soon after Canin Rosse sat alongside her while Katrine looked into the flames. Slowly the saKhan sacrificed her vineers, souvenirs of her time as a Nova Cat warrior; Canin remained silent staring into the fire hoping to see something in the flames despite it being Katrine’s Rite of Vision.
For Katrine Devalis part she did not see the point of this her spirituality had never been a large part of her career she’d managed without one until now and risen to the second highest point in Clan Nova Cat. As she thought of her career a nova cat stepped out of of the darkness and snarled at her Canin Rosse did not react instead he continued to stare into the flames. The nova cat walked slowly around them she could feel it as the animal moved around her back she knew at any moment its poisonous mane could touch her back and she’d be on the ground defenceless. The nova cat continued around until it was facing her Khan and then in a moment it lept towards him Katrine jumped up to the Khan’s defence feeling the fire against her body as she leaned over it. Suddenly the Khan appeared to be standing beside her his hands on her arm where she had felt the fire “know your enemy” he said before he faded back to darkness.
“What the hell is this” she said out loud she felt sweat running down her body and she knew she was still in front of their camp fire but the Khan was gone the nova cat reappeared beside her and snarled before leaping into the darkness Katrine looked at the fire for a moment before following the cat.
The nova cat had quite a lead on Katrine but it wasn’t trying to get away from her suddenly another nova cat jumped out at the first one. The two cats circled each other for several moments each taking a swipe at each other the mountain beside them fell away revealing a huge chasm. The two nova cats continued to circle and and fight each other before they stopped and faced each other ‘her’ nova cat suddenly jumped into the darkness. “NO!” Katrine screamed leaping to the cat’s defence quickly following it over the edge.
Suddenly there was fire all around her and Katrine saw her nova cat dragging itself back to its feet moving around the fire as if on the hunt. From the sand a snake appeared hissing at the nova cat as it jumped through the air its mane standing on air its claws ready to strike a bird swooped down knocking the cat to the side defending the snake. Katrine tried to step between the bird and the injured cat but she couldn’t move as the flames intensified. The nova cat’s spirit seemed to rise from the animal ignoring the serpent and striking back at the bird knocking it to the side Katrine could see it lying dead in the sand. As the nova cat’s spirit turned towards the snake black wings seemed to grow from its back turning the animal into something new as it turned towards Katrine. Even as she studied the animal something even stranger happened from the cat a spirit figure emerged “what are you doing here?” She asked Grayson Rosse looking like he had before he was killed fighting the Capellans.
“Know your enemy” he said before disappearing into the darkness only to replaced by a snake and then Canin Rosse standing opposite her.
“Katrine!” He called out but Katrine only saw the snake and struck out. Canin Rosse was waiting for her move and easily blocked the blow moments late he blocked her second blow. “Katrine calm yourself” he commanded her instead of responding with a strike he blocked another of her blows. “Katrine!” Canin shouted a warning as he stepped back closer to the edge.
“No” she suddenly said realizing what she was doing “this isn’t right” she said stepping back giving Canin the room he needed “my Khan I apologies” she said remembering both Canin’s and Grayson’s words in her vision ‘know your enemy’ for the first time in a long time she did not see Canin Rosse as her enemy. "What the hell was that?!"
“You encountered a vision” he stated it was not a question he could see it in her eyes the revaluation that had come fro the flames. She simply nodded “you will not understand all the images of your dreams. But in time they will become clear.” He promised her Canin said Katrine began to speak but found her mouth dry instead she reached for a water bottle and drank nearly half of it.
“It was so real” she whispered looking at the Khan. “I felt and smelt it” she said “it was like it all happened in front of my eyes…” she raised her left arm “I was burned” she said looking at the perfectly healthy skin covering her arm “I never realized…” she said looking at the Khan smirking more to herself than him “I saw…”
“Be careful with who you tell of your vision” the Khan said raising his hand to forestall her explanation for a moment “it may be personal to you or it may affect all of our Clan. Who you tell may make a difference to how that person acts in the future.”
“But I must tell someone” Katrine said “and you are my guide…”
“Then I will listen” Canin said sitting back from the fire.
“I saw nova cats fighting” she said piecing the vision together “but then they realized their error and stopped.” She said thinking it over realizing that it could have represented her and the Khan. “Then I saw a serpent ready to strike the nova cat. It turned and replied attacking the serpent knocking it to the side but before it could land a killing blow a bird struck the cat.” She explained “I couldn’t move but the cat was not done it rose to its feet ignoring the ailing serpent it struck down the bird.” She said
“Was that it all?” Canin asked sensing that there may be more to it.
“Aff” she said closing her eyes for a moment instantly seeing the strange cat-bird creature and Grayson Rosse’s face ‘know your enemy’ “there was nothing else.”
“What do you think it means?” Canin asked
“It could mean there are still Serpents out there” she said referring to the Clan based faction “or it could refer to the Combine. A dragon is a type of serpent.”
“And the bird?”
“It could be the Free Worlds League, the Jade Falcons or the Snow Ravens.”
“And given our position what is most likely?” He asked her
“The Ravens” Katrine said “I know what I need to do” she said ‘know your enemy’ “I need to strike the Draconis Combine.”
“And if the Ravens interfere?”
“Then I know my path is the correct one.” Katrine said
“And you said that your nova cat was knocked down and that the cat’s spirit carried the day. Are you willing to follow your vision to death?”
“I am” she admitted for the first time willing to follow a vision, her vision, to death. She closed her eyes for a moment instantly seeing the cat-bird figure and hearing the worlds ‘know your enemy’ she quietly wondered if she’d ever shake the vision from her thoughts.
Thirty-third Star League Games
Solaris City, Solaris VII
Star League Protectorate
14th October 3105
For a second year in a row Clan Wolf dominate the Solaris Games on Solaris VII with several Wolf Tomahawk OmniMechs dominating the games. Star Captain Beckham Kerensky from the 328th Assault Cluster, piloting one of the Tomahawks, fights off challenges from all others to become the new Star League Champion.
Almost as soon as the battle for the Championship is over another riot begins on Solaris. Unlike the previous year Star League Peacekeeper forces and the Clan Wolf unit on planet are ready for the riot. Specially trained units comprised of BattleMechs, combat vehicles and battle amour units are deployed to contain threats before they become to dangerous using overwhelming firepower to intimidate the worse offenders. For less troublesome enemies Constable, PAB-2B Sniper, Tornado and Nighthawk Power Armour suits are deployed by both forces in an attempt to minimize casualties.
Raging Bull (Marathon-class Battle-cruiser)
Summit, Arcturus Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
18th October 3105
Despite the Jade Falcon decision to accept the peace with the Lyran Commonwealth the Hell’s Horses were still attempting to pursue their invasion of House Steiner’s realm. Targeting the systems of Kandersteg, Summit and Grundwald the Hell’s Horses had dedicated several of their latest WarShips, DropShips and Horde Clusters to the invasion. Star Commodore Thanos Hovan stood in the command centre of the Raging Bull as they approached the system’s inhabited planet all around Arcadia, Outpost Defender and even two new Ordun-class DropShips moved the two clusters of ground forces towards the planet while the Lola III-class Destroyers Space Hunter and Gold Knight provided perimeter escort the Hell’s Horses forces there was simply too much invested in this assault for them not to be present. There was a radiation surge at the jump point as their JumpShips jumped to the system’s pirate point ensuring no Lyran WarShip would get the jump on their forces. Moments after the JumpShips had jumped there was another series of surges at the jump point “Aft sensors!” Hovan commanded looking at the screens.
“Star Commodore we read five WarShips all bearing Federated Suns markings!” Anabelle reported from the sensor station.
“Federated Suns?” Hovan asked confused “confirm that!” He demanded it must be wrong the Federated Suns was thousands of light years from here.
“Confirmed all five of them they are deploying assault DropShips and turning to face us.”
“Intercept time!” He demanded
“If they use maximum thrust they can intercept us before we reach the planet.” She said confirming what his mental calculations suggested. There were too many Hell’s Horses in this system and they were too badly outgunned by that naval firepower. “Have Gold Knight and Space Hunter fall to the rear of the formation along with our Defenders, Arcadias and Aerospace fighters they will be our screen.” He commanded he knew the decision would not be popular but they did not have a choice even the Raging Bull carried ground forces which couldn’t be risked. “Have the Arcadia’s cargo configured for space combat they are going to be needed.” He said watching the Federated Suns WarShips turn in their direction and accelerate after them. “Helm push our speed, communications inform the JumpShips that when we arrive the Orduns must dock as quickly as possible. We dock what we can and we escape.”
For the next fourteen hours they continued towards the pirate point while the Inner Sphere WarShips continued to chase them down. The Gold Knight and Space Hunter were the first to turn their hulls towards the incoming targets neither of the ships began decelerating, they would wait until the last moment, soon after the Arcadia’s matched their pace as did the Defenders. “Status” Hovan called out as he re-entered the command centre he had tried to sleep but failed.
“Forward combat elements of the Davion fleet have entered weapons range with the Gold Knight and Space Hunter” Misha reported from the weapons station “neither side have scored decisive damage on the other.”
“Both Arcadia’s have begun aggressive deceleration as have the Defenders” Nolan said from the helm “our turn is coming.”
“All hands this is the command centre prepare for aggressive deceleration and combat maneuvers.” Hovan said moving to his own acceleration couch, no-one wanted to be standing when the WarShip began its combat maneuvers. “Weapons as soon as you have a solution fire, don’t wait for my command” he instructed Misha who nodded her understanding.
“Sir, request from ground forces commander, if we get close enough the Horde want to be released to attack the enemy.”
“I will keep that under advisement but make them aware we do not plan on letting them get that close.” He said looking at the clock “helm throw the switch!” He commanded bracing for the maneuver. ‘Throwing the switch’ was a term used on ships to address a space going vessel’s method of rapid deceleration while they could slowly bleed off speed and coast to a stop which was more comfortable, safer and cost less fuel it was also too slow during combat. Instead space going vessels turned their nose against the direction they were travelling and fired their engines at full thrust.
In space the Raging Bull’s nose slowly ‘rose’ as the ship began to pivot along its direction of travel behind the vessel the two Lola III-class Destroyers and four DropShips which had already turned were engaging the Federated Suns forward elements that consisted of two destroyers, half a dozen DropShips and over a hundred aerospace fighters. These units alone would cause the Hell’s Horses forces trouble.
“Sir, Gold Knight is being engaged by capital missiles from the DropShips and both enemy Destroyers are closing range” Misha said “engaging FSS Zibler with naval gauss rifles” she said as the Davion III moved into extreme range. The Raging Bull’s massive Repeating Naval Gauss Rifles opened up on the distant enemy destroyer Hovan was glad to see some hits on the ship but nothing that would seriously worry the Federated Suns vessel as it closed on the Gold Knight.
“Hold it together Mike” Hovan said watching as the contacts closed the FSS Zibler seemed to pass close to the Gold Knight while the FSS Fire Fang which held off at distance. Both Federated Suns Destroyers turned away from the Gold Knight while the Gold Knight continued on its course which now appearing to be a ballistic one. “Status on Gold Knight?”
“We’ve lost communications with her” Misha said looking at her screens “Space Hunter is continuing pursuit” she said as the Space Hunter passed over Gold Knight’s position continuing to fire on the two retreating AFFS Destroyers. Suddenly the Raging Bull’s sensors registered nearly a dozen capital missile hits across the side of the Gold Knight.
“How did they hit them from that range?” Hovan asked more to himself than anything else as he watched the Space Hunter list heavily to her starboard side even as she continued to fire on the FSS Zibler.
“We are reading heavy communication traffic between the Federated Suns ships” Misha reported.
“Nolan pass to all of our DropShips and aerospace fighters to break off and fall back immediately!” Hovan ordered realizing what he was seeing “Space Hunter, this is Raging Bull, the Federated Suns ships are using C3 systems break off your pursuit and make way to join us. We need to engage them all at once to minimize the advantage.” He commanded but the message had been sent too late to make a difference as another volley of capital missiles and naval weapons tore into the second Lola III. The destroyer already damaged took heavy hits along its mid-line and aft sections as capital missiles fired from the two Avalon II-class Cruisers tore open the ship’s hull to space. The Space Hunter continued on its course its thrusters heavily damaged by the hits.
“Sir we are at the jump point” Anabelle said
“Complete deceleration” Hovan ordered keying a switch on his command chair “all hands prepare for immediate docking and jump procedures. Weapons if any of those ships come back into range I want to know immediately” he said looking at the Space Hunter which now had stopped trying to make a turn and instead was continuing to fire on enemy vessels from a now fixed course. “Communications put me on general communication channel.” He said Misha nodded “this is Star Commodore Thanos Hovan of Clan Hell’s Horses commander of the Raging Bull to Federated Suns Flotilla at this time and date I am ordering the commander of the Space Hunter and all aerospace fighters and DropShips unable to rejoin our fleet to surrender. You won this round you won’t win the next.” He said cutting the channel “continue our docking procedures and prepare to jump from the system.” He commanded watching the screens carefully the Space Hunter and other forces too damaged to retreat slowly signaled their surrender as all six Davion WarShips moved closer Hovan prayed that the Federated Suns forces would accept his people and not blast them from space.
Across the system on board the FSS Reinhart Steiner standing in the ship’s command centre Admiral Alexander Duvall smiled on hearing the message from the Horses commander. “Status on the Horses ships Mr Anderson?”
“Sir, the Battle-cruiser and JumpShips are continuing to dock fighters and DropShips. The first Lola III designated Gold Knight is adrift with minimal power. Second Lola III designated Space Hunter is also adrift and signalling surrender. One Outpost-class DropShip is completely destroyed. Second Outpost-class DropShip has shut down engines and is signalling surrender. Two Arcadia-class vessels have powered down and surrendered. There is fighting continuing on the hull of the FSS FSS Zibler between defenders of the ship and a small number of ProtoMechs and Battle Armour troopers. Several aerospace fighters have also surrendered.”
“A nice catch” Duvall noted “direct Fifty-first Strike Wing to the FSS Zibler set a perimeter the Fifty-first are only to engage units they can hit without damaging the FSS Zibler. Captain McLintock can you bring us closer to the FSS Zibler and prepare our marines for a boarding action we’ll convince them to stand down.” He ordered the ship’s commander Captain James McLintock “and sensors continue to monitor the Raging Bull.” He said “Communications I want you to direct the FSS Fire Fang, FSS Melissa Davion II and the FSS Jackson Davion to set up between us and Raging Bull Fire Fang to take operational command while we assist Zibler.” The FSS Reinhart Steiner moved closer to the Destroyer which occasionally rolled along its axis in an attempt to knock the invaders off into space. “Let me talk to them” Duvall commanded the communications officer nodded a moment later. “Hell’s Horses ground forces your commander has commanded your surrender I am willing to accept it, none of you will be harmed and will be accepted as prisoners of war.”
“Neg, you will accept us as Bondsmen or we will die before surrendering to you. Give us a chance to become warriors again.” One of the Horses said from the FSS Zibler’s hull. Admiral Duvall had argued this point before accepting this assignment but his commanders had assured him that the Clansmen would not surrender and that it would not be a problem. He knew the Lyran Commonwealth would want to claim these warriors and their equipment which would probably cause another problem. “And another thing we will be surrendering to you not the Lyrans or the dezgra Wolves. You defeated us in battle not them.” The warrior said as if reading Duvall’s mind. The Admiral thought for several seconds it would be easier for him to deploy his Battle Armour Marine Battalion and wipe them out but he knew that it would see more damage done to the FSS Zibler that they didn’t need not did his command need a reputation for slaughtering those who could have surrendered.
“Screw it” he said signalling to the communications officer “Hell’s Horses I am Admiral Alexander Duvall I will accept your surrender as Bondsmen to the Federated Suns. You will be put on-board a Transport DropShip and taken along with your equipment to the Federated Suns where, if you prove your loyalty, you may become warriors in the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns.” He said cutting the link on the screen several units immediately signaled their surrender while others soon followed suit. Captain McLintock crossed over standing beside him.
“Sir, the Lyrans are going to go nuts at this…” he noted Duvall nodded “there are ProtoMechs out there we don’t have a clue where to start maintaining them while the Lyrans could use the tech to help rebuild some of their units. Not to mention the DropShips and Lola III.”
“I know” Duvall snapped worse than he’d meant to “sorry Jim” he said a moment later catching himself “I wasn’t going to wipe them out. We will make do this time and the next time we will be prepared.” He said “the Lyrans can be happy with the Gold Knight” he noted.
“She’s a wreck” McLintock said looking at the screens “if the jump drive isn’t damaged they might be able to make her airtight and jump her to Alarion or the Ruins.” He said as he looked over the ship the Lola would probably need years of repairs to get her back operational. The Space Hunter would probably need the same although the damage to the ship was concentrated at the rear of the ship and might be easier to repair.
“Captain, prepare boarding teams to go on board the Space Hunter and the DropShips and secure them minimal armaments these people have surrendered to us. Have any surrendered Aerospace Fighters dock with their motherships or in absence of those craft dock with one of our carrier DropShips. I also want an update from the FSS Zibler and FSS Fire Fang on their damage and estimated repair times.” He commanded the younger man turning operational command over to the WarShip’s commander. “I’m going to try and draft a report to the First Prince and the Lyran Archon.” He said heading for the Command Centre’s exit hearing the WarShip’s commander wish him luck as he left.
Subtlety (McKenna-class Battleship)
Nadir Point, Outreach
Star League Protectorate
22nd October 3105
The Subtlety entered the Outreach system’s Nadir Point with a flash of light arriving in the point at the outer edge of the jump area. “We are being challenged by the Athena” Veronica Wilson said looking at Captain Leroy-Dietrich.
“Put it up” he said
“This is the Wolf’s Dragoons WarShip Athena to unidenfitied McKenna-class vessel. Identify yourself or prepare to be subject to defensive fire.” Leroy-Dietrich nodded to Wilson who activated their transceiver system.
“This is Captain William Leroy-Dietrich of the Subtlety my ship has no business with Outreach but I wish to travel to the planet for personal business.” He said clearing his throat.
“Outreach is under the protection of the Wolf’s Dragoons all trade must be done through the Dragoons or the Star League Defence Force.” The Athena’s communications person replied “any mercenary business must go through the Wolf’s Dragoons.”
“I am a son of Outreach my business is my own, son, now I want clearance for a single DropShip to travel to the planet’s surface then I and a small party will depart the DropShip and see to some personal business and then we will leave Outreach.” Leroy-Dietrich said the line abruptly closed off and was silent for several minutes.
“Subtlety a single DropShip is authorized to travel to the planet” the Athena’s officer said.
Four days later the Subtlety’s Leopard-class DropShip arrived at Outreach and was escorted to the planet by Wolf’s Dragoons aerospace fighters. Ever since the ‘Riot of 3067’ the Wolf’s Dragoons had limited access to the world in an effort to protect its population but it had also slowed their rebuilding of the planet. Even with Star League Protectorate membership Outreach still bore the marks of the battle that claimed the life of General Jamie Wolf. As the ground car left the Leopard Captain William Leroy-Dietrich thought about when he’d first chosen to become a mercenary he’d grown up with stories of the Wolf’s Dragoons victories and watched as the Regiments prepared for battle there was nothing the Dragoons could not do but joining the famed mercenary band was never part of his plan. Instead Leroy-Dietrich had always wanted to join a small company and head into the periphery exploring the great unknown beyond the Inner Sphere before he had left he’d met her, Lorna Raphael-Ferguson, the lady of his dreams. A pilot like him they’d battled their way through the training centres on and around Outreach and within six months they had been married joined the same mercenary command, the Fifteenth Exploration Squadron, and headed into the periphery. They’d been happy for nearly ten years exploring the periphery looking for hidden Rim Worlds Republic bases before Lorna’s fighter had experienced a problem on a search patrol. For nearly an hour he had listened to her fighter slowly die around her as it fell into the atmosphere of a gas giant and there was nothing he could do about it. Orbiting over the planet William Leroy-Dietrich had been tempted to roll his fighter and dive into the atmosphere and follow her but he knew that Lorna would have never forgiven him for such an act.
Looking across at America Park today he was glad he hadn’t dove his fighter into the gas giant that day but returning to Outreach had brought it all back. Slowly the car moved through the City of Harlech until it reached the ruined MRBC Headquarters, the place that he and Lorna had met, William Leroy-Dietrich followed by America Park stepped out of the car and looked at the ruined building. “They’ve let the place go to hell” he said looking at the ruins they were taped off by the Dragoons and they looked like they had not been worked on for years.
“I’m surprised the Dragoons have let it lay like this” America said looking at the massive building that was left to ruin.
“It’s a memorial” Leroy-Dietrich said ripping the tape open stepping onto the grounds. He walked over to the steps that led up to the main doors and bent down placing a Captain’s rank insignia on the steps along with the Fifteenth’s badge. He didn’t have anything else of her that he wanted to leave behind “my love I might have found new love and new purpose but I have never forgotten you and never will” he said quietly looking down at the two insignia and up at the ruin. “This was where it all started and I would do it all over again” he said “I miss you” he said a tear running down his cheek “but you’re home now and I can’t stay here any longer.” He said rising back to his feet “I’ll see you again” he promised her turning heading back to America and the waiting car. Eight hours later their DropShip, now fully refueled and supplied, left Outreach and began heading back towards the Subtlety nearly four days later the Battleship left the system heading towards Galatea Station intent on never returning to Outreach.
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Nice update! A good haul for the AFFS!
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Nice update.
The FS finds another way to annoy the Lyrans accidentally. O0
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Excellent update :) I'm surprised that Canin went on a Vision quest, and the Vision itself was most interesting. Indicative of Raven/Dragon/Cat fighting for sure but why?
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Intense update, i'm impressed with the Nova Cat entry of your story. I though Canin was going to be challenged for control of Clan Nova Cat. SaKhan jump at attacking Combine and Ravens seems bit crazy thou. Know your Enemy, but more importantly i think, is know yourself.
Sun's help with the Hell's Horses was pretty nice fight. Hope someone will get Space Hunter working again. Maybe named its original Star League name. ;D
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All Space Hunter needs is a little duct tape, some super glue and several tons of armor. Piece of cake. ;)
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Very nice update DC, I'm glad to see the Ravens may actually be starting to become active again, though this does make me a bit nervous:
striking back at the bird knocking it to the side Katrine could see it lying dead in the sand. As the nova cat’s spirit turned towards the snake black wings seemed to grow from its back turning the animal into something new
Quite a few ways to interpret that though, so I'm very much looking forward to seeing what actually happens.
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So Captain William Leroy-Dietrich from Outreach and was part of an explorer group on on the Rim.. more and more interesting
And then he got ambushed by "ghost raiders" who committed sucide instead of being captured, in a system that had been WOB.
This is going to be a good story
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It must be tough for him to operate full armed and operational Battleship with like no support. Usually combat ships have support units, like cargo ships or repair tenders..never mind escorts. They need keep supplied to keep going.
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Know your Enemy, but more importantly i think, is know yourself
That's quite good
All Space Hunter needs is a little duct tape, some super glue and several tons of armor. Piece of cake. ;)
Well... put it this way she needs less work than the Gold Knight
Quite a few ways to interpret that though, so I'm very much looking forward to seeing what actually happens.
Quite a few ways
This is going to be a good story
Thanks if anyone fancies playing about with the story before they arrived in the Inner Sphere feel free.
It must be tough for him to operate full armed and operational Battleship with like no support. Usually combat ships have support units, like cargo ships or repair tenders..never mind escorts. They need keep supplied to keep going.
Not quite fully operational and not quite completely unsupported please see below:
The Subtlety Profitable College of Military Arts
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=54275.new#new (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=54275.new#new)
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Thank you for the back story on the fabled ship! It was very subtle. ;)
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Shadow Guard Command
Shasta, District of Marik
Free Worlds League
3rd November 3105
The Commander of the Wolf’s Dragoons General Sean Dorran surveyed the scene inside the Shadow Guard’s command base as the techs of the mercenary regiment stripped damaged weapons off of their units and worked their way through the salvage they had taken after a four day battle. The Shadow Guard had served the Free Worlds League well over during the fighting impressing the Dragoons command, in front of him was an equally impressive vehicle a Teppo Support Vehicle, where the Shadow Guard had acquired the Teppo and learned how to fight the way they did was beyond Dorran.
Walking past two troopers dressed in Longius Battle Armour Dorran entered the Shadow Guard’s command vehicle heading into the command room seeing Colonel Tim Storm going over the reports. “Welcome aboard General” the old man said extending his hand which Dorran shook.
“Thank you Colonel” Dorran said looking around it was the first time he’d been in a Teppo and he found them quite spacious inside. He’d already witnessed the Teppo’s command and artillery support capabilities over the last days of fighting. “You fought well your people should be very proud.”
“I am very proud of them” Storm said studying the General “how can we help you?”
“I’d like to make you an offer Colonel” Dorran offered Storm nodded for him to continue “you captured a significant amount of salvage from the Wolves Nineteenth Striker Cluster.” Dorran began along lines that Storm had expected “Clan technology is expensive to maintain. My Dragoons are not the force they once were but we have lots of expertise in maintaining the technology.”
“We can learn to look after it” Storm said wanting to see how far Dorran would go.
“Aff I’m certain you would” Dorran said sure that the Storm Guard could adapt to the new technology. “However I have a counter offer for you my Dragoons will transfer to you a significant quantity of upto date Inner Sphere technology in exchange for your Clan technology.”
“A significant offer” Storm admitted with it he could probably raise a fourth Mech Battalion and maybe more. “But I have a counter proposal General” Storm said he was happy to get rid of the damaged Clan tech but he wanted more off the Dragoons than standard tech for the salvage. “We’ll take a number of Inner Sphere Mechs equal to the base value of the salvage we’re giving you” he said which for anyone would be a complete bargain. Even taking a lower amount of Mechs the Shadow Guard would end up in front overall once they counted out losses from the battle. “And we’ll take training from your Dragoons.”
“Training? Colonel from what I saw on the battlefield your people do not need training they are very competent in battle.”
“It’s not my ground forces I need help with it’s my naval personnel” he said testing the waters but Dorran gave nothing away if the Dragoons knew of his WarShip this one wasn’t letting that out. “We have a League-class Destroyer which we’ve salvaged and slowly repaired with the Free Worlds League’s assistance she’s almost ready to go back into service but my crew have been trained on DropShips and JumpShips a destroyer is a completely different animal.”
“The Free Worlds League could help you with that…” Dorran pointed out wondering why Storm had turned to the Dragoons for this help “my Dragoons have not trained others since the troubles on Outreach it is something in our past.”
“It may be in your past but it’s the price for this salvage” Storm said “and if I read you correctly General you want this salvage so you can continue to rebuild Delta Regiment.” He said pushing what he knew of the Wolf’s Dragoons.
“You are well informed” Sean Dorran said smiling at Storm using the knowledge he had at the right time. The Dragoons used to be like that opportunistic ready to pounce on a battle or on a piece of information without hesitation but they’d lost that somewhere. “You have a deal. I’ll have my people travel here and then on with your people to your base of operations. I will be sending a security force with my people” he warned the commander of the Shadow Guard.
“I would expect nothing less General but your people will be treated as my personal guests I assure you.” He promised the other mercenary extending his hand.
“To the beginning of a profitable relationship for both of our commands” Sean Dorran said shaking Tim Storm’s hand.
Circle of Equals, Ebon Guard Command
City of Andrey, Tukayyid
Clan Territory
11th November 3105
In a Circle of Equals Star Colonel Thomas Ward, commander of the Second Ebon Guard Cluster, challenges and defeats the Loremaster of the Clans Miguel Icaza over a disagreement regarding the treatment of the lower castes on Tukayyid. Until now the position had been filled by a Loremaster or Oathmaster from one of the remaining Clans but because Ward defeated Icaza in single combat the Star Colonel claims the position for himself stating that if the Clans wish to replace him they will have to defeat him in battle.
Like many warriors of the Ebon Guard Thomas Ward is older than the traditional Clan warrior. He was born in 3063 on Tamar to Clan Wolf and has served with the Ebon Guard since it was formed in 3090. Unlike many other Clan warriors who have transferred to the Ebon Guard Thomas Ward continues to wear a standard Clan Wolf uniform which is adorned with both Clan Wolf and Ebon Guard insignia.
Civil Conflict
Lothian League, Periphery
20th November 3105
The Lothian League falls into Civil War after weeks of unrest and disagreement on who should take control over the nation. Open fighting only occurs on a few worlds but the Lyran Commonwealth are fast to capitalize on the nation’s failure moving on Thadora’s Land, Blanteff, Zorns Keep and Maxmillian. Without leadership from Lothario the mercenaries hired to defend these planets do not resist the Lyrans instead agreeing to surrender in exchange for transport to Galatea Station classing their contracts null and void.
On Maxmillian and Blantleff the Lyran Commonwealth and the District of Gibraltar come into conflict as both nations attempt to claim the planets. With the Rubinsky’s Light Horse Mercenary Command fighting against the Eighth Tamarind Militia Combined-arms Regiment on Maxmillian. After three months of cat-and-mouse fighting the Eighth withdraw from the planet leaving Maxmillian and Blandeff to the Lyran Commonwealth.
At the otherside of the Lothian League the Marian Hegemony strike at Paulinus but are unable to claim the Lothian world having to retreat after a few days fighting against the Gamma Twelve mercenary command.
Clan Wolf Territory
Solaris VII, Star League Protectorate
30th November 3105
Since coming to Solaris VII the Wolves had been attacked by the stables who called Solaris Home in the arena and on the streets. Today was another of those days several of the stables had decided that Clan Wolf’s time on Solaris needed to come to an end. Preidictibly the SLDF Peacekeepers on the planet were out of position to stop the stables so now Clan Wolf would reply. Recently crowned champion of the Star League Games Star Captain Beckham Kerensky breathed heavily as he turned his damaged Tomahawk II OmniMech towards the incoming enemy Mech. “We have Jade Falcons of the Zellbrigen Stable on the field” he said looking at sensor readout on the Kraken XR as its autocannons barked to life ripping into the left hand side of his OmniMehch’s armour.
“Kill them” Star Colonel Ivan Ward his commander and another winner of the Star League Games commanded.
“Aff” Beckham replied triggering both of his shotgun-type autocannons ripping open the side of the Kraken. Moments later he triggered both of his OmniMech’s pulse lasers and the extended range large laser under the cockpit burning down the side of the Kraken as it turned. The Kraken XR reeled under the hits but its laser reflective armour protecting it from most of the damage. Long range missies and autocannons flew between the two Mechs as the Kraken returned fire. Beckham Kerensky loved since Mech combat and against a Mech of equal size he’d have his work cut out. Dancing his massive one hundred ton OmniMech to the right the Wolf warrior opened up with another paired autocannon blast ripping into the enemy assault BattleMech. The Kraken returned fire causing more damage with its autocannons and laser. Beckham opened up with his Mech’s lasers again and again seeing little damage “stavag laser reflective armour!” he snapped angrily “let’s see you absorb this” he said stomping his OmniMech forward at nearly fifty-four kilometres per hour closing the gap between the two huge Mechs rapidly ducking his Mech’s right shoulder as he approached Beckham Kerensky intentionally broke Clan duelling rules by slamming his Tomahawk II into the Kraken staggering the Jade Falcon BattleMech backwards. As the Kraken stepped back he fired both LB-autocannons and his quartet of anti-personnel gauss rifles ripping open the Kraken’s armour. The rotary autocannons of the Jade Falcon BattleMech spat to life again tearing into the Tomahawk’s armour as the warrior held down on the triggers until the inevitable happened one of the cannons jammed. Beckham stepped forwards again ignoring the damage firing his autocannons and AP gauss again chipping away at the armour before kicking out at the Kraken smashing the Mech’s right knee actuator forcing the Kraken back again. Both of the Kraken’s missile launchers came alive at near point blank range tearing into the Tomahawk causing heavy torso and head armour damage. As the cockpit bounced about from the massive hit Beckham Kerensky’s head slammed into one of the overhead screens giving the Kraken some breathing space and time to pull back surprisingly the Kraken didn’t open up on Beckham’s Tomahawk instead continuing to pull back.
“Take a breath, take stock, and here we go” Beckham Kerensky said ignoring his head injury moving forwards the Kraken turned towards him as he closed opening fire with both of his autocannons Kerensky realized the warrior had spend the moment to clear the jammed rotary and cursed giving the warrior that time as the autocannons opened new holes in the Tomahawk’s armour. “No breaks this time” he promised his enemy charging forward firing his autocannons and AP gauss again concentrating on the crippled right knee. Kerensky was happy to see the armour give way exposing the remains of the structure triggering his large pulse and extended range lasers he aimed holes created by his autocannons blowing the limb completely off the BattleMech. The Kraken was unable to stand as the right leg snapped under the weight of the BattleMech and began to fall Beckham Kerensky followed the Kraken down firing his weapons into the falling Mech shattering the Mech’s torso and head armour killing the warrior underneath. This was his second kill of the day but it would not be the last scanning the area nearby Kerensky saw markers for the other Mechs of his Star and moved to join them.
Several hours later Star Colonel Ivan Ward sat opposite Colonel Waleed Barkawi the commander of the First Solaris Security Regiment of the Star League Defence Force. “Colonel with two Regiments of Star League Defence Force personnel on this planet you were still unable to stop heavy damage being done to the Wolf forces on planet.”
“We were deployed to another disturbance at the south of the city.” Barkawi replied visibly annoyed by the lapse in security “this was a distraction intent on keeping us busy. They must have taken months if not years to plan this assault.”
“One consolation is we were able to destroy the Jade Falcons on the planet.” Ivan Ward said
“As long as your people remain on this planet there will be trouble…” Barkawi began before Ward interrupted.
“If you wish us to flood Solaris with troops and turn the streets into a bloodbath then we will but Clan Wolf is not leaving this planet.”
“I did not think so” Barakawi said looking Ward up and down “what I meant was your forces on planet simply increase the tensions on this planet. Your continued dominance of the games is another issue.”
“Because we are better than the other warriors on planet it causes problems? I am sure there are others who have dominated Solaris previously Quiaff?”
“Yes but generally they were not state based. The Lyrans have always held a home advantage but the others have been able to bring them down which has kept the people content.”
“We have not had the same successes in the regular championship. The people should be glad that Clan Wolf has not tried to dominate all of the games on Solaris VII.” The Wolf warrior stated “I suggest that Clan Wolf be allowed to take a more active roll in the security of Solaris VII and allowed to arrest those we class as threats.”
“That is not happening not while we remain on this planet” Barkawi stated “which brings us back to turning the streets of Solaris into a bloodbath.”
“There is another way.” Ward suggested “Solaris ceases to be a protectorate of the Star League but does not become a world of Clan Wolf.” He said rising up from his chair “instead a joint SLDF and Clan Wolf force is formed to defend Solaris from all enemies foreign and domestic.”
“Commanded by? SLDF troopers will not fight their superiors to gain command” Barkawi stated “nor is Solaris likely to take well to a Clan officer in command of Wolf units that have sole responsibility for protecting this system. People will not feel comfortable with Wolf forces in charge of security on this planet.”
“It does not have to be purely a Wolf and SLDF force we could include elements of all of the Clans make the defence of Solaris a multinational force.” Ward suggested “the Ebon Guard on Tukayyid is made up of warriors from all of the Clans. Your Star League Defence Force is made up of elements of all of the Star League’s member states. Between the two we can form a force that will defend Solaris VII independent of the Clans and of the Inner Sphere create an open system for all if you will.”
“Like Tukayyid? But that remains a closed system correct?” Barkawi said challenging Ward’s idea that Solaris would remain an open system.
“Then we open Tukayyid to visitors” Ward suggested “with restrictions of course” he said thinking that he didn’t want masses of Inner Sphere people wandering around the Clan capital. “Unfortunately we cannot have SLDF units on Tuakkyid that is a compromise we are not willing to make.”
“I am open to your plan but I will need conformation from the Star League Council and my superiors.”
“Aff I will need conformation from the Loremaster of the Clans and likely the Clan Council as well especially for Tukayyid.” Ward said as Barkawi rose from his seat offering Ward his hand which the Clan Star Colonel shook.
It would take a further three months for the Star League Defence Force and Clan Council to secure an agreement over the future of Solaris VII with Colonel Waleed Barkawi confirmed as the first commander of the Solaris Security Command. With a united command on Solaris and surrounding each facility on the planet, including Clan Wolf’s facilities, the tensions on the planet continued to simmer but were no longer at the stage of open fighting. An agreement was made between the Star League Defence Force and Clans for traders to be allowed access to Tukayyid to openly trade with the Clans although with great restrictions placed on visitors to the planet including that no-one is welcome within the grounds of the City of Andrey.
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Good deal for the Shadow Guard, not sure the Solaris VII idea will work out for the best in the long run.
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Great update as always! The Solaris guard could be interesting and odd that there's a 'liberal' who cares for the lower castes acting as Loremaster of the Clans and as an aged warrior too. With someone like this in an a very high ranking position could do some interesting stuff.
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Good deal for the Shadow Guard, not sure the Solaris VII idea will work out for the best in the long run.
Maybe, maybe not, it was that or I turn Solaris into a battlefield or a conquered Wolf planet which I wasn't completely ready for just yet.
Great update as always! The Solaris guard could be interesting and odd that there's a 'liberal' who cares for the lower castes acting as Loremaster of the Clans and as an aged warrior too. With someone like this in an a very high ranking position could do some interesting stuff.
Not quite a lower caste acting as Loremaster of the Clans. He's a Trueborn Bloodnamed MechWarrior that carries a lot of sway even with age.
My thanks to Vition2 for help in bringing the Hyades-class Corvette to life.
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=54308.msg1251412#msg1251412 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=54308.msg1251412#msg1251412)
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I know very little about warship design but for a first attempt at building a vessel by the Taurian's in centuries it looks quite good.
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I know very little about warship design but for a first attempt at building a vessel by the Taurian's in centuries it looks quite good.
For it's size it is kind of a beast, but most of the weapons are very short ranged compared to more modern warships. One particularly interesting thing about it is that although it has the armor fairly typical of a corvette or destroyer, there's a pretty good chance it'll be able to limp back to a shipyard given the strength of its structure. (a side-effect of DC saying the equivalent of "moar armor... NO! I said MOAR!" lol)
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She's a lovely little brawler and to me it screams heavy escort/raider. Those massed sub-capital weapons would be nasty against fighters and dropships as well as a dire threat to jumpships.
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Time to finally end 3105. My thanks to marauder648 for the help with the Hell's Horses AFFS fight as I had severe writers block trying to write the piece.
Duke of Saffel Residence
Saffel, Alya Prefecture
District of Dieron, Draconis Combine
4th December 3105
As the Duke of Saffel Dean Singer entered his office within his official residence he knew there was something wrong. There had been people against his appointment to the leadership of Saffel but the danger had never felt so closer. Dean Singer reached for the light switch to his office and it was the last thing he did. Moments later the office, along with the one time Duke of Saffel, was incinerated by an explosion which took out that half of the residence killing fourteen others who were in the building.
With emergency services charging to assist their Duke his personal BattleMech a customized Huron Warrior imported from the Capellan Confederation, at great cost to Singer and the people of Saffel, exited the residence’s reinforced Mechbay firing its silver bullet gauss rifle and pulse laser into the emergency services as he escaped into the night.
Days later the assassin and thief was identified as small time crook Bobby Winchester a known gun and drug runner but someone who had to date never resorted to violence. With the Duke murdered, the leader of the local constabulary and the head of the planetary militia killed in the attack no-one is able to asset control over the planetary government before several transport ships leave the system including one carrying Bobby Winchester and the stolen Huron Warrior. In an effort to support the planetary government Dieron dispatch the Sixteenth District of Dieron Regulars, a green unit, off of Dieron to bring order to Saffel.
Planning Rooms, Celestial Palace
Forbidden City, Sian
Sian Commonality, Capellan Confederation
14th December 3105
The Celestial Wisdom Chancellor Dao Shen-Liao stood listening to his advisers the war against Oriente continued well with attacks on Pella II, Shuen Wan and Anegasaki the Confederation’s goal now clear to Oriente under the Celestial Wisdom’s Banner like Andurien before it. “Our forces are rolling back Oriente defenders even with their Orbital Defence Guns.” Sang-jiang-jun Erin Liao, the Chancellor’s wife, said leading the briefing. “Naval and ground forces from both nations have sparred in the Pella II system. Our naval forces have destroyed the OPS Fletcher in that system but the Fourth Oriente Hussars continues to resist on the planets surface…” she said pausing as a young officer entered nervously she turned to the Chancellor. “Sire, the Santorini Battle Group have been spotted…”
“Excellent where?” The Chancellor demanded the Santorini Battle Group was home to Oriente’s only Thera-class Carrier to kill it had been the Chancellor’s goal for years.
“Over Sarna” she reported seeing Dao-Shen’s rage rising “it appears that they crossed the border at Sakhalin and quickly moved on Sarna they have also struck at Quemoy.” She said reading the briefing. “Oriente has called for our withdrawal from their territory or they will destroy our WarShips and our ground forces on the Sarna Supremacy worlds” she said.
“They cannot hope to take and hold Sarna while we will be on Oriente in weeks.” Dao-Shen Liao stated confidently.
“If the rest of the Free Worlds League joins with Oriente we will lose all of the Sarna Commonality” she warned. “Davion will not sit on his throne and watch as Oriente take our territory. Without Sarna to administer and control its Commonality we will lose the territory completely.” She said continuing her warning.
“We will not surrender!” Dao-Shen Liao snapped “order our forces to dig into their positions on Sarna and prepare the invasion of Oriente!” He said turning leaving the planning room to Sang-jiang-jun Erin Liao and her commanders. As Sian refuses to surrender the District of Oriente land ground forces on Sarna while naval and ground forces from both sides engage each other in multiple systems setting the border between these nations on fire.
Liberation
Grundwald, Hell’s Horses Occupation Zone
30th December 3105
With the FSS Zibler still under repairs in the Summit system the Federated Suns navy units in conjunction with the Lyran Commonwealth military moved on Grundwald and Borghese. While the Borghese system had surprisingly fallen easily to the Lyran forces in the Grundwald system they had found a Halcyon-class Cruiser and an elite cluster of ground forces. With the Lyran Commonwealth’s LCS Typhoon, a Mjolnir-class Battlecruiser, beside them escorting the AFFS units it was time to engage the Hell’s Horses. In the FSS Reinhart Steiner’s command centre Admiral Alexander Duvall glanced over at their guest and nodded for her to continue. “This is Star Colonel Amanda Leroux to defending forces I challenge for control over this system for Clan Mountain Wolf and the Lyran Commonwealth.” She said confidently Duvall had to admit when she had come on board she had not liked the Wolf warrior but she and the others from her Clan who were on board had adjusted well to the structure on board the FSS Reinhart Steiner.
“Wolf you are on a Federated Suns WarShip do not attempt to fool us.”
“You will see that this vessel and the others with it are identified as Lyran Commonwealth vessels. I am a Mountain Wolf Cluster commander and I am fully in control of this battle.” She said turning to the air-boss “deploy aerospace fighters on all vessels. Order our DropShips to assume combat formations.” She said from the belly of the FSS Reinhart Steiner aerospace fighters with AFFS, Mountain Wolf and Lyran Commonwealth insignia launched from the craft. Several of the Federated Suns aerospace fighters had been replaced with those from Clan Mountain Wolf as had several of their DropShips. “As you can see my forces are my own.”
“You will accept a Batchall Quiaff?” The warrior asked a single Halcyon-class Cruiser and support DropShips would not be enough to turn back the assault forces against them.
“Aff” Amanda Leroux said carefully intent on not drawing the Inner Sphere forces under her command into a Clan bidding war.
“I bid a single Halcyon-class Cruiser, four DropShips, their attached support units and the First Horde Cluster to the defence of this system.” The Hell’s Horses commander responded a couple of moments later.
“I respond with a single Avalon II-class Cruiser, its support craft and the First Commonwealth Guards Regiment to capture this system. I will not be hobbling my forces further with a smaller bid.”
“Well bargained and done” the Horses commander said surprisingly quickly without even a single barb about the lack of a smaller bid.
“Contact the FSS Jackson Davion and Star Captain Rygard Carns” Amanda Leroux commanded moments later there was a connection between the two WarShips. “Star Captain your vessel and crew will lead the battle into this system.” She said as per the Lyran, Federated Suns and Mountain Wolf agreement there were Mountain Wolf warriors embedded on board every WarShip, DropShip, fighter squadron and ground force battalion. In each communication with the defenders of the systems the Mountain Wolves would lead meaning that any challenge came from the Mountain Wolves and every captured unit would go to the Mountain Wolf Clan helping rebuild it. Amanda Leroux was sure that both the Federated Suns and Lyran Commonwealth would end up with at least some of the salvage but the Mountain Wolves would gain the first choice and the best of their captures.
With the FSS Jackson Davion and her escorts moving away from the AFFS fleet the Avalon II class cruiser began launching her fighters as did her escort group. The three escorting Pocket Warships moved forwards at high speed, trying to close the range.
“Sir we’re getting a good clean data-link between all elements. ID scans show a pair of Outpost Defenders, one Titan and an Arcadia running escort, the cruiser the CHH Nightmare's Edge is at the centre of their formation following at 600 km distance.”
“Time to intercept?”
“At current speed, thirty minutes.”
Aboard the Titan class Carrier Bon Homme Richard it was as scene of organised chaos on her forward hangar bay. Under way there was gravity and this made life easier for the tech’s as they hauled weapon pods and linkages from their magazine elevators.
“Technician Jones, I do not care if the ghost of the Great Father himself appeared and bid you to halt, you WILL get my Star’s fighters reequipped before launch.”
The Technician, a long standing member of the Richards crew knew how to deal with arsey aerospace pilots; he had been doing it for twenty years.
“My men are trying their best, but we only have enough weapon pods to rearm six of your craft! The remainder will have to go into battle in the Charlie configuration.”
“Explain why.”
‘Because we were not expecting you do to anything more than be a ****** shuttle for Elementals you arrogant ass.’ Is what Jones wanted to say, instead he gestured to the row of tiger stripe painted Kirghiz fighters that aerotechs were swarming over whilst exoskeletons helped with the heavy loading. “Simple logistics and the operational role of Lightning Star prior to the deployment in system. We are trying our best, I can give you two Primes, two Deltas, one Bravo and an Echo but the rest will have to go out as Charlies. Is that acceptable Quiaff?
“Aff” Inwardly Star Captain James Hawker growled, instead he just nodded. After arriving in orbit his Star had been acting as a quick deployment force, carrying Elementals from point to point at the beck and call of the Horde, demeaning but important work. Now with half stores aboard there simply wasn't the equipment to fully arm ten of the big fighters.
“Very good Star Captain, now can you please get out of the bloody way whilst we sort your fighter out. She will be an Echo and neg you do not get a say in the matter.”
FSS Jackson Davion
“Hostiles are launching fighters. Visigoths from the Outposts, they are forming up into a Star. Another ten from the cruiser, Titan is launching now Sirs. Reading…One star of Sulla’s one Star of hrm…Tyre’s and..shise..one of Kirghiz Sir”
On the holographic displays the Clan ships and fighters took position, the Titan hanging well back, she was no warship and despite its great size, was achingly vulnerable, the two Outposts and the Arcadia though were coming forwards along with every fighter the Horses had. It was no ill-disciplined rush either, they were keeping close together, their fire lanes overlapping.
“Sensors what are those launching from the cruiser?”
“Pelican class shuttles sir…damn that’s a lot of them…count is 18..22..28..30!”
Captain Leonard Kyle glanced at his Mountain Wolf companion “The Pelican is an assault shuttle and primary mover; they can carry Elementals but they are not built for breaching operations.”
“How many Elementals?”
“Twenty five depending on weight of course. Twenty-five standard suits.”
“And you say they’ve no mag clamps?”
“Aff, they could deposit troops on the hull but they cannot lock onto us and cut their way inside.”
“CAG! Keep an eye on those damn shuttles; I don’t fancy getting boarded today.”
“Roger that Sir.”
“Sir! We are within range and have a good feed from our escorts.”
“Very good. Guns, target the cruiser, she’s the threat, have our escorts engage their DropShips and fighters. That Kirghiz Star’s a priority target.”
The ships fighters were all brand new, the Admiralty wanted to put their best in combat and test them, and a mixture of Corsair 12D’s and Cutlasses formed her air group, but still it was 32 fighters against 50.
A dozen affirmatives rang out before the Jackson Davion shuddered slightly as her guns and missiles began their firing sequences. Guided by the Naval C3 her guns were tracking the Clan cruiser as it lumbered forwards behind its escorts. It seems the Clanners knew about the C3 on the Suns warships, they were all moving forwards, even the cruiser was at a full 1.5g burn her gauss rifles spitting in the dark. But at this range and with C3’s inherent advantages the Federated Suns cruiser scored the first hits as a pair of NAC rounds detonated on impact with the Clanner’s hull. The Avalon’s missiles were having a harder time though, only one got through the barrage of AMS fire and her flak belt as the Clan cruisers shorter ranged guns also engaged the inbound missiles.
“Enemy forces are continuing to close Sir.”
“Good, Helm! Bring us to Red 119, down 15. Guns fire as you bare!”
As the Jackson Davion began her turn to Starboard the CHH Nightmare’s Edge kept on charging forwards. The Halcyon was taking hits but her thick armour was absorbing them for now whilst giving back as best she could against her bigger and faster opponent.
CHH Nightmare's Edge
Gripping the arms of his chair as the Edge rocked from another hit, this one further along her dorsal hull, Star Commodore Karina Dwelley grinned “Release the hounds! Have Stalker flight follow them in!”
On the holo-display the fighter brawl was a confused tangle of signals as the fighters threw themselves into the battle against their opposite numbers. The Arcadia Gravewalker was the biggest return amongst the melee, her commander Star Captain Tara Bolt throwing the assault ship around with all the skill and grace she and her crew were renowned for. Still it was a tough fight, the three Federated Suns assault ships were big and shockingly well-armed. They were also feeding data to the cruiser and she was taking full advantage of that and her gunners knew their business. Still her surprise should stop that. The Pelican’s surged forwards, ECM’s going live in an overlapping barrier of howling and more importantly concentrated electronic noise, thrusters blazing as they opened the throttle and charged. Not all of the shuttles were carrying Elementals, most were down on the world below but still the 75 on-board the Nightmare’s Edge were more than willing to attempt a boarding action.
FSS Jackson Davion
“Sir! We’re being jammed!”
“What? What the hell’s going on!”
“Not our systems but the C3’s lousy with interference. Attempting to re-establish links now Sir!”
“Assault shuttles inbound!”
“Sir! It’s those shuttles! They are jamming the link between us and our escorts.”
“Helm! Continue the turn, increase thrust. All hands stand by for heavy thrust. Helm put our stern to them, Guns! Target those damn shuttles with the missiles.”
On the holo-display the Clan ship was starting a turn even as one of her Outposts burst apart, gutted by the guns of the Stalwart, but the Clanner fighters were everywhere, his Air group was holding its own but they were outnumbered and unable to break off, when they did, more Clanner’s jumped onto them after waiting and with a wedge of assault shuttles charging on in with the risk of up to 750 Elementals being carried it was just a risk that could not be born. The Jackson Davion’s engines flared to life as she slewed to her new course, pulling ahead of the slower Nightmare’s Edge. She was fast. The Pelicans were faster.
Even as their WarShip ‘mother’ was embattled the Suns cruiser’s escort group were finally overcoming their foes. The Arondight class was built for this kind of battle, a freewheeling brawl and their cannons were spitting as fast as they reloaded, heavy armour taking fire despite repeated attack runs from the Horse fighters. With one Outpost down and the other bleeding air from a 20-meter crater in her side from an internal explosion the Federated Suns Pocket Warships turned their guns on the flank of the Nightmare’s Edge even as the Clan ship fired into the Jackson Davion’s stern.
Not every Pelican carried Elementals, and the Jackson’s anti-fighter defences were filling space around the cruiser with a blizzard of Gauss shards, missiles and pulses of laser light, swatting them from space in short lived puffs of flame and spinning debris. But enough got close to deposit their cargo across the upper hull of the Federated Suns cruiser. Of course such a manoeuvre was not without risk, disembark too quick and the suits mag boots might not grip and you’d be sent spinning away from the rapidly maneuvering cruiser with no hope of rescue. This happened to eight Elementals, whilst another two didn’t even leave the hull, one hit too hard and shattered his knees and was immediately WIA, the other got hopelessly wedged as he bounced along the hull between the main hull and a radiator vane. The sixty-five surviving Elementals had been spread liberally over the dorsal section of the Jackson Davion the assault far from coordinated. This made things easier for the Jackson’s defending Marines but the Clanners were ALL in Gnome battle armour which despite its age was still a deeply formidable design.
With the Suns cruiser turning to bring her vulnerable stern out of the fire the Nightmare’s Edge was pouring into it the two cruisers were getting into a more traditional broadside battle, hammering one another with every weapon at their disposal. It was as much a battle of wills as a battle of endurance. But with her hull battered and air bleeding from a dozen gashes in her flank and spine the Nightmare started to turn away first, cutting thrust, letting the Davion ship pull ahead, the range opening rapidly.
“Stalkers! This is Stalker lead, anyone still with me?”
“Aff, Stalkers seven, eight and two!”
“Good! The Edge cannot take much more, we will attack the cruiser’s stern. If we can damage her engines then the Edge will be able to withdraw.”
All four remaining Kirghiz were in a bad way, but they were still armed and flying, their Tyre escorts having suffered heavily trying to cover them from the faster and very agile Davion fighters. The alert receiver on Hawker’s fighter blared as the Jackson Davion’s gunners locked onto the new threat even as the Pelican's wheeled overhead, strafing ineffectually at her hull with their missiles.
The four assault fighters bore in, their pilots jinking and throwing their 100 tonne craft around, jammers trying to throw off the cruisers gunners even as they were fired upon.
Stalker Eight erupted into a fireball as a Barracuda missile slammed into its belly; Two was bisected by a concentrated blast of laser fire before they got through the main flak belt. Near wingtip to wingtip the two Kirghiz opened fire as one. Hawker’s HAG-40’s spraying clouds of hyper-velocity slugs over the Jackson’s stern.
FSS Jackson Davion
“Sir! The jamming’s gone! Link re-established!”
“Finish that Clanner bastard off now!” Hard a port!”
There was a flash as something was hit. White vapour started pouring from a breech on the Jackson’s stern. Hawker spotted it, but so too did the cruiser’s engineering detachment. It was fuel, the cruiser’s semi-modular fuel tanks had taken a hit and it was leaving a trail of rapidly expanding frozen hydrogen slush behind them. The leaking tank was jettisoned a moment later and it was already several hundred meters astern and under the Jackson when the inevitable happened. A particle bolt passed through the Hydrogen and it ignited in what could be called a deflagration. The difference between a deflagration and explosion is that the former is a rapid burn. In this case along the trail left by the fuel tank, following it to its source.
Even as the Nightmare’s Edge finally succumbed to the relentless pounding of the Jackson’s guns the Federated Suns ship was suddenly ‘kicked’ from behind as a tank with nearly 800 tonnes of fuel in it exploded just behind her. The blast threw the ships stern up and her bow down, one engine smashed by the sudden blast, its vents wrecked whilst the blast was still close enough to act like a sub-kiloton explosion melting and burning parts of the hull, the energy of the explosion also sending a heavy shock through the cruisers hull which threw crew against the hull and knocked systems out of alignment.
Further astern the Nightmare’s Edge was tumbling to port, bleeding air as her thrusters fired to try keep her upright whilst her crew abandoned ship. Her back was broken, her armour punctured whilst internal fires raged along her starboard hull section. Of her fighter group, eighteen would survive to pull back, leaving no Davion survivors. The crippled Arcadia Gravewalker was barely active, held together by the efforts of her crew and what little armour remained along her hull. Only the Bon Homme Richard was undamaged, the Titan hanging back the entire time, only moving forwards now to pick up escape pods and lifeboats.
Aboard the Jackson Davion her crew began the serious task of saving the ship. With one primary thruster down and with shock damage across the ship as well as having a badly battered hull the cruiser was in a serious way, if not at risk of being lost. The Clan borders had been met and there was still fighting along the upper hull. Some Elemental’s had forced their way inside and caused considerable damage before being contained and eliminated. Only when the Nightmare’s Edge erupted in a ball of light as her fires finally reached her magazines did the survivors finally surrender and accept being made Bondsmen.
Space belonged to the Allied forces but it had come at a heavy cost. All thirty-four fighters were gone, although eighteen pilots had managed to eject safely and were recovered. The Arondight class dropship Fire and the Flame was so badly damaged that she had to be abandoned and scuttled, whilst the other two were mauled and could barely dock for repairs themselves. The Jackson Davion herself had taken moderate damage but her engines had taken a heavy amount of damage and the shock damage had in the words of her chief engineer “Utterly frakked the jump drive. At least for a while anyhow.” Until it was repaired and precision calibration carried out, the Jackson Davion was going nowhere.
Ground Battle
Grunwald, Hell’s Horses Occupation Zone
30th December 3105
From space to the ground the First Commonwealth Guards Regiment dropped through the sky towards the ground. The regiment was actually more like a reinforced combined-arms force with five battalions of forces between their combined units. The Lyran forces despite having the upper hand in space knew that they would be facing a tough ground battle and immediately this became clear as capital missiles rose from the surface striking towards their DropShips. The Lyrans defence systems activated but they were not enough to stop the incoming missiles and several DropShips took heavy damage as they came into land. Fortunately the Lyrans had been ready for this attack and the crews had prepared their vessels for heavy combat taking every precaution. As the Lyran DropShips landed Lyran BattleMechs charged from the DropShips firing on the Horses who were arrayed against them between Lyran BattleMechs and vehicles were others carrying Clan Mountain Wolf’s insignia carrying on the same trend used against the Hell’s Horses in space.
Surrounding the Lyran Commonwealth landing zones were warriors of Clan Hell’s Horses who filled the air with weapons fire tearing into the Inner Sphere forces while artillery missiles slammed into their BattleMechs and DropShips. From above Lyran and Mountain Wolf aerospace forces now dominated the skies but on the ground the fast moving Hell’s Horses forces were continuing to fight hard causing casualties in the Commonwealth Guards.
With continous aerospace fighter attacks and as more Lyrans and Mountain Wolves deployed into the warzone the Hell’s Horses were slowly overwhelmed by the firepower being brought onto them. Lyran aerospace fighter attacks also quickly located and neutralized the Hell’s Horses DropShips crippling their ability to maintain their units and eliminating their ability to withdraw from the planet. Within hours the Horde Cluster’s ability to fight had been diminished by lack of ammunition and supplies forcing the Horses to withdraw across the planet while being constantly harried by aerospace fighters and fast moving BattleMech forces. By the end of the third day the remaining two trinaries of the First Horde Cluster surrendered to the Mountain Wolf commander the remaining warriors taken as bondsmen to that Clan while the salvage was split evenly between the Lyrans and Wolves.
With the FSS Jackson Davion crippled in the system victory on the ground goes a long way towards justifying the FSN’s presence in the system. With the FSS Zibler under orders to return to the Federated Suns for extensive repairs the FSS Intrepid, a repair ship, and the FSS New Avalon, a Whirlwind II-class Destroyer are ordered to rendezvous in the Tikonov and then head to the Lyran Commonwealth to support the remaining units.
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Current active WarShips and Units
One thing I've noticed (and really should have looked at previously) just because a WarShip is in a system with a shipyard it doesn't mean it is being refitted just that it's currently based there. ie the Snow Raven. She's based in a system with a shipyard not she's been in refit all the time (yes she had some work done but not a huge refit) I knew there was something wrong with that but I answered before away from my stuff so the answer was off.
EDIT: Small thing on the Unit's document Clan Nova Cat's Upsilon Galaxy should read in the Posting section "Periphery"
End of 3105 Map
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/dragon-cat-collection/3081-map/15/#lastPost (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/dragon-cat-collection/3081-map/15/#lastPost)
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O0 nice update!
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Great update Dragon Cat and ya charmer, I only did the naval part, you did the rest and it is glorious!
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Like the Hells Horses battle well done. O0
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Good stuff! :D Love the maps :)
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That was great!
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Cracking end to the year.
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3106
Nova Cat Border Raid
Multan, Kandahar Prefecture
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
4th January 3106
The Trial of Possession for Multan had began well the Draconis Combine commander of the Sixth Pesht Regulars Regiment had accepted the Nova Cat Batchall bidding their entire combined-arms regiment Katrine Devalis had bid a single Supernova from her Upsilon Keshik and the three trinaries of the 450th Assault Cluster both of the saKhan’s Upsilon Galaxy.
The Nova Cat forces had split in half Katrine leading Upsilon Keshik and half of the 450th force to the east of the Sixth while the other half of the 450th force had moved around the west side of the Pesht Regulars catching the Combine unit in a pincer movement. Katrine sat in her Deimos Assault OmniMech watching the battle unfold in front of her. The Sixth Pesht Regulars were not ready for the engagement and her half of the defenders were already caving under the pressure of her assault. “Continue forward. Star Colonel Sheldon Rosse we are driving them towards you.” She said moving her OmniMech over the frozen terrain. Why humanity had ever come to this frozen world was beyond her it lacked any sufficiently sized slopes for recreation, there were now massive mining operations that her people had detected and the cold temperatures made it hard to grow crops. It was like this world had been colonized purely to see how long it would take for it to kill the planetary population but humanity as stubborn as it was had refused to give up on the planet.
“Aff saKhan we have detected forces on our flanks but none have entered weapons range.”
“Strange the Sixth appeared to be holding together in a single formation” she said moving her eighty-five ton OmniMech forwards towards the retreating enemy forces.
“Aff we believed that to be the case saKhan but we have detected multiple units moving along our flank. We are engaging remaining Sixth Pesht units.” He said replying as his units merged with the Sixth on Katrine’s long range sensors.
“Keshik move forwards the Sixth have already broken Zellbrigen so you do not need to pick targets let’s eliminate them.” She commanded moving her OmniMech forwards. Suddenly up ahead Katrine watched as several of the 450th’s unit markers disappeared. “Star Colonel Rosse report” she demanded not understanding how the units could have been destroyed so quickly by a defeated enemy.
“We’ve been attacked by an unidentified force which do not have Sixth Pesht markings” he reported moments later adding “they include a Deimos OmniMech.”
“Deimos” Katrine Devalis repeated almost turning the OmniMech’s name into a curse only the Snow Ravens fielded multiple Deimos type OmniMech’s. “Keshik units accelerate your speed.” She commanded engaging the OmniMech’s MASC system carefully moving faster over the frozen icy terrain. The Assault OmniMech soon entered maximum range of the 450th Assault Cluster’s units and she saw additional OmnIMechs and BattleMechs all wearing the the insignia of Clan Snow Raven mixing freely with the Sixth Pesht Regular units attacking the remaining 450th units. “Dezgra” Katrine stated aiming her OmniMech’s two Extended Range Large Lasers firing them into an enemy Omen BattleMech. “This is Katrine Devalis saKhan of Clan Nova Cat to Snow Raven units you have interfered with a Trial of Possession as a result I declare this Trial void.” She said angrily “saKhan Katrine Devalis to 450th I call in the remains of the Cluster hot-drop on top of the Sixth Pesht’s positions target all enemies.” She ordered moving her Mech forward gaining a lock on the Omen for a second time this time engaging with twin Streak Long Range Missile Launchers sending forty long range missiles into the Snow Raven BattleMech.
In the skies above a Nova Cat Vanguard-class DropShip dived over the area opening fire on the area with particle canons, missiles, gauss rifles and lasers as BattleMechs, Battle Armour and ProtoMechs deployed from the DropShip right on top of the Snow Raven/DCMS forces. Katrine Devalis pushed her Deimos forwards maintaining her speed as she fired her Mech’s lasers and torso mounted rotary autocannon as fast as the weapons cycled tearing into the Omen ahead of her. The Snow Raven BattleMech turned to fire on her but was hit by a gauss rifle slug fired from a fast moving Shadow Cat OmniMech knocking its advanced tactical missiles off their target. As the missiles exploded all around Katrine’s OmniMech she pushed forward cutting to the right as her lasers cored their way through the enemy assault Mech’s armour and into its internal structure. The Omen pilot was not giving up as Katrine circled her enemy the pilot opened fire with its autocannon and pulse lasers burning several gashes in the Deimos left leg and lower left torso. Katrine kept her OmniMech moving twisting the Deimos’ torso to keep her weapons on the target the autocannon ground to a halt jammed from its constant use but her missiles screamed a “locked” tone and she unleashed another volley of long range missiles into the target causing a wave of explosions over the enemy BattleMech’s torso as the missiles overwhelmed the Omen’s anti-missile defence system. The Snow Raven Omen staggered backwards under the damage that Katrine had done straight into five Elementals who leapt up onto the Assault BattleMech swarming the target Katrine hated turning the kill over to the Power Armoured Infantry but their attack gave her the time needed to fall back, clear the jam on her autocannon and take stock of the battle.
What she saw despised her, the Draconis Combine unit had been completely destroyed by the Nova Cat attack even with the Snow Raven interference but now her units were being cut up by the increasing amount of Snow Raven units. It seemed there were far more Ravens on this planet than she’d originally thought. A notification activated on her OmniMech’s main screen which she looked at directly and blinked twice moments later her communication system activated. “saKhan this is Star Admiral Eric Bavros we have detected jump signatures incoming at the Zenith point we believe there are vessels preparing to enter the system.”
“How many?” She asked to commander of the Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser Santin West.
“We believe at least four vessels. We are planning to be ready to engage them.” He said they had five combat vessels in his WarShip Star and a single Bug Eye-class Scout vessel and could take care of most threats leveled against them but Katrine did not need a naval confrontation right now.
“Negative Admiral keep your vessels out of combat we will be leaving the planet’s surface soon. Prepare all ships to leave the system when we return. Only engage enemy WarShips if you are threatened or engaged by enemy vessels.” She commanded thinking of her vision. She had attacked the Serpent and now the bird had attacked the Cat. It was time to strike down the Raven. She thought ‘remember your enemy’ she thought remember Grayson Rosse’s words thinking them over the Raven had turned themselves into her enemy by striking at her command now. She knew her vision was a true approximation of what was going to happen but it didn’t explain why the Ravens were helping the Serpent or what the winged cat was. She closed off the Admiral’s communication link before he could speak again then switched over to her remaining forces “this is saKhan Katrine Devalis to all Nova Cat forces, fall back to our landing zones, we are surrendering the field of battle.” She commanded there would be protests from Nova Cats who thought they could defeat the Ravens here and now but she didn’t care she wanted to hurt the Ravens far more than destroying the forces here on a nothing Combine planet.
With the Nova Cats falling back attempting to disengage the Snow Raven force did not pursue them towards their DropShips instead remaining on the field claiming the salvage and assisting the survivors of the destroyed Sixth Pesht. As the Nova Cats re-boarded their DropShips the Snow Raven vessels entered the system as expected Katrine Devalis wasted no time in contacting the Raven commander to pass on her fury that the Ravens had interfered with a Trial of Possession that the Draconis Combine and Nova Cats were abiding with and demanded Safcon. For the Raven WarShip commander’s part he appeared shocked that Snow Raven ground forces had assisted the Draconis Combine in fighting off the Nova Cat forces and that they had interfered with a Trial of Possession and immediately granted the Nova Cat’s safcon promising saKhan Katrine Devalis that he would meet with the ground forces commander in a Circle of Equals and ensure the matter was resolved.
Nearly a week later the Nova Cats transited the system and returned to their WarShips jumping clear of Multan. Instead of jumping back towards the Nova Cat’s Den as the other Nova Cat commanders had expected Katrine Devalis ordered the Nova Cats to Farstar a periphery colony that had once been home to a House Davion intelligence base before Clan Nova Cat had destroyed it in 3063. To this day Nova Cat shipping regularly traveled through the system checking to see if House Davion’s spies had returned or if others had moved in. Occasionally they discovered a raider unit had taken over the half destroyed/abandoned buildings of the old colony on the planet which gave the Nova Cats an excuse for some live fire training. This particular visit was for a different reason Katrine Devalis had no interest in searching for pirates on the planet instead she commanded Upsilon Galaxy to occupy the former colony world for Clan Nova Cat until she planned her next move against Clan Snow Raven her forces had been defeated but she wasn’t done with the Ravens yet.
FSS Bravery (First Prince II-class Battleship)
Kathil, Capellan March
Federated Suns
15th January 3106
Duchess Kym Hasek moves her command of the Capellan March to the FSS Bravery intent on continuing to Aerospace Fighters while coordinating with Kathil on defence of the March. The FSS Bravery has been specifically modified with an extensive command facility and mobile HPG system. The Duchess also confirms Richard Steiner’s promotion to Field Marshal with him continuing to command the rebuilding First Kathil Uhlans RCT while also being part of the structure on Kathil.
This move from the Capellan March command comes as Prince Burton Davion returns to active AFFS duty taking advantage of the Capellan Confederation’s preoccupation with the fighting on Sarna in attacking New Macao and Mandate. Despite the changes in his life Prince Burton Davion continues to lead from the front piloting his Templar III into battle against Capellan forces on New Macao while elsewhere his wife Sterling McKenna-Davion gives birth to her third child Christopher on New Avalon.
The Federated Suns attack comes as Oriente finally secures Sakhalin and Quemoy driving off Capellan defences while heavy fighting continues between Oriente and the Capellans on Sarna. The Duchy of Oriente’s command announces that the CCSS Xe Xin, a Shoung Bi Shou-class Corvette, had been destroyed in the Sarna system.
Rumours persist that in an effort to restore flagging Capellan morale the Capellan Chancellor Dao-Shen Liao had personally taken command of the recently launched CCSS Chancellor’s Sword and was enroute to the front-lines. The ship, like its sister ship the CCSS Chancellor’s Destiny, had recently been re-classified as a Bain Cheng Wang-class Battleship after being trialed under the classification of a Du Shi Wang-class Battleship (Upgrade) is based on the old Battleship but due to changes in the design is essentially a completely new class.
Royal Appointment
New Samarkand, Midway Military District
Draconis Combine
19th January 3106
Akira Kurita, son of Vincent Kurita and heir to the leadership of the Draconis Combine, joins the DCMS six days short of turning sixteen piloting a classic Dragon BattleMech on New Samarkand on his first day at the New Samarkand Military Academy. The young heir to the throne will be trained in all forms of combat and strategy at the Academy before joining a line regiment his uncle Warlord Minoru Kurita continues to rule the Draconis Combine stating that when Akira is ready he will turn over control of the nation.
Alshian Shipyards, Launching ceremony
Alshian, Alshian District
Rasalhague Dominion
24th January 3106
At the shipyards above Alshian the first two Bergen-class Destroyers constructed move out of the shipyards to begin trials before entering the Rasalhague Dominion Touman. The ships are designed to fill a gap in the Ghost Bear’s Navy where not all situations require a Leviathan II-class Battleship or a Conqueror-class Battle-cruiser. Each of the vessels are six hundred-and-fifty thousand tons in weight and are well armed and as long as most other militarizes Cruisers but the Ghost Bear designers had gone with the Destroyer description hoping it wouldn’t spark an arms race. Both vessels will complete WarShip trials in the Alshian system and travel between the system and Rasalhague before entering active service.
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I'll post the Bain Cheng Wang-class Battleship and the Bergen-class Destroyer tomorrow
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Very nice update Dragon Cat :) One lil typo though I spotted for the Bergen's bit, 650 tonnes is a bit light for a destroyer :D And interesting, it seems the Raven' are trying to yoink more territory from the Combine and they either blundered into the Cats/Combine trial or did it deliberately and then said "oops...my bad.."
We know the Ravens are quite opportunistic and if their ground commander saw the Cats and DC forces fighting he could have launched his assault (and seemingly with overwhelming numbers too) to take advantage of the confusion and fighting already going on.
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I'm also curious on how this saKhan's visions will lead them to. To ruin or to salvation of the Nova Cat Clan.
Nice update, Dragon Cat!
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Hmm, wonder where this will lead. With the Raven battlegroup not knowing what's going on (assuming they are telling the truth, of course), it is kind of sounding like bloodhouse politics. And if it is, that is telling as far as the level of comfort the Ravens seem to have been enjoying.
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And if it is, that is telling as far as the level of comfort the Ravens seem to have been enjoying.
What do you mean by that Vition?
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In my mind, for the Raven's to get past the "merely surviving" attitude they need to have a feeling for a relatively high degree of safety and be comfortable in their position. That they may have gone back to their older, more Machiavellian internal politics indicates to me, that they (or at least certain portions of them) feel safe enough that playing politics like that isn't going to destroy them.
Edit: I'll clarify and expand on the above a bit on how I view the Ravens.
The Ravens tend to have 4 strongly identifiable traits. They are paranoid survivalists, warship enthusiasts, scavengers, and politicians (mostly internal to the clan, but this has a side effect of making them pretty good in external politics).
Survival takes the most precedent, at this point in their existence they've been on the verge of annihilation twice (though in DC's universe it wasn't quite as bad as in the original), and that sticks with them for quite a while. This aspect of the Ravens will push them to very unclan-like acts in order to remain a singular society. They have recently had a long period where they weren't being directly threatened by more powerful outside forces, which has allowed them to turn inwards a bit more and allowed their internal politics to start increasing in frequency and magnitude - the abandonment of the clan by their previous khan probably doesn't help the internal political situation either. Survival tends to take a far back seat when it's not considered to be an issue.
The scavenger part is constantly present, as they've never had the resources to be able to do what they wanted. Oddly enough this is also the part that tends to get them in the most trouble with other clans and other neighboring states and often leads them into trouble and the cropping up of the survivalist mentality.
Internal politics, while also constantly present, takes a back seat to survival whenever that aspect is present.
The Raven fleet, which used to be the strongest in DC's Universe, is their primary means of pushing their power on an international stage, their large fleet always meant that they had the ability to back up a lot of their political claims to other clans, and for a while the DC and FS. As they have been mostly off the international political stage recently, they haven't had as much use for their warships and their production has declined similarly as they've spent their resources on more internal matters.
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would the mountain Wolves try to take one of the three HH-1 yardships that Hell Horses have? it would seem that something like that would be a good items... if they could get it or the Wolf's Dragoons might give a try. the HH are very week and a one two punch could send them into a tail spin.
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The HH are only weak in the space game, on the ground they have large numbers and a fair bit of experience (not equal to the CMWs but no slouches either). And their HH-1s are unlikely to be particularly close to the front lines - though a double or LFB mk II triple jump might be able to catch one off guard, if they can discern where one is.
Really, I'd kinda like the Mountain Wolves to either go away, or turn into an independent state, rather than the nebulous house pet-hood they are in at the moment.
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Perhaps i've not been looking deeply at this. How have the Diamond Sharks handling things? I forgot if they became Nomad merchants yet or not. Do they still have a Warship fleet? After the Ravens, their fleet should pretty sizable too.
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I'll take this one question at a time, DC can certainly override how I've seen things though. :D
How have the Diamond Sharks handling things? I forgot if they became Nomad merchants yet or not.
This kind of depends on how you think of things. They've certainly become, very likely, the largest and most technologically advanced organization of the Inner Sphere and near Periphery. But they have kind of been a side note in the recent history of the universe. They've had their hands in arming many sides, but haven't been particularly proactive - as befits merchants. They currently control worlds throughout most of the Inner Sphere, only really missing one in the spinward quadrant (towards the Raven Alliance), the Chainlane Isles, and a decent sized swath of worlds in the clan occupation zone above and beside the Falcons and Hell's Horses, respectively (totaling 22 worlds, so this swath is actually larger in number than the number of worlds the Falcons currently control).
Their nomadic tendencies have cropped up, but with fairly large occupation zones, has likely decreased the level of nomadism. They do have 8 Khanates though, and so may be more widely spread than in the standard universe.
Do they still have a Warship fleet? After the Ravens, their fleet should pretty sizable too.
Yes and no. They currently have 36 "warships," but 22 of them are primarily non-combat ships, either being true transport classes (mostly carrack and volgas) or their Sea Fox-class arcships. This means the actual warship fighting power is 14. Their ground touman, though also spread out, is fairly solidly middle of the pack in numbers and strength.
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I wouldn't want to correct this Timeline's Spokesperson ;) and for the most part I don't have to
The Sea Foxes also control the Chainelane Isles
The most moving that the Sea Fox do is between their controlled worlds. They have by and large a free pass to move around the Inner Sphere as long as they don't conduct attacks outwith of arranged trials. Their OZ is a product of the Jade Falcon Touman shrinking and the Hell's Horses who want to push forwards.
The only market that is closed to the Sea Fox (primarily their own choice) is the Capellan Confederation and District of Regulus in both cases because those states did wrong by them.
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http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=54517.msg1256050#msg1256050 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=54517.msg1256050#msg1256050) - Bian Cheng Wang-class Battleship
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=54518.0 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=54518.0) - Bergen-class Destroyer
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Water Treatment Plant
Saffel, Alya Prefecture
Dieron Military District, Draconis Combine
14th February 3106
“Everything’s set” the trooper said watching the complex ahead of them his sneak suit completely devoid of markings.
“All workers out?” Another asked he was wearing an identical sneak suit and stood off to the side watching the plant ahead.
“Yes, sir, we triggered the fire alarm they won’t be able to say for sure if there is a fire or not…” a third trooper said as people began to evacuate the Water Treatment Plant below “and there they go.”
“Three give them a couple of minutes to evacuate then blow it” the second trooper replied continuing to watch the plant. Below the workers evacuated the facility onto the snow covered car parks. “Go” he ordered moments later the charges detonated leveling the facility its destruction would cause water shortages and riots further destabilizing the planet which was still reeling from the death of their planetary governor.
“Strike team withdraw full stealth egress” the commander said glancing around “remember if the Combine close down the spaceport you stow your gear and turn up to work in the morning.” He said they had been on Saffel for three weeks already working jobs in the capital city “you keep a low profile and ride out any of the troubles then evac when you can.” He said “now move out and may the Peace of Blake be with you.”
Elsewhere on in the capital an explosion destroyed the generator that served the Hyper Pulse Generator disabling it cutting off Saffel from the rest of the Inner Sphere. With water shortages across Saffel and without communications beyond the system riots grow in severity across the globe leading to the Sixteenth Dieron Regulars Regiment cracking down heavily on the local population resulting in increasing civilian casualties.
Raid
Acidalia, Taurian Concordat
Periphery
16th February 3106
The Nova Cat Vanguard-class DropShip had landed unopposed on Taurian Concordat world of Acidalia. The world had recently been occupied by the Taurians and the defenders didn’t have the firepower to oppose the seventeen thousand-four hundred ton DropShip. From the DropShip nine BattleMechs, a single Nova Cat II OmniMech and several points of ProtoMechs had deployed creating a perimeter which held the Taurian Concordat defenders back while vehicles deployed from inside the heart of the vessel including several SM-1 and Snow Tiger Tank Destroyers.
In among the vehicles were a pair of recently developed Stealth Arrow Hovertanks the vehicles modified versions of the Snow Tiger OmniVehicle E configuration, which merged an Arrow IV Artillery Missile Launcher with the chassis, the Steath Arrow took the design a step further by adding reverse engineered Capellan Stealth Armour to create a far more deadly beast. The Nova Cats also test new variants of the Solace, Joust and Shoden during the eight days that they test Taurian defences. It is obvious to the Taurian defenders that the Nova Cats could overwhelm the defenders at anytime but that they have no interest in taking the planet or causing collateral damage instead using the entire encounter as a test for their new vehicles before pulling out of the system.
Meeting Room, Gravity Deck 4
Galatea Station, Galatea
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
23rd February 3106
The Subtlety’s arrival at the Galatea Station had not been unexpected nor had it been a surprise when a request came from Captain William Leroy-Dietrich for a party to come on board the station but what had been surprising was when the Captain had requested to speak with the command staff of the station instead of the MRBC reprentatives on the station.
“I do not plan on hiring my WarShip to the highest bidder” Leroy-Dietrich explained “the Subtlety was not designed as a true weapon of war she comes from an era where people could afford to turn a Battleship into a tool for teaching and training. I wish to continue the mission that the original Star League Defence Force set out for the ship and train those who need it.” He said walking around the room looking ‘out’ at what surrounded them it would have been impossible for there to be actual port holes instead the walls were covered in massive screens that displayed images of the space around the station which changed as the gravity deck rotated around the station’s hull.
“Then, with respect, why didn’t you turn it back to the Star League Defence Force?” Lt Commander Claudia Christian the station’s Executive Officer asked.
“I am a mercenary by trade I have been for most of my career but as I’ve gotten older I’ve begun to realize that money isn’t everything.” He half joked “I could have sold the Subtlety back to the Star League Defence Force or to any of the other nations we have passed through but I have a feeling that she would be turned into a weapon of war and sent to the front lines. This ship was not made for that…”
“I think it was” Commander Christian said interrupting but Commander O’Hare spoke up before she could cause too much of a problem Christian was quick to defend the Galatea Station from any number of problems.
“Captain, what is it that you want from us? Galatea is an open system and the MRBC are based here you could register with them and operate your ship as you wish.” He suggested remaining seated at the desk.
“I do not intend for the Subtlety to be hired from one state to the next.” Leroy-Dietrich said “I want a home for my people and with your support I would like to make our home here.” He said turning back towards the station’s personnel “the Subtlety will support the defence of this station and this system and we will continue to train anyone who wishes our services. In exchange we would like free travel onto the station for our civilians and assistance with the continued repairs and maintenance for the Subtlety.”
“That’s a lot of ship to repair” Christian said quietly.
“It’s also a lot of resources that this station and system could use as an ally.” O’Hare said rising from his chair “your ship and its resources will be a welcome addition to this system’s defence. I would ask that my pilots are allowed to train alongside yours without additional charge in exchange for your continued presence in this system. As far as repairs and maintenance I am sure that you will be able to find people passing through this system who will help you with that… for the right price.”
“They would be welcome to join my fighters and our training classes some of the mercenaries I am sure would benefit from multiple viewpoints of aerospace fighter training.” Leroy-Dietrich agreed extending his hand which O’Hare shook.
Border skirmish
Illyria, Lothian League
Periphery
27th February 3106
On the world of Illyria the Free Worlds League’s Sixth Tamarind Militia Regiment and the Group W Mercenary Command, under Lyran Commonwealth contract, battle for command of the system. The Illyrian population do not support either side instead the planetary defence force martial their IndustrialMechs and combat vehicles to defend the planet’s civilian population moving them out of the combat zones.
For nearly six days a three way battle rages across Illyria with the population taking heavy collateral damage. Eventually Group W’s experience wins through against the Tamarind Militia forcing them off the planet. For nearly three weeks Group W remain on the planet but word arrives that the Lyran Commonwealth would not be dispatching further unit’s to the planet as Illyria was too remote to keep supplied. Following the casualties taken on Illyria the commander of the Group W, Colonel Andrew Bethke, decides to activate an escape clause in the unit’s contract with the Lyran Commonwealth. Unable to leave Illyria immediately the command accepts a temporary contract with the Illyrian Government helping the defenders improve the defences of Illyria while assisting in defending the planet from future Lyran Commonwealth and Free Worlds League attacks.
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Nice update! With the Subtlty seemingly finding a home and still some Blakists around the Cats also test a new vehicle :)
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Good update, good to see the Word are still active.
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Civil Disturbance
Saffel, Alya Prefecture
Dieron Military District, Draconis Combine
8th March 3106
As civilian casualties continue to rise due to the rioting and fresh water problems on Saffel the Dieron Regulars are unable to bring an end to the problems without using force resulting in nearly eight thousand casualties in a single month. Over the border in the Star League Protectorate the Star League Defence Force are unable stand by and watch the planet rip itself apart under the command of Commanding-General Victor Focht the Second Knights of the Inner Sphere Regimental Brigade are deployed onto the planet along with several portable water purifiers, food and shelters for the population that had been affected by the riots. The Second Knights are also ordered to assist the Dieron Regulars in bringing peace back to the planet and, if necessary, to stop the DCMS unit from causing further heavy casualties to the population. With three infantry regiments and a reinforced Battle Armour Regiment at their disposal the Second Knights are seen as the perfect unit for the task.
With the arrival of SLDF forces on the planet the Draconis Combine’s Government protests the unsanctioned move but due to their inability to communicate properly with Saffel’s government and the the Dieron Regulars hap-hazard handling of the situation on the planet they do not make any overt moves against the SLDF.
Approach, CCSS Celestial Sword (Bain Cheng Wang-class Battleship)
Fletcher, District of Oriente
Free Worlds League
17th March 3106
The CCSS Celestial Sword and her sister ship the CCSS Chancellor’s Destiny both jumped into the Fletcher system along with nearly a dozen assault DropShips and more than one hundred escort fighters. Defending the system the OPS Oriente and OPS Second Chance, both Monolisk-class Destroyers, waited for the Capellans. In the last weeks the Capellan Confederation had struck and taken Les Halles, Galloway VI and Anegasaki despite Oriente’s continued contesting of Sarna the Capellans morale appeared to have been boasted by reports that Chancellor Dao-Shen Liao was in personal command of their attacks against the District of Oriente while promised reinforcements from the other Free Worlds League nations had still be held back.
As nearly three regiments of Capellan Confederation ground forces charged towards the planet Fletcher’s Oriente-class Orbital Guns fired as one cutting down several of the incoming DropShips with their Naval Gauss Rifles. As aerospace fighters and DropShips engaged each other the two Capellan Battleships moved into position and began long range bombardment of the orbital platforms even as they turned their gauss rifles on the two Battleships combining fire with the two Monolisk-class Destroyers. Using their capital missiles, naval particle cannons and mass drivers the two Bain Cheng Wang-class Battleships swiftly cut down several of the orbiting weapons platforms opening gaps for Capellan ground forces to charge towards the planet but the defence fire from the defenders was enough to keep the Battleships away from the planet. With Fletcher contested by the Capellan ground forces and their WarShips pinned in by the Battleships the world is essentially placed under blockade.
Trial of Refusal, Clan Snow Raven Hall
Alpheratz, Raven Alliance
Periphery
29th March 3106
saKhan Katrine Devalis of Clan Nova Cat marched across the paving of the Snow Raven Clan Hall on Alphertaz, the home of the Snow Raven Clan on Alpheratz, nearly a week before her WarShip had arrived in the system and the Ravens had accepted her request for Safcon allowing her to travel to the planet’s surface.
“Nova Cat saKhan welcome to Alpheratz how can the Snow Raven Clan be of assistance to you today?” Khan Jacob Siegel said he was an Elemental by birth, although he had commanded a WarShip for most of his career, and towered over Katrine.
“Thank you for the warm welcome” she said curtly looking at the man he was older than Katrine with a muscular build and short cropped blonde hair. “I wish to declare a Trial of Refusal against your Clan.”
“For what reason?” Jacob Siegel asked looking at the Nova Cat’s saKhan.
“Over the last few weeks we have found that you Clan have been training with the Draconis Combine.”
“So…”
“So your actions have endangered Nova Cat lives and your forces have involved themselves in a Trial of Possession that you were not invited into.” Katrine Devalis snapped interrupting the Snow Raven Khan.
“Your Clan has trained with the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns, the Sea Foxes train regularly against the forces of the Inner Sphere to show off their newest weapons and the Fire Mandrill’s relationship with the Rim Collection is well known.” Jacob Seigel said defensively.
“Aff, but none of the other Clan forces have interfered with an honour battle between two forces yours has.” Katrine Devalis said tossing him a data chip on it was the data that covered the battle between the Nova Cats and the Draconis Combine, their agreement of a Trial of Possession, and the Snow Raven interference.
“I disagree with your assessment but I agree to your challenge” he said looking down at the data chip but not looking at the data on it. “I will defend Snow Raven Factory Complex Sigma Four with my command Keshik comprised of a star each of Battle Armour, ProtoMech and BattleMechs. Each of these warriors is an elite warrior of the Snow Raven and will defend our Clan’s honour.”
“I will contest your claim with two Stars of BattleMechs and a single combined star of Battle Armour and ProtoMechs.” She said surprised by the choice of Sigma Four it was an orbiting space station used by the Snow Ravens as a supply station and garrison point. “These warriors have fought with me for several years and are among the best in Clan Nova Cat.”
“We will battle tomorrow.”
“Seyla” they both finally said without another word saKhan Katrine Devalis turned and walked out of the room.
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The next day the forces of Clan Nova Cat and Snow Raven arrayed against each other on the hull of the Sigma Four space station. saKhan Katrine Devalis felt sick sitting in the cockpit of her OmniMech despite hundreds of years of space travel it was the one place that humans did not belong. She also wished she’d bid aerospace fighters to combat the Snow Ravens but she’d followed the Raven Khan’s example and only bid ground forces.
“I am Khan Jacob Siegel leader of the Snow Raven Clan and defender of this trial.” The Elemental warrior leading Clan Snow Raven said beginning the Trial.
“And I am saKhan Katrine Devalis the challenger of this trial.”
“May no others enter” Jacob Siegel said
“Seyla” she replied moving her OmniMech to the left across the hull of the space station. Due to the null gravity none of their units could use normal jump jets instead relying on space maneuvering units and magnetic clamps to remain attached to the ‘ground.’ She had ordered the other members of her command to target the enemy Elementals first with the specific purpose of eliminating Jacob Siegel.
Missiles, particle cannons and lasers shot between the two clan forces as each tried to out maneuver the other. Katrine Devalis cut off two particle beam shots and let off a stream of autocannon fire bringing down a Snow Raven Goshawk II. The impacts of the weapons cut the lighter BattleMech down tearing its left arm and right leg off the BattleMech sending the remains of the Mech into space as it lacked the magnetic grip on the space station’s hull. Long range missiles slammed into the hull around Katrine’s Deimos blowing small chunks out of the station’s armour but causing no major damage.
“We have the Snow Raven Khan’s unit” Jeffrey West reported from Katrine’s right flank cutting across the hull she fired her OmniMech’s weapons into a Snow Raven Summoner causing heavy damage to its torso and upper arm armour. Missiles and a particle cannon shot flew back towards the OmniMech the missiles flying off into space while the particle cannon burned into the armour on the Deimos’ right side.
“Keep him there I will be there soon” she said turning her attention back on the summoner hitting it with twinned autocannons sand-blasting the OmniMech with cluster munitions fired from the huge BattleMech sized shot guns. The Summoner reeled under the fire and began to stagger forwards firing its autocannon directly into the space station’s hull as the pilot fought the OmniMech Katrine didn’t give the pilot any time hitting it again with more weapons fire burning away armour plating exposing internal structure. Katrine stepped her OmniMech forwards and pressed the second trigger burning the enemy Mech’s legs with his Deimos’ particle cannons in the frozen emptiness of space the heat build-up was less noticeable for Katrine as she watched the Summoner’s leg collapse under the Mech’s weight.
Leaving the prone enemy OmniMech Katrine turned towards the Snow Raven Khan’s position as she approached she saw a point of Elementals leaping from Nova Cat Mech to Mech and opening fire on the Nova Cat Battle Armour and ProtoMech units. The fluid movements of the troopers showing their ease with their environment unlike some of Katrine’s own troops she watched their movement for a moment anticipating where they would be next she switched the autocannons over to solid shot explosive rounds and fired two volleys into the space station near the Elementals blowing open the hull knocking two of the suits completely off the hull. The remaining three Elementals jumped towards the Deimos Katrine stepped backwards opening fire with both arm mounted pulse lasers cutting another Elemental out of the formation. Katrine followed up with her fire with two salvos of autocannon cluster munitions which tore through the remaining two battle armour suits killing both troopers including the Snow Raven Khan. Two particle cannons suddenly slammed into the upper torso of the Deimos followed by several autocannon volleys and missiles blasting armour from the OmniMech’s chassis knocking systems offline on Katrine’s Mech she twisted her Mech’s torso blasting back at the Ravens with her autocannons and particle cannons holding her position.
The battle went on for nearly two hours after the fall of the Snow Raven leader with the remaining Snow Ravens fighting harder and longer than any of the Nova Cats had expected. Despite the station’s thick armour the fighting had breached Sigma Four’s hull in several places causing nearly a dozen casualties on-board the station. With the Nova Cat victory and the Raven leader dead Katrine Devalis deamed her Trial of Refusal a success and ordered a withdrawal of Nova Cat forces returning them to the claimed periphery world of Farstar.
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Nice update! SLDF to the rescue in Saffel and Clan Snow Raven losing a trial and a khan too! Hmm... The political impact? Oh the CC on the offensive! Keep it up!
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2 CC battleships in Fletcher.
Terrible shame if they lose 1. :D
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Very nice update, interesting happenings in the Sphere.
... Clan Snow Raven losing a trial and a khan too! Hmm... The political impact?
Meh, he was just a Siegel. >:D
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Another great entry. Nova Cat vs Snow Raven trial pretty brutal. Maybe a possible Clan war?
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Wait. Did we get a resolution with our refugees from another timeline?
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Great update! Saffel looks like it will come under SLDF protection soon and another world is added to the Hegemony in being. The Cappellan offensive is a good debut for their new BB's and I have a feeling that Dao Shen might order their mass drivers turned on the planet with all the negative repercussions that entails.
The Raven/Nova Cat issue could be interesting, the Raven's Khan was IIRC not that popular and rather thuggish and his removal could probably be a good thing, but i'm still curious about the winged cat of the SaKhan's vision. I honestly thought that it was her, that she'd be made a bondsman of the Ravens if they lost. Colour me intrigued :)
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Wait. Did we get a resolution with our refugees from another timeline?
Sort of they are currently "guests" of the Sortek Estate on New Avalon. The nearby RCT deployment is purely a coincidence
I'm not finished with them.
Im glad you all enjoyed the update the wheels are slowly turning to the right point for something to happen
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DC you always have wheels turning towards some plot point!!!
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Next step - thank's to marauder648 for the first section and the little discovery
Command Bridge, Scipio (Merchant-class JumpShip)
Periphery, Unclaimed sytem
3rd April 3106
The Scipio was an old ship, in service for centuries to the Marian Hegemony as a troop carrier before being displaced by newer and more capable ships. The Merchant class JumpShip was instead consigned to ‘resource discovery’ patrols. Long and boring loops to the ‘south’ and ‘west’ of the Hegemony’s holdings, scouting systems, asteroid belts and comets for resources. Her two attached DropShips the Marcus and Aggripa were also very long in the tooth, both Buccaneer class, converted to act as mobile mining and surveying ships and bases had already undocked and they and a small swarm of shuttles were off inspecting the wonderfully exciting system of NA/42/D.
The system was in a word dull, dim brown dwarf and shoals of asteroids that would probably take weeks of scanning and checking. If something was found then it would be logged and reported back when the ship returned after her four-month journey finished.
“Sir, shuttle 41 is reporting a faint echo on their LIDAR, from their bearing at green 232 distances… roughly two million miles.”
Captain Marc Behar snorted, putting his bulb of coffee down. “41? That’s Diego’s team right? If they have got more glitches with their sensors...”
“Negative Sir, they are routing the data to us and it’s definitely something.”
“An Asteroid?”
“No sir, too much metal unless it’s a lump of solid metal drifting out there.”
“Fine, have them go investigate and report back.” Marc leaned in, looking at the sensor reports “Could it be someone trying to sneak around unnoticed?”
“Possibly Sir…I mean it’s over three million clicks from our location, and there are no jump points out there so it’s a bloody odd place to hide.”
“Have 41 check it out, and spin up the jump drive just in case.”
“And the DropShips?”
“Lets hope their engines are running properly, they are less valuable than this ship.”
“Aye, aye Sir.”
Aboard the Oxen class shuttle there were a few groans from the four man crew. “That’s a three hour trip there and back for fraks sake!”
“Fuel will be cutting it fine too.”
“Quit your bloody grumbling, it’s an order so we obey, sure its bloody miserable but would you rather be outside in your vac-suits?” Pilot First Class Diego Pegg had once been a fighter pilot, but shrapnel from an air raid on his base had ended his fighter jock days, down-rated to fly shuttles he’d been with the Scipio for two years now.
“No boss.”
“Exactly, now lay in a course and someone get me a tea.”
Two hours later.
Half the crew of the shuttle were dozing when the LIDAR return receiver started its insistent chirping. “Report.”
“Big return, solid metal mass, nothing on thermals or radar.”
“Anything on visual?”
“Zilch, too far away.”
“Alright..lets do what we’re paid to do. Co-pilot keep your hand on the throttle, if we get a sensor lock I want you to open the taps and help me turn this big beast.”
“You got it boss.” The Oxen was a big shuttle, 200 tonnes to be precise, and was in service pretty much everywhere often under different names. In Marian service they kept the original name, stripping out their machine guns in favour of a little bit more stowage space for the four crew and any passengers. But even under the best circumstances they turned like a horse before the plough and accelerated about as fast as one too.
“Frak me…”
“What you got Kathrin?”
“Visual… on… a ship… dunno what she is, never seen that design in my life.”
The young radar operator was fresh out of the academy, and this was in essence training for her, she was known to be a ‘spotter’ damn good at IDing military kit visually, and to hear her flummoxed was something new.
On the small screen the image was grainy; the long range cameras were using star light and thermal optics to resolve the image in a whitish green. The ship was a curious design. Over four hundred meters long, its bow dominated by a large bridge section that looked like a sledgehammer head. A narrow ‘neck’ went back to a simply massive rotating section that was easily two hundred meters in diameter, sticking out of the fairly narrow hull of the ship and running back for over a hundred meters before the thin hull emerged once more towards the blocky engine section.
“Any IFF?”
“Nothing sir, no thermals, not even an erg of power is leaking off her, hull temperature is way down too. She’s dead, no power at all.”
“Moving in closer, are we feeding this back to the Scipio?”
“Yes boss, data links open, just a few seconds lag due to the distance.”
“Great… make sure the audio’s off eh?”
They all chuckled at that as the shuttle’s engines rumbled, driving them closer to the strange looking ship.
“Ho-lee-hell! Look at that!”
Now only a few hundred kilometres away they could see what had seemingly killed the ship. Her port side, from bow to stern was blackened as if the metal had been heated and scored. A few radar masts and sensor dishes were warped and looked melted and an amber light lit up as the shuttle moved in.
“Jesus, look at those rads on the outer hull. It’s not lethal but I’m not going on that things surface for anything more than a few hours.”
“Life pods are still in place, I can see the ports for them and the lifeboats too.”
“Well at least she’s bloody human…”
“Yeah but with radiation scarring like that on her hull?”
“You read too much sci-fi; little green men or giant birds are not out there waiting to zap us.”
“Sir! I can see her name! The… SLS… C. Sagan.”
MHS Scipio (Merchant-class JumpShip)
“Found her! She is an Endeavour class science vessel. They only built four of them the Hawkins, Einstein, Averroes and the Sagan. They launched from the Titan shipyards twenty years before the Amaris Civil War on an exploration mission to the Deep Periphery.”
“So what the hell is she doing out here? And what the hell happened to her? Get Shuttle 41 to dock if they can and investigate.”
Shuttle 41
“Oh frak that…”
“Shut up! She’s a League ship so she’ll have a universal docking port. We can run a power cable into the airlock and jump start it, running it off our own reactor and get in that way. How high are the rads?”
“High enough, I’d say we could take four hours on-board, I’m not sure about her hull plating and what it absorbed but I suggest we all have rad counters on-board and try staying away from the port side.”
“Roger that… and speaking of which… Roger… get suited up and get ready to go outside. She’s got a big ass docking collar on her neck so we’ll lock on there. Get that air lock open and then get your grumbling butt inside.”
“Aye boss.”
With the airlock active after a somewhat worrying twenty minutes of attempted docking the shuttles crew, bar one went into the dark hull of the C. Sagan
“If you say ‘lets split up…’ boss I’ll kill you.”
“Yeah… Let’s stay together, don’t touch anything.”
“Temperature is 104 below. No oxygen, she’s a void, someone purged the atmosphere.”
“Where’s the crew?”
The walkway from the docking collar was full of free floating objects, paper, books, a few data pads and somewhat alarmingly a boot.
“Liberate tu te me…”
“Enough of that Kathrin. Just keep calm people, she’s a derelict, lets find her crew and see if we can get the logs and get the hell out of here.”
“Hey boss…I just had a thought.”
“Oh this ought to be good…”
“Oh it is… two words. Salvage rights.”
With the prospect of money and reward in mind the three Marians continued into the cold and silent hulk, fortunately everything was marked in English and they found their way to the medical bay in part of the huge grav deck. “Sir… I’ve found the crew.”
Behind a sealed door was a room that was full of body bags, free floating in zero-g, over two hundred white bags in the sealed chamber.
“Check your rad dosage people…lets find the crew quarters and look for the Captain’s cabin.
“You got it boss…”
MHS Scipio
Periphery
4th April 3106
“I want to commend you on a job well done Pilot, we’ll have to see about salvage rights but I’m sure that the Caesar will be happy with this find.” Captain Behar said as he looked at the reports. The survey mission was now quite forgotten and both DropShips were now slowly towing the C. Sagan towards the Scipio and the jump point. Partial power had been restored with portable generators, enough to kick-start the computers or at least those that still worked. It was enough to download the ships logs and those of the Captain and it was the log that now came onto the screen in Captain Behar’s quarters.
They’d found the Captain’s body in his quarters, a dissociated and frozen corpse that looked more like a mummy than something that had decomposed. Quite fortunate really.
“Captains Log May 29th 2758. The science boys love all of this, the GY/42 system is a young and active one, the accretion disk is slowly forming planets before our eyes and we’re able to watch a young star and its attendant planets form. Dr Killinger and her team are more than happy with the data we’re getting and the crew are performing well.
“Captains Log April 9th 2758. We’ve moved into the nadir jump point of the system and are able to look ‘down’ at the accretion disk. Probes sent in are recording hugely high temperatures, it’s really dangerous but at the same time beautiful. We’ll be jumping tomorrow with AR/3/B as our next system for exploration; a blue giant should give us a lot of data.”
The next image showed the Captain, clearly under stress, the rooms emergency lighting was on casting a lurid red glow across his face.
“Captains log… frak it… we was hit this morning by what Mr Killinger called a ‘bow wave’ from the star as it formed. A mix of radiation and gaseous particles hitting us bloody fast. Damage was minimal but the radiation surge… over half the crew received a lethal dose in the few seconds we were hit, the rest of us… I’ve ordered the sick to be taken to the least contaminated parts of the ship, and we’re setting a course for Marik space. If we can get there we can get help.”
There was one more log on the file, dated a week later. The man, Captain Tobias Garrant was gaunt, his hair missing in places; he was pale and looked exhausted.
“Well…this is it… we’ve come as far as we can… but with the crew dead or dying and with only eight of us able to still function… I know we can’t go on. I’ve ordered the computer to slowly bleed the air out. Not an instant decompression, we’ll just go to sleep. There’s not enough crew to run the reactor or any of the systems… so it’s time to end it. If anyone finds this log, know that we stayed true to our oaths, and discipline aboard ship never wavered. “
Caesar’s Quarters
Alphard, Marian Hegemony
Periphery
6th April 3106
“Caesar this vessel is of great value to the Hegemony! We can refit her and reactivate her as a warship.” The Minister of Defence said, looking at the reports from the Scipio. It had taken a month to get the ship back to Marian space and she was now held under the strictest of security in the outer reaches of the system.
“With what are we going to refit her? My noble friend forgets that such a refit would cost a great deal of money and consume resources we just don’t have! We have no active shipyard and our one yard has been in mothballs for years, we’ve also lost a lot of technical expertise with many of the people who knew how to run the yard being either too old to work or drafted aboard our JumpShips and DropShips.”
“We have been able to keep the Hanse operational with minimal support.” The Minister of Foreign Affairs piped up.
“Which has resulted in a barely operational WarShip that can move between Alphard and the jump point and little else” countered the Minister of Industry. “Not that the public or our neighbours know this but my Honourable friend in Defence will support me here, the Hanse needs an major overhaul, and it is not one we are capable of doing with the resources we have.” She said “and now with this vessel, the initial study shows we’d need to remove most of the hull plating on the port side as well as carry out extensive decontamination protocols on the interior, this would take at least a year, the computers would then need to be replaced as most of them were fried by the radiation surge in truth it’s a miracle they were able to jump her as far as they could towards our space. And then it’s a case of fitting weapons. Weapons we do not have and would have to import at great cost or attempt to steal which against an organised defence we do not have the resources.” She said feeling deflated by the issues ahead of the Marians. “This is initially estimated to take at least three years if not more and my Honourable friends, my Caesar, we simply do not have the resources or money for such a grand endeavour without utterly bankrupting our nation.”
“So what do you suggest?”
“Simple, sell her or scrap her, she’s a millstone round our necks and I think…”
The discussion fell silent as Caesar Aleksandr Ward raised his hand and sat forwards the twenty-six year old was one of the youngest people in the room but the only one that had the authority to make a real decision. “I believe that the sale of this vessel would be of more value than retaining her, but who to? The Marik’s and those of that region? To the Lyrans? Or the Wolves?”
“My Caesar, if I may, there is a group who might be willing to aid us and remove the vessel and in return assist us.” Sister Cassandra, the Caesar’s personal assistant and advisor, said quietly stepping forward she was always with the Caesar. She was older than the Caesar but her true age was hidden by the cloak around her shoulders and her carefully arranged hair.
“Speak.” Caesar Aleksandr commanded
“I have an… associate in Interstellar Explorations, whilst they are what they say they are, they have a broad reach and deep pockets as well as the resources and knowledge to reactivate the C. Sagan. She is an exploration vessel after all and they could use her for her intended role.”
“And what would you ask of them in return?”
“Assistance with our shipyards bringing them operational and up to a spec where we could use them in construction and maintenance of JumpShips and possibly future examples of the Galley-class. And assistance in acquiring the parts and resources we would require to repair the Hanse.”
“And they would do this?” Caesar Aleksandr asked looking at the woman who smiled briefly when meeting his gaze.
“I would have to speak with them my Caesar, but I feel that our prize would be incentive enough and our asking price agreeable.” She said bowing for a moment stepping backwards out of the gaze of the others.
Caesar Aleksandr looked at his others advisers, he wasn’t as brutal as some of the leaders of the past but more even handed as his mother had been nevertheless those who failed or displeased him often didn’t live long. Even then there were few who would believe that Aleksandr would take his range out on Sister Cassandra she had a pull over him that few others did although few believed that there was anything physical between them. “Very well, speak with your associate but do not agree to anything unless you speak to me first.” The unsaid ‘or else…’ hung in the air before Aleksandr stood and his guards moved around him as he left the audience room.
Border skirmish
District of Gibraltar, Free Worlds League
11th April 3106
The Seventh, Eleventh and recently raised Twelfth Commonwealth Guards Regiment’s of the Lyran Commonwealth cross the Free Worlds League border onto the planets of Nockalunga and Bella I. Each of the commands had been reinforced with an entire battalion of recently constructed Thantos BattleMechs. This new variant of the heavy BattleMech was known as the TNS-4E and had been updated with two Clan tech nine-tube Advanced Tactical Missile Launchers which replaced the standard Thantos’ Medium Range Missile Launchers. Although these new BattleMechs appear to move slower than previous models the increased firepower and their massed numbers are enough to turn the tide against the defending District of Gibraltar forces. After eight days of heavy fighting on Nockalunga, Bella II, Trellisane and Alula Borealis the Free Worlds League units agree to surrender the systems to the Lyran Commonwealth. For a ransom of the best units in each command the Lyrans allow the Gibraltain forces to withdraw instead of putting them in prison camps.
Company Merger
Talitha, Star League Protectorate
21st April 3106
In a merger that surprises no-one Gilmour MilTech in the Star League Protectorate and LexaTech Industries in the Draconis Combine announce that they have formally merged their resources and finances to form a single company to serve both of their nations. While both nations approve of the merger they both demand that the companies continue to serve the contracts they have already agreed to. Gilmour/Lexa Tech announces that change will come in time and that they will continue with business as normal following the merger with one exception – the introduction of a new product being sold by both halves of the company the fifty-five ton Waneta Land-Air Mech. This new design is one of the largest LAM designs ever produced and makes extensive use of clan technology to provide it with impressive firepower this coupled with the mobility of a LAM promises to make it a welcome addition to its customer’s armies. Surprisingly the Waneta features none of the newly developed technology for Land-Air Mechs instead relying on the same components used since LAMs were first used. Analysis predict that this Waneta is a proof of concept design with Gilmour/Lexa Tech planning on producing a second variant that takes advantage of the unique technology available to the company.
Reinforcement
District of Oriente, Free Worlds League
30th April 3106
As the fighting continues on along the Free Worlds League and Capellan Confederation border combat elements from other Free Worlds League states enter the fray finally supporting the District of Oriente. The primary contributor to Oriente’s reinforcement is the District of Regulus but their assistance comes at a price. While pushing to assist Oriente in throwing off the Capellan Confederation attackers the District of Regulus moves to secure administrative control over nine systems previously controlled by Oriente. The military units assigned to the defence of these worlds do not resist the civilian change instead the local commanders see it as an opportunity spreading out to Oriente’s borders to engage Capellan and Magistracy forces fighting on the borders.
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Good update.
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Thank you for including my rambling story in this Dragon Cat and a great update as well, new Thanatos and more Orente worlds change hands, all be it peacefully.
The C. Sagan I was trying to describe was basically modelled on the Cosmonaut Alexi Leonov of 2010 fame
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/03/6f/bd/036fbd8d293f43844e7484601ba07839.png
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great update, a few hundred million Cbills could do a lot of repairing A merchant class is almost 400 million. looking forward to seeing were your going to take this part of you story line.
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The C.Sagan an interesting find for the MH.
Hopefully they will get what they need.
The Regulans taking over Oriente worlds.
Now will they actually stop ay 9. O0
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You'll be glad to hear that marauder648 has agreed to write a bit more about the C. Sagan's story - I for one look forward to it.
Now for a small update but perhaps one of the most important ones for a while... all good things must come to an end...
Border Conflict
Fanet, Contested Space
Periphery
7th May 3106
After being missing from the Inner Sphere for seven years the Undead Lance reappears fighting on the contested world of Fanet in the middle of the contested space between the Marian Hegemony, Magistracy of Canopus and Free Worlds League. The Undead Lance’s elite skills and advanced BattleMechs turns the tide for the Magistracy forces on the planet in a series of conflicts that sees their opposing forces fall back out of the system. The fall of Fanet puts a distinct Magistracy mark on the contested space between the three nations and is quickly followed by Tarol IV and Draco III which fall into the Magistracy’s open arms.
Black Dragon Stronghold
Saffel, Military District of Dieron
Draconis Combine
19th May 3106
Chu-i Dante Cage breathed heavily as his squad of Kishi Battle Armour troopers moved forward through the darkness another four squads of Kishi armoured troopers moved alongside Cage’s troopers as bullets filled the air around them as they charged towards the Black Dragon stronghold.
“Leave none of these terrorists alive” he ordered triggering his suit’s mechanical jump booster sending his suit over the perimeter wall. This operation was taking place despite the recent riots and the arrival of Star League Defence Force troops on the planet. Even from the top of his jump Dante was firing on the enemy below with his suit’s heavy machine gun. The suit’s came down to land in the darkened stronghold their machine guns continuing to blaze.
Neither the machine gun nor the jumping capabilities were the Kishi’s main strength however landing on the other side of the wall Dante’s squad began to run. Each suit charging at their enemy the Kishi design was capable of more than sixty-four kilometres per hour in open terrain but for now in close quarters they made the Kishi’s nearly impossible to hit by regular infantry troopers. Charging at enemies Dante’s people fired their machine guns and struck our with their heavy vibro battle claws tearing the defenders to pieces one person at a time.
In the space of forty minutes the twenty Kishi troopers killed all one hundred-and-twenty men and women inside the facility with not a single loss among their own numbers. Withdrawing quickly from the burning facility there was no evidence they had ever been there when the SLDF investigators arrived the next morning.
Following a brief investigation the Star League Defence Force’s High Command condems the Draconis Combine for their military operation during a time of planetary crisis on Saffel claiming that the Draconis Combine no longer served the best needs of the people of Saffel and instead the world’s future depended on support and defence from the Star League Defence Force bringing the world into the Star League Protectorate. Commanding-General Victor Focht orders all DCMS forces to withdraw from the planet landing an entire battalion of elite battle armour equipped SAS troops on planet as insurance against Draconis Combine Special Forces. The “fall” of Saffel further isolate’s Dieron and further strains the “Small World sailent” one of the Draconis Combine’s few inroads into Davion held terrioty.
Throne Room, Davion Palace
Avalon City, Albion
Crucis March, Federated Suns
24th May 3106
The trip back from the Capellan front had been an uneventful one Prince Burton Davion had expected to return to his unit but instead he had been called to the Throne Room of the Avalon Palace along with a request to attend in full dress uniform. Of all the things Burton hated being called up in full dress uniform by his father but he did what he was asked. Entering the throne room Burton realized that this was not a normal call to the throne room inside there was a full crowd of people from nobles to citizens from the street nearly one thousand people were arrayed in the room. Around the vast room each wall was lined by troopers dressed in Infiltrator III Battle Armour painted in the dress colours of the First Davion Guards RCT. On the throne were his father First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion sat waiting while beside him Burton’s mother Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion sat one an identical throne and then off further to the right stood Burton’s wife Duchess Sterling McKenna-Davion, with baby Christopher in her arms, and their children Luther and Leah stood waiting. Walking through the ranks of people Burton noted that the heads of the Draconis, Crucis and Capellan March were all present as were the heads of the DMI, MIIO, Quartermasters and Navy. As he stepped past them Burton received several nods and saw many come to attention showing their respect to him.
“Prince Burton Davion stand to attention!” Victor Steiner-Davion called out standing up from his throne “for the last fifty-four years it has been my great honour to lead the Federated Suns as First among its Princes of our great nation.” He said loud enough so his voice carried throughout the chamber. “I have lived and led this nation, I have known its sorrow and its pain, I have found love and experienced the greatest joy” he said as Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion rose to stand beside him showing the union the could held was still as strong as ever. “I have seen my family grow I have celebrated their triumphs and I have berated them them for the failings.” He said Burton felt warmth under his cheeks knowing fine that he had been the source of at least some of those failings his artificial left arm a testimony to that. “However today” Victor said his voice as level as always “today is a special day today it is the scene of my greatest accomplishment” he said looking down at his eldest son. “Unlike many of my predecessors today I Victor Ian Steiner-Davion have the greatest honour to pass leadership to Prince Burton Jackson Davion.” He announced shocking the assembled guests and his son “I have no desire to abandon my service to this nation but it is the right time for a change.” He explained Burton raising his eyes to look at his father’s approving eye. “Prince Luther Davion step forward” Victor called out the eleven year old prince stepped forward his brown hair was swept to the side he wore a black suite jacket, a white shirt, a green tie with red clip and white chinos in his hands he held the most recent addition of the Unfinished Book: The Remembrance. Seeing the book the Prince flashed his father a rye smile as he realized that his father knew that Burton followed the same beliefs and teachings as Victor’s own father Hanse Davion. “Place your right hand on the Unfinished Book, raise your left hand and repeat after me.” Victor said issuing his last command as First Prince of the Federated Suns.
Nearly ten minutes later they finished swearing in Burton Davion as the new First Prince of the Federated Suns “you’ve got the keys son treat her well” Victor said stepping to the side Danai Centrella-Davion also stepped to the side allowing Burton, Sterling and their three children access to the thrones.
“All hail First Prince Burton Davion!” A non-commissioned officer off to the side of the thrones shouted out and the room responded with a “HAIL!”
“All hail Duchess Sterling McKenna-Davion!” he then shouted and another “HAIL!” came in response followed by separate “HAIL!” calls for Luther, Leah and Christopher. Surprisingly three month old Christopher remained calm and didn’t cry out at the cheering crowds.
Finally the non-commissioned officer shouted out one more time “Long Live First Prince Victor Steiner-Davion and Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion!” He called out and to both Victor and Danai’s surprise the crowd erupted louder than they had so far despite his stepping aside from the position Victor would still be referred to as the First Prince he had served the Federated Suns too long to be forgotten so quickly. Victor knew it would add extra pressure on Burton if he was in the limelight too much, and already he had made plans to enjoy his retirement, he’d help his son if he needed it but the plan was for him and Danai to slip into the background quietly and perhaps make up for some of the years they had lost due to the various wars and travel they had to attend to.
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... “I have seen my family grow I have celebrated their triumphs and I have scaulded them for the failings.” ...
that's one way to imprint a lesson, to dip them in boiling water.
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Great update and a new future for the Federated Suns. Victor's got to be getting on a bit now and it makes sense that he steps aside as the First Prince's job is a very active one, and its more a younger man's game. Lets hope that Burton don't feel like he's got to do anything rash to try and step out of Dad's very long and broad shadow.
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that's one way to imprint a lesson, to dip them in boiling water.
Break them down to build them up... I was thinking of another word oops :-[
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So is the Endevour class similar to the Endurance I stated up a while back for Marauder? ;D Mine was named after the ship that broke up in the grip of the antarctic ice, while you went for the ship of Captain Cook I see.
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Yep its basically the same thing, the ship from 2010 but battletechised :p
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Meeting of Khans
Nova Cat Compound, Farstar
Periphery
9th June 3106
The Clan Snow Raven WarShip Snow Raven had arrived in the Farstar system four standard days before and the new Khan of Clan Snow Raven Vir Sukhanov had requested safcon to the planet’s surface. Now the saKhan of Clan Nova Cat Katrine Devalis stood waiting for the Snow Raven leader in the compound that her clan had constructed since taking ownership of Farstar.
The doors to the conference room opened and in entered Khan Vir Sukhanov of Clan Snow Raven he was tall for someone born from the aerospace bloodline looking at him Katrine Devalis believed he could match a MechWarrior for physical strength, meaning he was a threat to her. “Welcome to Farstar and the territory of Clan Nova Cat.” She said welcoming him ignoring her fears for a moment.
“Thank you saKhan Katrine Devalis?” He asked hesitantly for a moment.
“Aff, how can I be of service to Clan Snow Raven?” She asked
“Perhaps you could explain the Nova Cats motive in the periphery?” He asked looking at the saKhan “you attacked and killed a Snow Raven Khan and then have claimed a further four systems in the Periphery near this system.”
“Your Khan was a dishonourable one, the space around us is a chaotic place we have brought peace to it.” Katrine Devalis said simply looking back at the Snow Raven leader.
“Our Khan made a mistake he was not capable of navigating the political unrest in our Clan and” Sukhanov admitted “tried to appease the civilians of the Raven Alliance by keeping our military under control but he also had to appease our warrior castes leading to the agreement with the Draconis…”
“Do I look like I care?” Katrine Devalis demanded “a Raven’s dishonour is the last thing I care for.”
“Of course” Khan Vir Sukhanov said “I wish to ensure Clan Snow Raven’s return to honour and to do this I need to make sure there is nothing further between our Clans.”
“There is only the trouble that continues between all of the Clans do not screw with my Clan and I will not see the destruction of yours.” Katrine Devalis said stepping away walking around the room now trusting that Khan Vir Sukhanov would not strike her turned back.
“I understand” Vir Sukhanov said bowing respectfully for a moment remaining standing where he was Katrine Devalis saw the opportunity and made her move.
“However the other Clans may not see it the same way.” She said turning back towards the Snow Raven Khan “your Clan has colluded with an Inner Sphere state. Helped train them and worked with the worlds you occupy.”
“Pah! The Rasalhague Dominion is a combination of a Clan and Inner Sphere population. The Sea Foxes trade openly with the Inner Sphere states and your own Nova Cats have traded and worked with the Federated Suns. The current Clans do not care who works with who as long as victory is achieved you are living in the past Khan Devalis.” The Nova Cat in front of her actually smiled “you find this amusing Quineg?”
“Neg, however, I believe the other Clans would find it amusing” she said the Snow Raven Khan was about to speak but Katrine Devalis raised her hand to stop him “think about it Khan Sukhanov. You Clan lost Sterling McKenna to a betrayal, you lost Jacob Seigel to my guns and you have failed to win a victory on the battlefield.” She said taunting the Snow Raven leader knowing she was gaining ground with him. “But there is a way… a way you could prove to your Clan and to the others that the Ravens have the strength and honour that matches any of them.” She said continuing to entice him with her words “the Nova Cats believe in visions. Before I came to this part of space I experienced a vision of a cat and a bird… working in unison against their enemies.” She said knowing it wasn’t completely the truth but it was enough for the Raven leader she could see she was getting to him. “Together we will strike down the Draconis Combine and show everyone that our Clans can maintain their position with all of the other Clans.” She said receiving a nod of agreement from the Raven Khan she hoped that with the Nova Cats and Snow Ravens together she could fulfill the last part of her vision or die trying.
Border Conflict
Son Hou Theatre, Alarion Province
Lyran Commonwealth
19th June 3106
Across the Inner Sphere units from various realms and factions fought in the Star League Games on Defiance for competition and glory however elsewhere the fighting continued for the petty conflicts of war. Units from the Free Worlds League’s District of Trafalgar raided the worlds of Sierra, Cerillos and Galisteo attempting to bring these worlds under the control of the united Free Worlds League. Each of these raids are unsuccessful in winning the Free Worlds League territory but they gain each of the units experience and salvage from the Lyran Commonwealth and mercenary defenders.
Elsewhere in the Free Worlds League the District of Regulus threatens the foundation of the united Free Worlds League by forcefully landing troops on the District of Oriente worlds of Lungdo, Abadan, Avellaneda, Hamilton, Holt and Sorunda. On the world of Hamilton fighting erupts between the Seventh Oriente Fusiliers and the Third Cameron-Jones House Guard Regiments as the Regulus unit attempts to land on Hamilton. After nearly two weeks of fighting on Hamilton the Third Marik Guards Regiment of the District of Marik arrives commanded by Captain-General Joseph Marik himself intent on ending the fighting on Hamilton. The Captain-General calls for both sides to end the conflict before it tears the Free Worlds League to pieces.
By the end of 3106 Joseph Marik negotiates Hamilton’s position into the District of Regulus in exchange for free passage of combat units out of the worlds taken by the Regulus troops and the transfer of weapons and equipment from Regulus factories to District of Oriente combat units fighting the Capellan Confederation. Neither Oriente or Regulus are happy with the compromise negotiated by the Captain-General but they both agree that there will be no further territory traded between the two nations. The territory exchanged between the two nations turns the District of Regulus into one of the largest in the Free Worlds League with internal borders stretching from the border with the Star League Protectorate to the border of the Magistracy of Canopus and Capellan Confederation with Regulus secure behind layers of defences and an expanding Regulan military many citizens of the Free Worlds League begin to question if it is time for Regulus to lead their nation.
With the troops freed up from the worlds garrisoned by those worlds now controlled by Regulus the District of Oriente send additional troops to the world of Sarna pushing the last of the Capellan Confederation forces off of the Commonality capital. With Sarna falling to Oriente troops the worlds of Zaurak, Menkib and Matsu, lacking support or command from Sarna, fall to the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns following a series of opportunistic strikes by units of the AFFS and mercenary forces.
Twelfth Martial Olympiad, Star League Grounds
Defiance, Crucis March
Federated Suns
24th June 3106
Unlike the Star League Games on Solaris the Martial Olympiad competition was not dominated by one faction throughout the latter half of June units from across the Inner Sphere and periphery fight in a series of wargames that test their individual and unit skills. As the month slowly moves towards a close the Free Worlds League’s First Free Worlds Guards pulls ahead of the other units on the ground while the Nova Cat’s Silent Verdict, a Liger-class Strike Cruiser, excels in space. Both sides continue to maintain their advantage over the other commands on Defiance until the end of the competition with Colonel Michael Franklin accepting the ground trophy while Star Commodore Zach Leroux accepts the reward for the naval victory.
Criminal Investigation
Devil’s Rock, Star League Protectorate
27th June 3106
Several members of the Star League Defence Force Intelligence Department stood around a table watching the tri-vid footage. “That’s the son-of-a-bitch” Carlton Stuart said looking at the tri-vid “Bobby Winchester how the hell did he get here?”
“He’s slipped through the back channels paying for transport on various civilian and mercenary transports” Stephen Grant said looking back at his colleague. “We haven’t seen the Huron Warrior yet but if he’s here then I bet the Mech is here too.”
“And they are both protected by the gangs” Stuart said his native Northwind accent showing through in his anger. “Even with the considerable SLDF assets on this planet we will struggle to extract him.”
“All we can do is issue the warrants” Grant said “as you say we have significant military and police units on this world if the opportunity strikes we should capture or strike him down.” He proposed “if we can bring Winchester to justice the Combine might feel better towards the Star League’s position on Saffel.”
“Our people know what they need to do either we will capture or destroy him.” Carlton Stewart said replaying the image of the murderer walking casually through the crowd of gang members in the settlement of Devil’s Chance an image they had captured by chance. In the years since the SLDF had gained possession of Devil’s Rock they had monitored the various criminal houses that controlled the majority of the planet’s business and work stopping the worse of their activities and they had tried to bring a better standard of living to all of the population of Devil’s Rock.
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O0 yay an update! Hmm... I wonder if Khan of Clan Snow Raven will listen to the SaKhan of Clan Nova Cat??? Political wheels within wheels! Star League Martial Olympiad winners is a big surprise!
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The SaKhan is playing an interesting political game with the Snow Ravens.
And they are falling for it.
I knew Regulus could not stop itself from taking extra Oriente worlds.
Now how will the power they have accumulated affect the FWL. O0
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Bobby Winchester???
help do we know who he is???
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Bobby Winchester???
help do we know who he is???
I'll answer - he is from XTRO: Most Wanted he stole the Huron Warrior piloted by the Prefect of Saffel. In this AU he stole the Duke of Saffel's Huron Warrior. He escaped across the Star League Protectorate.
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The SaKhan is playing an interesting political game with the Snow Ravens.
And they are falling for it.
Do not underestimate Vir, he plays a very unassuming role but is much more politically inclined and effective than he lets on. If he's anything like his namesake, he'll make a very good Raven Khan.
Edit: Also great update. O0
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Great update, and trying to out politik a Raven could be iffy...
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I'll answer - he is from XTRO: Most Wanted he stole the Huron Warrior piloted by the Prefect of Saffel. In this AU he stole the Duke of Saffel's Huron Warrior. He escaped across the Star League Protectorate.
Thank you
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Throne Room
Robinson, Draconis March
Federated Suns
8th July 3106
“Cousin, I did not expect for you to visit Robinson” Jerome Sandoval, the Duke of the Draconis March, said stepping down from the throne towards his older cousin. Mordecai Sandova was a man from another generation who believed that the Draconis March should be leading the Federated Suns in a continuous war of aggression against the ‘hated snake enemy’ in the Draconis Combine. “Nor did I expect you to arrive with a regiment armed for battle?”
“Patriots wishing to serve the Draconis March and Robinson” Mordecai said “the Robinson Militia has been disbanded for many years it is time that it was reborn.”
“The Militia does not have the best history” Jerome began...
“You have failed this March” Mordecai said interrupting him “the Militia has stood in Robinson’s defence since the foundation of this March. They deserve their place in the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns.”
“I would be failing this March more to accept your fanatics as trained soldiers.”
“Every one of them has served our nation.”
“And they are currently?”
“Free agents willing to serve their nation once more…”
“Free agents willing to serve you” Jerome said finally “what are you really looking for cousin?”
“To serve my March and my nation in the best capacity I can.” Mordecai said bowing slightly before turning slowly moving towards the exit of the throne room leaving Jerome to think about what his cousin had said and the potential threat from his forces. He knew Mordecai had never been happy that Elaine Sandoval had chosen Jerome over his cousin to take over leadership of the March he just hoped that Mordecai did nothing rash about his displeasure.
Council of the Clans, Council Chambers
Andrey, Tukayyid
Independent Clan Terrirory
15th July 3106
The assembled Khans of the Clans sat at the tables in a circle each table separated by a short gap to show the individuality of each of the Clans included in the circle was a table for the Loremaster of the Clans showing Tukayyid’s individual status in the Clans. Not included in the circle was a representative of Solaris VII despite the Gaming World’s new status in Clan society. Behind the Khans stood an entire star of armoured Elementals of the Ebon Guard, silent guardians of the proceedings, while Loremaster of the Clans Thomas Ward stood at his own table. “Khans of the Clans welcome to Tukayyid” he began depite being originally born to Clan Wolf Thomas Ward was now purely loyal and proud to Tukayyid. “You have assembled today to decide how Tukayyid will serve Clan society. It is my belief that Tukayyid has outgrown its position as a neutral meeting and trading point.” He said seeing the Khans did not look completely impressed with his words “we have construction, trade, science and meeting places here Tukayyid has more influence on our society than many of you give it credit.”
“It is not time for another Clan to be born around Tukayyid” Jana Pryde of the Jade Falcons said “Tukayyid’s influence has grown to support our Clans nothing more if the Loremaster cannot see that then he needs to be replaced” she threatened Jana Pryde making it clear of the Jade Falcon position they needed Tukayyid to remain where it was supporting her depleted military.
“Aff I agree Tukayyid knows its place” Hell’s Horses leader Teresia Cooper bellowed the large Elemental warrior who glanced at Jana Pryde and nodded the Hoses and Falcons clearly continuing to be on the same page.
“I do not suggest Tukayyid becomes its own power.” Loremaster Thomas Ward said glancing at the other members “instead I wish to suggest we return to a concept suggested when the Clans were founded.” He said inwardly very pleased that the assembled Khans looked surprised and perhaps a little confused at his suggestion. “When the Clans were founded by Nicholas Kerensky the first few months of the new Clans were supported by the Free Guilds based on Strana Mechty. These Guilds were comprised of members from every one of the Clans and were under the direction of the ilKhan to support each of the Clans without bias or conflict.” Thomas Ward said he neglected to say that Nicholas Kerensky squashed the Free Guilds just weeks after the Pentagon Worlds campaign when it became clear that the Clans were not interested in having independents operating in the Homeworlds. “These modern Free Guilds would control Tukayyid’s trade with the Clans and with the Inner Sphere. They would make weapons, BattleMechs, Ships and Battle Armour available to the other Clans and arrange the trials for your forces, they will coordinate efforts of the scientific and design departments on Tukayyid and better our Clan’s position throughout the Inner Sphere. And will also be up to the Free Guilds to develop our infrastructure on Solaris VII.”
“I believe it is the Loremaster’s decision to what happens on Tukayyid, as long as it does not interfere with the Clans and does not attempt to gain a position about its current station Clan Nova Cat will not oppose it.” Khan Canin Rosse of the Nova Cats said.
“These Free Guilds will be restricted to Tukayyid and trade with the Inner Sphere will be controlled quiaff?” Khan Evangeline Clarke of the Sea Fox Clan asked
“The only Free Guilds personnel who leave Tukayyid will be those who are travelling to collect resources required for production or experiments on Tukayyid or those going to Solaris VII to provide assistance with that world’s development. The only trade they will do is with the traders that we allow access to our Hall on Solaris VII and the traders that are allowed into the Tukayyid system.”
“That is agreeable” Clarke replied realizing that her own Clan’s trade links would be protected from competition.
“Because Clan Sea Fox does such a good job at trading Clan technology to everyone…” Ghost Bear Khan Ragnar Magnesson said seeing Evangeline Clarke ready to hit him with a rebuttle he quickly raised his hand “not just your efforts have been noticed.” He said steeling a glance first at the Nova Cat Khan and then at the Fire Mandrill Khan both Clans had traded technology to the Inner Sphere in the past. While Natasha Faraday of the Fire Mandrills looked uncomfortable at being singled out her Clan had traded technology to survive not because they wanted to by comparison Khan Canin Rosse met Ragnar Magnesson’s steely gaze and smirked as if challenging the freeborn to say more.
“And if there is a future ilKhan what will the Free Guilds do?” Khan of Clan Wolf Amina Kerensky said more curious about the Free Guilds than against them.
“They will like the Loremaster of the Clans and Tukayyid submit to the ilKhan.” Thomas Ward said “as should all of the Clans.”
“Then I am not against this concept.” She said around the room the Khans voted with none of them voting against Ward’s proposal which was just as well since many of his plans behind the Free Guilds were already in place.
“Excellent news the Free Guilds will not disappoint you” he said proudly pressing a button on the console in front of him activating the screens built into their tables. “If you could turn your attention to the screens as part of our initiative to improve all of the Clans and ensure secure travel between Tukayyid and Solaris VII I would like to present to you with the Arbitration-class Battleship.” He said on the screens in front of them a massive WarShip slipped from the shipyard above Tukayyid it had a split forward section with what appeared to be a large weapons array at the front of the vessel the hull then opened out to a large slopped hull with four heat radiating fins on the forward hull. A central communication and sensor tower dominated the middle of the hull before the rear was comprised of a large box-like engine section with four vertical fins leaving the hull two from the top and two from the rear. The ship looked unlike most other WarShips ever fielded but the surprise was not the biggest surprise other than Loremaster Thomas Ward no-one else had been made aware of the Arbitration’s construction. Anger flew around the room as the Loremaster was accused of trying to build himself an armed force that could forge the newly agreed upon Free Guilds into their own Clan but Thomas Ward was clear the Arbitration would be the first and only vessel to serve Tukayyid and the Free Guilds escorting the trade ships between Tukayyid and Solaris all other vessels would be open to be trialled for by the Clans.
Trial of Mysticism
New Barcella, Nova Cat’s Den
Periphery
21st July 3106
Despite both the Khan and saKhan being out of the Nova Cat’s Den Oathmaster Klick Lenardon had ordered the first Trial of Mysticism to begin. In front of him the twenty sixteen year old warriors who had been trained since they were born to serve as Mystics in Clan Nova Cat stood in front of him ready for the Trial to begin. “You have been prepared for this since your birth you have been tested as far as we can psychologically now you must past a physical test. Your duty is clear you each must follow your beliefs search your souls and your body’s limits you will return to us in no less than thirty days after that time you will know who you are.” He said briefing them they would have to survive for thirty days without supplies and without outside assistance and without any weapons this test was designed to test their ability to adapt to the wilderness like a young nova cat each hoping to experience a vision.
Thirty days later only five of the students returned none of them had experienced a vision but they had survived and would become Mystics of the Nova Cat Clan with each beginning training to become MechWarriors and members of the Clan’s military wing. Fourteen of the other mystic candidates were never heard from again however the fifteenth finally did return ninety-six days after the beginning of his Trial of Mysticism. Dehydrated and malnourished Seth was babbling about a vision he had experienced while being injured during his Trial he talked about being cared for by a nova cat which had one of its front paws maimed he said the vision told him that an important part of the Nova Cat Clan would be lost and that it would never be recovered but that the Nova Cats would grow from the loss.
Lyran Commonwealth Guard Base
Gallery, Halfway Province
Lyran Commonwealth
28th July 3106
Lieutenant Aksel Youngblood stood on the tarmac looking at the Leopard-class DropShip which wore the Kell Hound and Crescent Hawk insignias. Yesterday Colonel Jeremy Kell had announced that the remaining Kell Hound Battalion would no longer be treated like a house unit of the Lyran Commonwealth and would seek employment beyond House Steiner. Jeremy Kell had then stated that the Crescent Hawks would be reformed and sent out on its own contracts in an effort to bring further like-minded warriors into the Kell Hound fold. Now four BattleMechs including Aksel’s Shadow Hawk X4M Land Air-Mech together with a second LAM and four ground bound BattleMechs they would reform the Crescent Hawks.
“Is this really a good idea?” Aksel asked glancing at his father Jeremiah Youngblood II. Jeremiah like thousands others had evacuated Arc Royal and joined the Mountain Wolf Clan on Gallery. He’d been the one who had suggested Aksel take the position as leader of the new Crescent Hawks.
“Nervous?”
“No” Aksel said looking back at the DropShip “yes” he admitted “why is the Colonel sending us away now?”
“Because the Crescent Hawks have always been good at finding out information and working behind the scenes” Jeremiah explained. “The Kell Hounds are heading into unknown territory it makes sense that the Crescent Hawks should see what is available out there and perhaps work out what opportunities they should avoid.”
“Lucky us” he said “well at least the Hawks rise once more.”
“Yes they do and this is for you” Jeremiah reached into his pocket and handed it to Aksel who turned it over in his hands. “Congratulations Captain Youngblood” he said smiling proudly the Crescent Hawks were now ready to go to work.
Three things about this update
1) Arbitration is a WarShip designed by marauder648, Vition2 and JA Baker (there will actually be two WarShips coming out of that little project)
2) The Free Guilds were originally a canon idea but they were written off as a mistake by Anastasius Focht. Blacknova had an approach with them in his Kapteyn Universe and now I'm using them.
3) Addition at the end is a homage to the recent Spotlight series exploring a potential gap created by my universe taking a different direction than canon.
The Arbitration-class is on this thread http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=55163.0 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=55163.0)
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Excellent update, Dragon Cat. I can see new dawn rising with this one.
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Great update! Wow another unit created under the nose of MIIO and DMI? ;D :-\ Keep it up
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The Clan Loremaster = (https://i.ytimg.com/vi/XZeET4WB2As/hqdefault.jpg) "A NEW POWER IS RISING!! Peacefully of course...." *eyes narrowing from the Khans* Interesting that they are opening Tukkayid to more trade and outsiders coming in, but its very much a Clan world.
I'm worried that Mordecai might try something...silly either against Jerome or the Combine and then pin it on Jerome. Its a case of "Mordecai..don't do the thing.." *DOES THE THING* "****** it Mordecai..."
The Trial of Mysticism, very high casualty rate but an interesting programme none the less. I wonder what that last vision was about...
And owie! The (tattered remnants of) Kell Hounds leaving Steiner's service could leave a big gap in their line against the Falcons.
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Interesting update. Wonder how the Kell Hounds leaving Steiner service will effect the Lyran Commonwealth politically. Also loved the Clan Council meeting pov. Great update! :D
James Tanaga
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Great update! Wow another unit created under the nose of MIIO and DMI? ;D :-\ Keep it up
"Merc" units are raised every day how they end up branded well...
And owie! The (tattered remnants of) Kell Hounds leaving Steiner's service could leave a big gap in their line against the Falcons.
Not much since Arc Royal they've been far from the lines on Gallery the Kell Hounds are not the force they once were.
Interesting update. Wonder how the Kell Hounds leaving Steiner service will effect the Lyran Commonwealth politically. Also loved the Clan Council meeting pov. Great update! :D
James Tanaga
Well if they turned their guns on Steiner I think there would be a problem but Morgan Kell is dead, Phelan is long dead, many Lyrans have seen the Kell Hounds as Clan Mountain Wolf's pet for many years. Now they get a chance to try and run on their own again.
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The first part of this update comes from James Tanaga I hope you enjoy it and the rest of the update.
Fire Mandrill Compound, Kelly Springs
Tukayyid
Clan Territory, Inner Sphere
2nd August, 3106
Natasha Faraday sat in her office, idly studying a recent Trial of Possession displayed on the holo-monitor, as she kept her subordinate waiting. The Trial of Possession in question was a small boon to her Clan, for it netted the Fire Mandrills production schematics for the Black Lanner OmniMech from the Falcons. In any other situation, she supposed she would have been impressed. Instead, she was furious.
On the holo-monitor, she watched as a point of her Clan’s new Cheyenne aerospace fighters unload two points of ProtoMechs onto the battlefield and then staying on station until a Fortress-class DropShip arrived. She shook her head; annoyed at seeing a supernova containing new updated versions of the Kanga and Svantovit Infantry Fighting Vehicle unload from the DropShip.
The Trial of Possession was only the first of the Trials of Possession by the Mandrills here at Tukayyid and all undertaken by the same subordinate she kept waiting outside. Star Captain Mary Fire Mandrill, a seventeen-year old Elemental-phenotype Warrior, could go far, very far, Natasha had decided, but only if she learnt patience.
The other Clans barely tolerated her Mandrills, the young Khan knew, and she wisely had ordered her Mandrills to keep within their small enclave on the planet, keen to keep her Clan from being entangled in the affairs of other Clans and the Ebon Guard. And the other Clans, excepting the Sea Foxes, accepted it. Only by a mere technicality was her Clan even considered Clan, reviled even by certain Clans more than the exiled Mountain Wolves.
It was not yet time for her Mandrills to come out of their dens, she had decided. Yet now they had no other option, for she knew the other Clans would not take the Mandrills recent incursions, even if they were unauthorized, lying down. The comm unit buzzed.
“Khan, Star Captain Mary-,” Natasha cut Jennifer, the female Laborer that served as her secretary off.
“I know,” the young Khan bit out. “Send her in.”
“Aff, Khan,” was the other Clan woman’s simple answer before closing the link. Soon the large, burly Warrior came in.
“Star Captain Mary Fire Mandrill reporting as ordered, Khan,” the younger Warrior growled out as she stood at attention, her hands going behind her back, feet apart. Natasha nodded approving.
Standing up, she herself soon copied the younger Warrior, even while she looked up into the mismatching green and grey eyes. A genetic oddity only seen in the woman’s and certain other sibko’s, she knew.
“You know why I have brought you here, quiaff,” she asked the younger Warrior, causing her to snort and roll her eyes.
“Aff,” the other woman simply replied.
“Humor me then, Star Captain. Were my orders too generalized? Or perhaps you did not understand them,” she asked the taller woman as she walked around her. “Or perhaps you were even goaded and too enraged to realize them?”
“Neg” she answered simply refusing to fabricate an answer, that alone was something to respect of the warrior Natasha decided. “I saw opportunities for our Clan, Khan, and exploited them,” Mary answered. “And by doing so, I have made our Clan stronger” she said proudly a trait that was unbecoming someone so young.
Natasha sighed. Ever since she refused to become the leader of the Rim Collection, she had lost much of her Warriors respect they believed that she should have seized control and turned the Rim Collection into the Fire Mandrill Occupation Zone making everyone take her Clan seriously. Mary was but one of those Warriors, she judged privately to herself. “Did it not occur to you our Clan is not yet in position to do just that, Star Captain?”
“If we had a stronger Khan, then perhaps I might have, Khan,” was her cold reply, confirming Natasha’s prior thoughts, causing Natasha to turn her back to the younger, taller Warrior despite her open hostility Natasha knew that Mary was too proud, too honourable, to strike her back.
“Then know this. Khan Teresia Cooper of the Horses has declared a Trial of Possession for production schematics of our new Vajra and Vijaya variants this morning,” she informed Mary.
“My supernova and I will meet them on the battlefield then, Khan,” was her answer.
“Neg,” she rebutted her subordinate.
“Neg?!”
“Neg,” Natasha confirmed her back still to the younger Mandrill Warrior intentionally trying to provoke Mary and keep any defences she had down the angrier she was the more it played into Natasha’s hands. “I and the Horse Khan agreed one of our Clan’s secondline Elemental points will face a point belonging to her own Keshik. Publically, I am scorning her and her Clan.”
“And privately you let her Clan have the advantage!” Natasha heard Mary rage.
“Perhaps,” the Mandrill Khan conceded. “Yet the point in question is entirely solahma. They do have the experience. Perhaps they will be victorious. Perhaps not.” She conceded it was something she had accepted as soon as the decision was made. “But in the end, our little scrap with the Horses will likely be forgotten by our Clans.”
“If you think I will take this lying down-“ the other Warrior spat out.
“You will, Star Captain.” Natasha said turning on Mary the Khan’s own gaze full of the authority of not a mear warrior speaking to another but a Khan talking to a subordinate. “For if you do not, I will declare your entire supernova dezgra and I will see you caste out to join the Dark or dead on the battlefield.” She gave her ultimatum to the younger Warrior. Moments passed as the younger, much taller Fire Mandrill Warrior sieved.
“You have done well, Star Captain. Soon, our Clan will begin producing Black Lanners, an old but worthy design, and license the Zephyros to Rim Motors as soon as we get back home,” she announced a moment later. “You are dismissed. Go out and celebrate your victories here on Tukayyid. We leave for home in two local days time.”
The other Warrior did not entertain Khan Faraday with an answer, merely cursing under her breath loudly, before leaving the room. Natasha sighed. She hated the fact she was forced to threaten her subordinate, but to safeguard her Clan’s very vulnerable position here on Tukayyid, she would follow through with her threat to her fellow Warrior. And then, she promised herself, she would commit seppuku.
“Khan,” Jennifer’s voice broke her from her thoughts. Turning to face the door, she saw the small, older Laborer holding the door for Khan Clarke of the Sea Foxes. Before long, both Khans were in talks on the Mandrills potentially providing the Sea Foxes with their newly won OmniMech. The Foxes in turn were ready to trade equally with the Mandrills knowing they would each get a fair deal.
Clan Council, Snow Raven Hall
Alpheratz, Raven Alliance
Periphery
7th August 3106
Communicating with the Clan Council via Hyper Pulse Generator from the WarShip Snow Raven Khan Vir Sukhanov appeared as a large hologram in front of the assembled bloodnamed warriors of the Snow Raven Clan. This was not how he would have preferred to communicate with the senior members of his Clan but it was necessary. “My fellow Ravens the other Clans see us as a joke living in the periphery at the beck-and-call of the Outworlds Alliance.” He said deciding to go with the shock factor to gain support from the other Ravens. “One of our Khans left to join the Inner Sphere abandoning her responsibilities” he said putting Sterling McKenna’s still strong supporters in their place “while another decided that working with the Draconis Combine was better than acting like a true Clan.” He said before anyone stood up for Jacob Siegel. “Clan Nova Cat gives us an opportunity”
“An opportunity to be taken as fools” Galaxy Commander Duncan Cooper said interrupting his Khan. Duncan was ten years older than Vir and had narrowly been beaten by the younger man to the position of Khan. When Vir had passed over him for the position of saKhan it had further angered the Elemental. “Since your little trip to the Nova Cat’s new holdings and then onto Tukayyid Clan Nova Cat have taken a further three periphery system” he said as a map to the side of Vir’s hologram highlighted Opia, Banton IV and Ghazen all as Nova Cat systems “we are helping them create another realm. Our arracks on the Draconis Combine will only serve to help them gain more territory while turning the Draconis Combine against us. A nation that could overwhelm us with the number of units they can bring against us.”
“Are you scared Duncan Cooper? We are members of Clan Snow Raven the only thing we should be scared of is being grounded.” Vir taunted the older man “I know the Nova Cats want to use us as a distraction and as a source of additional firepower to use against the Draconis Combine. I also know that we have dispatched units to these systems.” He said highlighting four other systems in the Periphery. “This will benefit us as well as benefit Clan Nova Cat. We will gain fighting experience which many of our units currently lack, we will gain resources which we can put towards new WarShip construction which given what I have seen of the new Arbitration-class is something we need to look at and more importantly we will regain some of the respect we have lost to the other Clans. After all of these years in the sidelines it is time for the Raven to soar.”
The Raven Khan’s impassioned speech won enough support for the Ravens to authorize the attacks on the Combine by the end of the month the Ravens had taken six Periphery planets and struck at the Draconis Combine world of Pentrine X while the Nova Cats had finished capturing the periphery planets and struck at Nowhere and Gravenhage capturing both and destroying elements of the DCMS’ Seventh Ghost Regiment which along with several other Ghost Regiments had recently been sent to the region following intelligence suggesting the Ravens were up to something.
Naval Launch, McKenna Shipyards
Kathil, Kathil PDZ
Capellan Marc, Federated Suns
13th August 3106
At the McKenna Shipyards above Kathil the former Clan Mountain Wolf vessel Killing Blow is relaunched as the FSS Killing Blow. After a period of refit the vessel has been modified from the Vincent Mk 42-class Corvette that the ship was into what the Kathil Shipworks call the Vincent Davion-class Destroyer and it is intended on being a competitor to the established Davion III-class Destroyer built by Galax. Launching alongside the Killing Blow is the FSS Vincent Davion a newly built vessel of the same class within hours both vessels are sold to the Federated Suns Admiralty with the Federated Suns Quartermasters confirming they are interested in further WarShips. The FSS Killing Blow is sent to be tested joining Fifth Battle Group in the Star League Protectorate.
Arrest Warrant
Prochnow Settlement, Devil’s Rock
Star League Protectorate
22nd August 3106
Standing behind the law enforcement officers encased in a Nighthawk XXI Power Armour suit all Captain Morgan Christifori could think about was this was not why he joined the SLDF alongside him another member of his company stood in his Nighthawk suit waiting for the answer from the gang members.
“We are here to issue an arrest warrant for Bobby Winchester who is wanted for crimes committed on Saffel including the murder of the Duke of Saffel and the theft of the Duke’s BattleMech.” One officer said to the doorman “we don’t want any trouble” he said as the man looked up at the two Nighthawk suits standing silently behind them. On most planets the presence of two Battle Armour suits would be considered overkill but not on Devil’s Rock this entire region was dominated by people loyal to the Pronchnow family with Devil’s Rock a distant second and the SLDF as close to an enemy as there could be this was hostile territory despite the way the media tried to spin it.
“He isn’t available”
“Then make him available” the enforcement officer demanded Morgan glanced at his sensors and saw there was at least four movement markers behind the doors. For the umpteenth time he checked his rifle. He’d originally wanted to take a BattleMech lance down the street but command on Devil’s Rock had deemed that too provocative.
“I mean he isn’t here left three days ago is heading for Marik space” he said looking between the two enforcement officers and the Battle Armour.
“Can we enter to check for ourselves?”
“Only with a warrant” the man said laughing as he slammed the door closed. The enforcement officer was about to tap the door again but Morgan leaned forward and pulled the man back.
“Dark One to Barkeep” he said cursing whoever chose the call-signs for this mission according to Alex they were ‘completely random.’
“Go ahead Timbiqui” Alex replied Morgan could see the smile on her face.
“Dark One and Two are pulling out with Bottle-caps. Repeat we are pulling out keep eyes on area.”
“Understood unforeseen issues?” She asked
“Yeah something about a warrant”
“Cheers to that Timbiqui Barkeep out” she replied Alex and the rest of their unit were on the perimeter running the operation from a distance. Morgan had wanted his command closer but the Governor of Devil’s Rock had vetoed the move.
“We’re going now, this job just became more difficult,” he said to the enforcement officers “this isn’t something we can win today. Get in and go we’ll keep up.” He commanded “Two we’re running out” he said to the other trooper their Jump Jets would let them cover the transport from different angles if needed but they both knew that their Mech Support was five-ten minutes out at best. They moved out of the area quickly and were not attacked back at their SLDF Encampment Morgan’s greatest fear had been confirmed since the SLDF could not for one hundred percent confirm that Bobby Winchester was in the compound and that the stolen Huron Warrior was present Mech Support was not authorized nor was a breach of the Prochnow estate until they were sure. In effect their “Active” mission had been downgraded to “Observation.” He was going to be stuck on Devil’s Rock a bit longer.
There was a second part to James Tanaga's update which was awesome but I've decided to hold onto it as it will be the first pebbles of what could become an land slide... ;)
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Good Write Up guys!
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Great stuff folks :) Damn nice writing as always and good to see the Mandril's at it still.
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Excellent update as always.
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Snow Ravens and Nova Cats taking the fight to the DC.
Liking it. O0
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And in case folks were wondering the Vajra and Vijaya are from this thread - http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=55099.0 and are detailed below.
Svantovit Mk II/Vajra
The Svantovit was seen as a Maxim IIC by the Inner Sphere and they may not have been too far wrong. Designed to carry troops to battle and then support them the Svan gave good service but it was getting a bit dated.
Its main flaws were its thin armoured hide and the general short range of its weapons that meant exposing the vehicle to too much return fire, and this was fire its armour could not withstand, especially when it stopped to unload its troops.
Whilst seeking to retain the Svan's firepower the Horses looked at 'sprucing up' the design to make it more capable on the modern battlefield. Central to this was the instillation of an XL engine. This saved a considerable amount of weight whilst allowing the vehicle to retain its formidable speed.
Built around a 5-ton cargo bay that was built to take Elementals the new bay featured hook up points to charge the Elemental's batteries from the Svan's reactor as well as enough supplies to rearm a point even if fully depleted.
The dual LRM-5's were mounted in the turret and they were joined by a pair of ER Medium lasers to give hard fire against hostile vehicles and battle armour. Anti infantry firepower was also improved with a pair of AP Gauss rifles, also mounted in the turret.
An ECM was fitted to the comms system whilst a bow mounted Light TAG would allow the Svan to call on artillery support in the approach to its target or whilst supporting its troops.
An extra ton of armour was also added to help protect the IFV and its precious cargo. Whilst more expensive and difficult to maintain (the turret took two years of field modifications to get working correctly), and thanks to the added weight a bit more difficult to pilot the Mk II was accepted into service. Due to the sheer number of changes the tank was officially renamed the Vajra. Although its crews referred to it the SLUFF, (Short Little Ugly Fat ******) all be it in an endearing way thanks to its squat but broad profile and 'fat rear end'.
Varja IFV
Mass: 35 tons
Tech Base: Clan
Motive Type: Hovercraft
Rules Level: Advanced Rules
Era: Dark Ages
Tech Rating/Era Availability: X/X-X-X-A
Production Year: 3132
Cost: 4,157,917 C-Bills
Battle Value: 1,192
Power Plant: 175 Fusion XL Engine
Cruise Speed: 108.0 km/h
Flanking Speed: 162.0 km/h
Armor: Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
2 ER Medium Lasers
2 LRM-5s
2 AP Gauss Rifles
1 Light TAG
1 Unknown CASE
1 Infantry Bay (5.0 tons)
1 ECM Suite
Manufacturer:
Primary Factory:
Communications System:
Targeting and Tracking System:
================================================================================
Equipment Type Rating Mass
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Internal Structure: Standard 20 points 3.50
Engine: XL Fusion Engine 175 5.50
Cruise MP: 10
Flank MP: 15
Heat Sinks: Single Heat Sink 10 0.00
Control Equipment: 2.00
Lift Equipment: 3.50
Turret: 0.50
Armor: Ferro-Fibrous AV - 76 4.00
Armor
Factor
Front 20
Left/Right 14/14
Turret 16
Rear 12
================================================================================
Equipment Location Heat Spaces Mass
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Light TAG FR 0 1 0.50
2 LRM-5s T 4 2 2.00
2 AP Gauss Rifles T 2 2 1.00
2 ER Medium Lasers T 10 2 2.00
CASE BD - 0 0.00
Infantry Bay (5.0 tons) BD 0 1 5.00
ECM Suite BD 0 1 1.00
@LRM-5 (24) BD - 0 1.00
@AP Gauss Rifle (80) BD - 0 2.00
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 3 Points: 12
10h 3 3 1 0 1 0 Structure: 2
Special Abilities: LTAG, CASE, ECM, TUR(3/3/1), IF 1
A variant was also produced with an eye to acting as a support vehicle, packing greater firepower at the cost of its troop capacity and some speed. Called the Vijaya the hovercraft's speed dropped to 120kph but it retained the XL fusion plant of the Vajra.
A pair of Mech Mortar 8 and their shared 5 ton's of ammo provided the main firepower and whilst short ranged was useful in built up terrain and was immune to jamming or an AMS. The flexible ammunition system also allowed for different types of munitions to be loaded. A pair of ER Small lasers were also mounted in the turret and provided firepower in the mortar's dead zone.
A pair of LRM-5's were also mounted in the bow of the machine, each drawing from a shared ton of ammo. Whilst slower than the Vajra, the Vijaya would often be sent ahead of the IVF and get into a firing position to provide covering fire. In a full combined Star of the two the ideal mix was seen as 6 Vajra IFV's supported by four Vijaya's. This would bring 30 Elemental battlesuits to an engagement as well as a solid mix of heavy firepower both direct and indirect.
Vijaya Light Artillery hover tank.
Mass: 45 tons
Tech Base: Clan
Motive Type: Hovercraft
Rules Level: Advanced Rules
Era: Dark Ages
Tech Rating/Era Availability: X/X-X-X-A
Production Year: 0
Cost: 3,990,000 C-Bills
Battle Value: 849
Power Plant: 125 Fusion XL Engine
Cruise Speed: 86.4 km/h
Flanking Speed: 129.6 km/h
Armor: Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
2 LRM-5s
2 Mech Mortar 8s
2 ER Small Lasers
1 Unknown CASE
Manufacturer:
Primary Factory:
Communications System:
Targeting and Tracking System:
================================================================================
Equipment Type Rating Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Standard 25 points 4.50
Engine: XL Fusion Engine 125 3.00
Cruise MP: 8
Flank MP: 12
Heat Sinks: Single Heat Sink 10 0.00
Control Equipment: 2.50
Lift Equipment: 4.50
Turret: 1.50
Armor: Ferro-Fibrous AV - 76 4.00
Armor
Factor
Front 20
Left/Right 14/14
Turret 16
Rear 12
================================================================================
Equipment Location Heat Spaces Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2 LRM-5s FR 4 2 2.00
2 Mech Mortar 8s T 20 2 10.00
2 ER Small Lasers T 4 2 1.00
CASE BD - 0 0.00
@Mortar 8 (Airburst) (20) BD - 0 5.00
@LRM-5 (24) BD - 0 1.00
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 3 Points: 8
8h 3 4 3 0 2 0 Structure: 3
Special Abilities: CASE, TUR(2/3/2, IF 1/2/2), IF 2
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O0
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Nice write up
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Was the use of the name "Vajra" related to Macross Frontier by chance... :)
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Was the use of the name "Vajra" related to Macross Frontier by chance... :)
Hah no, not intentional I assure you. I just went with weapons from mythology or names that are related to the original vehicles names. Or ancient weapons (the Zulu spear and club for example with the Oro variants)
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Command Base, Eleventh Aucturan Guards Command
Rasalgethi, Arcturus Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
1st September 3106
“Leutenant Sortek reporting as ordered” Jason Sortek said standing to attention in front of General Sebastian Fuch the commander of the Eleventh Aucturan Guards RCT.
“You did well yesterday Leutenant” the General said after a moment “your lance downed two OmniMech and three armoured vehicles as well as keeping that assault star at range. And I believe you personally eliminated a point of enemy ProtoMechs?”
“Yes sir they attempted to flank my lance I engaged the ProtoMechs while my lance maintained their fire on the rest of the Clan forces it was simply the right distribution of the weapons we had. We were told to keep the Hell’s Horses at bay and we did sir.” Sortek answered
“Ja” Fuch agreed the Horses surprise attack on Rasagethi had come following their conquest of Orkney and Toumans at least a cluster of Horses had probed the Aucturan Guards for four days before withdrawing. “You have done well over the last several weeks.”
“Thank you General” Jason Sortek said accepting the praise
“As a result of your little performance here I’ve decided to promote you to Hauptmann” Fuch said standing up from behind his desk slicking his greying hair back as he saw the pride break out on Sortek’s younger face.
“Thanks you sir” Sortek said shaking the older man’s hand his brown eyes blazing with pride showing the General how much he appreciated the decision.
“You’ve earned it” Fuch said “I’m moving you up to Hamilton’s company.”
“Caroline was a good company commander” Sortek said “will my lance be joining Ham… my company?” He asked beginning to think of his new enlarged command.
“I wouldn’t want to break up a good match” Fuch confirmed “however your new company went through the thick of it against the Horses perhaps you may consider Harris for one of the lance slots?”
“Anthony has a good head on him, sir, I couldn’t have done what I did yesterday without him he deserves some recognition.”
“Very good I’ll cut the papers” Fuch said shaking Sortek’s hand a second time “and Hauptmann you can inform Mr Harris of the news.”
“Thank you sir” Sortek said nodding his head slightly in thanks to the RCT commander before leaving the office ready to take on the new challenge. His first business was to see Anthony Harris the young man deserved to learn of his promotion, next was to check on the company he now commanded they had lost five warriors in the last battle against the Horses seven Mechs had been destroyed but two warriors had been recovered, finally he’d check on his BattleMech which had been all but destroyed in the last minutes of the battle outside the capital. Jason Sortek stopped about five steps from General Fuch’s office and suddenly wondered when he started thinking of others and his command before his own BattleMech… perhaps the General had him figured out after all.
Royal Birth, Medical Facility
Dormuth, Marik
District of Marik, Free Worlds League
8th September 3106
On Marik Captain-General Joseph Marik’s fourth child Aaron Marik is born with both newborn and his mother Lucy Marik doing well. This good news spreads quickly throughout the Free Worlds League just as the District of Regulus secure Wisconsin, Ayn Tarma and Skvorec from the disrupted space between the Free Worlds League and Magistracy of Canopus. On Wisconsin the First Rim Sentinels which had been contesting the planet with the Magistracy withdraw into the District of Lesnovo turning control over to the Regulan troops. These victories further strengthen the Regulans position in the Free Worlds League and further cut off the District of Oriente from the other nations of the Free Worlds League with their entire internal border held by the District of Regulus.
Skirmish
Robinson, Robinson PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
18th September 3106
After weeks of patrolling past each other and passing in the street a company of warriors loyal to Mordecai Sandoval engage in a firefight with a patrol from the First Robinson Rangers RCT neither side lose any personnel or suffer serious equipment damage before their commanders order both sides to disengage. Duke Jerome Sandoval issues a strongly worded message to Mordecai Sandoval relating to any further “accidents” and the consequences of such an occurrence.
From New Avalon First Prince Burton Davion issues his own ultimatum to both parties that if they do not resolve the conflict that he would finish it. Unwilling to begin a Civil War in the the Draconis March Duke Jerome Sandoval announces the creation of the First Robinson Defenders Regiment, under Mordecia’s command, which will replace the Robinson Draconis March Militia unit. To give the new command deployment experience he assigns the Defenders to Lima alongside the Fourth Robinson Rangers LCT.
Naval Battle
Wing, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
27th September 3106
“I repeat this is Kapten Anne Wilson of the LCS Mitchell Simmons to incoming WarShips identify yourself and your reason for being in this system.” She said looking at the screen at the four WarShips approaching her Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser and the LCS Durance. “Can we identify them?” Wilson asked looking at the screens.
“Warbook places the closest ship to them as a Lola III but there are too many differences between them and the Lola III.”
“This is what the Wolves have been working on at Tamarind.” Wilson mused “can we contact Wing get them to send a message to Wyatt and call in the Davion ships?” She asked the four House Davion WarShips on loan to the were based there reinforcing the Lyran position in those systems now that Clan Wolf was stretching its paws once more she needed their help more than ever.
“Negative massive jamming from the Wolf vessels” her communications officer said “oh my god they are blossoming!” He said looking at the screens as aerospace fighters launched from the incoming WarShips ten, twenty, thirty they continued to launch.
“How many Mr Allen?” Wilson asked looking at the screens losing count.
“One hundred-sixty” he replied as the fighters orientated themselves into their individual combat starts behind them small craft were also organizing themselves into units.
“Contact the Wolves we surrender and have the Durance do the same.”
“Sir?” One of the crew asked surprised
“We would struggle to resist two of the Destroyers even with support from the ground we have less chance against four of them and no chance with that many aerospace fighters. I won’t see this crew killed fighting a battle they cannot win” she said angrily she wanted to resist the Wolves but knew that she could not win and she would not sacrifice her crew. “Someone else will win this fight.”
She said watching as the Durance accelerated past the Simmons ignoring the stand down order “Hopkins don’t do this” she said keying in her communications link “Durance, this is the Simmons, if you do this I will have to order my crew to engage I will have to order my crew to die” she said lifting her finger off the communication button “bring up the engines twenty-five percent if we get pulled into this I don’t want to be flat-footed. No targeting” she ordered looking at the screen and the closing Wolf WarShips “com’on Hopkins!” She almost shouted “you must see we cannot win this fight it doesn’t matter if we live of die here! Com’on answer me you son-of-a-bitch I don’t want to die here today not in a meaningless fight. Give me an honest fight and I will beat them but don’t throw it away like this.” She said passionately begging the Durance’s commander not to engage the incoming Wolves. Watching the incoming Wolves she thought rapidly “give me communication with the Wolves now!” She commanded her crew nodded a moment later “this is Kapten Anne Wilson to the incoming Wolf forces we are ready to surrender this system to you but your overwhelming show of force shows that you cannot defeat us in a straight battle which the Commander of the Durance cannot accept. I challenge you to a Trial of Possession for this system” she said rapidly thinking as the Durance continued to close “I bid the LCS Mitchell Simmons, LCS Durance and their support craft in the defence of this system.” She said watching as the four WarShips continued to close “ready weapons” she said as the Durance entered firing range with the Wolf WarShips suddenly the Clan formation opened up the four WarShips splitting ranks two going either side of the Lyran vessels. Wilson braced herself for the inevitable broadside attacks from the Clan vessels but the attacks did not come instead the four WarShips and their aerospace fighters flew straight past the Lyran vessels turning around behind them.
“Lyran vessels we accept your challenge two of our vessels and our aerospace fighters will engage you the other vessels will remain inactive unless attacked.”
Sometime later the Commander of the Wolf naval forces sat on the command bridge of the Grey Wolf as the vessel followed its sister-ship the Red Wolf. “Helm officer keep us in their wake and on their port side wherever the Red Wolf goes I want us to maintain station quiaff?”
“Aff sir”
“They cannot win Star Admiral why do they try this?” the Executive officer asked watching the screens as the WarShips closed their aerospace fighters remaining close to the ships. The Lyrans were flying side by side the DropShips and fighters sheltered between them.
“They are men and women of honour”
“They are desperate” he replied a moment later looking back at the weapons console as they entered weapons range.
“Destroy the Coventry first with our capital weapons, have the AR-15 and our conventional guns cut down the DropShips half of our fighters are to strike at their fighters while the others strike directly at the Hyperion. Copy all orders to the Red Wolf.” He commanded as both sets of WarShips opened fire “as expected the two Lyran WarShips are concentrating on Red Wolf.”
“Red Wolf turning”
“Helm officer maintain our position if the Lyrans are concentrating then so are we. Observation track where the Red Wolf fire and send to weapons for follow up fire.” Even as particle cannons, capital missiles, naval autocannons and naval lasers tore into the first Wolf WarShip. From the two Wolf WarShips quad mounts of Naval Autocannons, Naval Lasers and Particle Cannons slammed into the front of the incoming Hound-class Corvette. In a single exchange the two hundred and forty thousand ton Corvette was reduced to a pitted ruin which continued on its ballistic course as the WarShips passed each other both Wolf Destroyers opened fire with their broadside weapons tearing open the side of the crippled Corvette and destroying the Lyran DropShips.
Shielded by the destruction of the Corvette the Hyperion continued to fire on the two WarShips with its broadside mounted particle cannons and aft naval lasers with several shots striking the aft sections of the Grey Wolf. “Red Wolf pivoting” the sensor officer reported watching the silhouette of the other destroyer.
“Follow the maneuver, weapons stations compensate for movement, helm officer our position is now ahead of the Red Wolf. Communications have Red Wolf support their aerospace fighters and eliminate the final enemy fighters our fighters are to continue to engage the heavy cruiser.” The Admiral said watching the screens the Grey Wolf’s aerospace fighters were already swarming the Hyperion while the Red Wolf’s attacked the Hyperion. As the two Wolf WarShips turned end-over-end in space particle cannons, naval lasers and capital missiles struck them causing more damage.
“Hull breach section fourteen emergency bulkheads were closed we’re still air tight.”
“Bring the main array onto the heavy cruiser, helm officer take us to full thrust and down their gut.” He commanded looking at the screen as the Grey Wolf settled and accelerated towards the Heavy Cruiser was heavier than the Grey Wolf and its weapon arrays were formidable. “Keep us at an angle with them, weapons officer hit them as we pass and keep hitting them.” He commanded as the two WarShips closed the aerospace fighters were causing heavy damage all on their own distracting the heavy cruiser forcing it to divert its fire. As they closed the particle cannons of the Hyperion were beginning to show their worth burning holes in the Grey Wolf’s armour however it also worked to the advantage of the Wolf WarShip with its naval autocannons coming into play from under and above the nose of the destroyer four naval autocannons spat out fire hitting the enemy vessel smashing open the armour. As the destroyer turned further autocannons along the hull opened fire further exploiting the heavy cruiser’s damaged hull. With repeated autocannon and particle cannons strikes ripping into the Lyran WarShip the heavy cruiser’s fight was over and with it the battle was finished Wing belonged to the Wolves. In the following days the systems of Gacrux, Pheoda and Chertan followed Wing into Clan Wolf’s possession more importantly the Wolves had successfully debuted their new WarShip class and deprived the Lyrans of two capital vessels.
The Lola IV-class Destroyer http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=55254.new#new (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=55254.new#new)
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Nice update! Regulans trying to make a play for Oriente? Nice Space Battle and story.
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Oriente's position looks very bad.
The Lyran's are really having a bad time in naval combat. O0
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Great update Dragon Cat! Excellent writing and shenanigans as always :)
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Looks the AFFS is going to need to look at replacing the Block III Davion in light of recent events. Frankly I've not been terribly impressed with the III as the only thing they seem to do reliably do is get their teeth knocked in by everything they've fought in this AU.
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Looks the AFFS is going to need to look at replacing the Block III Davion in light of recent events. Frankly I've not been terribly impressed with the III as the only thing they seem to do reliably do is get their teeth knocked in by everything they've fought in this AU.
They've needed a new Davion for a while...
Which led to the development of this class...
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=55328.msg1272770#msg1272770 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=55328.msg1272770#msg1272770)
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She's a potent thing, not bad for something that started out as the distinctly underwhelming Vincent.
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Another update. My continued thanks to James Tanaga for the Fire Mandrill story and I guess my continued apologies to any Lyran and Combine fans... Things will get better
Draconis Combine Defence
Land’s End, Land’s End Prefecture
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
9th October 3106
The Draconis Combine’s Periphery region is ravaged by a further series of attacks from Clans Snow Raven and Nova Cat. In the defence of Land’s End the recently reformed Eleventh Ghost Regiment attempts to resist the Snow Raven assault utilizing companies of brand-new equipment including the Ixtab Hovertank. The Ixtab was based off Draconis Combine intelligence regarding the Nova Cat’s Cizin Hovertank using four extended-range medium lasers and two twin-tube short range missile launchers. The Ixtab utilizes heavy ferro-fibrous armour making it a tough nut to crack but lacks the integral CASE found on the Nova Cat vehicle. Regardless the Ixtab gives the Combine unit the flexibility to flank the Snow Raven ground forces keeping them on edge unfortunately even the speed and durability of the Ixtab cannot counter the Snow Ravens air superiority and the Ghosts are forced from the system with barely a combined arms battalion of their forces remaining.
As the Nova Cats seize three systems and the Snow Ravens seize four the Draconis Combine Government calls for assistance from the Star League Defence Force to help resist the Clans. The SLDF dispatch the Second Kittery Regimental Brigade, Stone’s Liberators, from Milos along with the WarShip SLS Truce of Tukayyid, a Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser, the SLS Republic, a Republic-class Frigate, and several assault DropShips as escort.
FWL Assault
Landfall, Lothian League
Periphery
15th October 3106
“I completely disagree with this course of action!” Colonel John R Wrangler almost shouted looking at the Free Worlds League officer and then to the other mercenary commander. “I mean no offence Major Miller but The Thunder Road work better when they are deployed alone and under my direct command.” He said angrily looking first at the younger mercenary and then back to the Free Worlds League command Colonel Arthur Tressler.
“As do the Mailed Fist” Thomas Miller agreed “our contract specifically says that the Mailed Fist will remain completely under my command.”
“Paragraph fourteen; section C, in the event that the Free Worlds League commander deems it necessary operational command will transfer to them.” Tressler said “I am the Free Worlds League Commander and I have deemed it necessary.” He said glancing between the two men “your units will work together under my command. Colonel Wrangler your forces will secure our central and eastern flans Major Miller your forces will hold the west. My command element will move through the centre with The Thunder Road we will overrun the Lothian defenders in this area and secure the capital.”
“Sir, with respect our combined forces number more than two regiments of the latest equipment. Intelligence suggests that the local mercenary forces have a regiment of forces mostly infantry with their Mechs of a Fourth Succession-era vintage. We should negotiate.” Wrangler stressed not looking forward to the prospect Tressler’s own company would probably be enough to break them.
“I agree it will be a slaughter” Miller said
“These are my orders” Tressler ordered
“I will lodge a formal complaint with the MRBC we didn’t sign on to slaughter those that cannot defend themselves.”
“Neither did we” Miller agreed
“I pay you paychecks gentlemen and you will carry out my commands.” He said as the two mercenary commanders suggested the following battle was a slaughter with the local defenders completely wiped out by the attack. Both mercenary units lodged formal complaints with the MRBC and FWL government over the unnecessary attack while Grand Mistress Clarissa Logan announced that she had formally taken control of Lothario and the Lothian League government and seeks peace with the Free Worlds League and Lyran Commonwealth.
Trial of Possession
Pasig, Hell’s Horses Occupation Zone
Clan Occupied Space, Inner Sphere
24th October 3106
During a successful Trial of Possession for control of the Pasig system Clan Sea Fox deploy several new BattleMechs which look like the Thanatos BattleMech deployed by the Inner Sphere. Analysis of the BattleMechs suggests that this new design is sixty tons in weight and is capable of matching the movement profile of the Inner Sphere Mech it resembles. The BattleMech dubbed the Thanatos IIC appears to be armed with several different types of laser weapon, an anti-personnel gauss rifle and a twelve-tube Advanced Tactical Missile Launcher.
The deployment of this BattleMech only a few months after the deployment of the Thanatos TNS-4E by the Lyran Commonwealth and the use of ATMs on both designs suggest a link between the Sea Foxes and House Steiner that goes deeper than simply a trade alliance.
Lost
Rim Collection, Periphery
27th October, 3106
“Damnit!” Star Captain Bryan Chrisholm cursed as he looked out his cockpit, turning away from his target. The Elysium was getting hit by everything the Stone Spirit WarShip could hit her with. Even at this distance, he could see the Elysium was on its final legs. He knew this battle would be its last. Win, lose, or draw, the Whirlwind-class destroyer was done for.
Yet it was giving as good as it was receiving, he well knew. Already, he could see heavy damage done to the enemy WarShip’s aft section, primarily around the WarShip’s massive engine blocks.
The Stone Spirit warship, an ancient Dart-class Light Cruiser if he remembered right, jumped into the system two days ago, carrying four DropShips. One, a near-extinct Miraborg-class DropShip, carried the entire aerospace asset for the force. The two Titan Monitors the Rim Collection had in the system had already severely damaged it. He knew two other Stone Spirit DropShips had stormed their way to Lost.
As he turned his Kirghiz around, he could only shake his head as the Elysium began breaking up. Yet its sacrifice allowed them victory, he noted, as his eyes tracked incoming missile fire from both Titan Monitors. He took aim and fired, sending two ER PPC blasts in tandem into one of the cruiser’s impressive weapons banks on its starboard side.
Again and again, he and his fellow Warriors, assisted by the Titan Monitors and then later, the regular Titan, slowly, but firmly crippled the proud warship. He and the other aerospace fighter pilots would target weapon banks after weapon banks, while the Titans targeted the warship itself.
Soon, he could see lifeboats and lifepods ejecting from the now-crippled warship. Over his radio, he idly noted the surviving Stone Spirit crew of the WarShip comm. in their surrender. Still, he and his fellow pilots continued hammering the ancient Dart until finally he could see the power finally flicker then die all across the ship.
“Echo Trinary; begin escorting the lifeboats and pods to Lazy Monkey. Repeat. Echo Trinary begin escorting the survivors to Lazy Monkey,” Star Captain Abraham Lynn of the Infernal Howl, his DropShip commander, reported over his radio.
“Echo-One here. Roger that, Infernal. All pilots begin escort duties to the Lazy Monkey. Over,” he ordered into his radio. As his fellow pilots reported in, he noted just how close the battle had nearly turned against them, as he and his point mate passed the Gleamed Eye, one of two Titan Monitors in the DropShip star. He shook his head, as he forced himself not to stare at the damage done to its ventral port side. Soon, he and his fellow pilots began to escort the surviving Stone Spirit bondsmen to the RCJS Lazy Monkey, the Odyssey-class JumpShip that served as his DropShip star’s transport.
Wedding, Subtlety (McKenna MOD)
Galatea, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
30th October 3106
On board the training WarShip Subtlety Captain William Leroy-Dietrich and his fiancée Commander America Park marry in front of the ship’s complement and many others from the other ships of the travelling college. The two take a leave of absence from the Subtlety travelling to the world of Skye for their honeymoon taking a cruise through the lakes of Skye on a luxury yacht.
During their visit to Skye Duchess of Skye Ilsa Kelswa-Aten attempts to recruit the Leroy-Deitrich and his crew to the Isle of Skye offering them riches beyond their dreams. Leroy-Dietrich respectfully declines stating that the Subtlety will continue to remain an independent WarShip training anyone who desires their assistance in the Galatea system.
RCJS Lazy Monkey (Odyssey-class JumpShip)
Lost, Rim Collection
Periphery
31st October, 3106
Bryan sat in the ready room onboard the RCJS Lazy Monkey, idly watching the collage of holo-images and video being sent out from Lyran space. From back of him, he heard a whistle coming from Star Commander Anastasia. “Looks the dezgra Spirits are finally on the move, ovKhan,” she spoke out loud.
“Aff,” Star Captain Jose Carrol reported, as the holo-screen shifted to a map displaying the Stone Spirit, Lyran Commonwealth, and Rim Collection borders. “We have confirmed reports the Spirits have begun their assault on five systems.”
Bryan was shocked. How the hell- He sensed his fellow Warriors felt the same as he by the news; gob smacked. Anastasia voiced all of their thoughts. “How in the hell did the dezgra Spirits of all people just rammed the the Lyrans a new one, ovkhan?!”
“You want the simple answer or the complex one, Star Commander,” Jose answered in kind.
“Preferably both, but simple will do for now,” Bryan answered up, less he appear to the others as being unable to lead.
“Alright,” Jose Carrol sighed out as he brushed his hair. “Spirits are using simple isolate and overwhelm tactics all across the board. Their ground units are scattering the Lyrans with overwhelming firepower.” The older Warrior added as an afterthought. “The Lyrans stripped the Periphery border in favour of sending units into a meat-grinder against the Jade Falcons and Hell's Horses. As is with all things when peace came to the Falcon border the worlds there still liked the defences they had, the units liked the additional facilities available further into the Inner Sphere and the units that should have been rotated back to the periphery remained on the Falcon border." He explained "the Eighth Commonwealth Guards and the Fourteenth Lyran Regulars RCT are garrisoning multiple worlds they cannot bring their full weight to bear in defence. Aside from the Eighth's Second Battalion on Canal, all their garrisons are being hit hard. I doubt we will be seeing much more of those units ever again.”
Bryan nodded to himself. “What about the Dismal Disinherited,” he asked out loud.
“The Spirits have hit their garrisons on Kwangjong-ni, Ma'anshan and Issba counting down the three systems” Jose informed them. “Judging by the reports, seem like the dezgra mercs will be facing an over-strengthened galaxy just on their own. If that is true,” he didn’t need to finish.
“The dezgra mercs are in for a world of hurt,” Bryan ended the thought.
“Can the Lyrans push back the Spirits,” questioned Warrior Michael Fitzgerald, one of two Collection Freeborn Warriors in their unit.
Though Jose shook his head, Bryan turned his head to the back in Michael’s direction. “Not without WarShip and heavy DropShip support, Mike, and we all know the Lyrans allocation of assault DropShips to the Periphery.”
“You mean none, quiaff,” chuckled out his point mate Jasmine, causing many to laugh. "They still have the LCS Morgan Kell and LCS Arthur Steiner Davion" Jasmine noted naming the Fox-class and Hyperion-class WarShips if they could utilize them correctly they could put a dent in the Stone Spirit assault." She noted with brought even more laughter few of them expected the Lyrans to use their naval forces correctly.
Once the laughter had settled, everyone once became serious. “Even if the Lyrans use said support correctly, I doubt it would do them any good,” remarked Star Commander Helena Fire Mandrill, a survivor from the Elysium. “As noted what units they have in area are not front-line units.”
“I noticed that too,” Bryan admitted. “Pass the mercs at Kwangjong-ni, Ma'anshan and Issba; the Spirits have nearly a free run deep into Lyran space if they feel like pushing. The Lyran militia forces in this region are laughing stocks. They only need to hit the Ninth Regulars and their depot at Millerton to safeguard their flank. My guess is they attacked us here to safeguard their other flank, quiaff?” he queried Jose.
“Aff,” the older Warrior answered. “Before our forces ground side managed to stop the Spirits, they nearly destroyed our primary supply depot. Most of our missiles and ballistics were destroyed, along with a good chunk of our spare parts.”
“There goes our vacation into the Stone Spirit wilderness,” joked Star Commander Toga.
“I am afraid your safari into the Stone Spirit jungle has been put on hold Toga,” Jose humored the teenager Star Commander, causing some chuckles throughout the room. “The RCS Firestorm is escorting the RCS Providence here. Our orders are to safeguard the crippled Spirit of York and our new bondsmen as well as give support to the First Rim Rangers and Seventh Rim Strikers planet side. Only when the RCS Providence is away with the Spirit of York will our safari begin,” he answered ferally. “Until then, we keep a watchful eye on the border, quiaff?”
“Aff!” Bryan and his fellow Warriors answered in kind. All knew their Clan was going to have fun with the Stone Spirits. For now, they just needed to be patient. Nothing hard, quiaff?
Falling back from the Stone Spirit attacks the Dismal Disinherited Mercenary Brigade had lost approximately a Regiment of BattleMechs and support units. The Eighth Commonwealth Guards had effectively been destroyed with only a single combined arms Battalion remaining on Canal while Fourteenth Lyran Guards RCT were heavily engaged on several worlds and were trying to regroup on Baryshevo.
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Very nice update Dragon Cat! With their large military i'm surprised the DCMS is loosing so many worlds, but its being hit by two separate Clans who's performance complements each other really. And there's a major naval threat too.
The Lyrans are in yet more trouble, but hopefully the SLDF and Fedsuns forces are still in the region to help them out, and the wedding was very well done :)
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LOL why is it the Lyrans almost always seem to be getting pasted in nearly every AU story?
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Interesting things going on in the Northeast.
There appears to be somewhat of a line of defenses in the that area of the Draconis Combine, but the level of successes and lack of resistance so far appears to mean the Cats and Ravens took them by surprise. The 11th Ghost being taken down relatively quickly is probably concerning as they were likely meant to blunt or slow assaults from that direction. But they still have the rest of the line at Algale, Kamarod, Multan, and Soul. They also have the capability of offensive actions launched from the Suianheer/Pondicherry/Tabayama area, where they have 5 units, and 3 more if they include New Samarkand units - many of these 8 units are elites. In addition they have 7 warships near the Raven border (though as many as 3 may be in repairs or overhaul) and another 4 which appear to be located deep in Draconis control which may be able to be tasked to the assaulting area. With the 2 warships and 2 SLDF units, they may end up being at near parity - depending on how many resources the Ravens are willing to shove into the assault.
As for the Lyrans and Dracs getting the snot beat out of them for a bit, I take the view that if your faction isn't getting kicked in the butt, they aren't doing anything. >:D
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Well all we need is the Bears to join in and then there will be much nervous sweating in the DCMS.
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I'm pleasantly surprised that the Thunder Road made appearance. :D I guess the Free Worlds League has a some social general working with them.
Too bad about the Dart, i don't think it was destroyed but it be nice catch to have and do the wondrous upgrades everyone gets their ships in this AU.
Great Update, Dragon Cat. Alot interesting shifts in the dynamics of your universe.
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DC any chance that Dart could be salvaged.
If only the Lyran social generals would stop bending over to bow to each other then they would not get kicked. :D
I wonder how deep that arrangement between the Lyrans and the Sea Foxes goes. O0
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DC any chance that Dart could be salvaged.
If only the Lyran social generals would stop bending over to bow to each other then they would not get kicked. :D
I wonder how deep that arrangement between the Lyrans and the Sea Foxes goes. O0
that would be great if they can save the Dart... the FM's need to work out how to take over ships quickly. they have few ships and everyone else has more and bigger ones, have to come up with a way to counter that
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LOL why is it the Lyrans almost always seem to be getting pasted in nearly every AU story?
Wrong place wrong time... every time
DC any chance that Dart could be salvaged.
It's not dead but in many pieces
that would be great if they can save the Dart... the FM's need to work out how to take over ships quickly. they have few ships and everyone else has more and bigger ones, have to come up with a way to counter that
If they weren't Clan I'd say nukes... but they are so they are stuffed
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Extra long November 3106 with pieces from marauder648, James Tanaga... and me
Anderson Station (Olympus-class Research Station)
Sigma Mare, Andurien Commonality
Capellan Confederation
5th November 3106
There was a small gathering on the gravity deck of the Olympus-class Recharge Station, Anderson Station, in the Sigma Mare system deep inside the Capellan Confederation. Among the guests was Chancellor Dao-Shen Liao who looked very bored listening to the engineer who was explaining what was happening. “As you saw earlier at this station we have built the lower half of the vessel while in the Conquista system the rest of the ship has been built. Between our two systems we are building two ships at the same time Conquista building the top sections while we build the lower sections.”
“Very interesting” the Chancellor said dryly he wasn’t entirely sure shy he was here if he was honest. Suddenly off the bow of the space station a JumpShip flashed into the system and quickly dispatched two DropShips one a Behemoth while the other looked like it carried some sort of Tug attachment. It took the two ships approximately thirty minutes to approach the space station when they did the tug approached the lower half of the space station while the Behemoth held off opening its cargo bay to space while mechanical arms inside the ship slowly moved the top section of what appeared to be a Lung Wang-class DropShip out of it’s first bay. As the Chancellor watched the partially completed DropShip being moved out of the ship the Tug reappeared pushing the lower half of the Lung Wang. The lower section was expertly moved into position underneath the forward section and Dao-Shen Liao could see engineers scrambling over the hull connecting the two sections together.
“The connection process takes approximately a day and a half.” He said confidently as the engineers worked quickly over the hull “the ship will then be fueled and loaded with ammunition and will be ready for service within a couple of days.” The engineer said as another Tug appeared moving another section of DropShip into position as a second nose section was pushed out into space this time it was a Celestial-class Pocket WarShip the Chancellor could see the difference in the hull shape. “In the Celestial’s case she will also need aerospace fighters but in all intensive purposes both of these ships will be ready for service tomorrow afternoon.” The engineer promised surprising Chancellor Dao-shen Liao.
“How long to build them?”
“Approximately two months to build both ships because we are only building half of the ship here we can concentrate on completing those sections while Conquista can build the control sections. Both stations build weapons into their individual sections while the reactors are not brought online until the ship is fully completed. If we had an ammunition station in system both vessels would be ready for service and fully armed within two days.” He said deciding to push his luck a little further “if there was a second station in this system and another in the Conquista system then we would both be aple to purchase attack DropShips independent of each other.
“Of course” the Chancellor said watching the DropShip come together in space. “What about quality control if the ship is not powered before it is completed how do you know the systems work?” The Chancellor asked
“We run the ship’s systems from the station during station. Each section is fully tested in the cargo bay on this station. There will be a twelve hour testing period tomorrow before they are shipped out.”
“Impressive” Dao-Shen Liao said one of the Capellan Confederation’s greatest restrictions was they only had two construction facilities for WarShips. Compared to their neighbours the facilities in the Confederation couldn’t keep up with production. However if they were able to build dozens of “Pocket WarShips” perhaps they could flood the space with combat vessels to overwhelm the larger WarShips. “I am going to transfer a Wing of the Hell’s Black Aces to this system. Their job will be to extensively test each of the DropShips that you pass on your quality control.” He said “should they pass our requirements I will pass funding for an ammunition facility to be built in this system so you can complete the vessels here.” He said “however if they fail you will…”
“I understand” the engineer said leaving Dao-shen’s point unsaid.
“You and your people have served the Confederation well and if your progress continues at the pace currently seen then perhaps we will approach your idea about a second station.” He said showing that he had heard the engineer’s idea.
Lyran Counter Attack
Elba, Inarcs Theatre
Lyran Commonwealth
8th November 3106
A counter-attack launched by the Fourteenth Lyran Guards RCT and several small mercenary commands finds that the Stone Spirits have stripped their holdings to the bare minimum defences with Elba and Lushun being quickly overwhelmed by the Lyran’s front line unit. Unfortunately their victory comes at a heavy price as the Stone Spirits Bonaventure-class Corvette jumps into the system almost ontop of the LCS Arthur Steiner-Davion while it charged its K-F Drive. In close the Bonaventure is able to cause crippling damage to the Arthur Steiner-Davion even as the Fox’s autocannons, missiles and support vessels breach the Stone Spirit vessel’s hull.
Stone Spirit ground forces follow the Bonaveture into the systems and land on both Elba and Lushun causing heavy damage to the Fourteenth Lyran Guards RCT causing enough casualties to make the unit combat ineffective. Although the Lyran High Command are displeased at the loss of another WarShip and at the casualties the Fourteenth had suffered they are pleased that Elba and Lushun are again Lyran holdings as it shows the public that the Stone Spirits can be resisted.
Kaumberg Theatre Militia Rapid Response Unit
Champadanga, Kaumberg Theatre
Lyran Commonwealth, Inner Sphere
11th November 3106
Kommandant Kelly Varnay looked through the binoculars as the Stone Spirits unloaded from their two Overlord-C DropShips on the tarmac below the mountain she was on. Judging from what she saw, she and her battalion were facing roughly two trinaries of heavy and assault BattleMechs, a trinary of armor, and a mere star of Elementals. She knew the Spirits had a Carrier DropShip containing a full star of aerospace fighters in orbit guarding their Invader-class JumpShip.
“Just confirmed it, Kommandant, those’re the Spirits Eleventh Assault Cluster,” Staff Sergeant Brian O’Malley quietly reported to her. “They were last reported on Kwangjong-ni by the Second Dismal Disinherited mercenary unit when they were buggin’ out.”
She gave an absent nod letting the Staff Sergeant know she heard him. “If they’re here, I’d bet my entire savings the Spirits be hitting Niangol and Krung Thep right about now, if they hadn’t done so already.”
“My thoughts as well, Staff Sergeant,” she replied back, not taking her eyes off the Spirits. “Doesn’t make sense why they are pushing this deep though,” she muttered a second later.
“They’re clanners, lass. They don’t exactly follow the norms, you know,” he remarked back. “They find a weakness and they be exploiting it and damn the consequences.”
“No. Their push is different. More methodical, more precise then it should be,” Kelly surmised as she pulled the binoculars away from her face. “Much more so. Hitting our border units with overwhelming fire power. Crippling the counter-attack at Elba but when they could destroy them they leave the unit, and system in our hands, before hitting our supplies on Millerton and mauling up the Ninth Commonwealth Guards before withdrawing. And now they’re hitting us here.”
“You think the bastards be planning something major, lass,” Brian asked.
“I don’t know, Staff Sergeant. What planets can they want and realistically strike and hold,” she asked as she continued to look down from her perch in the mountain.
“The Dismal Disinherited retreated to Baryshevo. The Obsidian Lancers Brigade have been posted there ever since the mess on Lost,” Brian suggested. “Could be the Spirits decided enough’s enough and’ll be making an example out of them.”
She shook her head. “No. If that was the case, the Eleventh Assault would have shown up there, not here.”
“Loxley,” he asked her, causing her to shake her head again. Loxley a contributer to the Lyran Commonwealth’s defence and it was a stepping stone towards a strike at Coventry.
“The Spirits have to go through Baryshevo to do that or risk five mercenary brigades in their rear. Or at least deploy one of their WarShips there to keep the mercs pinned planetside, yet they haven’t done that yet. And again, doesn’t exactly answer that cluster’s presence here.”
“Maybe Kaumberg, lass,” the older Staff Sergeant suggested a long moment later, causing her to turn and face him. “Just saying capturing the world be a nice catch for the Spirits. ‘Specifically with Rim Motors now on the planet and building it up.”
Kelly snorted at that, but didn’t say anything as she turned back to face the Stone Spirits below. Rim Motors very recent purchase of Wechsel Royal had been a small scandal, up until the Spirits started their blitz, the Rim Collection’s investment on Lyran soil had been big news in the Periphery theatres. She doubted the Spirits were that stupid it was too far out of their way, she judged. “If they weren’t going to Loxley, not hitting Baryshevo, and likely not hitting Kaumberg, where did it leave for the Spirits to go,” she asked out loud.
“Alarion maybe, ma’am,” Private Nicole Von Neidmann, a scout sniper posted nearby, inquired, causing Kelly to turn to her. She remembered the sniper was an Alarion native.
“Come on, lass,” Staff Sergeant Brian O’Malley sneered at the younger woman. “You can’t be that stupid can you? The Spirits can’t hit that deep.”
“With respect, Sarge, they could. You forget the other periphery units were pulled out to hold the Falcons at Arc Royal,” was the younger woman’s prim response.
Before the Staff Sergeant could say anything, Kelly decided to end the discussion.
“Whether or not the Spirits are pushing to Alarion is above all our pay-grades, Staff Sergeant, Private,” she reminded them. “Staff Sergeant, head back to HQ and fire up the mobile HPG. Let High Command know an Elite Stone Spirit cluster just landed and ask for instructions. Let them know we plan to somehow keep them here planet-side.”
The much older Lyran soldier looked like he might argue with Kelly, but thought better of it. “Right-o, lass. Just get back to base before sundown. I hear Eric and North are’a making some mean jambalaya,” he winked at her before getting up, leaving Kelly with Nicole and her fellow sniper, Bao.
“Pig,” Nicole commented underneath her breath. Kelly shook her head as she once again studied the Stone Spirits down below the mountain. Minutes passed before Kelly heard the still quiet male sniper sigh softly. Turning her attention to him, she noticed Nicole was motioning him about something.
“What is it,” she asked.
“Nikki here wants to know why you chose us, ma’am,” the quiet man asked, causing Kelly to glare at the two of them for a moment, before turning her attention to the Spirits.
A moment passed as Kelly decided whether to tell the two. “The FedRats have long memories,” she informed them sighing.
Nicole looked lost, but Bao nodded wisely. “Guessing when you were promoted, it was either us or a desk job,” he guessed quietly.
Kelly nodded absently. “I wasn’t even a year old when my father decided to launch his coup against the First Prince. Yet that didn’t stop him from exiling myself and my mother,” she remarked quietly to herself. “And now, I am blacklisted in the Lyran military, all because of my last name and who my father was.”
Kelly felt a hand on her shoulder. Looking up, she looked into Boa’s brown eyes. “We are lucky to have you with us, ma’am,” he remarked to her. It was then she noticed she was crying softly.
He turned his head slightly downward. “And I think now is the time to prove to yourself you aren’t your father,” he noted, nodding to where the Stone Spirit DropShips lay. No armor or Mechs were around them, Kelly idly noted after looking through her binoculars.
Laying them down, she got up and grabbed her Mauser laser rifle. “Thanks, Corporal,” she remarked a smile on her face as she left the two snipers to continue their surveillance of the Stone Spirit DropShips.
Snow Raven Assault
Suianheer, Tabayama Prefecture
Midway Military District, Draconis Combine
12th November 3106
As Snow Raven ground forces burned towards the planet’s surface the Constellation, Clan Snow Raven’s newest WarShip and the first of her class, moved towards the two defending WarShips. In the command centre Star Admiral Martin Lankenau watched as the Corvette and Destroyer moved towards the Raven ground forces and aerospace fighters from both sides engaged. “Let us gain their attention, the Corvette first” he commanded as gunner stations on the bridge lined up the six hundred-and-eighty thousand ton vessel’s weapons on the enemy WarShips.
“Sir, our ground forces are leaving the WarShips engagement ranges the only way they will be able to hit them now is if they are willing to risk bombarding the surface.” One of the bridge crew announced.
“Understood” Lankenau said as the Constellation’s forward array of naval lasers and light repeating naval gauss rifles engaged the enemy WarShips he was glad to see that most of the gauss rifle slugs slammed into the Inazuma smashing through its armour and into its internal structure causing enough damage for the lasers to finish off the Corvette. “Have our DropShips remain close to us until we close on the enemy.” He ordered as the Constellation turned.
“Sir, ground forces have engaged the Fifth and Sixth Midway Regulars on planet.”
“Very good inform them we will have air superiority within the hour.” He said as naval autocannons, particle cannons and capital missiles struck the Constellation as the enemy Tatsumaki II, the DCS Onami turned on the Snow Raven vessel.
“Incoming brace of capital missiles fired from assault DropShips!”
“Point defences! Release our DropShips and have them kill the launching vessels.” He commanded watching the wave of capital missiles approaching the the Constellation. From around the Constellation the four Arcadia-class DropShips charged down the enemy vessels one of the capital missiles locked onto one of the Arcadia’s striking the small vessel resulting in an immediate nuclear explosion. “By the Father” Lankenau remarked seeing the explosion “roll us to port bring the broadside in line with the enemy DropShips ignore that Tatsumaki.” He commanded as the Constellation’s thick anti-missile defences cut down the enemy capital missiles “to all of our DropShips ordinance from Constellation down range.” He commanded hoping his warning would ensure no friendly DropShips were destroyed by the Constellation’s broadside. Naval lasers cut through space cutting into the enemy vessels knocking three out of space allowing the Raven DropShips to deploy their ProtoMechs onto the hulls of the enemy vessels.
With the Constellation turned towards the DropShips it had allowed the enemy Tatsumaki II to close unleashing its full firepower on the Frigate’s nose as it passed by. Explosions rippled across the Constellation’s hull as armour and weapons were destroyed by the destroyer’s flying pass. “Pivot the nose away weapons stations fire at will on enemy vessel.” He commanded as the Constellation’s nose dropped down away from the enemy target the two ships continued to exchange fire. Weapon fire continued as the destroyed moved past the frigate the smaller ship trying to turn to keep its nose on the Snow Raven vessel as gauss rifle and laser fire tore through its armour.
“Their hull is breached in several locations” one of the Raven bridge crew announced looking at the enemy vessel’s sensor image “they cannot sustain much more damage.”
“Offer surrender they do not need to die today” Lankenau said even as weapons fire continued to be exchanged between the two naval titans but Lankenau’s offer came too late as the Tatsumaki II’s hull cracked open after sustaining another barrage of naval gauss rifle fire.
On the ground three clusters of elite Snow Raven warriors fought against the two DCMS line regiments pushing them back over and over again. With the Ravens securing the space around Suianheer Raven aerospace fighters soon dominated the skies around the DCMS ground forces staffing defensive positions breaking up each attempt by the Midway Regulars to hold their ground. In the space of six hours all ground and space resistance was over and Suianheer was a Snow Raven holding.
Elsewhere the second Constellation-class Frigate was taken over by its new owners members of Clan Coyote. The frigate and a Drake-class Corvette would be traded to the Coyotes in exchange for vehicles, Mechs and a Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser which would allow all of the Raven ground units to be full mobile.
Kaumberg Theatre Militia Rapid Response Unit
Champadanga, Kaumberg Theatre
Lyran Commonwealth, Inner Sphere
17th November, 3106
Kelly Varnay watched in the small view screen in her helmet as she watched a trinary of Stone Spirit battlemechs begin loading up in one of their DropShips. Two she noticed stood guard outside. It was time, she decided to herself.
“Ferret Lead to all Fesnyng units. Let’s go hunting,” she ordered through her radio. Soon, she could see the accurate fire from all four of the Marksman artillery tanks in her unit began raining down on the two DropShips as she pushed her Wolfhound forward, leading the rest of her unit down the mountain.
Within minutes, they had reached the spaceport, where mangled Mechs were lying, just as the artillery from the four Marksman finally ended. The twelve Lyran light BattleMechs quickly terminated the remaining six damaged Mechs as the Cavalry VTOL helicopters hovered overhead. Another five minute passed before both DropShips were under their control. “Call in the Prime Movers, Hamilton I want you to look out any local civilian transport we need to maximize what we can remove from here. Grant, get the DropShip crews out and set the charges I want us gone before anyone else arrives.”
Just as quickly as they came, the Lyran irregular militia left moving back into the Fesnyng’s secret base in the mountains just as both wrecked DropShips exploded from the charges they had left inside them. The damage the attack had done was enough it had caused the Stone Spirits to decide that Champadanga was too much trouble for its worth leaving the Kaumberg Militia Rapid Response Unit in charge of the planet. Combined with the attacks on Elba and Lushun the Lyrans had again proven that they could resist and push back the Stone Spirits unfortunately it seemed the pirate clan continued to have fight in it.
Unfortunately even as the Lyrans celebrated pushing back the raiders once more a Stone Spirits showed why they should be so feared. The flagship of the Stone Spirit force the General Stuart, an ancient Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser along with a Samarkand-class Light Carrier attacked and caused heavy damage to the LCS Morgan Kell, a Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser, in the Elume system. The Morgan Kell was able to withdraw to Elume’s orbit and link up with aerospace assets from the planet’s surface but the Stone Spirit attack showed the clan raiders would strike wherever they saw a threat.
SLDF Observation Post
Devil’s Rock, Star League’s Protectorate
24th November 3106
Alex stepped into the room near the wall Adam looked out the window watching their target through a pair of binoculars “where is Morgan?” she asked
“On the phone to command” Ralph said
“Again?” Alex asked “they are going to tell him the same thing.” She said sinking into one of the chairs.
“Didn't hear him last night, Alex, it might have been the drink talking but he wants to go. Seems like he’s willing to accept anything” Adam set not moving from the window watching for signs of wanted criminal Bobby Winchester.
“He won't leave he is his father son, 50 C bills he stays” Alex said pulling out a bill putting her money where her mouth was.
“I'm my father son, you’re a daughter of Terra, and Ralph well Ralph exists. I'll take your money you're on” Adam agreed
“I'll take some of that action” Ralph said handing over his own Bill just as Morgan stepped into the room.
“Morning boss” Alex said greeting an unshaven Morgan Christifori “anything new from command?” she asked hoping that maybe someone had decided to preach the Prochnow settlement.
“Negative we're to continue to observe” he said sounding resigned to the fate.
“Get your new assignment boss?” Adam asked continuing to watch at the window Alex shot the man an annoyed gaze not wanting the idea in their commander’s mind.
“They said I can have a transfer” Morgan said bringing a shocked look from Alex and even a glance from Adam before he looked back out the window. “But” he continued “they said you guys couldn't come with me and I've have to join a garrison unit for a bit until they sorted out where I belonged.” He explained “so I said I'd stay put. They did say that my next assignment would be one that I could get my arse shot off and are you could all join me” he announced with groans from them all money was exchanged between Adam and Alex “to stay or go” Morgan asked
“Always stay boss” Alex replied with a smile pocketing the cash.
Trade Mission
Tukayyid, Clan Space
Inner Sphere
31st November 3106
A quick shake of the head cleared the faint lingering nausea from the aftermath of the jump across the light years. “Status” Captain Julie Leitner called out
“We’re here Ma’am, holding steady at Nadir point, 2.5 million clicks from edge of…Status change! We’re being actively targeted.” Her executive officer Dastan Buckley warned.
“Steady Mr Buckley, its just the security patrol.”
Captain Leitner sat back in her chair, adjusting the straps so they were no longer biting into her right shoulder. A glance at the sensor display told her all she needed to see, still she was irritated at the rather young helmsman who had only joined the crew three weeks ago when Nikki came down with ‘a bout of shore leave’ and had to be left behind.
“Four other Jumpers at the point, we’ve got a dropper inbound, she’s locked onto us and hailing.”
“Put him through.”
The display screen flickered slightly and the image of a stern faced yet young looking man, dark skinned with his hair in loose bangs appeared.
“I am Star Captain Miles. State your purpose in this system.”
‘Always so formal’ “Well met, I am Captain Julie Leitner, Commander of the JumpShip Pot Luck. I am carrying two DropShips with cargo for Tukkayid. We are expected.”
“Confirmed” he said a moment later “your vessel is on the roster for this week’s list of arrivals. Hold your position and await boarding and inspection. If you launch any DropShip or small craft we will fire into you.” With that comms shut off.
“Are they always like that?”
“Hah, no, he was being polite! The Ebon Guard are a very professional bunch, when they come over, do NOT piss them off, they are very trigger happy with their stunners and most of ‘em could kick your ass before you could say ‘I was only jokin’.”
“But you heard the man, station keeping, don’t move us a meter, let the DropShip crews know that they have an inspection coming.”
“What about their Captains?”
“We’re all vets here; they already know what’s coming.”
What was coming was a three hour long wait as the Clan DropShip a sleek black and silver vessel first docked with another JumpShip, a small Scout type ship, its DropShip proudly baring the orange and red rock symbol of Valdez Heavy Industries. Only when Captain Leitner had dozed off in her chair did the docking alert sound. A small shuttle was clamping onto the dorsal airlock, the craft was painted black and silver, just like its mother-ship.
“Okay, game faces on people! Attention all hands, we’ve got a customs crew on board, all crews are to report to the grav deck and for god’s sake, come unarmed and bring your bloody bio-metrics with you! I don’t want a repeat of the last run here Steven…”
Most of the crew were already lounging on the Merchant’s small grav deck, a few running off back to their cabins to get their bio’s, small chips that acted as a universal passport, and far harder to forge or crack and edit.
The Captain and her XO though met the Clan borders at the airlock. As it cycled open a heavily armoured and armed man stepped through, well, ducked in through the airlock, carrying a big ass assault laser rifle, imposing as all hell in his black armour. Another Elemental entered and then they stood aside as another Clanner stepped onto the deck, it was the dark skinned man from earlier.
‘So damn young...’ he could not have been more than twenty years old, but he carried himself with the air of an older, more experienced veteran.
“Star Captain Miles, welcome aboard the Pot Luck.”
“Captain Leitner, your vessel has been in this system eight times in the past four months, so you know the procedure.”
Julia smiled since the Solaris Agreement Tukayyid had been opened to trade the Sea Foxes hated the Inner Sphere and actively tried to purchase goods at local Inner Sphere trade points in an attempt to stop the traders coming here. Each encounter with the Ebon Guard was the same she should be used to this by now but inwardly she sighed, even the customs and staff at New Avalon were not as anally retentive as the Clanners. She’d met one of the Clanners on three trips they KNEW each other by face and name, but every time it was 100% professional, not going through the motions or just winging it. Every check was deadly serious. She handed over the inventory detailing the two attached DropShips cargo, as well as a full manifest of the crews details, that held their history for the past year.
Whilst this was going on a slimmed down quad battle armour clanked its way out of the shuttles airlock moving on magnetic claims, a potent looking array of sensors on its back.
“That’s new.”
“Aff. It will aid in the inspection.”
“I spotted; you spent three hours on that Scout, that’s a new record.” Captain Leitner said, smiling lightly before mentally kicking herself for trying a bit of humour. The humour landed with all the grace of a falling Atlas and the three Clanners remained stony faced and stern looking.
“Aff, we are working to improve efficiency.”
“Excellent! How long do you think it will take for this inspection to be complete?”
“No longer than five hours.”
‘FIVE ****** HOURS!?’ Leitner exclaimed in surprise “that is not too bad” she conceded covering quickly
“Aff. Please stand aside Captain.”
Whilst Clan DropShip and JumpShips didn’t have to go through the intense customs investigations, Spheroid visitors to the Tukkayid system, no matter who and what went through the same thing. The Clans were very careful with visitors coming to their new capital world. Every DropShip was escorted down to the surface by Aerospace assets, if you diverted from your assigned landing corridor you could expect a shot across the bow. Failure to return to course meant destruction moments later.
Spheroid DropShips landed at a spaceport far away from Andrey City, itself a fortress before your cargo was checked AGAIN but this time in the unloading. Usually taking another few hours whilst the Clans checked the orbital manifest with the one on the ground as well as running another bio scan of passengers and crew. Even leaving your ship was escorted all the way back to the JumpShips and the aero’s didn’t leave until you jumped out again.
The Battle armour turned out to have some kind of active probe and it was able to maneuver in zero-g thanks to thrusters along its legs and feet whilst the dozen Clanners on the shuttle went through the manifest, checking the crew, their background and history with a fine tooth comb.
Still the view from orbit was magnificent. Julia had been down to the planet twice and she could see the shipyards churning out DropShips and JumpShips, the off limits slips where WarShips were made as well as conglomerations of orbital factories. The city of Andry itself was laid out in the same shape as the Cameron Star with the Hall of the Khan’s at the centre along with the massively fortified genetic repository. The city was an avatar of Clan aesthetics and as one visitor had called it ‘a triumph in minimalist design’, white and grey stone or gleaming steel and glass buildings flanked wide roads whilst trees from worlds across Clan holdings as well as ancient Terran Oaks were dotted along the side of the roads whilst parks and artfully crafted water features helped beautify the city. Statues were present aplenty, three statues of the Kerensky’s formed the main entrance to the Hall of the Khan’s whilst a fourth, more abstract one was said to represent Alexsandr Kerensky’s wife. Still this was something that Spheroids rarely saw, this was the Clan’s city, diplomats and trade envoys were permitted but merchant ship captains. Certainly not.
But Captain Leitner would not be going to the surface this week. No for her it was a case of sat in orbit, enduring close passes by Clanner Aerospace jocks and DropShips whilst waiting for the slow process of unloading to finish. ‘Fun times’.
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Constellation-class Frigate
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=55376.msg1273782#msg1273782 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=55376.msg1273782#msg1273782)
Ixtab Hovertank
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=55377.new#new (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=55377.new#new)
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Great update, good look at how serious the Ebon Guard is, lots of set up, and a good bit of action too, it's been a busy November. O0
The frigate and a Drake-class Corvette would be traded to the Coyotes in exchange for vehicles, Mechs and a Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser which would allow all of the Raven ground units to be full mobile.
Even though they are trading two-for-one, I think the Ravens are getting off better here.
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Awesome update! Now I know why you said my second update would work better if delayed due to other plans you have. O0
As to Clan Fire Mandrill/Rim Collection naval strategy, they heavily supplement their warships using aerospace and dropship support. They know they have a weakness, but their naval strategy allows them to work around it. It has to, since they don't really have a choice in the matter.
Collection and Liao have similar issues concerning having limited warships compared to their neighbors if you compare one to the other. Yet Liao tried to keep pace with their neighbors in producing warships and ultimately failed, so now is looking for another way to close the distance. The Collection and Fire Mandrills realized they couldnt match the Lyrans warship to warship without a shipyard of their own and so never tried. Rather, they had the Fire Mandrills gear their dropship production facility (Armory Zeta) to produce Titan Monitors and when needed, regular Titan-C dropships, all while pouring resources into their aerospace production facilities. This approach eventually morphed into the heavy dropship/aerospace dependent navy the Collection now sports.
Unlike the Collection, the Capellan Confederation does have warship production facilities, so my guess is while assault dropships will become a mainstay in the Capellan military, they won't be reliant on them nearly as much as the Collection is.
As to the Titan Monitors not having nukes, it's much more a yes they do, but they dont use them. This is for three main reasons. 1st: As Dragon Cat mentioned, Fire Mandrills dont like them, 2nd: The Collection Naval Touman is now large enough to not really need to break out nukes at every warship they come around. Maybe for a battleship or a direct attack on All Dawn, but both are unlikely. 3rd: Collection has an unspoken agreement with the Lyrans in that so long as one doesnt use nukes in a fight, the other wont. This is a common courtesy in battletech, but I just felt I needed to mention it.
This post reminds me, Dragon Cat. We really should work on an intelligence brief on the separate powers naval strength and weaknesses. 8)
James Tanaga
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That would be a good idea having a guide to the naval strengths and weaknesses of the different powers. O0
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That would be a good idea having a guide to the naval strengths and weaknesses of the different powers. O0
Just looking to give me more work...
Now for a special month. Other than the fighting between the Combine and Ravens and a couple of edits from me this month is all James Tanaga. I personally think its a great piece of work.
Conference Room, LCS Adam Steiner
Alarion, Alarion Province
Lyran Commonwealth, Inner Sphere
9th December 3106
Admiral Patrick Doyle sat at the head of the conference table on board the LCS Adam Steiner, studying the holo-screen as he waited for his subordinates to arrive. The renegade Stone Spirits had continued their push, taking the worlds of Kelang, Sappir, and Triesting while covering their flank at Etiler and Virtue. It all meant one thing.
The Spirits were coming for Alarion.
The automatic door slid open, and his subordinates began piling into the room, taking seats to either side of him after he returned their salutes. The top of the screen showed four officers that couldn’t make it in person, but were televising via HPG or standard communications.
“I don’t believe I need to say it but the regs require it of me. Anything leaks from this room; it’s on your heads. Verstanden?” He ignored their dutiful agreement to his words. He noted a few looked nervous, especially the youngest and most junior of them, Kommandant Varnay from somewhere in the Stone Spirits Occupation Zone.
“Ten days ago, the Spirits struck these three worlds.” Pausing, he clicked the buttons near him, so the holo-screen could show the Inner Sphere topography map. Zooming in, it showed the highlighted worlds of Kelang, Sappir, and Triesting. He ignored the sucking of breath from a few of his subordinates and the comments from a couple of others the Stone Spirits appeared to not care about holding their territory instead they wanted to hurt the Commonwealth.
“Four days later, the Spirits conducted attacks into Etiler and Virtue,” he paused for the briefest of moments, allowing the news to hit as he meant it to before moving on. “The LCS William Steiner faced off against two of the Spirits antiquated destroyers and that Vincent of theirs before being forced to withdraw. She suffered heavy damage and won’t be available for our operation against the Spirits.”
“Meanwhile, the Stone Spirits’ Second Stone Guards and Eleventh Assault Clusters conducted a raid in force on Virtue, destroying one battalion and mauling another from the Tenth Commonwealth Guards,” Kathy Parks took over from her place directly to his right. He nodded to the elderly woman, who nodded back, before turning to address the table. “These two raids effectively secured their borders. Yesterday, the Estates General used its Emergency Powers and removed Robert Johnson as the Lyran Intelligence Commands Director. Henrietta Bradford of the Marik Oversight Office will be replacing him.”
Admiral Doyle noted many in the room didn’t like that decision but it was one that needed to happen Intellgence should have seen this attack and should have prepared for it. He also knew they won’t like what was coming next, as he once again took control of the room. “General of Armies Aiden Grey has decided to cede control of this front due to currently being out place on Tharkad.” He noticed nearly all in the room were upset at the news. Aiden Grey was well-liked with the Lyran military. Even those who were political rivals of his respected him. Doyle had been one of the voices that had said the General of Armies should be replaced but it was a failure of Intelligence not military command.
“Sir, with respect, who will replace him, there needs to be a chain of command?” asked Colonel Spencer Hutchinson of the Seventeenth Lyran Regulars.
Patrick noted Kathy looked as uncomfortable as he. “The General of Armies retains control over the Clan Jade Falcon and Clan Wolf fronts. Generals Artur Von Danzuch of Kaumberg, Kimberly Page of Skye, and myself will coordinate the fight against the Stone Spirits.”
Many within the room nodded, but he noted they still didn’t like it. “Hauptmann-General Kathy Parks,” he nodded in Kathy’s direction, “of the Third Royal Guards RCT will command our ground forces during our counter-assault into Triesting,” he began the actual briefing.
Two hours later, as the other officers left the room, he glanced at Kathy. Only when they were alone did he speak. “Do you think we can trust her,” he asked.
Hauptmann-General Kathy Parks nodded to him. “I believe so. She led her militia battalion in taking off from Champadanga just as reinforcements from Kaumberg arrived in system. Even now, they’re in the middle the Spirits Occupation Zone at Krung Thep. If Kelly Varnay was anything like her father, why would she put herself in her current position? Sir,” she answered him.
“She acted contrary to her orders, Kathy,” he replied.
“Her battalion is the new militia prototype, sir,” the older officer replied. “They don’t hold onto territory. They help support other combat units,” she reminded him. “She is only doing what is expected of her new unit, I believe, she’s trying to hurt the Stone Spirits we need her hurting them.”
Patrick visibly sighed. “She gets a pass then,” he gruffly acknowledged before turning to the matter at hand. “What about the three Light Combat Teams Loxley, Lancaster, and York are providing for this op?”
“I believe they are hoping to gain political prestige, and funding, in the Estates General, sir, but that isn’t my call. And quite frankly, sir, we need those three units, what with the Seventeenth Lyran Regulars remaining here while my Third Royal Guards RCT is being deployed?”
Patrick nodded to himself, having thought much the same thing, what with the recent arrival of the First LCT at Baryshevo. “What about General Maria Marik-Johns and the task-force she has gathered on Baryshevo?”
He noted Kathy was deep in thought. “The Dismal Disinherited lost a third of its combat forces in the Stone Spirits first wave. The Obsidian Lancers Brigade been deployed there since their mishandling of Lost as a result they’ve maintained much of their strength. The other units on planet, excepting the First LCT from Loxley, all were forced to retreat from the Stone Spirit advance. General Marik-Johns reported all the forces she gathered at Baryshevo are looking to take the fight to the Spirits. I say we trust her.”
“Trusting the word of a merc beyond their contract isn’t something the Lyran Commonwealth should do,” he admonished her.
“Then don’t, sir,” she replied back. “But at the end of the day, we need those mercs she has gathered at Baryshevo. You and I both know this, sir.”
“I know, Kathy. I know,” he gruffly answered her. Both knew the forces the Dismal Disinherited had gathered around them at Baryshevo were realistically the only forces the Lyrans had remaining as a reserve that could realistically take the fight to the renegade Spirits.
Battle-line, Second Genyosha Regiment
Kazanka, Raven Alliance
Periphery
14th December 3106
Despite the Ravens and Nova Cats pushing the Draconis Combine Mustered Society to breaking point the ISF had identified a weakness in the Raven lines a pocket of eight worlds that had the lightest of defences. With several support regiments the Second Genyosha was leading the attack targeting the most significant Battle formation the elite One Hundredth Raven Battle Cluster on Kazanka. Chu-sa Asima Marphissa turned her eighty ton Hatamoto-Suma BattleMech as the Ravens approached her position “the Ravens will fight us until they fall. They know that we have identified a weak spot in their defences. Our navy will take care of the space above us. Our duty is here where it has always been taking the ground and holding it.” She said lining up an incoming Snow Raven Pouncer OmniMech pulling her main trigger she fired a gauss rifle slot which surprisingly went wide of the enemy Mech as it kept running in engaging her with paired particle cannons. “You should have stayed back my friend” she said watching the range tick down as the particle cannons hit her Mech for a second time “my turn” she said pulling the second trigger sending forty medium range missiles, a medium laser and the gauss rifle into the incoming OmniMech. This time the gauss slug connected with the Pouncer’s left shoulder moments before the forty missiles coated the enemy OmniMech in firey explosions. The massive armour loss knocked the Pouncer to the ground where it was vulnerable to a second salvo of weapons from her BattleMech.
Across the battle-line Asima could see her regiment was fully engaged with the One Hundredth Battle Cluster “push them back!” She commanded switching her focus to a pair of fast moving Cizin Hovercraft which were trying to engage her Mech with their turreted lasers. As they approached Asima laid down another barrage of forty medium range missiles coating the area with fire. One of the Cizin’s took several hits from the missiles but continued forwards firing its lasers and short range missiles into Asima’s BattleMech. As armour was burned and blasted from the eighty ton chassis Asima continued to step backwards firing the gauss rifle and missiles as quickly as they would reload. One of the gauss slugs went straight through the cockpit of one of the hovercraft finishing off the vehicle while a leaping Black Hawk KU came crashing down on the second crushing it under the sixty ton BattleMech. “You have my thanks Command Four” she said deciding not to hold the warriors unrequested assistance against him as a wave of missiles bombarded the area. “Forward” she commanded moving her assault Mech forwards along side her Mech the Black Hawk KU, an Orion, Dragon and Mauler all moved forward against the Snow Raven forces.
Along their lines vehicles and BattleMechs of the Genyosha supported by Battle Armour and infantry continued to push the Snow Ravens back metre-by-metre. While from above aerospace fighters dived through the atmosphere and began launching straffing and bombing attacks on their targets as word was passed along that the Snow Raven’s WarShip had been destroyed by DCMS naval forces and that they now had air superiority. Within six days the planet was held by the Genyosha along with Zlatousi, Milligan’s World, Quantraine, Bad News, Rashaven, Brasha, Coraines and Cerberus as Outworlds Alliance militia and second-line Snow Raven forces fell to the Draconis Combine’s advance.
Bridge, LCS Adam Steiner
Triesting, Alarion Province
Lyran Commonwealth, Inner Sphere
21st December, 3106
Patrick Doyle gripped the arm rests of his chair as the LCS Adam Steiner shook violently as it was again hit by Naval Autocannon rounds from the tag team of the two Stone Spirit destroyers. They had finally taken out the Vincent a few minutes earlier with a broadside, seemingly crippling the ship that now sat at their bow. Further in the system, he knew the Coventry-class corvette LCS Storm Watch was being hounded by Stone Spirit DropShips and aerospace fighters.
The plan was working. When the LCS Adam Steiner and LCS Storm Watch entered the system, they were met with a surprising sight of Starliner One in orbit. The nearly unarmed Sovetskii Soyuz, which had been missing for years after a suspected miss-jump and its four DropShips immediately, began to run, and he allowed the LCS Adam Steiner and LCS Storm Watch to give chase.
And then the Spirits warship star from Etiler had arrived. They had sprung his trap and now they only had to hold until the LCS Fleet Admiral Lyn Hood’s arrival. Unfortunately, he had not expected the Spirits having much aerospace support and his two warships were now in the fight for their lives while they awaited their sister ship to arrive in some ways Admiral Doyle wished he’d been able to free up one of the Mjolnir-class Battle-cruisers for this mission.
“Radiation spike!” called out the female ensign from behind him manning the tactical terminal. “IFF confirms. It is the LCS Fleet Admiral Lyn Hood, Admiral.”
“Good!” he called out as his ship shook. Now they only had to wait until the Hood could get into position.
“Enemy aerospace fighters have changed their attack vectors!” the ensign from earlier replied confused.
Change their attack vectors, why in the hell- The thought died as he looked down at his command screen. Typing a few buttons, he paled. “Full power to the engines! Start barrel rolling!” he yelled out to the pilot. “Guns! I need flak yesterday!”
Moments later, he felt the Hyperion underneath him began to roll, but he knew it was too little too late, as the Spirit aerospace fighters began their concentrated attack on the bridge and engines of the LCS Adam Steiner, all while the Bloodhorn, the crippled Vincent, began lighting its engines as it charged the Hyperion-class heavy cruiser.
“Pilot! Change course to minus seven three now!” Patrick yelled out.
“I can’t heavy damage to forward maneuvering thrusters!” was the pilot’s panicked answer.
“Damnit!” Patrick replied before hitting a button on his command screen. “All hands, brace for impact! I repeat! All hands brace for impact!” he announced over the intercom, panic in his voice. “Don’t jump, don’t jump” he whispered as the other ship closed if either ship activated their jump drives now the two ships would be instantly destroyed. As he waited what felt like an eternity he thought of his wife Jessica Steiner and their children and prayed they had a long, beautiful life.
Moments later, the bridge was rocked, as the LCS Adam Steiner barreled into the Bloodhorn. The once proud Lyran warship immediately began tumbling, as Patrick felt the ship lose power, becoming pitch black.
“We’re alive…” he whispered his thanks trying to look around in the micro-gravity. “Headcount people!” Patrick yelled out. Slowly, but surely, his bridge crew began calling in. Within moments, many had flash flights. Within minutes, they finally had established radio connection with much of the crew the emergency bulkheads had closed at the forward areas of the ship saving them all from explosive decompression unfortunately almost half of the crew had been killed in the battle and subsequent collision.
Even as they tried to bring the Adam Steiner under control, which kept his mind occupied, it scared him to be out of the fight not knowing what was going on outside the WarShip. Three full days in near total blackness later, with only life support working, an Overlord-class DropShip finally docked with the LCS Adam Steiner connecting to the WarShip’s primary cargo bay.
The Spirits had cut their losses and ran from the system, leaving behind the near-wrecked LCS Adam Steiner and the heavily-damaged LCS Storm Watch with the recently arrived LCS Fleet Admiral Lyn Hood.
Arcturus
Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
25th December 3106
All across Lyran space and deep into the Inner Sphere, the haggard image of Patrick Doyle is sent out, relaying the hard-fought victory at Triesting and the beginning of Operation: Christmas Present, as the Lyrans launch a concerted counterattack to force back the Stone Spirits. Hauptmann-General Kathy Parks leads the Third Royal Guards RCT against the two Stone Spirit clusters now stuck on Triesting, while the Second and Fifth LCT’s hit Kelang. The Third LCT, assisted by a battalion from both the Eleventh Commonwealth Guards and the Fifteenth Lyran Guards RCT, removes two Stone Siprit clusters from Etiler.
Meanwhile, General Maria Marik-Johns of the Dismal Disinherited leads the Dismal Disinherited and the First LCT to Sappir attacking two Stone Spirits clusters there, defeating both, but further mauling her own command. On Krung Thep, the Obsidian Lancers Brigade, supported by smaller mercenary units, link up with the Kaumberg Militia Rapid Response Unit, liberating the world from an over-strengthened second-line Stone Spirit cluster.
The Lyran Commonwealth had weathered the Stone Spirit blitz, but at great cost. One warship lost, another adrift but salvageable, and another three needing extensive yard time. On the ground, the cost is further compounded by heavy losses to both their own units and supporting mercenary forces. While only three theatre militia combat teams were lost in the fighting, many Lyran units were nearly destroyed. It will be a long while before they are rebuilt.
Oporto, Stone Spirit Occupation Zone
Periphery
31st December 3106
Star Admiral Malcolm Lynn groggily woke up, finding himself looking up at the blackened ceiling of the RCS Resolute’s bridge. Smoke invaded his nostrils. Coughing, he forced himself up and immediately regretted it. His right arm and shoulder burnt from second and third degree burns and he was fairly sure he had multiple broken bones. Looking across the bridge, he could see some of the bridge crew rouse themselves to help others or assume their standard positions.
“Report,” he growled out as he was helped up by a female Technician, who herself had been injured, juding by the blood on her head and how she kept her left hand close to her.
“We took a kamikaze strike by a DropShip an Overlord-C I think, Star Admiral,” she responded.
He was shocked they were all still alive, though careful not to show it. He nodded to her before looking to where another Technician had pushed himself over to man the tactical console. David, the Warrior manning it before the explosion, floated nearby, dead. The Technician took a moment to study what he was looking at, taking a few seconds longer then what Malcolm would have liked, but it was acceptable under the circumstances, for the man was not a trained Warrior.
“The Stone Spirit warships are making their escape under heavy fire from our Titans and fighters,” he supplied at last. “The RCS Rook is nowhere on the screen, I don't think they jumped, while the RCS Mandrill Provider is dead in the water.”
“Damn stravag dogs!” Malcolm cursed out loud before turning to the Technician manning damage control. “Tom, how soon can we get back in the fight?”
“Doubtful, Star Admiral,” the aerospace phenotype Technician reported. “Multiple decks are reporting severe heavy damage and Engineering reports massive power failures across nearly all our starboard weaponry.”
Malcolm sighed. The attack was meant to damage or destroy the Stone Spirits remaining heavy warships. They had failed, all courtesy of a well-placed kamikaze strike.
“Order our Titans to end their pursuit and begin recovery operations,” he ordered. “Comms, advise all units we failed in neutralizing the Stone Spirits heavy warships and to be on the lookout.”
“Aff, Star Admiral,” the young Collection freeborn manning the comm station answered back.
“Star Admiral,” Tom caught Malcolm’s attention. “I think you need to see this.”
Malcolm glanced at him confusedly, before pushing over to Tom’s station. He growled as he brushed his injured arm against Tom, but looked down at the screen, only to see something that would haunt him to the rest of his days.
“How are we not dead?” Malcolm hissed at Tom, who could only shrug. The Stone Spirit DropShip had crashed directly into the RCS Resolute’s cargo bay holding the vessel’s L-F battery and most of its reserve ballistics and missiles.
His fellow Clan member could only shake his head, as both continued to eye the unbelievable damage the RCS Resolute had survived.
While the Rim Collection’s attempt to capture or destroy the Stone Spirit’s two heavy warships at Oporto ended in failure, their aggressive attack into former Lyran space was not. In the next couple days, the Collection successfully takes the worlds of Oporto, Edmine and Brank from the Stone Spirits, yet they take heavy losses in doing so. With heavy damage done to the Stone Spirits by the Lyrans at Triesting, the renegade clan forces choose to withdraw from the system when the RCS Firestorm arrives. The former Starliner One, unable to retreat so due to battle damage, surrenders itself and the Stone Spirit cluster it is carrying. With no hope to escape, the Stone Spirit cluster on the ground also elects to surrender, hoping to remain Warriors within the Collection. By January 4th, the New Year’s Eve Offensive, as the Collection calls it, final comes to an end.
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very nice update... will be find out what had happened to Starliner One? How are the Stone's finding and maintaining all of those warships?
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They found a badly run down abandoned shipyard at Outpost 27 their first colony that had a few old hulls at it
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They found a badly run down abandoned shipyard at Outpost 27 their first colony that had a few old hulls at it
I'm guessing none of the other factions in universe are aware of that fact?
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I'm guessing none of the other factions in universe are aware of that fact?
that is one way to keep the FM from looking inwards for "training" of there clan units. Still it will be nice if the FM could capture a way to help with there jumpship production. then they could sell them to the IS for some major capital
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Great update, I'm kinda wondering if the the Raven's left that area relatively undefended as a trap to spring on a pair of elite Draconis Regiments. They've gone quite far in, but it's a fairly fragile salient, given the Raven warship capabilities - merely recapturing Zlatousi would force the use of LFB to manage to bring reinforcements to or removing units from the salient in a timely manner. Managing to gain a few bondsmen from the 2nd Genyosha or 1st Sword would be quite a coup for the Ravens (not that I expect many would take bondsmanship over death).
On the other side of the Sphere, the Stone Spirits seem to be showing their lack of depth.
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Great update and it seems that the Ravens either got too cocky with their offensive or are possibly planning something of a trap, both of which is plausable with them. It seems the Spirits ran out of steam but it took some serious work to do so. They were seemingly going for a typical Clan Blitzkrieg approach and grab what they could before the defenders could react.
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will be find out what had happened to Starliner One?
Missjump killed crew, salvaged by Stone Spirits who pressed her into service as a transport.
I'm guessing none of the other factions in universe are aware of that fact?
Interstellar Expeditions suspects but they have nowhere near the firepower they need to go there to confirm the fact. They've passed the information to the Lyrans but so far the Lyrans haven't been interested in heading out that way to a system that may or may not have what they are looking for.
I look at Outpost 27 as the Stone Spirit's version of the Nova Cat's Varnay Anchorage. It's an open secret that they have hidden facilities but where exactly they are no-one can for certain say where the system is and jumping into a system without knowing where the gravity wells are can be... messy.
that is one way to keep the FM from looking inwards for "training" of there clan units. Still it will be nice if the FM could capture a way to help with there jumpship production. then they could sell them to the IS for some major capital
Too far for them at their current capabilities and I have desires on it for someone else...
Great update, I'm kinda wondering if the the Raven's left that area relatively undefended as a trap to spring on a pair of elite Draconis Regiments. They've gone quite far in, but it's a fairly fragile salient, given the Raven warship capabilities - merely recapturing Zlatousi would force the use of LFB to manage to bring reinforcements to or removing units from the salient in a timely manner. Managing to gain a few bondsmen from the 2nd Genyosha or 1st Sword would be quite a coup for the Ravens (not that I expect many would take bondsmanship over death).
On the other side of the Sphere, the Stone Spirits seem to be showing their lack of depth.
Remember a 2D map for us is different for the people of BattleTech they could go up and over or around the systems you see, the only way to blockade a system is to have troops at the Nadir, Zenith, and all pirate points (near impossible). You can make it difficult as you say by blocking off certain systems but using unmarked systems gets around most blockades.
Great update and it seems that the Ravens either got too cocky with their offensive or are possibly planning something of a trap, both of which is plausable with them. It seems the Spirits ran out of steam but it took some serious work to do so. They were seemingly going for a typical Clan Blitzkrieg approach and grab what they could before the defenders could react.
The attack of the Stone Spirits was the brainchild of James Tanaga (with some input from me) but when I first looked over it I saw it exactly as a Clan Blitzkrieg but also something that while the Stone Spirits want to show they are a Clan and they are as bad as Clans they don't have the units to support it.
If they had taken a single "step" forward into Lyran space taking all the systems on their borders and stopped digging in while launching spoiling attacks (one of our original discussions) they could have really hurt the Lyrans but as things evolved well the Stone Spirits really wanted Alarion... they were never getting near it but it was a fun little campaign and they have messed the map up a little bit.
I've attached the Active units and WarShips. I'm sorry to say the Mercs and Periphery units are still missing but hopefully they help get a feel of the current state of military forces
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And the current map is on this thread as it's too big for here
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/dragon-cat-collection/3081-map/15/#lastPost (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/dragon-cat-collection/3081-map/15/#lastPost)
All my stuff is on Knightmare's OurBattleTech site in the Dragon Cat Collection to save you searching this thread for everything feel free to have a look.
As always feel free to ask me any questions or suggest any ideas for this AU in these threads, on OBT or by PM. I'll approach 90% of ideas with an open mind and you might even see it appear in the AU at some point (I have been known to hold onto things for a while... as JA Baker about the Columbia or Mercury... they waited in the shadows too long)
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A new story thread you may be interested in...
Battle of Babylon - For the cause
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=55415.new#new (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=55415.new#new)
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Remember a 2D map for us is different for the people of BattleTech they could go up and over or around the systems you see, the only way to blockade a system is to have troops at the Nadir, Zenith, and all pirate points (near impossible). You can make it difficult as you say by blocking off certain systems but using unmarked systems gets around most blockades.
Not quite what I was getting at. In general, the military forces have a preference for inhabited systems, part of that may be the ease of creating storage depots in the system - most inhabited systems have at least a semi-human friendly planet, so it's pretty easy to stockpile supplies in some out of the way place with mediocre active security and have it likely be just fine. Many of these systems provide a relative safe-haven for quick charging KF drives, if it happens to be damaged, there's a readily available source for food and possibly limited other supplies - not enough to fix the drive for sure, but perhaps enough to prolong the ship in fighting trim by a significant margin. The point I was trying to make was that it makes it more difficult, not impossible nor even particularly difficult, but in war, any delay in needed supplies can be the death knell of even the most elite of units.
With the layout of the forces arrayed in the DC salient, I think any attempt to retake it would require heavy warship support - I count at least 4 regiments, including the Genyosha, and an Omi Kurita carrier, vs. as many as 9 clusters, and 14 warships within striking distance. Now I'm not entirely sure how accurate that is, as your list doesn't include and units in the newer territories - though I suspect, since the Snow Raven and Montbatton are up there that it might be elements of Alpha Galaxy, though Epsilon and Kappa are both close enough to have taken part (also the 100th Battle still exists on the rolls, I'm guessing that's due to them technically existing past the turn of the year, but not much past it).
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Thanks for letting me play in your sandbox Dragon Cat. Always fun to play a part in it! O0
Now some comments.
As to the lack of depth, it was either make the Spirits blitz too quickly and let it catch up to them (what we ultimately decided) or let them blitz properly if slower and have the Spirits have a very likely chance of capturing Alarion, and thus crippling the Lyran Commonwealth and opening it up to its enemies. And no, that wasn't author's fiat, as we both agreed the Spirits if they were conducting themselves properly could have gotten that far. For the Lyran fans, rejoice! My original plan had the Spirits stop just short of Alarion. Triesting was always going to be the ending battle of Spirit's blitz. The reason why we ultimately decided not to go with my original plan was bc doing so would change the direction of the timeline too much with what Dragon Cat has planned. (Dont know either, so dont bother asking)
As far as Station 27 is concerned, ever since the CSS Bloodstone update, I assumed the Mandrills and Collection do know about it, but I never actually discussed it with Dragon Cat. Thinking about it, I should have. But anyways I also assumed with what Dragon Cat has already said; the Collection doesnt have the capability to take it. Destroy it at great cost to their own forces, perhaps, but not outright capture.
Looks like the Dragons are in a world of hurt. I am of the belief the Ravens and Nova Cats are going to keep pushing into the Draconis Combine. >:D
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Honesty always works Vition I screwed up the raven forces I was playing around with another update and must have saved it before putting the pieces back to where they are
The way the forces are arrayed will be how it stands in a month or two which the story will reflect... minus the 100th which I another whoops😳they will disappear sooner rather than later
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Honesty always works Vition I screwed up the raven forces I was playing around with another update and must have saved it before putting the pieces back to where they are
The way the forces are arrayed will be how it stands in a month or two which the story will reflect... minus the 100th which I another whoops😳they will disappear sooner rather than later
Hehe, no worries, that was probably the 3rd possibility I was thinking of, and most people following your story probably aren't as anal as me when it comes to looking at force locations - I really like seeing the how the forces are arrayed in a given border war, I think I did something similar when the FedSuns/FWL were taking down the Liao Commonality.
Also, I think the rest of the clans have reason to fear the burgeoning size and strength of the Ebon Guard, they look to be nearing 4 Galaxies worth of strength. Though, to be fair, they are divided by quite a large distance. With the wrong (or right, depending) loremaster in charge, I could see them start to push the clans into line and become a bit more unified - or result in the destruction of the Ebon Guard.
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After a little distraction in the Homeworlds it's time to take this timeline forward again.
My thanks to marauder648 for the Jade Falcon part at the bottom. It's gone through a little changes since the initial work but it wouldn't be there with the help.
Also if anyone wants a superb looking map of this timeline (instead of my paint job) click on the link in Vition2's signature and you'll see where this timeline is at the start of 3107. Enjoy!!
3107
Interrogation Cell
Babylon, Society Enclave 14
Pentagon Worlds, Deep Periphery
1st January 3107
A cross from the large dark elemental connected with the right of Star Captain Alexander’s face knocking the MechWarrior to the left side of the chair he was tied to. At the best of times the MechWarrior would have been hard pressed to fight off an Elemental but he’d give it a go. For now stripped naked and tied to a chair he had no chance. The warrior looked up at the big warrior but the punch never came instead the red haired woman stepped forward “I am Scientist Teresa Middleton” she said her voice deep and seductive. Through his one good eye Alexander could see she was a beautiful woman.
“I am Alex and I am happy to meet you Scientist Teresa” Alexander replied intentionally omitting her made-up surname. As expected a punch from the dark elemental warrior followed knocking him to the side of his chair again. “Big man when I get out of this chair you are a dead man.”
“Where is your base of operations? Star Captain Alexander” she said using his rank and full name to show she knew more about him.
“I am sorry but you see I am not a Star Captain any more I’m… I am a pirate.” Unsurprisingly another punch followed.
“A pirate that can’t force himself to use one little contraction I think not, Star Captain Alexander, I think you are part of Clan…”
“DON’T YOU DARE SAY THEIR NAME YOU DON’T HAVE THE RIGHT!” He screamed at the young woman his anger boiling over; the time was about right for the outburst if he died now it wouldn’t matter.
“So you can use contractions well done” she said nodding to the elemental who punched him again. As Alex recovered from the punch he could sense the big warrior was away to punch him again but the woman shouted out “Stop!” She said kneeling down in front of him.
“You are wearing a bit too much for that” he said winking his good eye but the Scientist ignored him
“What is that?” she demanded pointing at where his appendix had once been and now a red light blinked out and in.
“Not a clue must have been something I ate” he replied the Scientist stood up and turned to the elemental “I want that object but I want him alive you understand alive if not I’ll kill you myself.” The elemental wordlessly nodded drawing a sharp knife from his belt.
“You know if you had not taken away half his brain to bulk…” Alex began as the dark elemental sliced open his chest he screamed followed by another scream as the big man dug unto the wound looking for the object “…bulk up his body you won’t have to worry about him killing me!” He screamed again as the elemental pulled the object from his body leaving the wound open to bleed the big warrior handed Scientist Teresa the object and then stood against the wall again.
Suddenly the building shook as it was hit with an explosion the Scientist visibly paled “you know I do know what that was…” he said as another explosion rocked the building “it’s a tracking device” he said taunting the Scientist as her eyes darted between Teresa and Alex as another explosion and the sound of gunfire was heard. “What’s wrong never been this close to the fighting?” He said continuing to taunt her as bullets flew through the cell walls.
“They are insane they will kill you before they rescue you!” She said “and if they don’t I will kill you.”
“I don’t care there are at least a hundred clansmen at this facility if one or two of us die for the cause who cares?” He asked taunting her “the flag of Kerensky will fly again over these worlds!”
“Kill him now” she commanded the Elemental but the big warrior did not move “KILL HIM NOW!” She screamed but instead of reacting to her command the dark warrior slid down the wall leaving a trail of blood as he fell four bullet holes had pierced the wall doing enough damage to kill the elemental but failing to travel all the way through his body.
“Seems like you’ll have to get your hands dirty” he taunted her coughing up some blood as more explosions and gunfire could be heard. Before Scientist Teresa Middleton could take a single step the door flung open behind her slamming her in the back and forcing her across the room. A warrior dressed in clan infantry fatigues, the insignia long worn away, stepped into the room holding a large assault rifle. He looked at Alex’s form on the chair turned aimed his weapon and opened fire with several salvos into Teresa’s fallen form the infantry man then fired several into the fallen Elemental. “Overkill?”
“You can never kill one of them enough” the warrior said Alex smiled hearing the man’s voice.
“Mike, what the hell are you doing here on the ground?”
“The whole cluster is here along with transports to get everyone off the ground and the Belisarius is in orbit holding off the Society’s aero assets.” He said proudly cutting the ropes holding Alex down pulling the naked injured MechWarrior to his feet.
“How many signals were active?” He asked Mike knew that Alex was asking about his own unit now. Of the fifteen MechWarriors who had volunteered to go on this one-way mission how many were still alive.
“We detected six signals which is why we knew this was the place” Mike explained helping him into the corridor Alex could see many other prisoners being helped out of their cells by Clan infantry.”
“How many are still active?” He asked knowing that when detected the warriors lifespans would have shortened quickly.
“Three, you Jane and Elrick”
“That old son-of-a-bitch is still alive” he wheezed as Mike helped him along the corridor “so after all of this I am still going to have to put up with that solahma?”
“I can put you back in your cell?” Mike half joked as they continued to move there was continued explosions and gun fire but it came from outside. “You wouldn’t think you have just been rescued from certain death or worse.” He said as they moved
“True, where from here?”
“You’re going into a transport with the rest of the prisoners, up to the Belisarius, onto Fasa and then home.” Mike said “a few of us are staying on Babylon to keep the rebellion going here.” He said seeing Alex’s surprise “there’s still some Clan sympathizers on this planet.”
“Have you got trackers?” He asked wondering if the Khan had ordered another operation.
“No, after today we expect the Society to scan all their prisoners or execute them so no more jobs like this. We’ve got a couple more surprises for them” Mike said as they got outside the cold winter air biting at Alex’s uncovered flesh two unarmed clansmen rushed over with a cover and took Alex off Mike helping him over towards the hovercraft. “You take care son!” Mike shouted after the younger warrior they weren’t blood related but Mike had always seen Alex as the closest thing to a real son.
“I will be back. I will bring the sons of Kerensky back to Babylon!” He called back as he was bundled into the hovercraft. Quickly the hovercraft doors closed and it along with half a dozen hovercraft shot off into the night towards their DropShip.
“This is Star Colonel Mike Lassenem to all members of the Fourteenth mount up it is time we showed these Scientists how true warriors fight battles!” Mike said slinging the rifle over his shoulder he took several steps and grabbed the hanging ladder from his Blood Asp’s cockpit and began to climb. The Clans may have left this planet but the battle for Babylon was just beginning.
Solaris Tri-Vid Services
Solaris City, Solaris VII
Independent System
5th January 3107
“Good evening ladies and gentlemen my name is Charles Kalban and welcome to Solaris VII. It’s been a little over a years since the Clans and Star League Defence Force decided that Solaris needed a new path.” The commentator said as a montage of images was shown of BattleMechs, vehicles and Battle Armour in SLDF and Ebon Guard colours were shown. “The decision for Solaris’ fate was taken out of the hands of the people instead the power of the gun chose our world’s future.” He said the commentator sounded slightly bitter about the choices that had been made “however our world could not continue the way it was heading” he said as the images changed showing the various riots that had plagued Solaris in recent years destroyed competitor BattleMechs intermingled with those of the Star League and various mercenary bands that had gotten involved. “We all expected life to change on Solaris VII but has it?” He asked as images were shown around Solaris City with people going about their business in various shots Clan BattleMechs bearing the crest of the Ebon Guard were shown.
“In short yes, and no, today you cannot walk down a street on Solaris without seeing units of the Ebon Guard or of the Solaris Defence Force but life continues and the games continue.” He said as the images changed from the streets of Solaris into the various stadiums of the the planet as the games continued “as always on Solaris old stars are extinguished each year and new stars rise. This is Solaris ladies and gentlemen the game world will never change. There is money to be earned, victories to be won and one elusive trophy to claim.” He said with the final image showing the Solaris Championship Title trophy which waited the victor of the Solaris Game Season.
Stormchaser (League Block II-class Destroyer)
Spirit, District of Marik
Free Worlds League
11th January 3107
After several years of service to the Illium Naval Engineering of Ionus the Shadow Guard Mercenary Regiment had finally allowed representatives of the company onboard the WarShip they had salvaged from the Spirit system. The ancient League Block II-class Destroyer had been almost completely stripped before the Shadow Guard had boarded the vessel and it was still not fully operational even after all the time. Colonel Tim Storm watched Admiral Michael Bonnan was he was led through the vessel by Captain Phillipe Van Dyke who was in command of the repairs to the vessel. “As you can see Admiral we have made all decks of the Stormchaser airtight. We have replaced all missing armour plate, stripped the facilities for the ancient DropShuttles, replaced the heat dispensation with modern double heat sink technology and replaced the conventional weapons of the original ship with modern versions of the weapons. Unfortunately because of our status and lack of expertise we have been unable to replace any of her missing capital weapons and her transit drive is completely inoperable.”
“You have done very well Captain” the old Admiral said as they moved through the vessel “doing all of this with a couple of tugs and cargo DropShips is truly impressive work.” He said “she really deserves more.”
“Which is why we have brought you in on this project” Tim Storm said from the back “Admiral we want to retain control over the Stormchaser but as you pointed out we need assistance in completing her repairs. We are willing to pay for your services in completing the repairs and for upgrades to the ship.”
“Upgrades?” The Admiral asked turning towards the Colonel.
“On top of replacing her capital weapons there are two DropShip collars we wish to fit two additional collars. We wish to add a layer of anti-missile systems to her weapons array and bring her armour up to modern standards.”
“All expensive propositions if the hull can handle it all.” Bonnan said glancing around the ship for a moment “you know Colonel these things were notorious for having power issues with the original array of weapons?”
“Yes Admiral but the difference between the original League and modern WarShips is that originally the League was ahead of her time trying to stay in touch with the WarShips of the Terran Hegemony. Today you have a lot more experience with WarShips and the engineers of Illium are more than capable of bringing her up to a modern standard. Understand Admiral we have also had interest from Clipperton and Fletcher shipyards in taking the Stormchaser to the next level. Both shipyards want to study her and most likely add a new League Destroyer to their product list.” Storm said watching the Admiral’s reactions “my command have worked with Illium Engineering for quite some time now we want to deal with you but if you think this little project is beyond your current capabilities we are willing to approach other shipyards to bring this ship back to the greatness it once had.”
“I think we can deal Colonel” Admiral Bonnan said “bring Stormchaser to Ionus and we will bring her back online.” He promised the Colonel who nodded his agreement. Tim Storm had a feeling that Bonnan would deal with them fairly but he also had plans to send a detachment of marines and aerospace fighter units with the ship; the Storm Guard would protect their investment.
Nova Cat Offensive
Raven Alliance, Periphery
17th January 3107
With the Draconis Combine pushing into the Raven Alliance the Snow Ravens had begun to reorganize their defences which the Nova Cat forces under saKhan Katrine Devalis instantly took advantage of striking the worlds of Tantalus, Falaknuma, Chi Rho, Lupine IV and Gonthorn. Each world falls to the Nova Cats in rapid Trials of Possession with the Snow Ravens putting up token resistance to the other Clan.
Khan Jana Pryde’s office
Ironhold Command
Incukalns, Jade Falcon OZ
22nd January 3107
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Khan Jana Pryde looked at the report and quietly cursed. It had been a long year she had inherited a shattered Clan with the Falcon Tourman at its weakest point since the Refusal War. Many Trinaries had been reduced to binaries and two Galaxies were shattered shells which probably should have been folded into other units to give them some strength.
Whilst the quality of her troops was superb, all easily marking the much vaunted elite status, they were shattered and exhausted. The last year of peace had allowed them to rest and refit while slowly rebuilding but they still had a lot of work to do. Frontline troops were rotated back to shore up defences that had been left threadbare thin in the drive towards Arc Royal and Incukalns. She had to admit that the strike on Arc Royal had been bold and audacious and despite the losses, successful. The Mountain Wolves had been broken, fleeing as best they could alongside the equally tattered and shredded Kell Hounds. The slog around Incukalns had also wrought terrible damage to the Lyran military, and in truth both sides were swaying on their feet, battered, bruised but unbowed.
The labourers had done wonders at the huge underground SLDF facility that had made Incukalns such a prize, one the Lyrans had apparently utterly missed for centuries. With the geothermal power plant restored to working operation it meant the base would never run low on power and would never threaten the planet or her people, with this power the base opened up to full exploration they found the facility had been mothballed during EXODUS but not completely stripped. Instead the Jade Falcons had found several key components that only the Star League could manufacture had been removed and its hangars had their atmosphere purged with liquid nitrogen before being sealed. As the Clans had inherited the Star League’s technology it was a simple matter of using technology familiar to the Clans to bring the systems online and as a result of the cleaning the Mech’s and vehicles were all in near perfect condition and whilst they were by Clan standards utterly obsolete they were desperately needed by the shattered Falcon Tourman and perfect for garrison troops and had instantly been sent to shore up several units even some of the vehicles had been used by her people though most had been traded to the Sea Fox Clan.
On a huge holo-display Khan Pryde saw the much diminished Falcon holdings highlighted in bright green, her eyes drawn to the narrow salient around the Clan’s capital of Sudeten, the world and its vital factories and genetic repository surrounded by the golden brown of the Horses territory. She knew it was safe the Horses could go as far to closing that salient and still her Falcons would return to Sudeten none of the Clans had reverted to the Inner Sphere’s strategy of interdicting JumpShips.
Whilst the factories that had been captured on Arc Royal had been taken mostly intact they were still being brought up to speed and were for the moment producing Wolf designs simply to fill the gaping holes in the Tourman. Fortunately they were able to churn out the ‘Fire’ variant of the Ironhold Battle Armour and they were being shipped out as quickly as they could to the mauled Battle Armour forces replacing the old Elemental suits previously used by the Falcons.
Manpower was another problem that she had to contend with. The next Sibko’s were due to finish in the next four months but they only gave maybe a hundred and twenty or so MechWarriors and roughly the same in aerospace pilots and Elementals, not enough for the Clan’s needed. Oh it was an impressive figure but it got perhaps one Galaxy up to a fighting strength not below critical. Then it would be another eight months before the next Sibko graduated it wasn’t enough by then the Jade Falcon Clan and the Lyran Commonwealth would likely be in conflict once more she knew that the Jade Falcon warriors could not stand peace too long.
Khan Pryde’s eyes drifted to the Horses and she looked at a report, their attack into Lyran space had netted them very little, their lack of naval assets meant that they could not get their massive Tourman into action. It would take years before the Horses could build a navy powerful enough to strike at the Lyrans leading to a stalemate.
The Horses Trueborns, if they were of the same calibre as her own warriors would be smarting at the defeats and lack of action and general inability to strike back. It could be timely to declare a Harvest trial against the Horses and hopefully take up any warriors who wanted revenge for the humiliation they had suffered. Over the next year it would give her warriors a release from the lack of combat. Declaring such a Trial would have to be carefully done. Come across as too brash or too weak and they might well provoke the Horses into attacking the Falcons holdings. And in truth she knew that if they made a general assault it would cause far more damage to her Clan than she could allow.
At least there was some good news the Jade Falcon naval forces had been given a chance to withdraw from the front lines and be repaired. The Jade Aerie and Jade Eagle were acting as flagships for the cruiser groups whilst the Falcons Nest was in orbit over Incukalns, the Emerald Talon was being rotated back to Sudeten and the Turkina’s Might covered Arc Royal. All naval forces had explicit orders to NOT grant Safcon if a world they were over was attacked. Her Clan didn’t have the strength to stop an attacker any other way.
Whilst Ironhold Command was now rapidly becoming the centre of the Clan’s command and control and anti-DropShip weaponry was being fitted, they still needed more ground forces. Khan Jana Pryde had cut orders to increase the size of the Sibko’s as best they could, whilst she was looking at ways of getting Spheroids to fight for them. Conscription was obvious but it yielded unwilling ‘recruits’ and gave rise to the risk of unrest and revolt. Perhaps a loosening of restrictions on the Spheroids was in order, but she knew that she would face a challenge for such a decision. But if it cost her a Galaxy Commander then so be it.
‘At least we do not have so many mouths to feed and our worlds can feed our population without going to rationing’. That part was true, so many worlds traded to the Hell's Horses they had fewer mouths to feed and less space to cover. And with the people well fed they were happy. ‘Perhaps a…what is that term…ah yes ‘charm offensive’ is needed.’
Khan Pryde knew that her people were just as tired as her Warriors, and like them, they needed rest. An increase in food production, more readily available consumables at home increases to civil liberties could well do that and show the Spheroids that they were not a conquered people but part of the Clan now. A year left to rebuild, another year with factories running three shifts whilst quietly praying that the Sea Foxes did not take offence and hike their prices up. Careful management of their production and training, disciplined Galaxy and Cluster commanders was still needed and careful management of their Hell’s Horses allies and the Jade Falcon Clan would return to greatness.
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Good to see the Falcons with a thinker as a khan.
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Pretty sweet update. Sucks to be a Mountain Wolf.
Question: What heck is going on, with Khan Pryde. She different Pryde who was Khan of the Falcons in the 3130s, right?
Question: We going get stats for this new version of the League Block II destroyer? O:-) :) :)
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Pretty sweet update. Sucks to be a Mountain Wolf.
Question: What heck is going on, with Khan Pryde. She different Pryde who was Khan of the Falcons in the 3130s, right?
Question: We going get stats for this new version of the League Block II destroyer? O:-) :) :)
Same name different person in short it saved me creating someone new
It'll be a League III and not for a while
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Great update DC :) And i'm honoured ya put my Turkey flavoured bit in there :)
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More from me, marauder648 (Raven) and James Tanaga (Mandrill). Both marauder and James Tanaga your contributions are as always most appreciated and add much to this AU.
I'll post the DropShip Cradle stats sometime soon possibly alone with the Behemoth variants
Skirmish
Prochnow Settlement, Devil’s Rock
Star League Protectorate
3rd February 3107
After weeks of observation things on Devil’s Rock had gone from bad to worse rapidly near the Prochnow Settlement for the SLDF observation teams. It had started early in the morning of the second when the Prochnow family supporting Bobby Winchester had come out firing. All at once they had opened fire on three of the SLDF’s observation posts and begun to move. Morgan Christifori’s unit had not been on duty when it had all kicked off but now they were in the thick of it with Morgan’s Penetrator standing in the centre of the SLDF line as they advanced towards the Prochnow family’s position. “Okay people if they are able to push through they will fall back to their settlements in the mountains and we’ll be stuck with them holed up there for the next few years.” Morgan said briefing the others under his command “High Command does not want a PR fiasco or a drawn out conflict so we are it…”
“No PR fiasco! What do you call thirteen dead and double that injured?” Ralph asked angrily his ninety ton Mauler taking several steps forward it was the heaviest Mech they had.
“They don’t want to make things worse” Alex said his four Mechs and two other BattleMech lances were the immediate forces available while the First Devil’s Rock Regiment were holding the perimeter. The problem with the First was they didn’t know exactly which pilots still held loyalties to the criminal families of Devil’s Rock.
“What’s our orders boss?” Alex asked so far they had been held back from the action her light Cougar OmniMech was the smallest they had but it was built with Clan technology which gave it that little extra punch.
“Contain them and hopefully talk them down. Bobby Winchester surrenders today or we attack and force the surrender of the compound.”
“Boss, we’ve seen over two hundred individuals go in and out of that settlement there could be a lot of collateral damage if we attack.” Adam warned his Barghest was a little lighter than Morgan’s Penetrator and was built on a quad chassis.
“We are not going to let that happen” Morgan said moving his BattleMech forward towards the Prochnow family’s position. The other three BattleMechs of the lance moved with him towards the criminal family on his sensors Morgan could see six BattleMechs of medium size or smaller and several armoured vehicles arrayed together surrounding several transports which probably carried the Prochnow civilians and valuables. “Alex when we get close I want you to probe the transports find out which one has people in it and which one has equipment.”
“They will all have people in them” she point out thinking of the drivers.
“I know” Morgan admitted as they closed he switched communications channels “this is Captain Morgan Christifori of the Star League Defence Force you are ordered to surrender your munitions and Bobby Winchester to us immediately or face the consequences.”
“Captain Christifori my name is Ruskova Prochnow I cannot and will not surrender all of our weapons if I did that my family would be vulnerable to a take over from other families. Mr Winchester is under contract as a hired gun with my family to turn him over would breach our contract with him making it an expensive proposition.” She said Morgan shook his head watching the Prochnow BattleMechs moving around in their formation they both knew that the Prochnow family had other “assets” in the mountains which would protect them. He saw a message flash up in the Penetrator’s cockpit from Alex identifying the transport which appeared to have the least living beings in the formation.
“The more trouble you cause the more it will cost you.” Morgan said switching channels “get read!” He commanded twisting the Pentrator’s torso towards the vehicle Alex had indicated triggering all six medium pulse lasers breaching the vehicle’s armour in multiple locations turning the vehicle into a fireball. Morgan detected several targeting systems on his BattleMech but he kept his large lasers down and off target and no further weapons were fired “Ruskova Prochnow” he called out on the general frequency.
“What kind of negotiation is this?” Prochnow shouted down the channel at Morgan he saw a Bushwacker BattleMech take several steps towards his Penetrator.
“I knew that vehicle had the least people in it” Morgan answered noticing on his display that Alex had indicated another he twisted the BattleMech’s torso to the right ignoring the closing Bushwacker “I know that this vehicle has few people in it as well.”
“You will die before it can fall Christifori” another voice, this one male, said speaking up Morgan saw the Huron Warrior had leveled its weapons on his BattleMech.
“Shut up Winchester!” Prochnow called out “Christifori do not fire”
“Surrender the weapons and…” he began just as Bobby Winchester opened fire on the Penetrator as the Silver Bullet Gauss Rifle and Pulse laser flared to life cutting into the Penetrator’s armour savaging the right hand side of Morgan’s Mech. Christifori twisted the torso of the Penetrator towards the Huron Warrior and saw that the other Prochnow BattleMechs had not fired “guys hold fire cover Prochnow” he commanded “I have Winchester” he said firing both extended-range large lasers one connecting with the Huron Warrior’s left arm the other going wide. The renegade MechWarrior Winchester suddenly accelerated his BattleMech forward trying to escape.
“Boss, I’m faster” Alex called out her Mech was also fifteen tons lighter than Winchester’s but Morgan already had ideas scanning the buildings around him.
“And I have options” he said launching the Penetrator into the air jumping up onto a nearby building. The Penetrator’s legs flexing as the jump jets cut out and the seventy-five ton BattleMech came to rest on top of a nearby building. Immediately Morgan sighted Winchester’s BattleMech and triggered both large lasers targeting the back of the Huron Warrior’s left leg one laser burned into the armour while the other blew out the Mech’s knee actuator. The fifty ton BattleMech stumbled and fell forwards. Morgan jumped his BattleMech off the building towards the fallen medium Mech marching forwards keeping his guns on the Huron Warrior as it tried to regain its footing. “Stay down” Morgan ordered firing his lasers over the downed Mech instead of trying to stand the warrior forced the Mech into a roll turning it onto its back Morgan knew from experience that it wasn’t a good thing to do to a Mech as armour plate grated against the ground. Moments later the Huron Warriors two arm mounted weapons opened up on Morgan’s BattleMech the large pulse laser burning over the heavy Mech’s torso while the Silver Bullet Gauss slugs flew over the Penetrators right shoulder. Morgan continued to walk towards the downed BattleMech as a second salvo of pulse laser blasts and another cluster shot of silver bullet shots flew into his BattleMech this time enough was enough and Morgan retaliated targeting the right arm with both large lasers burning through the arm at the shoulder. Taking several steps closer he twisted the BattleMech’s torso and fired both lasers again this time into the left arm damaging several of the actuators in the arm. “Enough is enough” he said looking down at the now disabled BattleMech “Adam move up dismount and take Winchester into custody.” He commanded as the Barghest moved forwards almost at the same time the Prochnow family moved as one charging off to the right.
“We’ve got a breach” Ralph reported watching the Prochnow forces moving away from the two SLDF Mechs but holding their fire.
“Don’t fire” Morgan commanded “we are too spread out to contain them ourselves. Charlie One to Delta and Echo units Prochnow family units heading east. We have Winchester in custody.” He said “Ralph, Alex shadow them if Charlie and Echo units move in you are cleared to support their actions but don’t try and secure yourselves.” He said from both sides SLDF lances were moving in each with a mix of medium and heavy units with the firepower of eight BattleMechs in front of them and two BattleMechs following the Prochnow family agreed to surrender their remaining forces to the SLDF.
Over the next couple of days charges were placed against several of the members of the Prochnow family for the deaths at the observation posts. Bobby Winchester and his Huron Warrior were taken into custody by the SLDF with Winchester himself being extradited to Saffel to face charges for Duke Dean Singer’s murder. With a little but of convincing their commanders allowed the unit to keep Winchester’s BattleMech which replaced Alex’s Cougar and brought her Mech in line with the rest of the lance with a Clan laser and the electronics from the Cougar replacing the large pulse laser on the Huron Warrior.
Trial of Possession
Tukayyid System
Clan Space Inner Sphere
11th February 3107
Warrior Faridah Fire Mandrill kept her Parthia-Prime OmniFighter on the tail of her opponent, a Jade Falcon Scytha, continuing to keep up the fire from the Extended-Range Medium Lasers in her fighter’s nose and wings. The Parthia, like the forty-five ton Sarmatia and one hundred ton Hun OmniFighters her Clan was deploying in this Trial of Possession were designed to keep Fire Mandrill aerospace assets up to date. One thing the Fire Mandrills were trying to keep under wraps was that the fighters involved in this trial made up the majority of the produced OmniFighters they made a nice show and appeared to be quite effective. And so far, Faridah could see all three designs were doing just that. One on one, the three newer OmniFighters was showing themselves superior to their Jade Falcon opponents.
Yet to be a part of this trial, Star Captain Eduard Wirth had been forced to bid only Alpha and Beta stars of their trinary against the full Jade Falcon trinary they were battling against. Three against two were unfavorable odds at the best of times. Against the Jade Falcons, it made the Trial of Possession for the newly built York in Tukayyid’s orbit had become far more difficult.
Yet she smiled ferally as her opponent’s Scytha OmniFighter lose control and then quickly exploded as she arched portside, allowing her to miss the Scytha’s wreckage. As she awaited her next opponent, she took a glance at her radar and quickly whistled. From her vantage point, she could see only one of the four Sarmatia’s still running, badly damaged at that. Yet only three of the ten Parthia OmniFighters her Clan fielded in the fight had so far been lost and while all the rest, her own included, suffering some damage, only two she knew were combat ineffective. What impressed her most was the fact the four one hundred ton Hun OmniFighters her Clan brought to the Trial of Possession were effectively taking on all comers from Clan Jade Falcon. All four were badly damaged, but continuing to destroy anything in their way.
“Beta 4-2, redeploy with Point Beta-2 and follower Beta 2-1’s orders, quiaff?” the voice of Star Commander Louis Fire Mandrill erupted into her radio.
“Aff,” she radioed back as she arced her Parthia to starboard, intent through the black space battlefield to where Beta 2’s two Parthia OmniFighters flew. A few moments later, as she joined the formation, she saw both 70-ton OmniFighters were badly damaged and grimaced. It meant she would have to pick up the slack for them should fighting continue.
Slowly but surely the other duels slowly ended and the Fire Mandrills slowly coalesced around Beta 2 Faridah could see they had lost two further Parthia OmniFighters and one of the 100-ton Huns. Of the eleven remaining OmniFighters the Mandrills still fielded, she knew only four were only moderately damaged, her own included.
They didn’t wait long, as the third and final Jade Falcon star finally arrived onto the battlefield. Faridah noted absently more and more aerospace assets belonging to other Clans had formed around the outside of the assigned battlefield. “Let them watch” the voice of Point Commander Alec came into her speakers. “Soon enough, victory will be ours.”
She nodded, agreeing with the slightly older pilot. “Aff,” she radioed back as both the Jade Falcons and her clan began to dance in space. Soon, her next opponent became clear.
A new, voice came into her radio, as a pristine Visigoth belonging to her Jade Falcon opponent came upon her wing. “Warrior Clara Jade Falcon to Fire Mandrill Beta 4-2. You are to be my opponent.”
“And you mine,” Faridah agreed in her radio. “Let us take our duel to the sidelines, less we initiate a brawl between our two Clans, quiaff?” she radioed back a moment later.
“Aff,” she heard Clara radio to her. A moment later, both fighters broke off from the main battle and sprinted to the invisible ventral sideline that marked the boundary of where the battle was located. Fardidah idly noted the other duels were doing the same and nodded. Ever since her Clan was welcomed to Tukayyid and again accepted as an Inner Sphere Clan, the Fire Mandrills had slowly become known to the others for matching their fellow Clan’s zellbrigen and so while their Trials were as intense as any other, brawls were uncommon. The fact the Mandrills were ordered to keep from being seen as the initiator by their Khans less the entire Clan become dezgra helped, for what true Warrior, nay Clansmen, would put their Clan at risk?
Just as they reached the ventral boundary, she noted her Jade Falcon opponent break from her port side and begin a long circle. After turning her own Parthia around to face her opponent and recheck her equipment she piped into her radio. “Let our duel begin. Seyla!”
“Seyla!” Clara announced over her radio and soon both OmniFighters begin to charge against one another.
Faridah noted indicators showing her Parthia had been painted with a missile lock. “Amateur,” she growled out, as she saw missiles coming from her opponent. Just as they were about to hit her Parthia, she slammed the thrust control down as she pivoted to the ventral side and was slammed back into her seat, as her OmniFighter pushed itself to just a hair over 5.5 G’s of thrust, its maximum speed. Though she felt her fighter get hit twice, she calmly noted most of the missiles had missed.
All too soon, she felt laser fire begin to hit her Parthia and noted Clara was matching her step by step. When she would pivot to the port, her opponent would as well. To the starboard, she would be on her tail starboard. She tried breaking and was surprised her opponent met her break with her own. She started to panic as she finally realized her opponent was well versed in dog fighting. “Not an amateur, monkey,” her opponent snarled back over the radio.
Faridah was too busy fighting for her life now, as the Parthia’s controls became non-responsive. Suddenly, she felt the ejector seat launch herself into space.
“Well fought, monkey. If you perhaps live, I will gladly take you as my bondswoman,” she heard her opponent over the radio as she watched the undamaged Visigoth launch itself back into the battlefield. Soon, an Ebon Guard shuttle had arrived, finding her from her homing beacon and snatched her up from the black space.
Within the shuttle she was gladdened to see many of her fellow Mandrills, but disheartened as well, for it meant the battle was not going well for her Clan. Three hours later, she learnt of the fate of the Trial of Possession, courtesy of the Ebon Guard pilot piloting the shuttle. Her Clan had won, but at a heavy price. Only two Parthias and a Hun had survived to the end of the Trial. The Falcons even less, a single Visigoth. And while the Mandrills suffered primarily in the loss of seventeen new OmniFighters, only one pilot was killed. The Falcons lost nearly an entire trinary of OmniFighters and Warriors.
It gnarled at her the day after the Trial when she finally met the pilot of the lone surviving Jade Falcon Visigoth. It was Clara, her opponent from the Trial of Possession. And what made it worst? She was her new Point Commander. Terrific, Faridah Fire Mandrill thought sarcastically to herself as she and her trinary began to study the Trial of Possession they had won the day earlier.
Meeting Room, Subtlety (McKenna MOD)
Galatea System, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
16th February 3107
Captain William Leroy-Deitrich had only returned to the Subtlety a few days before and already he his ship had been approached by four DropShip commanders. “Welcome onboard the Subtlety” he said looking at the four DropShip commanders sat around the table beside him inside one of the gravity decks. One the wall a large screen mimicked a viewport showing the massive Galatea Station off the Subtlety’s port bow.
“Thank you Captain a very impressive ship you have here.”
“Yes it is” Leroy-Deitrich said “you requested this meeting?”
“Affirmative, I am Liam Pearson” one of the DropShip captains said speaking up he was the oldest of the four captains and appeared to be the one in charge. “We four” he said indicating to himself and the two others “have formed what we believe is a unique Mercenary Command. As you may be aware we have two Behemoths, a single Mule and a single Octopus-class Tug we specialize in salvage and repair work.”
“An admirable task” Leroy-Dietrich admitted “but how does it concern my ship? We work to improve naval and aerospace fighter combat.”
“Yes but your ship is not at one hundred percent” another of the captains said “you have several compartments exposed to space, parts of your vessel you cannot use, we believe we can help you with that.”
“The compartments we cannot access are minor” Leroy-Dietrich said trying to pass off that the damage did not restrict the Subtlety’s capabilities. In fact in some ways they did there were several power and data lines that had to be routed around the vessel to avoid damaged areas because putting them through the exposed sections would make minor repairs a major undertaking.
“Even then the damage does not look good” Pearson said speaking up “although you have stated your intention is for your vessel to remain in this system if you did ever decide to move the damage already done to this craft shows that it can be damaged. That there are weakened sections in its armour plating” he pointed out “we can repair that. We could also assist you in bringing back online some of the weapons that are currently offline or adding additional capabilities that this ship lacks such as missile defence systems.” He suggested again it was an interesting proposal but of course it all came down to cost.
“How much?” He decided to ask the captains straight out “we are a school we cannot afford massive rates for repairs.” He admitted it was one of the reasons that he hadn’t booked a private berth in one of the Inner Sphere’s shipyards to make the repairs everything Subtlety made went back into its school improving their capabilities for the next years classes.
“We can come up with a reasonable arrangement” Pearson said glancing at the others who nodded “we have no interest in bankrupting your school Captain. Instead we would be content with you covering the costs of the parts needed to repair your vessel, access to the facilities on board your ship during our crews downtime and a public announcement from the Subtlety Training College that you were placing the repairs of your ship in the hands of our crew.”
“Not too much then” Leroy-Dietrich joked in all honesty it was not a huge cost the parts would be reasonably priced if they went to the right people. Access to the Subtlety’s facilities could be controlled by the ship’s on board security complement and these people did deserve credit for their work. “And who should I say is conducting these repairs?”
“We are The Repair Group” Pearson said simply Leroy-Dietrich suppressed a smile for he guessed that it wouldn’t be as simple a job as the group’s name. The next day Captain William Dietrich hired time on the Galatea Station’s HPG and broadcast a message on the Interstellar Network stating that the Subtlety would be remaining in business while repairs were done to the ship by The Repair Group who had accepted a contract to enhance the WarShip’s capabilities. At the same time The Repair Group’s DropShips had already begun to move into position. According to Captain Pearson the two Behemoths had been modified with what the group called a “DropShip Cradle” which was essentially an extendable repair lattice like that seen on a larger YardShip. One Behemoth, known as Ratchet, approached from the port side the DropShip cradle opened like a massive mouth with a framework extending along the sides of the McKenna while the DropShip itself clamped onto the WarShip. On the starboard side the other Behemoth-class vessel, known as Driver, did the same providing a framework for the workers to use while they repaired the vessel. With the two Behemoth’s attached the Octopus-class Tug, named Spanner, was able to move along the hull assisting engineers and providing them with the heavy lift gear needed to move some of the pieces into position and removing pieces that were not required. The vessel of the quartet of DropShips was the Mule-class vessel, known as Foreman, it served in two purposes firstly it was where the three repair DropShips coordinated their work through, secondly it acted as The Repair Groups cargo runner with the ship often leaving to get more supplies then returning them to other ships. During this repair operation the Subtlety was unable to use its engines and was moved entirely by the Octopus-class Tug however it was receiving much needed maintenance and the Galatea system was a friendly one so Captain Leroy-Dietrich did not make a big fuss about it. With their teams doing such public work The Repair Group was getting some much needed publicity.
Snow Raven (Snow Raven Battleship)
Jump Point, Kazanka
Raven Alliance
23rd February 3107
The DCS Aurora Lance was burning, listing and down by the bow, her RCS thrusters firing to prevent her from rolling fully as her two remaining engines pulsed and burbled brief flashes of fusion fire in answer to jumbled commands from the ships computer.
Her once pristine passageways were now darkened, lit only by the flashes of the emergency and alert lights that pulsed amber and crimson.
“My Khan the vessel is secure, the Combine sailors fought hard but we have secured the magazines, engine room and bridge.”
“Very well. Open the ships outer cargo bays and open all hatches, purge the air and any survivors.”
“Aff my Khan!” The warrior replied without hesitation despite the brutality of the order.
Aboard the CSR Snow Raven Khan Vir Sukhanov looked out of the battleship’s bridge at the crippled cruiser that had fallen to the boarding action launched by his ship. In the distance there was a slowly expanding ball of debris and chunks of metal that had once been the DCS Makinami, the destroyer had been obliterated in the opening moments of the engagement as the Raven’s Fleet Command Star had jumped in on top of them.
Of course their real prize was not here, the DCS Shiro Kurita and her escorts had withdrawn into Combine space to refuel and replenish their aerospace arm after taking heavy casualties taking Alliance worlds.
This operation was supposed to have netted or destroyed an Omi Kurita class Carrier, but instead they had to settle for a heavy cruiser that had refused to surrender. Even when her hull and interior was crawling with Elementals and Mech’s from the Snow Raven and her hull pierced by gunfire she kept firing. The CSR Hunter had paid for that defiance the destroyer’s armour had been breached in several locations and it was all but lost the Khan had already ordered the vessel stripped of equipment which would be used to repair its heavily damaged sister ship the Bloody Talon.
That the ground forces, especially the Spheroids had fought so well had been surprising to say the least. It seemed that the Outworlders did have a spine when it came to defending their homes. Even the Freebirth MechWarriors and Solhama troops had fought harder than expected and the Combine was being made to bleed for the worlds they were taking.
“Navigation.”
“Aff My Khan!”
“Bring us to low orbit. Communications!” He bellowed turning towards another station.
“Aye Sir!”
“Signal the fleet to conform to the Flagships maneuvers, order our assault DropShip to return to the fleet save those evacuating Hunter. I want the Kirishima secured and ready to jump within 72 hours.” He said ensuring they kept their prize ship.
“Aff Sir!”
The assault on the Combine could be viewed as a success, the warrior’s who were growing restless had bloodied themselves, worlds had been claimed and honours earned. It had also been a test of the Alliance’s political and military unity. Many Trueborn had doubted that the Alliance had the will to fight, and whilst getting the support to take their troops into worlds of the Combine had been difficult, when tasked fight fighting the Spheroids had ‘stood up in the trenches’ and fought well, for Spheroids of course. The Second Genyosha continued to resist on the planet's surface but without air superiority it was only a matter of time the Khan would offer them Hegira and allow them to fall back into the Combine hopefully saving his own troops and the Genyosha from mutual annihilation.
The fleet was now fully deployed, but for the moment at least both the Combine and Ravens seemed to be avoiding a full fleet action, the planned capture of the DCS Shiro Kurita by the Fleet Command Star was to have been the largest action of the war thus far but the Combine had pulled their ships out just a day before the attack, which of course could not be accounted for.
Polite overtures were also being made on Tukkayid with the Dominions representatives but thus far their reception to a potential attack against the distracted Combine had been lukewarm at best. As always the Bear’s seemed to want to move with leaden feet when speed was of the urgency here. Of course the Bears were watching the Combine border but they seemed disinclined to step over it and the Combine was seemingly going out of its way to NOT provoke the Dominion, lest they be at the centre of a three Clan feeding frenzy.
There were also the reports that the SLDF was deploying WarShips and ground forces to help the Combine. Perhaps it would be best if the offensive was called to a halt now. Honours were roughly even and the Alliance had shown it was not to be trifled with. And if the SLDF and Combine forces then turned on the Nova Cats and their occupied worlds, such a pity.
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RCS Providence
All Dawn, Rim Collection
Periphery
24th February 3107
Khan Natasha Faraday looked out from the observation deck of the RCS Providence on at the battered and cripple husk of what was once the Spirit of York, now the RCS Wildfire. Her Mandrills were busy repairing and reconfiguring the ancient Dart-class light cruiser to a more modern and useful configuration, but she knew it would take months for it to be completed. She barely kept herself from sighing.
The last two months were hard on the Rim Collection Naval Touman. Two warships lost, another nearly crippled, and the crippling of the Mandrill’s primary capital ship, the RCS Resolute. The New Syrtis-class carrier was beyond lucky to have survived. If Laborer Michelle had not sacrificed herself and vented the entire cargo bay into space as the Overlord-C DropShip was beginning its final run to ram the RCS Resolute, the carrier would have been lost. For her sacrifice, the Mandrills had posthumously given the Laborer Warrior status and her Bloodhouse, Bloodhouse Jannik, had allowed her genes to become part of the Mandrills genetics program. She knew the other Clans would shake their heads at this, but for the Mandrills, it was long something the Mandrills have done. Not nearly so public though, she conceded.
She nodded to herself as she continued her gaze upon the warship below. Though the crippling of the RCS Resolute and the loss of both the RCS Elysium and RCS Rook was unfortunate, already the Mandrills and the Collection were both moving forward.
She came out of her thoughts when she heard someone stepping up to her and noted pleasantly it was Damien Redburn. A few moments passed by as both looked down upon the ongoing work to repair the RCS Wildfire. “You wished to speak to me personally, quiaff?” he asked, using the Clan term in respect for her.
“Aff. The other Clans were very impressed with the capabilities of our new OmniFighters,” she informed the Rim Collection president. “Impressed enough a few have declared Trials of Possession for production schematics for them.”
“I assume they are still unaware that the fighters we deployed are the only examples we currently field?” He asked the Khan nodded their Watch had done well by the Clan so far hiding what the Mandrills were able to deploy “which Clans and for which designs?”
“So far, the Sarmatia has only gained some side-interest from Ravens and Falcons, but that is to be expected at this time,” she informed her nominal leader. She caught him nodding in thought at that.
“I studied the after action reports. The light OmniFighters are too armored for the other Clans liking, quiaff?” he queried her.
Natasha nodded back. “Aff.”
“We could possibly trade the design to Clan Mountain Wolf, I guess,” he propositioned out loud, making Natasha wince. “Or just give the design outright to Clan Sea Fox. It isn’t like we could produce the OmniFighter ourselves anyways, a good proof of concept design.” Though designed by the Fire Mandrills, both knew Clan Sea Fox was the actual supplier of the craft, what with the Collection not having a supplier of their own for the 360 estralight fusion engines the light OmniFighter required. That didn’t mean either liked that fact though. Another moment passed as each stared out the observatory window.
“What of the Parthia?” Damien asked her, breaking the silence.
“All the Clans have an interest in that design,” she informed him. “Though so far, only the Falcons and Horses have engaged in Trials of Possession for the design.”
“Did we lose the design to either of them?” he queried back to her.
“Only to the Hell’s Horses barely, though the Falcons deployed a new OmniMech of their own in their Trial. We took one from the Trial and another was rebuilt using salvage. Some kind of advanced Summoner design,” she answered back. “I plan on issuing a Trial of Possession for the design once two stars of Kirghiz-G OmniMechs arrive at Tukayyid. If we fail we may attempt to trade the Parthia for it.”
“What of the Hun?” he queried her finally.
“Clan Nova Cat is planning to issue a Trial of Possession for the design in the coming weeks,” she informed him. “Meanwhile, all the other Clans are interested in it. The Rasalhague Dominion and the Ravens are especially interested though I believe they are planning on waiting until they see how the Nova Cats do.”
“I see,” he commented back before another moment of silence passed between the two. “I noticed the Sea Fox Khanates seem to be quiet about the designs. A bit too quiet.”
An awkward silence came over the two as Khan Natasha Faraday debated whether to answer him, but in the end decided to. “Khan Evangeline Clarke and I are in negotiations to trade the RCS Mandrill Provider and one, possibly both OmniFighter designs, in return for a new Hakaze-class destroyer her Clan is building in the Chainelane Isles.”
Damien Redburn nodded. “It makes sense, I supposed. The RCS Providence can only repair one ship at a time and our own warship fleet is too disparate in terms of designs and parts to quickly repair them usually. Though, if the Trial of Possession for that Summoner design is successful, we could trade that instead. Next time, though, just warn me,” he lightly chided her.
She nodded, expecting his answer. Unlike Jerry Able, President Damien Redburn had no interest in forcing the Rim Collection as the superior of the two and instead worked to integrate both the Collection and her Mandrills as one party. Something she too strives for, even if many other Mandrills did not. “Aff.”
“That does bring up something I wished to discuss with you though Khan,” he commented. “We have no shipyards of our own and the RCS Providence, while a respectable refit ship, is limited to repairing only one WarShip or JumpShip at a time. Nor can it fully repair the damage done to the RCS Resolute.”
Natasha nodded to him. “Khan Clarke and I discussed that as well. She does not mind having her Clan’s shipyard in the Chainelane Isles repairing ad upgrading the RCS Resolute to a fully modern configuration should we turn over Starliner One to her Khanate.”
“I guess it works with the proposal Archon Jessica Steiner laid out to me,” Damien conceded. He elaborated when he saw the young Khan’s questioning look in her eyes as she turned to glance at him. “Once the RCS Providence is done with the RCS Wildfire, it will head to Triesting, where it will assist with the repair of the engines to the LCS Adam Steiner and allow it to return to Alarion.”
He waved his hand placating the now angered Fire Mandrill Khan. “In return we get safe passage for all our ships, either JumpShips or WarShips, and an end to nearly all trade and economic embargoes the Lyran Commonwealth has against the Rim Collection.”
The younger Khan deflated and turned to once more watch the ongoing repairs out the window. “I guess it works out, quiaff?” she surmised openly.
“It does,” Daimen agreed.
“Khan Clarke may have an idea to solve our bigger problem,” she spoke up after another moment of silence. Soon both were deep in conversation that lasted for hours.
As the month of February ends, a large JumpShip fleet carrying a large number of Fire Mandrill warriors surround the RCS Resolute, the RCS Mandrill Provider, and Starliner One as they begin their journey out of the Rim Collection to the Chainelane Isles. On board the fleet is Khan Natasha Faraday and Brienne Redburn, daughter of President Damien Redburn, who is accompanying the Mandrills to represent the interests of the Rim Collection in the Chainelane Isles.
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Great update Dragon Cat! Good to see the Rim Collective is getting together, that loss of a full Cluster is something the Falcon's can't really take either.
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Wow, that was a wopper of a double update! I like Raven Alliance part, blooding of the Combine.
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This month's update would not be what it is without marauder648 who came up with the basics for the Marian and Snow Raven/Combine sections so please join me in the thanks for the contribution.
And for anyone curious the ship spoken about in this first section is on this thread below
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=55260.0 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=55260.0)
Sister Cassandra’s Residence
Alphard, Marian Hegemony
Periphery
5th March 3107
Sister Cassandra smiled as her guest was ushered into her gardens, the Prole bowing low as he was dismissed with a wave of the hand. “Artur, please ensure that refreshments are brought up but please let me know when you are coming.” Despite her quite demeanour there was no question to if she was in charge or not.
“Yes Mistress” he replied bowing deeply withdrawing from the room.
Once the slave was gone Cassandra smiled “Brother, it is most agreeable to see you again, I trust you are faring well.”
“Sister” the man replied. He was an older gentleman, in his late 60’s, grey and silver hair combined with a near white beard made him look regal and dignified, like Cassandra he wore a white cloak, but his other garments were of the types worn by the Patricians and even then most could not afford the sheer quality of his garments. He smiled warmly, dark brown eyes glinting in the low light of the gardens.
“It is good to see you too and yes, all is well. But tell me, why could we not have talked via HPG? It would have been a lot quicker although I did enjoy the trip to Alphard.”
“Security, and... in truth I missed you.” She said smiling by blood he was not her brother but he had trained her and was as committed to their cause as she was. “It has been too long since I’ve seen anyone else and whilst my Marian guests are… agreeable, they can be quite boorish. “
“The Caesar treats you well? If he does not...”
“He does, he is young but he is strong, like his mother and father, and whilst he values my advice he is very much like his mother, he will chart his own course. And no brother, he does not treat me poorly, the Marians would be looking for a new Caesar if he did try anything.” She said with a wicked smile.
The older man chuckled “I trust your abilities and intellect Sister, as always.” There was a soft chime and Cassandra nodded and once more the doors at the back of the gardens open and her senior slave watched as two more came in carrying a platter of delicacies, the other a wine gourd and two glasses.
“Shall we?” Cassandra said as she moved to sit on an expansive recliner. The view was spectacular; this was just one of her homes, a benefit of being a close adviser to Caesar Ward. Below the black expanse of the forests seemed to stretch on for eternity whilst the distant light of the Capital could be seen. To the east the sea glinted in the moonlight whilst the stars glinted overhead. The slaves left the food and withdrew as Cassandra poured her guest some wine.
“How long did that take to get use to?”
“The slaves? A few months, Caesar Ward has continued some reforms that met with sometimes vocal opposition, those voices are silenced now and the results have paid off. I’ve a staff of two hundred, including fifty Plebs now I hardly notice them.” She admitted
“So Sister, why did you call me here, let us get to the matter yes?”
“Four months ago the Marians found something out there” she said indicating to the sky above her “a ship” she said finally.
“A ship?”
“Yes, a Star League era exploration vessel.”
“Show me” he said now intrigued Cassandra didn’t smile, but she knew she had him. On the table between them was a holo display and it sprang to life, a slowly rotating picture of the C Sagan, an Endeavour-class Research Vessel. The ship was a strange looking vessel it had a small compact forward area with multiple solar panels and sensors, behind was a DropShip docking tower with a docking collar mounted on the bottom on it. A massive gravity deck made up the middle section of the ship while a large communications and sensor dish took up a large section of the aft dorsal hull. At the rear the engine section was like a large brick all business with little elegance,
“I did some research on the class, it took some digging and a few favours with other friends and family. The Hawking left Davion space en-route to Rigel and did not return, the Einstein and Averroes spent most of their time exploring the Chainlane Isles or the space to the North West of House Steiner’s holdings. The Einstein was reported lost in the Amaris Civil War and the Averroes may have departed with General Kerensky. “
“She is quite a find, and her condition?” He asked as the image changed to show what the ship currently looked like and some information that showed what the Marians wanted to do to her. The display shifted, reeling off the state of the Sagan as well as possible Marian plans for her use which made the man snort. “A WarShip? She is a pure research vessel to turn her into a combat capable craft…”
“Would be a waste of time and resources, yes I was able to get this point across to my hosts.” She agreed
“Ahh…” he said noting that she had called him here because she had a plan “so what is it you suggested?”
Her smile was bright and warm. “I know that Interstellar Expeditions has a need for vessels of this nature, to seek knowledge, to look for hidden secrets and learn from the lessons of the past. And fortune has placed such an instrument in our hands for this goal.” She noted Interstellar Expeditions would pay handsomely for the vessel.
“I sense a ‘but’.” The older man said a knowing look on his face.
“Perceptive as always brother, yes there is a price. The ship is handed over to Interstellar Expeditions, but in return Interstellar Expeditions will pay to bring the Aqua Vitae yard online again as well as help purchase what is required to refurbish the Hanse so she is more than just a mobile vainglory.” Cassandra said naming the only shipyards that served the Marian Hegemony and the Lola III-class Destroyer that was one of the last pieces of Clan Ice Hellion that served the nation the rest had been traded over the years for other equipment.
“The Marian’s seek to learn from us, to get a competent cadre of trained shipyard personnel. I have seen the Vitae yards; they are barely worthy of the title shipyard. “
“But we dare not refuse brother. We know that on trials the Endeavour’s were used to map parts of the Inner Sphere, and they could well have fully up to date and original star maps. Unfortunately, the ships computers are in such a poor state that the stored data is currently not available, but if they repair her and keep her for themselves, then problems could arise if it got into the wrong hands, the Clans for example, or the Star League. And they would sell such data to the highest bidder.” She point out the ship’s data banks could have information on them that had been hidden since the fall of the first Star League information that many had died to keep hidden.
“That almost sounded like a threat sister.”
“It is. Not to you of course, you know I would never threaten you, but what is on this ship could threaten many things. The ship still in deep space we cannot get anyone aboard.” She pointed out
“I assume you have done a cost rundown of what would be needed?”
“I have a data chip with all the information I have been able to gather as well as a cost breakdown. There are other benefits, the Marians and Interstellar Expeditions would be in our debt and both would likely also still rely on us for technical support.”
“So you see the Marians being a client?” He asked wondering if the small periphery state could fill their needs.
“The Caesar knows this is inevitable if we assist them, and he is open to supporting us and giving Interstellar Expeditions docking rights and permission to use Marian territory.” She said “I know the company will not be too happy to coming to a former pirate state but if we make assurances for safe travel they will deal with us.”
“What about resources? Must we provide those too?”
“No, the Marians plan on taking advantage of the chaos in other realms to obtain what they need. Interstellar Expeditions will provide the majority of the capital with the purchase of the Sagen.”
“With our guidance and advice?”
“With our guidance and advice of course.”
“I will of course need to speak with others but I believe that we can make this work. Marian space and the borders of it are in an interesting area for exploration. And it would be a disservice if the Sagan was used for such crass a role as simple warfare. No, we shall take her and her data and put them to good use.” He concluded following her thinking and in the process they would gain the support of the Marians and at least part of Interstellar Expeditions.
“And what of the Marian offer?”
“I will forward it to those with the power to accept, but I feel they will see things our way. We can also give the Marians a ‘shopping list’ so to speak, as well as a list of potential targets. If we can keep others off balance by using the Marians, then all the better.”
“Very true Brother, now will you be staying? I have quarters prepared.”
“It would be my pleasure Sister.”
Clan offensive
Algate, Candahar Prefecture
Pesht Military District
9th March 3107
With the Draconis Combine attempting to contain the Snow Raven assault and now the Snow Ravens counter attacking against the DCMS Clan Nova Cats forces had faced little opposition on the Draconis Combine’s furthest periphery border. saKhan Katrine Devalis wrapped the winter jacket around her as she stepped off the Outpost-class DropShip she had claimed as her command vessel. Elsewhere Nova Cats were claiming the systems of Slaithwaite, Brailsford and Chorley from poorly armed militia forces but here on Algate the defenders had been reinforced by the Eleventh District of Pesht Regulars Regiment a combined-arms regiment with two Battalions of BattleMechs and a combined infantry and armour Battalion. Adding in the militia defenders there would be at least four regiments of forces arrayed against hers on this world. “I am saKhan Katrine Devalis of the Nova Cat Clan I speak to the defenders of this today I bring two of Clan Nova Cat’s strongest Clusters what units will you use to defend this planet.” She asked trying to ignore the cold.
“We will defend this planet with everything we have.”
“Well bargained and done, fight and die well.” She said shutting off the communication system behind her two Nova Cat II OmniMechs and two Dragon Cat OmniMechs her own Deimos was still on board the DropShip waiting for her to return from the cold along with the vehicles, ProtoMechs and Battle Armour troopers of her command Trinary. Behind her more Nova Cat DropShips descended through the atmosphere on trails of fire bringing with them the rest of Upsilon Keshik and the Four Hundredth and Fiftieth Assault Cluster the battle for Algate had begun by the end of the week Nova Cat and Eleventh Pesht units were engaged across the planet the Nova Cats experience and technology showing over their DCMS counterparts as they advanced from settlement to settlement. By the end of March the planet was fully under Nova Cat control with the Eleventh Pesht a broken unit though gurella activity continued across the planet.
Raid
Chertan, Wolf Empire
17th March 3107
Under contract with the Star League Defence Force the Crescent Hawks dropped onto Chertan engaging the Wolves as soon as they dropped from the Leopard-class DropShip. The Cresent Hawks had only a single Mech Lance and two Land-Air-Mechs but they kept moving engaging the Clan garrison forces keeping them off balance. The Crescent Hawks objective was not to liberate the planet instead they fought to keep the Wolves on edge capturing or destroying supplies and support facities before withdrawing back off planet. From the salvage taken from Chertan the Crescent Hawks refit their Inner Sphere tech BattleMechs with Clan tech giving them a stronger punch.
Draconis Combine assault
Abagnar, Raven Alliance
Periphery
30th March 3107
DEEDLE-DEEDLE-DEEDLE! “Radar Lock! Radar Lock!” The ‘bitching betty’ of the Sai was irritatingly loud but then again she was supposed to be. A flick of a switch shut the alarm off but still the visual alert flashed in the corner of Gunsho Iason Tarugawa’s eye. Like the rest of his flight he was being painted by the Alliance defender’s air search radars as their assault force entered the atmosphere of Abagnar.
“Hotdog this is Wasabi Lead, picking up at least two stars worth of vehicles painting us with LIDAR, ECM is hot.”
“Roger that Wasabi, stand by to break.”
“Sir we’re getting Long March radar painting us!” The Long March was airborn search radar in use on Clan and Alliance fighters.
“Strange, they usually wait...”
“All elements this is Hotdog cover the droppers and prepare to engage the enemy!” The six Combine DropShips thundered through the air, a thick screen of fighters covering them even as the inevitable happened.
“Missiles coming up from Grid 10A B and D!” Miles away all of them could see the white plumes of the Arrow SAM’s clawing their way skyward but instead of turning they kept climbing higher and higher.
“More missiles coming up from Grid Delta!” Another pilot called out the bitching betty was on overtime now and her alerts became more strident as the first barrage of SAM’s finally tipped over and dived down on the formation, the new profile of attack giving them a far higher terminal velocity and far less time to react.
“All elements break now!”
“Break, break, break!” Betty said in her calm, nagging tone even as the Combine fighters scattered like a flock of birds the droppers of course had to hold, their AMS was already active and tracking but the initial volley of missiles was aiming for the fighters that were now slamming themselves across the sky as they sought to evade or confuse the seeker heads on the Arrows.
Most were successful but there was still a half dozen dirty fireballs and the odd scream over the radio as fighters were hit by the over-sized missiles causing the deaths of several pilots.
“They’re going for the escorts, have active ID on in bounds, reading Corax and Ammon’s!”
Even as the Combine fighters were dodging the missiles volleyed at them the Alliance pilots were coming up out of the ground clutter from being at such low altitude as they came up to engage the attackers. The sky was quickly filled with contrails from missiles and pulses of laser and particle light as the aerospace fighters twisted, dived and turned.
Flight Leader James O’Brian grunted as his G-suit swelled round his joints as the G-force of his turn shoved him back into his seat as he swung his Ammon-XR into a brutally tight turn that had the fighter’s frame groaning in protest. “Target locked!”
The Tatsu he’d been turning on came into view even as he ‘looked’ through the floor of his fighter, the advanced HUD letting him see clearly where he looked. The black and gold Combine assault sled was turning but she was too slow and he had the inside of her as she came about.
Two thick amber beams and a heavy heat surge told him that the lasers had fired even he pressed the trigger, one missed by less than a meter the other ripped across the fighters port wing and it spat sparks and flame as the laser cut through the heavy protection and hit something important. Bleeding smoke the Tatsu turned away.
“It is not that easy friend...”
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“Tell Chu-sa Tanaka he can break for orbit, have two fighters break off and escort her.” The holodisplay didn’t really do justice as the damaged Leopard class DropShip turned away. A volley of Arrow missiles had got past the AMS screen and three had slammed into the Leopards flank, smashing armour and starting a fire. With her bay doors damaged and the starboard landing gear little more than a memory there was no way for the aerodyne to land so she had to withdraw.
The Nagumo DropShip’s weapons were adding to the cannonade filling the skies around the Combine assault group as they thundered towards their target. The missiles had stopped falling but now the sky was starting to fill with black puffs as anti-aircraft guns opened fire. The Spaceport that was their primary target sat atop a mesa and dug in Neberu’s were starting their barrage as the surviving Alliance fighters withdrew at high speed and low altitude their job done.
“Sir our nose plating’s down to about 50%...”
“Range?”
“Ten more kilometres.”
“Have the fighters suppress those guns if they can!”
---
Outside the sky was thick with exploding flak rounds and directed cluster blasts as the Neberu’s hammered away on fully automatic, their commanders designating targets whilst outside loaders worked to feed clip after clip into the rapidly emptying ammo bins of the tanks. Then there was a cheer as one of the DropShips, a Triumph bucked the big aerodyne was bracketed by a stream of rounds as a whole Star concentrated on the big ship. With one engine belching smoke and flame the 8,600 ton craft rolled over gracefully, its nose plunging into the ground the DropShip consumed by the resulting explosion as the ship’s fuel and ammunition detonated killing the vessel’s crew and the passengers.
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“Sir! The flak is too heavy and we’re down too many units. This is double the defences we was told to expect!” A young officer called out as a Draconis Combine Excalibur-class DropShip was struck by dozens of cannon slugs and missiles.
“Sir we’re picking up more air search radars coming over the horizon!” Another crewmen called out as a second round of Snow Raven aerospace fighters charged into battle.
“Damn…okay I’m issuing the abort order, withdraw to high orbit and get us to the JumpShips!”
“Sir!!” Someone called out a final warning the Captain of the Edo’s Memory had enough time to look up and see two white streaks thundering towards the nose of his DropShip. The two missiles struck the front of the DropShip piercing the weakened armour before exploding detonating inside the craft. The front of the DropShip exploded outwards with the whole nose of the ship being ripped open by the munitions. The wreckage of the DropShip rained down over the countryside of Abagnar as the aerospace fighters and DropShips continued to fight and die over the landscape.
Clan Meeting, Hall of the Khans
Andrey, Tukkayid
Clan Space Inner Sphere
31st March 3107
“This tea is delightful but I am sure that you have not invited me over just to let me sample it quiaff?” Star Colonel Johannes Hall said as he put down his china cup. The Colonel was aide to the Dominion’s Loremaster when in residence on Tukkayid, he spoke for her in all matters that she could not attend, or be seen to attend.
“Aff my friend that is not why I have invited you, oh and it is actually a Terran blend, from the homeworld itself.”
“I will not ask how you got your hands on that, or got it past the Ebon Guard…”
“A Spheroid merchant actually, no smuggling involved although the price was extortionate enough to think that this man was of Diamond Shark stock.” Star Colonel Helen Siegel said as she put her own cup down, smiling at her Bear counterpart. The Dominion and Raven aides were meeting in one of the annexes to the Hall of the Khan’s, a room of dark woods, cool marble and leather furniture, a place to sit and talk shop in a more relaxed atmosphere the décor was too much for many Clansmen but this place needed some extra spent on it.
“I have come to give you something, intelligence reports from our Watch.”
“Oh?” For all of the work done by the other Clans the Snow Raven’s had one of the most efficient Watches in the Clans; whereas most were adequate the Ravens thanks to their love of intrigue and politicking had a large and expansive network of agents for internal and external security. “A report that would be shared… freely?” Hall asked surprised looking at the Raven officer.
“Of course, it is only a report, and this information would benefit you and the Dominion, it is of little use to the Raven Alliance.”
“Well then in the spirit of the friendship between the Raven Alliance and the Rasalhague Dominion I accept.” He said raising his glass of tea in salute to the Raven officer.
“Excellent, I will have the data transmitted to your offices so it can be properly reviewed, now let us enjoy our tea.”
---
Hours later in the Ghost Bear Hall the Loremaster David Gilmour, his aides and saKhan David Bekker stood looking over the data provided by the Ravens. “But Loremaster these reports do corroborate with our own, they show that the Combine is pulling forces back from the border region and they are leaving only garrison forces to defend their worlds.” Star Colonel Johannes Hall.
“Aff I see it and I understand why, with the Ravens and Cats both tearing into their far border they need the troops.”
“At present all it would take is a push and they could lose so much…” saKhan David Bekker mused looking over the data this was Gilmour’s meeting but the saKhan as the senior Ghost Bear officer on the world had invited himself to look over the data.
“And this report of SLDF forces en-route? They will be passing through the border region and they could link up with the Combines forces.” Johannes Hall noted the SLDF had mobilized a WarShip and ground forces to assist the Draconis Combine.
“Aff… and they will before heading to where the battles are raging.” Loremaster Gilmour noted with saKhan Bekker nodding his agreement. “Besides a single a Black Lion and her escort group are not a threat to our borders, nor are two additional units.”
“The Ravens are trying to get us to cross the border.” saKhan David Bekker noted looking at the saKhan and to the other officer. “Their offensive seems to have run out of steam and they are trying to consolidate their hold on the worlds they have claimed. The Combine still has greater troop strength than both forces arrayed against them, but if we crossed the border to strike at such soft targets then those forces would not reach the warzone as they would have to be diverted to attempt to contain our assault.”
“Aff, so what shall we do?” Johannes Hall asked knowing the answer
“Nothing” Gilmour decided
“Nothing” Bekker agreed “we do not need a war at present we continue to improve life throughout our nation and with resources being spent on improving the infrastructure of our worlds as well as yet more Dominion Terminals our JumpShip capacity at the moment is at a premium.” He said pausing allowing Gilmour to continue
“Aff we will continue to have trials with the other Clans, trials that we can control the scope of through biding numbers to agreeable numbers. The Khan we continue our training regimes and stay on top of any incursions into our territory. This will keep the Warrior’s happy and without a political mandate for an attack we cannot just cross the border, as tempting as it may be.”
“Not while Magnesson is Khan” Bekker noted quietly Loremaster Gilmour shot him a glance noting the frustration in the saKhan’s voice before speaking up.
“Whilst we are Warriors we have to obey our Government. Neg, we will not join the Ravens and Cats in their assault, we will watch, and we will do as we have always done. Defend ourselves with great and terrible anger if struck, but to turn on a foe that has turned their back to us, and lowered their weapon. This we shall not do.”
“Neg, we will deal with our problems in our own way.” Bekker agreed
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thanks for the promotion for my guy, never thought about that kind of post……
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thanks for the promotion for my guy, never thought about that kind of post……
Whuh? I just chose the name at random :S
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Whuh? I just chose the name at random :S
That was me O:-) I changed the Tukayyid scene adding the saKhan
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Ahhh! It becomes clear :) Sneaky Dragon Cat.
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Very interesting last couple of updates. Not surprised the Ravens attempted to get the Bears involved in the attack on the Combine.
Also something I'm starting to really take note of, the Nova Cat's new territory north of the Raven Alliance seems like it's getting particularly large, governance of the area could become something of an issue primarily due to a combination of it's size and distance from the Den (a single world/outpost is one thing, a chunk of territory quite another). I can see a number of interesting options that could happen in the area:
1. Revolt, the distance and possible lack of direct involvement in governance could be an issue. Probably not likely, the Nova Cats in this universe are generally pretty good in how they treat their civilian populations.
2. An ambitious or frustrated/disgruntled Galaxy Commander seceding from the Nova Cats. The distances and territory involved suggest that there will need to be at least one mixed first and second line galaxy or even a full front line and second line pair of galaxies (1 mixed galaxy vs. 1 front line and 1 second line). There's two ways of going about this, depending very heavily on how much resources the Cats are willing to put into the area. It could be considered a backwater posting, or a chance to show the worth of a Galaxy Commander (and thereby setting him/her up for possible saKhan-ship). Both types of commanders, depending on how farsighted they are, could consider a successionary move to be reasonable.
3. Ceding the area to the control of the Ravens, Foxes, or another clan who are either closer to the area or wouldn't be averse to considering it an option to move the entire clan to the area. Of these, the Fox option is probably the strongest, the Ravens don't and likely won't have the resources to properly defend the area for quite some time - if Vir decided to follow through on his promise to reinvigorate the clan, it's still going to be another 10 or 15 years before the ground forces can grow enough to properly defend the area. The Foxes on the other hand, are already set up to do semi-independent territory management, and have the additional benefit of being very likely to truly build up the area into an industrial center.
4. The Ravens and Cats merge. This could be done through an official absorption (if the Falcons manage to "harvest" a couple of clusters, the Ravens could be ripe for absorption via the clan council) or a virtual one (council doesn't approve, but the Cats see a benefit in taking the action anyway) and finally it could be a political one (if the Ravens take enough damage, they might consider becoming a protectorate of the Cats, merely to maintain some level of existence - it also happens to be one of the possible interpreted outcomes of the vision). I like this option, as it puts another large and powerful power into existence, and on the border of the Fed Suns (who I think are getting a bit too big and safe, at the moment).
5. It could simply remain a province of the Nova Cats without much further notice. Boring, but entirely possible, and something that could very well happen.
Anyway, just my thoughts, keep up the good work guys. O0
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5. It could simply remain a province of the Nova Cats without much further notice. Boring, but entirely possible, and something that could very well happen.
Can't have that
Nice analysis Vition2 O0
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Wait, Merge of Cats and the Ravens? Are they going be called the Snow Griffins?
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Wait, Merge of Cats and the Ravens? Are they going be called the Snow Griffins?
Hehe, I was thinking Snow Cats, Nova Raven's doesn't have the same ring to it. But something like Spectral Griffons (or Gryphons) would be fun too. ;D
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I won't outright answer to what is happening to the Nova Cat Occupation Zone but it will be one of, or a combination of, the options Vition2 outlined
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What A Tease!!!!
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Dragon Cat is the master of the 100000000000000000000 veil dance. :p I'm glad and honoured I can just add my lil contribution to this ongoing and AMAZING timeline.
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Like this a lot keep on going.
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No plans to stop I enjoy writing this timeline and as long as people enjoy it well why should it end
Now a bit more from me and some more from the Fire Mandrills from James Tanaga
As always feel free to comment, speculate and ask questions. I'll try to answer without giving away what's coming up.
Trial of Possession
Vantaa, Hell’s Horses Territory
Clan Occupation Zone
2nd April 3107
For the first time since taking over Clan Wolf’s territory Clan Coyote move on five systems bordering their territory. In the early hours of the 2nd April Coyote forces enter the Vantaa and Ridderkerk systems declaring Trials of Possession. Both the Horses and Coyotes fight within the rules of Zellbrigen with Ridderkerk falling to the Coyotes while the Horses continue to hold Vantaa.
Several hours later Coyote forces arrive in the Hohenhems, Kufstein and Kandis systems of the Rasalhague Dominion declaring further Trials of Possession over the Hohenhems and Kufstein systems and over a production run of new BattleMechs in the Kandis system. The Bears successfully hold onto Kufstein system while Hohenhems is taken by the Coyotes. In the Kandis system the Coyote and Horses forces fight each other to a draw the Bears agree to transfer half of the production run to the Coyotes.
Planetary Raid
Milos, Kittery Prefecture
Star League Protectorate
12th April 3107
With their main defensive unit reassigned to the Draconis Combine border Milos is subjected to a heavy raid by a double battalion of BattleMechs and vehicles supported by infantry. The raiders cause damage to several facilities on the planet before the First Milos Planetary Guard unit rally to turn back their enemy.
Two days following the attack on Milos Protector-General Devlin Stone stood in front of a press conference facing the reporters on Kittery. For someone of his rank Stone was a young man with dark brown hair and piercing eyes. “Ladies and Gentlemen I would like to confirm that unknown raiding forces assaulted Milos and damaged several industrial targets south of the planetary capital forty-two citizens of Milos were killed in the attack.” He said announcing the causalties on the planet “the Milos Planetary Guard contained the raiders before they could cause further damage and drove them into retreat. We currently do not know the origin of the raiders.” He said the reporters suddenly began asking a dozen questions all at the same time before Stone raised his hands to quieten the reporters “I know you have questions.” He said “the Second Kittery Regimental Brigade who were based on Milos have successfully landed on and liberated Enif from Clan Snow Raven along with the Northwind Renegades Brigade and the SLS Invincible. During the battle for the system the Snow Raven WarShip Valdore was destroyed by the SLS Invincible and its escorts.” He announced the reporters began asking a dozen more questions this time Stone point to one of the reporters a young woman with highlighted brown/blonde hair wearing a blue suit.
“Protector-General Stone, Kimberly Grissom Milos Gazette, while we all agree we should congratulate the Second Kittery and the Renegades on their victory do you blame Commanding-General Focht reassigning Milos’ primary defenders and not assigning additional support to the Planetary Guard?”
“I do not” Stone said looking at the young woman who shifted in her chair slightly under his gaze “the Milos Planetary Guard have my full support and I would challenge any unit to react quicker than they did. The Star League Defence Force wears many hats in its responsibility to defend the Star League Protectorate, the Kittery Prefecture and the nation states of the Star League. To facilitate this we will be forming the Fifth Kittery Regimental Brigade over the next two years is formation will enhance the defences of the Prefecture and of other Star League holdings.” He said adding to more questions towards Stone many regarding the Regiment’s “name” if it would follow the other units that had been formed in the Prefecture. “For now the unit has no name I welcome the input of the people of the Prefecture to submit names for consideration. I have also been authorized by Commanding-General Victor Focht that a new Light Horse Division will be formed with the Eridani Light Horse forming the core of this new Division and each of their Regiments expanded to a full Brigade with General Ralph Cumberland, of the Eridani, taking command of the Division.” He said breaking the news that the Star League Defence Force was growing in size and strength despite the setbacks of today.
Failure, Battleline
Addicks, Addicks PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
15th April 3107
Off to the right of the Green Marauder the lances Phoenix Hawk exploded in a fireball under the concentrated fire by the Proserpina Draconis March Militia. The Bounty Hunter and his team had been called in to eliminate a suspected pirate band “The 7” who was hiding on the planet. The initial part of the operation had gone well but now things were falling to pieces the militia were supposed to be on the other side of the planet but instead they were all over his unit and “7” were falling back out of range. “Ranya, Mark, Gunther fall back the operation is scrubbed” the Bounty Hunter commanded “Kafka check our rear area we need a clear path to fall back through. Sam lay down some heat.”
“We are retreating?” The female VTOL pilot asked angrily her aircraft turning towards their rear area.
“Yes we are not here to take on the whole militia” he said engaging the incoming enemies with his Marauder’s weapons alongside him Gunther Dudsen, Ranya and Mark continued to fire as they fell back. Over their position Sam continuously fired Arrow IV artillery missiles over their position. “Continue the retreat” he commanded backtracking his BattleMech taking out an enemy Sentinel but they couldn’t continue to get lucky Mark’s Shadow Hawk took a massive amount of damage from an LRM volley and fell to one knee. Gunther Dunsen stepped forward covering the fallen Shadow Hawk. “Gunther retreat I will cover” the Bounty Hunter said drilling down through an enemy Enforcer BattleMech.
“No I will kill these Fedrats it is time.” He said his thick Germanic accent coming through clearly over the communications as the ninety ton modified Mauler stepped forwards firing its both of his BattleMech’s hyper velocity autocannons and missile launchers as he charged forwards. Gunther Dunsen was a serial killer he made his money by hunting down people and killing them now he did the same with a BattleMech and he was very good at the job. As he stepped forwards a series of missile and autocannon hits struck Mark’s downed Shadow Hawk decapitating the kneeling BattleMech.
“This won’t happen again” the Bounty Hunter promised as he watched the Mauler charge towards its enemies firing constantly as it closed on the Addicks Militia units. “Continue retreat” he said pulling back “Sam switch to mines aim for the gaps in our fields.” He commanded during their approach on the pirates position they had laid some mines as a fall back encase something went wrong.
“We need to do something about this it is costing us money.” Kafka said diving her VTOL over the militia lines opening fire with the craft’s rotary autocannon damaging several vehicles.
“We will reveal a truth or two the record will be set” the Bounty Hunter promised he knew why the AFFS were hunting them down he ha pulled the trigger but what the AFFS didn’t know was that the Bounty Hunter had kept the information that set the gun up. Several hours later the Bounty Hunter and the remains of his team escaped onto their DropShip escaping the planet and then the system setting a course for Robinson.
RCDS Snarling Mandrill (Overlord C-class DropShip)
Uninhabited Periphery System
18th April 3107
Khan Natasha Faraday held herself on the ceiling of the RCDS Snarling Mandrill cargo bay as she watched her fellow Clansmen enjoy a game of microgravity dodge ball. She was sweating and wore only a tank top and light shorts, with a red armband on her right arm. She was but one of eight Mandrills, Warrior and otherwise, that were already knocked out of the round.
She smiled, as she watched Brienne, President Damien Redburn’s daughter, catching a ball thrown her way before throwing it into another incoming ball, ricocheting the two away from her. The game was a popular training and exercise tool among the Mandrills when travelling in space, with both Warriors and non-Warriors taking part in it. The fact it was fun didn’t hurt either. She had initially resisted Brienne’s involvement in this mission but Damien Redburn had said it was important for her to learn how to work with the Mandrills and vice versa. So far he couldn’t argue with what she had seen.
Natasha cocked an eyebrow as Brienne moved her body to kick an incoming ball, sending it flying into an Elemental’s head. Using her momentum, she grabbed a teammate out of the way of another ball and then swung him around her before letting him go, quickly throwing him past the last two defenders and the designated finishing line. Impressive she thought watching the game come to an end.
A whistle blew. “Red team wins this round,” yelled out the aerospace Scientist that was acting as one of the referees. Pushing herself forward, she met Brienne half-way, softly colliding with her.
“You have good spatial awareness and teamwork skills,” she remarked to the President’s daughter as the younger woman finally caught her breath, causing her to blush at the praise.
“Thanks, my Khan” the other woman answered back taking in the praise from other members of her team Natasha realized that while Brienne was taking in her teams praise the two’s eyes met often and for extended periods.
‘Maybe she wants to couple,’ Natasha thought to herself it was normal for Clan warriors to seek companionship with other warriors whether they were male or female. Before Natasha could query the younger woman, she heard the comlink on her codex spring to life, a short, rapid series of bleeps alerting her she was needed at her convenience.
Turning to the Aerospace phenotype female Technician next to her, she caught the smaller woman’s attention. “Sue, let everyone know I am needed” she commanded “and continue having fun, quiaff?”
“Aff, Khan,” the Technician responded as she grabbed, then hurled, Natasha in the direction of the door. As she flew through the nearly empty cargo bay, Natasha swung her body around and noticed Brienne looking at her. As their eyes met Natasha bowed her head intentionally at Brienne causing the younger woman to blush even more.
Turning around, she allowed her momentum to carry her all the way to the bay door, where four more Mandrills and a Collection Freeborn sat, playing a card game. She shook her head as the taller of the two Elementals reached out his hand and caught her before setting her down, all while continuing the card game. It confirmed her thoughts they were using magnetic strips to hold the chairs and table, as well as cards and chips, from floating away. The downtime her people were currently enjoying would not last; soon they would have a fight on their hands.
Only after she left the bay did she answer her comlink “Khan Faraday here.”
“Khan, Star Colonel Lester Jannik of our Mandrill Honor Guard Cluster on Tukayyid requests an HPG meeting with you at your earliest convenience, though stressed it to be sooner rather than later,” the voice of a female Mandrill reported over Natasha’s comlink. “Our HPG is currently active” she reported letting Natasha know that she could reply now if she wished.
“Good,” Natasha answered back. “Shift the HPG conference to terminal K-31 outside Cargo Bay 4, quiaff?”
“Aff, Khan,” she other Mandrill replied over the comlink as Natasha turned to the holo-terminal and flicked it on.
A few seconds later, she was met with the image of the silver-haired Star Colonel. “Khan, a situation between our Clan and Clan Jade Falcon has just flared up here on Tukayyid.”
“What is the situation with the chickens?” she queried the solahma warrior.
The older man sighed. “During the bidding process, Star Captain Jorge Fire Mandrill bid his binary supernova against two stars of Grand Summoners and an Elemental star.”
Natasha nodded. “I sent him ahead for that reason Star Colonel. What is the problem?” she demanded from the older man surely he was not complaining about her Clan’s move.
“This,” the solahma Warrior answered before a new box on Natasha’s screen popped up and the video began to play.
It only lasted for twenty-eight seconds, but it was more than enough. “Seems the Chickens believe our Kirghiz-G’s are OmniFighters, quiaff?” She said looking at the Falcon bid they had bid two stars of Grand Summoners and a Battle Armour star they would be outweighed and easily beaten by the Mandrill’s assault units she didn’t care how good the new Falcon Summoner was. To give the Mandrill’s an easy victory would diminish their achievement.
“Aff, Khan,” Lester answered her. “I plan to send this video to Loremaster Thomas Ward. With your permission of course,” the older warrior added ferally. “Would be a shame for the Falcons to lose their new OmniMechs due to misunderstanding the bid, quiaff?”
“Aff allow them to revise their bid” she said still confident of her Clan’s victory over the Falcons she knew that the forces she had sent to Tukayyid could outfight anything the Falcons had there and she wanted it to be convincing for her Mandrills. “The fleet will arrive at Tukayyid in three weeks time. We are still recharging our batteries in the Periphery.” She informed the other Warrior. “I expect the chickens to be crying when we arrive, quiaff?” she challenged the man.
“Aff,” was the man’s simple reply. Both shared feral smiles before the HPG connection was disconnected.
“To be a fly on the wall when this goes down in the Grand Council chambers,” she spoke out loud to the empty hallway.
Planetary Zoo
Algate, Qandahar Prefecture
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
28th April 3107
The fighting on Algate had gone predictably, short and brutal, the Nova Cat units on the planet proving simply too much for the militia and the Eleventh Pesht Regulars. With no transport to escape off the planet the superior tech and experience of the Nova Cats resulted in the destruction of the remaining warriors of the Draconis Combine defenders. With the planet secured saKhan Katrine Devalis sought out the civilian leader of Algate with her Elementals reporting securing him at the planetary zoo of all places. Moving through the visitor enclosures the saKhan found Governor Martin Balios standing observing the animals. Katrine paid no attention instead turned on the Governor “I am saKhan Katrine Devalis of Clan Nova Cat your world is now ours” Katrine said but the Governor did not look at her “you will submit your authority to my Clan and answer to my warriors. You will help us keep the population under control.”
“Do you know why I am here?” He asked still looking out into the enclosure. “These animals are a source of strength for my people.” He said “your Clans take great strength from your totem animals yes?” He asked
“Aff we do” Katrine said deciding to look at the animals seeing several large cats with growths mid-way along is back. “What are they?” She asked watching as one of the cats began to climb a tree another opened the growths stretching out a pair of large wings. Immediately Katrine’s vision flashed into her mind watching as the cat continued to stretch while the one that had been climbing jumped from the tree taking to the air on its wings.
“They were developed during the Succession Wars as a hunter for local serpents. The Governor at the time was infatuated with a mythical creature that was the mount of the ancient Gods. He started with a Terran Leopard and enlarged it before crossing its genes with that of the Terran Eagle creating what is officially known as the Leopard Eagle.” He said as another animal launched itself into the air gliding over them. “Unofficially our people have grown used to calling them the Gryphons.”
“They hobbled the Leopard with the wings she cannot on her own.” Katrine Devalis said still watching the animals.
“The destruction of the Succession Wars cut off the supplies and money for supporting the research work. They were forced to release them as they were one hundred Leopard Eagles released into the wild against hundreds of serpents who had terrorized the people of this planet.” He said telling the history of the animal “within fifty years the serpents numbers were controlled and reduced by the cats they became a symbol of strength, unity and perseverance for our people.” He explained “we do not fear your Nova Cats, saKhan Devalis, you have overcome the Dragon treat our people well, and you will have our respect and our cooperation.” He promised the saKhan as she once again looked at the Leopard Eagles, the Gryphons, wondering if they were what her vision had for told. Until now she had believed the Nova Cat absorption of Clan Snow Raven was her vision realized but now perhaps there was another option.
Beyond Algate DCMS forces launch follow up attacks on Abagnar, Hongor, Land’s End, Pentrine X and Vega Lianna shattering two clusters of Snow Raven forces while losing two full Regimental Teams themselves in each case the DCMS find the Raven WarShips completely missing. Unlike the previous attack on Abagner this time the Draconis Combine liberation forces are successful in driving off the Raven defenders. Elsewhere the reason behind the Snow Raven forces folding in front of the DCMS becomes apparent as the Ravens land forces on Bad News and Brasha with full WarShip support tightening the noose around the units that had pushed into the Draconis Combine.
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More the wheels turn. This such epic tail.
So the Nova Cats maybe changing their totem animal or they splitting into separate clans? Sounds like the former though. How she going convince everyone that way of the Nova Cat is with the birds?
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It seems that the Ravens are basically doing an Operation Uranus on the DCMS. Encircle their forces and squeeze. If the DCMS forces scatter and run then they risk jumping alone into systems with WarShips/assault droppers in them. And if they mass and try to break out the Ravens can mass and do the same and they have a numerical advantage.
Its very...Raven. Trade space, lives and worlds to draw the combine in and then close the door behind them.
This possible Clan Griffon is a VERY interesting development, if the saKhan takes the forces loyal to her and who have won their worlds in this region the Nova Cats could probably write them off and hopefully not be too angry about it. But the big thing is that its a Clan thats formed from another, most Clans don't come into existance just because a few units go "you know what, we're now Clan Gorilla in a Clown Car" and the other Clans then accept this.
To do their own thing it would be quite a cultural shift.
Great to see the Madrils doing well as well :)
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I have a plan...
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I have a plan...
... and that's what scares some of us.
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I have a plan...
We'll start all over aGAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIIIIIIIIIN!!!
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... and that's what scares some of us.
Not sure if I'm happy with that or not :D but you all keep coming back for more so I must be doing something right.
We'll start all over aGAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIIIIIIIIIN!!!
Hell no!! This timeline has survived one forum crash I really really don't want to have to repost it all again!! - Though I probably would...
This has not happened before and will not be happening again
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It was actually a War of the Worlds reference (the artilleryman's song :p), I don't want you to restart this TL. Its superb!
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And here I thought it was a Battlestar Galactica reference.
Interesting movement in the Draconis Combine. Great update!
And thanks Marauder. :)
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I have a plan...
Release the Nukes, Bio and Chemical agents that the WOB played with here in te main timeline
Burn it all down
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I have a plan...
[watch]
TT
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I have a plan...
Is it as cunning as a fox what used to be Professor of Cunning at Oxford University, but has moved on and is now working for the U.N. at the High Commission of International Cunning Planning?
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Is it as cunning as a fox what used to be Professor of Cunning at Oxford University, but has moved on and is now working for the U.N. at the High Commission of International Cunning Planning?
If it works yes
My thanks to James Tanaga for the start of the Mandrill Bear scene although it's changed a little since the original
Royal Birth, Royal Argyle Hospital
Argyle, New Avalon Operating Area
Crucis March, Federated Suns
2nd May 3107
In the heart of the Federated Suns Duke Fredrick Davion the younger brother of the First Prince becomes a father for the third time as his third daughter is born on Argyle. Duke Fredrick and his wife Nikki name the child Cresta. A week later on 9th May the hospital is the site of another birth into the Davion family with Julian Davion, grandson of the late Jackson Davion, is born bringing much publicity to the sleepy vacation world of Argyle.
Command Deck, LCS Iron Fist (Mjolnir-class Battle-cruiser)
Nadir Point, Tharkad System
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
12th May 3107
Just off the Nadir Point to the Tharkad system the LCS Iron First and her sister ship the LCS Typhoon sat waiting using virtually no thrust. On board the ship Archon Jessica Steiner expertly moved through the micro-gravity entering the Iron Fist’s Command Centre. “What is our status Admiral?” She asked looking at the vessel’s commander Admiral Mateusz Ziółko.
“We are holding position as commanded Archon. Our sensors have detected three large radiation surges at the Nadir Point our visitors are arriving.”
“How long?” Jessica asked looking over the readouts in the command centre using her trained eye.
“Any moment” the ship’s commander said as the first one point eight million tonne WarShip entered the system the Archon looked at the Admiral “right now mam.” He deadpanned as the ship lit its engines and moved out of position. “Warbook can’t identify what we can identify she’s a nasty customer.” He said looking over the sensor data opposite the Mjolnir-class Battle-cruiser the vessel wearing the insignia of the Federated Suns moved gracefully away from the Nadir Point. “FSS Indefatigable…”
“I did not realize that the Federated Suns would be taking their own ship with them.” Archon Jessica Steiner said as a second vessel of the same class entered the system this one painted in the colours of the Lyran Commonwealth.
“Tireless” he said “not exactly a name we would give one of our vessels.” He said as the ship began to move clear off point while a third ship, another vessel painted in Lyran colours, identifying as the Diligence.
“We can rename her” the Archon said “I was thinking the LCS Peter Steiner-Davion” she said naming the vessel for her late father. The Admiral looked at the Archon and nodded his agreement.
“Communication from the Tireless, sir, a Duchess Sarah Davion on board the vessel is awaiting the Archon’s presence for handover of the vessel.” The communication’s officer reported.
“I will be on board presently, Admiral have our crews shuttled over to both vessels we will take over from the Federated Suns naval personnel.” She directed
Nearly an hour later the Archon was moving through another vessel which now felt quite crowded as the AFFS and LCAF Naval personnel transferred command of the vessel. In the command centre the Archon met with Duchess Sarah Davion, younger sister of First Prince Burton Davion, Jessica Steiner knew little about the woman only that she was not a warrior instead she served in the Federated Suns government. As she approached Jessica looked at the woman she was in her thirties and despite having no martial history was a powerful and elegant looking woman if she were Lyran the aura she had could have been mistaken for that of Archon Katrine Steiner. “Duchess Davion I did not realize the First Prince had dispatched a member of his family to escort our new Battleships, or that your own vessel would be accompanying you.”
“Operational requirement the FSS Indefatigable is carrying four Monarch type DropShips together with the Indefatigable we will be able to transfer the crews home without issue. I have also been authorized to negotiate with you over the transfer of control of the Arondight type DropShips docked to your two Battleships as both WarShips carry the Naval variant of the C3 computer the First Prince believed the Lyran Commonwealth could use DropShips that can be used with this system.
“We appreciate the offer but as you are already carrying DropShips exactly how will you get them home if I do not purchase?”
“The Fifth Battle Group will carry the DropShips as our time supplying naval forces to guard your border is coming to an end.” Duchess Sarah Davion explained Jessica had dreaded today.
“The peace with the Falcons will soon end we could use your naval units.”
“Yes and the Federated Suns also needs its sons and daughters home. You have had time to shore up your defences and with the Tireless…” She said before the Archon spoke up.
“Peter Steiner-Davion” Jessica corrected the Davion noblewoman who smiled at hearing the name of her uncle.
“The Peter Steiner-Davion and Diligence will give you a starting block to produce further vessels of her class. Your engineers and our own brought the class to life the First Prince has authorized me to release all data concerning the class and the SLDF’s WarShip grade Anti-Missile System to your use.” She explained
“How does the Star League feel about this?”
“It was something that needed to be done.” Sarah Davion explained the technology was now being shared with the other member states as well as the SLDF attempted to make the system a staple of future WarShip design allowing the capital ships of the Inner Sphere to coordinate their defences.
“Indeed it was and they are a welcome addition to our naval forces.” Archon Jessica Steiner said “you must stay with us on Tharkad to negotiate over the DropShips.” She suggested
“I have always desired to see the Triad” Sarah admitted “my son and husband are onboard the FSS Indefatigable if they are also invited then I accept.”
“Of course they are” Jessica said smiling “our families will always be linked by blood our fathers tried to keep our links alive despite the end of the Federated Commonwealth.” She explained “I do not believe that these are links that we should allow to die in our generation.”
“I agree and so does my brother” Duchess Sarah Davion agreed. Over the next three weeks Duchess Sarah Davion and her family were treated as honoured guests on Tharkad during this time the trade of the eight DropShips on the two WarShips was completed between the two nations. Then with their visit complete the family on board the FSS Indefatigable left the Tharkad system heading for the Jade Falcon border and the Fifth Battle Group including the three heavily damaged vessels of the task force. It would take the better part of six months but the vessels would rendezvous with the other AFFS WarShips on the Clan Wolf border before returning to the Federated Suns in early 3108.
Khan’s meeting, Rasalhague Dominion Hall
Andrey, Tukayyid
Clan Territory Inner Sphere
22nd May 3107
Natasha Faraday of the Fire Mandrills moved her pawn forward on the board, threatening Ragnar’s knight. She nodded as Ragnar was forced to move the knight back inside his territory and followed through by moving another pawn to cover the first. Though the game was purely recreational, both Khans were playing competitively.
“You likely made an enemy of the Falcons for the rest of your days last night, you know?” the Ghost Bear Khan and military leader of the Rasalhague Dominion queried her quietly.
“You are trying to distract me,” she accused him, causing the far older man to chuckle. “Besides, the chickens should have read the fine print we have always been enemies one way or another.”
“Oh I know,” the older man acknowledged as he moved his bishop to threaten Natasha’s rook, forcing her to move a pawn forward, less the rook be taken. In response, the aging Ghost Bear took an undefended pawn on the other side of the board, threatening her own knight.
“Not many have managed to force them to initiate a brawl on their own and breaking zellbrigen,” he responded a few moments later. “And it was all in front of Ebon Guard members. I must say it was quite artistically done.” Minutes passed as both continued the game. Natasha could see she had lost the chess game, but she continued on, for another game between the two Khans continued.
“You wish for your forces safe passage through the Rasalhague Dominion, quiaff?” he asked as he took a bishop.
Natasha nodded as she looked across the board. “Aff, our intelligence predicts now is the best time for you and the Dominion to strike at the Dragons, what with the Cats and Ravens heading deeper into the Dragon’s territory you could make significant headway on your border.” She moved her knight.
“Perhaps,” he conceded to her. “Yet, that would mean weakening my Clan. You understand why I am loath to do so, quiaff?” He brought his queen to the centre of the board, finally gaining firm control over the centre, typical Bear fashion moving its most powerful pieces into positions of control and prominence.
“Aff,” she acknowledged. “Your relationship with the Horses never allows for a peaceful border and they are smarting after being driven off by the Lyrans. Should you attack, they and the Coyotes would take advantage of you. The latter like the jackals they are.”
The Ghost Bear nodded to her. “They are survivors, just as your own Clan is Khan; the Coyotes are finally showing themselves to still be a Clan capable of moving on its own. Their recent trials have proven that they are ready for heavier combat.” He said the recent Coyote victories had won them Ridderkerk from the Hell’s Horses and Hohenhems from his own Dominion. The Dominion counter attacks had won his Clan Kobe, Kranston and Hyperion while two further attacks had failed to gain further territory.
“You need not remind me, Khan Magnusson,” she bit out. “But at least my Clan survived on its own and has made its own territorial moves.”
“Yet you are hobbled by the Collection you now serve and the Coyotes are not,” he spoke openly to her as she moved a rook deep into his territory, out of the way of Ragnar’s queen.
“Careful, Khan,” Natasha warned him lightly. “Those are fighting words.”
“You mean if I was any other Khan, quiaff?” he joked back, causing her to crack a smile. It faded a moment later as the Ghost Bear Khan moved his knight, checkmating Natasha’s king and ending the game.
She sighed. “I prefer Go myself,” Natasha muttered as she waved a hand to the board.
The older Clan Warrior nodded to her. “A sound strategic game,” he volunteered.
Natasha nodded to the older Warrior’s answer. “What is your price for safe passage through your territory?” she asked directly after a moment of silence between the two.
The other Khan rested his chin in his hand as he thought. “How long do you predict to be fighting the Draconis Combine? I doubt you are attempting to establish an occupation zone here on my border, quineg?”
Natasha shook her head. “Neg, merely a resources raid the likes of which has not yet been seen in the Inner Sphere, we have identified a target in the Draconis Combine and we wish to exploit it.”
“Depends on the target and what you are grabbing?” the aging Freeborn Khan of the Rasalhague Dominion responded after a moment.
“The JumpShip repair yards at Schuyler,” she answered back. "Likely to be done within three months but will settle for six."
Ragnar Magnusson was taken aback. “The JumpShip yards why they are incapable of construction?” he queried her in shock, causing Natasha to sit back and nod.
“We have our reasons…” She teased not wishing to give too much away.
“You are certainly daring, Khan Faraday,” he remarked a moment later. “Explains why your two new WarShips are here, though,” he acknowledged. “What did you have to trade for the Hakaze, if I may ask?”
“The Collection surrendered two badly damaged warships to Khan Clarke’s Khanate in return for immediate yard time in the Chainelane Isles for the RCS Resolute and the immediate turnover of the RCS Firebrand to my Clan,” she informed him.
Ragnar Magnusson nodded at her answer. “The production specs for your new OmniFghters and Kirghiz-G OmniMech, as well as complete salvage rights would be a start,” the Ghost Bear Khan informed her a long moment later. “No games Khan Faraday you cannot play this as if your troops are my own. If you were to there would be grave consequences.”
She winced, as the Ghost Bear Khan continued “Aff, Khan Magnesson my Mandrills will fight as Mandrills we will take our objective from the Combine and withdraw in good order you have my word.”
HPG Transmission, Imperial Palace
New Samarkand, Tabayama Prefecture
Midway Military District, Draconis Combine
25th May 3107
Seventy-six year old Warlord Minoru Kurita looked at the Tri-vid image being transmitted by the Khan of the Snow Raven Clan Vir Sukhanov stared back at him the younger Khan was apparently on board a WarShip in the contested Pondicherry system “Khan Sukhanov you have already lost two WarShips in the Tabayama system and almost six clusters attempting to take Pondicherry and Tabayama perhaps it is time that the Ravens gave up on their quest to battle the Dragon?”
“Your Second Genyosha has been destroyed and the First Sword of Light will soon follow them. My forces are a single jump from the planet that you are standing on. I could decapitate your nation with one strike.” He said taunting the older man.
“I could do the same to you” Minoru stated “my forces could strike at Dante causing you equal or greater damage.” He knew the importance of Dante to the Snow Raven Clan and what was based there recent successes on Brasha, Bad News and Morthac had not only bought their forces some much needed breathing room but also threatened the Snow Raven capital.
“Perhaps that is a risk I am willing to take.”
“Perhaps it is but is it a risk you Clan can survive? You were sucked into this war by the Nova Cats who had not hit a single new target in nearly three weeks. Why is it your Clan is doing all the heavy lifting of this conflict?” Minoru challenged the younger man
“The Nova Cats have their own objectives as does my Clan” he answered carefully “what is the point to this call Warlord?” Khan Sukhanov asked sounding bored
“With respect I propose an end to this conflict Khan Sukhanov” Minoru said “if not then two things are likely to happen next in our conflict. You will invade New Samarkand and likely cripple this world’s shipyards and production, you may even kill me, but you will be driven off. I will call in resources from across the Draconis Combine to be used against you. At the same time I will command my military to strike at Dante and flatten your facilities there with orbital bombardment if I need to but I promise you Khan Sukhanov your Clan will be broken.”
“You believe you can threaten your way out of this conflict!” He snapped angrily
“No, I believe I can make you see reason Khan Sukhanov, I believe I can make you see that for this conflict to continue will see the Draconis Combine crippled and the Snow Ravens dead and that is something that neither of us desires.” He said appealing to the man’s sense of reason he would actually love to see the Snow Raven and every other Clan dead but not at the expense of the Draconis Combine. “I propose that we each retain the worlds that have changed hands in this conflict and the warriors captured by both sides are released from their bonds.” He suggested the Draconis Combine had more than two clusters of warriors interned in the Draconis Combine while the Snow Ravens had shattered several regiments and were currently still fighting with the Sword of Light on Pondicherry. The Draconis Combine could do with those soldiers back. There was a lengthy pause as neither leader spoke thinking over their next move.
“We live to fight another day.” Sukhanov said speaking the words “I agree Warlord” he said finally “I will allow your warriors to leave the systems we have taken and we are retaining this contested system.” He said making it clear to the Warlord what the price was for their peace agreement.
“And we will be retaining those around Dante.” Kurita said maintaining his threat against the Ravens.
“They were won in battle Warlord your people fought well.” Sukhanov finally said shutting off the communications grid. Over the next several weeks the Draconis Combine and Snow Ravens exchanged the warriors captured on either side and settled into a more secure border.
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Another interesting chapter, Dragon Cat. Am i reading this wrong or does Archon Jessica Steiner is bit...ego? She seems not as close to the Davions. I hope Sarah watches here back. Privately renaming the Indefatigable to the Peter Steiner-Davion is kinda annoying to me. Wasn't there another ship name for him recently? Maybe i grown to hate all the warships named after people. #P One thing i think it won't make difference is that renaming a ship once launch is bad luck. Bad fate in store for Peter? >:D
Interesting moves by the Ravens and the Dragon. I'm surprised they didn't try to push the war further. The aftermath will be interesting, given that Clan Mandrill will jump and do a raid against the Combine's Warship Yards, which may be seen as act of war by the Ravens if they don't identify them quickly enough.
Intriguing update, Dragon Cat!!
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Interesting moves by the Ravens and the Dragon. I'm surprised they didn't try to push the war further. The aftermath will be interesting, given that Clan Mandrill will jump and do a raid against the Combine's Warship Yards, which may be seen as act of war by the Ravens if they don't identify them quickly enough.
Sounds like the Mandrills will be hitting from Dominion space, on the other side of the Combine, so I doubt that they'll be mistaken for Ravens.
Unless they repaint their Mech's and change their transponder codes... 8)
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Interesting moves by the Ravens and the Dragon. I'm surprised they didn't try to push the war further. The aftermath will be interesting, given that Clan Mandrill will jump and do a raid against the Combine's Warship Yards, which may be seen as act of war by the Ravens if they don't identify them quickly enough.
The loss of 6 Raven clusters is a significant portion of the Raven Touman, even including the Alliance forces. They don't have the ground forces to continue a serious campaign - the Dragon has learned, bring overwhelming force to bare or things won't go well against the clans.
As for the yards at Schuyler, they are inoperable Jumpship yards, not warship yards. The Combine has their warship yards at Dieron, Midway, and New Samarkand.
Great update though, now I wonder what's next. O0
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if the FM can get that ship yard they? that could open them to bring in a lot of capital to planets. looking forward to the next update.
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Where does the Combine have those old Star League era Destroyers stashed again?
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Where does the Combine have those old Star League era Destroyers stashed again?
Last we heard they were all at Midway. And from what I've gathered they are unlikely to be updated in the near future, they don't fit well in the current Combine fleet (with their emphasis on parts inter-compatibility). They certainly could be pressed into service, but I suspect that would be a bit of a last ditch-type thing. They may not even be fully complete themselves.
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In the prime universe (canon one) does destroyers were deemed to be unusable even with existing technology. Personally, i think the writers were back filling why we haven't seen them before. They were very powerful ships for their time, even if they had high maintenance issues.
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Great update :) Seems the FS is building warships but at a price no doubt. Also a new battleship will keep the Falcons and Horses at bay.
The peace between the Ravens and Combine makes sense, now to see what the Cats are up to.
Very intersting that the Mandrils are going to go through Bear space and hit the Combine, this could result in the Combine though thinking it was initially a Bear assault and they can easily blame them for letting the Mandril's though their territory. But I wonder why they are going after some inoperative yards..
Will we see the stats for the Mandril's ASF's and Omni Kirghiz as well as the new FS/LC Battleship?
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Wrangler - no Peter Steiner-Davion yet plenty other ships named after Davions, Steiners or Steiner-Davions though
Vition2 - correct its pretty much a framework at Schyler and the destroyers are at Midway but they are in not operational unless you want to use canon Davion tactics.
marauder648 - the designs of the aerospace fighters are from the forum James Tanaga found them a while back and hopefully remembers the link. The OmniMech and Battleship will appear soon enough it's going to be in service of the Federated Suns/Lyran Commonwealth and SLDF.
Up next is Christmas even if I am working into it. So for everyone who had read this story, if you've commented or not, added you own contributions or just enjoyed the story have a Merry Christmas.
And as a Christmas present in the rest of this year...
A bloody hand, one crazy monkey, a Cat and a Dragon, a Varnay and a Mailed Fist, Furey steps into the light, the Hunter gets his due, Falcons rise, New First Lord, FWL cracks, a darkness rises in the depths of the Clans, betrayal is unveiled in the Federated Suns.
There's a bit more going on but I'll leave you with those to speculate over
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;D O0 :)) :)) :P thank you for your AU! Hmm... sounds like the new year for the AU will be interesting!!! keep it up
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Dragon Cat you're a terrible tease! Never ever change! It has been a pleasure to contribute towards this amazing TL and thank you for accepting my random drabbles!
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Thanks for the New Year tease. ;D
Merry Xmas and Happy New Year.
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You tease, merry Christmas and a happy new year to you all.
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Bonus before end of year (maybe an update coming haven't decided if I'm happy with it yet)
Indefatigable-class Battleship - including the original by JA Baker
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=55882.msg1284433#msg1284433 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=55882.msg1284433#msg1284433)
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O0 nice design!
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She's a beasty ship for sure!
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This ship should make a big difference in the short term for the Lyrans and SLDF. O0
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FWL cracks
Not sure I like the sound of that.
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Not sure I like the sound of that.
I didn't say break though O0
Have a good new year all
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I read your old stuff all last year.... More new current stuff please! ;)
TT
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I read your old stuff all last year.... More new current stuff please! ;)
TT
Can a guy not have five minutes?? Oh wait I've had six hours let's see what I've rustled up...
(Wasn't quite six hours and James Tanaga did a bit too)
Opening Ceremony, SLDF Facility Focht War College
Kentares City, Kentares IV
Draconis March, Federated Suns
6th June 3107
More than three hundred students stood in front of the Focht War College, a training facility that had once been built on Tukayyid, which had been reassembled piece by piece here on Kentares IV with the cooperation of the Federated Suns and Star League Protectorate Governments. Kommandant Maria Rudolph stood looking out over the assembled students “you have come from across the Inner Sphere and Periphery with the sole purpose of learning and bettering yourselves.” She began speaking Maria Rudolph was a twenty year veteran of the Eridani Light Horse Brigade she had learned the way of fighting as part of the Elite brigade and had fought battles on more than two dozen worlds however she had also helped teach the dependents of the Eridani teaching them more than just combat skills dedicating her life to the future generations making her the perfect new leader of the facility. “Some of you will return to your home realms with a greater understanding of the other nations of the Inner Sphere, others will join the ranks of the Star League Defence Force, to the many mercenary units or into civilian life employing the skills you have learned here to pursue whatever you want…” suddenly from behind Maria Rudolph in the foyer of facility a huge explosion ripped through the front of the College the blast and fire enveloped Kommandant Maria Rudolph, dozens of dignitaries including Duke David Dresari, the leader of Kentares, and spread over the crowd with debris showering the students causing dozens of fatalities and several more serious casualties.
From across Kentares emergency responders attend the site of the damaged College to evacuate casualties. Among the dead lay Maria Rudolph and David Dresari and nearly eighty of the students. Several days later an HPG Broadcast from the “Sixth of June” claims responsibility for the explosion stating that “Blake’s Word will rise once again.” Star League Protectorate and Federated Suns governments vow not to be bowed by terrorist attacks and intimidation and continue with the opening of the school despite the losses and the damage done with Kentares Militia training facilities doubling as a College Campus until the Focht War College is fully repaired.
Capellan Offensive
District of Oriente
Free Worlds League
12th June 3107
Under the command of Isabelle Fisk several Capellan Confederation regiments move into the “Ipswich thumb” which consists of three systems that have been isolated from the rest of the District of Oriente. Isabelle Fisk personally commands the assault on Pella II leading the Red Lancers against the Fourth Oriente Lancers killing the Free Worlds League unit’s commander in personal combat. With the Fourth all but destroyed on Pella II the mercenary commands directed to defend Ipswich and Shuen Wan quickly fold under the assaults of Capellan Regiments supported by naval forces.
Khan’s quarters, RCDS Snarling Mandrill (Overlord C)
Schuyler, Alberio Prefecture
Military District of Pesht, Draconis Combine
13th June, 3107
Khan Natasha Faraday stood, drying her still-wet body from a shower, as she looked down on the holo-display of Jonathan Banacek, her saKhan.
“I warned you before we came here,” he grumbled to her, annoyed. “Trying to find a specific asteroid in an asteroid field is like looking for a needle in a haystack. Are you sure the Dragons have yet to destroy it?”
She sighed, as they revisited the argument. “The K-F drive manufacturing plant is in one of the asteroids. It is too important for the Dragons to destroy.”
“If it is so important to them, then why has the complex not yet been repaired?” he countered. “The Dragons had close to fifty years to get it back online since the dezgra Blakists attacked it. They have the facilities earlier and where are the extensive defences?”
She shrugged. “If the plant was up and running the Bears would have hit Schuyler and the surrounding systems to either destroy or capture it and the Dragons would have lost one of their few remaining JumpShip yards at the time. So long as the plant remained down, the Bears did not entirely mind. As for the defences the yards themselves are a state perhaps the Dragon does not think this system is worth trying to defend.”.
Jonathan grumbled to himself as he turned his head to look at something off camera before turning his gaze back at her. “And you are sure the Dragons had not moved the facility out of system, quiaff?” He asked as she pulled on her duty vest preparing for another day on the planet.
“Aff,” she answered confidently back. “If they did, the Bears would certainly know about it.”
“As long as the Bear is not playing games with us…” saKhan Jonathan Banacek sighed again as Natasha continued to dress. “Has the Dragons on the planet’s surface been destroyed yet?”
Natasha shook her head looking back at the holo. “We currently have the Fourteenth District of Pesht Regulars pinned down in between a mountain range, but I am waiting until the Third Battle and Nineteenth Striker Clusters reposition themselves to finish them off. The First Cavalry Cluster has begun to garrison the capital city after destroying the dezgra mercs they took the fight into the city.” She remarked disgusted by the tactic bending over to tighten her boot laces smiling as she thought about the Mandrill boots smashing the Mercenary Battalion. Fighting in the city had cost her almost two Trinaries including a portion of Brienne Redburn’s nova but it had been worth it and the young Collection warrior had now been blooded claiming a kill over a mercenary Dragon BattleMech.
“Once you destroy the Dragons, I will signal the JumpShip fleet to begin evacuating the DropShip and JumpShip yards, Quiaff?” he asked.
“Aff,” Natasha answered back. “The sooner we begin disassembling the JumpShip yards from this world, the sooner we can get out of here. We do not have near enough forces in system to truly keep the system to ourselves for very long, with the Raven fight finishing sooner than we hoped we could face a counter attack at any time” she reminded him. “Still, I am hoping for us to find the asteroid before we withdraw from the system.”
“I know,” Jonathan agreed. “The K-F manufacturing plant would have jumpstarted our plans. Still, even the yards as they are currently will expedite them great.” He paused for a moment and smiled. “You concentrate on getting the yards out of here and I on the missing asteroid, quiaff?”
Aff,” she answered back, smiling.
Draconis Combine Counter-attack
Qandahar Prefecture, Pesht Military District
Draconis Combine
20th June 3107
Working together with the Star League Defence Force several units of the Draconis Combine Mustered Society cross into the Nova Cat Occupation zone liberating Harshill, Gravenhage and Lupine V. The DCMS/SLDF units destroy the Nova Cat’s Anders McKenna, a Swiftsure-class Cruiser, in the Gravenhage system while driving back the White Aerie, a Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser. On the ground elements of the 201st Nova Cat’s Roar Cluster, the 109th Striker Cluster and Seventh Nova Cat Roar Cluster are destroyed as is the DCMS Sixth Pesht Regulars as are half of the Fifth Yokosuka Land Air Mech Regiment.
Command Deck, RCDS Snarling Mandrill (Overlord C)
Schuyler, Alberio Prefecture
Military District of Pesht, Draconis Combine
24th June, 3107
Natasha stormed into the command centre onboard her DropShip, Brienne hot on her tail. Both had been enjoying a sparing session in the cargo bay as their BattleMechs were repaired following another skirmish with DCMS forces on the planet. Again the Mandrills had taken damage they couldn’t afford and again the DCMS units had faded away this time disappearing into the morning fog.
“Sitrep!” she shouted.
“The RCS Ash Storm and the RCS Firebrand are both reporting a WarShip have entered the system via a pirate point, Khan,” the male Technician manning the communications station reported, as Natasha and Brienne closed in on the holo-table. “Piping into the communications feed now.”
“-rally to navpoint Charlie!” Natasha heard Star Commodore Jason Thastus of the RCS Ash Storm, their York-class Carrier, yell out the York was at the Nadir Point while the Firebrand, their new Hakaze-class Escort Destroyer held station at the Zenith. Natasha guessed that Combine spies had informed their navy that the Mandrills defended the traditional jump points.
“Aff!” Natasha heard the slightly strained voice of the solahma Star Commodore in charge of the JumpShip fleet answered back. “Timeframe on your arrival?” he queried.
“Both the RCS Ash Storm and RCS Firebrand are bearing full speed to the fleet, RCJS Smiling Monkey,” the Star Commodore reported. “I have all my DropShips and fighters heading your way, but you will have to hold on until the RCS Firebrand can arrive.”
Natasha looked at the Elemental Star Captain manning the holo-table. He shook his head, causing Natasha’s heart to sink. The Draconis Combine WarShip, identified as the DCS Dedication to Duty, a Tatsumaki-class destroyer, was already closing in on the barely unprotected fleet of invaluable JumpShip and would arrive before the Mandrill WarShips facing only a handful of DropShips and aerospace fighters it would be a shooting gallery for the DCMS WarShip.
“If they take out the JumpShips-,” warned Brienne.
“I know!” Natasha cut her off as she studied the system map, hoping against hope there was some way to buy time for her JumpShip fleet otherwise their salvage mission and strike force were doomed.
Suddenly, saKhan Jonathan Banacek’s calm voice came through. “RCS Ash Storm, RCJS Crazy Monkey, transmit enemy WarShip’s coordinates, heading and speed. RCS Firebrand, confirm them immediately.” He commanded
Natasha brunched her eyebrows together, not understanding what her fellow Fire Mandrill Warrior was up to his JumpShip was detached from the others still scanning the asteroids for the fabled Combine manufacturing plant even his DropShips and fighters couldn’t help against the Combine destroyer. Thirty seconds later, both WarShips confirmed the DCS Dedication to Duty’s coordinates.
A minute later, more Fire Mandrill blips came onto the holo-image. It dawned on Natasha what the wily Warrior was up to at the same time as Brienne. “Oh god!” she head the younger woman gasp out. Natasha ignored it, too transfixed at the holo-screen knowing what was about to happen and knowing there was nothing that she could do.
Just as the blips reached the safety limit, Natasha watched the RCJS Crazy Monkey jump, momentarily disappearing from the holo-screen, before just as quickly reappearing, nearly right on top of the DCS Dedication to Duty in reality the Odyssey-class JumpShip had likely emerged right in front of the charging Combine Destroyer leaving no time for evasive manoeuvres. A second later, both Mandrill JumpShip and Dragon WarShip disappeared from sensors replaced with wreckage and debris.
“Confirmed. The RCJS Crazy Monkey just jumped right on top of the Dragon destroyer,” Natasha heard Star Commodore Jason Thastus report. “Both ships destroyed,” he added sombrely. The Khan looked down at the table mourning her saKhan, and friend’s death in silence for a moment before looking at the communication’s officer for a moment who nodded her understanding.
“Jonathan Banacek will be mourned by the Mandrills and all citizens of the Rim Collection” she said quietly knowing her calm voice would be transmitted to all Fire Mandrill units within reach. As she spoke she felt Brienne Redburn’s hand join hers in support and companionship. The Khan looked at the younger woman for a moment “he and his crew have secured their place in our Rememberance they will live eternally in our warrior caste and in our memories. Together we must succeed so their sacrifices were not in vain.” She said nodding again towards the communications officer to cut the transmission before looking back at the DropShip commander “pass to the cargo bay I want all of our units prepared for action immediately, including my OmniMech, I want to kill something.” She stated leading Brienne out of the command deck their hands still linked.
AFFS Border Fight
Sarna Commonality
Capellan Confederation
28th June 3107
With the Capellan Confederation focused on the District of Oriente Federated Suns units supported by elements of the Hampton’s Hessens, the Thirty-second Recon Group of the Lexington Combat Group, the Medusans, Clinton’s Cutthroats and the Fourth Illician Lancers Mercenary Commands assault the worlds of Heligoland, Kaifeng, Truth, Minnacora and New Sagan destroying elements of the Third and Fourth Capellan Defence Forces and completely destroying the Third Liao Lancers. Supporting AFFS efforts in the Truth system is the FSS Iroquois, which is the sister ship of the FSS Indefatigable and the ships delivered to the Lyran Commonwealth, the Iroquois is not needed to fire a single shot but is a symbol of the AFFS strength over the Capellan Confederation.
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O0 woo hoo! Nice update! Now I wonder if they Clan FM found the KF drive facility?
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Nice way to start the new years with a bang!
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The FS have their new Battleship Iroquois looking for trouble in the CapCon.
Do I smell a naval battle in the air for the new year. :D O0
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A great update and starting the new year with a series of bangs :)
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The FS have their new Battleship Iroquois looking for trouble in the CapCon.
Do I smell a naval battle in the air for the new year. :D O0
Only if the CapCon feel like losing a warship: they don't have anything that can stand against the FedSuns fleet >:D
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Only if the CapCon feel like losing a warship: they don't have anything that can stand against the FedSuns fleet >:D
If I didn't agree then I'd say you said that because you helped give the basics for their fleet O0
What do you think of the reworked Indefatigable?
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If I didn't agree then I'd say you said that because you helped give the basics for their fleet O0
What do you think of the reworked Indefatigable?
Just give the word and I'll build the Cappies something that can goes toe to toe with an Indy or a Mercury. I may be a loyal Son of the Sun's, but I'm also freelance 8)
As for the refit; fits your AU, so I have nothing against it. I built her to my tastes, and you're free to refit as you feel appropriate.
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For Marauder648
Link below is the three Collection omnifighters. I found them while looking for fan-created omnifghters with 350 XL engines on the forums. My plan was originally just one new omnifighter for the Fire Mandrills but liked all three enough I put them into my part of the story. Like always, Master Arminas did a beautiful job. ;)
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=24674.0
Only thing missing is an Elemental-carrier configuration for the Hun, which I am slowly working on.
Some info on who produces the three omnifghters. While Clan Fire Mandrill designed the Sarmatia, Clan Sea Fox (Steelsoul Khanate) so far is the lone manufacturer. Clans Snow Raven and Jade Falcon have shown some interest in the design.
Clans Fire Mandrill and Hell's Horses both produce the Parthia, with all the Clans having a keen interest in the design, all wanting to replace their aging Visigoths with it.
Clan Fire Mandrill remains the lone manufacturer of the Hun, though all Clans have an interest in it, Clans Nova Cat and Snow Raven especially.
Rasalhague Dominion while not manufacturing any yet, has recently gained the production specs of all three.
This is the Kirghiz-M battlemech the Collection militia clusters are slowly getting. Not the -G series Omnimech, but something Dragon Cat created for me.
Here you go my first run through of the Kirghiz. Plan being that you described it as slow so it goes slower than a standard assault even with an Extra Light Engine.
You'll note that the Extra Light is of IS manufacture the idea being that the Mandrills are using their XL plants on OmniMechs while diluting their tech with IS equivalents.
The Streak SRM launchers follow the same path using IS tech they are smaller than the ones on the Primary configuration of the OmniFighter. Same goes for the ER Large Lasers. Main reason behind these is ER Lasers and Streaks I thought made the best sense to use IS tech as it isn't much different weight wise than their Clan equivalents and pretty much do the same job.
The ballistic weaponry and heat sinks are a different proposition. The ballistic weapons of the IS gauss is way too heavy for this design so it got dropped while the LBX is too bulky. The Heat sinks I went with the same too bulks so kept with Clan variants.
Standard armour and Standard structure makes more sense because it's a Standard Mech class so we don't need to see cutting edge tech on it and I couldn't find space. I was tempted to throw a Composite or Endo Composite structure on it but if honest I'd only do that if I wanted to use more IS guns or a Light Fusion Engine (which I would have but wanted more heat sinks)
Let me know what you think if you want the armour balance changed (ie more or less rear on the torso) or the placement of the guns changed let me know. Only thing I don't want to change is the Streak SRMs just because it's different than what you'd expect.
Kirghiz G
Mass: 100 tons
Tech Base: Mixed
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Experimental Tech
Era: All Eras (non-canon)
Tech Rating/Era Availability: X/X-X-X-A
Production Year: 0
Cost: 17,424,667 C-Bills
Battle Value: 2,117
Chassis: Unknown Standard
Power Plant: Unknown 200 Fusion XL Engine
Walking Speed: 21.6 km/h
Maximum Speed: 32.4 km/h
Jump Jets: None
Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: Unknown Standard Armor
Armament:
2 (CL) Gauss Rifles
2 (IS) ER Large Lasers
1 (CL) LB 10-X AC
2 (IS) Streak SRM-4s
Manufacturer: Unknown
Primary Factory: Unknown
Communications System: Unknown
Targeting and Tracking System: Unknown
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Equipment Type Rating Mass
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Internal Structure: Standard 152 points 10.00
Engine: XL Engine 200 4.50
Walking MP: 2
Running MP: 3
Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks: (CL) Double Heat Sink 14(28) 4.00
Heat Sink Locations: 1 CT, 4 LT, 1 LA
Gyro: Standard 2.00
Cockpit: Standard 3.00
Actuators: L: SH+UA R: SH+UA
Armor: Standard Armor AV - 296 18.50
CASE Locations: RT, LA, RA 0.00
Internal Armor
Structure Factor
Head 3 9
Center Torso 31 49
Center Torso (rear) 12
L/R Torso 21 31
L/R Torso (rear) 11
L/R Arm 17 31
L/R Leg 21 40
================================================================================
Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(CL) LB 10-X AC RT 2 5 10.00
(CL) Gauss Rifle RA 1 6 12.00
(IS) ER Large Laser RA 12 2 5.00
(CL) Gauss Rifle LA 1 6 12.00
(IS) ER Large Laser LA 12 2 5.00
(IS) Streak SRM-4 RL 3 1 3.00
(IS) Streak SRM-4 LL 3 1 3.00
@LB 10-X (Cluster) (10) RT - 1 1.00
@LB 10-X (Slug) (10) RT - 1 1.00
@Streak SRM-4 (50) RT - 2 2.00
@Gauss Rifle (16) RA - 2 2.00
@Gauss Rifle (8) RL - 1 1.00
@Gauss Rifle (8) LL - 1 1.00
Free Critical Slots: 2
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 10 Points: 21
2 6 6 5 0 4 1 Structure: 4
Special Abilities: CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA, FLK 1/1/1
Again the above is the -M series, though it does say -G since it was Dragon Cat's first run through designing it for me.
Awesome design by the way! Not the Assault omnimech I was looking for originally, but a more then capable battlemech that will be seen in my Fire Mandrill parts as time goes on ;)
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Ah hah! There they are :) Thank you James that really cleared up the Clan fighters and Mech's for us. The Groundzig is also a really good defensive mech, she's a fine replacement for the Mars tank or a suppliment for it and makes good use of available tech.
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Trade Station
Kessel, Kessel Prefecture
Dieron Military District, Draconis Combine
7th July 3107
For nearly two weeks terrorists had held the Kessel Trade Outpost and nearly forty hostages including a Star League Defence Force trade delegation. Negotiations were going nowhere and the DEST had their orders. Explosions and smoke rocked the Trade Outpost as sixteen Battle Armoured DEST troopers each dressed in Kishi Battle Armour suits smashed through the roof. The whirl of the suits support machine guns filled the air followed by the roar as the weapons opened fire on the conventionally armoured terrorists. The small arms fire from the terrorists was no match for the heavy weapons fire however neither was the trade outpost which suffered significant damage during the ten minute assault.
Following the brief battle all of the terrorists are confirmed to be dead each of them torn to pieces by the heavy Kishi fire however over half of the hostages are also found to be dead including all but one of the SLDF trade delegation. While it is clear the situation needed to be resolved the Star League questions why the DEST troopers made use of a new front-line Battle Armour suit with strong anti-armour capabilities which would likely cause high collateral damage instead of a known quantity like the Kage which could have made a precision strike and minimized the losses to the hostages. The DCMS rebukes the SLDF comments stating that while the losses among the hostages were regrettable the DCMS had intelligence that the hostages were equipped with weapons capable of damaging Battle Armour which made the use of Kage suits a risk to the success to the operation which was unacceptable.
DropShip Rubicon
Independent Colony, Fasa City
Fasa, Deep Periphery
14th July 3107
Following Operation Klondlike the original colony of Fasa taken over by the new Clans its people distributed moved to Strana Mechty and inducted into Clan society while the colony itself had been completely dismantled and the colony world abandoned. Over the course of the Clan withdrawal from the Clan Homeworlds people fleeing the Society had fallen back to Fasa re-establishing the colony. Now after all these years the colony had swelled to almost seventy-five thousand men women and children who wanted to live free of the Society and surprisingly the Society left the system be.
On board an ancient Overlord-class DropShip that had been built into the colony years before Star Colonel Alex fought with another member of the Clan in one of the converted Mechbays on board the ship the two attacking and countering each other. Off to the side an female in late forties, wearing a black and red jumpsuit entered and watched the two warriors spar. After a moment Alex became aware of the observer and fought harder against his opponent knocking the other man to the ground. The other warrior came back to his feet and bowed his surrender to Alex before turning and moving away. Alex moved over to a grey metal bench picking up a towel before moving over towards the woman “Galaxy Commander Schmitt I did not realize you were on planet.” He said greeting her
“Congratulations on your victory yesterday, Star Colonel, I see your wounds have healed.” She said glancing at the scar on his chest.
“I pulled the stitches a couple of times but I am ready for duty and to take the fight to the Society.”
“Very good” she said looking at him “grab your top there is something I need to show you.” She said heading back out the door. Alex quickly grabbed his jacket and followed the Galaxy Commander through the DropShip and outside onto the snow covered street it seemed whatever planet he was on at the moment was in its winter cycle. “Do you know why Fasa works as a colony?”
“Because there is nothing strategic here neither out Clan or the Society has attempted to gain dominance here these people do not care to fight for the Kerensky Cluster and the Society do not see them as a threat.”
“But they have weapons” she pointed out the Rifleman IIC BattleMech standing at the end of the street was testimony to that. “They also have territory and JumpShips so why do we not fight over this world?”
“I do not know Galaxy Commander” Alex said it felt strange mingling with the people of Fasa and feeling like he was a hundred light years from a threat there was no war. Since the conflict with the Society began there had been no war here.
“Of course you do not few of us know the full truth of Fasa” Schmitt admitted “today you join a small group that know the truth.” She said stopping in the middle of the street “look over there and tell me what you see.” She said indicating towards the restaurant which had been cut out of the side of another DropShip with a fabric canopy covering most of the seating area. Alex studied the seating area for several moments before seeing something, he looked a second time, he reached for his weapon before being stopped by Schmitt her hold on his arm strong and secure. “I see you realize what this place’s secret is?”
“That is Scientist General Gibson the head of the Society’s Research and Development. He is responsible for the deaths of millions of citizens of the Kerensky Cluster.” Alex said his lock still firm on the weapon but Schmitt’s grip not lessening.
“Aff, he is a monster” she admitted “he is our enemy and we will not give up until he is dead and all of his kind are dead as well.” She said Alex could hear the anger in her voice. The young warrior felt a cold shiver pass over him as the Scientist General looked in their direction their eyes seemed to meet for a moment but Alex was sure he was actually looking directly at Karen Schmitt beside him. “We have an unspoken agreement with the Society, Alex, we do not bring war to Fasa and nor will they. We both need this world for trade and intelligence we learn things about the Society here and they learn things about our Clan here.”
“How can we accept that?” He demanded the Clan had taken great lengths to keep their current base of operations a closely held secret even Alex who would soon command a Cluster would not know where the homeworld was.
“Because this place is a necessary evil” Schmitt admitted “every war has things that people will not agree with. They do not break any laws and are not morally wrong but there is always something that will not sit well with you.” She explained “this Compromise on Fasa is something that both us and the Society have to accept. It is not a choice do you understand Alex? If you come here representing our Clan and with your people there can be no retribution taken on the Society here. The people here are innocent of the war and it is to remain that way.”
“As long as the Society keeps to their end of it” Alex said his grip loosening on his sidearm but his eyes not leaving Scientist General Gibson.
“They will until the bitter end” Schmitt said “now come, we need to eat but we won’t be eating with that bastard how about something from Circe?” She said keeping her grip on Alex’s arm drawing him away from their standoff with Gibson and into the main street of the bustling capital city of Fasa a world in the middle of a war but completely removed from it.
Briefing Room, Lyran High Command
Tharkad City, Tharkad
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
30th July 3107
Kelly Varnay nervously brushed at her dress uniform trying to clean off yet another speck of dirt off it. She had been summoned to Tharkad almost as soon as her unit had been pulled off the front-lines and back to Kaumberg while the rest of the unit had continued home she and her company commanders had been ordered to report to the High Command as soon as they arrived on Tharkad. Once they had arrived she had been escorted here to this briefing room where she waited. For the last thirty-four years she had done everything she had been expected to everything a Varnay would not do ever since her mother and uncle had smuggled her away from her father in the Federated Suns and into the Lyran Commonwealth. She knew her mother had tried to take her older sister Terra with them but she had refused to come scared of being uncovered they had run. Yet after all her efforts she was here, pacing the room Kelly looked around but took little of the room in, she was angry she had fought off the Stone Spirits and taken the initiative with actions that the generals could not take yet here she was. The doors opened and in entered General of Armies Aiden Grey who had re-established his full command of the Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces following the Stone Spirit crisis Kommandant Kelly Varnay instantly came to attention. The General closed the door behind him and looked her over for a moment “at east Kommandant” he ordered with a disarming smile “welcome to Tharkad.”
“Thank you, sir, sir if I could speak for my actions that have led me to this point…” She began as Grey began to sit but the General raised his hand silencing her then turned it towards a chair opposite his indicating for her to sit
“I want to thank you Kommandant” he said as she sat Kelly Varnay looked stunned and remained silent. “The Rapid Response units were laughed at by the High Command when I first cleared their formation but your successes proved my faith in the concept so much so it has been decided that we will be raising further commands.” He said leaning back in his chair taking in the stunned silence from the younger woman opposite him. “I assume this is not how you expected today to go?” He asked all she did was nod “you are not your father” he said quietly realizing where at least some of this was coming from “I do not know how you feel about House Davion but you are a loyal daughter of the Lyran Commonwealth I can see that as can the Archon.” He said placing a small box on the table between them pushing it towards them “so as of this date you are a Leutenant-Colonel in the Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces. You will retain command of the First Fesnyng” he announced seeing her surprise “when you put the name on your official reports you have to expect it to catch on.”
“Yes sir” she said wondering if he knew if the name referred to a number of ferrets together… but remained quiet she liked the name it described what her unit was a group that worked closely together and could fill each other’s rolls if required they worked as a tightly knit team.
“Your unit is rotating to York there it will train with further Fesnyng units and bring new flexibility to the LCAF.” He said finally surprising her as far as she was aware her unit had been rotated back to Kaumberg.
“What about the Kaumberg militia? They will be short staffed if my unit is not being reintegrated.”
“We will take care of Kaumberg” he promised her. He said “I’d also like to show you this” he said pressing a control on the table activating the holo projector. This is a new DropShip design that was submitted to the LCAF for consideration.” He said the blue holographic image displayed an aerodyne type DropShip that was roughly oval in shape as it turned in front of her. Unlike most DropShips the ship appeared to have three distinct hull sections with the two wings spreading out from the nose and reconnecting at the rear of the ship leaving open space between the wings and the primary hull which appeared to be streamlined with multiple decks. At the rear of the ship there was a massive engine section. “We hope to develop this basic design into the Fesnyng-class DropShip specifically built to transport your new rapid response units combined with a single JumpShip we hope to make your units completely mobile able to respond to threats across our Commonwealth.” He said Kelly felt embarrassed she had thought she was coming to Tharkad to be disciplined for disobeying orders and taking the fight to the enemy but instead they had opened up so many opportunities for her and her people.
“Thank you for the opportunity sir” she finally said “we won’t let you down.”
“I know you won’t” Aiden Grey said standing up as Kelly did the General of Armies extended his hand and they shook “you have our full support, Colonel, now go out and give the Commonwealth a new weapon.”
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Snow Raven After Action Report - created by Vition2 with a little polishing from me
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=55961.msg1285918#msg1285918 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=55961.msg1285918#msg1285918)
Kirghiz M - now with fluff and a bit cleaned up
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=55962.new#new (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=55962.new#new)
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nice update!
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Very nice update.
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Superb updates :)
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Time for a little update
Hot Drop
Babylon, Pentagon Worlds
Deep Periphery
9th August 3107
“Okay listen up boys and girls the Fourteenth have been pushed, battered and beaten but they are still standing on Babylon.” Alex said sitting in his Conjurer’s cockpit as it was carried towards Babylon’s surface inside the DropShip. Alex glanced around the small cockpit of his fifty ton BattleMech looking for the worlds the BattleMech had never seen war, it was a brand-new variant of the Conjurer built within the last six months to support operations against the Society, it had no stories to tell and no words to give up. “We are all in this together let’s make sure the Fourteenth know that.” He commanded cutting off the link as the DropShip began to rumble as hit the atmosphere. “Here we go” he announced a couple of moments later looking at his sensors which were connected to the DropShip’s. Outside the DropShip aerospace fighters rose through the atmosphere heading towards the DropShip “at four hundred metres jumpers go, secure our LZ, the rest of us when we land we get out of the DropShip we hit the Society hard. We are going to locate the Fourteenth and allow them to ex-filtrate to the DropShip then we get ourselves out. I want you all to get back on board the DropShip.” He said as the DropShip came closer to the ground he knew if there was heavy Society resistance they wouldn’t all be coming back he’d already lost some as the aerospace fighters belonging to the Clan and to the Society continued to fight and die in the air.
“Jumpers go!” He commanded watching metres tick by from the DropShip’s Mechbay a binary of BattleMechs and OmniMechs, carrying a star of Power Armoured Elemental troops and a star of ProtoMechs dropped from the Overlord-C heading towards the ground. In an ideal world Alex would have had three full trinaries of OmniMechs to use from a DropShip of this size but this was not an ideal world instead all he had beyond what had just dropped from the DropShip was a second binary of ten ground-bound BattleMechs including his own Mech. Alex watched the sensor feed as the BattleMechs and ProtoMechs fell around them aerospace fighters circled and ready to pounce. Alex watched the sensors helpless as the Society aerospace fighters strafed his falling BattleMechs and ProtoMechs as they fell several of the battle armoured troopers, who were riding on board the OmniMechs, were knocked off the Mechs killed by the attack. “For the cause” Alex whispered so his microphone wouldn’t pick up the words then louder fortunately the Mechs had all survived but the Elementals that had been hit were gone “ground force stand-by” he said as the DropShip rocked to a landing “go, go, go!” He commanded throttling his BattleMech forward the Overlord’s doors opened as soon as the DropShip landed “Alpha Deployment, Alpha deployment!” He commanded moving his Conjurer onto the ground already a battle was fully engaged between the forces that had dropped in and the Society forces already on planet. Alex moved his BattleMech into the firing line immediately targeting a Septicemia OmniMech with his Conjurer’s LB X-class autocannon, short range lasers and one of his two large lasers. Immediately there was a small spike in heat in the cockpit but Alex was glad to see the right arm of the enemy Mech fall off the OmniMech a burned and broken shadow of what it was before.
Alongside Alex’s Conjurer an allied Shadow Hawk IIC stepped up alongside and unloaded its weapons into the target followed by the particle cannons from an Adder OmniMech. The combination of the three Clan Mechs targeting the single Septicemia brought the enemy OmniMech down quickly. “Adam, April kill it” he commanded the Shadow Hawk and Adder pilots the old laws of Zellbrigen had been forgotten by the Clan in its conflict with the Society neither of his sibmates ignored the command or hesitated. With the Septicemia dealt with Alex had a moment to look at his sensors and take stock of what was happening he saw there were at least two Society Treys in the immediate area. “Team One, step away from the line, we are a go” he said turning his BattleMech backwards turning away from the Society Mechs and towards the east “Team Two, keep the back door open Star Captain Jorgensson you are in command” he said. The operation was simple Alex’s team would locate what remained of the Fourteenth while the other group of Clan Mechs and Battle Armour would remain and defend the DropShip.
Around Alex a binary of BattleMechs and all of the remaining ProtoMechs ran through Babylon’s forests charging towards the last known position of the Fourteenth. “Lima Fourteen, I repeat Lima Fourteen, this is Lima Two, repeat Lima Two, we are on Gamma and ready for Echo. Charlie Oscar I repeat Charlie Oscar.” He called out on an open channel the code words were generalized and would be picked out by their enemy but it was all they could do. Smashing his fifty ton BattleMech through tree branches Alex caught a glance of something moving off to his right “Lima Fourteen?” He called out raising his Mech’s right arm which held the autocannon aiming it at the sighting.
“Down sir” the warrior said as Alex’s BattleMech cleared the trees the words hit Alex as if he had run into a brick wall. As his Conjurer cleared the trees he saw a battered sixty-five ton Ebon Jaguar bearing the Clan’s insignia barely standing after the beating it had taken.
“How many… how many are left?” Alex struggled scanning the area around the allied OmniMech.
“Twenty-one of us including a few support staff” the warrior said the words hit him as hard as the words confirming Mike Lassenem’s passing the Fourteenth had over one hundred staff including techs and support staff the command had been completely shattered in seven months of fighting against the Society. “Sir, Lassenem gave me the Intelligence file he said that you would come for it.”
“We came for you” Alex said stepping his Mech forward allowing his words to sink in with the other pilot he was aware of another Mech in close proximity glancing at his sensors he saw it was Elrick’s Summoner. Alex switched comm. channels onto his own units “Elrick situation report” he commanded.
“Sir, fighters are holding the air but we are running out of time. We think there is the equivalent of a Society Cluster being mobilized to track down us and what is left of the Fourteenth.” The older warrior reported with Alex’s promotion to Cluster command Elrick had finally received his promotion to Star Captain making him one of Alex’s most senior warriors a fact that he often reminded the younger Star Colonel.
“There is not much left of the Fourteenth, we are pulling them out in one go. Pass word to orbit we will squeeze them into our DropShip” he commanded overloading the DropShip would be frowned on but given that he hadn’t come to Babylon with a full unit the additional units and people shouldn’t stress the old Overlord too much. He switched back to the general frequency “your people need to be ready to move now, Quiaff?”
“Aff this way” the other warrior replied the broken Ebon Jaguar turning leading deeper into the undergrowth.
“Star Captain have our lighter elements spread out in this undergrowth their eyes will be more useful than our sensors. And pass to all of Team Two keep an eye on the Fourteenth something feels off.” He said watching the Ebon Jaguar move despite its damage the OmniMech was moving very smoothly and each time Alex tried to scan the OmniMech his Conjurer’s systems were jammed by interference something that shouldn’t happen between friendly units. The entered a clearing and Alex stopped short in the middle of the clearing there was Star Colonel Mike Lassenem’s Blood Asp OmniMech standing to attention facing an Osteon OmniMech painted in Society colours between the two OmniMechs was a pair of wires and hanging from the wires were bodies, at least two dozen of them.
“Your precious Fourteenth all that remains of Clan…” the Ebon Jaguar pilot began to say just as Alex triggered all of his weapons into the back of the heavy OmniMech. At this range there was no chance of missing the target every shot went straight into the back of the Ebon Jaguar knocking through the armour and internal structure shattering the fusion engine and gyro inside in seconds. Safety systems quickly activated powering down the OmniMech as it fell to the ground destroyed. Beside him Elrick was already firing on the Osteon but Alex could see more units coming in from in front of them and he could hear the ProtoMech pilots calling in that they were being engaged by Clan forces on all sides.
“Fall back all units fall back to the DropShip!” Alex screamed firing his autocannon, missiles and one of his large lasers as quickly as they would cycle was he began to pull back the Conjurer. “Star Captain I said fall back” Alex commanded seeing Elrick and two other Mechs accelerating forwards engaging the enemy.
“We will Colonel after you withdraw, you are the future of our Clan Alex, I am a solahma we are ready for this. FOR THE CAUSE!” Elrick shouted continuing to fire his weapons on the heavier Osteon. The massively armoured OmniMech standing up to the punishment as other Mechs arrived to support it Alex could see the bodies of the members of the Fourteenth had fall to the ground while the Blood Asp continued to stand strong.
“You stubborn old man” Alex cursed “none of you will not be forgotten” Alex promised Elrick continuing to withdraw as one of the Mechs standing with the Star Captain’s Summoner was knocked to the ground under fire from several Society units. “Team One firing retreat cover your partners let’s go” he said turning his Mech withdrawing into the undergrowth. Like the others Alex twisted his BattleMech’s turret styled torso to fire on the enemy units while withdrawing along an irregular route it made for a longer distance and slower retreat but it also made them a harder target. Elrick and the others fell quickly after Alex had withdrawn several of the ProtoMech pilots and two light BattleMechs had continuously attacked the incoming Society units keeping them off balance as they advanced it was suicide for Alex’s units but if they didn’t do it then none of them would escape.
Clearing the trees Alex turned directly towards the DropShip he saw many of the units he had left guarding the DropShip were already boarding the DropShip. “Star Captain Jorgennson you heard I assume?”
“Aff, Star Colonel, nasty business.” The Elemental warrior confirmed Alex noted that he still stood outside the DropShip along with most of the battle armour.
“Is our own nasty business in place?” Alex asked he noticed a simple green light acknowledgement from Jorgennson and assumed the Elemental was busy talking to someone else so continued. “Understood, when you are ready Star Captain Jorgennson deliver our presents.” Alex commanded seeing the last of his units return to the landing zone. Moments later the entire tree line for three hundred metres in every direction was engulfed in a massive napalm explosion the fire would burn for three days if not tackled by the Society and would be enough to keep all but the most nimble of enemy units at bay. “There is nothing left for us here all units withdraw. They have won today but we will win this war.” Alex said with Mike Lassenem’s death the words felt hollow they had failed to recover any intelligence for the planet, failed to rescue any members of the Fourteenth and failed to ex-filtrate one of their Clan’s most respected Cluster commanders. This was a defeat on every level and today Alex was not sure if even he believed they could stop the Society perhaps the Clans were right perhaps their future was in the Inner Sphere.
Mechbay, Twin Sons Defence Base
Badlands, Twin Sons
District of Lesnovo, Free Worlds League
13th August 3107
Forty-two cadets stood in lines to attention in front of several defence Mechs of the Twin Sons Defence Forces among the cadets stood Petra Furey, daughter of Michael and Sandra Furey. Over the years the Twin Sons had united and divided more than ever with the Northern and Southern factions had warred as often as they had supported the reborn Free Worlds League. While on Twin Sons the remnant Smoke Jaguar population who remained on the planet had become more and more radical in their beliefs that a single unifying force was needed to control the Twin Sons something Petra’s father Michael Furey had tried to control them over the years. Petra knew that the Jaguar WarShip Streaking Mist had successfully avoided falling under the control of the Free Worlds League and the Twin Sons governments and there was a growing contingent of warriors who believed in the Smoke Jaguar way.
As defacto leaders of the Smoke Jaguars and by extension of the Badlands Michael and Sandra Furey attempted to keep the peace on Twin Sons and had directed Petra towards the united defence force of the planet instead of supporting the Smoke Jaguars or Badlands forces with the intention that she could be the glue that held their world together. Standing with the other cadets in the Mechbay Petra realized she didn’t care about being the glue looking up at the lead BattleMech of the Second Twin Sons Regiment, a fifty ton Uziel, she realized all she wanted to do was pilot a BattleMech and the rest would fall into place as she desired. Either side of her stood other cadets from all across the Twin Sons each of them desired the same thing each of them had dreamed of being a MechWarrior and now they were here they had their chance.
Counter-attack
Schuyler, Alberio Prefecture
Military District of Pesht, Draconis Combine
18th August 3107
MechWarrior Shauni Hartford’s stomach was in bits as the DropShip entered the atmosphere fourteen hours before the Fourth Amphigean Legion’s JumpShip had jumped into a pirate point in the Schuyler system and released their four DropShips heading for the planet. They had passed the dispersing wreckage of the DCS Dedication of Duty and then made the high G burn towards the planet for fourteen hours the MechWarriors and armour crews had tried to rest inside their Mechs and vehicles as the DropShips burned towards the planet.
The DropShip rocked heavily as it dropped through towards Schuyler Shauni didn’t know if it was because of the turbulence or if it was because of attacks from Fire Mandrill Aerospace units but she knew that soon it would be over and they’d be on the ground or they’d be dead. The DropShip rocked almost constantly as the altitude decreased the lights in front of Shauni’s BattleMech began to blink orange giving her a countdown to the planet’s surface. Suddenly the Mechbay lights turned green and the Mechdoors opened allowing the MechWarriors to exit. Shauni stepped her Ha Otoko 3 BattleMech forwards towards the exit door immediately stepping into a barrage of autocannon fire which had been targeted on the DropShip doors as the Fire Mandrills attempted to contest the landing zones. Shauni sighted an enemy BattleMech, a Fire Mandrill Crimson Langur OmniMech, and let rip with both of her Mech’s arm mounted extended range large lasers immediately following up with a volley of long range missiles from both torso launchers.
“All MechWarriors hold the perimeter until our armour and infantry disembark” Tai-sa Kusunoki Masashige commanded as his Hatamoto-Chi stepped out of the DropShip immediately being hit by a long range missile volley ripping open the torso armour. Masashige returned fire with his particle cannons into the undergrowth targeting a Mandrill Macaque armoured vehicle blowing through its armour burning off the ammunition bay the vehicle’s CASE was the only thing that saved the vehicle sending the blast through the rear and side of the vehicle. It was out of the fight but the crew would fight another day. Shauni got back to her own battle targeting a Fire Mandrill Shadow Cat targeting the OmniMech with two barrages of long range missiles she saw several of the missiles slamming into the OmniMech’s cockpit glass which shattered inwards the Shadow Cat stumbled and then fell to the ground without its pilot. Off to her right the Crimson Langur reappeared firing a red large laser blast and twin opal heavy laser blasts into the side of Shauni’s BattleMech causing heavy armour damage destroying the large laser and medium laser in her Mech’s right arm. She twisted the torso of the damaged Mech and raised the left arm firing the remaining two lasers and both long range missile launchers at the OmniMech while accelerating her Mech trying to avoid a second salvo of laser fire from the Crimson Langur this time the right leg took the brunt of the fire melting away the armour there.
“Inferno missiles on the east and southern flanks lay down cover fire and smoke we are falling back to the North West. The Order is ABADON repeat ABADON.” Kusunoki Masashige commanded as his BattleMech took several autocannon blasts followed by more missile strikes. The order for ABADON stated that the landing zone was lost and all remaining forces were to escape to fight an irregular battle at a later date. Shauni ignored the order for a moment firing on the Crimson Langur again burning away more of the armour on the fifty ton OmniMech more laser blasts tore into the side of the Ha Otoko as the Mandrill pilot returned fire shattering her BattleMech’s knee actuator. “Strike four ABADON” Kusunoki ordered her directly seeing she still stood where she was firing at the enemy OmniMech. Kusunoki opened fire with his own particle cannons smashing the Crimson Langur’s right leg Shauni opened fire with her own lasers targeting the left leg knocking the Mandrill OmniMech to the ground disabled.
“Negative Tai-sa, I will be standing rearguard with you, leg actuator damage” she said seeing that his BattleMech had not moved from the DropShips.
“Understood then we buy them enough time to escape” he commanded “cover the right I have the left” he said she noticed there was a few of the heaviest vehicles which were remaining in position as well their crews knowing that there was no way for them to escape. The fighting seemed to go on for hours with the two BattleMechs and six armoured vehicles holding position firing on the Fire Mandrills as they swarmed the landing zones. When she ran out of missiles Shauni continued to fire her lasers and AP Gauss rifle until they too had been disabled or the ammunition was gone. Kusunoki continued to stand against everything that the Mandrills threw at his Mech but even the Tai-sa’s BattleMech could not take the damage that was being thrown at him. The Tai-sa’s Hatamoto-Chi exploded behind her Ha Otoko the blast knocking her BattleMech to the ground twisting her broken right leg disabling the BattleMech with no ammunition and her BattleMech immobile Shauni drew her Katana the blade of a warrior ready to die with honour but this fight was not her end. As the Combine vehicles were disabled Mandrill Power Armour units moved in to mop up what remained with Shauni locked inside her cockpit the Mandrill warriors detonated concussion blasts on the outside of the BattleMech knocking the MechWarrior out without killing her.
With complete air superiority the Fire Mandrill aerospace fighters were able to attack the retreating DCMS units for hours causing damage and harrying the Fourth Ampigean Leion as it retreated from the LZ. But despite the Fire Mandrill successes at the landing zone two combined-arms battalions of Draconis Combine troops were able to escape into the wilderness of Schuyler prepared to resist the Clan invaders until their last breath.
Meeting Room, Ken’s Authentic Chinese Cuisine
Chinatown, New Canton
Star League Protectorate
21st August 3107
In the backroom of a small restaurant in New Canton’s Chinatown district the Federated Suns DMI representative was escorted by local gang members into the rear room where he saw the single occupant already waited. Sitting at the table was an individual dressed in a green power armour suit with the helmet still on concealing his identity while on the table were two Sternsnatch Slug thrower Pistols the DMI agent was not dressed for combat wearing a simple black suit and black sunglasses so he chose the diplomatic route. “Mr Grant” the agent said looking at the suit “I did not expect to see you here in person is the Star League aware you are here?” He asked the trooper remained completely silent “come now Mr Grant we know it is you inside that suit you spoiled the mystique of the Bounty Hunter by that little stunt on Robinson. We were quite impressed that you stayed within the AFFS for so long to complete that job.” He said moving around the trooper who still remained silent. “I am wondering why you called for this meeting? You must know that the Federated Suns will never forgive you for the assassination of Tancred Sandoval.” He said stepping back towards the door “now Mr Grant tell me why I am here or it is time for me to leave.”
“I do not know why you think I am this Grant you are speaking about” the Power Armour suited trooper said standing up the voice was distinctly feminine. “If you refer to Christopher Grant he was simply an agent of mine” she said stepping forwards placing her hand on the agent’s shoulder gripping the expensive suit the DMI man wore.
“Then I apologies” the man said turning around the Bounty Hunter allowing their hand to slip off his shoulder “my name is Smith a pleasure to meet you” he said removing his sunglasses revealing piercing blue eyes underneath “you are still an enemy of the Federated Suns.”
“Convenient” the Bounty Hunter replied
“Convenient?” The agent asked surprised by the Bounty Hunter’s reaction.
“Yes” the figure answered “I am your friend when I complete a contract for the Federated Suns to kill someone, which I have done many times,” they said walking around Agent Smith “but when I complete a contract for a Federated Suns citizen I am your enemy.”
“You murdered a March Lord!” Smith snapped
“His position had nothing to do with the contract” the Bounty Hunter replied reaching over slipping a small data disk into the Agent’s top pocket “it was entirely a family affair.” The Bounty Hunter said stepping around the Agent again “the person who took out this contract believed that they could rule the Draconis March better than Tancred Sandoval’s children they wanted to serve the Federated Suns in a greater capacity.”
“By having someone killed”
“Come now Agent Smith we have already agreed that the Federated Suns has contracted the Bounty Hunter to kill people in the past. House Davion has killed many people in the past the only difference between House Davion ordering someone killed and me killing someone is I do it for money it is simple business.” The Bounty Hunter said stepping towards the door “I want to continue to do business with the Federated Suns but it is up to you.” They said finally before disappearing out the door. Smith reached for his concealed communicator to alert the other DMI agents but found it was jammed instead he reached for the disk and pushed it into the top slot on the communicator glancing over the first few pages of the contract the Bounty Hunter had revealed. If what Smith had read on the disk was true then he was quite relieved that the communicator was jammed now the DMI had work to do to verify the findings.
Training Room, Clan Staging Area
Barcella, Kerensky Cluster
Deep Periphery
23rd August 3107
Alex screamed as his boot connected with the combat-helmet sending it across the room. He was alone in the training room and had been alone for most of the last two weeks as he had tried to get over the loss of the Fourteenth and Mike Lassenem. Grief was not something that warriors were supposed to dwell on but he couldn’t help himself he walked over to the gear rack and threw another helmet across the room trying to vent some of the anger he was feeling.
“Do you intend on breaking everything on this base?” Star Colonel David Nostra, the base commander, asked. David Nostra, a former Nova Cat warrior, was completely calm at Alex’s attitude.
“Perhaps” Alex admitted not looking at the other man “why not?”
“Because it is not something that an officer or a bloodnamed warrior should be doing” Nostra said noting Alex’s recent victory in the bloodname contest for Mike Lassenem’s Bloodname. “You have a legacy to uphold Star Colonel.”
“Some legacy” Alex said looking back at David Nostra “what exactly are we David? A hodgepodge collection of former clan warriors who have come together to what die slowly?” He said angrily “we can’t win this!” He said angrily
“As long as the homeworld remains hidden we can survive” David said calmly “we are one Clan, we agreed to follow one Khan, and we stand against the Society where all else have fallen. For the Cause.” He said repeating the words that all Clan warriors knew to heart Alex Lassenem nodded he was no longer a member of the Hell’s Horses Clan he along with all others had given up that right when the other Clans withdrew from the Homeworlds they were now under one banner.
“We have another mission for your unit” David Nostra said “if you are ready for it then follow me.” He said without another words turning towards the exit. Alex looked at the two combat helmets still lying on the floor for a moment before leaving following the other Star Colonel. David Nostra moved through the small complex and down into the Mechbay walking along past the Clan Mechs that were sitting in their bays silent waiting for their pilots they walked straight past Alex’s Conjurer to the furthest area of the Mechbay. David Nostra stopped in front of a trio of Osteon OmniMechs which had been captured from the Society.
“What are we doing here?” Alex demanded barely able to look at the Osteon remembering the OmniMech from the death of Mike Lassenem and the Fourteenth.
“This is going to be your new Mech while two others will pilot the other Mechs and three other warriors will pilot other captured Society designs. Your mission will take you into Society territory on Babylon impersonating a Society escort force” David Nostra said Alex dreaded returning to that world “we are going to send you in front of a major offensive against the Society. Your people will try to gather the intelligence we failed to get from the Fourteenth” he explained seeing Alex’s reaction “I know… before you say anything it was not the fault of the Fourteenth but they attempted to approach it as a Clan unit collecting intelligence as we do. We need you to think out of the box. Think as a Society unit does and gather strike data for our forces to exploit in an all out assault on Babylon.”
“We do not have the resources to capture and hold Babylon” Alex said in fact they did but it would take all of their remaining WarShips and the majority of their ground forces to capture and hold the planet and even then it would be only for a couple of days then Society reinforcements would arrive and the planet would be lost once more.
“You are correct but we can hit Babylon at the right time. Overwhelm the defenders in that particular region and complete our mission.” David Nostra explained
“What is the target?”
“That is need to know” David Nostra explained
“Need to know? I will be the man on the ground when this happens I need to know.” Alex snapped angrily “if you do not tell me I will challenge you and defeat you in a Circle of Equals for the information.” He said he was a clan warrior and would stand by these actions.
“How do you know that I know the ultimate objectives?” David Nostra asked his words and actions were very unclan-like but then these were unclan-like times. The Star Colonel looked around the bay as if afraid someone who shouldn’t be was listening he looked back at Alex and spoke in a hushed tone “your mission will expose a weakness in the Society’s structure and set them back years if all goes to plan, that’s all I can say.” He said Alex didn’t like it but didn’t say anything further instead he looked at three powerful Osteons.
“How will we be inserted into the Society? They would expect something if we were to suddenly appear on Babylon.” He finally asked.
“You will be inserted into a Society relief column here on Barcella. Your Mechs and others will replace those defending the convoy and then you will be shipped off to Babylon. We’ve created fake Society papers for your travel they will pass customs on Barcella and by the time you are on Babylon no-one will know who should have been piloting those Mechs.” He said confidently Alex wasn’t convinced all they needed was for one of the warriors to have contacted someone on Babylon privately and everything would be bust as soon as they got there. “From there you will be under control of the Society your orders will be to gain intelligence on their operations and be ready to support our offensive operations.” David Nostra said informing him of what parts of the operation he was aware of. “You and the others will be given a drop-box location to leave intelligence but otherwise you will be on your own on Babylon as all of our other assets have been compromised or eliminated.”
“Spy work is not work for a Clan warrior” Alex Lassenem grumbled he had no training for this he was a warrior he confronted things with weapons and with his fists not behind closed doors and with cloaks and daggers.
“Conventional Clan tactics are not effective enough. The only military options that would be effective are Nuclear Biological or Chemical weapons or orbital bombardment. I think you’ll agree Star Colonel Quiaff?”
“Aff” Alex agreed “I suggest Star Captain Jorgensson takes command of the Cluster while I am on… detached duty.” He said finally looking back at the OmniMechs again it was not an ideal situation but perhaps it was for the best.
Ambush
Barcella, Kerensky Cluster
Deep Periphery
26th August 3107
The Clan forces on Barcella watched as the convoy moved into position through a shallow canyon as expected it was being escorted by three Osteons, two Septicemias and one Cephalus the exact composition of Alex’s substitute force. Alex watched the Society forces move close “All units execute battle plan.” He commanded as they entered the target area. From all sides Clan units of various sizes engaged the six enemy Mechs with almost every weapon that a fighting unit could carry. Even the robust nature of the Society OmniMechs was not enough to protect them from the amount of weapons fire directed on them all six were rapidly neutralized while Electronic Counter Measures covering the area blocked any transmissions. “Elementals move in secure the transports, clean up teams remove the wreckage I want no sign of our fighting here.” He commanded from the undergrowth. “Mimic team move in” he said the five other warriors in captured Society OmniMechs moved out of their concealed positions and approached the six supply vehicles taking up the escort positions that had been occupied by the defenders before Alex could see plenty of mistakes with the defensive positions but decided to retain the Society positions.
“Boss, the drivers are Barcella natives who just want to survive this thing, they will take you to the DropShips without issue. I have got teams shadowing you if things go wrong we will pull you out before anything goes wrong.” Star Captain Matt Jorgensson said Alex could see his Battle Armour suit jumping down from one of the vehicles. “Good luck sir” he said Alex noted that the young Elemental did not say what would happen if things went wrong when they were onboard the DropShip mainly because by then it would be too late Alex checked his gauss pistol was still concealed in the cockpit glad to find it exactly where he had stashed it. Even if the Society techs found it the weapon wouldn’t stand out plenty of MechWarriors had small arms hidden in their cockpits to be used as a last ditch defence for them if the cockpit was breached or if they needed. Alex couldn’t help but feel a little apprehensive about the mission which was largely still an unknown but it was what the Clan needed to do and he would do everything he could to make sure it happened.
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Does this Clan on Fasa have name? This is a fascinating little jaunt in the Clan Homeworld Space.
Thanks for the Update, Dragon Cat and Friends!
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Wrangler the full story is here
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=55415.0 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=55415.0)
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Clan on FASA Clan Mongrel O0
As it seems to be a mixed batch of members
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nice update
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With a little help from marauder648, Vition2 and James Tanaga here's the newest update
Royal Medical Wing, Steiner Royal Palace
Arcturus, Arcturus Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
2nd September 3107
In the Royal Palace of House Steiner Archon Jessica Steiner gives birth to her third daughter Trillian Steiner by Admiral Patrick Doyle. Both mother and child are well, with their borders at peace and economy booming Jessica Steiner has her highest approval rating since taking over as leader of the Lyran Commonwealth.
Capellan Offensive
District of Oriente, Free Worlds League
11th September 3107
Even with the Federated Suns conquering five systems and striking at several more the Capellan Confederation continue their assaults on the District of Oriente striking at five further systems. As Oriente’s defences crumble the District of Regulus steps into the action repelling the Capellan Confederation in several systems. The Oriente forces take it one step further completely taking control over the Maritgues and Shenwan system from Oriente forces engaging the Fifth Oriente Hussars in both systems.
As heavy fighting continues on Minerton and Mansu-ni the Fifth Oriente Hussars withdraw from the worlds taken by Regulus while Duke Jonas Halas submits a formal request for the attacks on Oriente to be heard on Atreus by Parliament.
Khan’s Office, Raven Enclave
Famindas, Alpheratz
Raven Alliance
14th September 3107
“President Orton is here to see you my Khan.” The lower casteman said introducing the visitor Vir Sukhanov nodded and put aside the report he had been reading as his aide ushered in the older man. Prime Minister Orton was the elected head of the Civilian government that the Outworlders insisted on retaining as part of their alliance with Clan Snow Raven. In his 60’s and no longer quite as fit as he had been when he was an aerospace pilot the Minister had the respect of the people and was a savvy operator.
“Khan Sukhanov, thank you for seeing me.” President Rodger Orton said as he crossed the office, sitting down without being invited to. Technically he and the Khan were of the same position but the breech of protocol irked the Khan.
“President, thank you for answering my summons at such short notice, I will get to the point I know you are angry about the setbacks that we suffered in our conflict against the Combine…”
“The disaster we just suffered.” Orton interrupted his eyes hard, anger evident in his tone. “A dozen worlds under the heel of the Combine! A squadron lost! Entire military units gutted! Do you have any idea of how hard it is going to be to put this across to the people? People who are cut off from relatives…” He said composing himself for a moment “people who have lost relatives. This world and many of our most important are now a jump or two from Combine attack thanks to this debacle! And the casualties! Entire defence force units wiped out, hundreds killed, including my two eldest SONS!” Khan Sukhanov had the good grace to wince. He recalled that the Ministers eldest served upon the Thor.
“No that you’d understand that of course! And now we’ve got to find some way out of this mess!”
“Are you done?” Khan Sukhanov said, his voice level, cold. If this man was of the Clan he would have challenged him to a Trial of Grievance here and now, but he stayed his hand as much as it pained the Khan the Snow Ravens needed the Outworlds more than ever and that included this old warrior.
“I know of our military failings and I now wish to speak to you about the political fallout. I know that many of your Ministers are unhappy, and that the populace is also understandably angered and even afraid that the Dragon will strike again. Whilst we shall rebuilt our military strength, I want to discuss how to please the populace.”
“Remove the Combine from the three worlds closest to our core for a start.” Orton replied, his eyes still hot.
“Steps are underway regarding that, but I have other measures in mind too.” The Khan said he didn’t want to start another conflict with the Combine, not yet anyway; his Clan needed time to learn from the mistakes that had been made in their last conflict before their next.
“And what if you are challenged and defeated? Will these measures remain in place or be forgotten and cast aside?”
“Aff, I am aware of the anger within my ranks, if I am challenged then so be it but in the here and now I am prepared to take steps to improve our position.”
“Oh of course that’s the easy way out for you.” Ortan said angrily it was so simple in the Clan approach “I’ve got an election to fight and win…” He said an election that he was not convinced that he could defeat the newest member of the Avellar family Joshua Avellar son of Mitchell Avellar and rising star in the Alliance.
“A battle you will fight and no doubt come out victorious in. The people like you.”
“Hmph, you seek to flatter me Khan Sukhanov.”
“Neg, I am merely stating the truth.”
“So your ideas?”
“I was speaking with my Merchant and Science Factors and we believe that we can recover but in truth we cannot do it alone. We need your support, your assistance.”
“More labour caste inductees you mean?”
“Neg, we will work together to overcome this threat and walk from this moment of weakness stronger. And, side by side.”
“We will increase asteroid mining as well as scouting systems formerly belonging to the Alliance in the period prior to the Reunification War. Most were abandoned during the Succession Wars but could be made viable and ripe for exploitation.” Ortan suggested thinking about how they could improve their position with the Ravens.
“I have ordered my Factors to immediately cancel the division of technology between our and your industry it will take time but all of our people will be able to produce Clan grade technology in greater amounts. We will work as well to improve all of our troops equipment with modern equipment and better training. This will increase our fighting strength and redress most of the complaints from the volunteers about their equipment.”
This took the wind out of Orton’s sails slightly and he leaned forwards “Your Warriors won’t be happy with the decision.”
“If they disagree then they can challenge me and I will defeat them.” Sukhanov said raising from his chair “but this is not enough” he said looking at Orton I want to reorganize the Alliance military units into Clan Galaxies” Sukhanov said seeing Orton’s surprise “the disparity in organisation ends between the Outworlds and Snow Ravens we end decades of separation and truly become the Raven Alliance.” He said stepping back to the desk standing beside the table.
“And the Factors agreed to this?”
“Chief Scientist McLarren did, Factor Jonas did not, and his replacement was quick to change his stance on this.”
“I…see…”
“The Ravens…miss-stepped with our decision to keep our technology from you, it takes a long time for us to trust when your people have earned that trust in blood, then we should not hold back any more.” Khan Sukhanov said, pausing to take a sip from his cup of tea.
“We cannot be the Raven Alliance as long as the Snow Ravens remain in their enclaves cut off from the rest of our population.” Orton complained the Raven civilian and scientific population remained in their enclaves on Alpheratz, Dante and Quatre Belle or were restricted to their Floating Enclaves on other worlds isolated from the rest of the population.”
“We will resolve this isolation” Sukhanov promised “beginning on Alpheratz our enclaves here will be opened on a limited basis and I will encourage our population to mingle more with the rest of the Alliance. I also propose to give the Outworld volunteers their own DropShips, much like the System Rangers of old, and they will patrol the alliance and ensure its protection.” He said deciding to share his next plan with the Alliance leader “they will be coordinated by the Raven Watch and they will be paid in line with front-line warriors of our military. Factor Hobbs thinks that this change to the employment will boost productivity and result in a greater take of taxes. Of course the Labour Caste is always willing to accept Outworld volunteers and any will be tested and placed in a position that suits their abilities.”
“Why now?”
“Because we need to survive.” He admitted the Raven civilian population was nowhere near as large as it had been in the Homeworlds and their Touman was smaller. I do not wish to see my Clan extinguished any more than you do seeing your people under the Combines control. If these reforms are enacted, within six years, perhaps less, we will never have to worry about an outside threat again.”
“You know something Khan Sukhanov, if I’d known that the way to get you to bloody well listen was to come in here and yell at you… I’d have done it months ago.”
“We live and learn, of course where I my predecessor, he would have killed you myself for your insolence and your use of contractions. If you were of the Clans I would have already killed you myself. Your approach was. However, bold… direct, and with fire I would not expect from a man of your age.”
“Where I twenty five or thirty years younger I would meet you in battle if I had to” he said chuckling “but I am an old man whose fighting days are behind him. And regarding your predecessor, bah, he was a brute with all the leadership skill of a school yard bully. You are far wilier, and if you are challenged… I hope you win.”
Fire Mandrill Held Territory
Schuyler, Alberio Prefecture
Pesht Military District, Draconis Combine
20th September 3107
Natasha Faraday watched in satisfaction as yet another building came tumbling down before turning her 100-ton Kirghiz-G OmniMech slightly to the left and began destroying another building with her ‘Mech’s two large ER Lasers. Around her and all across the system, other Fire Mandrill Warriors were doing the same. All were intent on destroying the military industrial facilities in the system.
Natasha shrugged she knew that the Combine would hate her Clan for this and the Inner Sphere would want less dealings with her people because of it but it was a small price to pay all things considered. Khan Magnusson wanted her Clan to destroy any factory the Mandrills left behind she didn’t like that the Bears were dictating to her either but she needed Bear authority to travel through their space to return home. What would have been an annoying job soon became a relaxing experience, as her Mandrills released their pent-up stress from having to deal with annoying Dragons who continued to raid the area her Mandrills controlled
All things considered, their raid was about to be considered a success. The Mandrills had successfully traveled across the Inner Sphere, captured Schuyler, and as of earlier in the day finally withdrawn everything they had wanted from the system. Namely the Behemoth DropShip yards on the planet and both JumpShip yard docks over Schuyler which were damaged but still worth the trip. A very nice haul, she knew, but without the still-missing K-F drive plant that was all the raid was a nice haul.
“Fire Lead, Snarling Mandrill Actual,” the voice of Star Captain Ethan, the Warrior in charge of her supernova’s DropShip, piped through her radio.
“Go ahead,” she responded as she noted absently her targeted building exploding.
“RCJS Philandering Langur just reported in,” she noted the mirth in the other Warrior’s deep voice and quickly became interested.
“And what exactly did they report? Ethan,” she asked, playing the older Warrior’s game.
“Nothing beyond the usual,” she heard him relay back through the radio. “You know, empty asteroid here, another empty asteroid there. And, by the way, they found a Germanium-rich asteroid.”
“A Germanium asteroid!” she yelled in shock through the radio. By the yelp on the other end, she blushed, knowing she yelled too loud. “Sorry,” she grumbled out, still thinking of the find. Germanium was often used as the core of K-F drives.
“No worries,” the older man replied cheerfully through the radio. “I was already holding the headset away from me when you yelled.” Natasha blushed deeper. “I bet half the ship heard you through the radio,” he teased.
Natasha shook her head. “Have the RCJS Philandering Langur investigate that asteroid at once,” she ordered into the radio.
“Already done so, on your behalf,” he instantly replied.
“Good,” Natasha answered her long time confidant and friend. “Patch any and all reports from the RCJS Philandering Langur immediately to me, quiaff?”
“Will do,” he answered her. A second later, she heard a sharp click, signalling Ethan had ended the connection over his end.
She allowed her a big smile, for she hoped her Clan would finally grab what they and the Collection really needed the missing K-F drive plant. Abandoning the planet to the remaining Combine raiders It took the Mandrills another week to remove the crippled factory. It would likely cost the Mandrills a lot in trade to get the plant operational again once they returned back to the Rim Collection but Faraday had gotten what she wanted, what her Clan needed to survive, the ability to manufacture new JumpShips it meant that losing JumpShips in the future would not cripple her Clan’s transport capabilities. With all they wanted from the system the Mandrills withdrew before further DCMS forces arrived to take control over the system.
Clan Raids
Arcturus Theatre, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
25th September 3107
Despite much to celebrate in the Lyran Commonwealth the peace on the border is shattered as Clan Hell’s Horses raid Rasalgethi and Clan Coyote invade Fort Loudon. Both Clans deploy multiple Clusters supported by WarShips to each system and they quickly overwhelm the Third and Eleventh Arcturan Guards RCTs who were based in the systems once again the Elite Horde Clusters of the Fire Horse Galaxy lead the way for Clan Hell’s Horses. Between the two units over four regiments of BattleMech, Armour and Infantry are destroyed by the Clan forces before the remaining Arcturan Guards are allowed to retreat from the systems.
Fifth Yokosuka, DCS Kukhuri (Kyushu-class Frigate)
Gonthorn, Nova Cat Occupation Zone
28th September 3107
Space around the Nadir Point of the Gonthorn system was ablaze as the Draconis Combine attempted to liberate the world from Clan Nova Cat. Pilot Trevor Day breathed heavily as his Stinger LAM was dropped from its launch bay on board the DCS Kukhuri along with the rest of the Fifth Yokosuka. Their intelligence had been wrong they had expected to find a Nova Cat corvette in the system instead they had found a corvette and a Battle-cruiser. As Trevor’s LAM dropped into the black massive explosions rocked his Stinger as naval autocannon fire from the Nova Cat WarShip Santin West exploded around him he threw his fighter to the right and to the left trying to avoid the explosions behind him Naval Particle Cannons slammed into the front and side of the Kyushu-class Frigate behind him.
“Coriana Six to Reaper, Reaper do you read” he called out looking for his company commander as he continued to turn Trevor saw that Nova Cat fighters and DropShips were swarming the Kukhuri with still no answer from Reaper he tried a general call on the Draconis Combine frequency “Coriana Six to any SNLF unit come in!” He called out as a Nova Cat one hundred ton Hun OmniFighter dived past his Stinger Trevor turned to follow the assault fighter but immediately found the craft’s after pulse lasers slamming into his left wing melting the armour there. Turning away from the Hun Trevor turned straight into the Nova Cat’s wingman autocannon fire ripped through the space near the Stinger followed by further pulse lasers slamming into the side of the Stinger. “Corianna Six I need assistance repeat, I need…” Trevor’s call for assistance was cut short as a second burst of autocannon fire tore through the underside of the Stinger shattering the armour plating and shielding around the small fighter causing what was in the grander scheme of the battle a small almost insignificant explosion but one that was large enough to kill Trevor Day.
The young pilot was not the first to die in the battle and certainly wasn’t the last with the Nova Cats swarming the DCS Kukhuri and jamming the communications the battle was going from bad to worse rapidly. The Nova Cat Battle-cruiser was closing on the Combine Frigate pounding the smaller vessel with a relentless barrage of naval particle cannon, autocannon and laser fire splitting the hull open in several places. Less than thirty minutes after the Draconis Combine forces had entered the system the Fifth Yokosuka Special Naval Landing Force Regiment was decimated, the DCS Kukhuri was disabled and under the control of Clan Nova Cat and the rest of the Combine ground forces had been driven back.
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Looks like the Mandrills got what they came for, here's to them becoming powerful in the future. :)
Great update, I'm looking forward to more for just about everything that's going on in this update.
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Great Update, Dragon Cat!
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Looks like the Dragons are getting ripped a new one on multiple fronts.
Want me to design them a new warship?
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Looks like the Dragons are getting ripped a new one on multiple fronts.
Want me to design them a new warship?
Only if you find a mini that's worth the time ^-^ the Dragons will be fine honest O:-) the little Mandrill raid took a bunch of broken facilities the Combine hadn't fixed in years
But it does point to the Combines enemies there is blood in the water shame the Fedrats are punching their Capellan bag at the moment >:D
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Only if you find a mini that's worth the time ^-^
I'll keep my eyes open 8)
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Did the Mandrills actually get the KF drive factory.
Nice update O0
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Only if you find a mini that's worth the time ^-^ the Dragons will be fine honest O:-) the little Mandrill raid took a bunch of broken facilities the Combine hadn't fixed in years
Actually, I think I have something that'd fit perfectly >:D
I'll drop you a PM later to explain.
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Good to see the Mandrils managed to twist the Dragons tail. I can't imagine the Combine's going to be happy that their Bear neighbours just let someone do a smash and grab on their border though by coming through Dominion territory.
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snakespinner - yes but it's heavily damaged. The Mandrill's have something that will cause them problems for a little while.
marauder648 - the Combine does not need to pick another fight...
Vition2 - while you will see more from the previous storylines the beauty of this timeline is I can tell stories across the Inner Sphere and Periphery so let's take a trip.
And just to have a bit of fun regarding JA Baker's idea - I like it and it's happening ;)
I felt like writing today, first time in ages I've just felt like writing the whole day, so here's the next update
Raid
Milos, Kittery Prefecture
Star League Protectorate
2nd October 3107
For the last three weeks Milos had been raided four times by unidentified raiders using designs native to the Capellan Confederation and Federated Suns. So far the Star League Defence Forces defending the planet had been unable to pin down the raiders but today things would be different two days before Star League Early Warning Satellites had detected two DropShips entering the atmosphere. Instead of waiting for the raiders to attack combat commands from the Third Kittery Regimental Brigade, a unit locally known as Stone’s Revenants, and the First Milos Planetary Guard Regiment had been deployed across the planet waiting for contact. “Break, Break, Break contact with enemy units in sector fourteen” the call came across the radio alerting the troops who were waiting.
“Sir, we will be engaging soon remain near your protective detail” Major Leo Hayworth said over their private channel.
“I know what I am doing, Major, I will not get in the way” Protector-General Devlin Stone said from the cockpit of his customized Atlas II the leader of the Kittery Prefecture had insisted with personally facing off against the raiders.
“Contact to the east a pair of Men Shens!” Someone called as weapons fire was exchanged between the Third Kittery and the raiders.
“A pair of Emperors and a couple of Stealth designs as well” another MechWarrior called out. “We have aerospace fighters as well” he called out as two aerospace fighter’s strafed their position.
“That’s fine so do we. All units this is Hayworth hold down your sectors and open fire; our aerospace fighters will be in position in the next couple of minutes we just have to hold on…”
“This is our world, this is our home, they are not welcome here” Devlin Stone said as his one hundred ton Atlas II and its escorting lance moved forwards “we will hold this ground because we are the ones who live here, we are the ones who have shed sweat, tears and blood making this world what it is today.” He said opening fire on an enemy BattleMech with his Mech’s lasers and autocannon tearing the arm off of a nearby Phoenix Hawk knocking the lighter BattleMech to the ground. Moments later fire from another of Stone’s Mechs blew the Phoenix Hawk to pieces as autocannon, missiles and lasers tore the stricken BattleMech to pieces. Stone had not stopped and was now wading into battle against one of the Emperors even as SLDF aerospace fighters filled the skies driving the enemy craft from the air “if you don’t believe me believe them” Stone continued raising his BattleMech’s arms to the sky momentarily “our Angels are looking out for us!” He said as his BattleMech landed blow after blow against the Emperor while avoiding the return fire Major Hayworth watched in awe as the Atlas II literally danced its way around the enemy BattleMech doing far more damage than it was taking the Emperor pilot seemingly incapable of landing a proper hit on the Atlas II.
With Stone’s elite bodyguard lance with them the SLDF Battalion quickly repulsed the attack on Milos destroying all of the attacking BattleMechs and vehicles while some of the aerospace fighters escaped a majority were destroyed. Infantry teams checking wreckage after the battle found that none of the enemy pilots had survived the battle several had taken their own lives while others were completely missing leading the identity of the attackers a mystery.
AFFS Assaults
Sarna Commonality, Capellan Confederation
8th October 3107
With the Capellan Confederation still focused on the District of Oriente the AFFS High Command had ordered assaults to continue on the remains of the Sarna Commonality with the Fourth Capellan Defence Force, the Seventh Capellan Armoured Cavalry, the Heart of Courage Mercenary Battalion and the Fighting Tigers Combined-arms Regiment on No Return a prime target. Field Marshal Neela Black, the commander of the Sixth Davion Guards, entered the briefing room on board the WarShip FSS Bravery, a First Prince II-class Battleship, and looked at her fellow unit commanders. “Ladies and Gentlemen we will be striking at No Return the Capellans have no known capital units in the area but we are expecting assault DropShip forces so the Bravery will be providing us with an escort and fire support.” She began moving around the table activating a holographic display to show the world of No Return. “We are aware of four distinct commands on No Return all of which have been gearing up for an assault on Sarna attempting to wrest the world back from the District of Oriente. Considering Oriente’s current precarious position I think Sarna would fall quickly to a decisive assault.” She said many of them were surprised that the Federated Suns was not striking at Sarna instead of picking up worlds from the Confederation. “My Guards are probably the most inexperienced command here” she said looking around the other commanders “I can understand the question marks over their participation but the only way they will learn is to act with the best commands in the Federated Suns which I believe I am alongside.” She said attempting to make peace with the other commanders she needed them to understand that she knew her unit was not the best one involved in this operation and that she was in command purely because of her command’s status as part of the Royal Brigade of Davion Guards.”
“Marshal Steiner your Uhlans will lead the attack against the Fourth Capellan Defence Force with the Wild Geese in support.” She said looking at Richard Steiner and then to the oldest man in the room Wild Geese commander Colonel Dave Stutenroth who would be taking part in his final mission as commander of the Wild Geese.
“I will command the attack to the south of the city against the Seventh Capellan Armoured Cavalry with Marshal Rennard’s Armoured Cavalry.” She said pausing for a moment stepping around the table “we do not know the exact deployment of the mercenary forces on No Return but between our four commands we should be able to contain and destroy them. Other AFFS and mercenary commands will be striking at Sarmaxa, Randar and Relevow as we hit No Return. We are but one piece of this puzzle let our part not be out of place.”
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Three days later the AFFS units jumped into a pirate point in the No Return system and the DropShips carrying the ground forces immediately began their burn towards the planet’s surface. While their aerospace forces engaged the Capellans in near orbit Field Marshal Black ordered her Land Air Mech Battalion to go on ahead of the Sixth Davion Guards DropShips clearing the way for the rest of her command she suspected that Marshal Steiner would do the same with his own LAM Battalion. While these craft were not the best combat units they did have their uses.
The entire Battalion of LAMs landed several kilometres from the AFFS planned Landing Zone covering the rest of the distance in AirMech mode allowing them to skim the surface of the planet and avoid early warning sensors. This decision seemed to be the correct one as the LAMs arrived at the planned landing zones just as elements of the Seventh Armoured Cavalry were setting up ambush points the landing zone was an obvious one with a wide open space that aerodyne DropShips could comfortably land and aerospace fighters could land and refuel. Now in BattleMech configuration the LAM Battalion under the command of Major Joe Hulkenburg moved in on the unprepared Capellan defenders turning the landing zones into a combat zone.
Cutting to the right Joe Hulkenburg ducked his Phoenix Hawk LAM out of the way of an particle cannon volley from a Capellan Yao Lien returning fire with his paired extended-range medium lasers on the right arm and the centrally lined headhunter missile system. The lasers burned over the enemy BattleMech’s torso while the Headhunter slammed into the right arm exploding inside the armour causing further damage. Joe smiled stepping down on the jump jets launching his Mech over the enemy twisting in mid-air he heard the Headhunter achieve a lock and fired the missile even as the Phoenix Hawk fell landing he saw the missile explode against the enemy Mech’s rear armour causing more internal damage. This variant of the Phoenix Hawk was the first that Joe had piloted with the Headhunter and he loved the weapon, it was completely useless against units with anti-missile systems but units like this Yao Lien were at the weapon’s mercy. As the fifty-five ton enemy BattleMech twisted attempting to track Joe’s Mech he triggered his Mech’s medium lasers again burning into the Yao Lien’s leg armour causing more damage. The Yao Lien opened fire on the Phoenix Hawk with its particle cannons causing heavy armour damage to the LAM’s torso Joe ignored the damage launching his Mech into the air again triggering his lasers again this time penetrating the armour causing more internal damage to the enemy BattleMech.
More particle cannon fire struck the Phoenix Hawk but Joe was in motion striking out at the enemy BattleMech again suddenly fire tagged the Yao Lien from behind and above as another LAM struck the Capellan BattleMech ending its jump nearly right behind it. The Capellan MechWarrior obviously knew he was outmatched and attempted to jump clear of the battle but Joe’s Headhunter had once again achieved a lock-on the missile flew from the Phoenix Hawk to the Yao Lien in moments impacting with the Yao Lien as it took off slamming into the Medium BattleMech’s left thigh the internal explosion caused by the missile caused major damage to the top of the Yao Lien’s leg blowing the limb completely off the BattleMech sending its jump completely off course. The Yao Lien flew out of control through the air slamming into the ground more than two hundred metres away from Joe’s position the medium BattleMech slamming into the ground its right arm digging into the ground causing it to tumble across the ground disabled its pilot unconscious or dead.
In the air above the LAMs DropShips were coming in for their landing as aerospace fighters continued engaging their Capellan counterparts. “Alright people sound out your sectors how are we doing?” Hulkenburg called out stepping his BattleMech forwards looking around the Capellan forces that had been in the area were in retreat. Each of his company commanders called in reporting the same as what Joe was seeing the Landing Zone was secure. He had lost eight Land Air Mechs with three of their pilots killed in the action but the Sixth Davion Guards Land Air Mech Detachment had done well in its first live fire battle and their commander was very proud of their accomplishments.
Victory at the landing zone quickly leads to victory on the planet with AFFS and mercenary units charging across the planet’s surface pursuing the defenders wherever they headed. With the Battleship Bravery holding station over the planet there is no escape for any of the units on the planet. Field Marshal Neela Black allows the Fighting Tigers and the half dozen survivors from the Heart of Courage to leave the planet and seek employment elsewhere while impounding the Capellan survivors in a compound on No Return. Elsewhere the AFFS and mercenary units successfully drive back the defenders in the Sarmaxa, Randar and Relevow systems securing them for the Federated Suns. The heaviest losses occur in the Sarmaxa system but not through direct contact with the Capellan Confederation forces one of the Monolith-class JumpShips servicing the First Kestrel Grenadiers RCT hits a nuclear armed space mine in the system completely obliterating the JumpShip and its connected DropShips. The presence of nuclear armed space mines is a new and worrying step showing the lengths that the Capellan Confederation is willing to go to secure their remaining systems.
BattleMech Bay, Delta Galaxy Command
Phillip Drummond City, New Barcella
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
13th October 3107
Marching across the BattleMech bay saKhan Katrine Devalis approached Khan Canin Rosse who stood at the foot of a brand-new Dragon Cat II OmniMech an upgraded version of the original design fielded by the Clan. Personally Katrine preferred the Nova Cat as a heavy BattleMech but she knew the Khan preferred the faster sleeker Dragon Cat design and that he had championed the most recent upgrade gaining support from across the Clan. “Khan” she said stepping up beside him like her he wore a simple green utility uniform.
“Welcome home saKhan” the Khan said greeting her despite not looking away from the seventy ton humanoid OmniMech.
“Thank you” she said looking over the OmniMech “it looks good” she said deciding to be diplomatic.
“Power issues not getting to the right side of the chassis” he explained “they need to iron out the kinks before it will be ready for full deployment.” He said turning from the OmniMech “walk with me saKhan” he said heading deeper into the facility. “I was surprised that you returned to the Den.”
“I wished to discuss my people’s position my Khan” she said was they walked she noted many of the techs surprised by her presence even before she had taken some of the Clan to attack the Draconis Combine she rarely came to the Delta Galaxy Mechbay.
“Aff, you have done well and fulfilled your vision” he said congratulating her but he saw her confusion. “Your vision blooded our people and successfully crippled the Snow Raven Clan, something they will not fully recover from for a decade or more, you have done well. But now it is time to come home Quiaff?”
“Neg, my Khan, I do not believe I have fully fulfilled my vision.” She said surprising the older man she was glad she could still surprise him. “My vision had a Nova Cat knocked down before rising once more we have not been knocked down we have continued to rise.”
“You want to be knocked down Quineg?”
“Neg” she answered walking with him in silence for a moment “but there was more my Khan” she finally admitting that she had left something out “once the cat was knocked down another creature emerged one part cat, part bird emerged replacing it.”
“The creatures you liberated from the Combine on Algate, fulfillment of your vision.” Canin said irritated she had withheld information from him but still not seeing more to the vision.
“Neg, my Khan there is something more to it.” She disagreed and he needed to understand why “also my Occupation Zone gives us an opportunity to blood our warriors if you would give me experienced troops we could really push against the Combine.”
“To what end we cannot hold territory there for long. The Combine has vast resources to repel us the Ravens and Bears are both deeply entrenched. For us to invade further welcomes all three of them to turn on us.” He said finally “and we need troops here to defend the Den.”
“From what the Den has not been attacked since the Goliath Scorpion remnants and the Taurians attacked us.” She said “and the Federated Suns are more interested in attacking their Inner Sphere neighbours because they believe us toothless and not worth the attention.” She said showing her distaste for the Nova Cat’s current position.
“They do not attack us because they know their forces would not survive the encounter.” He said after a moment “the Federated Suns knows that to attack us on the border would invite the Combine and Confederation to act out of their place. We do not cause them problems and they have not caused us problems it is simple.” He said continuing forward “so you can blood all the troops you wish but a full offensive will not be happening.”
“Which brings me to my next point, you keep sending me the old or the very young I need our best troops to make an impact.”
“They are needed to defend the Den” he replied seeing where she was angling he would not release their best troops to her banner he knew that the core of the Nova Cat Touman was now still Warden based they had no wish to engage in open combat with the Inner Sphere instead they were content to continue the series of Clan based honour trials against the other Clans.
“Then I need the Legacy” she said taking a different approach “my WarShips need maintenance in the field I cannot afford to return them to the Den right after they engage in battle.”
“Legacy is needed at the Terminal Four construction point.” He said naming the next planned space station that would link the Nova Cat’s core territory with their expanded systems.
“Give me an inch!” She snapped turning to face him as a Shadow Cat OmniMech walked past them heading out of the bay. “I need the resources to fulfill my vision. I know you think that it is done but there is more out there I need to find.”
“Even if you do not like what you find?” The older man questioned
“Yes damn it” she admitted
“Then I will release the Bearclaw to your use.” He said naming their newest Legacy-class Yardship.
“Bearclaw? That is a Dominion ship.” She stated surprised by its acquisition.
“Not anymore” he said smirking “the Severn Leroux made an impact against the Bears” he said naming their flagship.
“I did see the ship was missing” she had believed the vessel was simply on patrol through the nearby systems but the Khan’s aggressive move surprised and impressed her a little. “Why deploy her to take the Bearclaw?”
“I believed you may need a Yardship. Sovereign is busy” he said “the Bears had a surplus and were willing to entertain our Trial of Possession.” He explained “the Severn Leroux is due for a refit so this will be her last combat for some time it is good she will leave service on a high.”
“You are going ahead with the refits?”
“Aff, our Anna Rosse-class vessels have been left behind by newer classes that have been debuted by the Inner Sphere and Clans they are all in need of refit to the Tetrach’s standard.”
“Anna Rosse II?” She asked about how they would define the class unlike the other Clans a “II” designation was not something Clan Nova Cat had tended to do as expected the Khan shook his head.
“Neg, while the origin of the design is in the Anna Rosse the Tetrarch is a new class of her own.” He answered it hurt to retire the Anna Rosse name but the new evolution of the design was too much for it to be described as a variant like previous refits. “We do not agree on much but look at what we have accomplished Katrine” he said raising his arms up to his sides “we have forty-nine systems in the Den, another nine that could be added when we are ready for them. And your occupation zone already has twenty-one further worlds.”
“I could have more if you released the troops I requested” she said testing the waters once more but her Khan ignored her and continued.
“Our WarShips are classed as among the best in the Clans while our ground forces have the highest percentage of OmniMechs in all Clusters of all of the Clans which includes the mighty Bears every single one of our Galaxies can fight the best our enemies can throw at them.” He said proudly Katrine Devalis was not convinced that was entirely correct but remained silent allowing the Khan his moment of accomplishment she needed his support to keep her own dream alive. “I think of where would could have been had we taken a different path and I am very proud of what we have accomplished.”
“We can do more” she said not completely agreeing with him or disagreeing
“Aff, we can together” he agreed “I will release additional resources to support you saKhan.” He finally said seeing her face brighten “two of Omega Galaxies newest clusters” he decided Katrine hid her disappointment quickly deciding that two additional clusters were better than nothing and if they were younger warriors then she could mould them without their Khan’s influence something she could live with.
Battle-line (Lyran Defence of Borghese)
Borghese, Arcturus Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
20th October 3107
“Screw this!” Morgan Christifori exclaimed as his Penetrator was struck by a series of long range autocannon strikes. The damage was negligible but annoying he knew the Horse warrior was trying to tempt him into charging which he wasn’t ready to do. Morgan’s company had been tasked with supporting the Lyran Commonwealth’s defence of Borghese as the Ninety-fourth BattleMech Brigade, which he had been attached to after Devil’s Rock, were deployed to assist the Lyran Commonwealth. Initially they had been here for training and orientation but since the Clan attacks on Fort Loudon and Rasalgethi they had been upgraded to a combat assignment the SLS Jericho had been sent to support them but she was currently in the Cumbres system helping the defenders turn away another Hell’s Horse attack. “Seventh command where the hell are your guards we’re getting pinked to death out here!” He snapped into the communication link.
“They’ve been held up by the Horses at Elizabeth’s Ridge the Horses have deployed extensive mines and are using Battle Armour ambush in ambushes. We’ve never seen them do this before.”
“Well listen up if you don’t get me some support you’re going to have sixteen dead MechWarriors out here. Get your ass in gear!” He demanded he was laying it as thick as possible but he needed support and it was the only way he could do it. “Alex move!” He suddenly screamed seeing the incoming ordinance flying through the air his warning came too late as Alex’s Huron Warrior was engulfed in dozens of long range missile impacts. Morgan looked away from the BattleMech as it turned awkwardly to the right and then collapsed to the ground. “Command that’s one less warrior for your to worry about saving.” He said dryly “com’on people hold it together we’ve got support on the way.”
“We’re going to be dead by the time they arrive” Adam commented his Barghest was battered but there wasn’t much Morgan could do the whole company was coming close to what battlefield analysts termed Combat Loss Grouping where units fell close together as they each accumulated terminal damage at the same time.
“Negative it’s not going down like that” Ralph said marching his Mauler forward launching two flights of long range missiles at the enemy. “Boss, let’s take it to them we fight better on the offensive.”
“They will rip us apart at range.” Morgan said triggering his lasers again causing damage to a Horse Balius QuadMech.
“They can’t take the hits, they are in as bad shape as us!” Ralph said triggering his missiles again combining fire on Morgan’s target knocking the Balius to the ground Adam added a gauss slug to the downed OmniMech ensuring it stayed down.
“I’m with Ralph boss”
“We all are” Lieutenant Ross Lawson commented off to Morgan’s right “we’re going to be ripped up either way Captain I’d rather take the fight to these Clan bastards than die through their pin prick attacks.”
“They want us to charge, they are trying to get us to leave cover” Morgan said he’d been watching the Horse attacks they were holding back hitting the SLDF company with their longest range weapons trying to force the Inner Sphere unit to close.
“But if we stay here we’re dead” his other Lieutenant, Alyson Jones, said her Bushwacker lacking its left arm and most of the armour on its torso. Morgan fired his two large lasers again knocking down a Kestrel Light OmniMech closing his eyes for a moment Morgan thought about the best course of action.
“Neg, we’re not doing it, if we are going to fight we are going to fight we are going to fight on our own terms” Morgan decided “break by lance head east for four kilometres set up another defence and then we head north and link up with the other units.”
“But the factory…” Lawson pointed out
“It’s abandoned bricks and mortar I honestly don’t give a crap about it.” Morgan decided hoping the Horses would finish their advance there. “Alyson get out of here now!” He said firing his lasers watching as the four BattleMechs that made up her company turned away from the line. He saw on sensors Ralph’s Mauler take another particle cannon his. “Ralph I want your lance out with Ross’ lance”
“Boss, no we stick together” Ralph protested triggering another salvo of long range missiles.
“You can’t keep up!” Morgan snapped Ralph’s Mech had taken too much damage and Morgan knew that even now it would struggle to get out of here alive. “Ross, detach Pharrell and Gwen they are moving out with me and Adam, Morgan is coming with you.” He said letting his subordinate know about the changes “go now.” He commanded breaking another lance away from the company leaving him with his own Penetrator, Adam’s Barghest, Pharrell’s Arcas and Gwen’s Cestus. Morgan quickly linked the four of them into a private comm. net “and then there was four.”
“I’m really honoured Captain” Pharrell said triggering his lasers at an enemy target “mind telling me why we got the short straw?”
“Because our Mechs can work together” Morgan said adding his lasers to Pharrell’s target blowing the enemy BattleMech’s left leg completely off. “We are going to go on ten second counts” he said struggling over the heat that had been building up. “Adam, Gwen I need you guys to put up a show hurt them for a ten second count and give me and Pharrell a chance to fall back. We will pull back and then turn to cover you on your count.”
“Boss ammo is going to become a problem” Adam noted as he fired another gauss slug at the enemy.
“I know but we’re not going to keep this up long.” He said “once we get to the rendezvous we’re all running for it.”
“Not very dignified for a Christifori” Pharrell pointed out noting Morgan’s name and how it would look.
“I’ll tell you a secret Pharrell first rule my father told me. 'When you get your ass is in a BattleMech cockpit I do everything to stay alive regardless if it looks good or bad' it doesn't look god but who gives a ****.” He said as a salvo of missiles go through his now empty anti-missile system and slammed into the BattleMech’s torso. “Live to fight another day we’ll be back.” He promised them today he was saving his men tomorrow he’d make the Horses pay “first count go!” He said both he and Pharrell fell back several hundred metres before turning firing their weapons allowing Adam and Gwen to pass them. Ten seconds later they did the same again covering several hundred metres pulling back. As Morgan had hoped the Horses settled for taking over control of the ammunition and parts factory instead of pursuing his forces any further.
The loss of the factory was not the only loss of the day more than half of the Seventh Commonwealth Guards had been lost in the battle including the unit’s commander killed when his company strayed through an un-cleared minefield. Following the battle the Lyran and SLDF units were called on to withdraw from the worlds and link up with the First Commonwealth Guards and the rest of the Ninety-fourth on Grunweld and prepare a counter-attack. Fortunately the Lyrans and SLDF had remained in control of Summit and Cumbres after the attacks there.
Raid’s In Force
District of Regulus
Free Worlds League
28th October 3107
The Magistracy of Canopus takes advantage of the District of Regulus being distracted in fighting against the Capellan Confederation forcing Free Worlds League forces off Obrenovac, Rushcegg and Saonara forcing them back into the District of Regulus. The Magistracy of Canopus push further against their neighbour chasing the retreating FWL units into the Ayn Tarma, Skvorec and Wisconsin systems with the two nations engaging in heavy combat on each world in the space around them. In the Wisconsin system a rare appearance by Magistracy Naval units forces Regulan forces to surrender air superiority but the Magistracy ground forces are unable to gain full control over the system.
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GO Horses!
>:D
Sorry... :-[ had to see some Horse love in action, even if they are the baddies. Is there a TO&E for this unit or just randomness...
TT O:-)
( Oh, good write up too! O0 )
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That was certainly a intriguing update!
Canin Rosse time seems to be coming up for a Trial of Position soon from way the Nova Cat saKhan keeps getting steamed with him.
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And just to have a bit of fun regarding JA Baker's idea - I like it and it's happening ;)
(http://fm.cnbc.com/applications/cnbc.com/resources/img/editorial/2013/07/25/100914539-Untitled-4.530x298.jpg?v=1374780976)
Excellent...
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Great update :) And yeah I think that the Nova Cats will either be seeing a new Khan in the none too distant future or needing a new saKhan.
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I think the Snow ravens will be needing a new Khan first
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I think the Snow ravens will be needing a new Khan first
Perhaps, but a lot of the real blame can be placed on the head of the sakhan. The Khan can't really get out of attacking the wrong targets first, but the more serious blow to Raven morale - their failure in space - can be pushed onto the sakhan, who is supposed to be "in charge" of the fleet.
Longer term thinkers will probably see the failure as a good thing, as it is forcing the Ravens to become less complacent in both their own industry and how they treat the Outworlders.
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Blame the saKhan what a cop-out
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Blame the saKhan what a cop-out
And totally Raven! :D >:D
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GO Horses!
>:D
Sorry... :-[ had to see some Horse love in action, even if they are the baddies. Is there a TO&E for this unit or just randomness...
TT O:-)
( Oh, good write up too! O0 )
They were faced off against one of the Horde Clusters - so fast, maneuverable front-line units but I didn't fully stat them out
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Not the biggest of updates or one of the most exciting but perhaps one of the more revealing in recent times. As always I welcome your comments and speculation.
The first part was initially the brainchild of James Tanaga it then went through the washing machine came out and went back in again before I was completely happy with it. The second part caused me some of the most trouble in this timeline to date - how to make it work? I went from one extreme to the other with that part while the last part shows what a "united" Free Worlds League is... its potential and its peril.
Enjoy
Clan Grand Council, Clan Hall
Andery, Tukayyid
Clan Territory Inner Sphere
5th November 3107
Khan Natasha Faraday stood to the side as she watched the holo-video of a Scientist doctor and nurse, both belonging to the Rasalhague Dominion treat the female Technician belonging to her Clan. Christy, a Freeborn of MechWarrior stock, lay on the hospital bed answering the Scientist’s questions. What happened to her would be avenged, she vowed silently to herself.
Assigned to the Disease Research Facility as part of Clan Fire Mandrill’s very small detachment, she had gone missing five weeks ago. Tortured, raped, starved, and the word ‘surat’ had been carved into her forehead with a rusty knife before finally the said knife had been plunged into her stomach. Oh yes, there would be a reckoning, she again promised herself.
The Technician was found being dumped off in the training grounds of Dinju Heights by a Rasalhague Dominion Trinary of Elementals in Rogue Bear battle armour during a training exercise against the Second Ebon Guard Cluster. The Ebon Guard and Dominion troops had interceded and captured the four dezgra who had left her there to die. Three Scientists and a Labourer, all belonging to Clan Coyote, they were the ones responsible for this atrocity.
Yet what the young woman had somehow had the strength to say before passing out chilled her to her core. Those four dezgra were Society cell members, or so the young Technician had informed her rescuers as she lay nearly dying of her wounds. That and they were wanting to know how to get through the Disease Research Facility’s security grid kept Natasha from leading her three clusters of Fire Mandrills she currently had in the system storming into Clan Coyote’s territory. But only just her people were tired from the battles on Schyler and there had to be a way for the Clans to resolve this.
The live holo-video was switched off. Turning her head, she saw the other Khans, both physically and in holo-image glaring at the two Coyote Khans. Both had the grace to look ashamed.
“Kindly explain what happened to this young Fire Mandrill by members of your Clan,” the Loremaster of the Clans Thomas Ward bit out as he waved to the now dead screen. “Else your Clan will be in for a reckoning and I doubt Clan Wolf will come to your assistance this time. In fact my former Clan will likely go for the jugular.”
“Agreed,” answered the Khan Amina Kerensky of the Wolves growled her anger clear to be heard.
The Coyote Khan, Carl Heller swallowed before answering. “I do not know what has happened,” he answered the Loremaster before turning to Natasha. “I truthfully do not know, Khan Faraday. But I will help to ensure whatever has happened will be answered harshly among our Warrior Caste.”
Natasha snorted, but the Khan Ragnar Magnesson of the Rasalhague Dominion answered for her. “What happened is that a Fire Mandrill Technician,” he waved his hand in the direction of the monitor on the wall, “was kidnapped and tortured for information on how to bypass the security around the Disease Research Facility. And instead of just being killed and let that be the end of it, they raped her, carved ‘surat’ into her forehead, and finally dumped her in the training area around Dinju Heights. All done by members of your own Clan.” The aging Freeborn Khan all but snarled at the Coyote Khan the recent trials between the Rasalhague Dominion and the Coyotes had been fought with honour he began to question that philosophy.
The Coyote Warrior paled significantly. “The Disease Research Facility-,” he began to ask.
“Additional security precautions have been taken,” Thomas Ward assured the Coyote Warrior. “But now I must ask a very pointed question. Your answer will either assure your Clan’s destruction or its very own survival,” the former Wolf warned the Coyote Khan.
“Ask,” was his simple reply.
“The Watch has found evidence of Society cells in the Inner Sphere and Periphery. Even the Mountain Wolves finally found one of their own with Society links,” he said speaking of the Exiled Clan in the Lyran Commonwealth the holographic images of their Khans included in this meeting because of the threat the Society possessed to them all they had thought the threat was contained in the Homeworlds, they were wrong. “Yet only the Nova Cats and Clan Coyote remains without known agents,” the Loremaster replied in kind before waving to Natasha, who proceeded.
“I find that very unlikely. Reports suggest in the Homeworlds that elements of the Society formed within Clan Coyote,” she paused, smirking at the now deathly pale face Carl Heller in front of her. Her clan had fought its way clear of the Homeworlds she had thought those days were behind them.
“Dezgra” the Coyote Warrior replied remarking about the Coyote traitors and most likely the Mountain Wolves neither of the Mountain Wolf leaders spoke up.
“Aff, they are dezgra to the majority of the Clans but still originated within the Clans” Thomas Ward rebuked him trying to get off the topic of the Mountain Wolves he knew the Hell’s Horses, Wolves and Jade Falcons were just as angry the Exiled Wolves were here. “Khan Faraday called for them to be included in this emergency meeting to ensure everyone was aware of the threat the Society possess to us even here in the Inner Sphere. We are here to discuss the guilt of Clan Coyote in these proceedings and the appropriate response.”
“Aff,” Carl Heller answered.
“What is the exact nature of the Society cells within Clan Coyote? Khan,” Ragnar Magnusson asked, staring into the Coyote Warrior.
The Coyote Warrior visibly sighed before answering. “The Watch have identified several additional cells.” He admitted having been further shocked by the findings his operatives had made.
“Are operations ongoing against them, quiaff?” queried Thomas Ward from his table.
“Aff,” the Coyote answered back. “There is a strong movement in the Warrior Caste to annihilate the vermin. Unfortunately we have found that many of their cells are based in populated areas our operations have been limited.”
“So you turn a blind eye to the Society when it suits you!” Ragnar Magnusson roared.
“When it is either that or our Clan’s destruction, yes!” roared back the senior Coyote Khan. “We have no other choice! My Clan is just trying to survive,” he added desperately.
“Massive collateral damage is not what any of us want to see.” Khan Canin Rosse of the Nova Cats said speaking up he too communicated with the council via Hyper Pulse Generator and was represented by a hologram standing where the Nova Cat table should be. Heller was glad to see at least one of the Khans spoke sense but he noticed that several others looked angry at the Nova Cat Khan’s words “these vermin as you call them must be destroyed but it must be done correctly.”
“Correctly” Jana Pryde agreed “it is the Coyotes fault for allowing them to breed if collateral damage is required then so be it.” Khan Jana Pryde said angrily turning on the Nova Cat Khan “and you Clan Khan Rosse should we be turning our eyes on them for the Society?”
“Turn your eyes towards us all you like Khan Pryde” Rosse said his hologram stepping towards Pryde “but beware if you look too long those eyes may be clawed out.” He warned the young Khan of the Falcons loosed surprised by the instant turn in the Nova Cat’s attitude gone was the old warrior and in his place was a vibrant ready warrior.
“Having Clan Coyote turn on these cells with reckless abandon would see the Clan destroyed. Is this how we will deal with these threats now?” Rosse said breaking away from the Jade Falcon leader looking at the other Khans “the last Clan to turn on its civilian population was destroyed by the Inner Sphere.” He warned “the Homeworlds Clans have been destroyed in the fighting there. The Sphinx Raptors were destroyed for being associated with the Society…” He said looking around the other Clan members.
“Aff,” Natasha answered back with an almost feral look at the Coyote table Heller refused to look at her ashamed of what his Clan had done. “I remember, for it was my own Clan that did the deed.”
“My point is originally the Clans numbered twenty.” Khan Canin Rosse said looking around the remaining Clans “our current number is nine less than half the Founder created remain.” He said intent on shaming the remaining Khans he knew that they were all responsible for their own Clans but showing them how far their culture had diminished would hopefully make them see reason.
“And if there was an ilKhan there would be only one.” Jana Pryde shot back finding her voice.
“And how successful have you been with that?” Rosse challenged turning back on Pryde putting the younger woman in her place “Kerensky’s Wolves are the closest to Terra and even then they have been incapable of closing closer than fifty light years on Terra.” He said he saw Amina Kerensky’s angry expression but she said nothing knowing it was true the Wolves could not push towards Terra without opening their flanks to attack they needed the other Clans to keep the dream of being an ilClan alive. “We need Clan Coyote to stand with us, we need our culture to survive,” he said passionately his words resonating with the other Khans “and we need to eliminate the Society completely here and at home.” He said “Khan Heller, I bid the Nova Cat Watch to assist you in removing the Society the correct way.” He said biding the three Clusters that made up the Nova Cat Watch.
“It will still cause heavy damage…” Heller began before Rosse cut him off.
“That is the price your Clan will pay” Canin Rosse said angrily the Nova Cats would also be taking payment for what the Coyotes had done but that would be dealt with in time.
“If a Clan cannot stand alone then it should not stand at all” Ragnar Magnesson said recalling the decision the Grand Council made when the Smoke Jaguars faced destruction. “I was not there but I believe it is our Culture’s way the strong stand the weak fall.”
“And it would benefit your Clan” Teresia Cooper of the Hell’s Horses replied glancing at the Ghost Bear Khan “your Dominion would like to bid for the absorption of the Coyotes Quiaff?”
“A trial that you would like to oppose, quiaff?” Magnesson asked
“Enough” Thomas Ward said getting the attention of both Khans “the absorption of a Clan is something that can only be completed with the full support of this council.”
“Which I believe neither Clan Sea Fox nor Clan Nova Cat would agree to” Khan Evangeline Clarke said exchanging a glance with Khan Canin Rosse who nodded his thanks for the support.
“Clan Mountain Wolf would like to bid a Cluster of our best warriors to join your mission Khan Rosse” Khan Evan Kell said speaking up for the first time taking attention off the proceedings. “Many of you do not class us as a Clan but we wish to defend the culture that birthed our Clan and honour those that came before us. Phelan Kell, my predecessor as leader of the Mountain Wolves…”
“Dezgra” Amina Kerensky of the Wolves muttered looking at Evan Kell under her breath Canin Rosse was about to speak but Kell spoke up first.
“…required of me to be a student of history as I understand it unlike the Smoke Jaguars the Coyotes have not requested assistance with this issue but it has been offered to them as such this Council has already violated the rule of a Clan standing alone or passing.” He explained gaining an angry glance this time from Khan Jana Pryde. “Khan Rosse my offer of assistance stands my Wolves will assist in ending this Society threat.”
As the hours of debate continued all of the Clans, spurred on by the offers from Clans Nova Cat and Mountain Wolf agreed to add forces to Canin Rosse’s forces giving him a Cluster from each of the Clans. Loremaster of the Clans Thomas Ward looked at the leader of the Nova Cat Clan. “Khan Rosse, the task of destroying the Society rests with you are you ready to command these brave warriors?”
“Aff, I agree” Canin Rosse said looking at the Coyote leadership “I will pursue and destroy the Society influences in our culture. Clan Coyote will take damage this is unavoidable but I will ensure that no Clan warrior creates more collateral damage than is required.”
“I agree to these terms” Khan Heller said almost redundantly accepting that his Clan would pay a price for bringing the Society to the Inner Sphere he slowly turned to face the Fire Mandrill Khan, she continued. “As surkei for your Technician, I offer Clan Fire Mandrill control over the system of Diosd, the population and resources that reside in that system.”
“You believe my Clan can be bought!” Natasha exclaimed in anger trying not to show how pleased she was to gain control over the system.
“We do,” the Coyote saKhan Sepp Heller replied his almost mechanical voice cutting through the air. Heller had been injured when he was young and his voice box had been replaced by a synthetic model it had not affected his abilities as a warrior however. “After all, were you not bought out by that periphery nation you now are so protective about? The one you have illegally allowed to give technology to despite past Grand Council agreements.”
Natasha shook in fury as she noticed many of the Khans now turned their glares to her she knew that none of them liked how the Mandrills had survived but she also knew the Sea Foxes and Nova Cats had done the same in the past. She chose her next words with care, less her Clan be targeted. Well played, Natasha mused to herself grudgingly. “I accept your surkei on behalf of my Clan, saKhan.” She answered back before moving to her Clan’s own table, where her own saKhan sat, shaking his head at her.
“Loremaster Ward, my Nova Cats will be in position to assist Clan Coyote by May at the latest. I suggest that Clan Coyote continue to target the cells they are able to without collateral damage for now herding the remaining members of the Society into a smaller number of targets. We will finish them off.”
“Khan Heller, you will with immediate effect end assaults on the Inner Sphere” he said glancing at the Hell’s Horses Khan “your joint offensive is over by decree of this Council.” He said looking back at Heller “instead you will continue operations against the Society, the Ebon Guard will be deployed to several of your systems all trade will be funneled through these systems and vetted by the Ebon Guard to ensure no destructive elements escape your territory.”
“That will cripple us economically!” Carl Heller stated angrily barely containing his anger the offensive against the Lyrans had given his warriors an outlet for their frustrations now other Clans would operate in their territory and his Clan was restricted to combat against their own people. He looked at Khan Teresia Cooper of the Horses and saw her anger he knew that the only way to keep her Clan from attempting to absorb his own was to attempt to continue at least some of their operations against the Lyran Commonwealth despite the orders of the Council.
“It is that or you face my Mandrills in Trials of Combat!” Natasha Faraday called out angrily finding her voice once more bringing Carl Heller from his thoughts he looked at the Fire Mandrill Khan and then to the hologram of Nova Cat Khan still stood in front of him. He glanced at saKhan Sepp Heller before back at the Loremaster of the Clans “Loremaster, we will cooperate.” He said finally.
“Khan Rosse, good hunting to you.” Loremaster of the Clans Thomas Ward finally said Khan Rosse nodded his agreement.
Sixteenth Whitting Conference
Unity City, Terra
Star League Protectorate
11th November 3107
First Prince Burton Davion surveyed the other leaders of the Star League and was not impressed with the turn out. Due to the recent fighting between Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces and the armed forces of Clans Coyote and Hell’s Horses, who had now pushed onto Kelenfold and Blue Diamond, Archon Jessica Steiner had refused to attend instead sending Duchess Ilse Kelswa-Aten of Skye in her place. With heavy fighting still occurring in the District of Oriente Free Worlds League leader Captain-General Joseph Marik had also refused to leave the Free Worlds League instead attending an emergency session of the Parliament sending Duke Robert Brett-Marik in his stead. With the Federated Suns still generally at peace both Burton Davion and his with Sterling and his parents had attended the conference on Terra enjoying the break from the normality.
Burton felt bad for the other houses who faced conflict internally and externally but he could not forgive them for not attending this conference the Star League gave them support on many levels failing to attend was not the way to gain support from the council. This had worked in the Federated Suns favour neither the Lyran Commonwealth or Free Worlds League were eligible candidates and through promised aid both nations had been convinced to vote in favour of the Federated Suns with the Draconis Combine voting for the Star League Protectorate. With the Federated Suns and Star League Protectorate nominated the Taurian Concordat and Magistracy of Canopus had abstained from voting with the Federated Suns and Star League casting votes for themselves the Federated Suns had once more been confirmed as holding the position of First Lord.
The First Prince stood and looked around the council for a moment before speaking “I am honoured that you would choose the Federated Suns to lead this Star League but I believe I am the wrong man to become First Lord. Should the Federated Suns be attacked I would do as Archon Steiner and Captain-General Marik have done and defend my home.” He said “however there must be a First Lord which is why I nominate the one man who I believe can look beyond his loyalty to his home nation and look to the good of the whole Star League.” He said turning slightly looking at his father who had sat behind him at the Federated Suns table “four term First Lord, Victor Steiner-Davion.” He said looking at Victor as he raised from his chair and walked out of the room without saying a word to his son.
---
Several hours later Victor stood looking angrily at his son behind them both Victor’s wife Danai Centrella-Davion and Burton’s wife Duchess Sterling Davion watching their husbands. “I RETIRED!” Victor shouted angrily looking at his son.
“The Star League needs you!” Burton snapped back “you know fine that without strong leadership the Star League will fall again and with that the Clans will invade once more!”
“That isn’t my problem you are First Prince they voted for you” Victor said turning towards Danai “this is supposed to be our time.” He said to his wife
“It is your choice” Danai said taking a step towards him “and I will stand with you” she said smiling as Victor turned back towards his son.
“Our argument is mute the other leaders will not agree to this…” he began
“They already have” Burton said silencing him “even Bannister Cameron agrees with this course of action and is willing to have you both as guests on Terra.” He said “I have informed the Governor that a combined arms Regiment of the Davion Guards and some of my best DMI bodyguards will be with you.” He promised them both he would not have Cameron believing that Victor and Danai could be used against him in the future.
“You have everything figured out?” Victor wondered just how long his son had been thinking up this little plan.
“Well I did up until the point where you said no” his son admitted “the Star League needs you” he said glancing at his mother “it could use you both. The Protectorate has looked inward since Bannister took control they see a Cameron sitting in charge and think that the old Hegemony’s glory days are returning. You are known across the Inner Sphere and will be accepted by these worlds as someone who understands the need for unity instead of the infighting that caused the Succession Wars…” Burton said he believed that his father was the only man who could stop the Star League Protectorate becoming a new Hegemony which looked at itself first and the rest of the Star League a distant second. He knew that Bannister Cameron would not like the presence of a First Lord on Terra but not under his control but he also knew the former General would accept it and that he was honourable enough that he would not try anything against his parents.
“You have me” Victor said looking at his wife “you have us.” He said embracing his son he whispered in the man’s ear “you are a better man than think you are not many would give up what you have or go to the lengths to help others.”
“You have” Burton replied reminding his father of his glory days during the Clan War.
Three days later Victor Steiner-Davion is officially confirmed as the next First Lord of the Star League Defence Force. The appointment is welcomed in most parts of the Inner Sphere who see Victor as someone who has looked out for the whole Inner Sphere and has warred to protect it and not to dominate like his predecessors. This news filters through the Inner Sphere as Archon Jessica Steiner successfully leads the defence of Kelenfold destroying two Clan Hell’s Horses WarShips and two clusters of ground forces in the system. Unfortunately this success is not repeated in the Blue Diamond or Fatima systems where the First and Eleventh Arcturan Guards RCTs are driven out of the system by Clan Coyote with the survivors from the Eleventh folded into the First to keep at least one of the commands active.
Parliament
Atreus City, Atreus
District of Marik, Free Worlds League
22nd November 3107
Duke Jonas Halas stood in front of the united Free Worlds League Parliament looking around the representatives of their nation. “People of the Free Worlds League my District of Oriente come to you at a time of great need today the Capellan Confederation are at Oriente’s gate ready to burn it down and land troops on my home world. And yet while my people fight for their very lives trying to defend their homes the District of Oriente move on our systems.” He said angrily looking over at the Regulan leader.
“Our nation is simply moving to support Oriente against the Confederation.” Prince Lester Cameron-Jones said calmly looking around the Parliament “Regulus has the power to control the aggression from the Confederation” he said “we will turn them back.”
“We do not need your help” Halas said looking back at Cameron-Jones “I agree we do need weapons but we do not need you to take our territory. We need support not conquest.”
“A national peacekeeping force could solve these problems” Captain-General Joseph Marik “controlled by this parliament a force equipped with the best weapons that the Free Worlds League can produce could support all nations without taking territory.”
“A federal force has been done before and does not work. Each district state of the Free Worlds League must stand or fall a weak link will destroy this nation we have rebuilt.” Prime Minister Ledford said he was proud of his District of Bowang and how it stood by itself without assistance from the other nation states. “We may not be as strong as others but we can take care of ourselves. We do not need Parliament directing troops inside our borders.”
“I agree to bring forces that are not controlled by the leader of the district would cause more trouble.” Duke Raymond Brewer-Cameron-Jones of Lesnovo said “this parliament was designed to support this whole nation not create a new army.”
“And so this Parliament turns its back on troops from one district fighting against another?” Jonas Halas said angrily “it allows Regulus to gain a numerical advantage over all other states and it will allow Oriente to die?” Halas said looking around at the other system leaders “if this is Parliaments decision then perhaps this nation state should be broken once more!”
“No-one is saying that” Captain-General Joseph Marik said “what they are saying is that we must all be strong. You say you need equipment and troops Duke Halas? The District of Marik will answer this call.” He promised “I will not see Oriente fall to the Capellans or to anyone else” he said looking around the room “and I will not allow this Parliament to break. The national peacekeeping force is for now put aside but I will ask you all to continue to consider it as these months progresses when your worlds are threatened by outsiders think about what this type of force controlled by this Parliament could do.” He said finally he would continue to push for Parliament to have its own military forces he would continue to try to hold this nation together and he would try to support Oriente despite Regulus best efforts to see the state gone.
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O0 nice update! Laying additional ground work for more stories!!
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Excellent stuff and excellent ground laying too :) Something tells me that the 'yotes JUST avoided an absorption/annihilation shaped bullet.
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wow, that that a lot foreboding of things to come. The Star League looks like its getting setup for major problem in the days ahead by the Clans, as the Clans try go varminting of the evil Society cells. For group of scientists (or alleged) they certainly don't have tight controls over their members. Attacking members of other castes and trying to come up some other evil scheme seems very stupid. You think they'd know better keep their members in line or know the meaning of operating in silence. Now the hammer coming down, though i don't know how well effective it will be, since they need an effective Watch to weed out people in hiding.
Star League Protectorate doesn't seem to be on steady grounds, with it's member states distracted. Poor Victor. ;D
Should be certainly be interesting reading coming up!
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marauder648 - the Coyotes are in a little hot water...
Wrangler - the Clans have been exposed to the Inner Sphere for almost 60 years so their Watch isn't too bad
Glad you enjoyed it here's an Intelligence Report
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=56107.msg1289674#msg1289674 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=56107.msg1289674#msg1289674)
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Now that the forums are working again, and with absence of anything new to read, time to end 3107
My thanks to James Tanaga for the Rim Collection part and marauder648 for the Sea Fox part... and please all welcome Clan Spaniel to the AU ;D
MIIO/DMI Debriefing
Castle Sandoval, Robinson
Crucis March, Federated Suns
2nd December 3107
After weeks of checking and double checking of financial and communication records House Davion’s MIIO and DMI organisations confirm that Mordecai Sandoval was responsible for the murder of Tancred Sandoval. Duke Jerome Sandoval is once again confirmed as the leader of the Draconis March until Tancred’s son Duncan Sandoval decides if he wishes to lead.
Under the instruction of Jerome Sandoval the DMI put in place a plan to arrest Mordecai Sandoval on the planet of Lima. Unfortunately the DMI arrive on the planet late as Mordecai Sandoval, his Robinson Defenders and the Fourth Robinson Rangers LCT had already left on an illegal strike against the worlds of Royal attacking the Sixth Ghost Regiment on the planet. With overwhelming firepower Mordecai ensures that the entire Sixth Ghost Regiment is destroyed in the fighting.
RCS Cassandra
All Dawn, Rim Collection
Periphery
11th December, 3107
On board the small station’s gravity deck which overlooked All Dawn and the repair site Matthew Davion leaned against the wall; arms against his chest, as he watched out the observation window as the RCS Providence begin its slow burn to All Dawn’s primary jump point. Having finished its repairs and modifications to the RCS Cassandra, he knew the Fox-III Refit Ship was now on its way into Lyran space to Triesting where the battered hulk of the LCS Adam Steiner lay adrift, but salvageable, the Rim Collection had agreed to help the Lyrans salvage the Hyperion-class Heavy Cruiser as part of far a far larger trade agreement.
He turned his head to the side, noting a newcomer come to his side. It was Merchant saFactor Casey Horn of the Steelsoul Khanate. He was instantly on his guard, less he misspoke around her. “Respectable work in getting something out of this Dart,” the tall female Merchant remarked looking at the vessel through the window.
Matt turned his head back to the observation window, careful to hide his smile. “You mean your Clan is interested in her, quiaff,” he asked.
“Aff,” the Clan Merchant bit out. “It would make an excellent ship in our fleet. If I did not know it better, I would say you designed it for my Clan in mind.”
“How so?” Matt queried the Clan woman. He already knew the answer, but played along.
She began as she matched his pose next to him. “The twelve docking collars and respectable cargo space for one. Thirty kilotons of fuel for another.”
“Do not forget the integrated medical facilities, nor her integral fighter complement,” he joked.
“So you did redesign her for us?” she queried.
He shrugged in response. “We noticed the Clans generally lacked dedicated support ships for their fleets.” He said the Bears, Horses, Ravens and Nova Cats all had yardships but none had ships that could carry a variety of supplies instead relying on supply DropShips. “She might be a jack of all trades, but she should do just fine in that regard.”
He caught her shadow nodding at his reply. More than fine,” she purred. “Will your government agree to a Trial of Possession for her,” she finally queried.
“Neg,” he quickly answered her. “And I doubt my government will license the design either.”
Casey huffed. “Then only for trade, quiaff?” she asked.
“Not until we can manufacture more of her class,” he replied. “Unless you have spare Darts lying around?” he conceded.
“That will be decades!”
“Our plan is to begin building warships in eight years,” he commented mildly.
“Still eight years!” Casey sighed. “Is there anyway for you to possibly expedite it?”
“Possibly with your Clan’s support, but I refuse to promise anything until I see the state of the JumpShip yards when they arrive, from what I have been led to believe they were not in the greatest state before our forces began to break them down.” He answered the Draconis Combine had not cared to repair the facilities and the Mandrills had to quickly break them down when at Schyler leading to further damage.
The Sea Fox merchant cursed. “You know you are sitting on a gold mine, quiaff?”
“Aff, but for now, there is not much the Collection or the Mandrills can do,” he informed her.
He heard her sigh and smiled, knowing she had taken the bait. “I will speak with the other leaders of my Khanate and to Khan Clarke,” Casey conceded. “No promises.”
Matt nodded. “None expected.”
He noted she turned to leave and then paused. He turned his head and scrunched his eyebrows as she turned back to him. “What is the story of the name change by the way,” Casey queried.
Matt chucked, figuring out why she was perhaps confused. “When we first began our redesign of her, we meant her to be a true warship it was only after we properly looked at her we knew we lacked the capability to turn her into a true warship. Instead of the name Wildfire we decided to honour Khan Cassandra Faraday with a vessel that could support our Clan well into the future.”
Casey nodded to herself. “What type of warship if I may ask?”
“Now that would be telling,” Matt remarked, winking at her. Casey shook her head before turning away. Matthew Davion heard something about incorrigible freebirths and laughed, knowing it was aimed for him.
SLDF Base of Operations
New Bealton, Odessa
16th December 3107
Captain Morgan Christifori entered the office of Lieutenant-General Amy Benton commander of the SLDF unit’s on the Jade Falcon/Hell’s Horses border and stood to attention in front of the seated Colonel. “Reporting as ordered Colonel” he said announcing himself.
“Welcome to Odessa, Captain” she said standing up looking at him “at ease Mr Christifori” she said stepping around the table. “You have done well against the Clans thus far Captain but the Hell’s Horses most recent attack on Summit has shown their desires and what they are willing to risk to succeed.” She said Morgan nodded he had heard of the Hell’s Horses attack on his burn towards Odessa four days before an entire Galaxy of the Horses Horde Clusters had attacked the Third Commonwealth Guards RCT on Summit supported by two WarShips. The Horde units were built around speed while the Guard units were all old heavy and assault designs it was inevitable that Summit would fall.
“The Horses have one of the strongest Toumans” Morgan said “and their attacks are bringing them closer to Odessa and Arcturus.” He surmised “should they capture either it would be a severe body blow to the Lyran Commonwealth.”
“You are correct Captain” she said rising from her chair “which is why the High Command have directed that we do more striking behind enemy lines disrupting their supplies and command structure.” She explained Morgan nodded it was about time the SLDF took action action against the Clans, the enemy it was created to fight. “Unfortunately they cannot spare me another brigade for another three months when the Second Sirus Regimental Brigade will fully mobilize and join us” she explained her own Ninety-fourth Royal BattleMech Brigade was spread over Odessa, Grunweld and Garrison. “Instead I’ve been charged with supporting the Lyrans with this brigade.” She said Morgan thought she was being a little melodramatic the Ninety-Fourth itself had five Regiments three were made up of BattleMechs each with an attached artillery battalion while the remaining two were one elite jump infantry and an entire regiment of Battle Armour troops. All in all one of the strongest ground force Brigades the SLDF fielded, if they could concentrate against their enemy. “So instead I have had to improvise” she said moving over to a large table off to the right of the office Morgan followed her over standing a respective distance from the table his arms clasped behind his back. “This is the Horse border” she said indicating to the holo-map displayed just on top of the table the planet’s relative positions to each other hovering in space. Odessa, Grunweld and Garrison glowing gold showing the elements of the Ninety-fourth and their readiness “if we abandon these systems the Lyrans will be exposed” she said looking at Morgan “I can’t take our units forwards against the Horses but I can deploy elements off planet to strike the Horses. Companies and Battalions of our best trained and equipped troopers willing to take risks and if required make the ultimate sacrifice.”
“I understand sir” Morgan said stepping forwards “with a couple of extra Mechs and their pilots my company stands ready to serve.” He said confidently General Benton smiled before looking back at the table.
“I think not, Captain, your company cannot make enough of an impact alone.”
“With respect, General, my company will get the job done and everyone of us knows our duty and what is required of us we are part of a greater plan what comes, comes.” Morgan Christifori said making it clear to the General that he knew that he was just another officer and that his name meant nothing in the greater scheme of things.
“I know you are ready to serve Morgan” she said using his first name “and your people have done well but alone they cannot make enough of an impact.” She said “however as part of a greater Battalion which had the right commander they could do something special.”
“We are ready to serve” Morgan said “sir, I knew my independent company couldn’t last forever, I can take orders.”
“I am sure you could” she said “but who says you should?” General Benton asked a smirk crossing her lips as she shut down the holo-map revealing a pair of Major rank insignia pips. “Major Christifori you are out of uniform” she said stepping away from the table leaving Morgan to collect the new insignia before she continued “I’ve pulled Nico Cardin-Goyer and Paulina Kopec’s companies back to Odessa along with some new recruits we’re reinforcing your company and with a squadron of aerospace fighters they will form your new Battalion which has been designated the Ninety-fifth Special Operations Battalion of the Special Armed Service Division.”
“Blackhearts” Morgan Christifori whistled surprised by the designation.
“Don’t let it go to your head Major” she warned him “you’re still under my command.”
“Yes, General, we won’t let you down what is our target?”
“Bountiful Harvest you leave at the end of the month when your transport arrives. Good luck to your Major and the Ninety-fifth.”
Titanic (Sea Fox-class ArcShip)
Beta VII, Sea Fox Occupation Zone
Clan Occupation Zones
21st December 3107
At just shy of two million tons the Titanic lived up to her name. What had once been a Potemkin class assault cruiser was now a mobile home, factory and habitat for thousands of Clan Sea Fox military and civilian personnel. Her outer hull bulged where DropShips had been permanently attached to her hull, whilst hydroponic bays dotted her flanks and spine no longer a WarShip this vessel was a colony that moved between the stars. The massive ship sat at the centre of a fleet of DropShips and fighters, patrolling round the space going massive leviathan like small fish following an ocean going whale. But this titan was not alone, for another beast of the black swam alongside her, the Terror of the Deep a Nightlord II class battleship and flagship of Clan Sea Fox.
Her passengers had already been sent across to the Titanic and the two giants now cruised a few hundred meters apart as the conference started. Every Khanate had sent their representatives, and it was here that financial futures would be discussed, details on profitable markets, areas of growth and shrinkage and areas to be exploited as well as new designs showcased.
On the vessel’s largest gravity deck as the previous presentation about a planned assault transport VTOL came to an end Sub-Chief Scientist Katya stepped up and smiled. Around her she could see dozens of other Sea Fox personnel, Merchants, Sub-Factors, Scientists of all ranks as well as Warrior-Merchants, those bold profit and market seekers who would traveled across the Sphere with minimal support seeking smaller but none the less profitable markets with nothing but their own skill and acumen to support them. Beyond the gathered audience here there were hundreds more throughout the Titanic and on board the nearby vessels listening into this broadcast.
A light on the big holo-projector in the centre of the room came on and that indicated that it was her time to start speaking. She’d won the right to give this presentation after winning a Trial where she and her competitor had been tasked with ‘fixing’ the Great Depression of Ancient Terra, or at least lessening its impact based on historical information that was available to the time period. Katya had found the competition interesting from a historical point of view as well as a challenge she’d learned how to think like the traders of the past and face their challenges with the resources that they had. Their papers, reviewed by the Merchant Factor of the Bloodscent Khanate himself saw her declared the winner. So taking a deep breath Katya nodded and began.
“Ladies and Gentlemen, I give to you today our workings from the last nine months. Whilst other Clans and the Spheroid houses are now producing greater numbers of Assault DropShips or Pocket WarShips it is a market we have yet to move into. And there is a market for such vessels. The Dominion is looking at producing their own design but that is caught in a bureaucratic snarl-up with their firms bickering about who would produce what. The Wolves have their Isegrim but lack the facilities to produce them at a useful rate. The Hells Horses also have a want for an assault ship that is not the decades old Noruff design. And the Ebon Guard would also desire an Assault vessel for their own uses in the defence of Tukkayid. There is also the potential to sell to the Inner Sphere, the Grand Council of course still having a say in what we can trade with our Spheroid contacts.” There were soft chuckles round the large chamber, the Foxes sold to whom they wanted and only paid polite lip service to the edicts on trade between the Clans and Houses.
“Ladies and gentlemen, I give you the Nagasawa class Assault Dropship.” The large central 3D holo-projector sprang to life, showing a perfectly clear image of a long, sleek and aggressive looking vessel. Smaller windows opened up displaying her statistics and predicted capabilities.
“Basing our design on the original Noruff, the Nagasawa is half again as large, massing three thousand tons and like the Noruff we chose to make her a fast and agile craft, with her engines producing twice the thrust of an Isegrim class vessel at full burn.” Katya said continuing as she saw the Foxes taking an interest in the design and begin comparing it to its nearest competitors.
“Unlike the Isegrim though we have chosen not to mount any sub-capital weaponry instead we have designed the Nagasawa’s weapons around a mixture of conventional ballistic and energy weapons. A quintet of our newest Rotary Autocannon-5 and a quintet of Extended Range Particle cannons form the vessels primary forward punch whilst extended range large lasers, LRM-20’s and large pulse lasers provide all round firepower. Each of the missile launchers are fitted with the latest Artemis-V tracking system whilst fifteen laser anti-missile systems provide the defences she needs.” She said explaining what had gone into the Nagasawa overall it was some of the most advanced conventional weapons available to the clans.
“Scientist factor we have developed our own sub-capital weapons why have they not been employed?” Another scientist Kinberg of the Deathstrike Khanate asked she could tell from his tone that the older warrior was not trying to challenge her instead he sounded curious.
“This weapons fit was chosen because honestly, if she was armed with sub-capital weaponry she would be under gunned, there is only so much you can fit on three thousand tons after all. Each of the weapons is in its own cradle which will allow them to be fully modular, and whilst not an Omni-vessel, our testing has shown that this makes the weapons easy to maintain and refit if needed.” She said their experiments on the prototype fixing alternate weapons to the hull had unfortunately failed on the holo-display the audience showed technicians working on a full scale mock-up of a RAC-5 mounting, with the weapon being dismounted and replaced in ten minutes.
The view then went to a 3D cutaway of the interior of the vessel. Katya moved around to the side of the holo-tank, a laser pointed highlighting sections of the ship’s hull which peeled back to reveal the interior layout.
“Using a wide range of input and experience as well as the latest in computer modelling the interior is laid out to be efficient and comfortable. And most importantly the vessel is sturdy. With ninety tons of Ferro-Aluminium armour the Nagasawa will take a hit from even a capital scale weapon and survive something that cannot be claimed by ships of this size and many far larger vessels cannot boast this level of protection. Combined with the ships speed which allows them to outrun large aerospace fighters and many medium sized ones they have the ability to move into the optimal position to bring its firepower to bare whilst taking the worst that an aggressor can throw back.”
On the holo a simulated battle took place with a Nagasawa engaged against Spheroid fighters as well as a DropShip. The simulation showed the Nagasawa’s strengths, outmaneuvering a larger Spheroid Assault DropShip and crippling its engines before chasing down medium fighters that simply could not outrun it.
“Whilst not atmospheric capable it is capable of deep space patrols and escorting larger vessels.” She said the ship would be capable of escorting any of the Sea Fox WarShips and ArcShips and it would be able to attack enemies of their Clan. “The hull is also designed to be manufactured in sections, with each section fitting like a jigsaw piece. This allows for them to be constructed at smaller facilities and at greater speed than a traditionally keel or spine built DropShip. This would also allow for the sections to be built and sold as needed, creating a market for spare parts or indeed, spare sections. Each of these sections when broken down will measure thirty meters in length and with this, you could fit a fully broken down Nagasawa in the cargo bay of a Mule class transport. A competent work crew could assemble the hull within a matter of weeks, but of course the fitting out, installation of electronics and the vital systems would still take months, this can shave a significant amount of time from construction and allows the Engineers to work in a safe and pressurized environment.” She said seeing that she was beginning to lose her audience she decided to end it quickly.
“Should construction be approved we believe that the first star of Nagasawas can be ready within four months and that would be using the production facilities we have aboard the Titanic. A fixed facility could produce them at a greater rate. And we do need these vessels. Whilst each fleet has its self defence capabilities, there are well founded concerns about what might happen if we were turned upon. Whilst the other Clans simply cannot and will not, because they need us and our trade, the House Lords are far more fickle, and we have seen what they are capable of thanks to the Capellans actions many years ago.” A low murmur went round the chamber, the words were true the Sea Fox Clan could not afford to lose another of their mobile colonies.
Whilst the ArcShips were massive, they were no battleship, and their tactical doctrine called for them to simply jump away if threatened, using DropShips and fighters as a sacrificial screen. Most ArcShips lacked a heavy escort and only the Terror of the Deep could fight a major battle, and she was being outclassed by the latest vessels to come out. There were calls by the Warriors to trade for or obtain in battle the first Arbitration-class vessel to be built to help secure the Clans valuable assets, as well as calls for more WarShips to escort the absolutely priceless ArcShips everything was considered expendable. Even the Terror of the Deep was expected to sacrifice herself if an ArcShip was threatened by an opposing military force, and this lack of major defence sat heavily in the minds of many of the Khanates.
“And while our military strength is enough to discourage adventurism the Spheroids may try us, and with the Nagasawa we can and will meet any challenge that comes our way.”
The holo now displayed a ‘typical’ ArcShip surrounded by a swarm of Nagasawas, their bright engine flares driving back an off-screen darkness as the symbol changed to that of the Diamond Shark’s insignia. Katya smiled as she knew she’d done well this day and it would be noted in her codex and if production was approved, promotion, prestige and profit all beckoned.
“Now moving on to a lighter subject, we feel that there is another market for us to exploit, and for this we must call upon one of our most potent forces.” Katya said, she knew about the next presentation and decided to ‘big it up’ somewhat as she stepped back. An eager and young looking Merchant stepped up as the Scientist took her seat, smiling at the applause she received as well as notifications on her console about personal meetings regarding the design.
“I wish to thank Scientist Katya for yielding the floor and I apologise for the tonal shift. But there is a market that we have not thought to swim, one that helps all of the Clans of Kerensky, and stands to bring great profit at minimal cost and with maximum impact.” The lights dimmed and a rather happy yet stirring piece of music started playing before the holo sprang to life projecting yellow highlighted orange words that read ‘The New Adventures of Clan Spaniel!’ As a rousing musical soundtrack began introducing the new holo-vid show which was being proposed for release to the Clan and Inner Sphere populations.
AFFS Facility
Lee, Lee PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
27th December 3107
For the last six months this deal had been on the table and finally the two sides met face to face. Duchess Kym Hasek felt nervous sitting opposite the older General Stormy Hutton head of the District of Oriente’s ground force military. “Both ships are ready for delivery as are the agreed ground forces.” She said looking at the older woman “as agreed both ships await your prize crews while my ground forces are ready to move into the region when you agree.” She said confident knowing that she had the Oriente officer where she wanted.
“You are enjoying this aren’t you?” Hutton asked there was an angry edge to her voice Kym Hasek knew why many of Oriente’s troopers had died fighting the Capellans and now with Regulus at their backs Oriente had been forced to turn to the Federated Suns for assistance. “You know during the Clan invasion the shoe was on the other foot? It was the Federated Commonwealth coming crawling to the Free Worlds League for weapons and arms and we did not ask for territory.”
“I do not believe the Federated Commonwealth asked for access to WarShips.” Kym Hasek said putting it into perspective each of the WarShips they were talking about was worth the GDP of the two planets in question while the ground forces included were almost an afterthought.
“Only because time has been good to your Suns” Hutton continued “it is almost like it has been written that no ill will befall your people while all others suffer.” She said angrily “I trust you know that your time will come?”
“Your leader has agreed to this trade do not jeopardize it now” Kym Hasek warned she was not particularly happy with the High Command’s decision and knew that her people could take both planets and many more in a concentrated assault on Oriente’s territory but the decision was not hers to make. The First Prince had decreed that the Federated Suns should not attack its Star League Defence Force neighbours and instead concentrate on the Capellan Confederation unlike her father, George Hasek, Kym was not in the position to disobey New Avalon’s instructions.
“I know my duty I just do not like this whole situation my nation has found itself in” Hutton said resigned to dealing on the Federated Suns terms “my troops will being to withdraw from Sakhalin and Sarna by the end of the week.” She said finally “you may move troops into the systems at anytime but none are to set foot on either planet until we complete our withdrawal. As agreed between our governments anyone who wishes to leave either system for the next six months will be allowed to at the expense of the Federated Suns with travel paid for on commercial transports to bring them into the Free Worlds League both WarShips and the ground troops are to be delivered to the Suzano system before I leave this system or the deal will be off.”
“That is what was agreed” Kym Hasek agreed smiling extending her hand which General Stormy Hutton met and shook “and now it is for the Federated Suns to return this world to prosperity.” Kym Hasek said taking one final dig at the Oriente General since the fighting between he Capellans and Oriente Sarna and nearby Sakhalin had suffered from an economic depression which the District of Oriente did not have the money to support. Now the Federated Suns could return to the soil and fix the problems while the DMI agents embedded on the planet could cease their activities the First Prince had directed no open combat activities but had said nothing about intelligence activities Kym thought as the meeting ended another victory for the Capellan March.
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love the update.. the Rim worlds is going to have there hands full getting the jumpship yard back in operation.
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I must admit that when I was writing the bit for Clan Sea Fox I had this in mind as the theme for The Adventures of Clan Spaniel
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fuJuWyfZcEw
Its suitably rousing yet fun.
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Map end of 3107
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/dragon-cat-collection/3081-map/30/#lastPost (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/dragon-cat-collection/3081-map/30/#lastPost)
And attached the unit listing for the end of 3107
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Cheers for the map Dragon Cat it always helps highlight what's been lost or gained. And great update from the TL :) It sounds like Mordecai could cause some serious issues, to the point of a civil war in the area if troops and planets follow him :s As well as tension with the Combine.
I loved the play between the Mandril and the Sharkfox, dangling a multi thousand ton bit of bait before them in the form of a ship that the Clans lack any equivalent of (Assuming that no one can produce the at best adequate Volga any more).
I'm sure that if the Foxes offered enough of a deal in return for the plans of the Cassandra in exchange for say materials and assistance in constructing/upgrading/repairing the jumpship yards. The Foxes would not be willing to wait 8 years for a very fine class design for sure.
The Horses are still pushing hard it seems, but with 2 new battleships about to come over and say "hi..." before punching hard in the face I think the offensive will slowly grind to a halt. Arcturus and Odessa are simply too vital to let the Horses anywhere near.
I wonder what ships the Suns are trading over to the Oriente, and i'm surprised there's not a Sea Fox ArcShip in the region going;
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nzCyyT7j5Do
But replacing 'drugs?' with 'Mechs?'
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The WarShips are on the Oriente WarShip list two Avalon IIs
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“Only because time has been good to your Suns” Hutton continued “it is almost like it has been written that no ill will befall your people while all others suffer.” She said angrily “I trust you know that your time will come?”
;D ;D ;D ;D
Great update, I'm looking forward to the next steps on the Hell's Horses front, though they are going to need to take advantage of the one-clan focus quickly, come early August the 2 year cease-fire with the Falcons is up. >:D [drool]
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I like how things are shaping up for all the factions. I think it's pretty cool that there is a new Black Hearts formation in the SLDF.
I chucked as Clan Sea Fox was presenting "‘The New Adventures of Clan Spaniel!" to group of Scientist and Warriors. I think that was a Merchant thing, but i can't imagine the Clans (traditional ones) has a sense of humor for children programming for both Inner Sphere and Clan children.
The Warships fleets look modest, there more big boys out there than normal frigates and destroyers. If I'm not mistaken.
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The whole thing is as Yoghurt said.
Merchandising merchandising, merchandising!
Clan Spaniel the FLAME THROWER!!!!
For them they've seen a way of making cash. Clan Spaniel toys, cuddly figures, Holo-series rights etc. It would also be split, the Clan territories would get a more doctrinal/indoctrinational style (possibly with subliminal messaging thrown in there) whilst those shown to the Inner Sphere would just advertising for the Clans and as a way to get moolah.
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Map end of 3107
http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/dragon-cat-collection/3081-map/30/#lastPost (http://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/dragon-cat-collection/3081-map/30/#lastPost)
And attached the unit listing for the end of 3107
I was looking at the ships. I have a question if you have time. what has the SLDF yards been up to. I only see three Caspers added or did I miss something.
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3107 was a slow year for additional WarShips for the SLDF with no new ships beyond the two Battleships purchased from the Federated Suns added. 3108 will be busier.
The SLDF have added additional ground forces in 3107
“Only because time has been good to your Suns” Hutton continued “it is almost like it has been written that no ill will befall your people while all others suffer.” She said angrily “I trust you know that your time will come?”
;D ;D ;D ;D
Great update, I'm looking forward to the next steps on the Hell's Horses front, though they are going to need to take advantage of the one-clan focus quickly, come early August the 2 year cease-fire with the Falcons is up. >:D [drool]
I knew that little quote would be spotted by someone - very intentionally put in there as a nod to anyone who thinks I have been overly nice to the Federated Suns... it won't last forever
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3107 was a slow year for additional WarShips for the SLDF with no new ships beyond the two Battleships purchased from the Federated Suns added. 3108 will be busier.
The SLDF have added additional ground forces in 3107
;D ;D ;D ;D
Great update, I'm looking forward to the next steps on the Hell's Horses front, though they are going to need to take advantage of the one-clan focus quickly, come early August the 2 year cease-fire with the Falcons is up. >:D [drool]
I knew that little quote would be spotted by someone - very intentionally put in there as a nod to anyone who thinks I have been overly nice to the Federated Suns... it won't last forever
Well they do have a lot of ships and some of them might have needed some yard time after all of those years of operations. thank you for the replay
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Kinda following on from one of the questions I asked you on the OBT forum, can you tell us who has what new warships under construction at the moment?
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That's a big question... and big questions deserve big answers. So find it attached
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That's a big question... and big questions deserve big answers. So find it attached
holy crap, that is good. at first I was concerned about all of those corvettes and scouts on power is building. then I remembered they are smaller and you can turn them out quicker than a Battleship. a good way to build up your fleet and command cadre.
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That's a big question... and big questions deserve big answers. So find it attached
In the Federated Suns tab, you have two Mercury-Class Battleships with same name, Ian Davion.
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they will all be Ian Davion, so never will the ship die!!! >:D
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I figured this is as good a time as any, if you follow the map link in my signature and go to the units file, there is a new spreadsheet listing many of the warships with links to their stats (mostly on ourbattletech.com, but a few are here). I intend to update it as new classes are revealed.
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In the Federated Suns tab, you have two Mercury-Class Battleships with same name, Ian Davion.
It's honestly not a misprint ???
It's a cover up... yeah the first ship is actually a fireship that will be sent to Sian or New Samarkand to bombard the Suns enemies before nosediving through the atmosphere in a heroic last stand...
It's honestly not a misprint :-[
I figured this is as good a time as any, if you follow the map link in my signature and go to the units file, there is a new spreadsheet listing many of the warships with links to their stats (mostly on ourbattletech.com, but a few are here). I intend to update it as new classes are revealed.
This really is awesome thank you!!
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Time to dive into 3108
3108
Naval battle
Grunwald, Arcturus Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
4th January 3108
“Bring us to port!” Kommadore Aime Muller shouted as her Indefatigable-class Battleship the LCS Diligence was hit by Naval Autocannon and Naval Gauss Rifle fire from a Halcyon-class Cruiser and a Jade Lion-class Battle-cruiser. The Hell’s Horses had arrived in the system an hour before and both WarShips had moved to engage the Diligence and Peter Steiner-Davion that had been sent to blunt the Hell’s Horses advance. Both of the Horse WarShips were concentrating on the Peter Steiner-Davion cutting into the WarShip’s armour unfortunately for them the Indefatigable had a massive amount of armour compared to the Clan vessels and it gave the Diligence free movement around the area. “Open the Cruiser to space!” She commanded as the vessel turned naval lasers and missiles slammed into the rear of the Halcyon smashing the Cruiser’s engines. The Diligence turned as quickly as a 1.8 million ton WarShip could its weapons arrays tearing open the Hell’s Horses Cruiser.
“Peter is reporting heavy damage to their port fore quarter” one of the crew reported the two Horse WarShips had realized they could not win and had gone all out to destroy one of the Lyran Battleships targeting one area of armour with all their firepower. In space the Peter Steiner-Davion began a slow roll as the Halcyon passed by the vessel continuing to fire despite its destroyed engines. As the Hell’s Horses WarShip passed close to the Lyran Battleship its broadside gauss rifles and lasers tore through the cruiser’s already damaged armour blowing open the side of the ship the massive opening of the ship altered the Halcyon’s course sending the remaining wreckage towards open space.
Even as the Halcyon was dispatched the Jade Lion continued to attack making runs past the Peter Steiner-Davion’s fore quarters engaging the larger vessel with naval autocannon and particle cannon fire smashing the armour there. “Hull breaches reported on Peter!”
“Inform Peter to cut all forward thrust and deaccelerate as quickly as they can but DO NOT turn remain on course!” Aime Muller commanded “have them prepare a concentrated burst of weapons fire on the enemy vessel as we pass” she ordered turning to the helm station “helm officer bring us on a direct course with the Peter, I want you to put us on a course that will take us directly past their nose! Weapons pass to all battery crews as we come past that Jade Lion I want them to gut her with everything we have left ignore the remaining aerospace fighters and DropShips.” She commanded as the giants of the deep manoeuvred the Diligence turned again heading on a direct course for the front of the Peter as the Jade Lion came in once more the two massive battleships past each other less than one hundred kilometres apart as the Jade Lion closed suddenly both battleships were in the same area of space and both were concentrating on the remaining Jade Falcon Battle-cruiser. The weapons fire from the two WarShips combined would be too much for a WarShip that carried three times the armour as the Jade Lion. Missiles lasers and gauss rifles tore into the Jade Lion’s armour ripping through the skin of the WarShip and shattering its internal bulkheads. In a single weapons salvo the once proud Battle-cruiser was shattered and turned into a floating hulk its wreckage drifting into space.
There were cheers throughout the LCS Diligence as the final Hell’s Horses WarShip was dispatched by their gunnery crews but Aime Muller remained calm and in command. “Let’s mop up these fighters and head towards the planet they are going to need our help with the Clusters that made it through our blockade. And get me a line to the Commanding Officer on the Peter they need to stay here and make sure no more Horses enter the system.”
Several days later the LCS Diligence arrived near Grunwald. With their naval support gone the two Horde Clusters that had made it to the planet had charged directly at the two Commonwealth Guard units on the planet causing massive damage to the Third Commonwealth Guards causing the command to collapse but at great cost with both Clan units also crippled in the fighting. With Diligence in orbit the remaining Horses agreed to accept an offer of Hegira and retreat from the planet with the salvage from the Fifth Horde Cluster left broken on the planet. In one battle the Lyrans had showed the attacking Horses that they were ready to stand up to them and defeat them.
Diplomatic Meeting, Mountain Wolf Command
Wolf City, Gallery
Halfway Province, Lyran Commonwealth
19th January 3108
Led through the caverns of Gallery Archon Jessica Steiner marvelled at what the Mountain Wolf population had done under the windswept surface of Gallery building a massive habitation and construction habitat in the months since their retreat from Arc Royal. Intelligence reports suggested the Mountain Wolves had taken inspiration from the Jade Falcon Clan and graduated their cadet warriors earlier than normal to raise two further clusters of warriors. Intelligence had thrown around the term “child soldiers” but according to the reports she had read the Mountain Wolves had not gone to the same extremes as the Falcons only graduating those of the age of sixteen without the normal trials of position. Entering Khan Evan Kell's office the Archon was glad to see the young Khan was waiting for her sitting behind her desk in the uncluttered office.
“Welcome to Wolf City” Evan Kell said not rising from his chair
“Thank you Khan Kell” Jessica said moving across to another chair she noted that her Elemental escort and bodyguards had waited outside leaving her and Khan Kell alone. “How is your Clan dealing with life on Gallery?”
“Having the sun above us instead of rock would be better but this is needed for our rebuilding” he said looking back at the Archon. “My people understand their current position and are ready to serve the greater good.”
“Speaking of which that brings me to the reason I am here.” The Archon said looking at the Khan “your Clan could do much more for the Lyran Commonwealth and for your own people.”
“I am listening” Evan calmly replied
“The Mountain Wolves officially become part of the Lyran military with the full benefits and support of any other brigade of the Commonwealth.” Jessica began seeing the Mountain Wolf Khan had remained quiet she continued “essentially I suggest the Mountain Wolves officially become members of the Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces. You will be your own brigade with warriors taken from your own training program…”
“But we will not be Clan!” Evan Kell seethed interrupting rising from his chair “we have protected your Commonwealth we have fought beside you, protected you! And is the treatment my Clan can expect? I think not Archon Steiner the Wolf Accords protect my Clan’s independence, and complete autonomy; I will not give that up for anyone!” She said finally turning his back to the Lyran Archon “it is time for you to leave, Archon Steiner, before I say or do something that I will regret.” He said finally refusing to turn towards the Lyran Commonwealth remaining facing away from Jessica Steiner until the door was opened by a Wolf Elemental. Unlike the escort she had when she arrived the Elemental now wore a full set of Battle Armour minus its missile unit. Archon Jessica Steiner was escorted through the facility to her DropShip which was then escorted to the JumpShip by Wolf Isegrim Assault DropShips.
By the time Jessica Steiner left the system she had learned that the Wolf Potemkin-class WarShip Full Moon and the Clan’s forces on Odessa and on the Jade Falcon border had abandoned their positions returning towards Gallery. Realizing her mistake Archon Jessica Steiner quickly past word across the Lyran Commonwealth that the Mountain Wolves should not be approached or stopped during their transit across the Commonwealth hoping that allowing them to regroup on Gallery would mend some of the wounds she had opened.
Counter-attack
Addicks PDZ, Draconis March
Federated Suns
22nd January 3108
As word is passed of the AFFS assault on Royal Draconis Combine forces assault the systems of Helen, Towne, Murchison and Addicks. The DCMS find elements of the Fourth Deneb Light Cavalry RCT and the Fourth Davion Guards RCT in the systems along with the FSS St George, a Congress II-class Frigate, in the Addicks system. As the DCS Akagi and the DCS Electra dispatch the FSS St George DCMS ground forces land on Addicks assaulting the AFFS ground forces on the planet bringing war to the Draconis March.
By the end of January Murchison, Towne, Skat and Markab are in the hands of the Draconis Combine as the Combine extends their offensive catching an unprepared AFFS flatfooted while Addicks and Helen are the scene of heavy fighting between the DCMS and AFFS and their hired mercenary forces.
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Nice update Dragon Cat! Question though. I thought Amina Kerensky was Khan of Clan Wolf, and not the Mountain Wolves.
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Nice update Dragon Cat! Question though. I thought Amina Kerensky was Khan of Clan Wolf, and not the Mountain Wolves.
I wrote that in a hurry earlier and knew I'd done something wrong Evan Kell is Khan but the jist is the same the Lyran leader angered the Wolf
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Good to see the Lyrans winning a space battle for a change.
Then they have to piss off the Mountain Wolves. Oh well can't expect them to do everything right.
The DC attacking the FS. Are these the interesting times for the FS you were predicting Dragon Cat. O0
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Very nice update Dragon Cat, those big Lyran vessels showing what they can do and destroying two very modern Horse warships, thats sure to put a serious crimp on their operations. The Lyrans also seem to slowly be getting a handle on the Horde clusters, all be it at tremendous cost.
Of course pissing off the Mountain Wolves like that was a dumb move, but hopefully the bridge wasn't burned, just singed.
The Combine attacking the Suns and Mordekai up to shenanigans...interesting times for the Suns ahead.
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The DC attacking the FS. Are these the interesting times for the FS you were predicting promising Dragon Cat. O0
Fixed that for you.
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Nah this is just a warm up the Suns road will be paved with good intentions and broken promises but that's to come for now Mordecia has given the District of Dieron a vent for some pent up aggression
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That's a big question... and big questions deserve big answers. So find it attached
Cheers DC, quick question is production on the LCS Malice on hold for any specific reason?
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Several reasons mostly related to it being a design that has been out of production for centuries
Skye is trying to show it can stand on its own unfortunately the Tharkad is probably beyond them they will likely need to grovel much to the SLDF who have Invincible as a guide
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Very nice update Dragon Cat, those big Lyran vessels showing what they can do and destroying two very modern Horse warships, thats sure to put a serious crimp on their operations. The Lyrans also seem to slowly be getting a handle on the Horde clusters, all be it at tremendous cost.
Of course pissing off the Mountain Wolves like that was a dumb move, but hopefully the bridge wasn't burned, just singed.
The Combine attacking the Suns and Mordekai up to shenanigans...interesting times for the Suns ahead.
Maybe if they have them one of those scout or corvettes it would smooth things over
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If the Lyrans are looking to pacify the Mountain Wolves, I may have something in the works... >:D
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So Jessica Steiner, was trying to bring the Mountain Wolves, into the Lyran Commonwealth. Much like how Fire Mandrills place was with the Rim Collection. They would have been their "own brigade with warriors taken from your own training program", yet capable of drawing on the Lyran Commonwealth to grow in size and support. Unless there is something else, they would have been a force within a force.
Instead well, now the LC has a rogue "Clan" within their borders, who is no longer keeping to deals agreed to before. Not sure what the full size of the Mountain Wolves are but maybe they need someone to explain their true weakness and strength.
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I wanna read on what and how DC house keeps next! Just don't rough shod the Horses to much... O:-)
TT
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So break time is over time for an update. The first part comes from marauder468. And there might be a hint of JA Baker about the Draconis Combine update
Raids
Free Worlds League
2nd February 3108
Sergeant Hone looked at the smoking remains of the Ostsol, the thing was a positively ancient 4F version, when its leg had been sheared off by Corporal Vine’s Orion it had collapsed like a sack of potatoes before its chest and cockpit blew out moments later.
‘Scuttling charges’ he thought. Whilst the tech’s were going over the wrecked museum piece and three other equally old BattleMechs they found no identifying marks, no maker’s numbers, nothing. And the four pilots were not talking, the blasts that had consumed their cockpits had seen to that.
What was clear was a blood red 99 on the shoulder and this had been seen on two other worlds when Mech’s had hit seemingly random targets before making off with inactive computer cores and miles of wiring and other assorted parts. Even the League’s Intel services were apparently drawing a blank, the raids and the material taken was of little use unless it was to sell to a nation or state who needed modern computer systems.
Several raids against seemingly random targets were reported by an unknown pirate band identifying themselves as The Crazy 99. The Pirate forces were large and well equipped with Mechs and vehicles, all were of Succession Wars era vintage but even those were enough to cause damage to an unprepared target. The Free Worlds League Military JumpShip Wild Ride had been boarded and captured, her four DropShips taken in a brief battle. The loss of her cargo of metal ores destined for Atreus was a minor irritation to the Free Worlds League but it showed the lengths that the raiders were willing to go to. So far neither the Wild Ride nor The Crazy 99 had been located reminding everyone just how big space was.
A week later a computer manufacturer was raided and a large number of high capacity mainframes were taken whilst raiding Mech’s held off the Security forces on world before withdrawing. Another raid went sour when the raiders encountered Marik troops on exercise, four Mechs were lost, but all their scuttling charges fired, destroying any evidence where they had come from.
Few knew the truth about the new pirate band, where their resources came from or why they went to the lengths to kill any fallen warriors and destroy their BattleMechs. Those that knew the truth knew The ‘Crazy 99’ was actually elements of the Cohors Morituri of the Marian Hegemony. The prison unit had been reinforced to twenty BattleMechs along with a dozen tanks and infantry support. These troops had been offered reduced or commuted Sentences in return for their efforts if they were successful and survived the battle. They were also viewed as being utterly expendable, and as they were already criminals, if caught then it gave the Marians plausible deniability.
Sister Cassandra looked at the reports on her desk. The ores obtained from the EOC DropShips could be rendered down to provide the metals needed to replace the hull sections most heavily affected by the radiation surge that had killed the Sagan’s crew as well as providing a surplus to help repair the Aqua Vitae yard. The Computers were not fully compatible but with most of those in the SLS C. Sagan had been fried and these replacements would suffice. Of course the raid on Niops IV to get electro-magnets to help maintain the fusion reactors had failed, and new targets were being sought. Of course one possible target was the Sea Fox JumpShips that travelled between their colony worlds of Westover and Zortman, but that would require travelling far deeper into the Free Worlds League than they had ever planned and an attack against the Foxes often brought angry reprisals from the Merchant Clan. Thinking about the Foxes Cassandra was tempted to provide the Marians with some Free Worlds League native designs and ordering the attack blaming it on the Free Worlds League and hopefully souring the relationship between the Foxes and House Marik.
Still she considered two out of three successful raids wasn’t bad for an initial run, and the metal ore and computers would go a great way to repairing the C. Sagan as well as getting the Marians in the technological debt of Interstellar Expeditions and their sponsors. And of course, there were always more targets choose from, perhaps heading north into the rather thin Steiner border might net gain. With them having to watch the Wolves on their border and with the Falcons rebuilding and Horses attacking, surely a small ‘pirate band’ would be able to get away with murder. Quite literally.
Meanwhile additional personnel were already arriving at the Aqua Vitae yards along with the first DropShips carrying new machine parts and replacement equipment to begin the long process of readying the yard and slip for construction once more. It was projected to take years, but Cassandra and her acquaintances were more than willing to play the long game.
“Lady Cassandra, the Caesar is here.” She smiled slightly as the younger man strode past her bowing slaves and she too bowed, a hand on her heart.
“Hail Caesar” she whispered as he stepped closer she sensed movements of his arms and felt his breath on her skin.
“Sister Cassandra…” He whispered back and she was in his arms a moment later the Marians would be in her pocket forever if everything continued as she planned.
Defence Line
Oriente City, Oriente
District of Oriente, Capellan Confederation
8th February 3108
The Capellan Confederation’s Dynasty Guard, at least one of their Warrior Houses and several supporting regiments had landed on Oriente in the dead of night lighting up the sky of explosions as they launched their initial attacks against the Fifth Oriente Hussars. In the six hours since the combine-arms regiment had been all but destroyed but it had bought the time needed.
“This is our home!” Colonel Christina Cruz shouted at the infantry around her as the Second Ducal Guard deployed their defensive lines. “The Mechs and armour are going to push these snakes off our home but we, WE, are going to be the ones who hold this ground!” She said as troopers moved into positions. We are the Mobile Infantry of Oriente we are going to push these bastards back to their DropShips one step at time. We are going to bleed them for every step.” She called out as a huge explosion filled the night’s sky above them. Cruz could see her troopers looking up at the expanding ball that could only be the OPS Cole Harbour or the OPS Kearny, the two Oriente Monolisk-class WarShips defending the system. “Ignore it!” She commanded trying to keep the troopers with her on their own mission. “I don’t care what the Capellan Confederation does to us, WE DO NOT FAIL TODAY!” She almost screamed at the troopers around her. The Confederation had conquered Andruien, which was now deep in House Liao claimed space and becoming a distant memory that it was once a House Marik holding, they would not take Oriente as well.
In the space above them the sole remaining Oriente WarShip OPS Kearny and her escort flotilla of assault DropShips continued to duel against the invaders who still fielded a Carrier, a Battleship and a Destroyer. “Turn us towards that Davion III” Flag Captain Gwen Yates commanded sighting the CCSS Hendrick Liao as her target. The Capellans called the ship the Zi-jin-class but everyone knew it was a captured Federated Suns vessel “as we approach have the remaining planetary batteries continue fire on that Battleship let’s bleed the Capellans.” She commanded as her lone Destroyer moved once more against the Capellans an Overlord A3-class DropShip rolling into the Monolisk’s path taking a hit destined for the Kearny. The DropShip had no chance of surviving the hit, the crew had to know that, but they were ready to take the hit to allow the Kearny to get into position to fire.
As the lone WarShip closed on the Capellan flotilla the Kearny occasionally rolled providing different armour and gunners against the enemy while aerospace fighters and DropShips died in the void between the WarShips. Naval weapons and conventional weapons flew between the two sides with the Kearny concentrating on breaking the Hendrick Liao while the Capellans peeled away the Kearny’s escort and began to cause heavier damage to the lone destroyer. On the command deck of the Kearny Flag Captain Gwen Yates looked at her watch watching the minutes count down, she checked their position for the hundredth time as she felt the ship rock from more hits, she knew her ship could not last much longer against the onslaught she faced nor did it need to. The countdown on her watch finally hit zero. “Hard to port!” She commanded “weapons stations continue on Hendrick Liao, communications command defence net to target local DropShips and the Hendrick Liao but no wild shots!” She commanded as her WarShip continued its turn bringing the broadside against the hapless Hendrick Liao which was now little more than a floating hulk.
Above the Capellan formation a flash of light filled space and within moments a new WarShip had entered the system the OPS Star Knight. The Avalon II-class Cruiser recently acquired from the Federated Suns was still painted in its red primer of the Federated Suns navy but it was a welcome sight to the Oriente defenders. Even as the Star Knight began its assault on the Capellan Battleship with its naval autocannons and missiles the vessel’s sister ship Star Witch emerged over the planet ready to add another layer to the planet’s defence.
With capital missiles exploding all over the Bain Cheng Wang-class Chancellor’s Destiny and Oriente ground forces digging in holding the ground they had taken. Pulling off Oriente in what could only be described as disarray three regiments worth of armoured vehicles are abandoned on the field as the Capellans find their landing zones overrun by the Oriente defenders. In space weapons fire from the Star Witch cut several more DropShips from space completely destroying Warrior House Kamata in a fiery explosion. Oriente had lost an entire ground force regiment, one of their Monolisk-class Destroyers had been destroyed and another crippled but they had bloodied the Capellan Confederation once more and survived to fight again.
Border Conflict
Addicks, Addicks PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
11th February 3108
As the Fifth Crucis Lancers RCT arrive on Addicks to support the defence against the Draconis Combine word arrives that the Fourth Deneb Light Cavalry has been forced to withdraw from Helen and further attacks have occurred in the Cylene, Galatea III and Ozawa systems as the DCMS expand their offensive into the Draconis March. The survivors from Helen report a new class of Draconis Combine WarShip over Helen which resembles a Davion Columbia or Mercury-class Battleship in shape and size. Federated Suns intelligence have no information on the capabilities of the vessel which has appeared from nowhere DMI spies in the region report only the name DCS Akagi.
As the fighting continues between the Federated Suns and the Draconis Combine further cracks appear between the Star League member states as the Taurian Concordat launches raids against several bordering worlds with the Federated Suns shattering any illusion of peace.
SLDF Proving Grounds
New Earth, Star League Protectorate
19th February 3108
“This is incredible Governor Cameron” Colonel Mitch Henderson said looking over the lines of BattleMechs in front of him. Each was a variation of the one that came before it in increasing sizes all were based around a quad chassis and every one of them was under remote control. “An entire drone regiment I never thought I’d see the day.” He said looking at the legions of Drone Mechs in front of him overhead the air was controlled by Blackwasp Drone Aerospace Fighters, copied from those originally carried by the SLS Wasp.
“I’ll be honest, Colonel, in many ways neither did I the SLDF planned to experiment with such a unit one that could be used to defend far flung difficult to support outposts” Bannister Cameron explained. It had been part of the Wasp’s original mission perimeters to experiment with large scale drone deployments, like the Casper WarShip drones, but they had only been able to perfect the Blackwasp units advancing their AI to the point where the drones needed minimal direction. “These units will still need far more human input than I would like” he admitted looking over the units “but it is a start. If I can convince the command council of their worth then every planetary guard could be equipped with a support unit increasing every planet’s defences for a minimal manpower usage.”
“There will be a lot of opposition towards their deployment, Governor; many already oppose the further deployment of Casper units.” Henderson pointed out. Many were afraid of the Casper Drones after hearing horror stories about what the original vessels did under the commander of Stefan Amaris.
“I know Colonel” Cameron said looking over the assembled drones “which is why you’ve been tasked with putting a human face on this unit and showing that it is here to support human defenders not replace them and certainly not wipe out towns and cities of citizens. They are a tool for our defence not a doomsday device.”
“I will do my best Governor…” Henderson said hesitating before he spoke again “sir, as I understand it your command’s research into drone tech is what brought us to this point so I understand why you are here.” He said Cameron didn’t look back instead he remained looking at the assembled Drones as they began to turn moving as units onto the Proving Grounds behind. “But, sir, Commanding-General Focht is the commander of the Star League Defence Force why is he not the one giving out these orders?” Cameron had expected the question and the answer that followed would test Henderson’s loyalty to breaking point he knew.
“Because Victor Focht is one of those people against drone and AI development he is against this unit’s even existence” he explained “he would prefer to see every one of these Mechs broken down and replaced with BattleMechs controlled by flesh and blood. He would prefer to see fathers; mothers, brothers and sisters die in battles that could be fought by these BattleMechs, vehicles and fighters.” He said looking at the Colonel “the Command-General would like to see this project shutdown, he would like to see all funding transferred and this entire little experiment abandoned permanently. I believe that this unit we have created will be another weapon in the Star League Protectorate’s arsenal he believes it is a waste and he will come gunning for us and anyone involved in this project so if you want out Colonel it’s your choice.” Cameron said finally turning towards Henderson.
“I will prove the Commanding-General wrong and show him that this is something we can use.” Henderson said as he spoke Bannister reached out and the two shook hands.
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Hmmm..so the Combine have got a successor to the Yamato. Wonder where she was built, Midway perhaps? And if she resembles a Columbia possibly designed with the aid of spies/DEST infiltration?
The battering over Oriente is going to probably at least derail any plans the Cappies have, but they'll be back. And in greater numbers.... If they can spare them. And with the Combine and Suns starting to get into a full blown punch up then there's little worry about attacks from the North.
This drone unit sounds impressive, I assume its the ultra-lights, the lights and the assaults we've seen in the TRO's right?
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Hmmm..so the Combine have got a successor to the Yamato. Wonder where she was built, Midway perhaps? And if she resembles a Columbia possibly designed with the aid of spies/DEST infiltration?
I have provided DC with the stats and some of the fluff for the Akagi (the fluff is still a work in progress), but that's based upon my Tartarus AU, so he may well change parts of it.
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Hmmm..so the Combine have got a successor to the Yamato. Wonder where she was built, Midway perhaps? And if she resembles a Columbia possibly designed with the aid of spies/DEST infiltration?
The battering over Oriente is going to probably at least derail any plans the Cappies have, but they'll be back. And in greater numbers.... If they can spare them. And with the Combine and Suns starting to get into a full blown punch up then there's little worry about attacks from the North.
This drone unit sounds impressive, I assume its the ultra-lights, the lights and the assaults we've seen in the TRO's right?
the Columbia is a few hundreds of years old, the plan could have been in a history book. like deck plans for the HMS Victory or the Mary Rose. where was she built is a great q.
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Combine would replace or update it's existing design. Thing is if you hadn't noticed (main line battletech, due to difficulties designing new ship by hand) existing designs are simply reused. DragonCat's universe it's consistingly getting new designs or updating them.
I suspect that Yamato would be replaced by Yamato II or something named Grand Yamato ;)
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How about Yokozuna?
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marauder - the Akagi is a different beast than the Yamoto. She's got more in common with the AFFS ships she resembles. The drones are based on the Revenant Drone used by the WoB in canon and larger versions of the same BattleMech.
JA Baker - the fluff won't be much different only the factors that my AU has over your Tartarus AU which I can't go into because it gives away what the ship is... while the stats I'm going with identical to what you already have I really like it.
Wrangler - I like Grand Yamato... not for this design but I like that
cawest - she is a classic design (for the AU anyway) although the Combine have played about with it. The Akagi comes in between Columbia and Mercury classes in size
Next update - as I said I feel like writing. For those who have read the Homeworlds piece I did previously you'll recognize some of this update
Society Work Base 6 Alpha
Babylon City, Babylon
Pentagon Worlds, Deep Periphery
9th March 3108
After six months working with the Society Alex Lassenem he had learned a lot about the Society and how they ruled. While the Society was very good at hiding things and working around rules put in place by the Clans but they were very poor at detecting those working against them from the inside. Alex had learned that once you were into a Society group they trusted you as one of them Alex’s unit had been described as never-do-well Clan warriors who wished to be on top of the new order.
In the six months they had done well with the Society with only two minor incidents the first had been the most dangerous when MechWarrior Flynn, one of the Septicemia pilots, had hesitated in firing her weapons to disperse a crowd of civilians who were protesting about delayed food shipments to Babylon. When the scientist had ordered the firing for a second time Flynn had fired their OmniMech’s pulse weapons roughly a metre over the crowd quickly dispersing the civilians. Their scientist commander had wanted the weapons into the crowd but had accepted the results. The second had been closer to exposing what his unit were doing on Babylon when MechWarrior Sylvester, the Cephalus pilot, had been pulled up by the scientists over his constant trips down the same route. Sylvester had explained he was visiting a local brothel, following the course of human nature, the scientists had investigated Sylvester’s claim and found he was telling the truth he had been visiting the brothel and exchanging credits for their services. Soon after the scientists had announced that all warriors who wished to visit the brothels were welcome to as long as they did so in their own time giving Alex’s team an excuse to drop data along that route when they wanted to.
During the time on Babylon Alex and his team had learned much about the Society and its workings the Scientists controlled everything but the warriors were given a lot of leeway in what they did. The MechWarriors while given little authority over what they did on the field were allowed to do whatever they wanted in their personal time, much like in regular Clan society, they were given the best of food and kept in the best physical shape. Alex suspected that this was due to the fact that there were only twenty-two MechWarriors on the planet outside his own unit of six. While aerospace fighter pilots were as important as the MechWarriors the majority of them remained in space or on their bases and Alex had not encountered them much. The ProtoMech Warriors were the strangest of the lot while numerous they were also the most detached Alex had yet to hold a single conversation outside of training or combat. When off duty if they were not eating they remained inside their ProtoMechs constantly as one with the machine. The Armour crews were the most numerous of all of the Society warriors with the numbers of armoured vehicles he had seen enough to give the most loyal Hell’s Horses warrior a wet dream. The crews were treated well but because of their number they were seen as less prestigious as the MechWarriors. And the last group of their warriors were the Infantry. While unarmoured infantry guarded most bases and were numerous the Battle Armoured Elementals were far rarer and were only seen at the most important encounters.
One thing that may explain the lack of Elementals and their Power Armour was something Alex had overheard when assisting in moving equipment in the command bunker was that the Society had lost its source of HarJel when renegade Goliath Scorpion Warriors and Sea Fox traders had brought eight nuclear weapons to Hoard one of the primary sources of HarJel in the Cluster. The nuclear fire had reacted badly to the atmosphere and Hoard’s surface had burned if the Society reports were to be believed it was now a dead world. Without HarJel to repair the battle damage to Elemental Power Armour it would make the Society’s Elementals far more susceptible to losses in the field. The information had already been sent off Babylon to be analysed by the Clan’s experts unfortunately that was all that seemed to be happening. Whatever reason Alex was here so far the Clan had not reacted to the intelligence gathered instead all he and his team could do is continue to gather data.
Lying on his bed he heard the handle on the door of his room creek as someone turned it quickly he grabbed one of the Society’s “Warrior books” and pretended to read it just as Scientist Leader Sophie O’Brien stepped in. She was young perhaps twenty-five years old and she was their primary handler and interface with the leadership of the Society on Babylon. While Alex found her attractive she had an annoying ability to be able to read people. “Group Commander Alex I hope I am not interrupting you?” She asked standing in the door way looking at the book.
“No just catching up on my reading” Alex said lifting the book.
“What is your favourite part?” She asked Alex knew she was trying to trip him up so decided to show her up.”
“If Nicholas Kerensky, the Great Founder of us all, had been more of a Scientist than a Warrior REVIVAL would have been far more successful.” He began seeing she was impressed “as soon as the warrior caste successfully secured the planets we should have begun the systematic round up and execution of all planetary politicians, the sick, deformed, old and infirm. This action would have broken these planets’ resistance and pacified the populations allowing us to move forward quickly from system to system.” He said reciting the words from the book.
“The late Etienne Balzac” she said recognizing the words stepping into the room “you are an impressive man Alex” she said looking at him with a smile “I am not the only one who has noticed.” She said continuing to give him a disarming smile “which is why I have come here to warn you Scientist General Michael Gibson will be coming here.” She announced Alex’s attempt to cover his surprise failed as he immediately thought of looking across the street on Fasa at the Scientist General. “Yes, I was as surprised but with your team things should run very smoothly” she said “and with that both your team and mine would be well rewarded.” She suggested Alex nodded while Sophie continued to smile withdrawing backwards out of his room pulling the door slowly closed. Alex continued to read the scientist dribble for several moments before reaching for his micro-transmitter into the small machine he typed a small message.
“AFTER MUSTER ;)” before sending the message.
At 1830 the six MechWarriors, three times as many ProtoMech pilots and many more armoured warriors appeared in front of the Scientist leadership including Sophie O’Brien. After they were shown to be attending Alex marched straight over towards MechWarrior Laurel grabbing her around the waste drawing her into an embrace intentionally kissing her in front of the scientists. They knew that the warriors needed personal contact and with Alex kissing Laurel it would hopefully give Sophie O’Brien the message he wanted to send. Since the two were off duty they headed directly towards Alex’s quarters where the two of them spent the next several hours despite the intentional public show of affection being aimed at driving off Sophie O’Brien Alex had to admit he also enjoyed it.
“So he is coming here? That must be our target” Laurel said as they lay in bed. “But we have sent the data dump for this week.”
“Aff” Alex said he was lying behind her on the bed “we need an excuse to send a second data dump.” He said “tomorrow when we go out on patrol we will go up Atacon Pass” he said “we will pass over the loose rocks we saw the other week I will intentionally lose control over the Mech and fall down the slope. Before you guys can return with the lifting gear I will slip away to the relay point and send the message.” He said
“The damage to your Mech could cause you your position.” She said “I have a superior plan. I will use my OmniMech’s jump jets to slow my fall.” She said leaning into him “I will not be able to jump back up from there and will have to go the long way that should being me close enough to the transmitter to send a data dump.”
“It is risky” he said kissing her bare shoulder “you think you can control the fall?”
“Better than you could in that monster” she pointed out “I can do it but first we make the most of tonight” she said turning around towards him under the covers.
Patrol Route
Atacon Pass, Babylon
Pentagon Worlds, Deep Periphery
10th March 3108
The next day things were going exactly as the two of them had predicted as they moved through the pass Alex had ordered Laurel not to tell the others their part in the plan. When they passed over the rocks Sylvester called out the loose rocks the same as he always did and everyone acknowledged them. Unable to use the jump jets in the tight confines the pass Laurel manoeuvred her Septicemia through the pass intentionally standing on the unstable rocks suddenly they gave way and the fifty-five ton OmniMech slipped “OH HELL!” She shouted out as her Mech fell onto its chest smashing armour plates before the legs went over the edge the other Septicemia pilot moved to assist but Laurel screamed at Flynn to stay back “NO WE’LL BOTH GO OVER” she warned “I’ve got this” she said as the Mech went over she expertly turned her Mech so its back armour was scrapping against the loose rocks while cutting in the OmniMech’s jump jets slowing the fall until she reached the ground below.
“Are you alright?” Alex asked his OmniMech had been anchoring the column at the back and he’d seen it all.
“Aff, stavag I mean yes” she said correcting herself the Scientists did not like the Clan’s Aff, Neg and their interrogatives Quiaff and Quineg. “Light armour damage and a smashed hand actuator.” She reported “unfortunately I will not get back up from here.” She said sounding so disappointed.
“Circle back through the forest” Alex ordered “return to base yourself we will return after the patrol.” Mentioning the forest should tip off the other MechWarriors that she was heading towards the relay station while the rest of them completing their patrol would cover for her absence.
Several hours later Alex and Laurel stood with Scientist Leader Sophie O’Brien watching the gun camera footage of Laurel’s Septicemia as she smashed through the trees of Babylon a silver communications dish on a tower stood out. The Septicemia’s torso twisted to the left and then to the right covering the full rotation before locking on the tower firing its main weapons destroying the tower O’Brien froze the image. “Please explain your actions, MechWarrior.” She said looking at Laurel
“I believed it was a Clan intelligence gathering tower” the MechWarrior explained “I scanned the area for Clan contacts then eliminated the target.”
“You could have secured it for future study by our people.” O’Brien pressed the point for a moment.
“Ne… No I could not” Laurel said quickly catching herself “I moved through the forests from an unplanned point and had no guarantee I could lead a team back through that area.” She said looking at Alex who nodded “eliminating the target reduced the rebels’ ability to communicate giving us a better chance at eliminating them.”
“I see” O’Brien said “Group Commander she is your responsibility” she said delegating disciplinary action to Alex.
“Yes, I believe she was correct” he said knowing that O’Brien would know they had been involved physically and that he would protect her. “The more we can cut off the clan rebels from each other the easier they will be to destroy.”
“Fine dismissed” she said allowing them both to leave as they returned to their quarters Alex leaned towards Laurel.
“I assume you transmitted the data before you fired?”
“Aff, I knew she would check my gun footage” Laurel replied “I had no option but to destroy the tower.” She said as they continued entering Alex’s quarters.
“Aff, you did well.” He agreed as they both slipped down onto the bed “now let us hope things go the way we want.” With them together again so soon after the incident it should be the perfect cover for Laurel’s actions and Alex’s decision to protect her. Now they had to wait and see if Scientist General Gibson was the Clan’s target.
Clan Watch Operations
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
16th March 3108
As Clan Coyote continue their operations against Society Cells within their Occupation Zone Clan Jade Falcon do the same in their own territory eliminating several stars worth of warriors and nearly a dozen scientists in a series of raids. Unlike the Coyotes who have been taking great pains to avoid collateral damage the fighting between the Falcons and the members of the Society cause more than five hundred civilian casualties as the fighting gets out of hand on several worlds.
Command Headquarters
Addicks, Addicks PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
21st March 3108
Duke Mordecia Sandoval marched proudly into the command room of the Addicks PDZ. His forces had been directed by the AFFS High Command and by New Avalon itself to support the defence of Addicks from intrusion by the Draconis Combine. His cousin Joseph had signed an order supporting his reassignment. Moving through the Headquarters stepping up to the main map table “what is the status of our defences here?” He asked loudly expecting an immediate answer; he was after all a member of the March’s ruling family.
“With your forces added to my own Fourth, the Fifth Crucis Lancers RCT and the Federated Suns Lancers RCT we effectively have four RCTs to turn back any intrusion onto this planet. The Naval forces in the system can counter anything the Combine can throw at us.” Field Marshal Rebecca Gothram, the commander of the Fourth Davion Guards RCT.
“Very good, I will need information on the deployments across the system so I can formulate a strategy.” He said attempting to put across a sense of confidence and control to the seasoned Davion Guard commander. When she didn’t immediately move he looked at her quizzically “is there a problem Field Marshal?”
“There is” she said handing him a folder which he opened and glanced through “this is your forces area of operations. You will coordinate with the First Federated Suns Lancers RCT to repel any invasion to this area.”
“This is an unimportant area of operations!” He snapped looking at the pages of information “as commander I should be at a central point of defence.”
“Your units do not warrant a prestigious place of defence” Gothram said coldly “your units are small and mobile. I need the Davion Guards and Crucis Lancers where they are.”
“I am a member of the Sandoval ruling family I will decide where I need my units. My name grants me that right I can have your commission!” He said becoming increasingly more angry
“No” Gothram corrected handing him a second piece of paper this one addressed to the Field Marshal with the crest of the First Prince on it. “I am commander of the Fourth Davion Guards RCT, a unit of the Royal Brigade of Guards” she said putting him in his place stepping around the table. “My command here is guaranteed by the First Prince and is absolute. Your forces are here to support my operations. Your name gives you the respect of the ranks your actions have cost you my respect and those of the First Prince.”
“This is preposterous!” Sandoval snapped deciding not to leave the matter.
“As was your attack on Royal which started this mess” Gothram said deciding to explain a fact of life to the Duke. “Instead of having your people eliminated the First Prince has chosen to use your people and allow them to fight for the Draconis March. You will try to win some honour Duke Sandoval and perhaps redeem your unit’s reputation.” She said putting the stunned Duke in his place “now you are dismissed.”
Alex Lassenem’s quarters
Society Work Base 6 Alpha, Babylon
Pentagon Worlds, Deep Periphery
24th March 3108
While it had begun as a cover story Alex and Laurel had continued coupling for the duration of their time on Babylon it was a comfort for both of them to be together on a planet controlled by the enemy. Laying behind Laurel the two spoke in hushed voices unsure if they were being recorded or not “it has been two weeks” she said not moving “and still nothing. He arrives in four days what the hell are we supposed to do?”
“Suicide mission” he whispered back “we were sent here to be eyes, ears and executioner.” He said “they never expected us to survive. They did not expect us to need back up or complete the mission.” He explained still she didn’t move.
“You only send Solahmas on suicide missions.” She said angrily not wanting to be classed alongside the aged worthless warriors.
“Once upon a time it was that way. Perhaps with our Clan it was that way” he said Laurel was another former Hell’s Horse warrior like Alex. “But maybe the old Khan is not playing by the old rules” he suggested “we were sent undercover that is not Clan. We are using Society Mechs not the Clan way.”
“A Mech is a Mech it is a tool it doesn’t matter who built it. We could use an Inner Sphere BattleMech but we would still be Clan warriors.” She snapped her anger boiling over.
“Calm yourself” Alex whispered rubbing her bare shoulders “I have a plan” he said “we are going to do it ourselves and we are getting out alive.” He said kissing her shoulders “they are never going to see this coming.” He promised her as their bodies moved together if anyone was listening in they may as well give them something to enjoy and any good warrior knew relieving tension was the most important thing.
- - -
The next day Alex checked out his OmniMech for a routine patrol with MechWarrior Flynn and they headed into the Babylon Wastelands an area created during the Clans battles with the Society. Liberal use of nuclear and biological weapons had turned the region into a dead zone because of this Clan rebels used the area as a place to hide and Society patrols were a regular occurrence meaning Alex’s visit wouldn’t arouse too much suspicion. Passing through the area Alex piloted his Osteon through the wastelands following the standard Society patrol routes but he had his OmniMech’s sensor system scanning in a very particular way. In return the Osteon was being hit by a specific way of scanning. Unsurprisingly neither Alex nor Flynn spotted any rebel forces but both of their Mechs had collected the data that they needed.
That night the six warriors of Alex’s unit stood at the foot of his Osteon in the base’s Mechbay discussing what they knew and what they were going to do. “This is how they will approach it is the same each time. Flynn you here” he said placing down a marker for the Septicemia “you will open the door and welcome them in. Sly you will have Helo and be on Echo duty.” He said speaking to the Cephalus pilot who nodded. “Grant, Claire you are with me at point Alpha we have the main guard positions anything coming from the front and we take them down. Laurel you have point Zulu if they have fast units you cover our backs.” he said placing down the final marker for their second Septicemia which would cover the three Osteon’s backs. “Whatever happens we ensure that Scientist General Gibson is covered from all angles and nothing happens to him without our say so.” He commanded the other nodded unsure exactly why he had taken a formal tone then they noticed as Scientist Leader Sophie O’Brien approached. As expected the Scientist immediately looked at Laurel with a disdainful look which almost brought a smile from Alex but he decided to speak up. “Scientist Leader, how can we assist you?”
“I wanted to make you aware Scientist General Gibson has moved up his arrival schedule he will arrive on Babylon one week tomorrow.” She announced “as is planned he will have two Septs of forces as bodyguard and the WarShip Absolute Truth.” She said Alex knew that she was trying to see a reaction from any of his people but Alex gave her no satisfaction stepping forwards.
“Of course” he said “we have increased our patrols of the Wastelands and we are ready for his arrival here. Nothing will get near our defence while my two Treys will hold the bases defence.”
“Your Sept Group Commander” she said correcting him “my Septicemia will be joining your formation.”
“Your Septicemia?” Alex asked unaware that she was trained as a MechWarrior.
“Yes, from a past life.” She said smiling “I may be a little rusty but I will try not to let this brave unit down.”
“We have every confidence in your ability” Laurel said standing beside Alex “and we welcome you among our ranks Scientist Leader” she said laying it on thick bowing her head slightly with respect.
“We will put on a glorious show together and put Babylon in the spotlight. Each of you will be remembered among our ranks for generations to come.” She promised each of the warriors assembled Alex smiled a false smile wondering exactly how much Sophie O’Brien expected and knew there was something off with her coming here today like this. He would watch the Scientist Leader extra closely over the next week.
Clan Mountain Wolf Command
Wolf City, Gallery
Halfway Province, Lyran Commonwealth
27th March 3108
“This is a mistake” saKhan Toby Fetladral said angrily looking around the room and finally focusing on the young Khan in front of him. “We cannot do this”
“It is already done” Loremaster Ann Metha stated looking back at the saKhan “you agreed to the path when it was chosen. It was that or we lose our identity forever.”
“We will lose our identity” Fetladral said looking around the room “my Khan within a couple of years our identity will be gone swallowed by the whole.” He said he had been a member of the Mountain Wolf Clan for more than forty years, since their original break from Clan Wolf, and couldn’t have ever foreseen what they were now planning especially not from the son of Phelan Kell.
“Those who do not wish to follow the Clan’s new path will be offered alternatives.” Evan Kell said carefully he knew many of the older warriors would now agree with his plan. He knew that many of the younger warriors would likely feel the same but also that many would relish the new challenge.
“I am a Wolf, I have been a Wolf since I was born and I will be a Wolf until I die” Fetladral said quietly. “I do not agree with your path Evan Kell and I do not believe that this is our path so I must challenge you to a Trial of Grievance. Others must see that there is an alternative to this path.”
“I do not want to kill you Toby, do not do this…”
“It is done my Khan” the old warrior said rising from his chair leaving the room. Evan Kell looked around the room as well as the Loremaster there were five other members of the Mountain Wolves present Star Admiral Maya Ch’in, the head of the navy, Star Colonel Gilford Shaw, the commander of the training sibkos, both remaining Galaxy Commanders of the Mountain Wolves and finally to the heads of the merchants and scientist Castes. All had been given an equal vote in this and the majority had chosen the same course of action only the saKhan seemed willing to challenge Evan on the course of action instead agreeing that this was the only way of preserving their culture. “Star Admiral prepare your WarShips and JumpShips for the coming operation. All of you I know this decision has been hard but I believe that this is our only course forward. We are Clan every single one of us is capable of progressing this way we have to choose our skill and determination to make things happen how we want them to.”
An hour later on the surface of Gallery Khan Evan Kell gave saKhan Toby Fetladral the warrior’s death he desired first downing the saKhan’s Timber Wolf with the weapons from his Lycurgus then crushing the OmniMech’s cockpit when Toby Fetladral refused to surrender. To honour the fallen warrior Evan Kell ordered the Timber Wolf chassis stripped of all technology worth salvaging and left on the wind swept surface of Gallery. With nothing of value to the broken OmniMech Evan hoped that it would remain there in memory of its fallen pilot while several further lines of text were added to the Mountain Wolf’s Remembrance in Toby Fetladral’s name further honouring the man who had stood by his principles.
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Whaaaaa!? I wana know whats about to happen with he mountain wolves! Will they be relavint again?
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Whaaaaa!? I wana know whats about to happen with he mountain wolves! Will they be relavint again?
I just hope they do not go running to the Wolf Empire.
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I just hope they do not go running to the Wolf Empire.
I would understand if hey did. Though hey might goto a prephery power as well or even trike out on there own again.
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Lyrans are trying absorb them, the Empire is trying to absorb them/destroy them. Other Clans including Jade Falcon want to obliterate them.
It's fight or migrate out of the Inner Sphere. I doublt that the Star League Protectorate would allow them to join and become component while retaining the way of the Clan.
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April is particularly big so it's broken up a bit. First comes the parts which I've already shared in the "For the Cause" break away story in the homeworlds now presented as part of the timeline.
Society Work Base 6 Alpha
Babylon, Pentagon Worlds
Deep Periphery
1st April 3108
A week passed as in a blink of an eye and very soon Scientist General Michael Gibson was on the planet of Babylon. With news reports hailing his arrival as a great day for Babylon in a speech Gibson promised to clean up the Wastelands of the “Clan Menace” and the wastelands they had created. It made Alex Lassenem sick to his stomach listening to the Scientist General speak but perhaps at the same time he was worried about what was to come very soon Gibson’s motorcade began its tour towards the Wastelands arriving at Work Base 6 Alpha. Alex’s forces were in position “Scientist Leader O’Brien you may situate yourself wherever you wish” he said watching her Septicemia move at the rear of their formation.
“I will shadow MechWarrior Laurel” she said “you are the expert in this arena Group Commander I will follow your commands to the best of my abilities.”
“Understood” Alex said watching as the heavily armed convoy moved towards them the lead two OmniMechs were a pair of Cephalus each carrying what looked like Battle Armour troopers, next were a pair of Osteons, three heavily armoured limousine transports and a special looking Septicemia with appeared to be transporting a large communication dish. Beyond the gates of the base Alex knew the ProtoMech and armour units of Gibson’s escort were around the base along with the other bodyguard units. Flynn stood at the entrance to the base allowing the convoy to enter as they did ten Battle Armour trooper jumped from the backs of the Caphalus.
“Oh hell Gnomes!” Sylvester said seeing the Elementals drop to the ground.
“What was that MechWarrior Sylvester?” Scientist General Sophie O’Brien asked cutting in she sounded confused at why Sylvester was annoyed at seeing the heavy Battle Armour suit. Alex immediately overruled her communication system.
“This is Star Colonel Alex Lassenem, FOR THE CAUSE!” He announced his words were a command as well as an announcement. Instantly two things happened in every cockpit the MechWarriors switched to a planned alternate frequency and executed their fire orders.
Flynn instantly fired two particle cannon blasts into the back of the strange looking Septicemia smashing through the Mech’s back armour, structure and engine shielding instantly shutting down the OmniMech.
Sylvester’s OmniMech, which was normally unarmed, opened fire with its retrofitted heavy medium lasers targeting the Gnomes. Unfortunately while the lasers would be enough to kill regular elementals they were not enough to destroy individual Gnomes.
Behind Alex’s position he heard Sophie O’Brien scream in anger and possibly pain but did not have time to turn around to see what happened instead he Grant and Claire all unloaded their weapons on the rear limousine each of the advanced tactical missiles were armoured with improved inferno warheads spraying the area with fire intending on destroying the vehicles instantly.
Immediately they noticed that the fire was doing little to no damage “Fire resistant armour where the hell did they get that?” Concentrated fire, kill them with other munitions!” Alex snapped he had no idea where the Society had developed fire resistant armour but it was a problem they didn’t need. Suddenly Sylvester’s Cephalus charged past him the OmniMech fully on fire charged forwards straight into one of the limousines causing both to explode in a fireball Sylvester didn’t eject from the OmniMech. Alex looked at his rear area and saw that Laurel was still standing but O’Brien’s Mech was down its back ripped open by weapons fire its cockpit face down into the ground. “Laurel take out the Gnomes keep your distance they seem to have inferno rounds!” He warned her under the combined firepower of the three Osteon’s the second and third transport exploded into fireballs of their own but now the Society loyal Osteons were turning their weapons on Alex and the other two Osteons causing near instant heavy damage as they concentrated fire. As weapons fire was exchanged between the assault OmniMechs suddenly the air around them turned into fire and the ground exploded around them. “What the hell?” Alex wondered even as he tried to counter the other Osteons he saw the entrance of the base along with MechWarrior Flynn’s Septicemia explode.
“Absolute Truth” Laurel struggled Alex looked at her OmniMech and saw it had taken a direct hit to the cockpit. He thought about her words and realized what she had meant the WarShip Absolute Truth above them was targeting their position with its weapons array turning the entire area into a live fire zone following Scientist General Gibson’s death.
“We need to move!” He said seeing Claire’s OmniMech fall to Society fire “Laurel, Grant, can you keep up Quiaff?”
“Aff, it looks worse than it is.” She confirmed
“Neg, knee actuator is gone” Grant replied as more naval fire landed in the area “go I’ll keep them at bay.” He called out continuing to fire at the Society ground forces in minutes Alex’s unit had been cut by two thirds with his own Mech and Laurel’s both damaged. Even as the Absolute Truth continued to bombard the region the two OmniMech’s ran through the fire heading into the nearby Wastelands naval weapons fire continued to fall on the base and near their position.
“How can they be tracking us?” Laurel wondered he could hear weakness in her voice he didn’t know how badly she was injured as they continued forwards. If the WarShip above continued to bombard the area they would eventually be caught by a barrage and killed. At the furthest reaches of his sensors Alex could see Society ProtoMech units loitering just outside the bombard zone.
“Incoming OmniMechs, Bravo Sierra, shut down your Nova CEWS.” A voice suddenly said breaking into their communications using the code Alex knew.
“We are not sharing data” Alex said not understanding them they didn’t use the C3 element of the Nova CEWS but the combined ECM and improved sensors still made it a potent tool.
“Neg, the Society can track it” the voice said as more naval weapons hit the ground around them both he and Laurel shutdown their systems moving into the Wastelands. Unfortunately even as Laurel shutdown the Nova CEWS her OmniMech staggered forward, tripped and then like someone who had consumed too much alcohol faltered and fell on its face.
I might be able to update a second time today depends if I'm able to finish it.
Clan Base
Wastelands, Babylon
Pentagon Worlds, Deep Periphery
2nd April 3108
MechWarrior Laurel slowly woke up on looking around the room seeing Star Colonel Alex Lassenem standing near the door the man who had led them undercover now fully cleaned up the beard hat had been growing now cut to a distinguished goatee. “Welcome back to the land of the living” he said.
“Thank you, sir” she said “did anyone else make it out?”
“Neg” he replied not moving from the door.
“Damn” she said trying to get up from the bed but feeling weak “what have the doctors said?” She asked
“You’ll recover” he said “they recovered your Mech as well.”
“Burn it” she said looking away from him “I don’t want to think about anything about my time with them.” She said Alex looked unhappy by her reaction but before he could speak a lower castemen appeared at the door.
“Star Colonel, you are needed” he said Alex nodded turning back to Laurel he nodded again before leaving the room. Alex moved through the facility to the command bunker and saw a hologram of Scientist General Michael Gibson.
“How is that son-of-a-bitch still alive?” Alex swore as he approached the hologram.
“He is not alive” the tech who sat in front of the rebel commander said Alex didn’t look off the hologram instead he waited for the tech to speak again. “It’s a recording form four years ago on Circe when someone took a pot shot at him and failed. They’ve put a filter on it and given him a bit of colour but it’s the same recording from Circe I guarantee it.” He said Alex overlooked the man’s contractions instead looking at the image.
“With them controlling the world media how are we ever going to break them” the base commander Beatrice said looking at Alex who didn’t look amused. “Sir, they will play this message over and over again until a new Scientist General is in place and then Gibson will quietly retire never to be seen again.”
“Then we make them see the truth, there’s no way he survived our assault.” He said as Gibson was replaced by a live feed of Scientist Leader Sophie O’Brien unlike Gibson she looked like she’d been through a battle the side of her face was badly bruised and it looked like her left arm was in a sling. “Her too” he said angrily “we need to finish this lie” he said looking at the image not listening to the Scientist’s words instead formulating a plan. “We take the broadcasting station and we upload my gun camera footage” he said “we show them Gibson’s death and the orbital bombardment that followed.”
“A suicide mission” Beatrice said looking at the Star Colonel she didn’t need to lose people to a fools mission.
“I will lead a small team” Alex Lassenem said
“Neg I will” Laurel announced she stood at the door Alex looked at her she could barely stand let alone fight. “I will lead the team and get the job done Star Colonel.”
“You can barely stand MechWarrior” he said looking away from her he hated to see her in this condition as she moved into the room.
“I’ll take stimulants to make it through” she said grabbing his arm as she got close he remembered the last time they were this close when they had shared his bed at the Society Base. “I can do this.”
“It is a suicide mission” Alex said looking at her he could feel her leaning on his body for support “to go on this mission you would have to take so many stimulants that it would kill you.”
“I’m dead already” Laurel said Alex realized that Laurel knew “I entered the Wastelands with a breached cockpit and a breached coolant suit.” She said “I absorbed enough radiation to kill ten men. It will come fast, it will be painful and it will not be honourable. I want to make a difference Alex.” She said he could see it in her eyes the pleading the desire to make a difference.
“Aff” he agreed “you will lead the assault team. Commander she will need two squads of volunteers and a Nighthawk suit arrange it.” He commanded Base Commander Beatrice nodded.
“We have a Turkina and a Timber Wolf for your use during the assault” she said offering him two front-line Clan OmniMechs to use against the Society.
“Neg, I will keep the Osteon. Paint it in our colours and have the Nova CEWS removed and give it an ECM system instead.” He commanded he didn’t exactly know why he wanted to keep the Osteon most Clan warriors would dislike his use of a Society Mech seeing it as unclanlike but it seemed to make sense he wasn’t exactly a conventional Clan Warrior any more. “We hit them tomorrow” he said making the choice for the assault he was Bloodnamed and a Star Colonel this was now his mission. “You get some rest” he said to Laurel leaning in and kissing her on the cheek he knew the other clansmen would look down on his attachment to her as well but he didn’t care she needed all the support she could get. He turned back around and saw Scientist General Gibson’s image was once again displayed and took a step towards it “we’re going to shed some light on you and your friends.”
Clan assault, Broadcast Centre
Babylon City, Babylon
Pentagon Worlds, Dee Periphery
3rd April 3108
The ten Nighthawks were crammed into the cargo hold of the armour transport waiting for the command to move out the driver turned in his seat “lock your suits no need for you to get injured in this” he commanded. Laurel didn’t need to check her suit even after taking enough stimulants to keep an Elemental standing the legs being locked were one of the few things keeping her standing. She knew beyond the infantry transport BattleMechs from the Clan and from the Society battled to control this part of the city of Babylon out there Star Colonel Alex Lassenem was leading this assault personally giving them the gap they needed for the assault on the Broadcast centre Laurel remembered what the tech had said.
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“The way the Society has set up communications on Babylon and beyond if we overrun their broadcast centre and get out program into their systems we will control their HPG. Every system across the Homeworlds will hear our message” he had announced confidently.
“What if the Absolute Truth opens up on the city? They will kill hundreds of thousands in minutes!” Commander Beatrice had suggested
“A win either way for us then” Star Colonel Alex Lassenem had said coldly eyes from across the room had turned on him and Laurel had remembered seeing an edge to the man she had not seen before. “If the Absolute Truth fires on the capital city and lays down a suppression bombardment we prove the Society care nothing for the people the news of Scientist General Gibson’s death will still get out but slower” he had suggested “if they fail to fire then we control their HPG even briefly and the word of Gibson’s death spreads quickly and the fires rebellion will flutter on a dozen worlds.”
“Is the price worth it” Laurel had wondered out loud.
“Victory is worth it” he had said shocking her “I do not want to witness first hand the Absolute Truth’s bombardment again but I do want to see the Society pay for all the deaths they have caused. I want to hurt them; I want to hurt them again and again.” She had remembered the look in his eyes, the anger, and the determination to get the job done whatever the cost she wasn’t afraid to admit it had actually scared her.
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“We’re a go!” The driver had shouted suddenly they felt the armoured transport shoot forward as the driver gunned the throttle and accelerated the vehicle forward. From her position half way across the cargo bay Laurel could feel the vehicle continue to accelerate she knew the plan and wasn’t looking forwards to it. The armoured transport continued forward its weapons blazing targeting enemy units as it charged across the battlefield passing enemy units and finally slamming through the blast resistant windows. Deep inside the hull of the vehicles the troopers who had locked their suits remained ridged inside unfortunately one of the suits clamps failed and the trooper flew across the crago slamming into other troopers and finally into the cargo bay bulkhead his health monitor immediately showing he was dead.
“GO! GO! GO!” Someone was shouting as the doors burst open the Nighthawks charged forwards out into the foyer of the broadcast centre. The vehicle driver was dead but amazingly the gunner was still alive and the vehicles weapons continued to fire suppressing the defenders. “We are going up first team go!” Two Nighthawk troopers stepped out of the line and threw their explosive charges onto the roof a two second delay blew the open the roof panels. Go!” The troopers collectively lit their jump jets jumping up onto the next level. “First team you hold this level next team charges point two.” He called out as the first two troops aimed their weapons at entry points two more troopers selected another area of the roof and placed their chargers blowing more holes in the roof. Laurel and the remaining six troopers jumped up again onto the next level. As they jumped a series of weapon hits struck the building blowing open the side of the building.
“I hope that was accidental” Laurel said out loud hoping that it wasn’t an indication that the Society had turned their guns on the building or the Absolute Truth had begun a bombardment.
“We don’t stop Sicknote!” The squad leader said “next team blow open the roof we’re going up! First team if you can disengage join us up here!” He commanded glancing behind them down the hole Laurel could see there was still heavy fighting on the level behind them as the next roof section was blown open further explosions hit the building from outside. “Go! Go! Go!” The commander shouted just as a weapon’s barrage ripped through the helmet section of his suit spraying the area in blood as the man was killed instantly. As the troopers jumped up onto the next level Laurel could sense hesitation in them as defenders on this level opened fire on them.
“You know your mission!” She shouted at them pulling a grenade from her belt throwing it with all her remaining strength at the defenders several others did the same. “We don’t stop!”
“FOR THE CAUSE!” The remaining five troopers shouted in unison firing their weapons with Laurel and throwing more grenades. Laurel leveled her Gauss SMG at the defenders and hammered a burst into the chest of one of the defenders killing him instantly. Even as they fired another trooper blew a hole in the roof clearing the way for them to move up.
“We have this level get the job done!” One of them said to Laurel as further explosions ripped through the broadcast centre. Redundantly she nodded something the other trooper would never see instead of saying anything she and two others jumped up onto the next level finding that weapons fire from outside had already ripped the level open they immediately jumped up through the smashed floor onto the next level.
“Blow it” Laurel ordered the remaining two troopers set their charges as Laurel unloaded shot after shot at anyone who moved on the level an explosion ripped open the roof above them and she didn’t wait Laurel instantly jumped her suit up onto the next level. She checked either side seeing the workers on this level running from the explosion and from the sight of her arrival. She checked her sensors this was the level she needed to be on glancing at the Gauss SMG she saw she was down to fifteen shots moving through the level towards the broadcast room suddenly what sounded like a support machine gun ripped through the office around her destroying the furniture. Using all her energy she dived to the side avoiding the fire rolling backwards turning towards the target she aimed her weapon and pulled the trigger a burst ripped into the room. Twelve shots left. She thought throwing caution to the wind she ran forwards as fast as she could charging into the room even as the defenders support machine gun spun up she could feel the bullets rip into her power armour suit pain riddling her body she tried to ignore the pain as she shot the remaining two defenders emptying her clip into them.
Laurel paused for a moment looking around the room seeing the two dead troopers she looked at the SMG and saw the indicator showed empty she threw the weapon down and staggered past the bodies and the defenders turret pushing past did as the tech had said entering the evidence card into the computer system. As expected the system instantly accepted the card and began to read it Laurel slid down the wall beside the transmission gear barely conscious as Sophie O’Brien entered the room her left arm still in the sling they had seen on the Tri-Vid she stopped seeing the dead defenders and Laurel’s suit against the wall she stalked over towards Laurel ripping the damaged Nighthawk helmet from the suit.
“You!” She nearly screamed seeing Laurel’s barely conscious bloodied face “do you have any idea what you have done?” She asked continuing to shout grabbing Laurel’s hair with her good arm. Unfortunately for her she didn’t see Laurel’s other arm raise holding a slug-thrower pistol.
“Yeah, I've screwed you life *****” Laurel said pulling the trigger immediately a burst of three shots ripped through Sophie’s chest and head killing Sophie O'Brien covering the room in yet more blood. Laurel reached for the suit’s helmet which Sophie had dropped when the bullets had hit her body. “Alex it’s done” she struggled out not knowing if the communication system on the suit still worked or if Alex Lassenem was still alive, it didn't matter, even if he had fallen their message was out their mission was done and with that Laurel passed out for the last time.
Side note the contractions in this update are intentional. The Nighthawk troopers are freeborns and Laurel didn't care any more
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And the rest...
Nova Cat Command
Farstar, Nova Cat Occupation Zone
Perihery
5th April 3108
“Welcome to Farstar” saKhan Katrine Devalis said welcoming the Sea Fox saKhan Blake Hawker to the Nova Cat planet.
“Thank you saKhan” he said “it feels nice to feel real gravity under my feet.” Normally he travelled on the Titanic, the Sea Fox ArcShip assigned to the Bloodscent Khanate, which was currently in orbit over Farstar ferrying down supplies to the Nova Cat’s ground base.
“I could make that a more permanent arrangement for you saKhan Hawker. I am ready to exchange one star system and all the resources in that system to Clan Sea Fox. In exchange I want…”
“Weapons” Hawker said looking at the Nova Cat saKhan “I know what you want saKhan Devalis you want to continue to hurt the Draconis Combine to fight until your candle burns out. If I did not know you are a Nova Cat I would have sworn there was Falcon or Jaguar blood in you.”
“Are you trying to insult me Blake?” She asked jokingly.
“Neg, just wishing to see how much it takes” he replied “the problem I foresee, Katrine, is how far you are willing to go? Your main goal appears to be how far you can push the Combine before the Dragon bites back.”
“They have been the subject to our aggression.” She admitted she was a Clan warrior to exercise some aggression was to be expected.
“Aff, and now you offer me a world within their grasp when I could easily withdraw into Jarnfolk space and sit comfortably.”
“Until the locals decide they’ve had enough of you.” She said seeing his surprise “come now you cannot be surprised that we know that the Jarnfolk are getting a little annoyed at your presence there. Something about trying to build weapons of mass destruction in their space” she said teasing the Nova Cats had heard that while the Jarnfolk were happy to help build JumpShips, DropShips, vehicles, fighters and small arms they had drawn a line at upgrading the facilities in their territory to build new WarShips which could be used against ground installations. “You do know you could build such facilities here in the system that we are willing to pass to you.”
“So you would have access to them?”
“My people could provide you with support. I have a yardship on its way to these systems as we speak courtesy of a successful Trial of Possession against the Bears. It could be instrumental in helping you construct such facilities and as a result we would like access to them aff.”
“But in Jarnfolk space we already have JumpShip yards to build on. All we have to do is control the population.”
“Which your Bloodscent does not have the firepower or the will to do” Devalis said quietly.
“Why? Your Nova Cats have extensive facilities in their Nova Cat’s Den. My Clan have only seen a fraction of the facilities you have why build more here?”
“My vessels in the OZ need constant maintenance after operations.” She explained Hawker knew there was more to it but also knew that his Clan could use access to new facilities. The Jarnfolk situation, and possibly the pacification that was required there, was one the Khan needed to authorize for now perhaps he could use the Nova Cat’s new generosity.
“I agree but there is a string attached.”
“Which is” Katrine asked dryly she was becoming tired of the Fox’s delays.
“We select the world that you trade to us, and you do not attack the Draconis Combine near that world. We are not interested in becoming caught in the crossfire between your Clan and them.”
“Agreeable” Katrine admitted “I was considering Falakuma” she suggested handing him an information pad “it has a small population and plenty of natural resources both on the planet itself and in the asteroids in the system.” She said as Hawker began looking over the information “it is also off my current path of aggression against the Draconis Combine.”
“I will look over this data and get back to you in six hours.” He promised her before leaving their command room. Within that time saKhan Hawker had replied to Katrine’s proposal and agreed for the Sea Foxes to take possession of Falakuma and provide her Nova Cats with the supplies that they needed. saKhan Hawker did note that the Sea Foxes were not yet committed to constructing a repair yard in her occupation zone but said that he would bring it up when he spoke with the other Khanate leaders.
Hell’s Horses offensive
Cumbres, Arc Royal Theatre
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
10th April 3108
Clan Hell’s Horses continue their assaults against the Lyran Commonwealth entering both the Cumbres and Dukambie, two systems lacking Lyran naval forces. In the Cumbres system the Fifth Donegal Guards RCT face off against three Elite clusters of Clan Hell’s Horses Stampede of Steel Galaxy. The regular rated RCT has little chance against the Hell’s Horses as they overwhelm and the Donegal Guards crushing the unit over the course of two weeks. Lyran attempts to resupply their ground forces are frustrated by the Tracy, an Essex-class Destroyer, and the Predator, a Lola III-class Destroyer. In the Dukambie system the Hell’s Horses the Formidable, an Arbitration-class Battleship, recently gained in a Trial of Possession in the Tukayyid system. To ensure that the Lyrans do not attempt to assault the ship with their Indefatigable-class Battleships the Hell’s Horses escort the Formidable with both of their Marathon-class Battle-cruisers. With such firepower present the system quickly falls to the Hell’s Horses as the Clan shows it has the firepower to oppose the Lyrans.
Pirate Point, Clarkston (Bug Eye-class Surveillance Craft)
Helen, Alya Prefecture
Dieron Prefecture, Draconis Combine
16th April 3108
There were two flashes of light as the Invader-class JumpShip and the Bug Eye-class Clarkston entered the Helen system at a rarely used pirate point. The massive Draconis Combine WarShip in the system would have detected their arrival but was far out of range and unable to cause them trouble for now. Hopefully at the range they were currently at the enemy WarShip’s sensors would detect only the Invaders and the DropShips it was now detaching. “Could we have been closer?” Captain Olivier Martinez wondered looking at his screens in the compact bridge section. The Bug Eye was smaller than most DropShips meaning everything was different on the ship which included the bridge. Unlike most interstellar craft the Bug Eye’s command section was in the front of the ship instead of buried under several decks and heavy armour and instead of having dozens of consoles the Bug Eye bridge had four command, helm/navigation, sensors/communication and weapons. “Mirror the DropShips path, as far as the Dracs are concerned we are one of those ships just slipping into the traffic of the belt.” He said the Bug Eye accelerated alongside the three DropShips heading into the asteroids.
“They are going to come looking for us” his executive officer Ben Sawyer said
“Which is why all three of the DropShips are civilian ships if the Combine comes looking all they will find is four new DropShips. While our sensors will eat up all the data they can on them.”
“And then the Combine will rumble us and we’ll be in lots of trouble” Sawyer said looking over towards his CO “this is a crazy plan, sir.”
“That’s why we get paid the big bucks” Martinez replied “now put us on course for the asteroids nothing crazy just enough to get us there today we’re slow boating it until we need to show our hand.” He commanded as the small six thousand ton WarShip moved towards the system’s belt.
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A week later the Clarkston was nearing the edge of the asteroid belt they had taken the longest possible route through the belt following known civilian shipping lanes and they had run continuous scans of the system and the Akagi as expected the WarShip had detected their powerful sensor array and come to investigate what was going on giving them an even better view. The ship was huge coming in at more than one and a half million tons on vessel it’s huge dominating ‘alligator’ head forward section marking its similarities to the Columbia and Mercury classes in operation by the Federated Suns. Along each of the ships flanks were massive fighter bays while the rear was dominated by four gigantic engine pods each capable of propelling the vessel at mindboggling speeds. The Clarkston had not witnessed the ship accelerate heavily, or use any weapons so all of their data was based off of the long range scans they had made of the ship as it approached the asteroid belt. “Turn us around take us back into the belt we don’t need to be caught in open space.”
“You think they suspect something?” Sawyer asked from the helm console in front of Martinez.
“I wouldn’t put it past them to stop every DropShip coming out of the belt and to land troops on the inhabited asteroids.” Martinez muttered as aerospace fighters deployed from under the nose of the massive ship. “We don’t need that attention pull us back we’ll power down in the belt if we need to just let them drift by.” He said as the small Bug Eye turned four of the aerospace fighters approached one of the inhabited asteroids. Before hitting the asteroid they quickly converted into BattleMechs making their landings.
“******* LAMs! She’s carrying ******* LAMs!” Emily Nelson at the sensor station exclaimed suddenly “a monster like that could carry two or three regiments of those things! They’ve turned her into a Super Kyushu!” She said naming the Draconis Combine frigate which most often carried the Combine’s LAM Regiments. While it was now common for all of the Succession States to use Land Air Mechs the Draconis Combine fielded them in entire regiments basing them off their WarShips for rapid assignments.
“CALM THE HELL DOWN!" Martinez shouted "Get your head in the game or we're dead. Now take us deeper into the asteroids!” Martinez ordered as the Clarkston continued to fall back “bring our guns online but keep them under wraps” he said as his sensor screen registered an explosion on the asteroid where the LAMs had landed while other Combine units were approaching the shipping lanes. The Clarkston’s weapons ports were hidden under blow away panels to hide her identity to a casual observer.
“More Land Air Mechs coming towards us” Nelson reported looking at her screens.
“The game’s up weapons fire as they approach, helm get us clear of the belt as quickly as you can and bring the jump drive online we’re getting the hell out of here.”
“It took us four days to get through the belt even at speed it’s going to take time!” Sawyer complained he didn’t mention that at the increased speed the Clarkston would be in far more danger of an accident.
“Forward guns target anything helm can’t avoid rear guns keep them off us.” Martinez ordered but he didn’t need to already Neil Tyson and Amelie Durand at the weapons stations had began to fire the Clarkston’s array of medium lasers. Since the vessel’s acquisition by the Federated Suns the Clarkston had been fitted with thirteen extended-range medium lasers and four anti-missile systems which replaced the vessel’s original armament. Now the four rear medium lasers were being fired nearly constantly blasting through the forward armour of the lead Wasp LAM coring the craft forcing it to crash into an asteroid, as the LAM hit the rock it disintegrated into a thousand pieces. Missiles from all angles approached the Clarkston but its anti-missile systems and Lamellor armour survived the hits the ship was taking.
Suddenly space around them turned to fire as the Akagi itself began to fire on the asteroid belt with an array of naval autocannons. “Well we can add those to the list of capabilities!” Sawyer said rolling the Clarkston under a huge asteroid which moments later was shattered by naval autocannon fire. “Sir, we can’t survive this kind of punishment” he said as more LAMs closed in.
“We don’t need to for long” Martinez said looking at his screens at the speed they were going they would enter a large open area of space within minutes. “Once clear of the belt I need you to stop manoeuvring and pour on the speed.”
“We’ll be sitting ducks” Sawyer stated
“Not if the other DropShips have done their jobs.” Martinez said keying the comm. switch “Roman Candle, Roman Candle, Roman Candle!” He repeated on an open frequency. The three civilian DropShips were not exactly civilian craft instead each had been fitted with banks of capital missiles. While the Clarkston had been taking its time through the asteroid belt the three DropShips had gone to ‘ground’ landing on some of the larger asteroids powering down their systems to run as cold as they could. Now all three ships opened their launch bay doors and like a Roman Candle of ancient Terra each opened fire with their weapons filling the belt with capital missiles. Some were targeted on the LAM craft in the belt while others were targeted on the Akagi as they approached the WarShip its anti-missile systems engaged them shooting several down. DropShips attached to the WarShip moved to intercept further missiles one or more of them was loaded with a special surprise and the Clarkston’s crew was rewarded by witnessing a thermo nuclear explosion from a Santa Ana-class nuclear warhead. “Eat that you big bastard!” Martinez cursed as the Clarkston cleared the asteroid belt another LAM exploded behind them struck by a capital missile fired from one of the DropShips “blow up come on blow up!” Martinez cursed looking at the sensor screen unfortunately the big WarShip rolled through the nuclear fire its armour ablaze for a moment in the vacuum of space and then darkened again as the flames were snuffed out. The DropShips had done their job intercepting the missiles before they could get near the WarShip saving the Akagi from the worse of the damage. “Cut engines, begin jump prep” Martinez commanded breaking away from the sensor screen “weapons keep an eye out for any remaining LAMs” he said but suddenly no-one was interested in them now the attention of the LAM units and of the Akagi’s gunners was on the three DropShips, the crews had no chance of escape their JumpShip had left the system days before and Clarkston couldn’t carry them. Naval autocannon, missile and gauss rifle poured through the asteroids smashing the DropShips one by one. Their crews continued to fire their capital missiles up until the last DropShip was eliminated by a group of Land Air Mechs that had converted to BattleMech mode and walked up to the DropShip kicking in its cargo bay doors so the Mech’s could fire inside the craft eliminating the crew and the DropShip’s weapons.
“Let us take a moment to remember our fallen comrades and give thanks for their sacrifice” Amelie Durand said glancing down for a moment none of the crew disagreed. If the Clarkston had remained undetected the DropShips would not have been needed but each of their crews had known that the Bug Eye had to escape the system so when the time came they had done their duty.
“Now get us the hell out of here” Martinez said after the silence had passed he looked at his screens again looking at the sensor image of the DCS Akagi. “I’ll see you again I promise.” He said knowing that the Clarkston was not finished with the Draconis Combine vessel.
Oriente Counter-attack
Glasgow Commonality, Capellan Confederation
24th April 3108
While Oriente had been invaded and threatened the District continues its plans for a counter strike using the new BattleMechs, Armour and fighters gained from the Federated Suns. With the Fourth Fusiliers of Oriente and Alpha Regiment of the Wolf’s Dragoons in support the newly risen/reinforced Fourth, Fifth, Sixth and Seventh Militia Regiments of Oriente invade Old Kentucky, Wazan, Phact and Corey with the Sixth Capellan Defence Force and the Fifth Liao Lancers Regiments destroyed on Old Kentucky by the Wolf’s Dragoons with the Athena, a Dire Wolf-class Heavy Cruiser, in support providing air superiority. With no capital assets of their own and their ground forces picked to pieces by the Dragoons the Capellans have no choice but to surrender to the Oriente and mercenary forces.
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O0 ;D nice upate!
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A Bug-eye versus the Akagi. I wonder what Martinez has planned.
Oriente revitalised, this will upset the Cappies.
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Cappies have been very uppied. We haven't heard much from the Confederation side of the house.
Homeworld situation is very odd, thou we want the Clans to survive. If they survive, we don't know what they will become.
They've have been changed since being nearly pushed to extinction and reorganizing into "Clan" non-name on FASA.
Thrilling Double Entry, DragonCat!
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I see CHH is gaining more resources...
TT
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good to see the WD kicking someone's teeth in, again.
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Damn superb updates! Very tense battle with the Akagi too!
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hi. i registered today. and i wanted to say thank you to dragoncat!!!!! i been reading silently on this forum for some years now. i discovered your timeline in december. And reading it brought me through two hospital stays in december. It is an awesome piece of work and i HAD to make this my very first post. I hope, you and the others can keep up the awesome work. O0 O0 O0
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I'm glad you have enjoyed the timeline and I hope you continue to
The support this timeline gets really makes me proud and want to do more I'm glad my little obsession is enjoyed by others
I'd also like to thank all of those who have contributed New ideas and adding things over the years yes YEARS this has been going on it's been incredible.
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And I'm sure now that the Nova Cat forces under the SaKhan are going to break away. They've got a yardship, they've got a reliable source of replacement Mech's etc with the Sharkfoxes. Not sure about the Iron wombs but the Foxes can provide those. And there might be some warriors from within the Nova cats heading up to join, being released to choose their own path rather than risk a civil war between the new Clan and the Nova Cats.
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Welcome to the boards GermanSumo.
Interesting times with the Nova Cats, that's for sure.
I wonder what is happening with the Mountain Wolves. Either they're about to do something incredibly daring or or stupid. Either way, will be watching them closely.
James Tanaga
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James Tanaga they are going to the Rim Collection I decided that their McKenna would look good over All Dawn with their particle cannons firing... (joking)
As for the other comments I'll answer questions about things that has happened and things that are going on but future storylines I'm going to give a familiar answer... I have a plan
Please feel free to speculate though I enjoy reading some of the theories you come up with and they occasionally give me ideas
Short update mostly setting up more things to come
Combat Drop, Nova Cat Watch
Tamar, Tamar City
Clan Occupation Zones
2nd May 3108
The sky over Tamar City was full of Nova Cat DropShips and aerospace fighters as the Clan’s four Watch Clusters made combat drops in and around the city. In every radio in the area Khan Canin Rosse's voice filled the airwaves “Citizens of Tamar City this is Khan Canin Rosse Clan Nova Cat claim possession of this city. Continue to attend you work places and do not cause any civil disturbances and this occupation will go smoothly. Clan Coyote forces you have one hour to vacate Tamar City otherwise your forces will be subject to Trials of Possession. Star Colonel Adam Jericho Clan Nova Cat declares a Trial of Possessions for the entire production run at Construction Facility Seven and ProtoMech factory Alpha. Your forces will meet mine at the plains south of Tamar City in two hours. Khan Canin Rosse out.” He said as the Khan’s personal Dragon Cat OmniMech landed near the administration centre for Tamar City.
As expected the Coyotes put up no resistance to the Nova Cat occupation of the city leaving it to Clan Nova Cat for them to use it as their base of operations. Two hours after the initial Clan Nova Cat landings token Coyote forces met with the Nova Cats outside Tamar City with both forces surrendering after very short fights. The Nova Cats took the surviving warriors as abtakha while also taking control over both factories immediately raising a new cluster from the newly taken Coyotes, bondsmen and recently graduated warriors who had travelled with the Nova Cat forces.
Firefight, Omicron Solahma Garrison
South Lapiz, Blue Hole
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
19th May 3108
With Clan Nova Cat beginning operations against the Society in the Coyote Occupation Zone Clan Jade Falcon make a move against their own cell of Society collaborators. What starts as a surgical strike against the command of the Omicron Galaxy Solahma Cluster command quickly extends to a battle between the entire unit and the Fourth Falcon Jaegers Cluster which was also based on Blue Hole. In a six hour battle the Solahma Cluster and its entire support structure are wiped out by the Fourth Jaegers who leave no survivors. Across the Jade Falcon occupation zone dozens of civilians including many merchants and scientists are eliminated by Jade Falcon military units. Other Clan and Inner Sphere Intelligence Agencies note that several of those killed by the Jade Falcons are known for their rebellious attitudes towards Clan rule but lack known Society connections.
Terrorist Activity
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
22nd May 3108
A DropShip falls from the sky obliterating the planetary spaceport at Promise Point on Izar killing nearly three thousand civilians and causing billions of Kroner of damage. A major trade centre on Carnwath is incinerated by a fuel-air explosion. And a nuclear power plant on Zebeneschamali explodes with the core melting down causing massive casualties, radiation and damage to one of the planet’s major cities. Each of these attacks occur within hours of each other and each is followed by substantial pirate raids against planetary militia forces attempting to help those who are affected causing yet more damage, confusion and loss of life.
Planetary battlefield
Deneb Kiatos, Alya Prefecture
Dieron Military District, Draconis Combine
25th May 3108
The star system of Deneb Kiatos was filled with fire as the Fourth Deneb Light Cavalry RCT returned to their homeworld for the first time in years. In orbit the Tatsumaki II-class Destroyers DCS Shinanon and DCS Tsutuji faced a losing battle against the First Prince II-class Battleship FSS Hanse Davion II and the Congress II-class Frigate FSS Hotspur. While in the atmosphere aerospace fighters battled for control over the skies closer to the DropShips Major Maksims Posadskovs turned his fighter in tight turns maintaining a close patrol of the regiment’s transports as they came in for a landing.
“Incoming conventional aerospace fighters and VTOL craft from the north First Battalion turn to repel them.” Colonel Lisa Weir commanded “Second Battalion you get first crack on the ground don’t squander it give us a beachhead.”
“Aye Colonel” Posadskovs replied turning his fighter towards the ground switching frequencies as he did “alright boys and girls last one on the deck buys the beers” he transmitted. As his aircraft closed on the ground Posadskovs flicked a switch on the side of his cockpit turning his Phoenix Hawk LAM from its aerospace fighter mode into an AirMech with the BattleMech’s leg’s extending from the fighter’s body and the fighter’s body beginning to show BattleMech characteristics. Moments later Posadskovs flicked another switch and his AirMech completed its conversion to a normal BattleMech coming in for a landing on twin jets of fire.
On the ground Major Posadskovs scanned the area as other Land-Air Mechs of his battalion came in for their landings around the area clearing the way for the DropShips. On his right he saw a glint of light as a Saracen hovertank flashed into view targeting his position with a flight of long range missiles. Posadskovs didn’t wait returning fire immediately with his LAM’s Extended-Range Large Laser the red beam of light and energy cut through the air linking the LAM and the hovercraft for a moment. The laser burned through the LAM’s armour finding a weak point causing a fiery explosion as the laser punctured the ammunition bay of the hovercraft marking the first ground-bound enemy destroyed by the Deneb Light Cavalry since returning to their homeworld.
Following their landings the AFFS unit quickly moved across the planet as familiar to them as any other in the Inner Sphere. With the native population quickly turning against the occupying forces the Second Dieron Regulars Regiment and the Nineteenth Ghost Regiment are unable to stop the elite Light Cavalry and are quickly destroyed by the AFFS units. With cheering crowds marking every street across the planet Deneb Kiatos is an important publicity victory for the Federated Suns making a far greater mark than any tactical victory which is important as Draconis Combine Mustered Society units continue to raid along the Draconis March border capturing Mata and Romam while weakening the defences on Ronel and Tybalt.
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Nice update! another terrorist strike, this time in the Isle of Skye? hmm... And the hunt for Society members in Clan Space heats up! Keep the stories
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Very full of action. I like! Thou i find Cat's have it bit easy. :o
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It's always good to see a First Prince II giving out lot's of love.
Terrorists in the Isle of Skye, looking forward to seeing what your plan is there DC. >:D O0
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Shadow_Wraith/Snakespinner - the Isle of Skye problems will go on for a while
Wrangler - I think I mentioned in the PM Tamar is only temporarily a Nova Cat holding only until the Society are gone then it goes back to the Coyotes. The trials were for show and 'honour' little more
Archon’s Palace
Arcturus, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
3rd June 3108
“What do you mean the Hyper Pulse Generator on Gallery and three other worlds have gone dark?” Archon Jessica Steiner demanded of her communication’s advisor Nina Gold who suddenly looked far paler than she had when she entered.
“Khan Evan Kell informed us of the failure in the early hours of this morning. Sabotage he said” Gold replied after a moment to compose her thoughts “he said that Gallery will maintain communication with the Commonwealth via the HPG on board the Werewolf until the planetary centre is repaired. He has offered to send WarShips or JumpShips equipped with HPGs to other systems to assist in our communications nation wide.”
“And as my communications advisor do you believe that this is an acceptable course of action for your Archon?” Steiner demanded rising from her throne chair looking at her other advisors suddenly taking her wrath off Gold. “In the last month there have been terrorist strikes in Skye and now four worlds are cut off from the rest of the Commonwealth and my only solution is to lean on Clan Mountain Wolf for support.” She said angrily the Clansmen had barely communicated with the Commonwealth since her failed bid to bring them into the LCAF. “Is there another option?” She demanded looking at General of Armies Aiden Gray.
“Yes, we leave them dark and pass messages by courier JumpShip.” He said going with the simple option “it keeps Kell on the outside and buys you time to get communications back online. If it is a longer repair then we bring Kell in and his Wolves get a little piece of the overall prize.”
“Seems prudent” Steiner admitted “what about these terrorist attacks where are we on finding and eliminating them.”
“Our biggest problem currently is we are not sure if there is a ‘them’ to target” Mathias Otto, the head of Intelligence, explained “each of the attacks we are certain originated out with the Lyran Commonwealth but one was funded off of Orestes in the Rasalhague Dominion, another off Kessel in the Combine and the third from within the Star League Protectorate. We do not believe these three nations are working together against us only that perhaps someone behind the scenes is pulling their strings.”
“And this someone?”
“Still unknown” Otto replied
“And Skye is cooperating?”
“Duchess Aten is cooperating fully with our investigations. She even provided us with additional supplies” Otto answered “it seems that Skye and Arcturus interests are travelling in the same direction.”
“That makes a nice change” Jessica Steiner said rubbing her hand against the side of her head she felt a migraine coming on she had been up for sixteen hours monitoring reports of Hell’s Horses raids against Lyndon, Kelenfold and Surcin. The Clan had not attempted to take any of the worlds instead it had just caused a little trouble then left it was like the Horses were toying with her nation and she felt like biting at someone.
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Across the Commonwealth at the same time Khan Evan Kell had also had a long day in what was probably going to be his last days as Khan of the Mountain Wolf Clan in fact it would be the last days of the Clan in its entirety. Walking across the Mechbay on Gallery towards his Lycurgus Assault OmniMech he already knew that two Clusters of his Clan would not be accompanying his Clan on their new exodus and he knew that many others would likely die in the coming weeks are they attempted to reintegrate into Clan Wolf. But there was no going back now they had already burned their bridges with the Lyran Commonwealth by attacking for Hyper Pulse Generators in the Halfway Province. Once communication was restored the truth would come out that it wasn’t terrorists that caused the damage but member of Clan Mountain Wolf’s Touman.
It had been a hard decision to abandon the plan that his parents and Ulric Kerensky had come up with to split Clan Wolf sundering the Clan’s strength when the Clan invasion needed it the most. His Mountain Wolves could not survive on their own with the world of Gallery the only one to sustain them and no additional money and supplies coming in from the banks and the mercenary trade of Arc Royal there his Clan were slowly dying. There was only so much he could trade to the Sea Foxes, the most recent item being the Arc Royal his Clan’s Coventry-class Corvette, in exchange he had gained additional DropShips so nothing was left on Gallery and an additional supply of HarJel as a ransom for the Wolf Clan not the grand prize he had hoped to bring the Wolves but a start.
Climbing into the Lycurgus’ cockpit he activated his communication system and gave his final order as Khan to leave Gallery for the last time. Their next stop would be the Clan Wolf capitol world of Sheridan deep inside the Wolf Empire.
Capellan Command
Forbidden City, Sian
Sian Commonality, Capellan Confederation
17th June 3108
“Why are they still able to resist us?” Dao-Shen Liao asked his wife and military leader Erin Liao. As they stood looking at the map of conflict in the centre of the room displayed on the large computer screen was the Oriente/Confederation border with five worlds burning showing conflict. Two caused by the Confederation and three caused by Oriente and Regulus three further worlds on the Regulus/Canopus border burned as the Magistracy of Canopus attempted to assist the Capellans.
“Davion and Regulus are supporting them and they gain additional resources through the Star League Defence Force despite their claims to not be against us Kittery is not following the direction of Terra.” Erin explained “We’ve lost the fight on Las Halles and Galloway VI there is no way back for our troops I have already ordered our people back into friendly systems.” She said briefing her husband “Varna and Hassad will fall to us by the end of the month and I believe the Magistracy can capture both Kearny and Cirebon…” She said hesitating before speaking again.
“Continue I will not hold anything against you for saying what you believe needs said”
“I do not believe we can sustain this conflict” she said finally “our resources are dwindling faster than those of the nations against us.”
“You are right which is why I have planned for one final strike” he said looking at her pointing at a single remaining system she expected it to be Fletcher or Oriente but instead he pointed at New Delos. “We will break the District of Oriente literally.”
“But they will still be connected politically” she pointed out just because their territory was split it didn’t mean that suddenly the nation would fall to pieces the St Ives Compact for example had held together far beyond the slitting of the nation and Star League Protectorate worlds were often separated by dozens of light-years yet they cooperated.
“Yes, but it will signal to the ‘top’ of the nation that Oriente only cares for itself. Regulus will welcome worlds with open arms and forget their fight with us the more Oriente haemorrhages the more they grow. The Federated Suns will seize the dream of rebuilding the fallen Sarna March internal division between Sarna and Kathil will divide their attention and we will have time to rebuild.”
“Divide and conquer” she said thinking over the Chancellor’s idea it could work. Oriente’s allies were only allies because it was benefiting them Regulus, the FedRats and the Star League were all benefiting from the fight between Oriente and the Confederation. “New Delos will not fall easily.”
“It doesn’t need to fall easily” he said confidently “it just needs to make a point” he said flicking his fingers. Off to the side the aide cut off the map giving the impression that Dao-Shen’s ‘click’ had ended the map.
Anti-Society Operation
Weston Forge, Laurent
Coyote Occupation Zone
23rd June 3108
Dezgra was the term used to name the Nova Cat’s Third Watch Cluster. Each of their Mechs carried the name every member of the unit wore the stigma of being dezgra because it allowed them to serve their Clan a little longer. The Third Watch Cluster had the highest average age of all currently active clusters in the Nova Cat Touman with an average age of forty-two years. But unlike other units with such a record the entire unit was equipped with advanced BattleMechs all designed to serve as part of this unit and this unit alone. When the other Clans had discovered the existence of the Third Watch Cluster they had demanded that it never be used against a Clan target – the Society were not Clan.
Now Star Colonel Franka West crouched near the road with the other Nighthawk PA(L) suits of her point they were the Elementals of her two stars were ready to act when called on. Along the road moved elements of the 202nd Battle Cluster of Clan Coyote their target. Franka watched the range tick down waiting until the entire enemy Supernova Trinary and the convoy they were escorting. “Drop the anvil” she commanded the BattleMechs each hidden by null signature systems in a single move both in front and behind the Coyote formation a two binaries made up of Exterminators and Spectors jumped into the front and rear of the Coyote formation while Liberators rose either side sealing the ambush. “I am Star Colonel Franka West commanding all elements of the 202nd to stand down now.”
“Your use of stealth systems marks you as bad as those you claim as targets you could do so much more if you joined with these men and women.” A male voice said from one of the armoured transports.
“We may be two sides of the same coin but we know our duty and where our loyalties lie. 202nd we have you dead to rights surrender NOW.” Franka West commanded for a second final time, a final time.
“Surrender and you die!” The male voice said again this time his words brought actions particle cannons, lasers, missiles and autocannons quickly filled the sky. Several of Spector’s fell instantly as did two of the Liberators on the flanks but the return fire from the Third Watch devastated the defenders with missiles and laser fire from the Nova Cats cutting down multiple BattleMechs within seconds.
As the BattleMechs fought on each side of them the Nighthawks moved in from the sides two starts of Nova Cat Elementals concentrating fire with a single point taking down each defending Coyote Elemental. With the Elementals eliminated quickly and the battle still raging around them Star Colonel Franka West and her troopers moved vehicle to vehicle executing the crews of the armoured transports and checking them for munitions and prisoners. On the three centre vehicles of the seven vehicle convoy the Nova Cats found several Scientists from Clan Coyote including former Scientist General Helena one of the known Society leaders.
The spectacular success on Laurent comes at the right time as a similar operation on Mortiz goes horribly wrong and the entire Nova Cat Second Watch Cluster along with two Clan Coyote Clusters are completely wiped out when a Society Cell detonate a biological weapon in the atmosphere when forced to retreat. Within a week the whole world of Mortiz is placed under quarantine as the biological contagion spreads through the world’s small population like wildfire. By the end of August the world is essentially dead.
Under the guise of assisting the Coyotes against suspected Society units Clan Hell’s Horses move on the systems of Zoetermeer and Vulcan taking both fully under Horse control destroying the Eight Recon Cluster with overwhelming firepower. In an almost perfectly mirrored move the Rasalhague Dominion take control over the systems of Hohenhems and Basiliano again using the premise of fighting off suspected Society and insurgent forces. As the appointed leader of the efforts against the Society Khan Canin Rosse of Clan Nova Cat warn both Clans that further assaults on Coyote territory will be met by far greater force stating that their actions threaten to allow Society units to slip through the tightening net the Clans have cast for them. No action is taken against either Clan for the worlds that have already fallen to either the Horses or Bears.
Author note
I know the Mountain Wolf solution is not the ideal one. I had several options for them and I'll be honest I didn't know what I wanted to do for a good while. Here's some of the ideas I considered:
1) they stay the way they are essentially becoming part of the LCAF but also a wildcard like the canon Wolf (in-Exile) or Nova Cat Clans. I like this AU to try and take some different paths than canon so I ruled it out quick
2) they escape into the periphery - I had a storyline I was considering with the periphery for the distant future that I've now abandoned. But there's a second storyline I am actively pursuing along similar lines. The Mountain Wolves could have fit into that they could have been angry enough at the Inner Sphere for the state they were left in to turn their backs on them and go nuts. But it would have felt... wrong. You'll understand if the timeline gets that far (late 3120s) it would have felt like I took them that way because I needed their firepower and numbers to make that story work when I really don't.
3) they go into the Star League Protectorate. I seriously pursued this idea for a good while there is already Clan forces on New Earth (around a crashed WarShip). I could link the Mountain Wolves to them and over time they become SLDF units part and parcel with the rest of the Protectorate. Despite the similarities to the Republic foundation idea I kind of liked this idea for a while.
4) they return to the Wolves. You might think this is the cheats finish for the Mountain Wolves - it sort of it and sort of isn't. It's going to add a dimension to the core Wolf Clan we haven't seen for a while a division between Crusader and Warden (although those concepts have long been abandoned by the Wolves they care about themselves more than anyone else nowadays) it's going to give the Wolves back some of their character, give us some stories to tell inside the Wolf Empire and put a twist on their charging Clan machine. It also gives Clan Wolf TWO McKennas...
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id rather seen them find some old RRW worlds and claim them
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very well and nice update, dragon cat. you got me cold. as i was reading the part with jessica i was like "aaahhhh this dumbass. now shes burning the very last hope of reconciling with the mountain wolves" .... and THEN the twist :D you got me there ;D ;D O0 O0 O0 O0 O0
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I thought that the Mountain Wolves had part ownership of a warship yard?
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Not a Fan of going back to the brutal crusader Wolves.
Going into the Deep Periphery and rebuilding is the most appealing to me.
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Well ok, as long as Kell lives or they still make new subkoes with his genes. I like the guy and I can understand were he is coming from. From the way I read it I mean it felt like the LC basically said "tough luck" and did basically nothing for them when they were kicked off of ArcRoyal. THey did so much for them and for them to get that in return, yea, i was super pissed to. Just hope they are welcomed back more than just spit at and hated. I doint know what way it will go but ether way it will make for great story telling .
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I really liked the idea of going into the periphery.
They could rebuild and come back in the future or find some hidden gem of a world left over by Amaris.
I really was hoping you would make them truly independent but if it cannot be bad luck. :'( O0
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While I kind of wish they went out with a bang (and they still might, depending on how this ends up), the end result of the warden wolves makes sense to me, they haven't been at such direct odds with the crusader wolves for quite some time, and it is kind of like they are coming home.
As for the glut of updates over the last couple weeks, keep up the good work, things continue to be interesting. :D
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Yeah more Horse victories!
I also would like the Mountain Wolves to move on and not re-join the Crusaders.
TT
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Very good updates and i'm surprised at the decision to go back to the Wolves, but I accept and support it. I take it that its going to be a case of "Cram everything of value onto the Full Moon" and leave with what escorts they can muster? Sweetening the pot with the Harjel, the Werewolf Full Moon and Inflexible and those that survive the Trials that no doubt will happen. The problem is getting the Empire to listen. I doubt they will react calmly when a trio of WarShips pops into Sherridan.
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Very good updates and i'm surprised at the decision to go back to the Wolves, but I accept and support it. I take it that its going to be a case of "Cram everything of value onto the Full Moon" and leave with what escorts they can muster? Sweetening the pot with the Harjel, the Werewolf Full Moon and Inflexible and those that survive the Trials that no doubt will happen. The problem is getting the Empire to listen. I doubt they will react calmly when a trio of WarShips pops into Sherridan.
I was wondering was there any idea to join the Wolf's Dragoons?
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I was wondering was there any idea to join the Wolf's Dragoons?
Becoming mercenaries may not have set well with them
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I will also add my disappointment that Mountain Wolf are going back to the Clan Wolf. I would rather see them like many others head to the Rim and regroup themselves or join with Rim Collection.
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Just to point this out, but going to the Rim Collection likely wouldn't go well, they would simply be immediately absorbed into the Fire Mandrills (who already have a fairly significantly sized touman - their really only lacking in fleet assets). With only 2 galaxies worth of troops, their only real recourse to remain clan at all is to be absorbed by one group or another, that they have survived as a (semi) independent entity this long really only goes to show how weak the Lyrans truly are or have been. It seems that the choice was either the devil they know, or the devil they don't know, and, as is typically the case, they went with the devil they knew.
Looking at the options DC gave them here's how I see them:
1) Rehash of canon, boring, probably eventually being completely absorbed into the LAAF.
2) The Mountain Wolves are wardens, leaving the Inner Sphere is anathema to how I view them, they aren't that mad at them.
3) A decent option, but I think they likely would have again been absorbed into the larger group and lost their clan-ness. It also would have likely led them into direct conflict with the regular Clan Wolf, something that a portion of them may rail against, leading to a possible crackdown doing to them what the Combine did to the Nova Cats in canon.
4) Has the capability of them influencing the clan that is most close to taking Terra (at the moment at least). This means that if the Wolves do take Terra they have a greater ability to influence the results of the capture. This also pushes the Wolves towards their old selves which I find more appealing, another moderate clan, and well positioned has loads of potential in the setting.
Overall, I like the potential in this move, and look forward to seeing how it pans out.
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First I want to say wow I expected a response from this storyline but not quite as many or as diverse. I'm glad you have all been willing to share your opinions on what is a very minor faction in this AU.
Second if any of TPTB have ever read this storyline and had a little giggle at this fan's attempt at creating a different storyline I want to say I think for the first time I'm beginning to get where you guys are coming from when you do something a little controversial. (I'm very happy people are sharing their opinions though)
Time to do a little explaining (not something I do much but it maybe puts a reason behind some of why this has gone this way.
A long, long time ago when I first thought up this storyline the Wolf (in-Exile) Clan actually returned to the Clan fold and became part of their society once more with their own territory carved out of the Lyran Commonwealth. They became heroes of a future conflict that is no longer happening.
Then a while ago I decided that Clan Jade Falcon really had to justify its existence and make a point with the Lyrans taking Arc Royal threatening Coventry, Donegal, Tharkad, Odessa and Arcturus. My original plan was to kill the Mountain Wolves in one final battle but then I sort of wavered (I like Evan Kell...) Now I'm not replacing Amina with Evan but I am going to add a new edge to the Wolf Clan (and the Wolves know they are coming). There's also the two clusters that have been left in the Commonwealth they've got a story coming too.
As for going into the Periphery you would have hated that storyline (I did) it went one of two ways a) they were absorbed by another faction (that no-longer exist and were part of the future conflict that is also no longer happening) or b) they went into the periphery and died. The Mountain Wolves had the same problem as the Star League in Exile they had more warriors than farmers and would have torn themselves to pieces and died. As for taking a Rim Worlds holding the Stone Spirits, Clan raiders and other raiders would have nipped at them while they tried to plant crops until they died) I didn't want that to happen
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An in universe Intelligence Report written by marauder648 and edited by me some truth, some not
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=56648.new#new (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=56648.new#new)
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Border raids
Small World, Alya Prefecture
Draconis Combine
4th July 3108
The border fighting continues between the Draconis Combine and the Federated Suns despite the efforts of Star League Protectorate diplomats to bring them back to the negotiating table. As the Draconis Combine attack Mallory’s World and Mara while Mordecia Sandoval leads troops to Small World and other AFFS units liberate Hean and Ankaa. The Fifth Tikonov Cossacks RCT and the First Albion Military Cadre push the DCMS units out of the Mallory’s World system but Mara falls to the DCMS.
DropShip Interception, WarShip Tetrarch
Quarell system Coyote OZ
Clan Occupation Zone
9th July 3108
The Nova Cat WarShip Tetrarch had been tasked with stopping any DropShip from leaving the surface of Quarell and it had failed an Overlord C had been able to take off from the planet and was now heading towards the jump point. “DropShip Aquidaban this is the Nova Cat WarShip Tetrarch stand down your propulsion for inspection. If you surrender you will come to no harm.” The WarShip’s communications officer said as the Battle-cruiser chased down the rogue Overlord C. The DropShip continued on its ballistic course away from Quarell “this is your last warning stand down your engines or face immediate action.” She said looking at the screens.
“Forward particle cannons on target prepare to fire weapons.” Star Admiral Braddick Leroux ordered from the centre of the room near the vessel’s holo-table.
“Sir, engines on Aqudaban have cut we are detecting zero forward thrust, they are not gaining speed” the communications officer said “they are also no breaking.”
“Communications have them counter-rotate and slow their speed.” Leroux ordered “weapons remain hot fire if you see anything out of the ordinary.” As the message passed to the Overlord C the DropShip slowly began to turn then there was a small explosion on the side of the DropShip as one of its engine thrusters exploded sending the DropShip into a spin. “Analysis?”
“Engine thrusters has blown under stress they’ll be lucky to recover themselves.”
“Deploy a pair of Battle Taxis have them attach lines and stabilize craft.” Leroux reported as the DropShip continued to spin slow our speed. He commanded from mid way along the hull of the Tetrarch a pair of ovoid shaped Battle Taxi craft moved clear from the Battle-cruiser and began approaching the stricken DropShip.
“Active weapon locks!” The sensor operator called out moments later as lasers and missiles tore from the DropShip striking the two Battle Taxis and lancing out at the Tetrarch. “Holy crap… capital missiles!” He called out as two Killer Whale capital missiles flew out of what would have been DropShip’s Mechbay. The two missiles were targeted on the Tetrarch and flew straight towards the nose of the WarShip moments later the automated Laser Anti-Missile Systems swatted both missiles out of space.
“Take it out” Leroux ordered and the four forward Heavy Naval Particle Cannons shot from the front of the WarShip and blew the Overlord C in half. “Recall the Battle Taxis” Leroux ordered watching the expanding balls of metal realizing that if this WarShip had been a traditional Clan WarShip it could have been significantly damaged by the surprise attack from the missiles.
On the planet’s surface factions of the Society detonated several large bombs on the planet significantly damaging Quarell’s infrastructure and killing hundreds of civilians in collateral damage. The bombs are however the last resistance on Quarell as Coyote Elementals and ProtoMechs with Jade Falcon vehicle support wipe out the remaining resistance.
[b[Hall of Khans, Clan Wolf Hall
Sheridan, Wolf Empire
18th July 3108[/b]
Stepping into the Wolf Hall on Sheridan Evan Kell paused at the doorway and allowed the two armoured Elementals to decided if they would follow him or not when neither moved he walked into the room joining the two Khans present. “The Mountain Wolves stand ready to serve” he announced handing over the information of what he brought to the Clan after months of discussion he and Amina Kerensky had decided that she was the Khan of Clan Wolf and it would remain that way.
“Thank you Galaxy Commander” Amina Kerensky said using the Mountain Wolf leader’s new rank “welcome to Sheridan.” She said handing over the datapad to her saKhan.
“Running back into the den with your tail tucked neatly between your legs.” saKhan Fredrick Ward said glancing over the information. “There are only ten clusters listed? I thought there would be twelve?” He said looking at Amina and then to Evan “did the Lyrans nursemaids cause you troubles?”
“Neg, both clusters chose to remain in the Lyran Commonwealth along with approximately twenty-five thousand civilians who believed their paths remained aligned with House Steiner.”
“Could not control your own people?” Ward taunted “perhaps it is correct that you surrendered your position.”
“The warriors that remained were little more than Solahma warriors all of them adhere to the old Warden ways while the civilians are simply more mouths to feed. Tell me Fredrick Ward would they have been welcome here?” Kell shot back while Amina Kerensky remained aloof of discussion watching them.
“There are many who do not want any of you here. And now that you are here you will have to live by the Clan rules of life and of war.”
“Your honesty is appreciated saKhan Ward” Kell said deciding to make his first choice as a Wolf warrior “and since we are living by Clan rules I challenge you to a Circle of Equals.” He said looking at saKhan Fredrick Ward who looked shocked at the sudden change in direction of their discussion. Amina Kerensky remained silent continuing to observe.
“For what reason I am the saKhan of Kerensky’s Wolves you cannot just challenge me you need a reason Galaxy Commander.”
“Fine I see you as a threat to my Galaxy and my people; I dislike your tone and your words while talking to me and you have something that I want.”
“You cannot become saKhan by defeating me in a Circle” he warned
“Neg, but I can make your position vacant by killing you in a Circle of Equals” he said stepping towards the saKhan intimidating the younger man. “This is the Clan way, Quiaff?”
“Aff it is” Amina Kerensky agreed showing she would not stop the Circle.
“Then we will fight tomorrow outside the Capital with our OmniMechs. You against me Evan Kell and if I should be victorious you will die.”
“Until tomorrow” he said turning towards Amina Kerensky “Khan” he said finally bowing his head for a moment before walking out of the hall.
“I will kill him and then take care of pulling apart the two Galaxies that followed him. We do not need them my Khan.” Ward said finally before walking out of the Hall leaving Amina Kerensky to ponder the future she had welcomed with the arrival of the Mountain Wolves.
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The next day Evan Kell’s Lycurgus OmniMech stepped onto the grass covered plain south of the Wolve’s capital the OmniMech was common in Clan Wolf and he was not surprised to see Fredrick Ward step onto the field in another Lycurgus. He knew that Fredrick Ward normally piloted a Timber Wolf OmniMech but that the warrior would not have wanted to give the ten ton advantage to his rival.
With the traditional pleasantries over with Evan cut to the right twisting his Lycurgus torso to track Fredrick Ward’s OmniMech he triggered all three torso mounted Extended-Range Large Lasers there was an instant burst of heat into the OmniMech’s cockpit. The red beams burned over Fredrick Ward’s OmniMech as Evan pushed through the heat and continued to move turning towards the Wolf saKhan. A gauss rifle slug, large laser and group of tightly packed advanced tactical missiles flew towards Evan’s Mech the gauss rifle tore over his OmniMech’s left shoulder missing by metres while the ATMs slammed into the upper left arm while the laser burned over the torso. Evan ignored the damage cutting to the left as he zig-zagged closer to the enemy Mech cutting in the Myomer Acceleration Signal Circuitry (MASC) as he closed rapidly reducing the closing speed as the range ticked down he opened fire with his long range missile launcher and one of the large lasers causing more damage to Ward’s Mech. More laser and missile fire tracked from the enemy Lycurgus along with another gauss slug which this time connected with Evan’s OmniMech opening a hole in the right leg armour.
Changing direction again Evan ducked his massive eighty-five ton OmniMech out of the way of another flight of advanced tactical missiles firing another volley of laser fire into Ward’s Lycurgus. He glanced at the sensors and saw the range between the OmniMechs tick down with every step until he was in range lining the left arm with the other Lycurgus he triggered the massive assault autocannon there sending a high explosive slug into the enemy Mech along with another volley of missiles and laser fire. The autocannon ripped into the torso of the enemy Mech and were followed by the long range missiles causing massive holes in Fredrick Ward’s OmniMech exposing the insides of the OmniMech. A small explosion erupted inside the Lycurgus as one of the lasers shorted out from the damage. Another gauss rifle shot and missiles slammed into Kell’s OmniMech but he ignored the damage instead he listened to the autocannon and missile launcher reload and triggered both again along with one of the lasers this time he saw the assault-class LB-type autocannon tear through the torso of Ward’s Lycurgus and penetrate the engine shielding. There was a massive bloom of heat as the damage turned Ward’s cockpit into a furnace the missiles following the autocannon slug slammed into the torso causing yet more damage.
Despite what was often said about BattleMechs by civilians they could take a lot of punishment despite the damage taken by Fredrick Ward’s OmniMech and the heat conditions inside the cockpit of the Lycurgus the pilot continued to engage with the low heat producing gauss rifle and ATM launcher causing yet more damage to Evan Kell’s machine. Evan saw two of his large lasers were gone as was the fire control system on his long range missile launcher. At this range it didn’t matter Evan waited a moment for the cannon and launcher to reload keeping Fredrick Ward’s OmniMech in his sights as he played with the MASC system keeping the enemy warrior guessing where he would be before unleashing a final volley of autocannon, missile and laser fire into the Lycurgus finally finishing Fredrick Ward’s battle with further impacts on the torso and an explosion from the damaged gauss rifle causing the assault Mech to fall to the right slamming into the ground in an uncontrolled fall shattering what was left of the gauss rifle arm under the OmniMech’s weight. While not a blood thirsty man Evan Kell knew what he needed to do next aiming at the downed Lycurgus he triggered the OmniMech’s autocannon one final time smashing the cockpit and killing Fredrick Ward.
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Over the next six days Evan Kell defeated a further three opponents to claim the position of saKhan of Clan Wolf. After his final battle he sat in the ready room wrapped in a towel thinking about what had brought him here. He had brought his Wolves into Clan Wolf and while he had not expected a warm welcome he had not expected to kill to have to kill four Wolves so soon. He had ensured that each of those he had fought had died in their battles securing his position. The door to the changing room opened and in entered Amina Kerensky wearing a fetching grey jumpsuit with red highlights on the sides, wrists and ankles. Her outfit set off her recently dyed red hair. “Congratulations saKhan” she said confirming she would not oppose his appointment. “Not quite the entry I was expecting from you.”
“Not what I planned” he admitted they had spoken for weeks before the merger of Wolf and Mountain Wolf. During those discussions he had agreed to become a Galaxy Commander in Clan Wolf and sacrifice his Clan’s independence for their survival. “If your saKhan had been more amenable to the arrival of my people then I would have worked with him but he did not.”
“And your ruthless dispatching of your opponents over the last days?”
“Ensuring there are not more opponents in the coming days” he said with a forced smile he had not enjoyed the kills but they had been necessary.
“I understand” she admitted “you do know you cannot fight every war for your people quiaff?”
“Affirmative” he said glancing down “but my victories have showed that my people can fight their way into the Clan become part of it instead of a part on the outside.” He said seeing her sceptical look “I know that some bloodlines will always be considered outsiders.” He said not needing to name his own Bloodhouse in that knowing that the Kell name would always be seen as outsiders. “But I wanted to show them all there was a way and if you try to turn on my people en masse we will resist and cause more damage to the Wolves than the damage that was done in the Refusal War.” He warned her.
“You are a bastard Evan Kell” she snapped knowing that she had welcomed them back to Clan Wolf thinking that she would be remembered as the one who unified Clan Wolf and then the one that made the Wolf the ilClan. She had prepared her Wolves for a betrayal from Kell’s people for them to arrive firing their weapons and causing havoc but had not prepared for them to arrive peacefully and then turn her Clan upside down from within. Now she had to live with that choice and live with Evan Kell as her second in command. “I have a mission for you” she said seeing his curiosity peaked “I want you to inform Star Colonel Duncan Vickers to take his First Wolf Guards Cluster to Ford to join the Wolf Hussars there in defence.”
“Aff, question why me?” He asked looking at her curious it was a simple order that she could have passed in a moment.
“They are experience men and women I know you would like to keep them close I need you to understand that they are now my forces to command and while you want to stand up for them, saKhan, I command the Wolves.”
“I understand Khan Amina Kerensky, but also understand that all of the Wolves are now my Wolves as well and if I see you as unfit” he said rising from the bench “I will challenge, I will defeat you and kill you as I have my previous opponents.” He warned her Amina Kerensky looked him up and down for a moment before turning and leaving the ready room he was sure he heard her laugh but he also knew that now she knew exactly what he was capable of.
Launch Day, MS Grand Marik (Imperial-class Battleship)
Ionus, District of Marik
Free Worlds League
25th July 3108
Slowly the one point seven million ton Imperial-class Battleship moved clear of the Ionus shipyards into open space. The vessel was the Free Worlds League’s newest and biggest WarShip capable of putting up a fight against the other massive WarShips fielded by the Clans and Inner Sphere. The MS Grand Mark had enough speed to match a Lyran Mjolnir and carried enough capital particle cannons, lasers, missiles and autocannons to threaten any other WarShip in the black.
Captain-General Joseph Marik stood on the main gravity deck of the shipyard facility as he watched the Battleship. He was proud of what he saw while a man of peace he knew that the best way to defend his people, and his family, was with weapons that could match those against his nation. The Battleship continued to move away from the floating framework and was joined in space by several assault DropShips and squadrons of aerospace fighters which moved into escort positions around the large ship. The Captain-General remained watching the MS Grand Marik turn in space towards the shipyards and in perfect formation with the DropShips and aerospace fighters as they moved over the facility right in front of the holo-vid cameras which would broadcast this image of naval might and of the Captain-General watching them proudly across the Free Worlds League.
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Ok, which of my ships did you ripoff this time?
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I think the Wolves are about to have that Chinese curse laid upon them. The curse of living in interesting times...
And the Imperial class sounds like quite the vessel whilst the Davions and Combine continue to rough each other up in tit for tat raids which does more to undermine the efforts of the Protectorate's diplomats by their inability to do anything.
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Interesting entry, Dragon Cat!
Hope it's not the end of the Kell bloodline, but sounds like it will just be part of the Ward bloodhouse like it was before.
So the Free World League's Battleship is FWLS MS Grand Marik?. I don't get what the "MS" is for.
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Marik Ship I would guess :)
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Great updates DC, I look forward to seeing the changes in the Clan Wolf, and see what they end up doing with their (roughly) 2 new galaxies.
The FWL finally get their battleship, nice! By itself it could probably put a severe damper on the Capellan offensive against Oriente, if it is assigned to the area, even if it's a "light" battleship (though iirc, its been hinted at being either a medium sized, ~1.5mt, or large, ~2mt, battleship).
Hope it's not the end of the Kell bloodline, but sounds like it will just be part of the Ward bloodhouse like it was before.
As it is has become an individual bloodname on its own, I doubt it will be going away any time soon. Reaving the name from the Wolves would set such a precedence that could severely damage the clan, I don't think Amina would be all that enthused with such an occurrence, better to just leave sleeping dogs lie.
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Vition2, it is noted as 1.7 million tons.
So a large medium by your standards. O0
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JA Baker ripoff is such a terrible term repurposed I'd use I'll be honest I'm not 100% where I got the original design I've ended up changing it a lot still mostly a canon tech unit though makes a change from recent times
marauder the Wolves will do what Wolves do adapt
Wrangler the two that answered after you hit it on the head
MS is Marik Ship technically speaking there is no FWLS marker at the moment since the districts are keeping their own ships. Some adopt the FWLS mark out of respect and outsiders mostly use it but inside its their state designations
And Kell is a Wolf Bloodname agreed as part of the merger there will be more on that as time goes by
snakespinner I thought the same not too small not too big not a bad first battleship
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i'm looking forward to seeing what the left behind cives and troopers do. also what happened to the ship yard they had access to?
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It was part of the Ruins of Gabriel in the Odessa system so when the Mountain Wolves pulled back to Gallery they effectively cut themselves off from it. It was really only a repair facility either way they had no construction
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It was part of the Ruins of Gabriel in the Odessa system so when the Mountain Wolves pulled back to Gallery they effectively cut themselves off from it. It was really only a repair facility either way they had no construction
sounds like a good place to base your operations out of.
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I forgot to put the link in Earlier the Imperial-class Battleship
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=56741.0 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=56741.0)
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I find it funny how they thought they would control the mountain wolves and kell just turns shit on there head and practically takes over XD O0 ;D
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I find it funny how they thought they would control the mountain wolves and kell just turns shit on there head and practically takes over XD O0 ;D
He's only saKhan there's still room for the Wolves to stamp their authority. It's a story that will go on a bit.
and here's another new design the Tetrarch
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=56758.new#new (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=56758.new#new)
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Just caught up. Awesome updates Dragon Cat! O0
Wonder how the other powers, both Inner Sphere and Clans, are going to react with the Wolves reunited.
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Not a new update but another ship to the collection
Cassandra-class Support Cruiser of Clan Fire Mandrill
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=56884.new#new (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=56884.new#new)
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FINALLY time for an update
Naval Tech Conference, Elysium Technologies
Geneva, Europe
Terra, Star League Protectorate
2nd August 3108
The slightly overweight middle-aged engineer stepped up to the podium pushing his glasses up his nose and brushing back his dark greying shoulder-length hair he looked around the room full of the smartest doctors, scientists and engineers in the Inner Sphere and periphery. “Ladies and gentlemen the WarShip Anti-Missile System has failed to live up to the expectations set by the Star League Defence Force and the member states.” He said there were some shocked glances, others were annoyed but a fair few looked like they agreed with him. “The WAMS is too complicated, expensive and you cannot fit it onto the current generation of WarShips only on future vessels and it adds millions to the cost of each and every ship.” He said manipulating the holoimager displaying an image of an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser. “This is the LCS Sweet River of the Lyran Commonwealth Navy, formerly the Blue Talon of the Jade Falcon Navy and before that a vessel of the Star League Defence Force. Ladies and gentlemen this vessel is over seven hundred years old and despite its age and its extended service to date it is still considered to be one of the most deadly WarShip designs ever created.” He said pausing allowing the Sweet River to rotate slowly “when the Lyran Commonwealth salvaged this Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser they decided that the ship would not remain in its original Clan configuration. Instead to great cost they chose to upgrade its armour to Lamellor Ferro Carbide, add a Second Generation Lithium Fusion Battery, they have installed an extensive laser anti-missile and screen launcher system in every weapons arc improving this vessel’s capabilities immeasurably. This ship is even more likely to survive a space battles now than it ever has it and it continues to be as deadly as it has ever been.” He said allowing it to sink in to a trained eye they could see where new anti-missile systems and screen launchers had been added to every arc creating a protective net around the ship. “Our intelligence sources suggest that the Clans are extensively upgrading their classic Star League and early Clan designs in a similar fashion making each of them far more capable.” He said “our WAMS system does not give us a significant enough advantage over these vessels in defence and provides nothing for offence. We cannot rely on this system to provide us with the advantage we require in the future.” He said pausing allowing his words to sink in “under development we currently have a Laser base version of the WAMS which at present promises to provide an offensive option as well as a defensive one giving the potential for a superior defence system. But this system is still restricted to the defence of that vessel and attacks against weapons passing that vessel.” He said activating the holotank again showing the Aegis-class LCS Sweet River once more now showing two DropShips either side of the ship.
“In this scenario the two flanking ships are providing additional Anti-Missile Cover for the Sweet River intent on allowing the Heavy Cruiser to get to its target regardless of what weapons are used against it” he said as multiple simulated missiles were fired on the Heavy Cruiser and shot down by the anti-missile systems on the DropShips. “In this scenario the attacker will direct weapons fire on the DropShips to eliminate them or excessive amounts of missiles will overwhelm the defences of the DropShips and allow for strikes against the Heavy Cruiser. The Sweet River will get to its target but the DropShips will not likely survive the encounter and there is nothing that the WarShip or her crew can do.” He said pausing changing the holoimage to show a capital missile.
“At Elysium Technologies we have been working on a different type of defence. The Rayfin Missile” he said naming the missile shown above “based on a modified Barracuda Capital Missile the Rayfin is designed to augment and support a space vessel’s defences and when combined with a Naval Command and Control Net the Rayfin has the ability to target missiles not targeted on the host vessel. It can be fired from standard Barracuda Launchers or from AR-10 Multi-purpose Capital Missile Launchers.” Moments later the image changed the Sweet River once more with two DropShips flanking it. As the capital missiles came in the two DropShips shot down several of the incoming missiles but over and above the anti-missile systems the Rayfin fired from the Sweet River helped defend the DropShips allowing them to last longer. “This missile will allow naval vessels to support each other improving their combat capabilities and improving the chances of more crews making it home. Thank you for your time” he said stepping down from the podium as the holoimage changed back to show the Rayfin Missile hovering in front of the crowd who were applauding loudly.
Border Conflict
Coyote Occupation Zone
5th August 3108
As the fighting continues against the Society Clan Hell’s Horses continues to assault Coyote systems intending on making the Coyotes pay for their dealings with the Society and bringing them to the Inner Sphere. On the world of Dell the Hell’s Horses find a Society stronghold which puts up a fight Khan Teresia Cooper leads her Clansmen personally against the Society. During the fighting a particle cannon blast rips through her Gnome Battle Armour suit killing the Khan inside. The Horses are driven to destroy the remaining Society forces and take control over the planet. New Khan Gottgreid Amirault orders his Clansmen to continue their assaults on Svaarstad and Ridderkerk bringing both into the Hell’s Horses Occupation Zone and putting yet more pressure on the surviving elements of the Society.
Clarkston (Bug Eye Surveillance Craft)
Terada WarShip Yards, Dieron
Dieron Military District, Draconis Combine
12th August 3108
The diminutive Bug Eye-class Surveillance Craft Clarkston moved slowly towards the Terada Shipyards of the Dieron System under the cover of a military transport DropShip but in reality its powerful sensors were hard at work collecting everything it could from the system. In the centre of the bridge Captain Olivier Martinez read reports on the two Tatsumaki-class Destroyers and two Inazuma-class Corvettes under construction at the yards both were noted as being as part of the Phase II development of the design and had no marked improvements over the design. There were also nearly two dozen DropShips under construction at the orbital yards and hundreds of supply ships. His vessel just disappeared into the bustling traffic of the system Olivier was not concerned with the other traffic or even the WarShip construction here he only had eyes for the DCS Akagi which was undergoing repairs and clean-up following the nuclear strike in the Helen system.
“This has got to be the worse situation we’ve ever flown into.” Ben Sawyer his executive and helm officer said glancing over at the Captain.
“What about the run over Alpheratz?” Olivier mentioned the Raven coverage of Oriente had been far denser but he silently agreed Dieron was a different animal.
“Sure the Ravens played hard to get but at least you get some warning from them unlike this lot.”
“Oh wow would you look at that” Emily Neilson exclaimed from the sensor station Olivier glanced over startled for a moment but realized she had barely moved.
“What is it Em?” He asked they’d been on the same crew for years now ranks below Captain mattered little. Emily didn’t need further encouragement and instead of describing what she saw she sent the image onto one of the main screens so all five bridge crew could see what she had been surprised at.
The image showed the recently arrived DCS Lyon’s Thumb, a Kyushu-class Frigate, the ship had been at the jump point for several days before making a surprise inter-system jump near the yards. Now the reason for the arrival was made clear as an entire Regiment of Land Air Mechs headed towards the ship. As they made their first fly past over Frigate an entire company of LAMs converted into their BattleMech configuration and walked the length of the hull before turning back into aerospace fighters and rejoining the regiment. “Impressive” Neil Tyson said watching the screen as a second company did exactly the same “practice makes perfect.”
“It’s an introduction” Amelie Durand said looking at the information on her screen cross checking it with the Clarkston’s records “that’s the Ninth Yokosuka Regiment of the Special Naval Landing Forces. The Dracs newest toy LAM unit and the Lyon’s Thumb has only recently left the Omi Kurita Flotilla this is regiment meeting base ship.”
“Some meeting” Neilson said changing the image to show one of the Stinger LAMs from the third company shattered against the hull of the Lyon’s Thumb. A technical malfunction or pilot error had caused the destruction of one of the LAMs and the death of its pilot. “A waste of a LAM and pilot” she said disgusted by the wasted vehicle and pilot it might have been a Combine warrior but no-one deserved to die so cheaply. The other companies seemed to ignore their fallen compatriot as they continued cycling through the meeting ritual and then moved around and rose into their individual bays a small craft launched and began to collect the remains of the destroyed Stinger.
Olivier Martinez watched the display with the others but his focus was on one of the other screens the dockyard that held the DCS Akagi as the Clarkston continued to close on the massive WarShip silent surrounded by a lattice of repair bays and workers who were like ants against its massive hull as they prepared the ship for its next mission. “A couple of nukes in the right spot would make all the difference.” He said as the Clarkston continued forward he had suggested to command to load the Bug Eye’s two escape pods with nuclear weapons and to ram them down the Akagi’s throat but he had been overruled as command believed that using nuclear weapons over an important world like Dieron would be an escalation too far for the Draconis Combine.
“…Captain… Captain” Sawyer repeated turning in his chair to face Martinez “Ollie we need to get onto the escape trajectory before anyone rumbles us.” He said attempting to get the Captain out of his trance.
“Right” Martinez said regaining his composure “get your last scans of that ship and set a course for Bemer we’ll slingshot around it and get into open space.” He said the Clarkston didn’t carry cargo and couldn’t land on Dieron so there was only one option remaining. “All hands brace for increased acceleration” he said keying in the ship-wide communication system.” As the sensors continued to scan their target Sawyer slightly altered the course of the ship while pouring on the speed increasing the thrust placed on the crews.
Both acts would arouse suspicion but there wasn’t another option. As the Bug Eye turned patrolling aerospace fighters noted the Clarkston out of position and moved to intercept and turn the ship back onto a correct course unfortunately for them the Clarkston had a WarShip sized engine and suddenly three gravities of acceleration and then four filled the hull of the Clarkston as the small ship rapidly accelerated.
“Let’s just hope there isn’t anyone on Bemer today” Emily Neilson nodded as the small craft rapidly gained speed.
“Ben, make sure we stay out of range of any ground fire just in case” Martinez commanded as the ship hurtled towards the airless moon. If anyone was on the surface and decided to take pot shots at them the shots could still hit them because there was nothing to stop weapons fire in space but their fire would be highly inaccurate.
“We’ll be going too fast for it even to matter” Sawyer stated as the ship continued acceleration now caught in Bemer’s light gravitational field. “Cutting thrust I’ll use the rest to break us free from the moon.” He said the crew felt lighter for a moment as inertia carried the small Bug Eye on its course around the moon away from Dieron and the aerospace fighters. As they moved around the moon of Bemer the small vessel’s powerful engines suddenly were lit once again and the ship was accelerating once more breaking away from the moon and heading into space, there was chance of any of the defending ships catching the retreating Clarkston. Hours later the Clarkston was clear of the gravity wells of the Dieron system and it was able to jump clear of the system leaving the Draconis Combine and passing into the Star League Protectorate system of Caph. Arriving on the outer edge of the Caph system the Clarkston would spend the next three weeks acting like another DropShip travelling through the system before finally returning to the Federated Suns in late September.
Thirty-fifth Star League Games
Star League Stadium, Solaris VII
Independent World
20th August 3108
Following the recent troubles in the Isle of Skye and the amalgamating of Clans Wolf and Mountain Wolf Thirty-fifth Star League Games begins on Solaris VII under a heavy cloud of security as the entire Solaris Defence Brigade and the Second Ebon Guard Cluster deploy across Solaris. While the public of Solaris are generally against such heavy security businesses across the planet benefit as the troops need to eat and need to let off steam when not on duty bringing a massive boost to the planetary economy.
In the Star League Stadium pilot Lea Cruickshank, of the Lyran Commonwealth, stuns the other competitors piloting her near factory-new Knight 3X which has been equipped with a Void Signature System, triple strength myomer strength system, a headhunter missile system, a particle cannon and a lance. The fifty-five ton BattleMech which was designed and built on Coventry is too much for the other pilots who are unprepared for a BattleMech with the speed and firepower combination of the new Knight 3X and the Thirty-fifth Champion of the Star League Games is crowned.
Despite the successes of Lea Cruickshank most people wonder about the young pilot’s BattleMech which is clearly a prototype machine using technology not commonly seen on Lyran Commonwealth BattleMechs. Few expect the BattleMech to reach full production due to the massive cost required to build the experimental design but some wonder if it is an indication of a new design in the works by Coventry Metal Works.
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The Knight 3X from the Star League Games segment
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=56909.msg1308188#msg1308188 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=56909.msg1308188#msg1308188)
The Rayfin Capital Missile has also been added to the Tech thread - the link is in my signature.
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Nice and very interesting update, Dragon Cat! I love these things especially this canon-dry period we continue to be in. Heck it's more exciting updates as well!
Question: Do you think smaller version of the Rayfin missile will be developed with Sub-Cap Missile family? More DropShips can fire those off than Cap Missile carriers, especially if your employed in the anti-aerospace fighter/missile roles.
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Wrangler - glad you enjoyed the update. As per a sub-cap Rayfin not anytime soon. The Rayfin is one step, I've got another idea for a second Capital Missile which I'll probably introduce in the next few months (real time not timeline) after I refine it a bit.
Before that here's another update
Launching Ceremony, Storm Shadow
Illium Shipyards, Ionus
District of Marik, Free Worlds League
3rd September 3108
Standing in the Command Centre of the Storm Shadow Colonel, his unit’s recently completed League III-class Destroyer, Tim Storm was out of place. He was a MechWarrior he had no place on the deck of a WarShip but he would never miss this day beside him Captain Phillipe Van Dyke, who had seen the ship rebuilt and re-launched here at Ionus. “Nervous?” He asked Phillipe glancing over at the older man.
“A little”
“Wishing you were the one commanding her?”
“A little” he admitted glancing over at the Colonel “shut-up Stormy” he whispered as Captain David Prentiss, the ships commander, entered the bridge. He was a young man but he was also the husband of Tim Storm’s eldest daughter. He had previously been an aerospace fighter pilot and the commander of the regiment’s Hive-class DropShip. Standing inside the bridge door he came to attention and saluted the two older men before moving into the middle of the room.
“Contact the operations centre.” He commanded immediately “helm, prime engines for one half gravity acceleration. Damage Control I want to ensure all external locks are secure no accidents.” He said moving around the room rapidly giving his orders before looking up into the holotank in the middle of the room seeing the Ionus system beyond them. Near the shipyards was the MS Grand Marik, the Free Worlds League’s newest Battleship, the ship was technically still undergoing trials but its presence was a clear message if the mercenary WarShip stepped out of line it would immediately face a far superior WarShip in combat. “We are a new ship and a new crew” he said quietly to start with but his voice gaining strength “but every member of the Shadow Guard are behind us and our commander is here today to support us.” He said looking over at Colonel Tim Storm “Colonel, you led us to Spirit and found this ship. We have fought to see her restored and the crews under Captain Van Dyke have done a fantastic job with her. You have honoured me with command of this vessel I will not let you down nor will this crew.” He said Tim Storm remained standing where he was silent as a statue his mouth too dry with pride to speak.
“Captain Prentiss, sir, we have been cleared to leave spacedock” the communications officer said standing at her position to deliver the order. Despite the ship not being under thrust each crewmen able to stand due to their magnetic boots which slowed movement around the deck but at least kept everyone the same way up.
“Thank you, Lieutenant” Prentiss replied glancing over at Tim Storm for a moment but then turning to Captain Van Dyke “sir, if you would indulge me you rebuilt this ship for my crew please order us into the black.” He said addressing the older Captain. Tim Storm glanced at him proudly as Captain Phillipe Van Dyke brought him to attention glancing all around the room.
“Well I don’t know what you are all gawking at this is a WarShip she doesn’t belong inside a shipyard. Get her into space ladies and gentlemen and for heaven sake don’t scratch the pain on your first day.” He said adding a little levity to the proceedings the helm officers didn’t need a second command and with the engines already primed there was a rush of energy as the five hundred-and-fifty thousand ton Stormchaser slowly slipped clear of the shipyard into open space. As it cleared the docks multiple aerospace fighters from the MS Grand Marik passed over and under the Stormchaser tipping their wings in salute to the new ships launch. The Stormchaser would now face weeks of trials before finally it would return to Spirit and rejoin the rest of the Shadow Guard Command.
HPG Transmission, Marik Royal Palace
Dormuth, Marik
District of Marik, Free Worlds League
18th September 3108
Joseph Marik had not slept for the last thirty-six hours ever since the difficult birth of his fifth child Zachariah Marik. Since the child’s birth he had fought and struggled more than most grown men would in their whole lives as each breath was a laboured one. The doctors had discovered he had a defect in his heart one that would prove fatal if not treated unfortunately there was only one option, an artificial heart, which would see Zachariah as an outcast within the Free Worlds League for life. What was worse Joseph’s wife Lucy was against the use of an artificial heart stating that her children would live with real organs or they would not stand which had led to this sleepless night as his wife remained at the child’s side. Intelligence Secretary Charlene Sheppard stepped into the room “Captain-General, the doctors say that you cannot wait any longer is Duchess Marik still against the operation?”
“Yes, she won’t leave his side” Joseph said turning back towards Sheppard “which is why you must do what has to be done.” He said looking at her his mind made “the Duchess cannot be harmed under any circumstances.”
“Of course” Sheppard said “she will forgive you Captain-General.”
“I hope so” he said turning away Sheppard waited a moment and then left. Within the hour SAFE Agents disguised as nurses moved in on Duchess Lucy Marik and knocked out the Captain-General’s wife with a sedative allowing the doctors to begin the operation to fit Zachariah Marik with an artificial heart which would allow him to live despite Lucy Marik’s desires.
The next morning Lucy Marik burst into Joseph’s office and marched up to his desk seeing that her husband had still not slept. “How could you?” She demanded looking at him her face a scene of betrayal caused by the man she loved.
“I could not allow my son to die when I knew something could be done.” He stated cleanly “if any of our children die through an accident, from illness or battle that is out with my command I will mourn them and learn to live with the loss. I could not and would not allow our son to die when I knew I could fix it.”
“Despite my wishes”
“We were both emotional” he said rising from his chair “Zachariah will recover. We will be ok.” He said reaching out for her but his wife did not move.
“You are correct we will be ok” she said turning away from her husband “to help Zachariah recover I will take Anson, Ruth, Malachi and Aaron to Washburn to see my family to give him the peace he needs.”
“We could all go a change of scenery could do us all good.” He said looking at her back not liking what he was hearing.
“You are needed here and with the other children away little Zach will be able to recover from his operation in peace.” She said turning back toward him “we will come back, it will be for a short time.” She promised with a small apologising smile Joseph eventually nodded his agreement turning to look out over the plains of Marik.
“I will arrange an escort.”
“My family’s guards will be sufficient.”
“No.” Joseph making the decision for her “they are my children” he said “they will be fully protected and escorted at all times.” He said he would make sure she couldn’t go further without his knowledge and only those he wanted access would gain access to his family regardless of the Buckwell Family’s desires.
Command Meeting, Tetrarch
Tamar, Nova Cat Territory
Clan Occupation Zones
23rd September 3108
A battered and bloodied Khan Canin Rosse entered the briefing room on board the WarShip Tetrarch followed by saKhan Sepp Heller of Clan Coyote. “Khan Heller will not be joining us… for the rest of his life having paid for Clan Coyote’s complete ineptness in handling this situation.” He said angrily stepping up towards the table in the centre of the room seeing the stunned faces around him. “I have also decided that Tamar will be a permanent holding of Clan Nova Cat the Fourth Nova Cat Guards Cluster will arrive in two weeks to take stewardship over the world. Khan Sepp Heller has agreed there will be no further combat for the holdings here.” He said glancing over his shoulder at the young man.
“Aff… Aff that is correct” he said less than thirty minutes before Sepp Heller and many other senior Coyotes had witnessed Khan Rosse kill Carl Heller in a Circle of Equals.
“I thought that you were the one who wished to see Clan Coyote survive? And the one who disparaged other Clans who have seized territory they have fought the Society for Quiaff?” Ragnar Magnesson the Khan of the Rasalhague Dominion questioned of the Clans only Rosse, Heller, Magnesson and new Horse Khan Gottgreid Amirault were present the others represented by at most a Star Colonel.
“Aff, I was but the Coyote’s mishandling of this situation deserved a response. Allowing these renegades access to nuclear weapons, which were almost used against this very ship, required punishment.” He said angrily
“I agree” Star Colonel Snow Mattlov the head of the Jade Falcon Watch said “which is why I believe that “which is why I believe that Khan Jana Pryde will support me when I declare this Trial of Absorption of Clan Coyote.”
“Star Colonel Mattlov” Canin Rosse said moving around the table to stand in front of the larger Elemental glancing up at him “I have killed a Khan today it was not something I wanted to do it was something that needed to be done.” He said looking at the man “now do you think that killing a Star Colonel will phase me at the slightest bit?” He asked he knew Mattlov was not the angry, unpredictable Jade Falcon warrior that was common place in the Jade Falcon Clan he was more opportunistic which was exactly what he was trying today.
“Neg”
“So would you like to retract that claim of Absorption?”
“Aff I would” he said glancing down “I overstepped my bounds Khan Rosse this is your mission to command.” He said stepping back each of them had agreed that Rosse’s command was absolute until operations against the Society were complete. After all it was Rosse who had agreed to complete the operation per the instructions of the Clan Council while most of the Clans had taken things from the Coyotes from designs to factories to entire star systems none of the Clans had outright disobeyed Canin Rosse’s commands.
“Good” he said stepping back to the table. “We still have operations on six Coyote worlds and it appears there is a conflict on several Horse worlds?”
“It is unrelated” Gottgreid Amirault answered news that Clan Jade Falcon had landed forces on Hamilton, Dukambie and Cumbres had passed far quicker than he had anticipated. Early reports suggested the Trials for the planets were being fought with Zellbrigen and unfortunately it appeared the Jade Falcons had the upper hand on each world.
“Fine” Rosse said turning back to the others “we have identified what we believe is the final Society stronghold on the world of Blackstone in the periphery.” He said naming the world beyond the Hell’s Horses OZ. “We will defeat these rebels once and for all.”
“Rasalhague could bombard the surface to ash” Magnesson suggested the Society were without honour it was a valid tactic.
“Orbital fire support may be required” Rosse conceded “however several of their facilities are built below ground. I do not wish them to survive bombardment underground for years and to remerge to cause trouble in the future.” He stated “I plan on leading the ground battle myself. I began this campaign and I plan to finish it. I invite you all to join me.” He said with the Fourth Nova Cat Guards Cluster on its way to secure Tamar the Nova Cats were almost ready to leave while the other Clans would be given time to prepare their forces before their final battle.
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nice update! Hmm... looks like Clan Coyote has a long road to recovery!!
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I don't know if Clan Coyote can recover from this.
A fifth child for the Captain-General. Why do I get the feeling another civil war has just been born. :D ;D O0
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A fifth child for the Captain-General. Why do I get the feeling another civil war has just been born. :D ;D O0
Thus it always was for the Free Worlds.
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great update... I wonder what Clan C will do. they know that they are weak, and a weak clan is food for another clan.
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I'm also wondering how the Coyotes are going to get out of this mess, they appear to be getting closer and closer to absorption and the number of aggressive neighbors doesn't help matters any. I will note that their overall strength is actually fairly significant (and ground forces are actually greater than the Ravens, though the Ravens probably have access to a much larger industrial base).
I see quite a few options for absorption (oddly enough including with the Ebon Guard), as well as some ways to actually survive. But which direction they'll end up going I've no idea, too much is up in the air right now.
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Indeed the 'yotes are in a serious bind and because of them being viewed, potentially, as a nest for the Society then I doubt other Clans are going to trust them. The Ebon Guard might be a good option as a seemingly neutral arbiter in the Clans having them absorb the 'yotes if only basically to save them as well as keep the balance of power with the Clans.
I still think we're gonna see the Nova Cats split though.
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Must be special technology keeping the child alive. The artificial heart would have to be changed all the time to keep up with the child's growth unless a donor can be found with real one.
The mother seems to be not really "with it". She seems to be a Luddite about having technology sustain her young baby, she seems to be the type she'd rather hope her faith will save the child. I think there definetly going be break with Marik and his wife if that business keeps going.
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Must be special technology keeping the child alive. The artificial heart would have to be changed all the time to keep up with the child's growth unless a donor can be found with real one.
The mother seems to be not really "with it". She seems to be a Luddite about having technology sustain her young baby, she seems to be the type she'd rather hope her faith will save the child. I think there definetly going be break with Marik and his wife if that business keeps going.
Standard Free Worlds prejudice against cybernetic implants.
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Standard Free Worlds prejudice against cybernetic implants.
That doesn't strike me as a cybernetic implant thou. I guess FWL has high mortality rate if that's really the case.
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As for the Coyotes everything that's happening to them is intentional - there always needs to be an underdog. They have a story to be told we'll see it.
As will the Free Worlds League...
As for the artificial heart I'm going with its cybernetic hence the FWL prejudice. I actually had a secondary story that was going to kick in alongside it but for now that's on hold but will likely happen in the future and spark something else in the FWL.
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See what happens when I get some holidays here's another update
I'd like to thank JA Baker for letting me play with Fenwick - it's been a while but I've gotten around to it finally
And Sharpnel for posting http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=55511.0 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=55511.0) which has become the Nemean with one configuration added to give it an BA LBX Firedrake option.
Border Skirmish
Federated Suns/Draconis Combine border
3rd October 3108
The Draconis Combine and Federated Suns low intensity border skirmish continues as the two nations continue fighting over a few worlds. With Mordecia Sandoval known to be on Small World commanding a detachment of the AFFS the DCS Draconis Rift and the First Yokosuka Special Landing Force Regiment carried inside it launch an assault. With LAMs filling the air and assaulting the ground forces pinning Mordecia Sandoval in position the DCS Draconis Rift opens fire directly on Sandoval’s position effectively wiping out Sandoval, the First Robinson Strikers LCT and the First Robinson Defenders units. Further along the border heavy fighting is recorded on Ozawa and Mallory’s World as the DCMS seize Ozawa but are forced to retreat from Mallory’s World. On Ozawa McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry are forced to retreat off world with seventeen year old Grant McCarron becomes a MechWarrior as he commandeers a Bandersnatch BattleMech to engage the Combine forces. Although he is unable to destroy any of the BattleMechs he is fighting during the retreat it is the first real battle for the young heir of the mercenary command. With no WarShips to support the DCMS are unable to stop the mercenary command withdrawing from battle.
As word passes of Modecia Sandoval’s passing Field Marshal of the Draconis March Jerome Sandoval, his cousin, orders the MIIO investigation into Mordecia’s involvement in Duke Tancred Sandoval’s death and his questionable financial actions squashed. Instead Jerome turns to the Federated Suns media agencies ordering them to spin the story setting Mordecia Sandoval up as a hero of the Draconis March and the Federated Suns.
Snow Raven Proving Grounds
Quatre Belle, Raven Alliance
Periphery
11th October 3108
“Treachery to Sceptre and Spartan complete a full roll on our mark” the communications officer on the bridge of the Snow Raven Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser. “And mark” she commanded beyond the Troop Cruiser the seven hundred and ten thousand ton Sceptre and Spartan completed full rolls of their hull before righting themselves alongside the Treachery. The communication’s officer looked at Treachery’s commander who nodded. “Superb and Sovereign complete directional change one hundred and eighty degrees on our mark… and mark.” She said this time the Superb lowered its nose turning end over end as its nose while the Sovereign did the same but instead of lowering its nose it raised end over end. It as the intricate dance continued through space the four seven hundred and ten thousand ships continued to manoeuvre. Each of the ships was based on the Splendid-class Cruiser Hull but each of the ships was configured different as the Snow Ravens tried various different weapons and carried craft on the ships.
Graduation Ceremony
Sandhurst, England
Terra, Star League Protectorate
19th October 3108
Although Star League Defence Force cadets trained all over Terra it was tradition for each class to pass by the commandant’s tower at the end of the parade ground at Sandhurst in Southern England. In the grandstand behind the tower Duke Bannister Cameron stood beside his wife Andrea Kincaid-Cameron and watched proudly as the cadets passed the tower looking immaculate in their uniforms and in their ranks. Although he could not see from where he was within the ranks were his son Jeremy and his daughter Nicola as they completed their training and joined the Star League Defence Force following in the footsteps of their parents.
Off to Bannister’s side he was aware of someone else standing just off at the side glancing over he saw a young Star League Defence Force Major who immediately saluted after gaining Bannister’s attention. Initially the Duke ignored the man he had retired from the military life and had no reason to interfere but the Captain remained standing where he was slowly lowering the salute. “Speak son” Bannister said finally giving up on ignoring the man.
“Sir, I’m Major Simon Rosberg of Star League Intelligence” he said introducing himself.
“I’m retired Major...” he began “Rosberg as in Adrian Rosberg?”
“My father, sir”
“A good soldier I was sorry to hear of his passing Major” he said Adrian Rosberg had been a Colonel in the Second Royal Armoured Cavalry Division during Bannister Cameron’s command the man was known for running a tight Mech Regiment, even if he was also a bit of a joker at times, Bannister had kept tabs on many of the officers and warriors who had served in his command.
“Thank you, sir” he replied but didn’t move from his position.
“Either way, Major, today my children join the ranks of the Star League Defence Force I’ve retired from command duties take anything else to your CO.”
“Yes, sir, I normally would but he isn’t part of the family and doesn’t credit my work with the attention it should require.” He said “the family” was what members of the Second Royal Armoured Cavalry Division, the crew of the SLS Wasp, and their descendants often regarded themselves as original members of the Star League Defence Force out of their place in time and now part of this new Star League. Bannister Cameron and his own direct family tried not to make such references they were members of the Star League regardless of what era they were in.
“Then you go sideways, Major, come now you can’t have raised in rank without knowing how to speak to your superiors and get your ideas forwards?” He asked finally looking at the man as the last ranks of cadets passed the tower.
“Yes, sir, I mean no, sir, I do have alternative reporting methods but this intelligence refers to something I have found from the records of the Second and the Wasp and I wished make further enquires.”
“As your question Major” Bannister said deciding to humour the man as he was part of the family.
“I was wondering if the name Fenwick meant anything to you?”
“Fenwick” Bannister repeated a moment or two later “Fenwick” he said rolling the name around in his mind for a moment. “I vaguely remember a Michael Fenwick but that was when I was still a Lieutenant.” He said as the Major took a step closer.
“Sir, there was eight Fenwicks in the original Star League Defence Force all died during the Liberation of the Terran Hegemony campaign. However I do not refer to an individual instead a system.”
“A system?” Bannister asked glancing at Andrea who also shrugged her shoulders “a system that appears on our records but not on those of the Inner Sphere. Sir, we know that ComStar hid systems from the Inner Sphere and then the Word of Blake did the same. Fenwick could be another of those systems.”
“And why is your CO not crediting this intelligence as important as they should?”
“Because the information comes from a member of the Wasp’s original crew an officer who is no longer with us.” He said seeing Bannister give a questioning look “I was tasked with going through their personal databases to ensure no tactical or classified data in their logs before it was archived permanently.”
“And this data isn’t backed up elsewhere?” Andrea Kincaid-Cameron asked speaking for the first time remaining by her husband’s side. Despite Victor Steiner-Davion being the First Lord of the Star League and basing himself and his wife off of Terra Bannister and Cameron were still considered to be the “first family” of the Star League and seeing them together was a morale booster for many.
“Nothing that directly refers to it, which is why the data has been written off, there is nothing left not even on some of ComStar’s old record files.”
“Is the system there?” Bannister asked beginning to wonder if the reason the Major’s work had been written off was because it had been checked and there was nothing there.
“There is a system there with five planets unfortunately it is far off the local JumpShip traffic routes and has rarely been visited. Reports suggest that a JumpShip did travel through the system in 2843 looking for dissidents to Kurita rulership they found no worlds within the Habitation Zone but a proper survey of the system was not conducted.”
“Kurita?”
“Yes sir, the system is currently within space controlled by the Draconis Combine.” He said breaking the next reason that his superiors didn’t want to approach the problem.
“Send your findings to my office Major, I promise nothing, I’ll have a look over your data and speak with some of my advisors and we will get back to you.” He said to a grateful looking Major.
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Three weeks passed before Simon Rosberg heard anything back about the intelligence data. However it was not with a direct confirmation that his findings had been correct instead it was with the arrival of a Lieutenant with orders for him to report to the SLS Bremen, a Peter-class Scout Ship. The Star League Defence Force was not just sending a team to Fenwick they were sending Simon Rosberg himself.
Trial of Annihilation
Blackstone, Periphery
25th October 3108
For six days the Clans had fought over the surface of Blackstone engaging the Society and pirate forces that littered the world. Now the Clans had focused their attention on a single fortress that remained half buried under a mountain of rock.
“After the orbital bombardment has silenced the external guns I will employ a Cluster to subdue he survivors within.” Gottgreid Amirault Khan of Clan Hell’s Horses stated looking at Khan Canin Rosse of the Clan’s on Blackstone only the Nova Cats and Hell’s Horses had the available forces to attack.
“I will employ the same orbital bombardment” Rosse admitted he hated its use but the Society had proven to be dishonourable so he had agreed not to oppose its use. “I will then employ a Supernova Binary, the 212th Nova Cat Headhunter to be exact, to take out the facility.”
“A Supernova Binary it cannot be done!”
“I will provide you with their codex data” he said placing a portable holo imager on the table. Moments later codex data and profiles of the warriors but Gottgreid Amirault was not interested.
“Khan Rosse you will see your men dead if you attempt this Trial.” He said Canin Rosse actually thought the younger man was concerned for the Nova Cat’s safety a surprising revelation about the leader of another Clan.
“Do you concede this bid?”
“Aff I do”
“Very well then we shall begin” Canin Rosse said triumphantly still confident that his single Supernova could do what the Hell’s Horses Khan claimed it could not. The next two hour consisted of several Clan WarShips bombarding a specific section of the fortress creating a gap in its defences so that the Clan ground forces could move in. In the space between the Khan’s Encampment and the fortress two Stars of BattleMechs, a single star of Battle Armour and several APCs prepared for the ground assault on the fortress.
“What is this Khan Rosse you said two Supernovas what are the APCs there for? Have your kittens got sore feet?”
“Neg, they are transporting my star of conventional infantry.”
“Conventional Infantry? An entire Star of them?” The Horse Khan asked surprised all of the Clans had conventional infantry forces but rarely were they deployed with front-line forces. Where a normal Battle Armour star had twenty-five members this formation had five times the number and would be far more capable in the close quarters of the fortress. Khan Amirault looked at the old Nova Cat Khan realizing that he still had several tricks left in him.
“Aff, one hundred and twenty-five troopers the second star of my Supernova. I did offer to show you their codex information.” Rosse suggested as the ground troops began their assault the BattleMechs leading the way behind them the star of Battle Armour followed and flanked the Mechs providing support.
“I do not recognize the Battle Armour suits either” Gottgreid Amirault noted having been thwarted by Khan Rosse once he now realized that the Khan had included yet another element to the unit which he was not aware.
“A new design named the Nemean” he said referring to the four legged Battle Armour suit “an assault chassis with a variety of weapons capable of tackling a wide range of rolls.”
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As the Khans discussed the battle below the Nova Cat Supernova moved forwards at pace the BattleMechs began firing all of them were of the dezgra classification of BattleMechs, units the Nova Cats officially did not acknowledge existed, the mixed binary of Spector, Liberator and Exterminator BattleMechs firing their weapons at the fortress doors further weakening them. The bombardment had silenced the Fortress’s guns but still its armoured doors stood under the punishment of the BattleMech’s guns. With the BattleMechs holding the perimeter the Nemeans and infantry moved forwards with the Battle Armour suits providing close in cover two points swarmed over the doors setting up charges across its surface then they all pulled back. After a couple of moments there was a huge explosion which crumpled and shattered the fortress doors. From inside weapons fire began to fire on the Nova Cats.
In his Exterminator Dezgra Star Captain Elijah Lossey targeted the troops inside the facility firing his heavy and extended range lasers and long range missiles. On either side Nova Cat BattleMechs followed the same targeting anything that moved red and opal beams of light burned into enemy targets as missiles exploded around them. Further missiles and pulse lasers joined Elijah’s fire. “Star Commander Jalo move your people in, clear them up.” He commanded the Nemean star then ran forwards breaking formation breaching the front of the facility “Spectors move up give them support the rest of us maintain the perimeter.”
The quad Battle Armour star moved forwards led by a point of five suits armed with Battle Armour autocannons, a light machine gun and Inner Sphere built Firedrake Needlers threatening any of the defenders with a hair of fire. Behind them another point flooded into the area firing short range missiles and lasers as they closed. The Nemean assault had opened the first area of the fortress to the Nova Cats but the facility was still extensive beneath them which was where the Infantry would come into play. While Battle Armour troopers would struggle to move in the tight confines of the facility the Infantry would have no such trouble.
Moving in their points each trooper was equipped with a Mauser IIC Infantry Assault System which had a pulse rifle, grenade launcher and vibroblade bayonet while several troopers also carried a Heavy support laser system. As they moved into the facility the Battle Armour troopers blow open the armoured doors inside the facility allowing them access deeper into the fortress. The bigger corridors were taken by the Battle Armour troopers two points in one corridor and the remaining three in the second corridor each supported by a point of infantry for clearing the smaller rooms while the remaining infantry took the remaining three access corridors.
What followed was four hours of room to room fighting as the Nova Cats eliminated every living thing in the facility. Casualties were high on both sides with seventy-five percent of the Nova Cat conventional infantry killed in the fighting as were ten of the Battle Armoured Nemean pilots though several of their suits would be salvageable. As a final measure to ensure that the facility could not be used by pirate forces the Nova Cats placed the equivalent explosives of ten capital missiles in the lowest level of the facility detonating them once their forces were cleared from the facility reducing it all to rubble.
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The DC were very kind to the FS, eliminating Mordecia for them.
Hopefully the First Prince remembers to say thank you.
Finally the Ravens rebuilding their fleet.
The society and pirates on Blackstone, no wonder Khan Rosse made sure it was never used again.
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Nice update. Additionally, it's good to see one of my designs make it to your AU.
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call me slow (my wife does...) I'm confused on the Fenwick situation in the Star League section? Potential lost world, tid-bit of intrigue?
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call me slow (my wife does...) I'm confused on the Fenwick situation in the Star League section? Potential lost world, tid-bit of intrigue?
It doesn't appear in the FM: SLDF maps, so it sounds more like a world that never made it on the maps or was purposely completely left off them - though it could have had it's name changed and is the equivalent of one of the "hidden" worlds ComStar worked on.
I'm a bit surprised that the Sceptre, Spartan, Superb, and Sovereign sub-classes are making it into the story this "year," if the pair of Unkindness are still on schedule to leave the slips this year, that's a possible 6 new ships for the Ravens in a year - unless the sub-classes are refits of the existing Splendids.
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Nice update.
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call me slow (my wife does...) I'm confused on the Fenwick situation in the Star League section? Potential lost world, tid-bit of intrigue?
It doesn't appear in the FM: SLDF maps, so it sounds more like a world that never made it on the maps or was purposely completely left off them - though it could have had it's name changed and is the equivalent of one of the "hidden" worlds ComStar worked on.
It's a quiet little system... 8)
EDIT
The Duchy of Grand Fenwick (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=20636.msg461608#msg461608)
Or at least, how it was before Dragoncat got his paws on it.
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Home of the noise mices, I love Fenwick
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It's a quiet little system... 8)
EDIT
The Duchy of Grand Fenwick (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=20636.msg461608#msg461608)
Or at least, how it was before Dragoncat got his paws on it.
Honestly reminds me of the Duchy of New Assam in the FWL. A Single continent separate from the rest of the planet (Which is part of another FWL Province)... that can field 3 regiments of infantry, 4 batteries of mobile artillery and two old beat up Wolverines as it's provincial military.
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Home of the noise mices, I love Fenwick
Ah, yes, the so-called "Roaring Mouse" (Sufflatorium Mus), the most famous native species of the Fenwick system. Very popular as pets among the higher ranks of the Star League court, back in the day...
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All I'll say about Fenwick is that a) the information they've got on Fenwick isn't 100% accurate in the text above b) I'm taking at least part of the suggestion JA Baker made on OBT about it incidentally on the same message as he showed off the original Imperial (it actually wasn't a rip off but was built to do the job then I changed it... I kind of liked the original too)
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Ah, yes, the so-called "Roaring Mouse" (Sufflatorium Mus), the most famous native species of the Fenwick system. Very popular as pets among the higher ranks of the Star League court, back in the day...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bkq1PAyGuZY&ytbChannel=Ivan%20Emanuel then :p
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Ah, yes, the so-called "Roaring Mouse" (Sufflatorium Mus), the most famous native species of the Fenwick system. Very popular as pets among the higher ranks of the Star League court, back in the day...
By the way JA I love your take on Fenwick, as a great fan of the books. I missed the posting of them back in the day.
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Snakespinner - the little Mordecia situation may still bite the Suns
Sharpnel - I really liked the art and the Battle Armour you came up with the configurable turret option it gives lots of options.
Wrangler - it's JA Baker's system with a bit of modification - it'll feature probably in December update as a written out piece and might feature for a few months as we begin to see what Fenwick has hidden away.
Vition2 - surprise new ships (intentionally not listed previously because they are not actually in production yet)
Anyway November update is here. If anyone ever wants to hear from somewhere in the Inner Sphere or Periphery (Clan Homeworlds not included) feel free to ask I know I tend to keep to a few storylines but am happy to include other things.
Noble Birth
Hesperus II, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
3rd November 3108
On Hesperus II Vedet Brewer the heir to the Brewer family line is born. To celebrate his birth Vedet’s father announces that the Third Hesperus Guard Regiment will be formed to defend to defend Vedet, the factories of Hesperus II and the Isle of Skye. Although officially part of the Isle of Skye military the Skye commanders are quietly becoming concerned about the forces on Hesperus II which themselves number four regiments which includes highly trained members of what was once the Grey Death Legion.
Border conflict
District of Oriente, Free Worlds League
Capellan Confederation
18th November 3108
In a change of tactics the Capellan Confederation target the heart of the District of Oriente assaulting New Delos, Harsefeld and Second Chance each with an elite Warrior House, either a house or mercenary regiment and three previously unseen Mandarin-class Battle-cruisers. The three ships each come in at one million-one hundred-and-fifty thousand tons and their deployment completely surprise every intelligence agency in the Inner Sphere as no-one knew these vessels were even under construction. This appearance of three fully operational WarShips leads many to wonder if the Capellans have another active shipyard facility within their controlled space.
As Capellan troops burn towards their target worlds the three Mandarin’s eliminate all space defenders in each system with the CCSS Sun Wukong employing nuclear tipped capital missiles to eliminate the OPS Ipswich in the Second Chance system while the CCSS Qin Sin Huang employed orbital bombardment on New Delos to completely obliterate the elite Iron Guard from orbit causing hundreds of thousands of civilian deaths in collateral damage as Capellan gunners indiscriminately fire on the planet’s surface causing massive damage, though they hold off on the use of nuclear ordinance. Surviving commanders, and civilian leaders, on New Delos order the remaining Fourth District of Oriente Fusiliers to surrender to stave off further orbital bombardment. Immediately the survivors of the Fourth Fusiliers are rounded up and put in Prisoner of War camps while their BattleMechs and Armoured Vehicles are shipped off planet within days of the planetary surrender.
The Capellan naval strategy in this small campaign shows a return to the naval warfare employed during the early Succession Wars that many feared was never far away. As the Capellan military might gains control of three systems the Maskirovka cause Oriente’s Seventh Militia to retreat from Old Kentucky as they turn to population against the occupying force rendering their position untenable. For decades the Mask had operated several Secret training facilities on the world and when the Free Worlds League captured Old Kentucky the agents had gone to ground leaving a significant Maskirovka presence on the world. These victories by the Capellans effectively sunder the District of Oriente into two distinct halves leading to further questions over if Oriente can survive as an independent state.
Trials of Possession
Quatre Belle Naval Shipyards
Raven Alliance
26th November 3108
Hours ago the fighting in the Quatre Belle system had ended and now in a scene that the Inner Sphere could never imagine seeing on one of the system’s many space stations Star Commodore Kevin Leroux, the commander of the Nova Cat WarShip Eternity, a Vision Seeker-class Battle-cruiser, stood opposite his Snow Raven opponent both were unarmed and had no guards. “You may have destroyed the Karl Devalis and Liger but the battle favoured us and we forced the surrender of your defence force. We will claim the Sword of Orion now.” He said four days before the Nova Cats had arrived in the Quatre Belle system with the entire Karl Devalis Naval Star and declared a Trial of Possession over the Sword of Orion, an under construction Arbitration-class Battleship. After nearly twenty-two hours of battle three Snow Raven WarShips had been destroyed, two more crippled while the Nova Cats had lost the Battle-cruiser Karl Devalis and the Strike Cruiser Liger while all others had been badly damaged.
“The vessel is not even complete” Star Admiral Adam McCorkell the man who had commanded the battle and done well to put together a cobbled together naval star to oppose the Nova Cats.
“Nevertheless we will take possession of the ship, now.” Kevin Leroux pressed
“Your Clan has never possessed Battleship class vessels perhaps we could come to a compromise we can provide you with more Vision Seeker or Splendid-class vessels?”
“Neg, Star Admiral” Kevin Leroux said crossing the room placing his glass on the side table pouring himself another drink of a local drink. “I understand that you will likely face challenge over the loss of the Sword of Orion but we came here for one of the Arbitrations and that ship is clearly the most complete of the two so we will take possession of it.”
“You never stipulated which ship…”
“Neither did you and as victor I can choose what I get.” Leroux said stepping away from table with two glasses in his hands handing one to McCorkell. “Your men and women fought well they have lost no honour today but they faced opponents who desired victory far more.”
“Which is something which will worry my Khans” he admitted “you will have your WarShip I will ensure she is fuelled and prepared for the journey to your Den.” He said chinking his glass with Kevin Leroux’s glass in an Inner Sphere style salute.
“Seyla” they both recited completing the after action ritual in the traditional Clan manner before drinking their drinks in silence. Nearly a week later the Nova Cats left Quatre Belle with their prize-ship heading for home. After extensive checks the Raven salvage teams decide that the Nova Cat vessel Karl Devalis is the only hulk that is salvageable and move it into one of the repair docks while having the other wreckage moved to be stripped for parts.
Author note
The Mandarin-class Battle-cruiser is JA Baker's Battle-cruiser posted a little while ago on the forums. Akin to the Splendid variants this wasn't added to the production sheet intentionally because I wanted their arrival to be a surprise. The fluff for my AU is different from the ship presented but it at least lets you see her.
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=56188.0 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=56188.0)
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Why do I get the feeling that the arrival of the Mandarin class in Oriente will bring out a lot more nukes.
Finally the Nova Cats get a battleship, now they just need a few more.
I wonder who has a large amount just sitting around. >:D O0
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Noooo! Mah Arbie!
On a more serious note, I actually had figured the Sword of Orion was a contract job for the Cats anyways, the name didn't really evoke "Raven" in my mind and felt a little strange - not sure it was really worth a total of 4 warships between the two clans though, but I guess it does depend on what the Ravens lost, and gaining an Anna Rosse isn't a horrible silver lining though.
Nice to see the Cappies get a new warship, Feddies still need a proper walloping though. >:D
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I'm wondering DC, when I'll read about that'lil old ship that has my fingerprints on. Curious how you'll pop her in and where. One reson I follow is because you've surprisd me a few times. Keep up the good work, please.
I love to have more good readin's and all.
TT
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Painful losses, 3 warships and an Arbitration under construction for the Ravens. Ouchie...
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Capellans going in with their ships the way did was brutal. They must have broken some rules of the Ares agreement. They hit civilian locations. I'm very surprised the SLDF isn't being called up to take care of this.
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Capellans going in with their ships the way did was brutal. They must have broken some rules of the Ares agreement. They hit civilian locations. I'm very surprised the SLDF isn't being called up to take care of this.
The SLDF are split between the Jade Falcon and Wolf Empire boarders, and barely have enough warships for that, and even if the FedSuns are willing to sell them more Indies, with the threat of resurgent CapCon and Combine fleets, they'll probably want to keep any new builds for themselves.
That said, I do remember my conversation with DragonCat regarding the Fenwick system... 8)
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Next update nowhere near ready so I'll answer here
Snakespinner it's actually the Cats second Battleship after the former Goliath Scorpion Nighlord
As for lots of unbusy ships the Falcon ones won't be quiet for too long
Vition they were always Raven but when I decided there would be a ToP Sword of Orion jumped at me to become a cat ship on the top of my head I know a Splendid and an Aegis were lost I can't remember third
TT I haven't forgotten about it and it's introduction will be in 3109. You might even see both versions of it in a way
Wrangler Politics, while JA Baker makes a valid point as well, the Cappies are not in the League any deployment of the SLDF would be one of declaring war. While the FS would like that others want the SLDF doing what they are supposed to do watch the Clans. Also Regulus do not want the SLDF involved since they benefit from a weak Oriente. There's going to be a lot on this.
JA yeah what we discussed especially the SA in a big role in that system anyway
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Finally ending 3108 - I'll be putting up unit listings, WarShips and the map but not tonight as I'm shattered just an update.
Defence Line
Ronel, Addicks PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
8th December 3108
After being forced from Ozawa Colonel Hague, commander of the McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry had requested a posting off the front-lines but they had got as far as Ronel before the Draconis Combine had come calling once more only this time they were combined with the Second Robinson Rangers RCT who were far from ready to be forced into retreat. Now Major Ariana Steiner stalked her Warhawk OmniMech along the front-lines targeting an enemy causing heavy damage to an enemy Mauler BattleMech. Ariana was lining up a second shot when an Ajax Assault Tank bearing the colours of the Second Robinson moved out from Ariana’s rear arc and opened fire on the Mauler with its trio of rotary autocannons tearing open the enemy BattleMech puncturing the missile ammunition bays causing a huge explosion which consumed the enemy BattleMech. Ariana watched as the Ajax drove along the line engaging a Grand Dragon BattleMech which had been weakened by defence fire from the Rangers/Cavalry line.
The fighting continued for several hours as the defenders held the line and Ariana lost track of the Ajax but she wasn’t done with the crew. After the battle she stalked around the base looking for the armour crew eventually finding a young man standing near one of the Rangers Ajax tanks he wore the uniform and insignia of a Captain but looked far too young for the rank. “I’m looking for the commander of this vehicle.”
“That would be me” he answered confidently Ariana looked him up and down he was an attractive young man, perhaps around twenty years old, with brown hair and a well trimmed beard.
“You enjoy stealing other people’s kills?” She asked accusingly
“We are all on the same side, Major, I was simply doing my bit for my nation and my Prince as you do for your regiment and employer” He said she realized that he was trying to get a reaction from her but at the same time making sense fighting the Combine was not some honour duel.
“While I agree we are on the same side I could have taken the BattleMechs arranged against me.” She said annoyed that this tanker didn’t seem to care that he had interfered in a bigger battle. But his attitude made her more curious than anything.
“What’s your name Captain?”
“Duncan Sandoval” he replied Ariana looked at him more carefully for a moment suddenly seeing the family resemblance between Duncan and his father Tancred Sandoval. She had known the young scion of was a member of the AFFS but she hadn’t realized he had joined the armour corps or that he had been assigned to the Combine border. Suddenly the Ajax and his rank made sense as did him not caring he was becoming involved in a battle between MechWarriors.
“Was this your first real combat against the Combine?” He nodded his reply “you did well, hopefully we will fight together again in the future” she said nodding to him before walking off knowing find that he was watching her walk off.
Science Block C
Wolf Compound 4, Gallery
Halfway Province, Lyran Commonwealth
16th December 3108
Dressed in the simple white jacket and blue trousers of a Clan scientist the middle aged woman entered the office finding the elderly scientist sitting behind the desk. “Scientist Riko” she said greeting him as she entered.
“Scientist Elda” he said looking up from his work as she closed the door behind her “what brings you to my humble office?” He asked keeping up appearances before she turned towards him the door closed. “What do you have for me?” He asked in a different tone as he realized the door was closed.
“Star Colonel Djordje has taken our advice to stand down from his position. Star Captain Daniela is most likely to succeed him as commander of the Eleventh assuming the Lyrans will allow our warriors to retain their arms?” She asked moving to the chair opposite him as she did Riko handed her a piece of paper.
“The Lyran High Command has decided that the Eleventh and Twelfth will be Gallery’s official garrison force.” He said summarizing it “they want the militia forces elsewhere and the planetary administrator is quite happy with our Wolves as his defenders?”
“And all it took was a pair of Elemental suits” she said a trade she had suggested involving giving the administrator two of their Battle Armour suits for his personal guard force.
“It seems to have worked” Riko noted “three more of the older warriors have chosen to retire as well opening slots for our new cadets.” He said most of the experienced warriors who had been left behind had stayed because in a Clan as large as Clan Wolf they would have been forgotten at a garrison post or eliminated in a suicide mission. At least here they could live out their years, none were a threat to Riko or Elda. While the younger warriors were even less of a threat most knew little to nothing about being members of a true Clan instead they had grown up with stories of the Exiles battles against the Falcons believing that those were the glory days of old and now they were angry because they were no longer part of Clan Wolf perfect for moulding to their needs.
“That makes over half of the Eleventh and most of the Twelfth under our influence.” Elda said “how are our communications…?”
“There is none of them left within our reach” Riko said glancing towards the floor “the Clans have been very effective in their searches, more effective than we could have expected.”
“So if we had remained with the Wolves we would have been found out” Elda suggested.
“Aff, it appears so”
“Our dream of overcoming the warriors is over.”
“Neg, our dream of destroying the Clans still burns. Now it comes from somewhere else” Riko suggested seeing the question on Elda’s face “from within the Inner Sphere. It was people who came from the Inner Sphere who brought birth to the Clans so it will be poetic that it will be people from the Inner Sphere who bring the death of the Clans.” He pondered “they have already begun the journey with the destruction of the Smoke Jaguars. The people of this state hate the Clans for the damage they have done” He said rising from his chair “we will continue to nurture this hatred until the Falcons, Wolves and all the others fall.”
Pirate Raids
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
21st December 3108
Despite the best efforts of the Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces and the hired mercenary forces pirate raids continue to Carnwath, Izar and Zebeneschamali causing dozens of deaths, including the death of the Zebeneschamali Duke, hundreds of thousands of Kroner in damages to local businesses and civil unrest on each of the three worlds. In each raid the pirates are able to slip away before the defenders are able to fully deploy. These attacks lead to the Third Isle of Skye Guards RCT being deployed to the three worlds with a battalion of BattleMechs and two support regiments to all three worlds in an attempt to stop further attacks but many within the Isle of Skye believe that it isn’t enough eying the Draconis Combine as the most likely culprits for the attacks.
SLS Bremen, Peter-class Scout Ship
Fenwick, Alya Prefecture
Dieron Military District, Draconis Combine
27th December 3108
Simon Rosberg’s stomach rolled as the SLS Bremen jumped into what they believed was the Fenwick system. Immediately after entry to the system the small Peter-class Scout Ship automatically made a course correction diving away from the jump point. “Report!” Captain Blake Hammond commanded as he recovered from the surprise manoeuvre.
“Automatic computer correction” one of the crewmen reported from her station “micro-meteors heading for the jump point. If we were a JumpShip we’d be caught in that in a couple of hours crippled or worse.”
“Coincidence?” Hammond pondered looking at Rosberg as he spoke Simon knew that the Captain didn’t believe it “show me the system.” After a couple of moments the Bremen’s scanners showed images of the star system, all twelve planets, six of them gas giants with a massive amount of moons and a huge asteroid/debris ring between the eighth and ninth planets. Hammond turned towards Rosberg “four planets and nothing to write home about. Those Combine scouts were either drunk or hiding something.” He said looking over the initial scan “this is going to take months to search through, months we don’t have.” He said as Rosberg began looking over the scans.
“Ignore the first three planets they are burned rocks too hot to even consider life. The fourth is a gas giant with a few moons but it looks like the heat from the sun makes its orbit unpredictable nothing could survive near it.” He said rapidly looking through the data hoping to save something from this mission. Four is possible but Five and Six might be better candidates they are just outside the habitation zone but both are giants that produce heat, hell if we came back in a couple of hundred thousand years we might find a second sun” he said looking at the data. “Beyond Seven looks frozen but internal heat from those Giants could be putting out enough heat to support life on a couple of their moons.”
“Right we’ll give one, two and three the once over as we flyby. We’ll spend a couple of days at four and the rest between five and six. If there’s nothing by Six I’m calling it quits Major.”
“Understood Captain” Simon Rosberg said continuing to look at the data he had no idea how the Combine scouts could have gotten things so wrong… and how no-one else had come across this system. Something wasn’t wrong with Fenwick and he planned on finding out what it was and he had nine days before they reached planet four to refine his search perimeters.
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Things are getting deep with the Wolves. More Society Scientists? With Mountain Wolves leaving the Commonwealth, its confusing how they've left behind people unless the merge hasn't been announced yet.
I like the bit with Sandoval, it was nice throw back when Duncan's Great Great Grandfather Aaron Sandoval (the 1st from 3000s) was first a tanker.
Intriguing update, Dragon Cat!
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This is after the Mountain Wolves have left two clusters remained behind as did sone scientists and civilians (less than 10,000 total)
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Very interseting update, lots of yummy plot hooks too!
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Very nice
Interesting defense system in the Fenwick system 8)
and the Society found a place to survive that the Clans can't purge without more trouble then it will be worth. Unless they are willing to resort to Oribital Bombardments to secure the battlefields >:D
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The newest map is on this page on OurBattleTech
https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=1092.30 (https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=1092.30)
I will get units and WarShips soon
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Waits patiently...
TT
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Finally WarShip and Unit lists
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Thanks Dragon Cat, you really put your heart in to this universe!
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I really enjoy the ship lists. looking forward to another year of action.
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The SLDF are split between the Jade Falcon and Wolf Empire boarders, and barely have enough warships for that, and even if the FedSuns are willing to sell them more Indies, with the threat of resurgent CapCon and Combine fleets, they'll probably want to keep any new builds for themselves.
That said, I do remember my conversation with DragonCat regarding the Fenwick system... 8)
The SLDF had sent a couple units to shore up the defenses of the DC, though I don't know if that's still the case - I haven't looked at the unit spreadsheet too hard yet.
Great update Dragon Cat, I'm looking forward to learning more about Fenwick, and the remote location of a potentially major Society holding has many interesting possibilities. >:D
Also, new map in my link for the beginning of 3109 - I think I got all the changes, but please let me know if any discrepancies are noticed. :)
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marauder: you know me I like twists
Wrangler: I've described it previously as an addiction. But I really love he BT universe it's something I enjoy exploring and with this AU in particular, writing by itself has a way of just letting my mind settle down and unwind. The fact that you all enjoy some of the things I come up with is an added bonus and I'm very pleased to share my little adventure and even more surprised that so far things have gone to plan.
cawest: guaranteed
Vition: more on Fenwick this time around, Society soon, thanks for your work on the map and with other fun things including things to come ;)
Before this update I want to thank JA Baker for letting me play with Fenwick it was originally his creation and this version of the small Duchy is based off of one of his suggestions.
New Year’s Party
New Bealton, Odessa
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
1st January 3109
Despite being on assignment every now and then everyone needed a break and New Years was the perfect time for it. Major Morgan Christifori and his unit were stood down from combat assignments and the whole unit were enjoying a party in the premium club in the capital city of Odessa it was nice to relax and enjoy the night as he danced a beautiful woman began dancing near him she had a well tanned and toned body, wore a gold and black dress and brown hair with blonde highlights he couldn’t quite help but look at her and gravitate towards her.
As 3109 began the two danced and enjoyed their night Morgan discovered her name was Marika Danko, a customs and imports officer for Odessa’s spaceport, and couldn’t help but remain near her. When they woke in the morning in Marika’s apartment Morgan woke to deployment orders which would take him to Eaglesham on the Lyran Commonwealth/Draconis Combine border the new couple’s time cut short by duty.
Family Dinner
Buckwell Family Estate, Washburn
District of Marik, Free Worlds League
2nd January 3109
As a couple was being torn apart by duty another was trying to put duty aside and mend something that had been broken. Sitting opposite his wife Joseph Marik really wasn’t looking at the meal in front of him instead he was looking at his wife Lucy Marik she was as beautiful as the day he had met her although he could still tell she was angry with him. “This is nice” he said trying to break the ice he’d arrived the day before but this was their first meeting.
“Eat your food before it gets cold” Lucy said continuing to eat. Joseph decided to accept that they were together and call it a win and began to eat. “You didn’t take Zach with you?”
“I didn’t think it would be appropriate…”
“Appropriate to be with the rest of his family” Lucy snapped “I’m still his mother Joe.”
“I didn’t think it would be appropriate” he repeated “because the scientists are preparing him for his operation.” He said this time he continued to eat forcing her to ask further questions and take an interest in their son.
“What operation?” She demanded
“The doctors who fitted the artificial heart stated that it would not last him long before long he would be reliant on external sources to keep him alive.” He explained seeing her disgust “so I contacted Clan Sea Fox and made a deal.”
“What sort of deal?” She asked her food forgotten as she realized her husband had not only taken steps to artificially keep their son alive but now he had made a deal with the Clan devils to keep him alive.
“They have grown him a new heart, one that lacks the natural imperfections, it is a long and dangerous operation but he is strong and will pull through.” He stated as the doors crept open and in entered six year old Anson Marik.
“Father!” He shouted running into the room moments later his younger sister Ruth followed by Malachi and finally three year old Aaron who ran into Joseph’s open arms sweeping him up off the ground.
“I needed this” Joseph said over the children’s excited questions on seeing their father.
“So did they” Lucy admitted
“Come back to Marik” he said pleading with her to unite their family.
“Perhaps after Zach’s procedure” she suggested “stay tonight?” She asked him quietly as the children continued to jump around excited that their father was there with them.
“Of course I will” he said pulling his wife into a close hug their closeness tonight giving him a little hope that they were heading in the right direction.
Unfortunately elsewhere things were not heading in the right direction as news filtered through that the District of Oriente had struck back at the Capellan Confederation with its full force going on the offensive Oriente had struck at the systems of Ipswich, Anegasaki, Shuen Wan and Pella II employing nuclear weapons in all four to completely obliterate the CCSS Chancellor’s Sword in the Pella II system, to heavily damage the CCSS Chancellor’s Pride in the Ipswich, forcing its withdrawal, and to scour the surface of Ipswich system of all life including the Ninth Capellan Armoured Cavalry, the Sixteenth and Eighteenth Capellan Lancers units. Fighting continues between the Ducal Guard and the Capellan Confederation defenders on Pella II as both sides refuse to employ weapons of mass destruction, unfortunately now Pandora’s Box had been opened few could predict where the madness would end. On Terra, Oriente and Sian diplomats scramble to try and bring the two nations back from the brink but with hundreds of thousands of deaths on Ipswich neither side with to act diplomatically. On Atreus the Free Worlds League Parliament convene an emergency meeting with Captain-General Joseph Marik summoned to explain why he had not controlled Oriente’s use of weapons of mass destruction in direct violation of the Ares Conventions, which all Star League states continued to abide by.
System Survey Mission, SLS Bremen
Fenwick, Alya Prefecture
Dieron Military District, Draconis Combine
5th January 3109
The SLS Bremen had made steady progress through the Fenwick system passing by the first second and third planets of the system making long range scans finding nothing to spark their interest. The fourth planet was of more interest a gas giant with multiple moons the Bremen had planned to spend a couple of days around the planet so Major Simon Rosberg made a slow entry into the command bridge expecting the ship to be making standard survey mission however his arrival showed a ship preparing for additional manoeuvres “Captain?” He said glancing at Captain Blake Hammond who sat near the centre of the compact bridge.
“We detected an artificial metal signature from the asteroid field and the planets beyond” he said “I’ve decided to skip four and head deeper into the system we’ll make scans of the moons as we pass but none appear to have an atmosphere.”
“Just means more time for the other planets” he noted heading over to one of the consoles looking at some of the data “another three days until five” he noted as the Bremen’s main drives kicked in moving them away from the planet. As they moved into open space there was suddenly a huge emergence wave in the system as a ship completed a jump. “That isn’t possible” he whispered stunned at what the Bremen’s systems were telling him. As the ship righted itself in space only a few thousand kilometres away was a one thousand six hundred metre long, million tonne behemoth that was supposed to be extinct. Glancing around the bridge Simon realized in his confusion he had missed the opening communications between the massive WarShip and the Bremen and looked at Captain Hammond.
“I don’t know how but it’s the SLS Cavalier, a Stefan Amaris-class Battleship, and we are intruders into the domain of the Grand Duchy of Fenwick.” He explained looking at Rosberg “we are to follow them to their base of operations or be destroyed.”
“That isn’t possible there were only two of those ships commissioned into the SLDF Fleet during the Civil War and both of them were destroyed during the Liberation of the Terran Hegemony!” Simon Rosberg replied looking at the Captain “all of those ships were destroyed none salvaged.”
“Well this one was and as far as they are concerned this is the last Star League Defence Force and we are intruders. We don’t have an option here, Major.”
“An option” Rosberg repeated “Captain, we have an opportunity and we need to make the most of it. Pass among the crew if anyone has any contact with these people best behaviour. I’m taking command of the mission” he said making it clear to Captain Hammond what was happening before he had been an observer, and perhaps a minor nuisance, now however with contact with the natives Simon wanted to make sure that everything went well.
“Yes sir” Captain Blake Hammond replied annoyed at the sudden change in his passenger but not completely surprised they were the sole representatives of the new SLDF in this system and they needed to make the best first impression.
Reception Area, Grand Duchy of Fenwick
Fenwick, Alya Prefecture
Dieron Military District, Draconis Combine
11th January 3109
The Stefan Amaris-class Battleship Cavalier had escorted them past the fifth planet’s orbit and into orbit of the sixth planet without issue with the Bremen causing them no trouble. Had the Bremen wished to escape there had been plenty opportunity instead they had coasted alongside the massive Battleship until they reached the sixth planet. There, once the Bremen was in the gravity well, they were commanded to send a small craft to meet a group of aerospace fighters.
Major Simon Rosberg had remembered seeing the classic Star League Rapier RPR-100b waiting for his small craft. The aerospace fighter squadron had escorted them on a complex course past several of the moons moving closer and closer to the big orange gas giant. Finally they had entered the orbit of a large moon which was covered in beautiful oceans and green trees. Despite being well out of the system’s habitation zone the moon was kept warm by the heat coming from the gas giant. They had been escorted by the aerospace fighters down through the atmosphere towards a small city below nestled in and around the forests that blanketed the world. Rosberg could only think that the radiation from the planet and the forest cover had hidden the moon but he had no idea how the Combine scouts had missed this planet. From the small craft he was escorted from the small spaceport to a reception area nearby where he had waited. Captain Hammond had offered to send down an escort but the Bremen was a small craft and not designed to send crewmen for ground excursions the small craft was normally for collecting supplies and transferring crewmen but not today. Instead Simon Rosberg stood waiting patiently in the well equipped waiting room with a door at either side of the room and a window looking into the forest that surrounded the spaceport facility. The door behind him opened and Simon turned to look seeing a middle aged man in a modified Star League Defence Force General’s uniform. “I am Field Marshal Galen Prescott it has been many years but I welcome you to the Grand Duchy of Fenwick.”
“Major Simon Rosberg of the Star League Defence Force” he replied looking at the man.
“So many years” he whispered as if he had spoken to the Star League in person before despite the long years of isolation for the people of Fenwick. “So how can we be assistance?”
“I was sent to make contact with your after all these years and access the condition here at Fenwick.”
“Sent by the Commanding-General him/herself I take it?” Prescott asked continuing to fish for information.
“Not quite” he admitted “the leader of the Star League Protectorate Duke Bannister Cameron.”
“The Star League Protectorate… and a living Cameron… after all these years” he repeated slowly before drawing his laser pistol side arm pointing it at Rosberg “do you think we are backward idiots?” He demanded “your ship is an impressive piece of technology and your uniform a good replica but the Star League fell after the murder of the Cameron family by Amaris, Kerensky left the Inner Sphere with the Star League army and years of war followed. People forgot about us but we didn’t forget about the Inner Sphere we’ve come across many like you ‘Major’ and we’ll be ready for many more.” He said as two guards entered the room “for now you and your crew will be our guests until we decide what to do with you.”
“Field Marshal please I am a Major in the reformed Star League Defence Force!” Rosberg protested as the two guards took an arm each and began to drag him out “I was sent to re-establish contact with you and offer you a place within the Protected Planets!” He shouted as the door slid closed behind him. From the other side of the room and two women entered one elderly wearing an elaborate red and blue gown while the other wore a far simpler white dress her dark hair tied up in a single ponytail.
“Grand Duchess Gloriana” Prescott said saluting her as she entered.
“What do you think of him Field Marshal?”
“He has spirit my lady, but then so did the others that have come to Fenwick, we will find out the truth.”
“Do you think it is possible he is telling the truth?” The younger woman asked looking past Prescott at the now closed door.
“I do not see how it could be possible Lady Emily the last we heard from the greater Inner Sphere was that a conflict known as the Fourth Succession War had just begun. What force would make the families of the Inner Sphere come together to reform the League without the Cameron family, and the Hegemony, to act as a counter balance.
“But he spoke of a Cameron” Emily protested
“Unfortunately, my daughter, I have to agree with the Field Marshal” Gloriana said looking at the younger woman. “Amaris was quite effective at wiping out the Cameron family the records we have back to those days are quite clear.” She said looking out the window for a moment “Field Marshal Prescott I trust that your people will go over their ship and its crew with a fine toothcomb. It has been many years since we have had visitors and we need to discover if they can become productive members of this society or if we will have to section them.”
“Section?” Emily said suddenly stunned looking at her mother.
“If they are a threat to us then we will have no option” Gloriana Fenwick replied “they will be well cared for and they will serve us all.”
“A life of hard labour on the asteroids is not well cared for!” Emily Fenwick snapped back at her mother she did not agree with the practice of “Sectioning” prisoners to hard labour as punishment.
“The law is quite clear” Gloriana said sternly “I didn’t make the rules but I will follow them.”
“You have the power to change…”
“Enough” the elder Fenwick finally said to the side Field Marshal Prescott stood uncomfortably as the family members disagreed “it is what it is Emily you will understand when it is your turn to rule you will understand sacrifices must be made to maintain our way of living and complete the tasks that were left for us.”
“But if the Star League have returned…”
“I said enough” Gloriana said this time the anger gone replaced with a calm resolve that indicated her decision was made on the matter and would not be changed today.
Council Chambers
City of Andrey, Tukayyid
Clan Territory, Inner Sphere
20th January 3109
Even as the Fox’s Whelps Khanate of Clan Sea Fox claimed control over the newly completed Halcyon-class Cruiser Triad above Tukayyid at the Unity Shipyards Loremaster of the Clans Thomas Ward stalked around the chambers below on Tukayyid. “We need more resources, Star Colonel” he said looking at one of his subordinates in the Ebon Guard.
“The Clans give Tukayyid what it requires they support its continued development.”
“Not enough” Ward said “we are Clan are we not Star Colonel Diego Binetti?”
“Aff, but we are and we have been tasked with defending Tukayyid and now Solaris.” Binetti replied he was originally from Clan Jade Falcon but was heading towards the end of his career, like many others who were part of the Ebon Guard, he had not shown the passion, skill, ambition or a combination of the three to succeed as a Falcon and been relegated to the Ebon Guard. In some ways Thomas Ward felt sorry for the man but in other ways the Falcon’s loss was his gain.
“We were not born to defend” Thomas Ward complained
“We do not have much choice.”
“We do not? We have ships, we have weapons of war and warriors why should we not strike out?” Ward asked “the Clans do not want to give us all we need then we trial for it.” He stated “pick your people Star Colonel you leave for Altenmarkt the Bears are waiting for you.” He commanded a few hours later the Sixth Ebon Guard Cluster left Tukayyid for a Trial of Possession against the Bears. By the end of January the Ninth and Tenth Ebon Guard Clusters have also struck targets in Sea Fox and Jade Falcon territory angering the other Clans but also increasing all of the Clan’s readiness.
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hey the Cappies have been throwing nuks around for some time.... about time someone did the same to them. the nuking of a planet was a but much, but nuking the ships in space... I say they did it first so they set the rules. it should be interesting to see who it plays out.
that was a good twist. also can not wait to see what happens when they check out the data banks on the SLS Berman
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The CapCon losing a Thera and a Battleship. Ouch, That would really hurt a small navy.
The CapCon started with the nukes so Oriente read the much vaunted Regulan Nuke 'em naval manual 101.
A Stefan Amaris class battleship, oh DC you have really excelled yourself this time. [notworthy] [applause] [cheers]
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The Thera escaped damaged but repairable
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I'm going to post February too. I'll note that using the Stefan Amaris was originally JA Baker's idea though I've developed it a bit more. We'll return there soon
Meeting of Parliament, District Leader Meeting
Atreus City, Atreus
District of Marik, Free Worlds League
5th February 3109
For the last eighteen hours the Free Worlds League Parliament had argued on the world of Atreus over the actions of the District of Oriente during their conflict with the Capellan Confederation and still a consensus had not been reached. The six District leaders had withdrawn from the main Paliament meeting room even as representatives continued to argue over the issues before them. Seated around a long table the six leaders sat two on one side and two opposite while Captain-General Joseph Marik sat at one end of the table and Robert Brett-Marik at the other end.
“Don’t you see Oriente has shown us the way?” Duke Lester Cameron-Jones asked looking around “he has shown the Capellans that we will not hold back and allow them to take our worlds.” He said pointing across at Duke Jonas Halas “a line has been drawn in the sand if the Capellans destroy one of our cities we will destroy one of their systems if they destroy one of our worlds we will destroy three of them…”
“Are you mad?” Prime Minister Abraham Ledford of Bowang asked looking at the other man “have you never read a word of history? The First and Second Succession War approached war like you suggest” he explained rising to his feet to look Lester Cameron-Jones in the face “BILLIONS died in those conflicts because ‘noble’ lords decided that the victims homes would make a good battleground.” He said turning to look at the Captain-General “I plead with Captain-General do not support these actions.” He said sitting back down angering Lester Cameron-Jones with his interruption before Joseph Marik could speak Duke Robert Brett-Marik spoke.
“I too feel I must agree with the Prime Minister” he said remaining seated “total war is not the answer.”
“As do I” Joseph said looking at Jonas Halas “the use of weapons of mass destruction against civilian targets on Ipswich was unnecessary.” He said casting his vote “we do not need to see the genesis of another Succession War started here not in my League.”
“Your League until another replaces you” Halas commented irritated at Joseph’s condemnation of his peoples actions.
“Certainly not by you” Joseph Marik snapped back looking at Halas who looked surprised by the venom in Joseph’s voice “what? Do you really expect me to believe that you did not command the use of nuclear weapons?” He demanded putting Halas on the defence.
“I… was not aware of the…” the Oriente leader stammered out.
“So you are saying as their District Leader and their immediate military commander that you were not completely aware that they had weapons of mass destruction in the possession? Or that you were not aware that your commanders were willing to use such weapons?” Joseph Marik asked going on the offensive sensing Halas weakness “then perhaps I should call on parliament to put more stringent controls on Oriente.” He threatened before turning on Lester Cameron-Jones “and you, you are ready for Capellan retribution with worlds on their border? Are you ready to explain to people that you supported a police that saw billions of deaths including members of their own family?” He demanded looking at the Regulan leader.
“We need to put forward a united front” Duke Raymond Brewer-Cameron-Jones finally said speaking up the Lesnovo leader having remained silent until now.
“I agree” Joseph Marik said “which is why I once again call for a united defence force under the command of this Parliament and under the authority of the Captain-General. Together we can face down our opponents and react immediately to threats unlike now where we have to debate the choices that are made.”
“The office of Captain-General needs no further power.” Lester Cameron-Jones said disagreeing with Joseph’s assessment as much as he desired to be the next Captain-General in the elections due later that year but he did not think a Federal Defence Force was an answer. Before anyone else could speak an aide entered handing Joseph a piece of paper which the Captain-General read before hanging his head.
“What is it?” Abraham Ledford asked breaking the silence in the room.
“The Capellan Confederation has responded to Oriente’s attack on Ipswich.” He said “the system of Ohransen has been burned by nuclear fire.” He said stunning the other leaders “Capellan has also been seen on Wazan, Pacht and Corey.” He announced looking between Lester and Jonas “you wanted total war? Now you have it. I am needed in command.” He said walking out of the room leaving the others.
Within hours of Ohransen’s destruction and the attacks on Wazan, Pacht and Corey the worlds of Krybacken and Asuncion request Star League Defence Force protection and are granted such protection by the end of February with SLDF ground and naval forces deployed into both systems. District of Oriente forces continue to resist Capellan forces in several systems but this does not stop units belonging to the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns and mercenary commands land on Second Try and Palos after being invited to the planets by planetary leaders afraid of being caught up in the Oriente/Capellan conflict. While there is no official word from First Lord Victor Steiner-Davion’s office Commanding-General Victor Focht of the Star League Defence Force calls for cooler heads between the two nations while also moving several heavy assets into the area including the Elite First Royal Regimental Brigade, the Second Kearny Regimental Brigade, the super-carrier Enterprise and the Tharkad-class Battle-cruiser Invincible.
Planetary Administrator’s Office
Gallery, New Stockholm
Halfway Province, Lyran Commonwealth
17th February 3109
As the aides opened the Administrator’s office Scientist Riko was quite pleased with himself Star Colonel Daniela had been more than happy to allow him to take her place and represent what remained of the Mountain Wolves on Gallery to the Planetary Administrator. Daniela was an excellent warrior and likely she would make a good commander of the remaining warrior caste, with his guidance, but with her replacing Star Colonel Djordje she had inherited the previous Star Colonel’s administration tasks as well which was keeping the young woman quite busy. Still dressed in the white coat and blue trousers of his caste he approached Administrator Marta Kamen a middle-aged woman with brown hair, tied up, and dark rimmed glasses. She wore a navy suit with a skirt and white shirt formal but at the same time relaxed. “You are not Colonel Djordje.” She said he noted she had dropped the Clan rank and decided that for today at least he’d be better to do the same.
“Colonel Djordje has chosen to retire, Colonel Daniela has taken over from her” he explained “my name is Riko Danvers, I am Scientist General of our people” he explained.
“Very nice to meet you” she said extending her hand which Riko gently shook before taking her offer “Duke Robert Lunius of Halfway asked me to assess what your people could still bring to the Lyran Commonwealth which is why I wished to speak to your Colonel.”
“Unfortunately our military strength is clear to be seen. Khan Kell’s misguided decision to take our Clankin out of the Commonwealth has stripped our people to the bone. However I think there is more that we can do for the Commonwealth than with military force.”
“Oh yes?” Kamen asked
“Aff my Khan…” he said before looking away from her embarrassed “sorry, I mean Administrator” he said seeing out of the corner of his eye a small smile, she liked that authority he had given her, “my people can help staff factories and we still have active research and development of weapons and a developed training regime.” He said producing some paperwork for Kamen who took it and began sifting through the papers. “We have a population of people who wish to work as to make Gallery a better place. And our research into bio-warfare is quite developed.” He said
“You have been developing a weapon that could target specific gene-lines?” She said shocked by what she was reading on the papers.
“It is not actually a weapon” he said attempting to cover the development perhaps the Lyrans were not ready for such things. “We designed to help the Clan iron-womb program, to clear up the Wolves breading program, but it could be developed Khan Kell pulled the funding believing that such a thing could be used…”
“As a weapon of mass destruction…” she whispered “the Clans have such weapons.”
“Aff, they have the means but would not employ them as such.” He reported sensing that she did not like how this was going “we could redevelop this with some support to counter anything that was developed to be used against the ruling line.” He suggested “we also have an extensive training program and room for additional personnel” he said gaining her attention “there are several refugees who have fled the Clans, children who have been shipped here because their parents are missing or dead we could house and teach them.” He suggested making a different approach if he couldn’t get the funding and supplies then having the additional personnel could allow for other developments.
“So you would bring people from out with your own in?”
“We are all one people, Administrator; I wish to contribute to improving Gallery and the Commonwealth.” He said seeing that Marta Kamen liked the sound of that. “We wish to show this nation that we appreciate what this nation has done for us and we wish to give something back.” He said continuing as Kamen stood up Riko did not know the protocol but stood up as well.
“Thank you for your time, Scientist General, I appreciate your assistance and look forward to working with you and your people to make Gallery great again.” Riko nodded shaking her hand again before realizing that his short audience was over. As he left the room he realized that he wanted to come back to this office and the other officers of power in the Commonwealth in the future.
Promenade, Clan Hall
Clan Capitol City, Clan Homeworld
Deep Periphery
22nd February 3109
It had taken more than ten months but Star Colonel Alex Lassenem had finally arrived on the Clan Homeworld. After the battle for the Broadcast Tower his remaining forces had been whittled down to a combined-arms Binary so instead of wasting what warriors he had Alex had called for an extraction from the planet. It had taken nearly a month but the Clan had finally come and his people had been pulled back to Fasa. Once there anger had overcome Alex and had confronted and defeated Galaxy Commander Karen Schmitt in an unaugmented Circle of Equals as was his right as a Clan warrior. Following his victory Karen Schmitt had admitted that the command had come from the Homeworld for the operation on Babylon to be abandoned as a lost cause. With his victory still new Alex had demanded that he and his Osteon be transported to the Homeworld immediately which turned out to be a more difficult proposition than he’d expected. From Fasa he had been put on a JumpShip towards the Kerensky Cluster and after travelling in an indirect route through eight systems he had finally arrived on the Homeworld.
Now Alex Lassenem stood on a world untouched by the Society looking up at the grandiose Clan Hall built in the centre of the capital it resembled the one on Strana Mechty. According to what Alex had heard the system had been discovered in the 3060s and kept hidden from Clan society as a refugee for if the Clan was pushed to the edge. When that edge had come the Clan had pulled in on itself concentrating on the worlds of this system developing them into places where they could rebuild. As the Society had ravaged the Homeworld Clans they had remained hidden but active deploying combat units to the other worlds and assisting Clan forces and civilians escape the Society’s occupation. While he was not completely convinced by the Clan’s strategy he couldn’t argue against their achievements where all other Clans had fallen this still stood, where others escaped to the Inner Sphere his Clan remained fighting for what they believed was theirs.
Heading up the Promenade steps Alex straightened his dress uniform a green jacket and trousers with a black undershirt. As was their custom only his MechWarrior Branch badge and Rank insignia adorned his uniform even the Clan insignia was missing according to the “Old Khan” only once they permanently recaptured Strana Mechty could warriors wear the Clan insignia and be proud. As he reached to top of the stairs Alex Lassenem stopped and stood stunned looking at the Clan flags in front of the Hall there were twenty… one representing each of the original Clans formed by Nicholas Kerensky among them one for the Not-Named Clan. The Not Named Clan’s flag had not flown over any Clan World since they were annihilated soon after the formation of Clans. Regaining his composure Alex looked at the flags once more before heading into Clan Hall.
Inside the air conditioned reception area a young female warrior wearing a MechWarrior with Hispanic features and dark hair approached “Star Colonel Alex Lassenem, welcome to the Clan Hall, I am the Khan’s aide Star Commander Santana Ebon the Khan is waiting for you.” She said greeting him before turning heading away Alex Lassenem stood there for a moment first the Not Named’s flag flies over a Clan world and now warriors bearing their names stand inside a Clan Hall? As he followed the young woman through the halls he could feel his anger growing the Old Khan had twisted Nicholas Kerensky’s vision of the Clans.
“Star Colonel Alex Lassenem to see you Khan Keller” Santana Ebon said announcing Alex’s arrival before leaving the room. Khan Katja Keller was more than eighty years old a small diminutive woman who had surprised or outwitted each of her opponents through the years allowing each of them to believe her small size meant she was not a threat. Even now looking at her walk with the assistance of a cane Alex sensed she was still a threat.
“My Khan” he said respectfully despite the anger he felt at present first his unit was abandoned on Babylon, then Laurel passed sacrificing herself to get the word of Michael Gibson’s death, then he had learned the Not Named’s flag and name had risen from its long dead ashes.
“You sound annoyed Star Colonel” she said looking him up and down obviously picking up on the anger in his voice despite his best efforts. “Speak your mind” she said leaning back on her office table.
“Aff, Khan” he said the respect was gone from his voice and he nearly spat the title. “You abandoned my unit on Babylon to die. You sent us to eliminate Michael Gibson and yet when you had the opportunity to support our efforts and complete our mission you pulled back and left us!” He said angrily venting his anger on the old woman but never closing within striking distance.
“Aff, I did” she admitted stunning him “and you as a Clan warrior continued on with the determination that I would expect.” She said standing back up “I ordered you into a bad position and the intelligence you gathered proved that Michael Gibson was off Tamaron along with the Absolute Truth and her escorts. This information opened up an opportunity for us to liberate nearly three hundred men, women and children from enforced labour on Tamaron and assault their OmniMech Production facility.” She explained “the Society likes to pretend they have enough resources to protect everything in the Homeworlds but they do not.”
“You sent us on a mission under false pretences” Alex said still angry.
“Neg, if Tameron was still was still under guard we would have supported you. I simply picked the more appropriate target for our limited resources.” She said calmly her calm answer making Alex even more angry but she didn’t stop instead turning on Alex “so you as a Clan Warrior used what resources you had and executed your mission regardless of support. Not only eliminating Alex Gibson but also exposing their attempt to cover that fact up.” She said going over Alex’s successes “than as a loyal member of your Clan and not wanting to see your people slaughtered for their actions on Babylon you called for an extraction from that world which we complied with.” She said now showing that their Clan had not completely abandoned his unit. “You completed you objectives with the resources you had in hand and in a manner that has impressed many within our Clan but I think perhaps it was your reaction to your successes on Babylon that surprised most and impressed me the most.” She said stepping closer to him “instead of accepting your place as one cog in this war machine you argued that you should not have been treated like you were. You stepped up to Karen Schmitt on Fasa defeating her in single combat but seeing her worth to our Clan you left her alive.” Katja Keller said “to me that shows a warrior who is not content with only taking commands but one who wishes to be making the decisions going forwards Quiaff?”
“Aff, my Khan” Alex replied finding his anger had dimmed facing the Old Khan but still there were things that bothered him. “I wish to serve my Clan in the best way I can” he said “but I have questions.”
“I am not surprised this is after all your first time on this world.” She said turning back to her desk. Alex had been born on Hellgate in a refugee camp only to be rescued by Mike Lassenem’s Fourteenth and brought to the Clan’s training halls on Fasa. “Ask your questions Star Colonel.” She commanded moving across the room indicating for Alex to take a seat in front of her which he slowly did.
“I saw the flags outside and your aide’s name…” He said refusing to say the Not-Named Clan’s name as he sat.
“The Wolverines?” She asked turning around the table taking her own seat Alex nodded his answer too shocked that someone spoken their name out loud. Katja Keller chuckled looking at Alex “do you know what one of the Society’s first tactics was when they made their move across the Homeworlds?” She asked Alex shook his head “they had their scientists imbedded with the Clans to corrupt dozens of genetic legacies to weaken them to a point where our genetic pools could not individually sustain us.” She explained “the Serpents came together exactly for this reason the individual Clans could not operate alone their genetic lines were so corrupted that that over time the term bloodnamed would no longer matter.”
“Each Khan has a responsibility to protect the genetic legacy of their Clan whatever way they can.” Alex recited knowing the words well but it still didn’t explain why the Not-Named names had been reborn.
“When the rest of our Clan was driven from the Homeworlds and into the periphery I knew what we had here could not sustain our Clan’s Bloodlines. I introduced warriors from other Clans bringing their legacies into our Clan in an effort to build it but that was not enough. I could have created new legacies from freeborns but it would mean abandoning our past for our future. So we raided the Genetic Repository on Strana Mechty” she explained surprising Alex she saw the surprise and nodded “yes we did that when you were but a child” she explained beginning the story “the Society fought hard that day but eventually we secured the Grand Council and its Halls it was a great day but we knew we would never hold it. I sent people below and when they got to the vaults below they discovered the only legacies that had not been corrupted by the Society were those locked in the Not Named’s archive.” She explained “they wanted to shame us they wanted to show that only by breaking our oath to the Founder could we survive so we did.” She said defiantly “I could not use their names and not speak their name and still use the term Not-named, my hypocrisy goes only so far, so we have accepted that the Wolverines are part of our history, our present and our future but they are not our Clan. We are the Blood Spirits and we will remain standing through all adversity…”
“For the Cause” Alex said reciting the words to complete the phrase known by all members of their Clan. He wasn’t completely convinced by the Khan’s argument but he knew the Society wanted to break the Clans genetically as well as physically.
“Now for your future” she said “Star Colonel Jorgennson has done well in commanding the Fourteenth in your absence and was a very effective commander on Tamaron.”
“Matt knows what he is doing” Alex admitted he’d known he would be giving up the Fourteenth when he accepted the mission on Babylon.
“And your performance on Babylon proves that you are worth more than a Cluster commander.” She said Alex was glad to hear that their sacrifices on Babylon had proven something “and with that I wish to make you the commander of our Watch forces.” She said “you appear to have a knack for acting with little need of direction and with minimal resources. You will answer directly to me and you will help us take the fight from Colleen to the farthest reaches of the Society’s influence. What do you say?” She asked standing looking at him.
“For the Cause” Alex said standing up accepting the position.
“For the Cause” Khan Katja Keller repeated shaking Alex’s hand.
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Intriguing! Blood Spirits finally live up to their origin purpose, keep spirit of the Clans alive. Now they only Clan stands against the Society.
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I'm going to post February too. I'll note that using the Stefan Amaris was originally JA Baker's idea though I've developed it a bit more. We'll return there soon
I only have the faintest recollection of what we discussed, having long ago deleted the messages as part of a “tidy-up” of my in-box, but I remember some parts. I shall keep what I recall to myself and eagerly await to see where you go with the ideas we tossed back and forth.
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Ohh....
Is my contribute being used by the Society?
Ohh....
Gonna have to calm down and wait...
Wait truetanker, wait.... patiently, quiaff?
TT O:-)
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Bloody superb updates, and what the devil is going on Grand Fenwick... also is it just me or are the Tukkyaid Guard thinking of themselves more as a Clan every time they pop up.
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Wrangler: they are survivalists it made sense to me for the Spirits to be the suborn ones who held on. Haven and Colleen made for a perfect hiding spot since in this only the Spirits ever got there.
JA Baker: I appreciate the idea and the use of the Duchy.
Truetanker: the answer to that will come in the future
marauder: glad you liked
Ghost Bear Checkpoint 14
Agamemnon, Market Square
Orestes, Rasalhague Dominion
5th March 3109
Across the busy market square Kathleen Schaefer moved through the crowds heading for the Ghost Bear checkpoint watching the Clan warriors tidy up their equipment. The Bears had become part of this community for years and a retired old woman like Kathleen Schaefer was quite attached to them. “Is something happening Star Commander Harris?” She asked seeing the checkpoint’s commander.
“Mrs Schaefer it’s good to see you” the old warrior said turning towards one of the other warriors “put the additional equipment in the Prime Mover we’re not leaving anything we don’t need to.”
“What’s happening here Harris? Have you all been reassigned? I brought those cookies that you like.”
“Thank you Mrs Schaefer I assure you I’ll make sure everyone gets some on the fight out.” He said the elderly Orestes woman looked shocked. “Did you hear about the arrival of the Coyotes yesterday?” She nodded “they fought and defeated the First Tyr Assault Cluster in a Trial of Possession.” He explained Kathleen Schaefer nodded her understanding though Harris was unsure if she truly understood “that means the Coyotes will be taking control over this planet, at least for now, we’ve been ordered to pull out.”
“The Coyotes? Will they like my cookies?” She asked watching as the last couple of Bears mounted up on their vehicles and began to move out Harris took one last look at the elderly civilian and offered a smile before also jumping up on the transport vehicle.
With Grumlum and Orestes in Coyote hands the Rasalhague Dominion relocates its provincial capital to Altenmarkt while military units are reassigned to new base worlds. For their part the citizens of the two systems adapt to the new rule of Clan Coyote.
First Lord’s Announcement
Unity City, Terra
Star League Protectorate
13th March 3109
In a non-descript office First Lord Victor Steiner-Davion sat in front of the Tri-Vid camera and looked into it. “I am Victor Steiner-Davion” he began ensuring everyone knew exactly who was making this message “I have served for many years as First Prince of the Federated Suns. Many of you have seen me as your enemy; however, today I speak to you as First Lord of the Star League Defence Force. Recently there have been violations of the Ares Accords with weapons of mass destruction and orbital bombardment returning to our battlefields.” He said referring to the Oriente/Capellan Confederation border conflict “technology has improved over the last few years and these weapons are part of our lives we have to live with them. I will not stand by and watch these weapons destroy innocent lives unnecessarily. Today I have signed orders for the Star League Defence Force to oppose any force willing to employ such weapons against civilian targets.” He said pausing for a moment “to this end I have deployed Special Forces personnel and the Fourth WarShip squadron to the Oriente/Confederation border. These forces will observe and stop any unit that has used or plans to use weapons of mass destruction to this end I can announce that Star League Defence Force personnel have detained Sang-shao Ju Kun on Park Place and confiscated the nuclear weapons they were preparing to use on that world. We will not stop the nations of the Inner Sphere fighting that is not the Star League Defence Forces’ purpose; we will however make it difficult for you to wage total war.”
***
Within hours of Victor Steiner-Davion’s announcement and reports of Star League Defence Forces being deployed within the Free Worlds League Capellan Chancellor Dao-Shen Liao made a rare public announcement of his own. “We do not wish to see mass casualties during conflicts with our neighbours.” He said beginning “however the Capellan Confederation will not be bullied by the sham Star League which has shown itself time and again to be simply a pawn of House Steiner-Davion.” He said smiling broadly “I know many of you will likely try to ridicule me for the use of this term but there can be little denying that the Star League serves House Davion and House Steiner over all others. I call for other nations to throw off the Star League’s yoke and return to their own rule. The worlds claimed by the Star League belong to the houses of the Inner Sphere as they have been since the fall of the Terran Hegemony.” He said angrily “the Star League Defence Force’s actions on Park Place are taken as a Declaration of War against the Capellan Confederation.” He said his eyes remaining focused on the Tri-Vid camera “any Star League Defence Force unit seen in territory claimed by the Capellan Confederation will be fire upon.” He warned finally signing off.
Although SLDF actions in the Park Place system put off the Capellan invasion of the system they are unable to stop the Capellans reinforcing their positions on Wazan, Pacht and Corey further bringing them into the Capellans grasp as Oriente troops attempt to regroup after being struck from multiple directions by the Capellans.
Interrogation Room
Fenwick City, Fenwick
Duchy of Fenwick
22nd March 3109
Despite several weeks of questioning Major Simon Rosberg did not feel like he had been mistreated by the secretive people of Fenwick. Even now he sat in a well lit door with windows showing at least some of the forests around them. Across from him sat his ‘interrogator’ who certainly wasn’t a torture specialist instead Captain Curtis Kinsey lounged in his chair as he went through the same papers a two coffee’s sitting on the table between them. Simon decided that despite his interrogator’s laid back attitude they weren’t getting anywhere and instead it was his turn to try and direct the conversation.
“Curtis, can I ask you something officer to officer?” He asked opening the conversation deciding to make sure Kinsey acknowledged he was an officer the older man nodded – win one. “Are you learning anything new from these daily meetings?”
“I learn a little bit every day, Simon, you know that?”
“Of course, but if I may?” Again Kinsey nodded his agreement “I haven’t withheld any non-classified data. I haven’t put up any resistance can’t you at least see I mean you no harm.”
“In your present form no you do not” Curtis Kinsey said “but inside you I see a man that could do me and my people great harm if your put your mind to it.” He said making his beliefs known.
“Exactly” Simon Rosberg said knowing he was on the right track “I could, if I wanted to, cause this system great harm.” He said standing up walking around the room Curtis Kinsey remained seated at ease with the other man. “If I wanted I could have sneaked into this system and you would have never known I was here.”
“And how would you have done that?” Kinsey asked continuing to fish for information Rosberg knew.
“It doesn’t matter” he answered dodging the question he had no intention of fouling up anyone else that followed the Bremen here. “If I had known for certain you were here, as you have inferred many times, you would not have detected the Bremen’s entry into this system and you would have not found my people on their entry.”
“This act of arrogance is not the answer to getting you out of this facility.” Kinsey replied “in fact nothing you say to me could get you out of here Simon, you know this, it is up to powers that are far my station who will make those choices.”
“Well what they need to know is if my ship continues to be overdue then they will send others to this system.”
“That is already being taken care of” Kinsey replied seeing their other man’s surprise he decided to let him in on a secret that had kept Fenwick off the grid for so long. “You said that the Combine scouts that passed through this systems said there was nothing of note with four burned planets none within the habitable zone?”
“Something along those lines, yes” Rosberg confirmed
“Have you not been wondering how they got their information so wrong?” Kinsey teased “they didn’t, in fact they never sent a single message about this system” he said noting Simon Rosberg’s surprise “because we did.”
“You did…” Rosberg said sitting back down “the Combine scouts returned home?”
“Did they? Have you met them? Of course not they were long dead by the time you were even thought of. In fact they were ‘dead’ as soon as that ship left the system.” He said smiling “a volunteer crew replaced the Combine crew they jumped the vessel through its next survey mission completing it, as far as we know, before transmitting all the data. The vessel then had an unfortunate mishap and exploded during a jump heading to the Benjamin system with the ship materializing in pieces, there was no crew to examine and no ship to physically check.”
“What happened to the volunteers?”
“Who knows” Kinsey joked “they knew as soon as they volunteered they would never return to this star system, they didn’t want to come back, they could have died on the JumpShip or they could have gone out there and made lives for themselves I honestly don’t know.”
“What about the original crew?”
“They became productive members of our society here just as you and your people will.”
“But we could bring so much more” Simon Rosberg said this time his words sounding more like a plea “we have not resisted you. We have been honest. All we ever wanted to do was serve the Star League Defence Force, to make a difference.”
“And you will, you will make the SLDF or whomever you work for never come back to this star system, and that difference is something that everyone here will be very thankful for.”
“People will come looking for us” Rosberg warned “the Star League Defence Force know where we went and they have the firepower…” he said before stopping midsentence knowing that it was beginning to sound like a threat. “Curtis let us take some of you from this system we’ll show you how the Inner Sphere has changed we’ll show you how we are not a threat to your people in fact we could make Fenwick great once more.”
“Personally I think you make a good case Simon, but the Ruling Council and the Grand Duchess make the decisions and the answer to the people. General consensus in the system is we remain isolated.”
“So while the Cavilier is jump capable you've never been tempted to have a look into the Inner Sphere?" He asked continuing to try and find out more about the people of Fenwick.
“No it and out two JumpShips have not been used that way. We prefer isolation but we keep them around just in case.” He confirmed “our system is self sufficient we do not need outsiders Simon. Our system values its independence and we won't be surrendering this to anyone.” He said making the Major realize that while Fenwick’s history placed it with the Star League perhaps its future did not. "Each of the Succession Lords tried to claim that they could be the First Lord. So one of them has succeeded and created a new League in their own image. Fenwick will not end up like that." He said as two guards entered
"But it's not like that.." Simon Rosberg protested "why won't you listen to us? Look at our records the Succession States came together, united, to repulse the Clans!" He shouted raising his voice, the wrong thing to do as the two guards grabbed his shoulders.
"The Clans, ah yes, the Star League's superhuman descendants" Kinsey said proving to Rosberg that they had been on board the Bremen and looked at its data. "Do you really think we believe that the Star League Defence Force fell so far to invade the Inner Sphere? Kerensky told us that he wanted nothing to do with the Inner Sphere. He told us that we would be the last guardians of the Star League's legacy and we will not let him down." Kinsey said glancing up at the guards "take him away."
Interception, Stormchaser (League III-class Destroyer)
Ionus, District of Marik
Free Worlds League
28th March 3109
The Stormchaser had returned to the Ionus system after the Shadow Guard had found a couple of technical issues with their newly retrofitted WarShip. The Stormchaser was moving in system towards the shipyard when there were several reported explosions and internal fighting reported on of the orbital warehouses. With the Loyalty Battle Group out of position to intercept the pirates as they withdrew the Stormchaser had been contacted and was tasked with intercepting and destroying the fighters for an additional bonus over and above that the Free Worlds League already paid their mercenary command.
David Prentiss moved across the bridge of the Stormchaser as they approached the incoming DropShips “make final checks on weapons target the lead Mule first with naval gauss. If they survive we target with autocannons and broadside gauss.” He commanded as they approached “next up is the Overlord and Buccaneer.” He said he wished they had their aerospace fighters and DropShips with them but the Stormchaser hadn’t expected combat at Ionus and the Shadow Guard remained concentrated in force ready to oppose Clan Wolf’s raiders. “Can we identify their trails?”
“One of the ships appears to have a Free World League registry” Lieutenant Matt Swift said from the weapons console “both others are registered in the Periphery one in the Marian Hegemony the other the Magistracy of Canopus.”
“Tells us lots” Prentiss commented “communications offer them a chance to surrender” he commanded as the distance between them closed the communications officer looked back across the rectangular command deck and shook her head. “Fine Lt Swift fire at will” he said as the Stormchaser lined up on its target turning slightly in space to aim for the DropShips. Suddenly the pair of forward medium sized naval gauss rifles opened fire. In moments the slugs crossed the distance between them narrowly missing the incoming DropShips “second volley let’s do better this time.” He commanded the crew were still getting used to the new WarShip. This time the gauss rifles were joined by capital grade lasers and autocannons from the vessel’s forward arcs. The front of the Destroyer was alight for a moment as weapons fire left the ship and crossed the void between it and their targets. The time the weapons fire was far more effective with one of the autocannon barrages blowing open the nose of the Mule consigning the DropShip’s crew to their deaths in cold vaccum as the DropShip was torn to pieces. Naval Laser fire burned down the sides of the Overlord but the remaining two DropShips continued forwards. “The Gauss Rifles in the nose need calibrated, let’s make a note of that. Bring us to port and give them a broadside.”
“Forward autocannons are still reloading” Swift reported “autoloader problem.”
“I knew we should have done more shakedown manoeuvres before leaving” Prentiss commented cursing Colonel Storm’s choice to recall them to Spirit so soon following several Wolf raids. Prentiss was glad that the Stormchaser had not been tasked with opposing any Wolves so far since he wasn’t completely convinced the Destroyer was up to the task. “Keep the lasers hot and add them in with the broadside.” He commanded as the Stormchaser continued its turn “helm continue course I want our backs to them if there are any survivors when we pass aft gunners have first crack on them.” He said hoping that the two remaining DropShips didn’t survive that long, if they did then they would be in weapons range of the Stormchaser which wouldn’t look too good.
“Coming into sights and firing” Swift reported as the forward naval lasers and broadside gauss rifles and barracuda launcher fired together this time ripping open the side of the Overlord. In all honesty these three DropShips had no chance against a WarShip of the Stormchaser’s size and armament but they had still gotten further than Prentiss would have liked. His crew needed more training he thought as a naval gauss salvo tore through the nose of the Buccaneer carrying on through the ship and exiting through the aerodyne’s tail section almost completely bisecting the small DropShip. “Targets destroyed sir.”
“Better as the engagement went on Lieutenant, have sensor crews begin searching for any survivors or salvage that could point to the pirate’s origin. Let’s see if we can sweeten our cash sum for this little excursion.” He commanded monitoring the crew as they dealt with the aftermath of their first engagement as battle’s went it had been a very one sided affair. During their search the MS Phillip of Macedonia, the District of Marik’s newest Eagle II-class Frigate, had arrived to assist with their search. An evolution of the original Eagle design the Eagle II was planned to be the Free Worlds League’s future escort design for their Thera and Imperial designs but David Prentiss knew that there were others who wanted to see a new variant of the League-class Destroyer be the Eagle II’s rival and give the Free Worlds League some variety much like that enjoyed by other states.
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nice update... looks like the DD could use some more training time. that will only make them better later.
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SLDF vs CapCon, The Liao's asking TT if they can borrow a few of the nukes he keeps under his bed for rainy days. :D
Fenwick, which way will they jump, very interesting.
The Stormchaser needs some work, crew training and systems calibrated properly.
Always good to have a few volunteers to shoot at to find these problems. ;D O0
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Ouch, loosing Orestes is a big blow considering the factories there, but it was nice to see the human side there
There's a paranoid, hard and quite merciless core to the folks of Fenwick, It'll be interesting to see what happens next. And great 'shakedown' for that League DD.
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Like the way the League III class is looking, hopefully the FWLN will get some?
Politically the League is as interesting as always.
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I have to ask, DC, have you ever seen The Mouse That Roared?
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I actually haven't no but after reading the wiki about it I completely understand where you got the original idea and I love the concept behind it
I really can't say more without giving away the storyline only that people won't be happy with Fenwick
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Nice and exciting updqte. Dragon Cat. Why is the Eagle a Destroyer? It was a Frigate as Eagle unless both classes were re-rated.
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Nice and exciting updqte. Dragon Cat. Why is the Eagle a Destroyer? It was a Frigate as Eagle unless both classes were re-rated.
Fudge I mean fixed lol
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I actually haven't no but after reading the wiki about it I completely understand where you got the original idea and I love the concept behind it
I really can't say more without giving away the storyline only that people won't be happy with Fenwick
You've taken a criminally underrated Peter Sellers comedy and turned it into 1984 meets The Prisoner! [face palm]
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You've taken a criminally underrated Peter Sellers comedy and turned it into 1984 meets The Prisoner! [face palm]
nods and that what I love about DC
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Stormchaser will get lots of training where it is.
Fenwick will run a while. It won't be all doom and gloom but there's going to be at least a couple more twists. I didn't want a "vanilla" Fenwick JA Baker has already done that instead I'm trying something with a little more to it.
marauder - as far as Orestes yeah I wanted to show what the Coyotes were doing to move forward but not from a military side instead approach the civilian life that's affected.
MarikMilitiaMan - they might get something similar but not the same
Time to explore some of my other stories
Field Test
Belogost, Independent World
Periphery
3rd April 3109
Dropping through the atmosphere of the independent system of Belogost the Clan Nova Cat Vanguard-class DropShip Vasa headed towards the pirate settlement on the planet below until a couple of months before Belogost had been a vibrant independent Barony who openly traded with the Nova Cat traders treating the Clansmen equally with other trade partners. Now however the world was overrun by two pirate bands that had continuously made war on each other, exploited the population and attacked the Federated Suns and Nova Cat traders, today that changed.
Star Colonel Nai Drummond sat in his Nova Cat II OmniMech and looked at the altimeter which showed the DropShip’s height as it dived through the atmosphere. As the DropShip fell suddenly so did its cargo of the OmniMechs, Battle Armour and ProtoMechs which dropped from the bottom of the DropShip towards the ground. In the air already flew ten OmniFighters proving an escort for Nai’s Third Nova Cat Roar Cluster as it deployed from the DropShip. Aware that in this battle they would be contested at all times the vehicle bays which were normally equipped with heavy combat vehicles today were equipped with a variety of attack and transport VTOLs which launched from the upper section of the DropShip as it entered the lower atmosphere. Among these forty VTOLs were four brand new Strix Attack VTOLs which utilized Stealth Armour technology giving them an added edge over other VTOLs.
Even as Nai Drummond’s ground forces landed on the planet the VTOLs and aerospace fighters were already launching attacks against the pirate’s main base a massive castle like fortification with concentrated attacks and strafing runs. Distracted by the air attacks the pirates were unprepared for the assault from the two OmniMech stars, supported by ProtoMechs and Battle Armour troopers. Attacked on multiple fronts the pirates had no chance against the incoming Nova Cats who quickly overwhelmed and capture or destroy the remaining pirates.
With their original leaders dead the Nova Cats decide that Belogost requires their protection on a more permanent basis taking over control of the planet. Two of the four Strix VTOLs had been lost during the fighting and while the Strix was effective in combat as a scout and a harasser the Nova Cats believed that the design needed more work before being mass produced.
Border Raids
District of Dieron/Isle of Skye
Draconis Combine/Lyran Commonwealth
9th April 3109
With several worlds of the Isle of Skye suffering repeated raids the Isle of Skye Provincial Military Command launch several raids into the District of Dieron officially searching for the origin of the leaders who have struck their worlds. In the La Blon system the Fourteenth Sun Zhang Training Cadre embarrass the Fifth Isle of Skye Guards sending them home minus nearly an entire combined arms regiment.
Following the Skye raids the District of Dieron retaliate but go further than raids invading and conquering Ryde and Marfik with the Third Legion of Vega and the Ryuken Roku units the Isle of Skye militias defending these worlds stand no chance of maintaining their garrison while the barely armed LCS Thorin, a Fox-class Merchant vessel, is obliterated at the Hyde system’s nadir point by fighters of the Ryuken Roku. They Lyrans make an official protest to the Star League Defence Force for the Combine’s actions but because Skye acted first the Archon refuses to support a Skye led invasion of the District of Dieron instead desiring to maintain the status quo.
Capellan Conflict, Border fighting
Capellan Confederation
18th April 3109
Even as the Lyran/Combine border erupts into fighting the Capellans secure control over Wazan, Pacht and Corey driving off the remaining Oriente troops. Refusing to allow the Capellans to have everything their own way the District of Regulus wades into the battle assaulting Capellan troops on New Delos, Second Chance and Varna.
In both the New Delos and Second Chance system the Regulans attempt to destroy the Capellan Mandarin-class Battle-cruisers in these systems only to face further nuclear fire which sees the CCSS Qin Shi Huang crippled and under Regulan control in the New Delos system and the RS Regulus, an Agamemnon-class Heavy Cruiser, destroyed. On the surface of New Delos, Second Chance and Varna the Capellans continue to resist the District of Regulan troops but the Regulan actions are enough for Park Place, Ibstock and Bernado to request Regulan defence.
SLDF Staging Area
City of Stiller, Eaglesham
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
25th April 3109
In a small briefing room on Eaglesham Major Morgan Christifori and the officers of his battalion waited quietly for the arrival of their briefing officer. The Star League Defence Force had orders for them to enter the Draconis Combine, a job that had become much more difficult following the raids by the Isle of Skye, today they’d get the specifics. The door swung open and in entered a woman wearing the duty uniform of an SLDF Officer carrying the insignia of a Captain. Morgan watched her instantly recognizing her as the “Customs Officer” on Odessa. Throughout the briefing Morgan barely listened instead he remembered the New Year’s party he knew that the details would be in the mission pack and that this briefing was purely to show the personal side of Star League Intelligence.
“Alright people you’ve heard the lady” Christifori said from his chair looking around his troops “get your gear ready to move.” He commanded dismissing the Battalion’s officers around him. He remained seated as they left around him. At the front of the room Marika Danko took a seat behind the front table like a teacher watching her students leave as the last left he pulled the door closed behind him realizing that Morgan wished a private word with the briefing officer. “You lied.”
“I protected you, Major, it’s my job” she said remaining seated “the Command doesn’t like fraternization between officers you know that…”
“Officers should not fraternize if they are in the same unit. We are not in the same unit.” He said it was a thin line and he wasn’t convinced that their superiors would completely agree but he was willing to chance it if she was. “Now if you didn’t want anything to do with me that’s fine.”
“It’s not that" she said glancing away from him "I just don’t know where we will be in six months to start something” she said rising to begin to pack her briefing bag.
“Well I guess I’ll be in the Draconis Combine” Morgan said turning towards the exit not completely convinced with how this was ending. “Keep in touch, Captain, I don’t think we’re quite done here.” He said leaving the room a few hours later Morgan’s Ninety-fifth Special Operations Battalion was ready to leave Eaglesham and enter the Draconis Combine. Their mission was to track down the raiders who had sparked the conflict between the Lyran Commonwealth and the Draconis Combine and their first mission would be to Vega.
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Interesting update I wished we could have gotten more details of the Regulan Naval Battle!
Thanks yet again, Dragon Cat!
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[watch]
TT
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Can the CapCon afford too much more nuking.
[watch] [cheers] [brew]
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Lossing a Heavy Cruiser but capturing an all be it damaged Battlecruiser might be considered a fair trade by some. Only surprised her crew didn't scuttle her (is, set off one of the nukes inside the hull).
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Only surprised her crew didn't scuttle her (is, set off one ofthe nukes inside the hull).
Shhhhhhhh...they havent gotten to that part yet. Timer and all. Its a surprise. O:-)
J/k. :D
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Shhhhhhhh...they havent gotten to that part yet. Timer and all. Its a surprise. O:-)
J/k. :D
I believe you're thinking of the SLS Campbeltown: her scuttling charge went off hours after she should have, taken the RWR prize crew with her.
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Awesome stuff! Been meaning yo catch up for a long time and waant disappointed. How are my hellraisers? We still on wolot, watching everything around us burn?Or are we off to help the fedsuns against the combine!?
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Wrangler - I know but nuke fights in space really bore me
JA Baker - I was tempted
Foxx Ital - they are still in the Bowang Free Trade Sphere, they'll have something to do in the future.
Bannister Cameron’s Residence
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
5th May 3109
Phones rang through the darkened personal residence of Bannister Cameron as the Duke scrambled out the side of the bed and grabbed the handset. “If the world isn’t ending I’m hanging up.” He promised whomever it was on the other side of the line. After a moment Cameron was fully awake and sitting up out of the bed “can you say that again?” He asked rising from the bed and heading into his personal study. “Okay I want you to send me everything that you have as it comes in.” He said as his wife Andrea appeared at the door wrapped in a bed robe “go back to bed my dear I’ll be along presently.” He promised her covering the mouthpiece of the handset momentarily “listen very carefully I want a copy of everything the investigation brings up… no I said everything… yes, I am going to look into this personally, yes, independently of the Intelligence Command, no, I trust them implicitly but I sent that crew on this mission and I want the answers.” He said cutting off the link. For several minutes he sat in his study thinking things over according to the report the SLS Bremen had jumped into the Saffel system and exploded soon after its entry into the system with all hands lost.
***
Three days later Bannister Cameron had looked over the initial salvage reports from the wreckage of the SLS Bremen. So far the salvagers had found enough bio-matter to match the missing crewmen and the ship’s sensor data from its mission to Fenwick system. But looking at how the Bremen had exploded he wasn’t convinced that it was the accident it had been reported as. Instead now he stood in his work office in Unity City looking over the data as he waited for the communications system to connect. Suddenly the large screen opposite him activated and an image beamed via one of Terra’s HPG arrays broadcast an image directly from Tharkad. “Director Reece Kennic, it’s good to see you again.”
“Duke Cameron, what a nice surprise” he said greeting the Protectorate leader “I trust your family is well?”
“Very well, Director, thank you for asking.” Cameron said pleasantly Director Kennic was the co-owner of Lockheed/CBM of Tharkad the producers of the Peter and Isis classes.
“How can I be of assistance?”
“I am sending you a classified Star League Intelligence Data File in conjunction with this message Director. I would like your people to analyse this and give me your findings.” Bannister Cameron explained “Director, Star League Intelligence will likely also be contacting you regarding this please give them the same cooperation that you have given me.”
“Of course, Duke Cameron, if I may ask this is very unconventional why are you doing this personally?”
“I began this and I wish to see the end of it.” Bannister explained he had trusted Simon Rosberg, gotten the mission confirmed, and very possibly gotten him killed.
“Of course we will investigate as much as we can” the Director promised Cameron knew that the company would do all they could to find the cause of the destruction of the Bremen knowing that if it was a technical failure there could be a chance the other ships of the class could be susceptible. Personally Duke Bannister Cameron hoped that it was not a technical defect.
***
In the Fenwick Simon Rosberg was oblivious to Bannister Cameron’s personal crusade to discover what had happened to the Bremen instead he and the other sixty-one crewmen of the Bremen were getting used to “The Section.” In the last couple of weeks Rosberg had learned much about his new surroundings the Section was a strange mix of hardened criminals who were sentenced to hard labour instead of the death sentence, those who wanted to make a little extra on their monthly income accepting a few days in the asteroid belt to boost their pay and thrill seekers who wanted to try something different.
The Bremen’s crew had been added to a work detail of those who wished to boost their income and all things considered it wasn’t a difficult job they had been given. Each day they were collected from a converted Monolith-class JumpShip by small craft known as “Rockhoppers” they were taken to various asteroids in the massive belt of the Fenwick system where they dug out the metals. So far Rosberg couldn’t work out what they were using with all the metals that were being dug out, while the space station and small craft would have taken resources all of these were old and had seen many years of service there was nothing that would explain to where the newly dug out metals were being used. Their accommodations on the Monolith were actually quite comfortable and the guards quite lax Rosberg had already passed word to all his people from the Bremen that he wanted no heroics and no trouble, he still had hopes that the leadership of the Fenwick system would agree to meet with the leadership of the Star League Defence Force.
Promenade, Nova Cat Clan Hall
City of Andrey, Tukayyid
Clan Space Inner Sphere
12th May 3109
The City of Andrey was a growing metropolis on Tukayyid and it showcased the best of Clan society with huge buildings housing the population and providing work spaces while leaving the outer world untouched by the Clan’s industry. In the centre of the city there was the Main Clan Hall, the individual Bloodhouse Chapels and the individual Clan Halls all set into an area of space where the towering buildings overlooked them but none overwhelmed. The grounds around the Main Hall and all others were protected by the Ebon Guard Clusters every day of the year. None of the Clans were allowed BattleMechs, Armour, ProtoMechs or Battle Armour units in the area instead they were restricted to conventional infantry units to protect their own Halls and provide internal security this allowed the Ebon Guard to react instantly and overwhelm disturbances with force without causing too much collateral damage.
It had taken Lucian months of planning and thousands of C-Bills to get him to Tukayyid. He had then spend weeks restricted to the Inner Sphere visitor section several kilometres south of Andrey before finally things seemed to fall into place. A Free Guilds work detail had been going to the city and Lucian had bribed a member of the work force to take his place claiming to be a rich trader who wanted to experience life as a Free Guilds worker for a day unsurprisingly the worker had agreed for a price and Lucian had gotten his way to the reserve around the Clan Halls. Once out of the visitor section slipping away from the worker had not been difficult and Lucian was sure the man wouldn’t mind, if they were caught together then the worker would have faced some serious charges for assisting an Inner Sphere citizen.
The sun was going down by the time Lucian made his move and despite the strong Ebon Guard presence he had slipped over the fence and through the reserve joining the ranks of workers and visitors who were making his way slowly up the steps towards the Clan Nova Cat Hall. For years he had dreamed for this moment as he approached the hall, thinking about what he would do when he got here, how he would introduce himself to the Clan, how he’d make them accept him. Even as he was lost in his thoughts twenty-five Clan troopers emerged from the building flooding the stairs with weapons pointed in his direction rapidly surrounding him to the dismay of the workers and visitors. An elderly warrior unarmed warrior wearing the black uniform of the Nova Cats adorned by the Clan’s insignia stepped in front of him “Identify yourself” the man said despite being unarmed Lucian got the impression he was as dangerous as the others.
“My name is Lucian Allard-Liao” he said looking the warrior in the eye “my mother is Megan Allard-Liao, the Duchess of St Ives, and my father was Grayson Rosse. By birth I am a member of the Nova Cat I claim that heritage.” He said defiant over his position before he could speak another word the old warrior lashed out striking Lucian in the face knocking him out in a single blow.
“I Star Commander Hunter Lenardon, I claim this surat as a bondsman to Clan Nova Cat.” He said in a loud voice so all of the warriors and the lower castes could hear him. “Take him inside, the Khan can decide what needs done.”
Coordination Centre
Vega, Vega Prefecture
Dieron Military District, Draconis Combine
20th May 3109
As the clock stuck 0900 just as the Vega Prefecture Command and Coordination Centre filled for the day a nuclear explosion originating from within the Command Centre wipes out the entire facility. Along with the Vega Prefecture Command, the planetary Duke, Third Dieron Regulars Regiment and nearly three million civilians in the surrounding city are all wiped out in an instant. With the Isle of Skye continuing to raid the Dieron Military District the destruction of Vega’s Command and Control causes issues throughout the Vega Prefecture.
Border Conflict
District of Regulus/Glasgow Commonality
Free Worlds League/Capellan Confederation
23rd May 3109
In an operation of asset denial the CCSS Wu Zetian, a Mandarin-class Battle-cruiser, jumps into the New Delos system and unleashes twin volleys of nuclear enhanced capital missiles at the former-CCSS Qin Shi Huang and its nearby guard the RS Kirc Cameron-Jones. While anti-missile system knock down many of the incoming it is not enough to take out all the missiles which do enough damage to make both vessels not worth salvaging. The Wu Zetian then remains in system as Warrior House Dai Da Chi and the Confederation Guard abandon the system to the District of Regulus. Elsewhere mercenaries under Confederation contact land on Quemoy engaging the Sixth Orloff Grenadiers Brigade. After several weeks of fighting on the planet the mercenaries are forced into retreat by the Grenadiers who maintain control over the world.
As the Capellans deny Regulus one of their WarShips and Oriente troops hold onto Quemoy the OPS Lancelot escorts the Seventh Oriente Hussars Regiment to Jasmine while the OPS Second Chance escorts the Sixth Fusiliers of Oriente to Fujidera bringing both worlds back into the District of Oriente.
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Tickity-tock....
What's Lucian up to now, I wonder... ;)
TT
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Yeash, talking about denying assets!
Wrangler - I know but nuke fights in space really bore me
I was joking saying the league people boarding the ship would have been treated to a nuclear self-destruct. Not normal combat.
Tickity-tock....
What's Lucian up to now, I wonder... ;)
TT
Properly pulling something his alternate universe relative did, Phelan Kell, did. ;)
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The League II/III Stormchaser
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=57325.0 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=57325.0)
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I had forgotten about Grayson's kid.. that was a good call back... can not wait to see how that turns out. I see a lot of KP and latrine cleaning in his near future.
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The League II/III Stormchaser
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=57325.0 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=57325.0)
This looks like a ship that the Wolf's Dragoons might like a few of
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Vega Prefecture Command and Coordination Centre 9am Nuke... So whose was it?
and glad to see that Bannister Cameron wants to make sure
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Atmospheric insertion over Nasew
Vega, Vega Prefecture
Dieron Military District, Draconis Combine
6th June 3109
As their DropShip Atlanta’s Hunt lowered through the atmosphere Major Morgan Christifori monitored the communications below hearing the chaos erupting below. The nuclear explosion had wiped out the City of Neucason causing millions of deaths and creating a radioactive dead zone around the city. Local services were trying to help the people there but they were being swamped and now across the planet’s second city Nasew a series of car bombs had exploded causing yet further troubles. As the planet reeled from the loss at Neucason and now these new attacks the planet’s communications grids were being swamped with propaganda of the Word of Blake’s rise from the ashes which was causing more trouble. “We’re going to need the whole group” Morgan said looking at the boards deep inside the Fortress-class DropShip “Captain, communicate with the Stoat have them return back to orbit and send a message to Odessa, we’ll need more than just our Battalion here.” He commanded his XO Captain Cassadee Grann.
“What are we going to do?” Grann asked before leaving
“We’re going to see if we can pull the Third Dieron together and see if we can bring some order to the planet.”
“That’s not exactly our mission Major” she pointed out.
“No it isn’t” Morgan Christifori admitted looking at the screens “but I can’t watch that planet rip itself apart, I won’t watch it, we’ll land outside Nasew and try to contact the Third Dieron’s Second Battalion and try to coordinate with them.” He said watching as the Atlanta’s Hunt’s sensors detected another massive car bomb explosion inside Nasew. “Whoever is behind this going to pay but first we do what we can to help.” He said as she nodded and left the room behind and above the Fortress the unit’s second DropShip a Leopard CV began to rise back into orbit. From there the aerospace fighters could still assist the unit but the Leopard would be safe from the fighting on the ground if he could have done without the Hunt Morgan would have sent it back into orbit as well.
Thirty-sixth Star League Games
Star League Stadium, Solaris VII
Independent World
9th June 3109
In the Thirty-sixth Star League Games Clan Wolf dominate the competition once more with Star Captain Beckham Kerensky, in his Tomahawk Assault OmniMech, once again showing that in a melee environment such as the one seen in the Star League Stadium the young Wolf warrior is on a level of his own.
Elsewhere on Defiance Clan Wolf is also victorious in the Martial Olympiad ground campaign as the Clan shows that despite the lack of action coming from the Wolves that their Touman is ready for battle. Missing from the entire Martial Olympiad are the Capellan Confederation and Draconis Combine both refusing to attend due to border issues with the Federated Suns. In the space over Defiance the LCS Flygia of the Lyran Commonwealth is victorious for a second time in the modern era defeating all others for efficiency and combat readiness.
Border Fighting
Ozawa, Ashio Prefecture
Dieron Military District, Draconis Combine
14th June 3109
The SM1 Tank Destroyer took off into the air as it jumped over a small hill on the insignificant world of Ozawa as the Federated Suns attempted to wrest the world back from the Draconis Combine. Over the last few days fighting had once again flared up on the border as the Draconis Combine had raided Deneb Kaitos, Ankaa, Mallory’s World and Fellenin II the Federated Suns had retaliated but instead of raiding worlds had struck out at Ozawa, Mata and Romam with enough forces to take them back from the Draconis Combine.
On Ozawa the Second Robinson Rangers RCT had been joined by the First McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry Regiment fighting against the Twenty-fourth Dieron Regiment. As part of the Second Robinson Captain Duncan Sandoval was pressing his attack with his platoon of SM1 Tank Destroyers while the BattleMechs of his RCT and of the Mercenaries held the line. The SM1s purchased by the AFFS from Clan Sea Fox gave his unit a boost in firepower and mobility that few other units could. The SM1s ran quickly across the ground coming around behind a group of Dieron BattleMechs and Duncan lined his hovertank up on a Ryoken KU OmniMech “Striker Mikes fire on my go, three, two, one. Trigger! Trigger! Trigger!” He commanded over the radio as all four hovertanks fired their assault autocannons targeting the backs of the Draconis Combine lance. As they fired BattleMechs which had taken the Combine lances attention in the first place also fired combining their fire with the tanks obliterating the entire lance. As the four SM1s ran past the wrecked BattleMech lance they crossed in between the BattleMechs turning behind them preparing for another run. Their job was simple to keep the Dieron Regulars on edge as the main AFFS/Mercenary force moved through the Combine lines Ozawa would be a Federated Suns holding by the end of the day as would Mata and Romam as the AFFS fought battles it was guaranteed of winning.
Coordination and Command Centre, SLS Tiderace
Swartklip, Inarcs Theatre
Coventry Province, Lyran Commonwealth
21st June 3109
The two SLDF WarShips had entered the Swartklip system four days before and started the slow burn towards Swartklip III the lesser of two planets that were inhabited in the system. Swartklip V was the primary planet of the system with the majority of the population on a world that was comfortable for human life while Swartklip III was primarily a mining world surrounded by space stations. Over the years several of these space stations had been turned over from cargo collection points to maintenance yards for the planets in the region with several companies beginning maintenance firms to support the spaceships that passed through the system.
Now the SLDF had moved into the system and would be creating their own facility to maintain Star League vessels and give them a listening post in the system. Captain Chris Fisher monitored their progress from the command centre onboard the SLS Tiderace, one of the Star League Navy’s newest Antares-class Support Vessels, which would be the centre of the SLDF’s operations in the Swartklip system.
“Captain, we have a Union-class DropShip approaching, they claim to have the planetary duke on board.”
“Duke Miller, we should be so honoured.” Fisher commented “cut acceleration allow them to dock and for the Duke to board then cut them loose and keep us on course. I’m going to go meet our guest.” He commanded turning towards the exit.
Below decks Fisher met with Duke Alano Miller the civilian leader of the Swartkilp system a slightly overweight man with dark grey receding hair with black rimmed glasses. “Welcome onboard the SLS Tiderace, Duke Miller, I’m Captain Christopher Fisher the commander of this vessel.” Fisher said offering him a salute as the Duke boarded the vessel.
“Thank you, Commander, a mighty vessel you have here” Miller replied “it is so nice to have support from the Star League Defence Force in this system a permanent military presence with be a welcome sight.”
“Well the Tiderace will be here for the next few months the Strider is simply dropping off a few additional DropShips before she moves onto another assignment.” Fisher explained as they moved through the ship he felt the gravity shift slightly as the ship’s acceleration resumed.
“But there will be a permanent military presence from the Star League here at Swartklip, that was part of the agreement!” Miller snapped
“There will be Star League Defence Force personnel on the stations once they are operational and likely on the ground but there is no guarantee of a naval presence in the system.” Fisher explained “if the naval vessels are required elsewhere they will be deployed.”
“But we are on the frontline against the Clans. At least we have Tiderace here to support our defence.”
“The Lyrans are on the front-lines Swartklip will be in a position to support operations.” He explained “Tiderace would do everything it could to protect this system but our ship is designed for support operations not front-line combat.” He explained “until our bases are established the Star League Defence Force cannot take full responsibility for the system’s defence.”
“Which is why our system will not be accepted into the Protected Planets Accord?”
“That is one of the reasons” Fisher explained wishing one of the Diplomatic Corps had also attended this meeting “once the Star League Defence Force presence in this system has been established and the Estates Generals pass the decree Swartklip will officially join the Protected Planets. Until then you will be under dual authority of the Lyran Commonwealth and the Star League.”
“But ultimately we will answer to…”
“Someone with a higher rank than me” Fisher admitted running out of things to say to Miller “Duke Miller, I just build things I don’t make policy.”
“I understand, Captain, Inarcs, Tharkad and Terra will need to figure this out.” Miller decided not to push it further “meanwhile, Captain, I’d like to extend a welcome to all of your people during their stay in this system. We might not have much, Captain, but I’m sure we’ll have something to fit your needs.” He said deciding to try the welcoming approach instead of trying to force the SLDF into their support.
Rest Period, Charles Martel (Modified Monolith)
Fenwick, Alya Prefecture
Dieron Military District, Draconis Combine
28th June 3109
After a long days work Simon Rosberg returned to his quarters on board the modified Monolith-class JumpShip Charles Martel for a rest period only to find someone was waiting for him. The person was dressed in work clothing of one of the ‘Section’ inmates but he didn’t recognize who it was, a woman, he realized as he entered the room. “Erm, this is my room and I’m pretty sure we’re not supposed to share.”
“No, you’re correct, we are not” she said turning round it took Simon a moment to recognize her under the grim.
“Duchess Fenwick” he said in a low surprised voice recognizing the younger member of the Fenwick system that he had met on their primary moon. “I’m sorry but what are you doing here?”
“Any member of this system’s population can choose to work over the weekend I have decided to work” she explained looking quite happy with herself as she slipped off his bunk “and after the weekend is over we will be returning to Fenwick.”
“We?”
“Yes, one of my guards will remain in your stead until we sort this mess out. The station guards area aware.” She said seeing the confusion on his face under the grim. “My mother believes she is protecting Fenwick with her actions but I believe that it is time for us to return to the Inner Sphere on our own terms before they choose to try and force us.” She explained “I would rather we approach your Star League before they come here with an assault fleet or worse.”
“I will not leave my people to rot here…” he began but she interrupted
“While we worked I spoke with Captain Kinsey when we were working he agrees that ultimately they are his crew even if it is your mission. He agrees that he will continue to follow your orders but that you need to come with me to Fenwick.”
“Does he now?” Simon asked as Emily Fenwick slipped out of his room “let’s get through this weekend then the real work begins.”
***
While Emily Fenwick was trying to sort her system out from within Duke Bannister Cameron was continuing to search for answers from outside the star system. With his own investigation and the one undertaken by the Star League Intelligence Command Bannister was convinced that there was something else going on in the Fenwick system than “nothing here move on.” According to the work done by Lockheed/CM of Tharkad the explosion which had destroyed the Bremen should never have originated from where it did as all crews had been briefed not to store dangerous items in that section of the ship. According to the Star League investigation sensor data in the Saffel system showed there was nothing else wrong with the vessel physically with no visual markers which showed anything wrong with the ship.
Using his remaining contacts in the military and his position as the leader of the Star League Protectorate Duke Bannister Cameron boarded the Navy’s newest Indefatigable-class Battleship, the SLS Warlock, moving through the vessel he entered the command centre of the vessel and instantly felt all eyes turn towards him. “Duke Cameron welcome onboard” the vessel’s commander said greeting him this time they were not taking any more chances.
“Thank you, Commodore Vale; you have received the order packet?”
“Yes, sir, we are completely at your disposal and the Seventy-seventh Special Operations Group are on board and ready.” Nadia Vale said as Bannister approached the central holotank like most WarShips the Warlock’s central command was a large rectangular room with the crew sitting facing outwards while the commander stood or sat near the middle where they could monitor everything. The room was dominated by a large holotank which showed the Warlock’s relative position in the system and everything else around it. At the back of the room there was a secondary holotank which could also be utilized if required.
“Very good then when you are ready take us to Fenwick if you please.” He commanded due to demands on the fleet the SLS Warlock only had two escorts the recently launched SLS Calais, a Dante II-class Frigate, and the SLS Foscari, a Hound-class Corvette. As the three ships jumped clear of the Terran system Bannister was confident that the three WarShips, their support craft and the carried troops would be enough to overcome anything in the Fenwick system.
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Another fine update, sir.
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this could be touchy... your BB vs BB with support. maybe you want to talk now?
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Loki are really desperate to see what's on that dropship at any cost.
An Amaris vs an Indefatigable class. A possible naval battle. Better get the popcorn and beer just in case. O0
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What happens at Fenwick will be revealed in the next huge update in the meantime here's the Fesnyng-class DropShip
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=57371.new#new (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=57371.new#new)
snakespinner Loki want on what DropShip?
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The lyrans will put hgr's on anything...i approve
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The lyrans will put hgr's on anything...i approve
Next time, of Pimp My 'Mech:
"Yo Dawg, I heard you like Heavy Gauss Rifles, so we put a Heavy Gauss Rifle on your Heavy Gauss Rifle, so you can use your Heavy Gauss Rifle while using your Heavy Gauss Rifle!"
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Waystation 3
Fenwick, Alya Prefecture
Draconis Combine
3rd July 3109
It had not been difficult for Duchess Emily Fenwick and Major Simon Rosberg to leave the section with the falsified papers that had been provided for Rosberg. From the Section they had been transferred by Rockhopper to a way station in orbit over Fenwick. Standing in one of the space station’s cargo bays Simon waited nervously his work clothes from the Section not completely inconspicuous. After a short period Emily Fenwick walked over the bay wearing a white tank top and dark shorts for the first time Simon got a proper look of her she was five or six years younger than him with well toned muscles. “Sorry for the holdup” she said approaching him.
“It’s better than mining all day.” He replied “interesting outfit for an orbital transfer.”
“There’s only one way down at this time of day” she said pointing towards one of the Thug BattleMechs that stood silently in one of the Mechbays.
“You’re kidding me” Simon said looking at her surprised “I’ve never even seen the inside of one of those things let alone dropped in one of them. I’m an analyst not a fighter.”
“Not a fighter?” Emily said smiling broadly for a moment Simon thought the sun had come up “but an analyst with six separate close-quarters fighting styles.” She said remembering what she had read on his file which was on the Bremen.”
“Someone has to have a hobby”
“Its fine I’m going to be the pilot.” She replied revealing a new side to her “I don’t get to do this much.” She admitted smirking as she stepped past him filling Simon with confidence.
Shortly afterwards they were sat in the dual cockpit of the Thug BattleMech “now which control was it again…” Emily Fenwick whispered glancing back at the rear cockpit “I’m joking” she said “this is Foxtrot Four ready for drop” she sent to the station’s control room “roger that in three, two, one detaching! See you guys later!” She called out as the pod holding the Thug opened fell out of the cargo bay of the space station slamming into the atmosphere. After only a couple of minutes the pod exploded open falling into four sections which each its own parachute. Without the pod to slow its progress the Thug plummeted like a stone its speed increasing as gravity took over. “The most fun way to the ground” Emily said looking over her shoulder at a visibly paled Simon Rosberg “don’t worry, Major, I got this” she promised him suddenly cutting in the BattleMech’s jump jets and the BattleMech’s retrofitted backpack which suddenly slowed its fall towards the ground.
“You know it isn’t all that bad” Simon Rosberg said after a few minutes taking in the sights of Fenwick as the BattleMech fell it was a beautiful moon that the people of this system had made their primary home.
“Just wait for the impact” she said cutting off the backpack increasing the speed of the BattleMech’s fall.
“Impact?” Simon asked suddenly not feeling so comfortable as the BattleMech continued to fall.
“Yeah the impact” she said finally moments before the Thug came crashing down for a landing which wasn’t the heaviest of impacts but then again was still eighty tons of metal slamming into the ground. Emily expertly ran the BattleMech forwards converting some of the energy from the landing lessening the blow.
“Well that was interesting” Simon said quietly wondering why anyone would voluntarily want to do that as a job serving in a command and control, or looking over battle reports he understood but falling through the sky in metal coffins was something he really didn’t understand. Glancing around and at the Thug’s sensors he saw that they had landed on an exercise field most likely used by the Fenwick military given the number of vehicles and support structures nearby.
“Oh no” Emily whispered after a moment while Simon had been taking in the sights she had connected to the Fenwick military network and picked up on some chatter.
“What’s going on?”
“The Star League Defence Force has arrived…” she said as planetary militia forces began moving around the field “we need to speak to my mother before something stupid happens.”
“How long do we have?” Simon asked
***
At the nadir point of the Fenwick system the SLS Warlord and its escorts the SLS Calais and Foscari entered the Fenwick system finding the nadir point abandoned. After a few moments the powerful sensors on the three WarShips revealed a far more complex system than they had expected. “I knew there was something wrong with this system.” Bannister Cameron said triumphantly now with more desire than ever to discover what happened to the Bremen’s crew.
“Sir, the asteroids” one of the crewmen warned as the sensors detected several asteroids closing slowly on the nadir and zenith points “they are not on natural orbits… and they are armed with nuclear weapons!” He warned looking over at Commodore Nadia Vale.
“Prepare for an emergency jump, sensors focus on the dead zones of this system or it’s Kuiper Belt we’ll jump without leaving if we have to!” She said thinking quickly there was more to Fenwick and they’d find out what it was even if it meant going the long way.
“Commodore, communications we need to try and speak to them…”
“They murdered the Bremen’s crew” Vale said angrily
“We have to try” Cameron demanded knowing that while they had come here armed for a conflict it couldn’t finish that way without trying something different.
***
On the ground Emily Fenwick had pushed her eighty ton assault BattleMech to its maximum to reach the Fenwick Family Residence in Fenwick City. When reaching the city limits she had made her identity known and received an escort through the city rapidly increasing her progress. Abandoning the BattleMech at the front of the Residence she and Simon Rosberg ran through the residence finally arriving at her mother’s primary meeting room. “Emily, it is about time you are here, where have you been? Playing at being a solider again?” She demanded glancing up seeing that Simon was with her “and what is HE doing here?” Her reaction to his presence immediately gaining the attention the guards present.
“He is with me” Emily stated calling them off “mother we cannot win a war with the SLDF.” She said angrily “if we start a conflict with them it will be the end of the life we have built here.”
“We can show them we are strong that Fenwick has stood on its own all of these years and can stand up for itself…”
“But at what cost? Our weapons will be like bows and arrows compared to what they can bring here.” Emily said attempting to shock her mother into standing down from the course she was taking. “I know what you are thinking we stand up to them we show them what we can do and if they defeat us then they will rebuild us stronger than ever because of our valiant actions. But the damage that will be caused will be immeasurable.” She said Duchess Gloriana Fenwick looked at her daughter and then towards her military commander Field Marshal Galen Prescott.
“Continue deployment of the Cavalier but send a message that they only fire if they are fired upon.” She said looking at her daughter and then towards Simon Rosberg “we won’t start this.”
***
Near Fenwick’s star the three SLDF WarShips maintained their positions to the star as another massive radiation spike appeared on sensors before the massive Stefan Amaris-class Battleship Cavalier appeared nearby orientating its broadside towards the SLDF vessels.
“Bring us to port” Vale ordered “target vessel with weapons as we turn, fire on my command.”
“Belay that!” Bannister Cameron commanded from his position near the central holo-tank immediately he gained an angry look from Commodore Vale. “Scan that vessel what class is it?” He commanded ignoring the Commodore’s glare.
“It’s a Stefan Amaris-class Battleship… a Rim Worlds Republic design that served during the Civil War.” Vale said glancing at the warbook in front of her “there weren’t many built and according to our historical records they were all destroyed.”
“Exactly” Cameron said looking at the holotank image of the ship “it hasn’t fired on us and it might hold the answer to what is going on in this system. They wish to provoke a fight with this action well we’re not going to take the bait.” He announced looking at the screen seeing a two headed eagle and the number twelve on its nose. “Open a communication link” he said making a choice after a moment he spoke “this is Duke Bannister Cameron on board the Star League Starship Warlock. We mean no hostile intent. We have come to this system in search for the crew of the SLS Bremen who went missing while looking at this system. I repeat we mean no hostile intent against this system we would prefer to open diplomatic relations with this system and the Star League Protectorate.”
***
On the moon Bannister Cameron’s words filled the airwaves and a strange sense of disappointment, relief and elation crossed through the room as they realized that the Star League Defence Force were not here to make war. Duchess Gloriana Fenwick looked at her daughter with a mixture of frustration and pride. “Daughter, perhaps you should take over” she said passing over her authority to Emily. Before she left Gloriana Fenwick looked at Major Simon Rosberg she didn’t say anything instead she just nodded towards him before turning and leaving planning room.
“Field Marshal have the Cavalier offer to escort the Warlock in…” Emily mumbled quietly as her mother walked out she and Simon shared a glance and grabbed each other in an embrace as the relief washed over them. Near the Nadir point the Cavalier and the Warlock began to move into the system with the Calais and Forscari remaining at the Nadir point.
Diplomatic Mission, Fenwick City
Fenwick, Alya Prefecture
Dieron Military Prefecture, Draconis Combine
10th July 3109
The Outpost-class DropShip had landed on Fenwick and deployed a lance of OmniMechs a Hauptmann, a Templar, a Sunder and a Black Watch all Sphere’s designed Assault OmniMechs. On board each rode a squad of Battle Armoured troopers while a single armoured vehicle also left the DropShip and carried Bannister Cameron across the landing field to the small facility. Inside Bannister felt like he had gone through another miss-jump and returned to the Star League-era with the décor one that matched that of the classic Star League Defence Force. He was led by a man and woman dressed in standard SLDF fatigues from the first Star League through standard military corridors to an equally standard meeting room.
For more than an hour he waited in the room without a single person entering from the planet. Sat behind the meeting room table Bannister Cameron wondered if this waiting game would go on much longer when the door was opened by the guards and in entered Major Simon Rosberg who wore a plain green jumpsuit. Immediately Bannister Cameron saluted which he then dropped without waiting for a response “Duke Cameron welcome to Fenwick” he added remaining standing.
“Major, it’s good to see you alive, I assume the rest of the Bremen’s crew are also alive?”
“A few bumps and scrapes from Fenwick’s penal system but they are alive and since your arrival in quite comfortable accommodations here on their primary moon.”
“Primary?” Cameron asked the Warlock’s massed sensor arrays had detected artificial signatures but nothing to indicate further habitats.
“Yes” Rosberg replied “the majority of their population is here on Fenwick but the people of this system have been here and explored the system thoroughly from what I’ve been able to piece together they’ve landed on six of the moons in total and more than a dozen of the asteroids. They also have several space stations” he said only through a discussion with the prisoners at the Section and Emily Fenwick did he know that otherwise the people of Fenwick continued to maintain secrecy about their operations and habitation of the Fenwick system.
“So when do I actually get to meet them?” Cameron asked realizing he was being given access to exactly one thing, his own officer.
“Not today” Rosberg admitted seeing the Duke’s face “sir, this system has been in seclusion for a long time their only contact with outsiders has been with those who wished to do them harm or exploit their resources.” Rosberg explained when they treated his crew the way they had Simon had not understood but given time he had learned.
“I understand them being skittish but have we not shown we can be tusted?”
“I believe you have” Rosberg sad trying to calm Cameron “which is why Duchess Emily Fenwick has agreed to meet you tomorrow representing her mother and the Fenwick system.”
“Until tomorrow” Cameron said looking Rosberg up and down for a moment “we’ll get you and your people new uniforms from the DropShip, Major, regardless of what Fenwick wants I want you looking your best tomorrow.”
***
The night passed quickly with on Fenwick with comfortable quarters put up for Bannister Cameron and a few of his aides. During the night Simon Rosberg and the other crewmen of the Bremen had also been transferred to the facility and been provided with new uniforms. Early in the morning Duke Bannister Cameron was escorted to one of the meeting rooms for the meeting with the people of Fenwick. Heading through the facility he met Simon Rosberg on the way and was taken into the meeting room. Already waiting inside was a young woman with dark hair which was tied up and a navy suit with a white blouse and an older man wearing a slightly modified version of the original Star League Defence Force uniform. “Duke Cameron, I am sorry for your delayed welcome, I am Duchess Emily Fenwick welcome to our world.”
“Thank you, Duchess, it is remarkable what you have created here” Cameron admitted approaching the table in the room sitting down opposite her.
“Though eternal vigilance” the man said “successive leaders of this system have demanded that our security is taken as our greatest concern currently that task falls on my shoulders, Field Marshal Galen Prescott, at your service.” He said introducing himself.
“A pleasure to meet you” Bannister Cameron said bowing his head slightly “we do not wish to threaten your safety we simply want to invite you back into the Star League’s circle.”
“The Star League’s circle” Fenwick repeated quietly “as I understand from our debriefing of the Bremen’s crew that the Protectorate worlds which has replaced what the Hegemony once was is at the command of the Succession Lords.”
“Not quite” Cameron said glancing at Simon Rosberg “the Star League Defence Force does answer to the First Lord who is elected from among the Succession Lords but the Protectorate itself is now considered to be an independent state and is gaining in influence every year.” Cameron said “with the support of the Protectorate we could bring more wealth into this system than you have ever experienced. The Star League Defence Force can bring far greater protection to this system. It is that or in time the Draconis Combine could stumble on you and bring far greater firepower on you than you could resist for long.”
“You try and threaten us? We were not found for centuries until you stumbled across us we were quite happy hidden away from everyone. People do not know about Fenwick and we are happy for this to continue.”
“With respect Duchess” Rosberg said before glancing at Bannister Cameron “the Inner Sphere is a changing place at present there are dozens of active regiments and WarShips. There are DropShips that have the equivalent firepower of a Star League-era Destroyer. And then there are the Clans, descendants of the original Star League Army, they care nothing for borders or previous agreements you have made with them. They see something that they want and they come for it.” He explained trying to show the dangers that Fenwick could possibly face the SLDF had found them anyone could “you have an impressive Battleship and some nuclear weapons but they will go only so far. Allying yourselves with the SLDF will provide additional security in this troubled times.” He said trying to reason with the Fenwick Duchess.
“You are welcome to remain on Fenwick while we deliberate over our decision. You are welcome to move around the capital however your weapons and vehicles must remain out with the city failure to agree to these terms will result in a reaction from our forces which you will not survive. Any requests to visit production or military facilities will have to be cleared by myself.”
“I thank you for the invitation, Duchess; I look forward to getting to know Fenwick much better.” Bannister Cameron said rising from his chair along with Simon Rosberg both nodded their heads once before turning and leaving the meeting room.
Interrogation Room
Nova Cat Hall, City of Andrey
Tukayyid, Clan Territory
13th July 3109
After weeks of isolation and interrogation the doors opened and the large warrior who had claimed Lucian Allard-Liao a bondsman stepped into the room. “What is this?” Lucian demanded despite the long time in the cell his defiance still strong. “I surrendered to this Clan I deserve…” he began before a backhanded slap caught him across the face knocking him to the ground.
“You what?” The warrior asked kneeling down near Lucian “you deserve attention? You deserve recognition?” He asked “you are a freebirth who could not even face us in combat you had to sneak onto this world. You deserve nothing” he said standing up drawing his sidearm.
“I could not be guaranteed fighting this Clan in combat if I joined the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns.” Lucian said looking up straight into the muzzle of the warrior’s sidearm. “I did not wish to serve anyone other than the Clan of my father Grayson Rosse.” He stated “I wished to rise above the petty politics of the Inner Sphere” he spat “and serve a higher purpose.” He said making serving the Clan sound like something to aspire to. “If I must die to show this devotion then I am ready to face this fate.” He said closing his eyes his head remaining in line with the weapon.
“You’re lucky your case has caught the attention of our Khan who has commanded you be released as my bondsman and moved to our other territories.” He said re-holstering the weapon leaning towards Lucian “but understand something your father was not a hero of this Clan and nor will you be.”
“We will see” Lucian said picking himself up “and watch your contractions warrior.” He chided the Nova Cat warrior resulting in an immediate, and expected, backhanded slap that once again knocked Lucian to the ground.
“We will see how far your defiance gets you Bondsman.” The warrior said walking out of the room within the week Lucian Nova Cat had been transferred off Tukayyid en route towards Tamar and from there to the Nova Cat’s Den.
Diplomatic Negotiations
Fenwick, Alya Prefecture
Dieron Military Prefecture, Draconis Combine
21st July 3109
Over a week past on Fenwick before a decision was made about their future with the Fenwick leadership agreeing in principle to join the Star League Protectorate but for now at least refusing SLDF protection and refusing to open the system to outside visitors. Bannister had explained to be part of the Protected Planets Accord they would have to allow others to enter and settle on any world of their choosing but so far Duchess Emily Fenwick had refused instead she invited Bannister Cameron and the crews from the WarShips to remain in the system and see what they were so keen to protect.
For Fenwick itself Bannister Cameron was impressed while the world did not feel overly militarized, in fact you rarely saw an armed soldier on the streets; they had several weapons factories which built everything from small arms to naval autocannons. Duchess Emily Fenwick had explained the Cavalier had required multiple weapons to be manufactured leading to factories being built. While Bannister though that this was a good answer the Cavalier appeared to be fully operation why they were still in operation remained unanswered, Bannister Cameron had also learned that while Fenwick’s standing National Guard was only a combined arm’s Regiment in strength that over the years they had acquired several more vehicles, Mechs and weapons from those who had stumbled on the system. Arriving during the Succession War period the equipment had been in disrepair their operators shell-shocked from the horrors that had befallen the Inner Sphere and most had surrendered quickly netting Fenwick their equipment for little effort.
During a tour of Fenwick’s facilities Emily Fenwick had explained that the people of Fenwick had taken these unit’s equipment apart and rebuilt them from the ground up making improvements as they went or converting them to the needs of the people of Fenwick. One of these had been a pair of Strike Falcon Attack VTOLs which had originated in the Capellan Confederation nearly seven hundred years prior. Emily Fenwick had explained that they had been found in a weapons cache during the First Succession War by a mercenary company who were fleeing the fighting when they stumbled across Fenwick. With no need for an attack aircraft the people of Fenwick had reduced both to their basic chassis before rebuilding them as air ambulances and several rebuilds later the two aircraft still served Fenwick National Hospital.
On another tour Major Simon Rosberg had reported to Bannister Cameron that Fenwick’s military had two pristine Lee-class DropShips which had been acquired from a SLDF unit that had settled in the system. Likely the last two DropShips of their class the two DropShips were among the most capable troop carrying vessels ever devised and were priceless on any Inner Sphere market. Despite these revelations Bannister wondered what other treasures had been hidden away in the Fenwick system as the people in the system were still being secretive the system’s Duchess Gloriana Fenwick had not been seen since his arrival on the planet, the people of Fenwick refused to show them the Section and refused to allow any of the SLDF personnel to explore the rest of the system with the Cavalier keeping the SLS Warlock inside Fenwick’s gravity well limiting what the Battleship could do without causing a conflict.
Border Fighting
District of Oriente, Free Worlds League
25th July 3109
The “northern territories” of the District of Oriente disappears virtually overnight as the systems of Ulan Balor and Yunnah request protection from the Federated Suns following rumours of ethnic cleansing the Capellan Confederation and near constant terrorist attacks. Within hours of the request AFFS ground forces and mercenaries are moved into the region while Oriente troops are given a deadline of 48 hours to remove themselves and their equipment from the system. AFFS commanders pass via HPG to nearby worlds that any use of nuclear weapons against their ground forces will be met with an “absolute and final” response from the Federated Suns.
Elsewhere Quemoy, Elnath and Vertabren fall to the Capellan Confederation. The presence of Star League Defence Force observers and naval forces mean the fighting is confined to conventional warfare with elements of the Sixth Militia and Sixth Orloff Grenadiers facing off against Capellan Confederation forces. In very short campaigns the Capellans bring increasing amounts of firepower against the defending forces on Quemoy and Elnath while on Vetrabren the Capellans face off against elements of the Third Regulan Hussars who were trying to establish their hold on the world. Rapidly the Capellans also gain dominance on the world destroying the Regulan force. With the ground secured the Capellans demand that the SLDF naval forces leave the systems despite communications from the ground based populations requesting assistance against the defenders.
Following their forced retreat Admiral Yves Guidette, the commander of the Fourth WarShip Squadron on board the Sovetskii Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser SLS St Andrews, requests that the First Lord and Commanding-General authorize their forces to defend Star League territory from Capellan aggression. Both remind him that the SLDF mandate, on the FWL/Capellan border, is to stop the use of weapons of mass destruction not defend every system that comes under attack. The final world the “northern” territory chooses to request Star League Protection officially aligning with the Star League Protectorate.
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great update, dragoncat! i really love your stuff and hope to see much much more. one minor nitpick: the black watch... normally its not an omni, right? if its a mistake... why not MAKE it one in your timeline? i personally love the black watch and for me it would be awesome to have a fan designed omni!!!
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great update, dragoncat! i really love your stuff and hope to see much much more. one minor nitpick: the black watch... normally its not an omni, right? if its a mistake... why not MAKE it one in your timeline? i personally love the black watch and for me it would be awesome to have a fan designed omni!!!
Glad you liked it, actually the Black Watch is quite an old one
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=4069.msg91711#msg91711 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=4069.msg91711#msg91711)
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Great updates, lots going on and whats happening on the Combine's border sounds terrible :s I hope they capture the gits responsible for this.
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So the SLDF is not defending worlds of a Star League member state against the Capellan's?
Can't see that going down well in the League.
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So the SLDF is not defending worlds of a Star League member state against the Capellan's?
Can't see that going down well in the League.
Depends on what constructions the League may have put on them being there in the first place.
Rules of Engagement can be a bitch.
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Partially rules of engagement partially the way this Star League is run
It was created to protect against the Clans and Stop wide scale conflict not stop every border fight. Now Victor and the Commanding General are probably pushing to the limits of targeting WMDs and those who want to use them. Beyond that they need council approval and it goes something like
Steiner no defend my Clan borders (multiple)
Kurtis same as above
Davion we don't care but we like a weak FWL
FWL we'd like the help but the Regulans could handle it
Magistracy no it's a fair fight (we like the Capellan)
Taurians see above
Without council approval the SLDF protect their own and against the Clans
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Is Oriente a member of the Star League, or is it just a province of the FWL which is a member state.
If it is just a province would it not be up to the FWL to request help if they want it.
Great write up. O0
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Province of FWL the FWL as a full is the member state of SL
A few months ago I did an update where the FWL discussed helping unfortunately the Districts don't want to fork out £$€¥ for a Federal force controlled by Parliament so they are on their own. The current FWL is more social and trade oriented. As for help Regulus is helping in its own way but it's more like a take over than assistance
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Thanks for the answers.
One more question, do the Marik Protectors exist in this timeline?
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Always happy to answer questions.
As for the Marik Protectors no not at present but maybe in future
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Possible hook, line and sinker alert!
What if Stone is really a Society clone of Kerensky?
Warm feelings now....
TT
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Stones just a man making his way in the world
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any updates on the clan that was attacking the rimworlds or firemandrels
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More from them September 3109 time there's a little arc coming that will tie up a couple of loose ends and introduce new elements that will take us into 3110 and beyond
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Do you mean the Stone Spirits Cawest?
If so, the Spirits were pretty battered from their incursion into Lyran space. Their ground forces should be rebuilt by now, but I dont know about their naval forces. I do know the latest warship list still lists the Stone Spirit warships as damaged though and I do try to follow that unless Dragon Cat tells me differently.
As for the Rim Collection/Mandrill border, the situation on the border evolved from both sides creating fortress systems to keep the other out of their territory. More or less, the border is now stable, with the Collection and Spirits using the other as a live-fire opponent of sorts to keep their forces battle-hardened. Whether this becomes the norm from now on remains to be seen, but both sides do realize the benefits of the current situation.
Collection and Lyrans have a quiet, yet tense border. Both sides keep their forces tightly restrained to keep the peace. Meanwhile, the Stone Spirits and Lyrans keep their border very much active with raids and counter raids.
Finally, Erdvynn Province still remains preoccupied dealing with pirates to turn their attention to the Collection and Lyrans, but contracts with the Collection for one of their second-line clusters to deal with the worst of the pirate threat. Also, Collection supplies Erdvynn with and maintains their HPG system.
Hope that helps put the current border situation into perspective.
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that is it, thank you
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Time to blow open the secret of Fenwick. Not the last story I will tell in this system but perhaps revealing a couple of secrets and explaining their initial secretive nature.
The last part is from James Tanaga continuing to expand the Fire Mandrill story
Bannister Cameron’s Quarters
Fenwick City, Fenwick
Star League Protectorate
3rd August 3109
After nearly a month of getting to know the people of Fenwick Duke Bannister Cameron was feeling accomplished as he packed preparing to leave the system the people of Fenwick had officially agreed to join the Star League Protectorate and they had agreed to the free travel rules of the Protected Worlds. He still hadn’t met with Duchess Gloriana Fenwick but her daughter had said that the Duchess would not stand in the way of Fenwick’s return to the Inner Sphere. There was a knock at the door “please enter!” Bannister called turning towards the doors moments later one of the palace guards opened the door and in entered who could only be Gloriana Fenwick. She was perhaps in her early eighties, perhaps older, and wore a navy and silver gown with a purple sash across it. “Duchess, you honour me” Bannister Cameron said bowing his head slightly in respect.
“Don’t patronize me, Duke Cameron, I have ignored your presence at every step you know this despite my daughter’s insistence I was unwell? I am correct?” She asked Bannister nodded she was unlike her daughter, who had trained as a MechWarrior and routinely undertook trips across the system, Bannister was sure that she had lived a comfortable life here for most of her life and she didn't care about his position in relation to her. “Good then you are not an idiot.” She said walking into the room looking around “I hope you have found your accommodations comfortable during your stay?”
“I have, Duchess, I understand your reluctance to invite outsiders to this world it is quite idyllic. We have no intention of installing new leadership here no forcing you to accept masses of new immigrants.”
“I know this…” she said crossing the room again “I do worry Bannister Cameron this world was founded as a retreat a place where civilization could be forever protected and the weapons that were created out there could not reach.”
“I am aware” Bannister said remaining where he was “we will not volunteer the location of Fenwick that I have already promised your daughter…”
“I am aware” she said repeating him cutting him off “however perhaps you are not fully aware of our reasons for wishing this system not to become too crowded…”
“Am I not?” Bannister already knew Fenwick had secrets, secrets he had been willing to wait to be answered.
“I believe not” she said suddenly stopping her pacing looking at him “I need you to trust me. You must accompany me to the Cavalier and until I show you what we must protect beyond everything. Your WarShip must remain clear, at least initially.”
“And where are we going?” Bannister asked more curious than worried if these people wished to hurt him they would have already done that.
“Not far” Gloriana Fenwick said calmly
“I agree” he said making his decision showing trust in this woman he had just met regardless of the risk he planned to see this through, he immediately through of Andrea and his children but duty came first, a contingency was in place should he never return the Star League would prevail.
***
Duchess Gloriana Fenwick’s ‘not far’ had been ten days onboard the Cavalier. During that time Bannister Cameron had been given complete access of the WarShip and found exploring the huge WarShip an adventure all on its own. The crew were perhaps a little more lax than what he had come to expect from the crews on SLDF vessels but then these crewmen had been locally trained and never faced an enemy who was willing to engage them in combat sight of the SLS Warlock was probably the first ‘enemy’ WarShip they had ever encountered. That wasn’t to say that the crew was anything but polite with him still not the military officers and crew he’d need them to be before he could ever deploy the vessel as an asset of the Star League Defence Force.
Entering the command bridge Bannister saw that Duchess Gloriana already awaited him there. The room was a little unconventional all of the consoles faced into the room’s centre while at the far ‘forward’ end of the room was helm, while down the starboard side of the room was weapons command, communications, internal security and sensors while at what the crew referred to as the ‘aft’ was engineering and damage control. The entire port side of the command deck was taken up by a massive holotank, which was easily larger than any Bannister had seen on a WarShip, which detailed everything about the ship and the space around her. In the Duke’s personal opinion while grand the holotank was a little overpowering. “Duke Cameron, we are about at our location” she said as Bannister came alongside her she indicated for him to hook onto the console suggesting that the ship’s engines would soon stop. He slipped his boots into special holders which would hold him down. Very quickly the engine’s ceased their forward thrust and Bannister felt the lack of gravitational force slowly move over him, he hated zero-g and microgravity environments, but tried to ignore it as he looked over at the Duchess who also seemed to dislike it. “Captain, if you please” she directed the ship’s commander suddenly the holo-tank pulled out from the Cavalier and began to show several items close to them. First was the last planet of the Fenwick system then its nearest moon, which they were now behind according to the holo display in the dead space behind the planet he saw nearly three dozen objects and one larger one probably a space station. As the resolution cleared he realized it wasn’t just a space station but it also appeared to be a shipyard.
“What is this?” Bannister asked looking at what he was seeing.
“The Great Father commanded that Fenwick become a bastion for the Star League the last holdout for a past civilization all alone in the dark.” Gloriana Fenwick explained “you didn’t think we would be that hold out with a couple of nuclear weapons and a single WarShip?” She asked Bannister suddenly looked back at the holo-display and realized that the smaller objects were actually WarShips, more than three dozen of them!
“Great Father?” Bannister asked having a good idea about who she was referring to but wanting to be sure.
“Aleksandr Kerensky, father of the Star League Defence Force, he made what is at Fenwick possible.” She explained nodding towards the ship’s commander and the display forcused on the smaller vessels. “Initially the population believed that Kerensky was withdrawing to an SLDF Depot in the near Periphery so they concentrated on refurbishing as many ships as possible repairing four corvettes, two destroyers and three heavy cruisers in a short period of time.”
“I only count seven ships?” He said not trying to sound ungrateful but not understanding why her count was out.
“Three Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers were sent into the Draconis Combine during what the Inner Sphere refers to as the First Succession War. Nuclear weapons were employed against them and only the Tsesaevich returned heavily damaged after that the people began to strip the remaining weapons from the rest of the ships, drain them of their fuel and make their hulls air tight.”
“Putting them into preservation…” Bannister whispered stunned as the holo display pulled out again “and the shipyard?”
“A plan made by the founder of this system Sir Roger Fenwick created.” Gloriana Fenwick explained “while the work to strip the remaining WarShips kept the population employed and most of the ground equipment is stored away from people who could cause harm it they still needed a focus. There was a single Stefan Amaris-class Battleship among the old hulls stored here, one that Kerensky had found at the back end of the Rim Worlds Republic, it was the largest and most capable hull left in this cache.” She explained signalling to the ship’s commander and the holo-tank focused on a group of a dozen identical vessels. “He tasked his people to repair the ship which was completed by the time his son was born. Seeing what his father accomplished his son William ordered the people of his generation to build another grand vessel for his first child. Over the years it became something of a tradition.”
“A tradition to build Battleships…” she whispered stunned now the reason why the mines and the factories continued to operate made sense to him. “This is a gold mine if it had ever been discovered during the Succession Wars they would have burned this entire system to gain access to it.” He said still surprised that no-one had ever discovered this system and exploited its secrets.
“Which is why we have been so secretive about what is in this system and taken measures to stop anyone who discovers us leaving” she said her voice finding a new menacing edge “those who have refused to surrender have died and those who have surrendered but remained a threat to us have been sectioned.” She explained Bannister nodded he knew from speaking to Major Rosberg that the people of “The Section” were a mixed bag of thrill junkies who wanted new experiences and prisoners he could believe that many had died mining the asteroids. “We have also seeded the entire area with nuclear weapons” Gloriana warned “they are still there to this date.”
“This is when you expect the rest of my people to jump in and try and seize control?” Bannister asked
“The thought had crossed my mind. Your Warlock may be still in Fenwick’s gravity well but we detected what we believed was a Hyper Pulse Generator aboard the vessel.” She explained “the battleship’s sensors are powerful enough to find all the open space in this system and find the places that you could jump into.”
“We have no plans to invade Fenwick.”
“The more you say that the more I believe you.”
“However I do believe we have found the first place that the Star League Defence Force would like to put some resources.” Bannister said looking at the ships and the shipyard. “We have a Newgrange-class Yardship and a Fleet Support Vessel we could deploy to this system and kick start the refit process bringing the first visitors to this system and bringing new work to the system.”
“That could be acceptable”
“How did you find the germanium to construct the K-F cores for those Battleships?”
“Some of the ships we built using salvage taken from some vessels that were too badly damaged to be made safe. For others I will need you to send a message to the Warlock so they don’t panic when they see us jump away from Fenwick.” She explained as she did the Cavalier’s engines activated once more turning the WarShip away from the ship depot.
***
An hour later the ship’s K-F Drive activated sending the Cavalier through a jump into deep space far from any star. “Welcome to Section Omega our most remote mining outpost” Duchess Gloriana Fenwick explained as the ship emerged back into real space near a converted JumpShip which had been turned into a space station which hung over what appeared to be a shattered planet. We believe this planet once belonged to the Fenwick system many millennia ago how it broke the way it did we do not know. We actually discovered it by accident one of our JumpShips miscalculated a jump towards another system which it believed was twenty-nine light years away in fact it was two hundred-and-ninety light years away.” She explained how such a mistake was made beyond Bannister “they were stranded in deep space for nearly eighteen days as their fusion engine charged the K-F core manually during that time they discovered Omega. Its core is made of pure germanium worth billions on the open market and priceless to Fenwick.”
“How do you get people to work out here?”
“Volunteers all of them, even the criminals who are sent here,” Gloriana said “a prisoner can work off ten years of his sentence at this facility in six months and they get to pilot some of the smartest IndustrialMechs ever created.” She boasted the lack of atmosphere meaning the prisoners out here probably piloted converted BattleMechs to do their work relying on the heat from its fusion engine to keep operating.
“Truly all of this is impressive.” Bannister Cameron said looking at the operation displayed on the holographic display. “I cannot believe that it has been hidden away for so long. Duchess I will be happy to accept you all into the Star League Protectorate, I am beyond happy” he said “I have one snag”
“A snag?”
“Yes, we cannot call the Battleships the Stefan Amaris-class. Across the Inner Sphere and beyond his name is reviled.”
“I understand” Gloriana Fenwick agreed “locally we call them the Aleksandr Kerensky-class.”
“Which is fine for Fenwick but beyond that name would likely also create conflict” Bannister explained thinking the Clans would hate that as much as Stefan Amaris while the Inner Sphere would question even more where they had come from. “How about the Fenwick-class?”
“While that may appeal to some of the younger generation those who have past would roll in their graves at the prospect and once Fenwick’s place became known I am sure that the Draconis Combine would wish a piece of what has been under their noses for so long.”
“Then how about we use the Otey-class? It means father in Russian Kerensky’s native tongue and given that it was the father of your family line who set you on this path.” Bannister Cameron suggested after a moment knowing that the Stefan Amaris-class could not remain in SLDF service.
“I accept” she said for the first time since Bannister had met her she smiled he hoped the first time of many now that Fenwick was part of the Star League’s Protected Planets.
Food Riots
Vega, Vega Prefecture
District of Dieron, Draconis Combine
9th August 3109
With the planetary HPG destroyed few realize how bad the situation on Vega truly is as food riots break out across the globe. In the city of Roccer an entire battalion of the Third Dieron Regulars is mobbed as rumours the DCMS have food stashed in their base spreads like wildfire. Unable to stop the hoards of angry, scared civilians the Battalion is massacred by the mob. Even as Morgan Christifori’s SLDF unit scrambled to try and maintain the peace the Third Dieron’s military commander Hojo Ujimasa commands his troops to open fire if further mobs form resulting in hundreds of civilian casualties.
With Vega’s primary spaceport destroyed aid shipments were landing at alternate facilities at Nasew were being stretched to their limit. Unfortunately when systems and people are pushed to and beyond their capacity accidents happen. The Fury-class DropShip Truant carrying medical personnel attempted a landing as the Buccaneer-class DropShip Maine attempted to take off. With neither vessel able to alternate their course a collision was inevitable causing the destruction of both vessels and closing the landing area for several hours as repair crews attempted to clear the wreckage and repair the damage.
At one of Vega’s jump points two Tramp-class DropShips arrive and deposit several DropShips worth of supplies for the people of the system. Several days later the Bear DropShips land on the planet’s surface and offload their supplies before leaving the ground before the remaining Dieron Regular troops can oppose the landing zones. The supplies left are made up of food, water and medical supplies enough to help several thousand civilians for a few days lessening the load being put on Vega’s spaceport.
Recovery Ward, Medical Treatment Facility Four
New Barcella, Nova Cat’s Den
Periphery
14th August 3109
Canin Rosse stirred as he laid on the bed the pain coming from his left side and more specifically his left arm slowly bringing him to consciousness. Looking around the room the Khan knew he was in a medical facility meaning the battle had not gone well. Closing his eyes he tried to remember the last moments of the battle with saKhan Katrine Devalis he remembered the weapon impacts which tore the left leg assembly from the saKhan’s Demios and her final particle cannon shots slamming into his Dragon Cat’s torso burning into the gyroscope and then his OmniMech falling.
“Do not go back to sleep my Khan.” A female voice said off to his right bringing him around once more. He looked over and saw a battered saKhan Katrine Devalis sitting on the chair.
“I congratulate you on your victory, Khan Katrine” he said weakly
“Neg, it has been decreed that it was a draw.” She answered “My OmniMech was downed at the same time when you severed my left leg” she explained remaining at the side of his bed. She did not sound one bit angry about the battle's result.
“But I was left unconscious” he said looking down at his own left hand realizing that the lower part of his arm was gone and budded over with thick bandages “and obviously I was badly injured” he said he felt further pain down his left side but everything else was intact. “You were victorious you are now, Khan.”
“Neg, I refuse the position, our battle was over a disagreement it was not over the leadership of our Clan, you maintain the support of the council and of me you are the right man to lead our Clan.”
“I am seventy-one years old perhaps it is time for my rule to end…” He said despite his current injuries Canin Rosse’s body was as healthy as a man twenty or thirty years younger.
“Neg, we disagree once more Khan Rosse” she said interrupting him “you have the drive and vision to see where our Clan should be in the universe more so than anyone else.”
“Perhaps it is time for that vision to change.” He said glancing away from her he had been in command for a long time, perhaps too long, many Nova Cats jumped at the challenge to strike at the Draconis Combine perhaps his peaceful attitude towards the Federated Suns was slowly strangling his Clan. The problem was he didn't know if he was the man who could change that.
“That is your choice my Khan but you are still the leader of the Nova Cats and me.”
“A leadership you have weakened.”
“Aff, weakened but not broken” she reminded him “you are still Khan of our Clan" she repeated again as if she intended on convincing him of the fact herself. "Another left hand and lower arm are already being grown” she said stepping forwards leaning forward over him “you can still be Khan if you want to be. It is your decision” she said finally “and it is mine to continue to command our operations against the Combine and the Ravens with your public support and without interference.” She said taking what she wanted from the victory.
“If you became Khan then you will not need support” he reminded her challenging her once more “you have always wanted to be Khan why now when you have this golden opportunity you are not taking it?”
“My vision” she said quietly “it continues to inform my decisions daily and for now I know that my future is not Khan of the Nova Cat Clan.”
“What is your future?” Canin asked wondering is Katrine knew herself
“That has not been decided” she half joked turning to leave “I wish you well my Khan and hope you decided to continue to serve our Clan.”
“And if I make choices as Khan that threatens what you believe is in your best interests?”
“I came close this time to beating you Canin Rosse, next time I will make sure that you do not recover from your wounds.” She promised him finally before leaving him on the bed to contemplate his future.
In the coming weeks and months Canin underwent several operations to repair the damage done to his left arm and to heal other wounds. Once he had recovered sufficiently the Khan was challenged three times by ristars in the Clan’s Touman who wished to lead the Nova Cats and saw a weakened vulnerable Khan. Each time Canin faced his challenges in single combat and in each case he was victorious showing that although Katrine Devalis had come close to beating him he still had fight.
While many had been swayed by Katrine’s battle against him as it had been classed as a draw few could use it to show he was unfit for command. By the end of the year Canin Rosse had successfully defeated an additional two challenges to his rule and cemented his continued control over the Nova Cat Clan. These distractions keep Canin Rosse focused on maintaining control over the Nova Cat Clan for the remains of 3109 while Katrine Devalis continues her own path.
Border Conflict
Draconis March, Federated Suns
Military District of Benjamin, Draconis Combine
21st August 3109
On Robinson Duke Duncan Sandoval free from his obligations to lead the Draconis March is seen in downtown Robinson City with Major Ariana Steiner, of the McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry, despite the age gap the two appear completely comfortable in each other’s company. Media agencies in the Federated Suns question whether the Duke should be stepping up to his heritage instead of trying to bed a mercenary.
While Sandoval enjoys Steiner’s company the Draconis Combine raid Sadalbari, Fellenin II, David and Raman while the Federated Suns itself raids New Mendham, Barlow’s Folly, Ludwig and Junction. The Seventh New Avalon Guards RCT and the Fifth Robinson Rangers LCT successfully capture Barlow’s Folly and New Menham destroying two Benjamin Regular units while the DCMS capture Sadalbari, David and Raman only failing to capture Fellenin II as the Second New Ivaarsen Chausers LCT.
Salvatore Incorporated (Rim Motors), Space-station Michael
Layover, Tikonov Operating Area
Crucis March, Federated Suns
28th August 3109
Countess Vicki Famito of Layover floated in microgravity as she silently looked out the window with pride, as both Fulcrum prototypes begin to dock to the Michael the huge space-station she was currently aboard hovering above Layover as the world spun below. The Fulcrums were beasts, weighing sixty thousand tons, with speed matching a destroyer, and their weapons systems and onboard aerospace assets allowing them to compete with smaller warships. Something both her nation and the Rim Collection had demanded.
And the staff here delivered. While she knew the Federated Suns Navy would still need to approve the design for their use, she smiled, for the Rim Collection Touman representatives had already approved the design for the Collection’s own use and they were willing to stomp up the money to pay for the craft. They only requested a minor design change to allow for the inclusion of one of their mobile HPGs.
She smiled as she thought about the fortune that had finally shone on them. Layover had once been a major industrial concern for the Federated Suns in the First Star League, providing for much of the Federated Suns’ heavy naval manufacturing, until its fall and the First Succession War which had seen the world invaded by the Draconis Combine and pillaged by their troops. Afterwards, however, the world and her family’s company, along with its fortune, had met near-nonstop misfortune time after time after time.
Four and a half years ago, Vicki had been forced to declare Salvatore Incorporated, the economic life blood of Layover, bankrupt. She was in despair yet she had little choice the company, her house and family had little to offer and could not pay debts owed from loan after loan over the last few years.
What she expected happened. The Ministry of Commerce and Trade sent feelers out to other companies as they begun the process to disassemble the company and sell its assets to the highest bidder. What she wasn’t expecting, though, was Rim Motors’ public call for the return of Layover’s Golden Age and in doing so, riled up not just the population of Layover, but also of the Federated Suns into supporting their proposal. Rim Motors who originated in the far off Rim Collection had attempted to purchase companies across the Federated Suns as the small periphery nation attempted to broaden its base of suppliers and extend its reach far beyond its borders.
And now, she was glad for their intervention. Though Salvatore Incorporated was no more, Layover was now bustling with excitement, as the Rimmers and their Monkeys continued their methodical approach to return Layover to its Golden Age. She’d found it strange when she first found out that members of the Rim Motors team were actually Clansmen members of Clan Fire Mandrill that resided inside the Rim Collection. Technically on visitor passes to enter the Federated Suns they shouldn’t be working for any corporation but because the Mandrill’s did not treat money the same way as the people of the Inner Sphere so there was that tiny loophole that Rim Motors made the most out of.
On Layover the transformation had been slow but was already making an impact. In the last year three separate companies had been brought online bringing manufacturing of weapons, vehicles and DropShips back to Layover transforming the world’s economy and bringing new blood to the world. The Federated Suns had already placed certain restrictions on what could and could not be sent out of the nation and in what quantity, and had deployed an entire New Avalon Guards RCT to the world to enforce this, but even with these restrictions and over watch from the AFFS the Rim Collection was coming out well ahead of what they could produce in their own nation. One of the Rim Motors “Rimmers” had explained to her that a world like Layover had a population three times that of some Rim Collection worlds they had access to trade routes with dozens of systems and because much of the weapons went to the AFFS they had the support of the Federated Suns Government which added together far outstripped what could be produced at home.
The news on Layover conveyed that on a daily basis reminding people that while Salvatore Industries was technically a name of the past and while some of their weapons were being shipped out with the Federated Suns their world was once more contributing to the gross product of their nation instead of living on handouts from other worlds. During this little enterprise the Collection had unveiled its first two home-built Odyssey-class JumpShips to the Inner Sphere sending them across the Inner Sphere to show how far they had come and how far their ambitions extended. As part of the deal to transport weapons out of the Federated Suns Countess Vicki Famito knew that the Rim Collection, and Clan Fire Mandrill, had agreed to sell one of the Odyssey’s to the Federated Suns Military but it seemed like a small price to pay especially considering the new levels of defence the Fulcrums would bring to the nation. Famito suspected that the Rim Collection must also be making similar agreements with the Star League Defence Force and Lyran Commonwealth so they could travel through their space but she knew that such agreements could only be good for the system of Layover. Finally its name was being spoken on a dozen different worlds not because they needed help but because finally the system was beginning to return to its routes.
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good to see the odyssey getting a new life with the IS. if they can put one or two up for sale a year. that would be stack of cash
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Very interesting updates.
The SLDF gains a new shipyard - which they really did need - but it's location is such that if it doesn't remain a secret it may be very vulnerable. Oh yeah, and at least a dozen new battleships (though the ability to man them might be a problem for a year or two).
The Fire Mandrill/Rim Collection shipyards come online. No warships yet, but that is likely just a matter of time at this point.
The Combine continues it's issues in the Dieron District and along its borders, though a large push towards Robinson might be in the offing. (guestimate based on force locations at the start of the year - there are more than 15 DC regiments within two jumps of Gandy's Luck)
Definitely worth the wait, imo. O0
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The SLDF navy get a massive injection of battleships, now for the crews and then interesting times.
Good to see the Rim Collection doing so much better. O0
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Agony of waiting for a showdown with Rim Collection and SLDF...
}:)
TT
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Great update :) How many Stefan Amaris ships are there either under construction or laid up?
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Honestly, I would have called em Chieftain-class.
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I like the idea of Chieftain being the Class name. However, it's a name the Clans would certainly know. I prefer it to be known as the Chieftain since the SLDF completed the two (canon) ships that were in their service, thus they took ownership of the class and likely fixed issues with the design the original RWR shipyards likely weren't able to do (fluff stuff).
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Honestly, I would have called em Chieftain-class.
Chieftain has to be the name of a tank.
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Chieftain has to be the name of a tank.
Agreed, can't be anything else really.
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cawest - yeah the Odysseys will be more useful in trade
Vition - yeah they needed a shipyard but I didn't want a large facility. A single Battleship slip was plenty plus the cached ships (originally JA Baker's idea though I played about with it a bit). The Combine is in a fun place
truetanker - James Tanaga will hate me for saying this but if it ever came to an SLDF vs Rim Collection the Rim Collection would be in trouble and I'm pretty sure the Lyrans would happily help.
marauder - 13 (sort of), 11 in storage with no ammo, no fuel, no crew, 1 active and one under construction
VhenRa - I considered Chieftain the same with Vengeance but in the moment Bannister Cameron wouldn't have those on his mind and they would mean little to Fenwick. I wanted something that would appeal to the people of Fenwick and play on honouring Aleksandr Kerensky. I also thought it was pretty ironic that a ship that's going to be the most numerous of the reborn SLDF was originally named after the man who brought it's fall.
JA Baker - yeah could be a tank
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JA Baker - yeah could be a tank
No, it's a tank or nothing:
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/62/Chieftain_Bovington_2006.jpg/170px-Chieftain_Bovington_2006.jpg)
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cawest - yeah the Odysseys will be more useful in trade
Vition - yeah they needed a shipyard but I didn't want a large facility. A single Battleship slip was plenty plus the cached ships (originally JA Baker's idea though I
truetanker - James Tanaga will hate me for saying this but if it ever came to an SLDF vs Rim Collection the Rim Collection would be in trouble and I'm pretty sure the Lyrans would happily help.
marauder - 13 (sort of), 11 in storage with no ammo, no fuel, no crew, 1 active and one under construction
VhenRa - I considered Chieftain the same with Vengeance but in the moment Bannister Cameron wouldn't have those on his mind and they would mean little to Fenwick. I wanted something that would appeal to the people of Fenwick and play on honouring Aleksandr Kerensky. I also thought it was pretty ironic that a ship that's going to be the most numerous of the reborn SLDF was originally named after the man who brought it's fall.
JA Baker - yeah could be a tankplayed about with it a bit). The Combine is in a fun place
you could have a whole line of those ships you could sell or trade. one without LF for those on a budget, or with LF for those large companies that need to ship cargos fast. and for those who have to have all the new toys. LFmk2's are the must have for those high end and discerning buyers this year, or for those very high threat area loss a drop collar and make it a CV.
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Shrugs*
The Collection would definitely have a fight on their hands in that scenario. They'll give a good fight, but if the fight draws out, they're dead and they know it. :'(
Most likely, the Collection either ends the conflict very quickly and on their own terms (their modus operandi) or they resort to a peace treaty to buy time and restrengthen themselves while figuring out a way to combat the SLDF in the future using what they have available to them.
Fortunately for the Mandrills and the Collection themselves, they prefer to keep within their own territory for the most part and when not, rarely instigates the conflict. The SLDF also takes into account is the Mandrills are the only major Clan to subordinate itself within their own territory and that is something the SLDF does not want to change.
Interesting ideas for the Odyssey, Cawest. Will have to look into them in the future. Just FYI, the Mandrills divided the slips they took at Schuyler, keeping one at All Dawn, and the other at Viborg, with the latter already undergoing expansion. They currently produce Odysseys and have the ability to produce Scouts and Hunters.
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omg... a freakin DOZEN warships for the sldf??? is it only me who has the feeling you are putting the ingredients for a truely massive clash in places? like... lets say 5-10 years further down the road??
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omg... a freakin DOZEN warships for the sldf??? is it only me who has the feeling you are putting the ingredients for a truely massive clash in places? like... lets say 5-10 years further down the road??
Pffft. He might do it as soon as he reads that. He is entertainingly unpredictable he is!
Paul
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So two things to note about the new battleships.
First, combined the 12 warships which need to be manned (this includes the one in progress) require more than 7,000 trained personnel. To put things in perspective, their current warship personnel pool is between 9 and 10,000. This means a massive recruiting effort and/or a drastic decrease in the quality of those entering warship personnel pools. And for properly trained personnel, it'll take 3 years, 2 in a fast-track course, but quality will suffer.
Second, they are all "light" battleships - if they are based on the canon warship, then they are a smidge over 1 Mt. While they have massive plates of armor, their firepower is less than some battlecruisers (though still more than some other battleships). Really what this does is to increase the size of the SLDF so they can actually do what their purpose for existing actually is... in about 5 years.
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hah ninjaed by Vition2 :p
Blimey, 13 ships. The Amaris class is a big beast, she's longer than a McKenna but far less well armed and is basically a NAC beatstick, but a formidable one. Manning them might be an issue as you've got to find another 9,288 trained personnel to crew them which might take some time. And you can bet that the SLDF's neighbours will be sweating nervously when they see 13 new WarShips of battleship scale suddenly appear.
And the Clans will recognise the lines and will probably be pissed off to say the least. To the point that the only way you could make them more pissed off is if the class was called the "Amaris was Right" or "Aleksandr Kerensky was a poo poo head" class. These 13 ships could well start off a building frenzy and arms race, and we all know what the last Dreadnought arms race helped lead to in Terran history...
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I was just thinking that the SLDF could upgrade them before crewing them.
They basically have a blank canvas and having a dozen upgraded pocket battleships would really benefit them.
JAB can start on the upgrades while the SLDF recruits the crews. ::) 8) O0
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I hate to point things out to you guys but when you're talking about personnel and resources
“The Great Father commanded that Fenwick become a bastion for the Star League the last holdout for a past civilization all alone in the dark.” Gloriana Fenwick explained “you didn’t think we would be that hold out with a couple of nuclear weapons and a single WarShip?” She asked Bannister suddenly looked back at the holo-display and realized that the smaller objects were actually WarShips, more than three dozen of them!
The number of Otey's make up about a third of the number of ships they just found...
I'm not getting much writing done this week I'm sorry to say so I'll answer your points now
GermanSumo - I could tell you I know how they are all going to die but I'd be lying
Blackhorse 6 - glad you noticed
Vition2 - at present they are all the Oteys are standard Stefan Amaris minus the LF Batteries
marauder - yup they need lots of personnel, also ammunition and fuel. I'll be going into this more in coming updates
snakespinner - upgrades? Really :))
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I was just thinking that the SLDF could upgrade them before crewing them.
They basically have a blank canvas and having a dozen upgraded pocket battleships would really benefit them.
JAB can start on the upgrades while the SLDF recruits the crews. ::) 8) O0
Really the Stefan Amaris-class are quite efficient warships, especially for their time period, the only upgrade I can see them utilizing much would be to replace the small lasers with AMS of some sort. Munchkinning things out while keeping the general feel of the class could include increasing the triple bays to quads, and upping the sizes of some of the NACs (though I'd want to be careful here, to not increase damage in lieu of decreased range in most areas). One of the bigger problems is they are already passing their basic fire control limits in many of their arcs, and depending on how integrated that system is to the ship, the upgrade could be more of a complete overhaul instead.
I hate to point things out to you guys but when you're talking about personnel and resources
marauder - yup they need lots of personnel, also ammunition and fuel. I'll be going into this more in coming updates
I consider ammunition and fuel to be pretty easy fixes, there are probably fairly large reserves of both around the SLDF Protectorate. As for personnel, if those 3 dozen ships are manned, I would be VERY wary about incorporating them into the current SLDF, as that amounts to a standing force larger than the SLDF's warship navy itself. At minimum, the doctrinal and cultural differences between the two would cause some level of friction.
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None of them have active crews
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None of them have active crews
Oh, so they only need to triple their current warship personnel pools. Perhaps surprisingly, that seems more reasonable to me. :D
I suspect there's an academy on Fenwick, though they might still be leary about outsiders coming to their world. So that probably means reopening old academies, there was one on Keid - though that may have been annihilated in the Succession Wars. Contracting with Subtlety PTCMA might be a good short term solution too.
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hhmmm i didnt imply you were knowing how to kill each and everyone off like george rr ;) :D just seems to me youre brewing something larger in this case down the road
well... crewing these loveboats will take sometime, yeah... but its definetly doable.
more problematic is this: how to avoid letting the clans know about fenswick. if i know the clans well enoguh, they gonna come screaming down that system all at once to eradicate it in the most fashionable way... i could even see them NOT conducting any batchalls for the right to do it. this is pure heresy to them. THEY are the ones the father spoke to. and the fenswick system building/maintaing amaris class boats... woah... :D would be fun watching though. from some distance... in a secure shelter... a VERY VERY secure shelter. and the sldf... well, they allied with the fenswick guys... wouldnt be more favourable to the clans, i guess
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Pffft. He might do it as soon as he reads that. He is entertainingly unpredictable he is!
Paul
Now now, Paul. Dragoncat would never just start a war, 5 years away the SLDF will have a big surprise thanks to the Mouse who Roared!!! Speaking of the Mouse who Roared, how many trained Naval Personal do they have available?
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Vition2 - the only active WarShip training schools in SLDF are on Terra and New Olympica, though there is an aerospace fighter school on Thorin. Though they could technically recruit from any of the Inner Sphere schools.
GermanSumo - since the SLDF itself used two Stefan Amaris in combat during the Liberation campaign I reckon the Clans will be pretty pragmatic about it. As the Clans often say it's the warrior not the tech that makes the war... then again I can't remember ever seeing a Wolverine BattleMech in a Clan formation...
DOC_Agren - not much personnel but more than one ship. You'll learn more about Fenwick and what is there in an update or twos time - I won't be leaving the system alone for a while.
Now however an update
Deep Raids
Ashio Prefecture, Dieron Military District
Draconis Combine
1st September 3109
“Hit them hard! Push forwards, PUSH them back into the river!” Leftenant-Colonel Canin McKinnon shouted down the comms from his Prefect BattleMech “destroy them completely!” He ordered targeting an enemy BattleMech with his Heavy Particle Cannon as two Zibler Fast Strike Tanks flew past engaging more DCMS units alongside McKinnon’s BattleMech a Shadow Hawk LAM converted to BattleMech mode and landed onto the ground with a heavy “thump” adding its weapons to the mix as a squad of Hauberk Battle Armour troopers unleashed their weapons targeting another Combine BattleMech.
“Bossman, times up!” Major Luciano McDonald reported from the McKinnon’s Raiders command tank. Canin McKinnon had been against the expansion of the Fox’s Teeth from their combined arms Battalion to their current combined-arms Regiment but he had to admit the extra resources they had was quite useful.
“Negative, we can break them completely, have Silver Lance pass to Addicks we can liberate this world!”
“This comes from Silver Lance Bossman, times up, Captain Dryuan wishes to remind you of our orders and not to extend yourself.” McDonald reminded him “she said that you can’t take a planet with a regiment and we have a job to do.” Inside the cockpit Canin McKinnon cursed loudly banging the side of the BattleMech.
“All units break as per the plan, we’ve won here today people and the DCMS now it but it’s not the plan.” He said commanding the break-up of the attack. Their mission now was simple extract as much of their command as possible and move onto the next target. As per commands from First Prince Burton Davion the newly formed McKinnon’s Raiders Regiment and the FSS Silver Lance, a Robinson II-class Transport, were to go behind enemy lines and raid planets of opportunity. If they encountered significant resistance they were to jump immediately to the next system and Towne was to be the first of many targets hit as the AFFS attempted to break down the latest Draconis Combine offensive.
Evacuating Towne the McKinnon’s Raiders four DropShips joined the FSS Silver Lance which held position near the system and then the WarShip and the DropShips escaped via a pirate point jumping to Murchison. There they repeated the same tactics landing far from a populated area attacking the DCMS forces for a short period of time before retreating leaving the system’s defenders hurt and shocked unsure if another attack was due. Over the course of the rest of September the small raiding force successfully raided Halstead Station, Prefecture capital Ashio and Shimonita before joining AFFS assault forces to capture the worlds of Junction and Ludwig.
These successes pale however as the DCMS open a second front invading Gandy’s Luck shattering the Third Ceti Hussars RCT on that world reducing it to a third strength as Gandy’s Luck and New Aberdeen fall to the Draconis Combine.
JumpShip Heart of Kerensky (Odyessy-class JumpShip)
Deep Space, Deep Periphery
4th September 3109
Star Colonel Alex Lassenum stood nervously on the JumpShip Heart of Kerensky as he watched the Overlord C-class DropShip approach the JumpShip. Nearly three hours before the Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser Rocinate had arrived in the system to Alex’s knowledge the vessel had not left the Colleen system since the Blood Spirits had secretly salvaged it from the York system nearly twenty years before. Officially the Blood Spirit flagship the vessel was seen by many as little more than a system monitor of the Colleen system protecting it from a threat that had never emerged officially it was Khan Katja Keller’s official transport but she had, to his knowledge, not been on board since it was salvaged.
When the DropShip boarded Star Captain Wesley Sukhanov, the Heart of Kerensky’s commander, had attended the airlock and met their visitor escorting them through the vessel. Sukhanov was an old man approaching his seventies and would have been retired in Clan military that was not desperate for capable warriors, which thus far he had proven himself to be, entered the gravity deck meeting room and behind him was Khan Katja Keller. “My Khan what are you doing so far from the homeworld?” Alex Lassenum asked stunned at seeing the old warrior so far from Colleen if the Society were aware of her presence here they would strike without a moment’s delay.
“If I am not able to leave our homeworld without something falling to pieces then there is something very wrong.” She replied “and I have a time sensitive mission for you which I trust only to you Star Colonel.”
“Of course, we have been preparing for further operations on Ironhold, there is intelligence that there are nearly a Cluster’s worth of Jade Falcon warriors imprisoned on the world after being captured by the Society from a far flung research outpost.” Alex said he wasn’t entirely convinced by the intelligence but it was an opportunity to hurt the Society and possibly gain some more allies.
“I am aware” Khan Keller said “however the Falcons, if they are there, will have to wait. This mission is more important.”
“I understand and am ready to serve” he said his immediate readiness to serve the Clan reaffirming Katja Keller’s faith in him to lead the Watch.
“Tell me what do you know of the Nueva Castile?” She asked crossing the room slowly.
“It is, or was, a small periphery nation which the Clans have traditionally paid little to no attention to instead concentrating on the invasion of the Inner Sphere. We have traded for them in the past trading equipment and food for supplies we need to continue efforts against the Society.”
“Correct” Keller confirmed “but what you may, or may not, be aware of is that a very small number of Goliath Scorpion Warriors, Scientists and Sub-castes landed on one of the nation’s worlds and has become integrated into the nation.”
“I had heard rumours, but in those same rumours I heard that the Scorpions split upon reaching Castilian space with elements making it as far as Nova Cat territory in the Inner Sphere where they were destroyed or captured.”
“Aff, a fragmentation did occur so badly that the Scorpions were not able to capture the Hanseatic League instead they have been reduced to holding several enclaves on one of the League’s planets.”
“Another failed Clan” Alex Lassenum commented seeing the scowl of his Khan “I am sorry Khan Keller, I know you value each of the Clans and the reasons behind their creation but I must look at it practically the Scorpions are a dead Clan.”
“I know” she said glancing downwards “but there is an opportunity with these Scorpions.” She said finally “an opportunity to bring them back into the fold.” She explained “they have resources and expertise that we require for our Clan’s continued survival and they are Clansmen. I want you to go to them and to bid for their resources Star Colonel and bring them back to Haven.”
“You think I will need my whole cluster for such a meeting? We could split elements off to accomplish both tasks Quiaff?” He asked it had been done plenty of times before in the current state their Clan was in deploying an entire unit to one problem wasn’t always possible.
“Neg, you will take your entire unit. We believe there are other elements interested in securing the loyalty of the Goliath Scorpion survivors and their resources.” She said her use of the word ‘loyalty’ had surprised him a Clansmen should be loyal to their Clan and nothing more but he remained silent.
“I understand my Khan” Alex Lassenum said from his facial expression Katja believed he had something else to say.
“Speak your mind Alex”
“My Khan, why are you and the Rocinate here?” He asked the presence of both was too out of the ordinary for such a mission briefing.
“I have my own mission to attend to” the Khan admitted immediately seeing his concern “do not worry I have no plans of passing, not yet anyway” she said attempting to reassure him “the Osis pride has been spotted.”
“Dezgra” Alex Lassenum spat “Khan Keller, forget the dishonoured Scorpions, the traitors should face everything we can throw at them!” He snapped the Osis Pride was a Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser crewed by former members of Clan Smoke Jaguar who had fled the Homeworlds when the Inner Sphere destroyed their Clan. They had returned with the Society leading several attacks against the Clan holdings and now they held positions of power throughout the Society’s armed forces with the WarShip a symbol of their power.
“And we will when the time is right. I wish to see it before then and make its crew aware that my Clan is coming for them.” She explained “this is my mission, your mission is ahead of you, now go and prepare your men and your equipment I wish to speak to Star Captain Sukhanov, one old warrior to another.” The Khan explained sharing a look with Lassenum and then Sukhanov the younger Star Colonel looked between them before leaving the room.
“How are you Wes?” The Khan asked in a far less formal tone when they were alone.
“I’m old” he answered dropping the formality along with her.
“Aff, we both are” she said inclining her head towards the door Alex Lassenum had left through “what do you think him?”
“A rising star for the future but not now” he advised cautioning him on any rash action.
“The future is now, Wes, the future of our Clan rests with men who are ready to make the tough choices.”
“He still misses her” Wesley Sukhanov said referring to MechWarrior Laurel “we spoke briefly about her a few weeks ago after the Raid on Irece.”
“As bad as the reports suggest?” She asked changing the topic slightly
“Aff, the chemical and biological weapon use did a lot of damage. The civilian population there live day to day not knowing if the winds will bring fresh air or death and the Society just watch.”
“I heard they have released a newly engineered nova cat Quiaff?”
“Aff, they name it the null cat it is able to completely disappear from sight with some sort of camouflage. The Society engineered it to resist all of the chemicals on the world and to hunt the human population as well as anything else on the world.”
“Bastards” she commented
“Aye, but they are also idiots” Sukhanov pointed out “from what we could gather the null cat’s days are numbered the native animals are fighting back against them and are winning. The chemicals we spread in Irece’s atmosphere might just even the playing field over time if the Society don’t realize what we’ve done.”
“They can join each other in their grave” she commented “did you receive my message?”
“Aff, my Khan” he said suddenly returning to formality “I’ve buried it deep in the ship’s computer banks. The only way anyone will ever locate it is if they know what to look for.”
“And it is still locked?”
“Affirmative as per your commands”
“Very good, Star Captain, I hope you do not need to deliver the news but if you do it has been an honour serving with you old friend.” She said leaving the gravity deck within the hour she had returned to her DropShip heading back towards the Rocinate while the Heart of Kerensky began its three week journey to the Nueva Castile.
Command Deck, Subtlety (McKenna-class Battleship)
Galatea System, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
15th September 3109
For the first time in months the Subtlety was moving under her own power. The DropShip repair crews of The Repair Crew had repaired all of the McKenna’s damaged hull sections allowing the crew to use the whole ship for the first time they had also done extensive work on WarShip’s armament, engines and internal systems. Now the Subtley’s entire main particle cannon armament was active while the large assault Naval Autocannons that had supported the particle weapons had been replaced with smaller cannons in double and quad configurations. The switch had been made to allow training on advanced targeting techniques which were available with an increased number of weapons. For defence the Subtley’s hull was dotted with an array of laser based and conventional anti-missile systems which would all for training in the different use of point defence while screen launchers had also been added while the ship’s magazines for the AR10 Capital Missile Launchers had been expanded to allow the ship to use the new Rayfin Capital Missile, the heat dispensations systems had been expanded to allow for use of all the new systems while the Battleship’s fuel storage had also been expanded allowing for training of refuelling operations. These changes along with a massive expansion of the training rooms inside the Battleship had given the WarShip a far bulkier feel than the standard McKenna so much so that already DropShips could tell the Subtley was different from regular vessels of the class.
It had cost the training academy almost all their available funds but overall they had come out with a more capable asset for their training school. Sitting in the command centre of the Battleship Captain William Leroy-Dietrich watched his crew and the cadets work the systems of the Battleship as they practiced manoeuvres around the Galatea Station. “Bring the nose down a little, continue acceleration” Lieutenant Gwen Parker instructed the trainees bringing the Subtlety below The Repair Group’s Ratchet Behemoth-class DropShip which was repairing a mercenary DropShip from the Daniel’s Avengers silently the 1.9 million ton WarShip slid below the repair operation giving the workers there a marvellous show as the 1.4 kilometre long vessel slid past.
Without warning the Subtlety’s command centre went from complete control to noise and chaos as the sensors recorded a huge explosion ripped across the hull of the Galatea Station. “MASSIVE HULL BREACH ON GALATEA!!” Someone screamed as the hull was blown open compromising several of the gravity decks and at least one cargo bay. As parts of the hull and cargo drifted away from the station the Subtlety’s sensors recorded organic matter mixed in with wreckage.
“Combat stations, I want to know where that explosion came from, contact the shuttle bays I want rescue ships out there now, external communications get me Captain Erika McLainey onboard the Driver we’re going to need them to seal those breaches then get me the station’s command deck.” Captain William Leroy-Dietrich called out above the noise of the Subtlety’s command deck around the bridge several of the cadets froze in place not expecting a real emergency. “Commander Park clear the bridge now!” He snapped calling on Commander America Park to remove the cadets and for the trainers to resume their normal duties. “Now get to work those people are going to need our help.” He said looking at the screens and holo-tank image at the small expanding mess alongside the space station.
Over the days and coming weeks it was discovered that an explosive device had gotten through Galatea Station’s security and been activated inside one of the cargo bays. The resulting explosion from the device had breached the main hull and ripped through two of the gravity decks compromising multiple sections of the hull and the station’s defence grid. In total ninety-four persons inside the space station had been killed, including two members of the recently arrived Daniel’s Avengers who had been enjoying some shore-leave, and over three hundred others had been injured.
Trial of Position
Tukayyid, Clan Space
22nd September 3109
In a reprisal for Trials against Clan Jade Falcon forces Loremaster of the Clans Thomas Ward is challenged for and killed in a Trial of Grievance Brennley Roshak a Star Colonel from the Falcon’s Eighth Talon Cluster. At twenty-four she is significantly younger than every other Loremaster to date but her martial prowess is unquestionable and the Clans agree to allow her to replace Thomas Ward as the defacto leader of Tukayyid, the Ebon Guard Cluster units and the Free Guilds based on Tukayyid. With Roshak’s rise to power it marks the second time that the Falcons have controlled the office in control of Tukkayid.
JumpShip Heart of Kerensky (Odyessy-class JumpShip)
Granada, Nueva Castile
Deep Periphery
26th September 3109
After several jumps away from the Clan Homeworlds the JumpShip Heart of Kerensky jumped into the Granada system of the Nueva Castile emerging above the system’s star at the nadir point. Standing at the back of the small bridge Star Colonel Alex Lassenum was immediately confronted by the wreckage of a WarShip. “It doesn’t conform to any known WarShip Star Captain Sukhanov.” The helm officer reported as the JumpShip’s sensors scanned the vessel “over six hundred metres in length, five hundred thousand tons” he said looking at the systems “it had an extensive weapons grid conventional and capital weapons.”
“So it is unlikely an original Star League-era vessel a prototype, possibly one that the SLDF abandoned on their way to the Homeworlds?”
“Negative there are definitely Clan markers on some of the construction methods used.” He replied looking at Wesley Sukhanov.
“A turn up for the books” the JumpShip’s Captain muttered looking at Alex Lassenum
“Aff…” Alex began before the helm officer interrupted.
“Sirs!” He warned as the JumpShip manoeuvred clearing the WarShip wreckage allowing the screens to display another ship waited at the jump point a Monolith-class JumpShip painted bone white “she identifies as the Whispers of Blake, belonging to the Word of Blake Militia.”
“What the hell is going on in this system?” Alex Lassenum wondered beyond the JumpShip hung another ship this one looked close to the size and dimensions of the wreck that the Heart of Kerensky had detected but appeared to have been modified.
“Communications from the WarShip it identifies as the Scorpio Miracle and it welcomes us to this system.” Another crewmen said “now that we are here we can join the others on the planet’s surface and the bidding can begin.”
“The others…” Alex Lassenum wondered quietly what he had gotten into in this system.
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WoB WoB WoB..... :))
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Blakists AND Scorpions working together? A++ DOUBLE HERESY!!!
Excellent update! The Suns strikes back (kinda), shanigans in the homeworlds and now this bombshell!
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Daniels Avengers have entered the AU, interesting.
Blakists and Goliath Scorpions together, that's nearly as bad as Nova Cats and Canopians coming together, heresy. ::) :D
The FS fighting back but is it enough. O0
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looks like we now might know were some crew from those battleships will come from... that McKenna might be able to push so nugs threw the required training. do you think the SLDF might turn one of the extra BB into a training ship or two back in the Sol system?
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I did say that September would be interesting...
The Fesnyng units
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=57586.msg1324869#msg1324869 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=57586.msg1324869#msg1324869)
The Akagi-class Assault Carrier
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=57580.0 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=57580.0)
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I decided to tell the whole periphery story in one section instead of breaking it up through the month. If it's a little hard to follow let me know and I can break it out into its own story thread with dates for each section.
Refugee Crisis
Altenmarkt Province
Rasalhague Dominion
4th October 3109
In the space of four days three JumpShips enter the Rasalhague Dominion from the Draconis Combine each carrying full loads of DropShips. Unlike previous incursions by the Draconis Combine these JumpShips do not carry troops of war instead they are each carrying thousands of civilians who immediately declare their surrender and request asylum within the Rasalhague Dominion. Without exactly knowing how to take these requests the local Rasalhague Dominion garrison commanders on Accrington, Port Moseby and Buckminster place these civilians in internment camps and call on Alshian for assistance.
Main Meeting Rooms
Granada, Nueva Castile
Deep Periphery
8th October 3109
It had taken a week to travel to Granada under the escort of the strange Goliath Scorpion WarShip from there they had been directed to make camp no closer than five kilometres from the main enclave and send their commander to the base where they were given a small office to work from. Alex Lassenum had found their procedure strange but had agreed to go along with it and instead of making any trouble had waited his time until he entered the main meeting room.
The room was dominated by a wooden circular table which had a hollow centre and was open on one side. Alex was first to arrive and had been directed by the Goliath Scorpion lower casteman to one of the seats there he waited until the “others” that the Scorpions had invited to this bid, the prize that Alex still didn’t fully know. Over the course of the next hour three more individuals were escorted in one Alex recognized as a Clan Sea Fox warrior/trader, while another wore what appeared to be Clan fatigues but he didn’t recognize the insignia she wore while the last wore all white robes which Alex guessed made him a representative of the Word of Blake. Alex remained silent as the others took their seat waiting for the Scorpion to arrive, they didn’t need to wait long before the self-styled Khan of the Goliath Scorpion Clan Ingo Yeh entered the room the representative of the Word of Blake rose to his feet but the others remained seated and quickly the man returned to his position.
“I thank you for coming” Ingo Yeh said speaking to all of them “the Goliath Scorpions with to rebuild their strength and become the Clan that we once were beginning with the conquest of the Nueva Castile, but to do this we need further resources and weapons. To that end we are willing to trade three of our four Scorpion II-class WarShips, vessels that are the same class as the vessel that escorted you in, we are willing to trade these to you for the right price and we welcome your bids from the Sea Fox Clan, the Blood Spirit Clan, the Word of Blake and the Stone Spirit Clan.”
“Stone Spirits?” Alex almost instantly snapped looking at the young woman in the strange uniform “who the hell are you?” He demanded suddenly ignoring the others in the room.
“I am Star Colonel Sarah Campbell of the Stone Spirits” she answered defiantly
“Stone Spirits…” Alex repeated “as in Omega Galaxy?” He asked rising from his chair “you traitorous bitch!” He snapped remembering what the people of his Clan had called the members of Omega Galaxy who had abandoned their Clan and the Homeworlds during the assault on York. Without another word Alex about turned and walked out of the room returning to the side office his Clan had been assigned.
Several hours past before Khan Ingo Yeh sent for Alex Lassenum. He walked back along the corridors returning to the meeting room finding only the Khan remaining within the room. Alex sat down at the same chair he had before and looked at the Goliath Scorpion leader. “That was quite a display, Star Colonel”
“I apologise Khan but things that have happened to our Clans has made it easy to lose tempers when confronted by their results.”
“I know this, Star Colonel, I am the Khan of a Clan that has two Galaxies on paper” he explained the truth hurt far more with only a single galaxies worth of troops and equipment filling out these troops. “I am willing to trade away the majority of my Clan’s naval strength to keep it operational much like your Blood Spirits once did.” He explained “now I am willing to overlook your previous outburst but further trouble will not be tolerated. Do I make myself clear quiaff?”
“Aff, Khan, quite clear.” He said
“Very good, the bidding process begins in three days time, have your bid ready.”
***
Over the next three days Alex avoided Sarah Campbell like she carried the plague he didn’t need to see her and be reminded about what her people had done to his Clan. At the same time he and the small detachment of Blood Spirits that had been allowed into the Goliath Scorpion enclave had tried to learn as much as they could about the others and their bids. So far they had learned that the Stone Spirits and Word of Blake representatives had made similar offers with equipment and the promise to clear out the Nueva Castile for the Goliath Scorpions on the table. The Word of Blake representative Demi-Precentor Robert Zurbin had also approached the Scorpions about moving the Clan closer to Terra to co-habit a world the Word of Blake continued to operate from within one of the Succession States.
The Sea Foxes who had come from the Clan’s Coral Skate Khanate, which Alex understood was roughly representative of a Galaxy in the reorganized Clan, had offered the Goliath Scorpions weapons and equipment for access to their WarShips. When Alex had spoken to the warrior he had admitted that he was surprised to hear that the Blood Spirits continued to contest the Homeworlds believing that all Clan presence had been destroyed. During their discussion they had also enquired with Alex about the fate of the Armageddon, a Hell’s Horses Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser, which had been taken by the Sea Fox Clan and then gone missing when the Clan evacuated the Homeworlds. It had been Alex Lassenum’s duty to inform the Sea Fox warrior/trader that the Armageddon, its crew and passengers currently served the Society within Clan space with the ship itself known to be a Society Research facility which would no doubt enrage both the Sea Fox and Hell’s Horses Clans but there was little he could do.
From the Fox trader Alex learned that eight other Clans, not including the Stone Spirits, remained active in the Inner Sphere and periphery and almost all of them had given up hope of returning to the Homeworlds instead they had continued to strengthen their own positions, deepening their ties with the worlds they had conquered and routing out the Society threats that still remained within their Toumans. In some ways Alex hated the other Clans for abandoning the Homeworlds but in others he envied them for their current good fortune.
When it came to the Blood Spirit bid Alex found himself sitting in the meeting room once more waiting for Khan Ingo Yeh. He could not offer the Goliath Scorpion survivors the weapons or resources that the others had offered instead he had chosen another tactic – hope. “Star Colonel, welcome” Yeh began
“Thank you Khan” Alex began “I am not here to offer you weapons or resources.” He said judging Yeh’s reaction he could tell the man wasn’t too impressed “my reasons are simple. A Clan that can’t stand on its own is not a Clan.” He pointed out “I have heard that the so-called Stone Spirits have offered to conquer Nueva Castile for you Quiaff?” Yeh nodded “and once they have finished the will leave you in peace Quineg? It is not our way to abandon what we have won in combat.”
“Not counting your personal prejudice against them.” Yeh noted “we do not have the resources to police the Nueva Castile so it is not something I was considering.”
“While I hear that the Sea Foxes are willing to give you the equipment you need.” Alex carried on showing that his people had paid attention to what the others were willing to provide. “While the Word of Blake, your wildcard invitation, are willing to offer you a place in the Inner Sphere.”
“Aff” Yeh admitted impressed that the Blood Spirit warrior knew so much.
“You do understand that if you took their offer you would never be a Clan again. The Word of Blake were once part of ComStar which was bad but actions that the Word took in the Inner Sphere have made them Dezgra to all Clansmen.”
“We are not currently considered Clan. We were Abjured. We are Dezgra too.”
“Because of the Serpents, my Clan is willing to overlook that decision.” Alex admitted he didn’t for certain know if the Old Khan would agree with him on this choice but her choice to fly all Clan flags on Colleen, including the Wolverine’s, made him think that she would. “We cannot help you conquer this nation it would waste resources that we do not have. However, we could offer you a place back within the Homeworlds.”
“Explain”
“Return with us to the Homeworlds. You will be given territory on our world” he explained “there the Goliath Scorpions will stand with the Blood Spirits.” He suggested “if your Clan fights alongside mine you will be able to rebuild at a pace your people are comfortable with and when the Homeworlds are once again ours you will have won your right to be part of them.”
“And what of the others?”
“You promised them a weapons demonstration correct?”
“Aff” Yeh admitted all of the parties wanted to see the Cruisers in action.
“Then you give them one.” Alex said coldly taking Yeh by surprise by the change in Alex’s demeanour and the immediate edge to it.
***
A couple of days later the Goliath Scorpions had gathered all of the parties together in the main auditorium along with several of the designers of the WarShips and Scorpion traders. Yeh had ordered his people to mingle with their guests but the numbers of Scorpions had also gone a long way to hiding a number of Blood Spirit warriors who were among the crowd. To maintain security the Scorpions had deployed several Elementals in full Battle Armour around the room, though no trouble was expected, Khan Yeh was apparently taking no chances. On large screens images of what the Scorpion WarShips were doing near Granada’s moon. Alex Lassenum remained near the other negotiating parties waiting for the right moment he glanced across at Khan Ingo Yeh who nodded ready quickly Alex Lassenum acted raising his communicator to his mouth “Echo, Delta, Tango” he said speaking the code phrase which translated simply to “Execute Designated Targets” without a moment’s hesitation Alex drew his sidearm and pointed it at the back of Demi-Precentor Zurbin’s head pulling the trigger on the pistol sending a burst of shots into the Word of Blake officer. He spun quickly smashing the weapon into the face of Sarah Campbell knocking out the Star Colonel. However even as Alex surveyed his immediate successes in taking out his two rivals a large blow slammed him in the back rolling out of the fall Alex twisted and got back to his feet only to see the bloodied Demi-Precentor Zurbin standing there looking enraged. Half of the man’s skull appeared to be missing since Alex’s attack and instead a massive metal plate had been exposed. The man’s eyes had an almost demonic red tone to them. Not hesitating Alex fired another burst from his sidearm into the man’s chest shredding the clothing and skin there but this time Zubin didn’t go down instead he looked at the bullet holes and the blood oozing from the wound before raising his right arm towards Alex where his hand had been a large barrel of a concealed weapon had been exposed. Even as Alex fired again he shouted at the Elementals to act as Zubin’s concealed laser blast tore across the space between him and Alex narrowly missing. Immediately the two Goliath Sorpion warriors fired bursts of weapons fire into Zurbin from their support machine guns knocking the man to the ground for a second time. Unfortunately there was no way for the troopers to control the spray of bullets and nearly a dozen other Goliath Scorpions were struck by the weapons fire some fatally. As Khan Yeh crossed the room the entire facility shook as heavy weapons fire struck the ground nearby.
“You said this would be as bloodless as we could make it.” Yeh said accusingly looking at Alex as medics rushed in to tend to the wounded.
“I didn’t expect a monster to rise in the place of the man” he said noting that the bombardment was continuing outside. “What is happening outside?”
“None of them expected the WarShips to be so close our shuttle transmissions put them off unfortunately his people are still active and moving away from their landing sites.” He explained looking down at the fallen Yeh had not agreed with Alex’s plan to use their WarShips to bombard all other visiting parties and to hide where the Goliath Scorpions were going but had eventually agreed. He hated targeting the Sea Foxes most of all but there was no way to inform them of their plan without the others finding out. The four Scorpion II-class Cruisers had positioned themselves above the Clan’s enclave running without their main sensors or transponders active instead leaving small craft near the moon to provide fake readings.
“Fine, we will do it the old fashioned way” Alex Lassenum decided raising the communicator to his mouth “Lassenum to all Spirits get to your Mechs.”
***
Nearly an hour later Alex Lassenum was in the fight for his life. He was seated in his Osteon OmniMech and locked in a battle with the Word of Blake unit while surrounded by Blood Spirit and Goliath Scorpion units. Despite the orbital bombardment which struck their landing zone the Word of Blake unit had survived and were at this moment pressing against the Clansmen hitting far harder than they had expected. What did not help was that each of the Word OmniMechs appeared to be of classes that were not in any battle library available to the Clansmen they faced meaning it was nearly impossible to guess their tactics.
As a group of tightly packed long range missiles slammed into his Osteon Alex turned to see a Goliath Scorpion Linebacker fall under enemy fire. He turned on the strange looking OmniMech that had attacked the Linebacker and looked at his sensor image from what he could tell it was it was no heavier than fifty tons and had particle cannon weaponry with some sort of blade attached to one of its arms. That made the Mech at least thirty-five tons lighter than his own assault design. He targeted the enemy design with his Mech’s four large pulse lasers and burned down the side of the enemy BattleMech burning the armour and removing the Mech’s right arm and leg under the vicious assault Alex’s immediate fire being too much for the enemy OmniMech. Even as the enemy fell his OmniMech was hit by two gauss rifles which tore over the torso of the Mech ripping into the armour. Turning he saw something that resembled a King Crab in some ways but had its arms arranged above the chassis instead of below Alex’s warbook named it as a Vanquisher just before two red laser beams burned into his Osteon’s right arm. Alex fired a group of pulse laser blasts into the one hundred ton BattleMech burning its armour as he cut to the right as his Mech cut through the undergrowth a group of particle cannons from a Word of Bake Brutus Armoured Vehicle cut into his Mech. Firing his pulse lasers again this time into the tank he felt a wave of heat rushing through his cockpit glancing at his sensors Alex knew he was in trouble with rising heat and slowly being surrounded by enemy unit’s.
“All units FIREFLY, I repeat FIREFLY” he commanded calling the retreat code “enclave command Omega Delta on my position in two minutes!” He commanded giving the code for further orbital bombardment as he began to try and back away from the enemy this time only firing two of his pulse lasers this time into the Vanquisher.
“Star Colonel Lassenum repeat your last!” The command base’s radio officer repeated Alex cursed inside his cockpit at the man’s use of his name hoping that the Word of Blake hadn’t penetrated their communications. He was snapped out of his cursing as two more gauss rifle slugs slammed into his Osteon’s ferro lamellor armour.
“Fine I’ll spell it out to you!” Alex snapped “all units are to fall back” he said looking at the cockpit clock “and I want orbital bombardment on this position in two minutes!”
“That is not in the Clan’s agreed engagement instructions” the man replied a moment later.
“I don’t care we’ve broken Clan Engagement Rules already today doing you stavag! Tie your targeting on my transponder, find this position and get those ships to fire when I asked.” He demanded firing his weapons this time into the Brutus which had turned its attention on a Blood Spirit Adder savaging the light OmniMech some how the light Adder remained standing under the assault. Around him he could see units were trying to disengage but that the Word of Blake were continuing to press. Taking a chance he launched the Osteon into the air flying into the centre of the enemy formation crashing down on top of a squad of Longinus Battle Armour troopers scattering them. He looked down at his clock and saw 01:30 displayed he twisted the Mech’s torso firing two pulse lasers into one unknown OmniMech before twisting the other way and firing another two pulse lasers into another target as weapons fire continued to fly all around him. The momentary confusion caused by his jump now over as an autocannon blast scattered across his Mech’s armour causing little damage he smirked thanking the Ferro Lamellor not for the first time as he twisted to face the enemy Mech and fired both pulse lasers again this time at his newest attacker with one connecting with its target he looked at the clock 01:00.. 00:59 ignoring further targets he jumped his OmniMech into the air trying to reverse his jump as missiles flew towards his Osteon. Landing near his original position he immediately jumped again 00:40 this time stopping to turn and engage another enemy Mech this one identifiable as a lightly armoured Excalibur which his pulse lasers had little trouble exploiting as they burned through the armour triggering an ammunition explosion. Before the enemy Mech succumb to its internal explosions another gauss rifle shot flew between the two Mechs ripping up the left arm of the Osteon destroying one of the large pulse lasers. Alex Lassenum ignored the damage firing another barrage of pulse laser fire this time into a Word of Blake hovercraft before launching into the air again 00:20 remaining.
He looked at his distance to two hundred and eighty metres still too close he thought as more laser fire struck his OmniMech. Ignoring the newest attacker he jumped again intending on increasing the gap as much as possible as his OmniMech rose he felt the Mech rock as more weapons fire struck its back. Only the Ferro Lamellor armour stopped a breach in the torso armour while one blast struck the Osteon’s head. On any other OmniMech Alex had piloted it would have meant that he was a dead man but not the Osteon with its torso mounted cockpit. Unfortunately the loss of the head section also saw most of his instruments including his clock short out as the OmniMech lost its sensors and suffered power failures. Bringing the OmniMech down in a heavy landing he staggered the Osteon forwards as munitions from the orbiting WarShips began slamming into the ground consuming several enemy units in their initial blasts. Alex had no idea how close the blasts were landing to him so he staggered forwards completely blind as more naval autocannon and naval lasers tore through the ground near the Word of Blake unit annihilating several of them.
As Alex continued forwards he couldn’t see the bombardment but he could feel it as the ground continued to shake for several minutes he just continued walking the Osteon in the same direction hoping he was heading the right way. He felt something strike his OmniMech and then what felt like a weight move over his Mech’s back before he could react he heard someone tap into his Mech’s communications system “Sir, you can stop the bombardment has broken the Word’s back and the JumpShip has left the system, it’s over.” The voice stated after a moment he realized that an allied battle armoured trooper had landed on his OmniMech.
“It is over for now” he said wondering if they had made another enemy.
Medical Ward, Washburn Royal Infirmary
Washburn, District of Marik
Free Worlds League
18th October 3109
Duchess Lucy Marik lay on her side looking across the bed at the small medical cot where her daughter Kaylee Marik quietly slept. Behind her father sat on a chair watching his daughter and newest grand-daughter Duke Bernard Buckwell had remained quiet until now “does he know she’s been born yet?” He asked
“Yes” she said “he’s surprised at what one night can produce but he sounded happy in the message I got.” She replied surprised that her husband’s guards and spies had done as she requested and kept quiet about the pregnancy. “He said he will have to order a review about our security arrangements here.”
“Over my dead body” her father replied “although he has a point.” He admitted why the guards had not reported what they had to have known was beyond Bernard Buckwell he hadn’t tried to buy them off but it appeared that these men and women were more loyal to their Duchess than their Captain-General something that likely would not continue.
“Whatever” she whispered quietly
“Perhaps it is time to reunite your family.” Bernard Buckwell said prompting the conversation in the direction he wished his daughter rolled over to look at him “I love having you hear Lucy. With your mother passing the last few months have been hard I’ve questioned many things but your place is with your husband ruling the Free Worlds League.”
“Probably not for much longer the elections will see Regulus rule us to our doom they will bring us fully into the conflict with the Capellans broadening our attacks on them. We will see war on all fronts something this League cannot survive.”
“That’s all the more reason for you to be with your husband and to show a united front for the nation. To bring everyone together little Zach has had enough time to recover from his operation it is time that his brother’s and sisters got to know him, including your newest addition.” He said looking over at baby Kaylee.
“But, what about you, who will look after you if I’m not here?”
“Your brothers and sisters are not that far away. It’s about time I began to bring Matthew up to speed on how to run this place anyway.”
“Don’t talk like that” she said scowling at him “you’ve got many years to go yet.” She said not bearing to lose him as well as her mother. Lucy Marik knew that her father was correct in what he had said ever since Joseph Marik had visited in January she had felt like there was a part missing from her life
Clan Nova Cat Command
Farstar, Nova Cat Occupation Zone
Periphery
25th October 3109
Since arriving back on Farstar Katrine Devalis had been in a worse mood than most of her warriors had seen her since she led them to the world and the invasion of the Draconis Combine. “I should have killed him” she said angrily looking at the reports and then to Galaxy Commander Malcolm West, her strongest supporter and the commander of Zeta Galaxy.
“Unfortunately the Khan is well within his right to recall the 450th Assault Cluster and the 109th Striker both commander require rest and refit which we still struggle to accomplish here.” West replied “the four clusters of additional troops that you brought with you should offset their loss.” He spoke of them like a combat loss.
“Two combat hardened commands replaced with four Clusters of men and women who have not seen enough fighting and have too many vehicles among them.” She said disgusted by her replacement units both the 450th and 109th had bled to hold this territory, though she wondered how dedicated they were to her cause.
“Then we blood them and show the Draconis Combine that there is more in these commands that inexperienced warriors. I especially look forward to the debut of the Strix and the SM-6 they should work well together.”
“Aff, the Khan certainly must believe that considering he allowed their developments in the first place.”
“They are simple weapons” Malcolm West said “we could never use them against the other Clans but against the Inner Sphere, it is something they will never expect.” He said relishing the new surprise the two vehicles, which were equipped with stealth armour, would bring to a new surprise to the Draconis Combine.
“We will send them to Leyland and Harshill and show the Combine that we still have claws.”
“The Sixth Sword of Light and Third An Ting are deployed over those two worlds.” West cautioned her.
“Then our four new Clusters will have their work cut out.” She declared smiling “deploy the Aspect of Glass with our troops they will take care of any naval resistance and provide aerospace fighter support but no naval bombardment, we are not barbarians.”
“I will ensure the ship’s complement is clear on your command.” West said leaving the room leaving Katrine Devalis to ponder her next move, despite Khan Canin Rosse’s efforts her people were stronger than ever, she would prove to their Clan that the Nova Cats had the might to take on the Draconis Combine and win. A few days later the the new Cluster available to the saKhan assaulted Harshill and Leyland assaulting the veteran command of the DCMS losses were high among the troops of the Seventieth Nova Cat Roar Cluster and the Sixteenth Nova Cat Vision Cluster but overall the operation was a success with the Sixth Sword of Light completely destroyed in the fighting and the broken Third An Ting Legion forced into retreat.
Elsewhere the Nova Cats expanded into two of the worlds of the Cat’s Tail further expanding the Nova Cat’s influence over their periphery region. The Nova Cat’s expansion both at their Den and in the Occupation Zone further shows that the Clan are not ready sit quietly on the sidelines.
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I'm confused. the GS are short weapons, but they could make four CA sized warships of a completely new design? that has to be an interesting back story.
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I suspect the Scorpions managed to salvage a portion of the Lum shipyards and were able to bring it with them in their exodus from the Homeworlds. Meanwhile they may have been unable to bring an equivalent ground forces factory.
Regardless, very interesting updates - the Dragon seems to be taking it on just about all sides right now, the only real reprieve is on the longer portion of the Rasalhague border, and the Ravens...
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I know three things.
1) My beloved Whispers.... :)
2) New GS warships? ( Wonder who gave DC that idea? )
3) Dragon Cat writes the best stories, no?
TT
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3) Dragon Cat writes the best stories, no?
Agreed, I especially am impressed with his ability to keep multiple stories going at the same time. :)
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Go get'em Scorpions. Kill all the Wobblies! Kill them dead and then melt their metallic remains.
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Kill the Wobbies then sell their remains for scrap.
GS with 4 new warships, TT what have you done.
Great work DC. O0
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Normally I thank someone before I post what they've added to this AU but this time it was pretty intentional that I didn't thank truetanker for what was coming as he didn't know how I was going to use the contributions I was given. So I'd like to say Thanks TT for the Scorpion-class Cruisers and the WoB unit.
I'll post the Scorpions stats as soon as I finish off the fluff which will hopefully explain where they came from, I left it out of what I've posted here because it just made it feel really boring and repeating what I'm going to say in the descriptions of the ships.
There will also be more from the homeworlds in the future.
Either way I'm glad you're enjoying the multiple different perspectives that's going on. I'm going to try and include some more from the Chainelane Isles, Taurians and Magistracy in the future since they seem to be a little neglected unfortunately the Combine, Rasalhague, the Ravens, Wolves and Falcons also have stuff coming up...
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The Whispers of Blake can be found in the Non-Canon thread for those that want to play. But the Omega Tau Infantry can only be accessed by PMing me, because:
2x 6-MD troopers
2 MP
Armor divsor: 3
And so on....
TT
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Excellent update! And it seems the Scorpions are returning home with 4 new warships to help the Clans fight The Society. Although the presence of the MD worries me greatly, they must still be operating out of the Hidden that remain..well..hidden.
Also this line made me think.
her people were stronger than ever
Does Katrine Devalis view the forces under her command as being separate from the Cats? This thought makes me think so as it was HER people. Not the Clans, hers.
Which raises a question. How easy or hard is it to declare yourself as a new Clan? Seeing as Devalis does seem to think of herself and those under her command as seemingly separate from the Cats and with a Yardship and the resources they need sans factories, could she one day go "Hey, we're now Clan Golden Honey Badger" or is there some process to go through beyond all the trials ever?
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Sounds like those visions of Flying Griffins will be a thing soon.
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Marauder - to answer your question. Easy enough it would not be the first Clan created see "Stone Rhinos" there is a precedent for it in this AU but it hasn't been done here
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[watch]
I wanna see more of what you've done to my babies.... ;)
And if you want... PM on the way! ( Shh! Quite you hagglers, I don't want to see your groans as DC unleashes more story funs for you to read about! )
TT
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Another addition to this AU from Truetaker the Scorpion-class Cruiser
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=57723.new#new (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=57723.new#new)
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I nickname this month Clan November
First Battle of Donegal
Donegal, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
2nd November 3109
Clan BattleMechs and DropShips fell through the sky as Clan Jade Falcon launched an invasion of the Province Capital. Above the planet elements of the Fifteenth Lyran Guard Fighter Wing, Lyran assault DropShips and the Aerospace Mercenary unit Agatha’s Protectors were dying attempting to stop Jade Falcon aerospace forces and the WarShips Emerald Talon and Star Ranger as they moved in on the planet.
On the ground at the Lyran’s command tent General Juliet Simms tried to marshal her own Fifteenth Lyran Guard, the Planetary militia and the mercenary command Blackledge’s Iron Hand. “Sang-shao Blackledge your people are to hold the east flank of the capital, General Scanlan’s Militia will hold the centre while my Fusiliers will hold the west and act as a flanking element capable of supporting either other force.” She said confidently the Fifteenth Lyran Guard was significantly larger than either other unit employed in Donegal’s defence.
“What good is holding the city with three WarShips appearing over head? We can hold their ground forces but at the threat of Orbital Bombardment we cannot hold.” Sang-shao Matt Blackledge argued the mercenary was in the fight for money not glorious death.
“We only need to concentrate on the three clusters that are making landfall” Simms explained “the planetary defence grid will defend us from the WarShips.”
“Defence grid?”
“You did not think the Commonwealth would leave us so unprotected did you Mr Blackledge?” She said smiling fearsly “the Falcons proved at Arc Royal that they are becoming a beast that the Commonwealth will struggle to control in the future so we have taken efforts to protect certain worlds. On this very world there are eighteen Mark VIII Kraken Defence Missiles each more than capable of punching a hole in those WarShips armour.”
“That could bring bombardment down on us” the militia commander General Pike Malone stated showing his surprise along with the mercenaries.
“The missiles will only be used if the Falcons settle into orbit over our cities or their ground forces are going to prevail. One final act of defiance from Donegal” Simms said proudly.
“My people have family on Donegal! We cannot jepordise civilian lives just to prove we will not roll over to invasion.”
“We must and we will, the decision has been made and it was made by those with more power than either you or I.” Simms pointed out “if we believe the Falcons will prevail those missiles will fire.”
“Is this why the Fifteenth was sent here to replace the Fourth Donegal Guards? And the Thirty-sixth moved off planet? For one act of defiance?”
“The Fourth Donegal were needed on Westerstead following the floods last month hundreds of people have benefitted from their presence there. The Thirty-sixth were needed to shore up the defences on Tharkad.
“Should Donegal fall…”
“General Malone, Donegal will not fall.” Simms stated angrily “now you have your assignments” she said as the ground around them shook they all looked at the entry where an officer appeared.
“Mam, the Jade Falcons have employed artillery.”
“Already? They seem confident.” Simms noted marching out of the tent leaving Sang-shao Blackledge and General Malone alone.
“If they break through our lines, bring your troops… and your families and bring then to our lines. I will do all I can to get everyone out of this mess.” Blackledge promised the militia commander.
“You’re a mercenary, Colonel, I should be the one making that offer to you.”
“General, with respect my people have more experience and better weapons.” He said nodding his head towards the older man “if everything goes to hell don’t trust that guard to keep your people safe.”
The three Jade Falcon units assaulted the Donegal defenders intentionally striking the Lyran Guards positions pressing them in waves with BattleMechs and ProtoMechs leading the charge with artillery and combat vehicles supporting them. The Lyran Guards held firm for the first three days of the battle however as the days wore on they began to break. Holding the Falcon’s flank was Star Colonel Stannis Rosse and the Fifth Ebon Guard Cluster. Stannis Rosse and his troops who had been taken by the Falcons in their efforts to rebuild and were of a greater quality than most of the Falcons present and pushed through Guard lines until they reached the Guard’s command areas finding General Simms command lance a quartet of Zeus Assault BattleMechs.
“I am General Juliet Simms commander of the Lyran Guards, your troops presence here and the actions you have taken will bring the might of the Lyran Commonwealth down on your Clan.”
“And I am Stannis Rosse of the Falcons you will come down on us just like you did after Arc Royal Quineg? You are but lambs to our slaughter, prepare too die.” He said from his Turkina Assault OmniMech’s cockpit even as the fighting continued around them.
“Your forces cannot take Donegal there are other units which will stop you.”
“They haven’t stopped us yet” Rosse stated
“But they will with my help” she stated back. Around the city and in the mountains beyond capital missiles launched from their silos heading into the sky above them assaulting the Star Ranger, a Peregrine II-class Corvette, above several of the missiles were shot down by the Ranger’s defences before several made their way towards the corvette slamming into its hull ripping into the armour. One of the missiles penetrated the Star Ranger’s Hull and exploded inside the vessel detonating the small vessel’s fuel reserves blowing the vessel apart.
On the ground Stennis Rosse saw the missiles rising into the sky and ignored them he knew if they were going into space then he could not stop them and if they were going to arc back around and strike the ground then he would soon die. Instead of worrying about the missiles he targeted one of the enemy Zeus Assault BattleMechs and fired his OmniMech’s weapons tearing down the eighty ton BattleMech with particle, laser and missile weapons. To each side of Rosse his starmates joined their fire to Rosse’s and took out the remaining three Zeus BattleMech’s.
Over the following few days the First Battle of Donegal ended with the remains of the Lyran Guards meeting up with the Donegal Militia and Blackledge’s Iron Hand. The defenders continued to hold the majority of the city and the planet beyond it but the Falcons were there to stay at least for the time being. With the Star Ranger little more than an expanding ball of metal the Emerald Talon pulled back from the planet while the remaining Falcon ground forces began searching for any of the defence missiles which the Lyrans had buried under Donegal’s surface. Elsewhere the Falcons captured Biuqui, Krievci, Alma Alta and Cameron from the Lyran Commonwealth as the Clansmen exposed a weakness in the Commonwealth lines.
Clan Council, Council Chambers
Siverdale, Alshian
Alshian District, Rasalhague Dominion
13th November 3109
At a meeting of all the bloodnamed warriors of the Ghost Bears of the Rasalhague Dominion Star Colonel Josh Snuka felt uncomfortably warm. He was not used to these events instead he had spent nearly ten years on Outpost at the farthest reach of the Clan’s Dominion of control. The last three years however things had changed he had won rank and name and now he was among the leaders of their Clan. Khan Ragnar Magnesson stood in the centre of the oval room as ranks of warriors sat watching him Snuka was a MechWarrior so he, the other warriors of his military branch and the aerospace fighter pilots sat near the front while those of Elemental build sat further back allowing everyone to speak.
“I believe we can accommodate these refugees, the troubles of the Draconis Combine are not ours and we should not interfere, these men and women are already on our worlds. We should be prepared to offer medical treatment and food and be prepared to find them work within our borders accept them into our wider family.”
“And if they do not wish to contribute, Khan, what then?” Another warrior asked challenging Magnesson’s words.
“Then we ship them out back to the Combine and let them rot.” The Khan answered which was received with several stamped feet as people showed their appreciation for his words. “We could use men and who are looking for an honest day’s living. Those who want to be here will become productive members of our society.”
“My Khan there is already raising crime on Buckminster and Accrington” another Ghost Bear warrior near Josh Snuka said he was an older man who looked like he had seen many battles. Khan Magnesson stepped closer for a moment glancing in Snuka’s direction he suddenly felt much warmer.
“We will deploy a Claw cluser to each star system to shore up security and support the troops on those worlds.” The Khan said again another two thumps of the floor followed as several bloodnamed warriors agreed with him. The Khan stepped away heading back to the middle of the room but as he stepped away answering another question Josh Snuka felt his tempreture rising even further he couldn’t take it it any more and stood up gaining the attention of the Khan for a moment “yes, Star Colonel…?” The Khan asked looking at him but not knowing the name all eyes turned on him for a moment and Snuka’s felt like the unbearable tempreture would continue to rise.
“My Khan, may I have a moment please, a call of nature?” He said making up an excuse such occurrences were rare but the Khan must have been able to see his discomfort and he nodded. Josh Snuka then took the last step that he ever took as he moved the explosives grafted to his bones exploded literally ripping Snuka and the entire Bloodnamed council to pieces killing the Khan, saKhan and Loremaster along with a hundred others in a fireball.
Clan Raids
Minette Combat Region
Crucis March, Federated Suns
20th November 3109
With Canin Rosse still recovering from his wounds following the Circle of Equals with Katrine Devalis the Galaxy Commanders of Xi and Omicron Galaxies take it upon themselves to launch Trials of Possession against the Federated Suns with the worlds of Rentz and Kiza targeted by Xi Galaxy while Omicron Galaxy target Gronholt and Hoonaar. Each world is targeted using standard Clan Trials of Possession which the AFFS defenders agree to fight alongside. The AFFS lose control over all four worlds but launch a counter attack recapturing Rentz and the world of Morven from the Nova Cats using the same tactic as the Clan warriors.
Clan Trials
Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
24th November 3109
In what could only be described as a test of loyalty Clan Wolf deploys the ten clusters that formerly belonged to the Mountain Wolf Clan against the Lyran Commonwealth targeting the “Dubhe Sailent.” The two Wolf Galaxies fall on their former Steiner allies and the mercenaries supporting them and in five rapid strikes they bring Dubhe, Callison, Wyat, Alchiba and Milton into Wolf territory.
The former Wolves allow the Lyrans and the surviving mercenaries to withdraw from the worlds with their equipment and all personnel who wish to leave showing there is still warden leanings within the units. Although the actions in taking the worlds and bringing the Clan closer to Terra convince many that their ties to the Inner Sphere are gone.
Free Worlds League Elections
Atreus, District of Marik
Free Worlds League
30th November 3109
The Free Worlds League elections had been stalemated for hours with Duke Joseph Marik equalled with Prince Lester Cameron-Jones on votes to become the next Captain-General. If there was no decision made then Joseph Marik would by default remain the Captain-General which many were happy for it to continue. Sitting with his wife Duchess Lucy Marik the Captain-General had been quite confident until Prince Lester Cameron-Jones had taken the floor.
“I understand that many of you do not trust me to lead the Free Worlds League. Many of you believe I have profited from the troubles that have befallen the District of Oriente.” He said hearning a murmur around the room as many agreed. “You also believe that if I were to become Captain-General that I would lead this entire nation into war with the Capellan Confederation.” He said seeing many agreed with that thought “but Duke Marik has something hidden as well for example how his son Zacheriah has recently recovered from a near fatal condition.” He said looking over at the Captain-General “what many of you do not know is that Duke Marik agreed a deal with Clan Sea Fox to treat his son and in exchange he has agreed for them to take control over Ideyid, Shasta and Mundrabilla.”
“That is a lie” Joseph Marik said standing up “I have provisionally agreed for them to open trade outposts on those worlds but their local governments remain in control.” His admission went around the room rapidly and he could tell that it was not a popular decision. “The Sea Foxes have agreed to work with us to improve our health care systems throughout the Free Worlds League and the cost will be minimal to our nation.”
“For a continuing fee perhaps you’ll give them more of our worlds!” One said
“No worlds have been given to the Clan and no worlds will be.”
“Until they decide to take them” Lester Cameron-Jones said deciding to speak out what many of them were thinking. “It’s obvious we cannot trust Duke Marik to be completely honest with this Parliament and you do not all believe in me. So what are we to do?” He asked looking around the room “I will show us the path, something that is different from what we currently face and a true departure from what has come before and a true trust in democracy which this Parliament so trusts in.” He said glancing over at Duke Joseph Marik with a knowing look on his face Lester would not be Captain-General today but neither would a scion of the Marik family. “So I throw my support behind the one person in this room who has gained the full backing of their nation and I hope you will join me in supporting Prime Minister Abraham Ledford as the new Captain-General of the Free Worlds League.” He said turning towards the stunned leader of the District of Bowang.
The support from Abraham Ledford grew over the next few hours until there was nothing that could be said or done that could overturn the decision. By the end of the day the man from the once insignificant world of Bowang was now the new Captain-General of the entire Free Worlds League.
NOTE: The Ebon Guard unit seen on Donegal is completely under Jade Falcon control. It is one of the units that the Falcons took from the Ebon Guard as part of Trials of Possession a couple of years back.
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Green November Rising? ;D O0
Great Update.
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New leadership in the League and the clans being clan some more (except those dirty Dominionites >:D).
Great update!
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Hoooooooooly shuzbutt! An assassination of the Khan and upper leadership and many of the bloodnamed...once the Bears find out who did this they are gonna go berserk.
Who ever did this might as well have gone 'you know what..frak it' and thrown a nuke into the mix..just for added spice O_o
And the Falcons are crossing the borders again, the Lyrans really are not getting any breaks, but at least their fleets in a stronger position than it was a few years ago.
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Looks like a Wobbie attack on the Bears, as they have done this before.
Is there anything left of the Lyrans, they are really hurting.
So Falcons, Wolves and Nova Cats attack and Ghost Bears get attacked.
Interesting month. O0
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Marauder getting a nuke past security was a bit difficult a walking bomb easier
Snakespinner where said bomb came from well I'll answer that eventually promise
No more updates due for a week or so I'm going on a little trip and internet access will be spotty at best
Please continue to speculate or ask questions if you fancy I'll answer when I get the chance updates will continue towards back end of month with the end of 3109 and beyond. Some great stuff coming including contributions from marauder and Vition in the near future
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The Bear's states of Agitation
(http://i.imgur.com/2ge4mBo.gif)
We're currently on stage 2. When they find out who did this they will go straight to stage 4.
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I think I know who done it, but total supposition on my part. (and I might have given him the idea, but probably not)
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well... Bears.... closed borders and paranoia, and then once they have a target, oh.... no mercy there. ... wow. still... man... about time the bears got a kick in the balls :'(
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I wonder if some clues could be planted pointing to the DC.
Now that would be interesting.
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I wonder if some clues could be planted pointing to the DC.
Now that would be interesting.
I don't know: suicide bombing is more Loki than DEST, so I'd say someone could be trying to pin it on the Lyrans.
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well... from top of my head, i could only think of maybe two or three factions who could actually turn bones into bombs in a living human being... maybe you should look to these groups first, guys :D
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O:-)
I didn't say anything...
}:)
[watch]
TT
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Intelligence Report - Wolf's Dragoons
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=57888.new#new (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=57888.new#new)
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awesome update!! Nice to read about the status of WD!
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If I may ask, what is the current location and status of the Alpha Team and the Charlestown Chiefs?
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If I may ask, what is the current location and status of the Alpha Team and the Charlestown Chiefs?
I'll provide answers to both here along with other units as I go
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=57910.new#new (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=57910.new#new)
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December 3109 - again
Finally an update with some Falcon trouble from marauder and some trouble for the Draconis Combine by Vition - thanks to both for their contributions
Command and Control
Snow Raven, Snow Raven-class Battleship
Dante, Raven Alliance
5th December 3109
“My Khan, we have received the Dragon’s response,” his commtech reported, forwarding it to the khan’s console.
Reading the reply, Khan Vir Sukhanov looks up, “It is as I expected, they have rebuffed our last proposal, they will not budge. The Dragon has brought this on themselves by refusing to surrender the systems rightfully ours. Send the order to begin Operation Portent. Then prepare the jump to Kazanka.” It was time to fulfill his promise to the Alliance.
The Snow Raven along with its escorts jump through the occupied zone, using an uninhabited star as a quick stop before using their LFBs to jump to Kazanka.
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Shortly thereafter, seven of their nine galaxies move around the occupied zone, with four of them preparing to begin the invasion. Gamma and Delta Galaxies are preparing a pincer move to cut off the Combine’s easy access to the rest of the pocket. While, the Outworlds and Long Road Galaxies were preparing to push into the pocket itself each of these four are bolstered by a trio of warships, a Potemkin-class troop cruiser and a pair of destroyers, frigates, or cruisers. This causes the borders with the Federated Suns and the periphery to be lightly defended, but the Federated Suns focus on the Combine and Confederation and the periphery having been scoured of pirates, neither are considered threatened.
The rest of the fleet had been assigned to one of four groupings, the Fleet Command Star, Montbatton Naval Assault Star, Corsair Star, or the reserve Cruiser Star. The Fleet Command Star would be positioned in Kazanka to bolster the coreward assault, with the William Adams detached to Chirala as a quick warning for an expected Combine counter-attack. The Montbatton Naval Assault Star would be basing out of Dante, boosting the system’s defenses as well as providing support to the rimward edge of the assault. The Corsair Star would function similarly to privateers, hitting military targets of opportunity as the situations arose. Lastly the Cruiser Star would be sent to bolster the Spinward assault as soon as the many newer ships passed their shakedown tests.
Clan Wolf Raids
Star League Protectorate
18th December 3109
In what could only be described as the first probing raids Clan Wolf assault the Star League Protectorate worlds of Marcus and Nathan marking their first attempts at striking Star League held territory. Both worlds are under defended by the SLDF with only Guard Regiments and mercenary commands defending them but the Wolves have no intention on attempting to hold the planets instead they practice insertion runs and planetary landings against the worlds testing their aerospace defences and the SLDF Guard’s willingness to try and resist invasion. In both cases the Wolves retreat from the planetary surfaces within hours of their initial landings retreating quickly towards their Jump Points. In neither of the attacks do the Wolves declare their intentions, announce a Batchall with the defenders or fight along the lines of Zellbrigen.
Days after the Wolf raids Mizar announces it has joined the Star League Protectorate. The binary holiday world had reportedly been straining under the high taxes levied by Skye and House Kelswa-Steiner and the lack of development in the world and defence from new technologies. On the other hand the Star League Protectorate was offering a standing guard and advanced technologies to defend Mizar from all threats that could come to threaten their leisurely lifestyle.
Second Battle of Donegal
Donegal, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
21st December 3109
In the annuals of history what has been dubbed the Second Battle of Donegal will go down as a footnote. In what was little more than a reinforcement of both the Jade Falcon and Lyran Commonwealth positions turned into a pitched battle as both sides picked areas within striking distance of their opposition and both suffered losses as opportunistic warriors attempted to gain glory on both sides.
On the morning of the 21st Lyran reinforcements landed on Donegal’s North Eastern Flatlands trying to take advantage of the large open area which thus far had been untouched by Falcon invasion. Unfortunately just because an area has been untouched does not mean it is still not hazardous as Jade Falcon aerospace forces harassed Lyran DropShips belonging to the Second Royal Guards RCT as the unit attempted to reinforce the defenders positions there. Only the heavy Lyran aerospace fighter wings and assault DropShips assigned to the RCT stopped the Jade Falcons causing heavy damage to the command but even then a Gazelle was forced into a crash landing which resulted in a fireball which killed the crew and destroyed the crew, a Union-class vessel landed heavily crushing its Mechbay door trapping the Mech Company inside for several hours, and three other DropShips sustained enough damage to force them to return to orbit to effect temporary repairs.
On the evening of the same day the Jade Falcon’s Fourteenth Talon Cluster landed at Mair’s Farm south west of the capital in a cattle field. The landing of the Cluster’s DropShips appeared to be uncontested initially but that only lasted until the last Union C-class DropShip touched down. As the DropShips began to disembark from their DropShips command-detonated mines buried throughout the area by the defenders were detonated instantly killing the first units to disembark and two of the DropShips while damaging several others. The Lyrans were not finished as scout teams equipped with target accusation gear guided in wave after wave of artillery which destroyed the remaining DropShips amd the remaining Falcons of the Fourteenth Talon.
Jade Falcon Raid
Westerstede, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
22nd December 3109
“Gotcha you son of a…!” Staff Sargent Greer could not help but celebrate as he caught the bright green and yellow Puma in his sights. His Wolfhoud 2H computer chimed as he fired his Mech’s heavy PPC, the bolt of energy a brighter white/blue thanks to the added power provided by the capacitor worked into the heavy cannon. Ignoring the surge of heat that flooded the cockpit he added both ER mediums to the mix and was rewarded with a heavy explosion as the Puma’s missile ammo went up, its right arm falling away before the Clan Mech staggered and collapsed in a welter of smoke and fire.
“Danger close! Danger close!” The Mech’s computer, the good ‘ol Bitching Betty had picked up the next Clan Mech before Greer had even brought his Warhound around. It was one of the Falcon’s newer ones that some MechWarriors called ‘Chicks’ due to their stunted, vestigial arms but long legs which gave them a strange appearance and a weird gait when they moved. The Clanner was at the apex of its jump, ATM’s and ER lasers flaring, cutting divots into Greer’s Mech’s armour, blasting chunks of dirt out of the ground around him as several of the missiles missed but enough hit to cause worry.
The 2H packed a wallop but the Mech’s coolant system was working overtime to deal with the heat surge of his near alpha strike against the Puma growling, Greer threw his Mech into reverse, buying space and time, answering the Clanner’s fire with a neat cut across its chest from one of his lasers even that caused another heat bloom to enter the cockpit.
But the gaudily painted Clanner wasn’t giving him an inch, it closed the distance, pelting him with light laser fire that would have murdered infantry but was also slowly nibbling through the armour on his Mech’s chest and arms before it reared back and there was an almighty CLANG then a horrific screeching of metal on metal.
“What the hell!” Greer screamed as he fought to control his BattleMech as metal connected with metal as the Falcon’s BattleMech kicked his Wolfhound with its own.
“Whats up Sarge?”
“This bastard kicked me!” Clanner’s didn’t kick, they didn’t punch unless they REALLY had to and even then you could see they hated it, but this damn Chick had gone and deliberately charged and kicked. Greer snarled, mashing his finger down on the firing stud for his particle cannon, the blast cutting the Clanner’s ATM ‘arm’ off in a blast but the Chick kept coming as another wave of heat threatened to overwhelm the Wolfhound’s systems Greer slammed the heat override determined that heat would not kill him. “McCaffrey, get your ass over here, gonna need help, my legs shot, knee’s out, lower legs damaged and he crushed some of the coolant flow systems!” He warned properly seeing the damage done to his BattleMech this was a fight he wasn’t going to win alone he just hoped the Falcons hadn’t learned concentrated fire along with their physical attacks, so far it didn’t look like it but who the hell knew with these unpredictable Falcons. Even as McCaffrey turned to assist Greer saw the Falcon BattleMech charge in again this time firing its remaining ATMs and lasers on approach he knew what was coming as the Falcon BattleMech kicked out again at his damage leg snapping the Wolfhound’s limb above the knee. With an opponent willing to engage in physical attacks Greer had no choice but to eject and hope that the Clan warrior would not try and swat his cockpit module from the sky. He ejected he saw McCaffrey’s Hollander II blow the back out of the Jade Falcon BattleMech with his gauss rifle ending the Clansmen’s fight.
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The Falcon assault on Westerstade was deemed a success, a spoiling attack against Lyran forces that had been building up for a presumed counter-stroke against the Falcon advance and further threatened the defences around Donegal and Tharkad. The Turkina Keshik supported by the Falcon’s Nest the Falcons had hit with the intent of raiding, not conquering. The Korbin’s Kommandos Mercenary Battalion and the Lyran Militia put up a brave fight but with aerospace superiority lost to the Falcons they were corralled, cut off and ravaged. With their units damaged and supplies wrecked the Lyran counter attack was thrown into ruin and the Falcon’s withdrew as quickly as they came, only pausing to salvage their own losses, not bothering to take any of the Lyran or Mercenary Mechs with them save to make sure they were wrecked beyond reasonable repair.
Star Captain Victor Malthus saluted as Khan Jana Pryde came into the planning room. Some joked that he was an Elemental that got placed in the wrong Sibko, others said there was Jaguar blood in his veins, but no one ever said that to his face. If they did, they wouldn’t be alive for much longer. The big blond Mechwarrior was devoted to Khan Ward and was part of her Command Star despite his modest rank. Instead of seeking a higher rank, even though it would have been easy to win one, he had spent his time and energy making sure the Khan stayed alive both on the battlefield and off.
His modified Jade Hawk a yellow and deep crimson brute he called ‘Sabertooth’ did little to dissuade the whispers about his blood origin, but no one would argue with his effectiveness.
“My Khan”
“Ahh, Star Captain, I wonder if I should reprimand you.”
“Why my Khan?” He asked with false confusion.
“I had that Mech trying to flank me; once I dispatched her colleague she was next.”
“Aff, but I saw her as a threat, and you were having too much fun ripping that Atlas apart…I thought it…prudent, after all I did not want to end your sport.”
She snorted but grinned “Aff, I do enjoy the responsiveness of the Grand Summoner but I miss my Flamberge.” She said knowing fine the new heavy OmniMech was exactly what she and her Clan needed in a Mech.
“You are the Khan; you can take what ever you want.”
“Hmm… A good point Star Captain… my quarters, fifteen minutes.” Jana Pryde said smiling knowingly at the big warrior.
Star Captain Victor grinned broadly “I will consider that an order my Khan, and will see you soon and I will take the liberty of clearing your schedule... for at least the next two hours after."
"Feeling bold Star Captain?" She asked turning to walk down the corridor away from the big warrior.
"Always my Khan, I am a Falcon" he said loud enough for her and anyone else in earshot to hear Jana Pryde didn’t care if anyone else knew of their plans to couple Victor Malthus’ self confidence could only be good for her Clan’s morale.
In Transit to Jump Point
Wild Swan, Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser
Dante, Raven Alliance
23rd December 3109
Anger and excitement clashed in his head as different aspects of the mission bore into his mind. He and his Thirteenth Stoop were to be invading Morthac, but the glory wouldn’t be his alone, along with him travelled the Thirty-third Raven Battle Cluster and the Fourth Raven Guards. Both were new formations with only a smattering of true veterans though many of the rest were skimmed from the premier sibko cadets of the Alliance training facilities. By all rights and traditions the position of galaxy commander should have been his. But the khan had deemed otherwise.
The upcoming conflict would be a test of each star colonel’s metal, and he or she who was best performing would earn the rank and position of Delta’s galaxy commander. To Bran’s particular chagrin, the Star Colonel of the Fouth Raven Guards was a recent graduate of Columbia Academy on Alpheratz, and not even bloodnamed!
Each cluster had already been assigned their targets, with the Thirteenth Stoop pulling the command battalion of the Ryuken-san, the Fourth Guards targeting the second battalion of the Ryuken-san, and the Thirty-third being left the pickings of the command battalion of the Second Midway Regulars. With the greater chance at glory Bran MacTiernen was ready for battle.
HPG Transmission, Imperial Palace
New Samarkand, Tabayama Prefecture
Midway Military District, Draconis Combine
26th December 3110
“My lord Minoru Kurita, I feel the need to update you on the situation here along the Raven border,” Tai-shu Ivor Stollarude, the Warlord’s representative on New Samarkand, began nervously, pausing to gather himself.
“Speak,” the Warlord’s word was quiet but held the full weight of the leader of the Draconis Combine.
“We’ve received reports of the Ravens moving much of their forces around the occupied zone, including mobilizing most of their warship forces around the area. Akira has assumed command of the forces nearby and ordered a temporary reorganization of our warship forces. He’s currently cutting orders to ten regiments, and all ten of the nearby warships. He appears to be readying them for a counter-attack, once the Ravens have committed.”
“Hmm, the whelp is molting and showing some teeth…” Minoru Kurita muses to himself, to Ivor. “Allow Akira to spread his wings, we were never going to hold those systems anyways, we just needed them to prepare our listening posts. You will serve as his aide; you are to make sure we don’t suffer too much from the conflict. Allow the forces to meet the Ravens in battle, but order them to cede the systems to the Ravens after blooding them. Akira will learn to temper his actions. Keep me up to date on the conflict.”
“Absolutely my lord” Ivor confirms as Minoru cuts the line. ‘This will be an excellent test of the future coordinator’s strategic abilities’ Minoru thought as he turns back to the reports around the Terran corridor.
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Around the occupied zone and the area surrounding New Samarkand, Combine troops ready themselves for combat. The six regiments in the zone ready themselves to face the Ravens, and are given orders to pull back to Quantraine upon facing superior forces. While another three regiments prepare themselves to counter-attack around the Chirala salient the warship forces are split into two groups, one is sent to Quantraine to make attacks of opportunity against lone or paired Raven warships. The other bases out of New Samarkand, intended to support the operation against the Chirala Salient, and defend New Samarkand itself against potential assault.
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Additional Mercenary write ups on this thread
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=57910.new#new (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=57910.new#new)
If I've used your units I thank you
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Also end of 3109 Map
https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=1092.30#lastPost (https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=1092.30#lastPost)
WarShips and unit lists attached
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Thanks for reposting and keeping this fan-fic going, Dragon Cat!
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Finally into 3110 with a massive contribution from Vition2 it's time for the Ravens to fly.
3110
[/b]Mechbay, Second Ducal Guard
Oriente, District of Oriente
Free Worlds League
7th January 3110
“The LB-X is a better weapon” fourteen year old Javier Halas said looking over at his twin brother Ralph while the two stood facing the paired Persus OmniMechs of the Second Ducal Guard Regiment. One of the two OmniMechs was equipped with the Primary weapons configuration which featured an LB-X autocannon while the other was configured with an ultra autocannon. Neither of them should have been there but it was late and security was far more lax than it should have been, especially for the twin sons of Oriente’s leader.
“Negative, the Ultra is superior, better firing rate means more damage you can knock a BattleMech down with an ultra.” Ralph replied confidently
“The LB-X is more versatile…”
“Ooooo it’s versatile” Ralph taunted Javier had always tended to read the technical manuals before entering a simulator while Ralph jumed straight to the action. “Read that in a book? This is the real world, brother; the ultra is the future of autocannon tech.”
“If the ultra was the future why have they not introduced a bigger version of the Rotary?”
“Because Davion scientists are idiots” Ralph said the Rotary was a faster ultra but it wasn’t his favourite weapon the barrels were too small. “The ultra is the Mech killer.”
“LB-X” Javier commented again resulting in his brother pushing him by the shoulder “hey!” He shouted pushing Ralph back.
“Hey yourself little brother” Ralph said trying to wind up his brother further.
“I’ll prove the LB-X is better”
“How you going to do that?” Ralph asked rolling his eyes but his brother reached into his pocket and produced a piece of paper “I don’t want to see new numbers.” He said looking up at the two seventy-five ton Mechs in front of him in a couple of years one like it would be his.
“Why not? These numbers are the codes to unlock those Mechs.”
“Where did you swipe those from?”
“That would be telling.” He said smirking “we could take a walk onto the firing range and prove which gun is better?” Javier suggested seeing his brother wanted to but hesitated. “Com’on what have we got to lose?”
“Our pocket money and maybe personal time for life” Ralph said looking up at the pair of Persus’ “but to pilot a real Mech… no more simulators…”
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Nearly an hour later the two brothers stood aside each other on the firing line their Mechs had joined an exercising lance the firing line and were facing several targets. Javier targeted one of the placards and fired his LB-X autocannon sending a stream of slugs through the target making a neat hole near the edge of the target. Moments Ralph did the same with his OmniMech’s ultra autocannon completely peppering the target with a stream of projectiles. “More effective” Ralph commented as Javier put another accurate shot through the target Ralph targeted another of the boards and fired destroying the target with a mass of projectiles.
“What a mess” Javier said proud of his own fire aiming at another target as suddenly his Mech was rocked by laser and short range missile fire as Ralph targeted the side and back of Persus causing armour damage. “What the hell?” Javier said seeing the damage twisting his own Mech towards Ralph’s along the firing line other Mechs stopped firing in surprise. “What are you doing we’re going to get into trouble.” He said lining up his weapons with his brother’s OmniMech.
“Like we’re not already in enough trouble when father finds out com’on let’s show who is best.” Ralph said lining up his weapons with his brother’s Persus.
“We wanted to prove which weapon was best” Javier said triggering his Mech’s autocannon and long range missile launcher firing at his brother’s OmniMech “but how can you judge a weapon without the other weapons on a Mech.” Explosions blossomed over the other Persus as it took the fire Javier trying to move his Mech away but taking the full brunt of the attack.
“BOTH OF YOU STAND THE HELL DOWN!” A voice screamed into their cockpits but already the two brothers were moving and firing again an autocannon blast from Ralph’s ultra autocannon went wide tearing into a pair of parked civilian vehicles as Javier avoided another attack. The missiles and laser fire fired back at Ralph’s Persus burned armour from the OmniMech’s skin as Javier provided himself to be an able shot. “MechWarriors this is your final warning standdown…” He said but his voice was droned out as the two OmniMechs continued to trade blows. Around the firing range the practice lance began to move to engage the Persus but already the two duelling twins as a flight of long range missiles from one of the Persus missed their target flying over smashing into a nearby office building shattering windows setting the building on fire. “Four… enth lance… get… legs bri… em down.” Came a broken transmission through Ralph’s cockpit moments later autocannons, particle cannons and missiles began to fire tearing into both Persus OmniMechs. Both of the Persus were targeted by two of the Fourteenth Lance’s BattleMechs and quickly their armour was penetrated and both Persus were disabled being knocked to the ground as their legs were torn open by rapid accurate fire.
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Several hours later Duke Jonas Halas and his wife Sherryl stood outside the isolation ward at Oriente’s main medical facility looking through the glass at their two sons who were currently under guard in their beds. Both of the twins had been injured during their “joyride” with Javier suffering a broken leg and arm while while Ralph had suffered broken ribs and a heavy concussion. Currently Jonas had the entire building under guard while the Second Ducal Guard were out in force in the capital. The twin’s battle had caused the deaths of forty-two civilians, most of which were caused by the office building fire, and when it had been announced at what the cause was the population of Oriente already reeling from Capellan Confederation assaults on their system and nation.
Second Terrorist Attack
Galatea Station, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
8th January 3110
A second terrorist attack on the Galatea Station causes nearly seventy-five deaths, including the station’s commander, and damage to two of the attached DropShips as well as damage to several sections of the ship. Without the intelligence resources to investigate themselves the station calls in Lyran Intelligence Agents to assist in the investigation. Despite the misgivings of the Security Chief, and without a station commander to support further investigation, the Intelligence Agents paint a picture that the Draconis Combine was responsible for the attack which causes further heavy raids by the Isle of Skye against the Military District of Dieron.
As the month of January ended Galatea Station received a new commander Leutenant-General Bruce Sheridan, a former WarShip commander with the Lyran Navy, a Lyran patriot and a man with a known dislike of the Draconis Combine and a distrust of the Star League Defence Force.
Battlefield
Morthac, Occupied Zone
Midway Military District, Draconis Combine
9th January 3110
Bran revelled in the glory of combat facing the combined might equal to more than three times his Craven’s mass. Arrayed against him were a Panther, Grand Dragon, and a Hatamoto-Kaeru. Expertly utilizing his ‘mech’s jump jets and supercharger he made the Craven look almost like a dancer, moving out of the way of the PPC blasts, missiles and lasers intended for his OmniMech. He struck with near pinpoint accuracy targeting weak points of each of the ‘mechs he was facing slowly causing crippling damage. Regardless of his successes, by the time he had laid low both the Panther and Hatamoto-Kaeru his own ‘mech was pitted with damage showing it had been in battle, though he had managed to prevent any shots breaking through his armor.
“Star Colonel Bran MacTiernen,” a hard feminine voice came through his comms, “I require the use of two points of your aerospace fighters.”
“Hah, you interrupt my duel, and request help beyond your last bid? Your dishonor knows no bounds.” Knowing that releasing units of his own to assist in victory would only look favorably on him he connects to his bravo aerospace star, “Star Commander Venal, you and your star are being seconded to the Fourth, follow the commands of their Star Colonel.” The last two words of his command coming out as almost a curse.
Given the affirmative, Bran turned back to his duel, noting that with his mind on other things the armor on his ‘mech’s left torso now had some new holes in it. With his focus returned, he side-steps a volley of PPC and laser fire, one pulse laser splashing across his ‘mechs right chest and arm. He returned fire with a pair of heavy lasers following up with AP Gauss rounds targeted into the recently opened hole. Noting the heat spiking in the Grand Dragon he pulled back, but as the ‘mech fell the pilot fired in a last ditch effort, striking the shoulder area of the Craven with its PPC, and severing the arm.
Irritated but respecting the warrior’s desire to hurt his opponent, Bran walked his Craven over to the fallen ‘mech pointing a pair of heavy medium lasers at the cockpit. “I am Star Colonel Bran MacTiernen of Clan Snow Raven. You will surrender to me and submit to becoming a bondsman to the Snow Raven Clan or you will die in your broken BattleMec.” He said levelling the ultimatum over an open channel in response the Combine pilot turns off his targeting computer, indicating their submittal.
Elsewhere on Morthac, the Thirty-third Battle Cluster faced off against the Ryuken-san’s Second battalion, who had managed to lure them into a mine field. With only their ProtoMech and battle armor were immune, all being too small for the mines to register their activity, the Ravens were forced from the field with several of their BattleMechs left crippled as salvage to the Draconis Combine forces. During battle of particularly note, one of the ProtoMech pilots managed to down a pair of Ryuken BattleMech in single combat making many of the warrior’s superiors sit up and look at the warrior and at ProtoMechs in closer detail.
The Fourth Raven Guards Cluster was also led into a trap, though this one was due to limited intelligence. During the assault on the planet they had been charged with defeating the least of the battalions on planet, that of the Second Midway Regulars. Unbeknown to the Ravens the Regulars were bolstered by a pair of armored battalions, typically assigned to the Ryuken. The additional forces caused the Fourth’s Star Colonel Tina Harper to break her bid and call in additional forces from other Raven forces causing further tension in the Clan’s ranks. Even with the additional forces Harper struggled to contain the Draconis Combine forces and had to resort to the use of artillery and airstrikes to cut off the defenders from their supplies and support and force their surrender. Though suffering equivalent material losses as the Fifteenth Stoop, they come away with relatively massive amounts of salvage, enough to make up the losses of the rest of the galaxy. This becomes something of a theme in cadets over the next few years, as Columbia Academy graduates have a tendency to more fully utilize the differing assets they have on hand, though few of them have the requisite individual combat skill to make it above Star Captain.
Conflict Systems
Occupied Zone
Midway Military District, Draconis Combine
9th January 3110
As the Snow Raven’s expand their conflict with the Draconis Combine Gamma Galaxy’s Fifteenth Battle, Sixteenth Battle and Seventh Chasseurs clusters assault Milligan’s World, where they expected to face off against the second battalion of the Seventh Midway Regulars and half of the Ryuken-san, a unit recently rotated into the area replacing a Ghost regiment. Fortunately for the Ravens the Ryuken-san had recently been reassigned leaving only a battalion of the Seventh Midway to face the combined might of three clusters.
With a limited force to face the Ravens took the opportunity to bid among themselves for the right to annihilate the Seventh, allowing the Combine unit the time to prepare their defenses and withdrawal. The extra time serves them no worth as they face elements of the Fifteenth and Sixteenth Battle Clusters, a portion of which cuts off their retreat. Against such overwhelming odds from a superior equipped and trained force the battalion is destroyed causing little damage to the Ravens. With the planet secure the Sixteenth and Seventh clusters lift off planet to prepare for their second target, Zlatousi, leaving behind the Fifteenth Battle cluster to garrison the world.
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While the attacks struck Morthac and Milligan’s World further another attack struck the system of Rushaven as the Ravens hit the Combine from all sides. Expected to be among the most difficult systems to take, the Long Road Galaxy is prepared to meet the Third Sword of Light Regiment with a battalion of the First Midway Regulars in support. As the Ravens had expected, the battle quickly turned into a grind, with each side maneuvering to cut off portions of their opponents. Although it was seen as a stalemate, the Raven forces are slowly begin making gains as the former Alliance civilian population starts to take up arms against the Combine occupiers making it uncomfortable for the DCMS troopers. With the combination of a lack of reserves and the Ravens refusing to bombard the Sword of Light, the battle settles into a battle of attrition, which without relief for the Combine troops, the Ravens know they will eventually win.
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Corraines was expected to be the easiest of the targets in the first wave, as the Alliance knew there were cells of the old militia just waiting to help take back their world. With this in mind it was used as a testing ground to work up the experience of the three clusters to work together before they assaulted Quantraine, a significantly harder target. The attack went as expected with the First Midway Regulars requesting hegira quickly after the first engagement. It is denied but they are promised repatriation to the Combine after the conflict is finished if they surrender, nearly eighty percent of the survivors choose this option, the rest attempt a suicidal charge against the Raven forces and were quickly cut down, among these, three show bravery and skill enough to be taken as bondsmen.
HPG Compound
Ramgarh, Tabayama Prefecture
Midway Military District, Draconis Combine
17th January 3110
Having recently received orders of his own the operative had been on the lookout for a particular transmission being sent onwards to Quantraine. The routine transmission was routed through the HPG on Ramgarh, explaining the general activities of units in the District, the priority tag already assigned as the district prepared for the invasion of the Federated Suns from near the Raven border. It was simple to amend the document to include just a few extra words in a particular order.
Three days later, the operative left the compound on his normal furlough, but this time would not return to his station.
Bridge, DCS Shiro Kurita, Omi-class Carrier
Quantraine, Occupied Area
Midway Military District, Draconis Combine
18th January 3110
With recent reports indicating a full scale invasion of the occupied area, Cho-sho Shogura was pouring over reports around the area. It looked like most of the systems assaulted were already overrun, the only system where the units were holding out was in Rushaven where the Third Sword of Light was still fighting but due to the WarShips in orbit they could not escape the world. He made a note placing it at the highest priority before continuing the report, finally finishing at a security code.
“Get Captain Genji in here.” He said looking up from his desk at the aide who stood waiting for orders. A couple minutes later Genji and his aide appear at the door, prompting Shogura to immediately dismiss the aide. “We have high level orders, your code is required” he said, the two moved across to a wall safe with a digital lock and entered their codes. The safe opened to reveal three sealed, black envelopes each with a code in white. Shogura slowly read off the code as Genji confirmed it inside was a piece of paper titled: OPERATION DANTO.
Sitting down at his desk Shogura slowly read the orders his jaw takes on a set appearance as he nears the end. He looks up to Genji, hands him the orders before ordering “Set course for Quatre Belle at the highest levels of stealth, use the coordinates mentioned within the orders and prepare the jump batteries for forced recharges.”
Genji glances at the orders, his eyes going wide for a moment before steadying, “Yes sir… these are in the black, what will we do if a drive breaks down?”
“We will take all precautions but our orders are clear, the priority is the mission.” Shogura replies, had Genji known Cho-sho Shogura any worse, he would have missed the worry hidden behind his steady eyes.
From the WarShip further orders were sent to the Tenth Sword of Light to return to the planet, halting their movement towards the waiting JumpShips and WarShips. And then a few hours later in a series of flashes of light the entire demi-flotilla Shiro Kurita jumped out of the system heading to war.
Trial of Possession
Hoonaar, Expanded Region
Nova Cat’s Den
18th January 3110
As BattleMechs and DropShips wearing the crests of the Sixth Cruicis Lancers RCT of the Federated Suns descended through the atmosphere of Hoonaar the airwaves were filled with a single deep male voice. “This is Colonel David Hayditch of the Sixth Crucis Lancers RCT I declare a Trial of Possession for this world please state the forces that you will defend it with.” He said over the last fortnight the Nova Cats had invaded and captured Olindo, Sodertalke and Maram with similar tactics now the AFFS Crucis March Command on Tikonov had authorized a “proportionate response.” The Sixth Crucis Lancers RCT off Malagrotta had been directed to respond to the Nova Cat incursions with two combined-arms regiments broke off from the Regimental Combat Team and commanded to strike at Gronholt and Hoonaar.
“Our response? I am Star Colonel Samantha Rosse we will defend this world with the Twenty-first Nova Cat Roar Cluster.”
“We would prefer to limit the collateral damage done to this world. We request a suitable battle site.”
“You show us great respect today” Rosse replied “Federated Suns commander we will meet in battle in the hills of the southern continent south of our settlement there. I will warn you now that I allow this because of the respect you have shown if you deviate from this agreement at all our forces will fall on yours and destroy them.”
“We will not deviate, Star Colonel, we will meet you in battle later today and Hoonaar will become a Federated Suns holding once more.”
“We will see.”
Hours later the remains of the Twenty-first Nova Cat Roar Cluster were retreating from the planet as the victorious Federated Suns command allowed them an honourable retreat. Elsewhere on Gronholt the Sixth-fifth Nova Cat Roar Cluster had fought its own honour battle and lost to further elements of the Sixth Crucis Lancers.
The respect that the Nova Cats and the AFFS had shown each other proved to many on both sides that these trials were something that could work between a Clan nation and an Inner Sphere one without resorting to all our war. On the Draconis Combine/Nova Cat border an entirely different type of battle was being fought as Katrine Devalis’ Nova Cats invaded Gravenhage and Chapineria completely destroying the Draconis Combine’s Tenth District of Pesht Regulars Regiment in the process.
Trial of Possession
Shasta, District of Marik
Free Worlds League
22nd January 3110
The Clan Wolf Timber Wolf OmniMech fell to the ground flames tearing out of its shattered armour as the fusion engine shielding released the might of the BattleMech’s own power plant against the OmniMech. As the once mighty seventy-five ton OmniMech fell its killer a Clan Sea Fox Mad Cat II Assault BattleMech walked past firing its over should long range missiles at another target.
It had started three days before when the Wolves had arrived at Shasta and initiated a Trial of Possession. What the Wolves had not expected was the Clan Sea Fox trader unit on the planet to volunteer to assist in Shasta’s defence. Unbeknown to the Wolves when Clan Sea Fox had agreed with the Free Worlds League to build trade posts on Shasta, Ideyid and Mundrabilla they had also agreed to assist in the defence. The Wolf incursion against the planet threatened Sea Fox interests on the planet and so elements of the Thirty-fifth Cruiser Cluster had agreed to assist in the world’s defence causing much anger from the Wolf aggressors.
Despite the surprise caused by the Fox inclusion the battle was fought completely by the rules of Zellbrigen as the combined Free Worlds League/Sea Fox defenders resisted the Wolves forcing them from the world and system after a three hour Trial of Possession.
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Galatea Station, it isn't the 5th B class station is it. 8)
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Galatea Station, it isn't the 5th B class station is it. 8)
It's a meeting place for mercenaries, diplomats, spies, business men/women and criminals. It can be a dangerous place but it's the Inner Spheres best hope for a good deal
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Least avoid when the Shadows appears. Divisions i mean. >:D
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Interesting, little scamps in the FWL causing issues. And happenings on Galatea Station... all alone in the night.
Also, updated my version of the map to the beginning of 3110, let me know if I missed any of the new systems. It's back to it's normal size, so the preview is available again - still not sure why 3109 is a bigger file.
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Maybe the 3109 file has some words from the Book of Blake hidden inside by the Wobbies. }:)
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Maybe the 3109 file has some words from the Book of Blake hidden inside by the Wobbies. }:)
:) ;) ;) ;)
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Verrrry good update! Operation DANTO seems like some kind of either decapitation strike or to force the Ravens to fall back to defend and repair their vital yards which are probably some of the largest in known space outside of Gabriel and Titan.
The two young Lords having a very vigerous disagreement was well written and I hope they get more than just a boxed ear and a revoking of Chatterweb privillages.
The Raven ground forces continue to show a mixture of inexperience but gutsy bravado and its good to see Proto's getting a nod and I loved the B5 reference there at Galatea Station.
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Maybe the 3109 file has some words from the Book of Blake hidden inside by the Wobbies. }:)
I'd also would like to know what my babies are doing it's been what a few months since they where last seen? Maybe I need to put up a have you seen me poster on the interstellar milk cartons... #P
TT
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Verrrry good update! Operation DANTO seems like some kind of either decapitation strike or to force the Ravens to fall back to defend and repair their vital yards which are probably some of the largest in known space outside of Gabriel and Titan.
My suspicion as far as yards go for size starts is as follows:
Titan - 10 slips and at least 6 types of ships potentially being built there with massive numbers of support structures from the last few hundred years in various states of disrepair.
Galaxy - 8 slips and at least 6 types of ships potentially being built there, much of it is relatively new so not a lot of extraneous structures left over from previous production
New Samarkand - (7 and 6) probably beats out Midway even though it has 1 less slip, this is because of the support structures built to produce three additional types of warships (7 total) over Midway's four
After those 4, the next largest are likely the big three of the clans: Quatre Belle, New Barcella, and the Chainlane Isles. It's difficult to tell which are larger than the others as all of them have 6 slips and produce between 6 and 11 designs (depending on how you measure them). Both Quatre Belle and New Barcella have many designs based heavily on other designs - the Tetrarch is an upgraded Anna Rosse; the Swiftsure, Splendid, Spartan, Sovereign, Sceptre, and Superb are all based on the same chassis.
Alarion follows on the clanner's heels.
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wohooo... did i understand that right? the future ruler of the draconis combine send to hurt the ravens with a neat task force of warships and units? i LIKE that :) the dragon starts to roar!!
about the shipyards... i always thought the clans had more extensive yards built up in the pentagon worlds. wasnt there some huge conglomerates of stations and ship which nicolas had to reconquer? and they have to maintain 100+ warships the clans have altogether? at least HAD until revival. so your slip count seems a bit meager for the homeworld facilities... but please correct me if i have the wrong impression there...
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about the shipyards... i always thought the clans had more extensive yards built up in the pentagon worlds. wasnt there some huge conglomerates of stations and ship which nicolas had to reconquer? and they have to maintain 100+ warships the clans have altogether? at least HAD until revival. so your slip count seems a bit meager for the homeworld facilities... but please correct me if i have the wrong impression there...
What homeworld facilties? :P
The homeworlds in total had the ability to support the 300ish warships the clans had before the invasion, but some of them were in less than enviable states of repair as some clans were extremely dismissive of their naval power. But those weren't the same thing as construction yards - very few warships were built in the centuries since the exodus. And then the Society happened, the Wars of Reaving, while less devastating than in canon, still did massive amounts of infrastructure damage, among the easiest and earliest targets were shipyards. Now the society still likely maintains one or two smaller shipyards, but I doubt they are as large as the Inner Sphere ones - and we don't have much information on these ones, unlike what we have on the Inner Sphere yards.
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What homeworld facilties? :P
The homeworlds in total had the ability to support the 300ish warships the clans had before the invasion, but some of them were in less than enviable states of repair as some clans were extremely dismissive of their naval power. But those weren't the same thing as construction yards - very few warships were built in the centuries since the exodus. And then the Society happened, the Wars of Reaving, while less devastating than in canon, still did massive amounts of infrastructure damage, among the easiest and earliest targets were shipyards. Now the society still likely maintains one or two smaller shipyards, but I doubt they are as large as the Inner Sphere ones - and we don't have much information on these ones, unlike what we have on the Inner Sphere yards.
i see :) thanks for the clarification, vition2. :D i wasnt sure how much of the reaving and the society happened in the homeworlds :)
cant remember what i read here hehehe
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Vition2~
What do really need for a shipyard slip? Basically anything and everything can be built on the ground or in space via factories, all you'll need to get a ship is a slip. What I'm saying is that you can make it just by using a large enough unpressurized yard that can be built practically anywhere! All you'll need is a small dedicated habitat, and out pops your product(s).
TT
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Can I wade in? Oh wait it's my AU of course I can :D
Vition2's largely correct
The biggest shipyards in the Inner Sphere are:
Titan, Galax, New Samarkand/Midway (probably a tie between the two), Quatre Belle just ahead of Alarion, New Barcella, Chainlane Isles (all three pretty closely matched)
The most capable shipyards (ie who can build biggest ships)
Alshian, Titan, Hadrian's Command, Tukayyid, New Samarkand/Midway (again pretty much tied), Quatre Belle, Dark Nebula (last two pretty much tied too they only lag behind the others because of one or two hulls produced elsewhere.)
I don't normally do this but in the Homeworlds the Society maintain [REDACTED - Blake's will keeps many secrets - MC] ships with [REDACTED - there are truths the Inner Sphere are not ready for Blake's path is a righteous one and we will not be distracted- MC] shipyards.
TRUETANKER!!! I found your boys they are messing about with my Comms. sort them out or I will ;D
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Vition2~
What do really need for a shipyard slip? Basically anything and everything can be built on the ground or in space via factories, all you'll need to get a ship is a slip. What I'm saying is that you can make it just by using a large enough unpressurized yard that can be built practically anywhere! All you'll need is a small dedicated habitat, and out pops your product(s).
TT
Absolutely true, I based my estimates on how the BattleTech universe seems to work, not based on how it could work. The more detailed shipyards (which there really aren't that many) include a variety of additional support structures, in some of the conversations I've had with others (including some PMs with marauder and Dragon Cat) we've, more-or-less, concluded that a portion of these structures are factories building specific components for specific types of warships - engines, portions of the KF drive, chassis components, etc. Then the components are put together in the slip itself. This is more or less the reason why slip numbers were actually a secondary concern to the number of different types of vessels which could be produced at the yards.
Can I wade in? Oh wait it's my AU of course I can :D
Pfff! Whatevs... :P :P :P
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Can I wade in? Oh wait it's my AU of course I can :D
hahaha who allowed YOU into this discussion? }:) }:) }:)
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hahaha who allowed YOU into this discussion? }:) }:) }:)
Door was left open
Next update around the corner maybe tonight or tomorrow
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I got no control over what the Master woke up!
But, I do have more in the folds if needed... :)
TT
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With all this talk about shipyards, I wonder the same thing about the jumpship yards now. Specifically, which jumpship yards the the biggest, most capable, and the fastest?
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While I wouldn't say I'd track JumpShips as closely as WarShips I'd probably say in the most capable category
Titan even with the switch to build more WarShips SLDF still needs trade and transport for regiments
Alarion the Commonwealth are leaps and bounds ahead here
Chainelane Isles for the Foxes one of their most important products
Alshian the Bears look after their own
With honourable mentions for Ionus, Clipperton, Fletcher and Quatre Belle
The Ravens could easily manufacture the most but the have no need for the extra ships
Davion should have the biggest fleet but they build WarShips at their JumpShips expense
FWL yards construction are driven and supported by parliament and at Clipperton boosted by the Foxes
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While I wouldn't say I'd track JumpShips as closely as WarShips I'd probably say in the most capable category
Titan even with the switch to build more WarShips SLDF still needs trade and transport for regiments
Alarion the Commonwealth are leaps and bounds ahead here
Chainelane Isles for the Foxes one of their most important products
Alshian the Bears look after their own
With honourable mentions for Ionus, Clipperton, Fletcher and Quatre Belle
The Ravens could easily manufacture the most but the have no need for the extra ships
Davion should have the biggest fleet but they build WarShips at their JumpShips expense
FWL yards construction are driven and supported by parliament and at Clipperton boosted by the Foxes
syrtis up, running and well? and did the fedrats build up that secret jalastar base where they produce SOMETHING in regards to aerospace and those new fire javelins in your timeline, dragon cat?
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syrtis up, running and well? and did the fedrats build up that secret jalastar base where they produce SOMETHING in regards to aerospace and those new fire javelins in your timeline, dragon cat?
Well, just to point it out, this timeline includes at least 30 active Warship yards, with a total of more than 130 individual slips. So there's the limitations the canon timeline has are completely out the window.
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pfft.... limitations there are none to your imagination.
Into February 3110 - I've got a massive thanks for marauder (Dominion) and Vition2 (Raven) sections here both did a marvellous job with their contributions. And for those who think the Combine is beginning to hurt... yes they are.
Surprising as it is both marauder and Vition2 came up with these sections/ideas themselves. I have no idea if they colluded behind the scenes but they just happened to land at exactly the same time. There are reasons behind it. Originally there was a temptation to delay one section or the other but I decided to run them both at the same time.
You'll also note a lack of the SLDF being mentioned in these updates despite it being a "Clan aggression" story exactly what the SLDF was built for. That will be addressed shortly.
Vition2 has also created the Splendid variants below (which we'll hopefully share soon)
Command Complex, Imperial Palace
New Samarkand, Tabayama Prefecture
Midway Military District, Draconis Combine
2nd February 3110
Akira paced back and forth in front of the holo-table in the command center, impatiently waiting for the latest updates from the occupied zone. He was particularly anxious to find out the of the state of the Shiro Kurita demi-flotilla, which had disappeared after sending an unintelligible message. But that wasn’t the only issue bothering him; the Ravens had played their hand well, covering their assaults with heavy warship forces and without the warships of the demi-flotilla they were virtually unopposed in the occupation zone.
Intelligence reports placed a heavy star of warships covering both sides of the zone, severely curtailing potential counter assaults in those areas. Meanwhile the only force still capable of carrying out offensive maneuvers was itself under a semi-blockade, with at least three different Splendid-class warships being seen at the various jump points at different times - they’d even managed to ambush and capture a pair of JumpShips carrying support and combat DropShips to where they were needed.
“Sir, we’ve received the reports.” Tai-Sho Stollarude spoke as he entered the command room.
“And…” Akira asked, the impatience virtually dripping from his words.
“Still no word from Cho-Sho Shogura, and the Third Sword of Light’s last transmission said they were about to lose control of the HPG facility on Rushaven.” And with the loss of the HPG the command would be completely cut off and finished as a command.
“We must do something to knock the Ravens off balance, are the Ryuken-go and Second Genyosha ready to go?”
“Yes, my Lord, in particular the Second seems to relish the idea of avenging their predecessor.” Stollarude stated mentioning the elite unit which had been surrounded and overwhelmed during the last conflict with the Ravens.
“Good, send them to take Chirala, detach the Takao as an escort. Then have the Ryuken-go target Pondicherry, let them know they will also have warship support. Concentrate the rest of them on Quantraine, we’ll make it a fortress and bleed the Ravens dry if they decide to test it,” Akira ordered.
“My lord, it is my duty to point out that concentrating our forces like that makes them a very tempting target for orbital strikes. It also won’t be long before they blockade the planet, it wouldn’t take long to starve out those regiments. Not to mention while castled up on Quantraine they won’t be able to participate elsewhere, effectively being off the rolls.”
Akira waved his hand as if the points were worthless, “They’ll only have to hold out until July, with the Katsuragi’s deployment we’ll have the firepower to force our way in and withdraw our troops. Perhaps by then we’ll have another couple of regiments to pressure the Ravens with.”
With that Stollarude left to relay the orders. As he walked away he had similar concerns the heir did, how could the Ravens be so efficient and coordinated, and how can we make that ours.
Little more than a week later, the DCS Takao fought the William Adams, a Raven Whirlwind-class destroyer. The Raven WarShip put up a desperate fight against the larger Kirishima II-class Battle cruiser, but the Takao destroys the Raven WarShip handily, though the forward sections of the DCN vessel suffers significant cosmetic armour damage. On the ground the Second Genyosha faces off against Epsilon Solahma, which fights as though possessed. The Raven war machines wade into battle using tactics aggressive enough to be reminiscent of the the bloodiest medieval battles, to include using trees and even the limbs of the fallen as weapons to batter the Genyosha with. In the end the ferociousness tells on the Genyosha, with them suffering staggering casualties, but coming out on top, with the cluster being utterly annihilated.
On Pondicherry the Ryuken-go suffers a different misfortune. The Raven’s Eigth Garrison cluster quickly goes to ground, and avoids direct contact with the Ryuken. In space the DCS Okimbo, a Tatsumaki II-class destroyer takes control of the orbitals, but a pair of Raven WarShips descend on the world a few days later. The DCS Okimbo comports itself well, crippling the Bradley before it falls. Here the Ravens do not withhold orbital bombardment, causing heavy damage to the Ryuken causing the survivors to scatter through fear of further bombardment. The Bloody Talon functions as a go-between for different elements of the Raven forces on planet and coordinates ambushes. Attrition here slowly going in the Combine’s favor, regardless of Raven naval support.
Dining Room, Cameron-Jones Residence
Regulus City, Regulus
District of Regulus, Free Worlds League
5th February 3110
Life could not be greater for Lester Cameron-Jones he was Captain-General of the Free Worlds League and his District had more money coming into it than ever before, he had a beautiful loving wife and their first born daughter Anita had just joined the District of Regulas military. He moved through his home and found his wife sitting at the dining room table there was something on the table in front of her that he initially didn’t recoignize but what he did see was his wife had been crying.
“Honey what’s wrong?”
“Were you ever going to tell me the truth?” She asked before he could question she activated the holographic projector in the middle of the room. It began to play a clip that Lester hoped would never surface. It showed a pair of men dragging an elderly male’s limp body up the side of a Battlemaster BattleMech and into the cockpit before leaving the Mech. Moments later two Wasp BattleMech’s entered the courtyard and opened fire with machine guns strafing the cockpit of the BattleMech as they did charges placed on the legs and arms of the Battlemaster detonated causing enough damage to cripple the arms and legs. “My father was dead before he reached his BattleMech an order that you issued.”
“Yes I did” he admitted looking at the woman he loved more than anything else in the world.
“Why?” She asked staring at him daring him to lie.
“He would never have surrendered McKenna to you or endorsed Regulan’s annexation of the system from Oriente.” He said wondering how she’d gotten that footage and what she would do next. “I needed to ensure that Oriente and the people of McKenna accepted our rule your father was a roadblock in that path.” He said coldly Saadia looked away from him. “If I had not acted then your father would have failed his world, Oriente would have failed that entire system, Regulus was the only way to protect it.” He said trying to justify his actions. History was on his side Regulus had absorbed much of what Oriente had once controlled including the area where McKenna was situated during Oriente’s conflicts with the Capellan Confederation but his actions had caused a rift with his wife.
“And now you have accomplished everything that your family has failed to do. You are the Captain-General of a united Free Worlds League.” Saadia said standing up he knew she was not congratulating him “for the sake of our nation, of the Free Worlds League and of our children I will keep your secret.” She said angrily “but what we had before today” she said staring at him “is over.” Finally she walked past him leaving the room leaving Lester to watch what remained of the recording of his “victorious” Regulan troops seizing the citadel on McKenna. Now he desired more than anything to discover who had dug up this sixteen year old clip and who had shared it with his wife and make them pay.
Bridge, DCS Shiro Kurita, Omi-class Carrier/Quatre Belle Shipyards
Lagrange Point 2, Pluto Orbit
Quatre Belle, Raven Alliance
13th February 3110
“Sensors!” Cho-Sho Shogura ordered as they completed the transition to Quatre Belle using the coordinates located within the OPERATION DANTO orders packet. His navigation officer had calculated that the jump would leave them danger-close to the Raven’s Quatre Belle shipyards. He had the entire ship at the highest ready conditions within the Combine’s combat doctrines waiting for their emergence into the system.
“Sir, navigation’s calculations were very close, the shipyards will be within range in 32 minutes and 14 seconds at maximum combat thrust. More detailed scans are populating the area now… I’m detecting five operational warships in the area; it looks like two of their new corvettes and a trio of Splendid-class cruisers. We’ll have more details on the defenses of the yards themselves in another few minutes.” Sensors reported, reading off the descriptions the tactical computer was giving him.
“Close the distance; prepare the fighters to begin launching ten minutes out.” Shogura leans back, presenting a relaxed facade hiding the anxiety he felt over the operation. Something felt wrong, the hairs on the back of his neck stood on end moments before all the sensor-connected screens went completely white. Shooting back up ramrod straight, the anxiety clearly showing, “What happened? What’s going on?”
The sensors station didn’t respond, the three station specialists’ fingers sprinting across their keyboards. It took an agonizing seconds for one of them to speak up, voice trembling, “Sir, 90% of the external sensors have overloaded and been burnt out, the rest of the flotilla reports worse sensor damage… we’re blind.” Shogura paled at the statement in hostile territory and suddenly disaster had struck.
One of the other sensor technicians spoke up timidly, “I might have a solution.”
“Speak.”
“We ought to be able to rig up sensors on some our small craft, and route them through the C3 channels. They engineers may not be able to work under the current conditions though.” The tech suggested.
“Give the order, and reduce acceleration to 1.5 gravities. Have a third of the ASF fighters deploy now to provide overwatch until we get sensors back up. What blinded us?”
The first sensors tech spoke up again, “I can think of two options, the more likely of which is a series of massive neutron bombs. The second is much more worrisome, annihilation devices.”
Shogura paled even further at that comment. Antimatter, no one had been able to reliably weaponise such a device, that the Ravens may have advanced far enough to produce mines like these suggests far reaching and horrible possibilities. “Order the Teibo to reverse course, and set off back to the Combine with the reports, this is of highest priority.” Even if he failed here, at least the rest of the Combine would know of the possibility and be prepared.
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“Star Admiral, we just detected an emergence wave less than fifty thousand off the yards. Details are still coming in, there are a total of five ships, but one of them is massive, more than 1.5 megatons.” Star Admiral Rhai McKenna received the report as she stepped into the command room in the Quatre Belle shipyards, wiping sleep from her eyes. Rhai’s career had started out strong, having become star captain of the Swiftsure-class’ premier warship of its class before she was twenty-five. But since the last Combine-Raven war and the destruction of her ship, her star had waned, leading her to the command chair of the shipyards. Shortly after the loss of the Sword of Orion she challenged and defeated Adam McCorkell, and in the year and a half since, she had funneled resources to various special projects - the Khan didn’t care, as long as the WarShips were completed on schedule.
“Show me where the mines are” as the display lit up she began running the projected trajectory the interlopers, now known to be Combine warships, including an Omi Kurita-class carrier. “They are going to travel directly through the minefield. Prepare to detonate them when they will have the greatest effect.” She let her staff determine the specifics; they were more knowledgeable about the capabilities of one of her projects. She did not see much use for these in typical combat situations, but they were lucky today, unfortunately the mines were untested.
Noting the Sceptre moving towards an intercept, she commanded them, “Star Captain Gerry, cease maneuvers, you may intercept after the mines detonate.” As an afterthought she added, “You may want to step down your sensors.”
A short time later a score of blasts lit up her screen, small expanding areas remaining cloudy and diminishing the ability for the station to collect details, but the Combine fleet quickly travelled through them, the smallest of them splitting off from the others as the Sceptre begins moving towards the enemy. As it became clear the Combine flotilla was not stopping, an idea occurred to her, and she walked out of the command station.
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“The first pair of modified small craft are launching now.” Navigation reported, “they should be deploying external naval C3 in another 30 seconds.”
Cho-sho Shogura waited on anxiously, but outwardly calm as the information feed began showing on the screens. The data was grainy, and not entirely consistent, but it would serve for today’s purpose, the flotilla still had a much heavier amount of firepower than the Raven Force. As the screen continued to populate the area it quickly noted single massive object hurtling through the void directly towards the flotilla, travelling at more than 55 km/s, and less than a minute from the flotilla.
“Weapons! Get a lock on that object, it must be one of their Splendids, and find me the others!”
“We’re not going to get a hard lock, we don’t have enough C3 small craft active nor in position yet. A soft firing solution is all I’ll be able to manage.” The weapons officer reported, his fingers flying across the screen attempting to narrow down the firing solution.
“Do what you can, and put a flight of bombers in front of it, order them to open up with everything they have across her path.”
With little more he could do but watch the WarShip’s pass and respond to its damage, Shogura leaned back into his command chair, forcing himself to relax. His eyes remained steady on the screen, he noted the DCS Susanoo, his Kirishima II-class battlecruiser, move to an intercept position, placing itself between the DCS Shiro Kurita and the incoming warship. Shogura made a note to recommend Captain Dougan for the Bushido Blade for his courage.
The Raven warship continued, laying down fire as it drew within engagement range, the Combine warships returning fire. With the DCS Susanoo covering the DCS Shiro Kurita, he was sure the carrier would suffer minimal damage. Four streams of naval autocannon fire and more than a dozen smaller weapons were released from the Raven warship, two of the larger cannons went wide, missing the DCS Susanoo and DCS Shiro Kurita entirely, but the others bore down directly on the Kirishima II. One stream of fire striking through the ventral portion of the engines section of the warship, the other striking just above the bridge the second stream of cannon fire continued on into the carrier, mauling its port side opening several sections to space before internal doors closed. The drive plume of the DCS Susanoo wavered, before flickering out, though power continued throughout most of the warship and the vessel was able to counter attack against the Raven vessel causing damage to the speeding vessel.
Aboard the WarShip damage and warning lights flared throughout the bridge, reports were coming in about hull breaches in a number of sites along the port side. More importantly it looked as if one of the autocannon shells had detonated directly inside one of the hangers, it was entirely unusable and most of the fighters and small craft had been turned to scrap.
Sensors spoke up, “Sir, I hate to layer on the bad news but our small craft sensor net is up.”
“How is that bad news?” Shogura asked as he glanced away from the damage reports and back to the sensor displays. A trio of warships moved towards them, in a triangle formation, the exact size and masses of them were unidentifiable as around them a virtual cloud of aerospace fighters and small craft surrounded them. A fourth warship hung well behind and above, staying near the station.
With as many small craft and aerospace fighters in space as his own when it was fully functional, he realized what he got wrong, “They’re not Splendids, it’s the new classes we’ve received reports on, the one hanging back is the carrier sub-class, the one that just passed us must have been a Sceptre sub-class, that leaves the last as either their cruiser sub-class or the battle carrier. We will need to be careful; their capabilities are unknown as yet.”
“I know how careful we have to be” Shogura snapped back this mission had gone from bad to worse in the space of minutes if the Susanoo could not regain power to its engines then he would be losing at least the battle-cruiser in this fight.
With the small craft sensor net up Shogura ordered the remaining flotilla to remain at ballistic speeds, keeping the DCS Susanoo in formation. Even damaged his force should still be able to defeat the pair of corvettes and cruisers, at which point a massive volley of missiles would overwhelm the defenses of the station - and if the DCS Susanoo could get its engines fully back on line they’d definitely outgun the Ravens and chase down their enemies.
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As the two flotillas closed on each other, the DCS Shiro Kurita slowly fell behind the other vessels, allowing DCS Asuma and DCS Battle of Alshain to take the vanguard, supported by the damaged DCS Susanoo and Dragon’s aerospace fighters with a small number of LAMs and combat DropShips. With the forces coming together, the space between the warships becomes a complete fur ball, with ASF and small craft dodging everywhere and firing every kind of weapon at their disposal. Into this struggle the Kite and Unkindness waded, opening fire against dropships, fighters and small craft with abandon. The Raven DropShips strangely holding back with the Superb as it continues slowly forward.
With the entrance of the two Raven Corvettes the fur ball is quickly turning in favor of the Ravens, as the combat DropShips are quickly destroyed. The DCS Susanoo, still unable to maneuver, lays fire into the Unkindness causing heavy damage to the smaller vessel. It spins attempting to present a new broadside but a lance of Draconis fighters manage to put a couple of missiles into the holes in its hull one of which explodes directly below the bridge.
Noting the fragile condition of the DCS Susanoo, a star of Raven fighters line up missile shots against it, with its anti-missile system down all the missiles hit, finally destroying the power grid within the battlecruiser. With the heavy warship down and the DCS Asuma joining the fray, the Raven DropShips scattered their overlapping ECM shadow diminishing to show a massive battleship. The Arbitration-class battleship Dauntless lumbered forward seeking out the remaining three Combine WarShips. The arrival of the DropShips had swung the fur ball strongly in the Raven’s favor, while the addition of the battleship, Cho-sho Shogura gave the order to do as much damage as possible accepting that this was a fight they could not win.
The remaining combine aerospace fighters turn away from their opponents and begin to drive straight towards the Raven warships. Their singular focus sees many of them shot down before reaching their targets, but quite a few still manage to reach the Raven WarShips. The couple which manage to strike the Dauntless tear off chunks of armor much larger than they should have, the incomplete warship showing some weakness, but continuing on.
Meanwhile the DCS Battle of Alshain maneuvered above the battle and accelerated directly towards the shipyards. The Snow Raven vessel Superb attempts an intercept but is barely able to rake the Combine vessel with extreme range fire before it is out of range. As the Kyushu-class warship continues to near the shipyards, a huge number of capital-scale missiles rise from the station, firing as quickly as they can be reloaded.
The Dauntless with the last operable Unkindness-class corvette move on to strike at the DCS Omi Kurita and DCS Asuma, with the still large number of supporting fighters, DropShips, and small craft, they don’t stand much chance. Though only half of its armaments have been emplaced the Dauntless still has more than enough firepower to decimate the destroyer, leaving the carrier and battleship to pound at each other. The supporting DropShips, though low on munitions at this point target weapons on the hull of the DCS Shiro Kurita as the two massive ships traded blows. As the outcome seems inevitable Cho-sho Shogura overloaded the fusion reactors, ordering the crew to leave in escape pods. The spike in power causes the Raven WarShips to pull back, as the carrier explodes.
The DCS Battle of Alshain seeing the waves of death coming at it continues to maneuver, and releases its last flight of fighters with another companies worth of LAMs, the last in its bays. As they close on the shipyards additional defenses light up, striking down four of the LAMs leaving the eight remaining LAMs to charge down on the facilities below. As they close additional defences light up knocking out half of the LAMs before they can reach their targets. Those that do drop bomb loads of munitions onto the shipyards before converting into their BattleMech modes and opening fire on the shipyard slips causing heavy damage to two of the slips before being brought down by the fixed defences and Snow Raven aerospace forces. In the confusion caused by the LAM attack both the DCS Teibo and DCS Battle of Alshain manage to escape the system.
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Reading through his own damage reports, Star Captain Gerry Harper pondered the amount of damage his ship could have inflicted on the Dragon’s flotilla had his high-velocity tracking arrays been working properly - the primary issue forcing his Sceptre to stay behind. “The Dragon showed its teeth today” he remarked “we can reclaim worlds but they show what they are capable of with this attack.”
Research and Development
Beta VII, Sea Fox Territory
Occupation Zones
14th February 3110
In the heart of the Clan Sea Fox Occupation Zone sibkos of Fowler Bloodhouse Warriors were being trained not as aerospace fighter pilots, like generations before had been, but instead as the next generation pilots of ProtoMech which would serve the Clan. Alongside them the Foxes had created a new Exclusive ProtoMech Bloodname the “Cook” bloodline while warriors would be able to train as aerospace pilots if they wished their future was aligned towards ProtoMechs.
The Sea Foxes also continued construction of a new type of ProtoMech, the Arion, a unit that appears to look like the Shadow Hawk BattleMech but weighs only fifteen tons. The Arion is armed with an arm mounted small pulse laser, a ProtoMech sized autocannon and a triple tube long range missile launcher giving it reasonable firepower for a unit its size. The Sea Foxes plan use the ProtoMech in their own forces and to sell it to any of the other Clans who wish it.
Border Conflict
Clan Borders
Lyran Commonwealth
22nd February 3110
While Clan Jade Falcon continues to raid their shared border with the Lyran Commonwealth. The Isle of Skye opens up a second front by attacking Clan Wolf’s territory in the Gacrux system with the Second Isle of Skye Guards RCT and the LCS Glasgow in support. Unfortunately the Wolf vessel Razor’s Teeth was in position near the system’s nadir point and it was more than a match for the Corvette.
With its superior weapons array the Razor’s Teeth quickly overwhelms the LCS Glasgow and causes heavy damage to two of the Skye Guards JumpShips before they can escape the system. The Skye Guards DropShips attempt to run towards the planet past the Dire Wolf-class Heavy Cruiser and are torn to pieces by the naval weapons of the Wolf WarShip.
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Funeral service
Rasalhague City, Rasalhague
Rasalhague District, Rasalhague Dominion
28th February 3110
The streets of Rasalhague City were lined with silent crowds, the flag of the Dominion hanging from the street lamps was half shrouded in black cloth whilst overhead the contrails of patrolling Aerospace fighters could be seen. The crowds were thickest at the road leading to the Blood Chapel, the Khan and Prince’s final resting place.
At midday, the funeral started. For those who still clung to the ways of the Clans, this was in essence a waste of time, but the Civilians had demanded it, as had the Royal Family, this would happen. Not some quiet ceremony, but a show of unity, even in the face of adversity.
A quartet of four Kodiak’s moved slowly down the main walkway towards the Blood Chapel, all four machines painted a matt black, fitted with an array of dampening baffles and very highly tuned actuators to reduce their footfalls to gentle thumps, whilst giving their pilots extreme control and precision. In their midst was the final member of their ‘Star’, a large hearse which also carried the Prince’s immediate family.
Soldiers and Warriors of the Dominion snapped to attention as the precession approached and then the drums started. At first it was just a single drummer, beating out the slow funeral march of the four Kodiak’s escorting the Hearse. Every fifty metres, on both sides of the procession and dressed in full dress uniform, a drummer stood at attention and added to the slowly swelling rumble that echoed over the silent procession. The slow, sonorous beat echoed off the buildings, filling the air like the slow heartbeat of a great beast or Rasalhague herself as Khan and Prince Ragnar Magnusson was interred in the great and sombre Blood Chapel.
Some civilians cried, others threw flowers whilst ranks of Warriors slammed their boots together, coming to attention and saluting as one. Whilst mourners would not be allowed inside, they could approach the chapel and leave flowers or mementoes outside.
The entire funeral was broadcast across the Dominion and select guests were invited to attend. It was also decreed that the Dominion’s flag would fly at half-mast for a week until the new Prince was crowned and a new Khan and SaKhan elected. To many of the Clan citizens it was a strange procedure to the native Rasalhagans thought it was only fitting.
With the death of so many Bloodnamed there was a flurry of Trials of Bloodright as well as hurried promotions as the Dominion tried to rebuild its near decapitated military. Star Admiral Albert Tseng oversaw the Trials and reshuffling as young Warriors skipped several ranks.
The bombing had the added effect of killing many of the more experienced warriors, three Galaxy Commanders, were dead, a dozen Star Colonels and many lower ranks had been killed or badly injured in the blast, the source of which was still being investigated.
Whilst the public was angry at the loss of the Prince, the military was furious and was a serious effort to constrain the anger of those not at the blast to not lash out. The Watch was heavily involved, scouring the blast site, watching the recordings of the explosion, trying to piece together what happened and what had occurred with Josh Snuka to see just what had happened. His quarters were off limits to all but a few personnel under penalty of death without Trial and the Watch was going over Josh Snuka’s belongings with a fine-toothed comb.
Now the Dominion had many ex Star Captains and Colonels being promoted up the ranks whilst Trials were placed for their former ranks as the Dominion sought to re-establish order in its sundered chain of Command.
A state of alert was issued and entire Tourman was on 6 hours-notice to deploy and move. The Solhama units and PGC’s were also put on high alert with newer Mech’s being issue from the war stockpiles of New Oslo and Bergen, whilst every visiting dropship was halted and boarded before being granted permission to dock or land.
Of course this had a knock-on effect with the economy and the Kroner fell sharply in value due to the slowing of trade. The flood of refugees continued to stream in though from Vega and there were several sharp skirmishes in space between Dominion pickets and Combine dropships detached from DCMS JumpShips that had chased after refugees although the arrival of the Leviathan quickly put an end to any ‘rogue elements’ chasing refugees into Dominion space.
When the Dominion didn’t turn away the refugees fleeing the Vega Prefecture it seemed to open the floodgates as independent Jump and DropShip Captains scented profits to be made from the masses that just wanted to escape the growing chaos and unrest.
Whilst many Captains charged reasonable fees, some took all they could get with the fee for a ‘berth’ on some DropShips, usually just a space on the deck of an empty cargo bay, being ‘what do you have?’ But these Captains tended not to last long, one was killed by an angry crowd and another was replaced in a bloodless mutiny, still unscrupulous Captains exploited the desperate on more remote worlds.
The Dominion, for its part was caught without any preparation for the sudden surge of refugees that now poured across the borders. With the attack on the Bloodnamed there was serious concerns that hostile agents might be hiding with the civilians in an attempt to insert themselves into the Dominion and ferment discontent.
To counter this the Refugees were routed to Toffen and Pulkhua, both of little strategic value and with small populations. Here the refugees would be sheltered, fed and checked for any sign of infiltration. Whilst the camps were established but the number of refugees soon made these camps crowded whilst straining the resources being brought into them.
Toffen – Time 13:30 local
“And you’re live in three, two……”
“This is Kristen Yansdottir reporting for DNN from one of many refugee camps on Toffen that have been constructed to house civilians fleeing the chaos in the Vega Prefecture.”
The reporter for DNN (Dominion News Network) was dressed in what could be called field fatigues as she walked through the Camp. The buildings were simple prefabricated ones made of tough plastics that kept the worst of any cold out whilst letting air flow through them. There were tents set up that would serve as large communal eating areas as well as showers and toilet facilities. The area was swarming with civilians, young, old, man and woman, mostly speaking Japanese and shying away when the cameras turned on them.
“As you can see this Camp is nearly full and it one of several on Toffen. Elements of the local constabulary, many equipped with Constable Pacification Suits, have been brought in to make sure that there is no trouble in the camp whilst local administrators are trying to find quarters for everyone and keep families together. I managed to speak with the head administrator of the Camp earlier today.”
The image changed to a rather spartan office, a man somewhere in his thirties sat behind a desk heaped with reports and data pads.
“Administrator Burke what would you say the main challenges here are?”
“At the moment our main problems are getting enough shelters built, whilst Toffen is temperate and we have not had much rain, the rains are coming. The inhabitants of Goodwood City have also been kind enough to hold collections of food and blankets to be given over and I had the pleasure of seeing one of our Elementals hauling a big bag full of cuddly toys for the children here.”
The scene shifted to the outside of the Camp, it was surrounded by forests and there were no obvious fences, just a large ditch surrounding the camp.
“We were also able to speak with several Combine refugees, but at their own request we have had to conceal their faces and voices out of fear of ISF reprisal against family members still in the Combine.”
The camera view shifted to a darkened room with a figure with a blacked out face, although the person’s build was definitely feminine.
[Kristen Yansdottir] And how are you finding the facilities here?
[Kuritan Refugee] I will be honest, it is not home, but… our home is gone.
[KY] What happened to your home?
[KR] My husband was in the DCMS and when the bombs went off and food started becoming sparse the local commander, my husband’s commander ordered that food be given over to the soldiers by the Civilians as was our duty. But they wanted more and….not just food…
[KY] I… see… and what of your husband?
[KR] He disagreed with what his commander was doing and was punished for it. I and my children had to flee as I knew they would come for me next. But… my eldest… he was caught in a sweep and… recruited. I…I don’t know if he’s… I pray for his safety every day.
[KY] And you say conditions here are not good?
[KR] As the Clanners say neg, but they are not bad. Some young men tried to take more than their share, or asked for ‘favours’ off people in return for food. I had the pleasure of watching some Dominion security troopers beat the crap out of them before executing the ringleader. Since then no-one’s tried to take more than they should.
[KY] And do you want to return to the Combine after this is brought under control?”
[KR] …I …I have put much thought into it, but… I fled, my husband was executed my eldest taken to serve… no… there is nothing for me there. I just hope there is something here for my children hope is all I have left.
“At this point we had to leave our interview as our time was up but it does paint a picture of what life is like here, and what life was like in Vega. And now, back to Erik back in the studio.”
Outer System
New Samarkand, Tabayama Prefecture
Midway Military District, Draconis Combine
28th February 3110
In a flash of light a solitary WarShip appears roughly 20 AU from the capital of the Draconis Combine. The vessel does not move from its position instead it sits and watches the system a vengeful eye preparing for its moment.
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Blimey! Superb update, I must admit I was like O_O when I saw antimatter mentioned but then I remembered that an annihilation process would produce a huge burst of radiation which would be a nice scrambler of sensors. The Combine's taking a real pounding, but they are too damn proud to back down.
Great big naval battle too, heavy losses and now I wonder what the Ravens are doing if they have an eye on the Combines capital. The worlds too strongly defended to take so I'd assume a raid to hit the facilities and orbital factories, and do what the Combine tried to do to them.
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Surprising as it is both marauder and Vition2 came up with these sections/ideas themselves. I have no idea if they colluded behind the scenes but they just happened to land at exactly the same time. There are reasons behind it. Originally there was a temptation to delay one section or the other but I decided to run them both at the same time.
No collusion, I SWEARS IT! ;D
Slightly more seriously, I think marauder mentioned something about having an idea for the Dominion sometime late last year, but I actually didn't remember that until you brought this up, lol.
Looking forward to seeing what comes of the Dominion stuff and more politics in the FWL.
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And yes, no collusion, I think I MAY have mentioned it in passing whilst discussing something else but that was all :)
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What an update. DC things are really hotting up.
Now I am intrigued about who warship is just sitting there in New Samarkand.
What evil are you up to. O0
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hhmmm... after repelling the massive attack from the combine (and "winning" the fight overall and bloodening the taks force) wouldnt it strategically be viable to strike back at a strong target. a yard or a district capital?
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Very big turmoil going on with these last couple updates. LORDY.
Good stuff.
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hhmmm... after repelling the massive attack from the combine (and "winning" the fight overall and bloodening the taks force) wouldnt it strategically be viable to strike back at a strong target. a yard or a district capital?
Yes, it would be... but I don't see the Ravens sending in just one ship to observe from afar. Seems like there's another player...
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The next update will be a few days away at least I'm working more than a little
As for the Combine/Raven and Combine/Dominion storylines credit belongs to marauder and Vition I've said this many times but this AU would be nowhere near as good without external contributions I've been very lucky with the help I've had.
The most I've done with either story is prod the writers in the right directions, clean it up and add anything I've really wanted both marauder and Vition conceived and executed these storylines
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Blimey! Superb update, I must admit I was like O_O when I saw antimatter mentioned but then I remembered that an annihilation process would produce a huge burst of radiation which would be a nice scrambler of sensors. The Combine's taking a real pounding, but they are too damn proud to back down.
Great big naval battle too, heavy losses and now I wonder what the Ravens are doing if they have an eye on the Combines capital. The worlds too strongly defended to take so I'd assume a raid to hit the facilities and orbital factories, and do what the Combine tried to do to them.
I meant to reply to this comment earlier, but I left what the "blinding" bombs actually were up to Dragon Cat, so I don't even know what was used. ;D
As for the battle itself, I did a LOT of calculations to determine what happened where, eventually tossing most of it out as extraneous - at one point I had calculated where exactly the Combine would meet the Ravens given each of their acceleration profiles. As a side note I also did a lot of other calculations to determine the actual forces the Ravens could end up using - with Dragon Cat's permission I might be able to share the notes made for the entire war (at least the originals).
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Outer System
New Samarkand, Tabayama Prefecture
Midway Military District, Draconis Combine
28th February 3110
In a flash of light a solitary WarShip appears roughly 20 AU from the capital of the Draconis Combine. The vessel does not move from its position instead it sits and watches the system a vengeful eye preparing for its moment.
Slowly I turn...
So is it Raven coming to visit, or maybe the same people who just hit the Dominion (my guess Wobbie)
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I don't know anything... but I have an idea worth not sharing!
TT
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And now March. I have a feeling that one scene may gain some attention in this update but it's long overdue and maybe points in a direction of the future. I hope it doesn't overshadow the great work from James Tanaga (right at the start) and from Vition2 (with the conclusion of the Raven/Combine story-arc) I am very appreciative of the continued support these co-writers provide.
I'd also like o introduce the Craven OmniMech designed by Vition2 (with a little help)
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=58228.0 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=58228.0)
And I'll announce now that the Sceptre and other variants of the Splendid-class (all designed by Vition2) will be arriving soon.
My continued thanks for the support this timeline (my little obsession) gains, please enjoy
President’s House
Gillfillan’s Gold, Rim Collection
Periphery
4th March 3110
President Damien Redburn smiled broadly as he watched Brienne and Natasha Faraday of the Mandrills slowly dance, his wife holding onto his arm. It was their wedding. While Natasha wore a pristine dark green and red camouflage uniform of the Rim Collection Touman, complete with the dark red beret of Clan Fire Mandrill, Brienne wore a simple, yet beautiful, white sleeveless wedding gown. He couldn’t have been happier.
While he acknowledged and respected both married for love, he well knew their marriage had the added bonus of being a political match as well, serving to unite Clan Fire Mandrill and the Rim Collection ever closer. One that he knew would be needed more sooner than he originally thought, what with was happening in the galactic south of the Rim Collection in the days preceding the wedding.
Pirate attacks had long plagued Erdvynn Province and the Lyran Commonwealth worlds to the galactic south, but the threats they collectively poised was negligible until recently. Intelligence suggested a so-called Pirate King had rallied the pirates a year or so ago under his banner, but was scarce on how that was possible.
Until last week.
Last week saw the pirates under the mysterious Pirate King strike multiple Lyran worlds, destroying militia units left and right, and going so far as to taking the so-called Zeta Sisters south of Erdvynn Province for their own. He did not know what the Pirate King had planned, but he had become a serious threat, both to the Lyran Commonwealth and to his own Collection, that much Redburn did know.
But he refused to let said threat get to him, especially on Brienne’s wedding night tonight was a night to celebrate and tomorrow with a time to plan and to worry for the future.
Triage Center, Kerry Hospital
New Belfast, Milligan’s World
Raven Alliance
5th March 3110
Head MedTech Saban entered the triage center shortly after receiving a report from the largest hospital on Milligan’s world, there were a series of medical issues that the hospital was not prepared to deal with. The waiting room had been full, with multiple individuals showing symptoms he was very familiar with and that that alone made him worry.
“You’re here, finally” a harried-looking doctor sighed.
“Give me the details.”
“We received our first case two days ago, and since have begun receiving more and more, at the rate they seem to be coming in, we’re going to run out of room in another few hours. They are showing signs of radiation poisoning and at levels higher than what should be rendering them immobile. Instead they seem to go into a period of high activity, bordering on mania - going to a gym for three hours of intense sessions, marathon runs, etc. - before finally collapsing in exhaustion. We’ve put them through the standard radiation treatments, but it only seems to increase the radiation levels in their blood. I’m at a loss, and we are rapidly running out of room.”
Noting the listed symptoms, Saban recognized what they might be dealing with, and if so, then it is possible the entire population of the planet was already in jeopardy. He turned aside speaking quickly and quietly into his wrist-communicator, before turning back. “If what I presume is correct, this is an extraordinarily ancient weapon, from the Age of War. A virus transmitted via fluid which prevents the egestion of radiation until the cells it reproduces in burst. At the time it was responsible for a number of planets being nearly entirely depopulated.” As Saban spoke a series of thuds sounded outside the door. A pair of elementals in full battle armor entered and Saban gestured towards the doctor “unfortunately, those in the lobby are already dead, the virus has populated beyond what treatments can deal with.” The troopers grabbed the doctor as Saban continues, “you, on the other hand, will survive, but we need to determine the proper treatments, as whoever did this may have changed it. You and the other medtechs, nurses, and specialists in this section will be used to determine the proper procedures. You will not enjoy it, but you and your co-workers will survive.” He said as the Elementals dragged him and other staff from the facility before reentering the facility to ‘cleanse’ it.
Shortly thereafter the Fifteenth Battle Cluster sent battle armored and ProtoMech forces to central water distribution sites for each city which had reported the radiation sickness, to include at least one, if not more, medical and radiation-specialized R-teams. As the Ravens attempt to discover what had caused the problems large conventional explosives destroy each of the sites and all of the forces sent to investigate them. At the nearly same time a large force of Draconis troops assault the positions of the remaining Raven forces, devastating them, by the time the initial assault is over, there is less than a binary of the Fifteenth left throughout the world.
In space, the Sixteenth Battle and Seventh Chasseurs stop their preparations for the next attack target and return to the planet as quickly as possible. Arriving two days after the incident they link up with a variety of civilian militias and the remains of the Fifteenth, which is folded into the Sixteenth. The Ravens then begin to annihilate the insurgent forces. At first they seem to have success, but each time they destroy a cell, it seems as though another one pops up somewhere else leading from one bloody battle to the next.
In the last days of March a quartet of SLDF WarShips led by the SLS Shining Claw and the SLS Enterprise escorting a half-dozen Invader and Star Lord-class JumpShips arrive in the outer system. After a short exchange of messages with the Ravens, four of the WarShips and a score of DropShips begin to travel towards Milligan’s World. While tensions between them and the Ravens remain tense, they provide aid to the stricken world’s population - combined the Ravens and the SLDF manage to fully contain the outbreak and immunize the population. How the SLDF discovered the issues on Milligan’s World so quickly is unknown to the Ravens but their willingness to work with the Clansmen to help the civilians of the world gains the SLDF much respect from the Snow Ravens. The power of the four SLDF WarShips and their fighters stop the Ravens immediately attacking the SLDF units.
Kalifie Firing Range
Taurus, Hyades Cluster
Taurian Concordat
7th March 3110
In her first outing in her mother’s Shadow Hawk IIC Nickola Calderon had successfully destroyed six target vehicles with her BattleMech’s mix of pulse lasers and short range missile systems. In the test she had shown that she had inherited her mother’s flare for piloting and BattleMech combat, although in this case she had fought against unarmed target drones and not enemies fighting back meaning the test was an incomplete one.
Standing in the BattleMech bay awaiting his daughter Protector Erik Marten-Calderon watched as the BattleMech reentered its bay and powered down. Seeing the Shadow Hawk IIC again in action had brought back fond memories of his wife Sonja Rosse. He watched as Nickola stepped out of the BattleMech’s cockpit and onto the gantry a few months from her sixteenth birthday she was just like her mother with long dark hair and an athletic frame. He saw she wore shorts and a t-shirt under her coolant vest and carried her neuralhelmet as the lift lowered her from the gantry to the ground and she walked towards her father. “You did well” he said as she hugged him “a little different than the simulator?”
“Thanks” she said breaking off the hug “not quite the real thing but I can see why MechWarriors love those things so much.” She said walking alongside her father towards the changing room “the power and grace… it’s addictive and the adrenaline is intoxicating.”
“The less you talk about intoxication the better” she said winking towards her “just remember that does not need to be your life.” He said turning and pointing at the Shadow Hawk “you need to be more than just another MechWarrior.”
“I know dad” she said standing on her tip toes to kiss him on the cheek “which is why I’m going for a shower then going to Anna’s to study, see you!” She said rushing off towards the MechWarrior changing areas. Erik turned around and looked up at the Shadow Hawk IIC one last time glancing up at the roof smiling briefly in memory of his late wife before heading out of the MechBay.
Private Booth, The Golden Wonder
Haublan, Spire
Chainlane Isles, Sea Fox Territory
10th March 3110
Michael Drummond was a thirty-two years old, average build, with dark hair and was not particularly tall. He could walk down any street in the Inner Sphere or Periphery and would blend in which was perfect for his duties. He entered The Golden Wonder, a non-descript traditional public house on the Chainlane Isle world of Haublan and moved through the quiet bar joining another man who waited for him. The two didn’t say much until a waitress arrived to take their order then again they waited in near silence until their food arrived. It was after they had their food of steaming food in front of them and they were sure that there would be no further interruptions did they actually begin to speak.
“A good plate of food, Alexander” Drummond noted cutting into his chicken which was covered with barbecue sauce, cheese with sides of bacon vegetables and fries.
“The Golden Wonder is one of the better places on this world even since the Sea Foxes took control.” Alexander Coolage said cutting into his own steak.
“I did not see much of their presence” Drummond said continuing to eat.
“Neg, Precentor-Emperious, they allow the people to live by their own rules only controlling the main military forces and certain factories.” Collage said quietly using Drummond’s rank to show he knew exactly who Michael Drummond was.
“I saw what looked like locals with weapons?”
“Local militias have vehicles and small arms under their control. The Foxes control the BattleMechs, Battle Armour and aerospace forces.” Collage said
“And what of the Whispers?”
“They remain hidden from view after the debacle on Granada they are repairing as best they can. The Foxes see much of what goes on here but I have been able to route some resources to them but there only a little we can do here.”
“This conflict will not be won with weapons of war. It must be won by ideas all of your people must know this.” Drummond said quietly “we had a finger or two in the Steiner-Kurita conflict; we have brought down Vega and helped maim the Bears.” He said quiet content with their successes.
“The Whispers sacrifice proved that the Clan Homeworlds are not somewhere we will gain support. There is a conflict which continues there which makes all of those in the Inner Sphere pale in comparison.”
“I read the reports. Perhaps it is something we can use against the Clans.” Drummond suggested “continue to suggest that there are enemies within their individual ranks.” He said “we cannot win with numbers alone even if we still held Terra and the hidden we could not overpower all of the Succession States and Clans.” Drummond said “at present their armies and navies are growing at an unprecedented rate we must use these armies and turn them against each other.”
“I have the support of much of the militias in the Chanelane Isles if they are required…” he began before stopping as the waitress arrived and removed some of their plates and placed down two local ales.
“If we need those militia forces the Isles will be lost. No, the information that you get from the Foxes will help us more in the long run.”
“Aff, I understand Precentor-Emperious” he said in a near whisper Drummond was worried about his second use of the Clan “aff” but remained silent “we have learned that the Sea Foxes have been in communication with the Stone Spirits and Fire Mandrills they almost seem to be acting like glue that holds the Clan factions together in this region.” He explained “they do not accept either faction’s position and would not be subservient to anyone.”
“They appear to be willing to work with the locals here and in the Free Worlds League.”
“Only if it benefits them.”
“So they would not be open to further communication with us?”
“Negative” Coolage suggested “in fact I believe they would be openly hostile against us if it were revealed who we represented.”
“Aff as far as the Inner Sphere is concerned the Word of Blake is dead. It must remain that way for now. And have you heard anything further on the Erinyes?”
“I do not believe it is in this area any longer. When it did raid Chainlane Isles worlds the crew refused my attempts at communications with them.”
“They remain at large.” Drummond noted “rogues within rogues. Perhaps they can cause trouble elsewhere without our guidance.” He said drinking some of the ale which was thick but not overpowering.
“And Interstellar Expeditions?” Collage asked choosing now to try and learn a few things from his superior.
“Their projects in the Marian Hegemony continue to bore fruit. And their report that Mayadi is a dead world continues to circulate around the Inner Sphere no-one visits and those that do die quickly and quietly.”
“Good my family remain there.”
“You should return to see them soon” Drummond said politely knowing that there was little to no chance of such an occurrence happening. “We need to ensure that the Federated Suns turn their attention away from the Benjamin area less traffic in the area would add to our security.”
“Perhaps the Combine could be persuaded to push on towards Robinson?”
“With their fighting against the Bears, Isle of Skye and Ravens, I doubt they have the resources to pursue such a fight.”
“The Ravens or Nova Cats then?”
“The Ravens appear to be more inclined in attacking New Samarkand than the Federated Suns while the Nova Cats appear to follow their own path and have no real desire for conquest.”
“Then perhaps we make Benjamin a more tempting target we build up the worlds around Benjamin as being tempting targets which would take their attention completely off Mayadi and perhaps we fortify the system with nuclear weapons?” Coolage suggested
“We have plenty defences for the system if anyone comes to Mayadi they will regret it a hundred times over.”
Drummond promised the other man as they finished their first ales. “Making Benjamin a target could be exactly what we need bringing the Federated Suns so deep into the Combine would exaust their forces and it could be the push that Dieron needs that one element to shatter the Draconis Combine.” He thought out aloud pausing as the waitress arrived with two more ales.
“And then onto Skye and Marik.” Coolage whispered in response naming their next two targets.
Pirate Point/Near Orbit
New Samarkand, Tabayama Prefecture
Midway Military District, Draconis Combine
14th March 3110
After spending nearly two weeks surveying the system from afar, Star Captain Gerry Harper felt confident in his ability to strike hard at the industries at the heart of the Draconis Combine. The primary shipyards between Jimmu and New Samarkand seemed very well defended with both DCS Hyuga and DCS Mulga maintaining station nearby. The other two major orbital industrial hubs in the system located near the La Grange points between New Samarkand and the other two moons were comparatively lightly defended. Both of them seemed to have a half-dozen or so small defensive satellites, and one larger one – though none of these appeared to have capital-scale weapons and were backed up by less than a wings worth of aerospace fighters and few combat DropShips.
With this intelligence in mind, Gerry considered two options: a punitive strike on the shipyards themselves, or a pair of strikes against both the other two industrial hubs. While he wanted to do to the Dragon what they did to the Ravens, he realized he would have very limited opportunity to do real damage to the shipyards before the defending WarShips could respond and with his targeting arrays still causing issues he did not have the confidence the Sceptre had would do the damage necessary to make the attack worth it. With the second option, he felt the damage done would be less directly militarily significant but would cause shortages in other areas which could eventually be felt in the DCMS. The second option also left open the ability to make a significant political statement, the potential to destroy the last Samarkand-class carrier in Combine hands. While primarily a museum piece, it continued to be maintained and held a wing of equally ancient aerospace fighters - a moderate threat in and of itself.
Gerry chose the second option, jumping to the first point and destroying the industrial hub in short order, focusing the Sceptre’s fire on the mobile defense units before retargeting to industrial targets. The defenses fall quickly while Gerry gave the factories themselves five minutes to evacuate before the Sceptre destroyed them as well. Meanwhile the Draconis WarShips attempted to respond to the Sceptre and while they are unwilling to sacrifice an Inazuma-class corvette, the DCS Mulga did load up and jump to the second hub, dropping off its integral aerospace fighter company, two Nekohono’os and an Okinawa DropShip, significantly increasing the defenses of the hub by an order of magnitude.
The Sceptre jumped into the second hub, immediately coming under fire by the pair of Nekohono’os as capital missiles engaged the Snow Raven WarShip filling the space between the vessels with explosions and fire. Gerry released his aerospace fighters and combat capable small craft, the two stars worth of craft functioning to bolster the integral anti-missile systems of his WarShip allowing the Sceptre to concentrate on the defending craft. Regardless of the craft, AMS, and screen launchers, a pair of Kraken’s fired from the Nekohono’os detonate against the skin of the Sceptre blowing open parts of its hull damaging systems and killing members of the Snow Raven crew. Despite the damage caused by the defenders they are no match for a WarShip the size of the Sceptre which quickly deals with the remaining crews giving the factory staffers five minutes to leave their posts before destroying them.
Its primary mission complete the Sceptre then turned towards New Samarkand itself.
Bridge, Sceptre
Sceptre-class Strike Cruiser
“Star Captain, it appears the Togura is moving directly towards us, I think they are intending on ramming.” Sensors reported.
“Translate 15 degrees, then target the Togura with all weapons in the nose and right fore-quarters. Fire at will.” Gerry Harper watches in admiration as the battle draws to a close, thinking it a waste to use such honorable warriors on such a museum piece.
“One of the reapers is not tracking well, sir” one of the weapon’s officers warned.
“Fire anyways” he commanded if the weapon fired into space or hit another part of the Togura he didn’t care as long as the Sceptre destroyed it’s target.
“Aye sir.”
Tactical Center, Snow Raven
Snow Raven-class Battleship
At the same time another vessel jumped into the system the Snow Raven, capital of the Raven Alliance’s navy, “jump transition complete... it appears we have jumped into a debris field, my Khan.” Khan Sukhanov gave his sensors officer a moment to analyze the debris for a more accurate picture. “It looks to be remnants of the factories we were intending to raid, somebody beat us to it. Local space is populating now. The Sceptre is above New Samarkand in combat with a Combine WarShip.”
Staring at the information scrawling the screen, the Khan sees a stream of projectiles firing just off the path of the oncoming WarShip in a complete and unfortunate miss. In an image eerily reminiscent of the destruction of Dehra Dun nearly three centuries past, the shells entered the atmosphere of New Samarkand, travelling too fast to be effected by re-entry; they impacted with the surface a score of miles away from the Imperial capital near where the largest natural gas power plant on the planet was located. At first, nothing happened but after a few seconds, a series of explosions occurred across the surface before a final single massive explosion resulted in a huge cloud of expanding ash and dust as the large natural gas reservoir detonated in an explosion that could be seen from space. The end result is a crater nearly a mile in diameter with nearby towns and settlements affected by debris and by. The remains of the concentrated fire of the Sceptre devastates the DCS Togura, which disintegrates into an expanding mass of debris. The Sceptre is unable to avoid this entirely and a few chunks of the once-warship smash into its armour.
As the Snow Raven’s sensor images updated Khan Sukhanov takes a moment to compose himself before speaking to the communications officer, “broadcast this in the open... I want everyone in this system to hear this” he said barely holding back his anger “Star Captain Gerry Harper, this is Khan Vir Sukhanov, I command you to surrender command of your vessel to your executive officer.” He demanded “by your actions in firing indiscriminately on New Samarkand, you have brought dishonor to your name, your bloodhouse, and your clan. Your name will never be spoken again. Your genetics as well as your genefather’s and genemother’s will be reaved from the genebanks. From now and forevermore you are as nothing as the emptiness of the void.” Sukhanov stated wanting to make sure the man completely understood how much he loathed him. “To the crew of the Sceptre you have brought dishonour on your vessel, your Clan and yourselves. I will spare you of a Trial of Annihilation if you surrender your vessel to me now and turn your commander over to face justice.” He said cutting transmission to a completely silence filled the Snow Raven’s control room he had spared the crew of a death sentence but everyone knew that the Khan’s wrath would not be completely spared on the Sceptre’s crew. A short time later the Sceptre disappeared as it activated its jump engine and withdrew from the star system.
Still in hostile territory Sukhanov turned towards his communication’s officer “communicate with the surface of New Samarkand. Inform them that the Snow Raven offers any assistance it can to help the people of this world. I promise them that I will see the Sceptre and its crew brought to justice and that I personally offer my apologies to the people of the Draconis Combine. Our genetics labs are to scrub the genes of the Sceptre’s crew from our vaults.” He said he knew the Council would have to confirm his orders of Genetic Murder but he also knew that few would oppose him and know that they would not face his wrath. “Also send a message to Quatre Belle on my order they are to scrub all plans to replicate the Sceptre design we will rinse our Clan of all association with that vessel it will NEVER be reproduced.”
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Imperial Palace, Yamashiro
New Samarkand, Tabayama Prefecture
Midway Military District, Draconis Combine
18th March 3110
The Imperial Palace lay in ruins, the design and structure of the complex had been built with orbital bombardment as a possibility with numerous underground bunkers and passageways but the underground explosion had caused the equivalent of a massive earthquake, with the underground structures not designed for the kind of horizontal pressures exerted on them. Most of the bunkers had been built with such sturdiness that none of them collapsed but numerous tunnels had suffered cutting off a number of bunkers and preventing response teams from rescuing those trapped beneath. Digging through the wreckage Raven R-Teams and the First Genyosha worked together to extract the survivors. Upon seeing the destruction brought by the Sceptre’s attack and the Raven Khan’s offer of assistance functioning authorities on New Samarkand had agreed to a cease fire with the Raven forces.
Noise had been coming from the collapsed tunnel for the last half hour, slowly growing louder. A mechanical voice finally started coming through the debris, “Please step back from the collapse, the debris is unstable.” The message boomed on a repeating cycle as a large clawed hand broke through the wall.
A large mechanical face appeared in the recently dug hole, “Civilians, please step away from the collapse, we ought to be able to extract you within an hour.”
“I am not a civilian, and you will get me out of here, now!” Akira demanded, though he didn’t recognize this power armor.
“Name, and rank.” Spoke the face.
“I said, get me-”
“Name, and rank.” The face repeated.
“Fine, Akira Kurita, you should’ve recognized me.” Akira was taking his irritation for being cooped up on this automaton.
The face took a moment before pulling back from the hole, a portion of the head revealing itself for a moment, as Akira swore he saw a Clan Snow Raven insignia. A moment later he heard an echoing “we found him; we will leave him to you, our offer of assistance stands.”
Another face, this one he recognized as Tai-sho Hanna Seung of the First Genyosha “Sir, we’ll have you out of here in about four hours.”
“The other one said one hour.” Akira grumbled hating to credit the Ravens with anything why they were on his capital he had no idea.
The officer looked abashed, “They’re, umm… much better at this than we are sir.”
A little less than four hours later, Akira walked into an overcast sky, the smell of ash on the wind. “The clouds look… different.”
“It’s not clouds sir, its ash. The rogue Raven WarShip sent a stream of shells into the natural gas fields east of here, igniting the underground reservoir.”
“Raven WarShip?” He demanded his anger rising as he saw Ravens were still on the system assisting New Samarkand’s defenders honour demanded he honour agreements made by his subordinates.
“Yes sir, please come with me, we have suitable lodgings for you.” The weariness finally catching up to Akira he followed Tai-sho Hannah Seung as he was lead to a well defended hotel, along the way he saw more Ravens on the surface of New Samarkand. Tomorrow, the negotiations would begin in earnest with the Clan leadership.
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The next day Khan Vir Sukhanov met with Akira Kurita. During the night Snow Raven and Combine recovery teams had found Warlord Minoru Kurita and his son Warlord Hirohito Kurita both had been badly injured but were alive and recovering. In their stead the young Kurita heir had taken point in the negotiations with the Ravens who continued to help with recovery efforts on New Samarkand.
“Your forces were driven from the Quatre Belle system but they completed their objective and crippled several of our facilities.”
“A strike that you returned on us here and then you took it further by striking at my capital. Our attack was one based on military value while yours attacked our civilians.”
“The crew of the Sceptre acted without orders. They left the Quatre Belle system without my permission and struck New Samarkand alone. I will see that crew hunted down and brought to justice. Already I have commanded their genes be struck from our Clan’s banks and the Sceptre hull design will never be reproduced.”
“You will turn over all the territories you have taken in this conflict. Withdraw to our pre-border lines.” Akira demanded but he saw an immediate change in the sorry Raven Khan.
“Understand me I am sorry for the actions of a crew of my people in this system and I am sorry for the virus that has ravaged Milligan’s World” he said accepting in at least part “but I will not surrender territory that members of my Clan won with honour. I will agree to cease offensive operations against the Draconis Combine from this day and I will agree to assist the people of New Samarkand as long as we are welcome.”
“Our peoples cannot continue along this destructive path. If we continue where will it end? When we resort to the use weapons of mass destruction?” Akira said stepping away from the Raven Khan for a moment. During his training Akira had studied history and knew the history of the Succession Wars well.
“Perhaps we need another path one of mutual respect but not one of peace. Honour trials for our worlds that would be limited in scope but enough to blood our troops and honour their worth, honour trials that we and you would respect and follow” he suggested.
“Agreed but there must be time given between our first ‘Honour Trials’ and now our people need time to accept the new status quo.”
“Perhaps we could go a ways towards this?” The Raven Khan proposed “we have discovered planet which we have named Nexus Ri. The world is mostly covered in jungle and its atmosphere is mildly tainted.” The Raven Khan said
“And why would the Combine be interested in such a world?”
“Because there is deposits of Germanium under that forests and precious jewels, oils and metals on the world and in the asteroid belt of the system.”
“A valuable world we graciously accept it as…”
“This world is not a gift, Akira Kurita; it is a world that we will share your Dragon and my Raven." He proposed the Draconis Combine representative looked disappointed but intrigued. "Each of us will deploy enough forces to the world to be respectful but we will each only hold half of the system. The forces we send there will fight over the factories and territory of the system.”
“And so beginning the great honour trials” Akira Kurita agreed “and what of Milligan’s World? Will you leave it a rotten ruin?”
“Neg, the Star League Defence Force has shown interest in shared stewardship with Clan Snow Raven. I believe it is an arrangement we can make work in a similar manner of Nexus Ri. We will all find a peaceful end to this conflict.”
Medical Ward, Tristar
Badlands, Twin Sons
District of Lesnovo, Free Worlds League
27th March 3110
As soon as they had heard they had travelled nearly half way across the Badlands to see their daughter Sandra Furey laid in a bed injured during the most recent skirmish for the world of Twin Sons. Michael and Sandra Furey sat at the bedside of their daughter as she awoke she had burns down the left of her body, a broken arm, pelvis and several cracked ribs. She would be hospitalized for weeks if not longer.
“Mom? dad? What are you doing here?” She asked seeing them Michael and Sandra Furey were known across Twin Sons both outsiders to the world who had made it their home and brought security and peace to the Badlands leading to the formation of the unit Petra was now assigned to the First Twin Sons Regiment. Unfortunately the northern territories and southern territories still desired to make war.
“We heard you were injured” Sandra Furey said briefly smiling.
“A stupid battle between the North and South and we’re stuck in the middle again. It’s not over resources or over control just over stupid fights.”
“We hoped that uniting the peoples of the Badlands would help bring Twin Sons together.” Sandra said looking at her husband “we were finding a secure place for our people in forging alliances with other settlements.”
“But we will always be the target of those who have greater power than us unless we show strength.” Her father said quietly he had been born to the Smoke Jaguar Clan and did his very best at holding the remaining Jaguars and their descendants together.
“Then perhaps we should show them the Badlands has strength that cannot be ignored.” She said looking at her mother and then to her father who nodded his agreement.
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The Wobbies have a lot of big plans in the pipeline.
New Samarkand, as the Ravens say, OOPS! O0
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wellwell... galedon plague revived, promising snow raven captain gone rogue, wobbles turning up the heat on the IS (and i suspect parts of the sldf infiltrated) :D major wrecking incoming unless someone collects all the pieces. where is uncle chandie when you need him? :D :D
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Nice Double Feature!
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Superb stuff, so the Clan ship went rogue, lots of Wobbie shenanigans and plans within plans, seems they are almost hiding in plain sight. At least the shock of the two attacks stopped the Ravens and Combine from fighting. I still get the feeling that things are going to come to an ugly, swollen head, and soon. But no matter what, i'm sure it will be magnificent :D
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so are the Raven's going to get rid of that class of ship? if so would they trade them or scrap them? if the could sell them, then to who? the other Clans might not want them.... the Sea Fox's could use them, but what about trading the tainted ship the SLDF? that would be one trial that would be crazy to work out.
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so are the Raven's going to get rid of that class of ship? if so would they trade them or scrap them? if the could sell them, then to who? the other Clans might not want them.... the Sea Fox's could use them, but what about trading the tainted ship the SLDF? that would be one trial that would be crazy to work out.
As far as the Ravens are concerned, the entire class of ship is considered tainted by the actions of Gerry Harper. In this case its not particularly difficult as it, and the 3 sister classes, were experimental ships, thus only one was produced and as it never actually passed its pre-combat trials a second one was never started. Then the way I wrote it [and DC did some minor changes] invoked the most horrific experience in Raven history - one that nearly caused the absorption of the entire clan and is integral to Raven identity. Even if the Ravens lost a trial for the design, they would likely trial over the annihilation of every warship as its keel is laid, then again as it leaves the slip, then the slip itself is probably next, then... you probably get the idea. ;)
To your last point, technically that would be trading a clan-tech design (even if done through what would normally be a legitimate trial), something expressly forbidden by the Clan Grand Council.
The odds of the design specs actually surviving the purge brought on by Vir infinitesimally small - though until the ship itself is brought low, there will always be potential in its revival.
One last thing to note, Vir knows his order to purge the design specs and, more importantly, the genebanks is overstepping his authority. But the reasons behind it likely give him a very strong backing in the Raven Clan Council, the the point where his credibility and authority over the clan may even increase significantly.
Edit: The above are my words, not DC's he can choose whatever path he feels appropriate for his setting, this is just how I see it playing out.
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I do not disagree with that Vition2 said there was only one ship, it is now rogue, there won't be anymore built. Vir will face issues with the Clan Council in the future over the threat to blood heritages. And the Sceptre won't be going away either we'll see what trouble it gets into in the future.
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The design can re-designed/redone so it won't be a Sceptre. It takes years to design a ship, it would be wasteful to be rid of the core design that a considerable number of resources were poured into it and to just get rid of it because of the actions of few.
EDIT: I felt compelled to fix this. My computer wasn't behaving at the time I was typing this.
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The design can re-designed/redone so it won't be a Sceptre. It takes years to design a ship, be wasteful to be rid of the core design that had resources poured into it and gotten rid of act of few.
In most cases, yes this would be true, but the Sceptre is very heavily based on the Splendid ship design - in fact, it is really just a major weapon upgrade and reorientation package over the original. Compared to the other three designs, it keeps the most in common with the parent design.
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The design can re-designed/redone so it won't be a Sceptre. It takes years to design a ship, it would be wasteful to be rid of the core design that a considerable number of resources were poured into it and to just get rid of it because of the actions of few.
we have a precedence in clan culture. the wolverine. a widely respected mech in the is and sldf (i personally dislike it, but hey...) was never re-visited by anybody after the wolverine annihilation. so... its quite logical that at least the snow ravens wont revamp the design or accept anybody to do so.
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we have a precedence in clan culture. the wolverine. a widely respected mech in the is and sldf (i personally dislike it, but hey...) was never re-visited by anybody after the wolverine annihilation. so... its quite logical that at least the snow ravens wont revamp the design or accept anybody to do so.
I believe it became the Conjurer (better known as the Hellhound) actually based on the Wolverine.
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* Imagines the Whispers getting ahold of a Scorpion II, what fun! *
Really looking forward to seeing what your up to next DC...
TT
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Funny thing, I was just thinking about how a nice addition the Sceptre would make to the Wobbie fleet. }:)
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Funny thing, I was just thinking about how a nice addition the Sceptre would make to the Wobbie fleet. }:)
:o sicko... ;)
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My thanks to James Tanaga for the pirate part to start, and Vition for the Montbatton piece
LaGrange Point
Zeta Shimae V, Pirate Space
Periphery
1st April, 3110
Kaptain Michael Schwartz looked at his screen, watching as his fighter screen were about to reach the pirate’s own and their accompanying DropShips. He was buckled in his captain’s seat onboard the LCDS Train Wreck it one of two Overlord A3 DropShips assigned to the Seventh Lyran Regulars as close support escorts. He couldn’t shake the feeling something was not right, had felt it ever since he and the rest of the Seventh Lyran Regulars had jumped into the system, yet he couldn’t pinpoint the exact cause for this.
Perhaps it was just his nerves, he thought to himself, as he watched his fighters began to descend on the pirates. Then the fighting began.
“Tactical, target the enemy Overlord and began bracket fire with our AR-10’s,” he ordered out loud, just as his fighter’s met the enemy.
“Yes, Kaptain!” he heard the young Warrant officer yell out. Moments later, he saw the first salvo from the two AR-10 missile launchers launch from his dropship towards the pirate’s own and nodded. All so far according to plan, he thought.
Yet just as they were about to hit and likely destroy the enemy Overlord, they disappeared from the screen. “Tactical, confirm the first missile salvo did not, repeat not, hit target!” he yelled out brusquely.
“Confirmed Sir!” the Warrant Officer sounded out a moment later. “Squadron Leader Jason McCain reports enemy Overlord is armed with AMS!”
“I hate it when I’m right,” Michael commented. “Tactical, order our gunners to target the enemy Overlord with extreme prejudice. I want it dead yesterday, Verstanden?”
“Roger that!” the young woman growled out.
“Comms, order the LCDS Whiplash to move in for support,” Michael ordered out.
“Doing so now,” was the other Warrant Officer’s immediate reply.
“Sir!” the female Wrrant Officer manning Tactical yelled out anxiously. “Unidentified ship just entered the system!”
“What the hell!” Michael yelled out as he quickly tapped his screen to full Tactical and saw the threat. “Oh Scheiße!”
He watched in horror as the Seventh Lyran Regulars JumpShip icons began to disappear one after another. “Sir!” he heard the female Warrant Officer manning Tactical yell out. “LCDS Whiplash reports enemy WarShip of unknown class in system and destroying our JumpShips!”
He paled. “Conn, turn us about! Order all dropships to rally to us immediately!” If they were indeed facing an enemy WarShip, only their combined efforts could fight the WarShip off. If they were lucky.
As the DropShip turned about and began its burn to the other dropships, his hopes were dashed. Where the Fighting Seventh’s JumpShips once were sat a large WarShip, at least a cruiser, he judged.
“Sir, Squadron Leader Jason McCain reports his fighters are completely ineffective against the enemy Overlord and has lost two of his squadron!”
He shook his head hopelessly as he saw the other dropship’s belonging to the Fighting Seventh began to be destroyed by accurate NPPC and missile fire coming from the enemy WarShip. “Comms! Announce our surrender now!”
As he heard the warrant officer manning the comm station signal their surrender, he could only watch in horror as more and more Lyran DropShips were destroyed. Suddenly, he saw a bright light then blackness as the LCDS Train Wreck exploded.
Cargo Bay, Sceptre
Uninhabited System, Raven Alliance
Periphery
3rd April 3110
With most of the crew present Star Captain Gerry Harper stood in front of the remaining crew of the Sceptre. The vessel had taken minor damage in the New Samarkand system but it was damage they couldn’t replace, as would every loss from now on. “The Raven Khan has declared us rogue for our actions in the New Samarkand system.”
“Your actions in the system” Pilot warrior Richard stated angrily.
“Yes, my actions and the actions of this crew, we failed to prepare Sceptre for battle, you all followed my orders and failed to challenge my leadership.” He said bluntly he knew his failings he had seen the damage wrought by Sceptre’s weapons on the surface of New Samarkand.
“You surrender to the Ravens we could be accepted back into the Clan” another suggested.
“Neg, the Raven Khan has cast us out, the Raven Khan!” Security Chief Elemental Quinn Shu said looking around the room. She was seated in a corner looking at the floor she was in her thirties like Harper and heading towards the end of her career but she knew Raven rules as well as anyone. “They will fire first and ask questions a far second.”
“So what are we supposed to do?” Weapons officer Paige Cooper asked her bloodname now only a mark on an ended career and life something they were all now feeling.
“Miraposa” Harper said looking around the room seeing the sense of loss among them turn into anger.
“That’s a Dark Caste hole!” One shouted angrily
“They are nothing better than pirates!”
“Neither are we” another countered.
“Hear out the Captain” another voice said.
“Quieten the hell down!” Quinn Shu shouted gaining their attention as she rose to her feet standing beside Harper because of his Elemental blood he stood just as tall and as broad shouldered as her. “Choose your words carefully” she said glancing at him.
“The people of Miraposa are former Clansmen” Harper explained “we are unfortunately former Clansmen. We will invite people to trial for positions on this crew” he saw their disappointed faces “we will only take those who are capable of contributing. We will trial or trade for the supplies and food we need to keep this ship and this crew operational.” He said they didn’t look entirely convinced but none of them argued. “Now get back to work!” He said taking command. As the crew Harper was aware of Shu had remained close to him.
“I would keep a weapon near your person at all times, one that can penetrate Elemental armour.”
“You do not think you can control your people quineg?”
“Who said anything about my people?” She said smirking looking at her Captain “we are old warriors Captain Harper. This was my last mission as an Elemental commander on board a WarShip I would have been reduced to a JumpShip or a Solahma unit. Now perhaps I can die as a Warrior on board a WarShip that could regain its pride and honour see us right, Captain, or watch your back.” She said walking off leaving him in the cargo bay he would keep his crew together and ensure they all wanted to serve on the ship he would make this work and the Raven Khan could be damned.
Trial of Possession
Anjin Muerto, Crucis March
Federated Suns
9th April 3110
Following Nova Cat victories that had seen the Clan push as far into the Federated Suns as Brockton Marshal of Armies Sora Higginson along with the First Crucis Lancers RCT travelled to the region assaulting and capturing Wetumpka, Broken Wheel, Marielund, Lackland and Skeppetana before landing on Anjin Muerto. From Anjin Muerto the Marshal of Armies broadcast a message into the Nova Cat’s Den which was simple. “The Nova Cats are invited to a Trial of Possession for Anjin Muerto. If victorious they may claim this system and continue operations. If they fail they will retreat from Anjin Muerto and both sides will cease attacks for a minimum period of six months.” It was a challenge the honour bound Clan could not refuse and it was a challenge that Khan Canin Rosse himself could not refuse.
Landing south of the capital two clusters of Nova Cats moved forward towards a defence line of the Crucis Lancers engaging first at long range and then in a close quarters brawl. Running through the centre of the Crucis Lancers formation Khan Canin Rosse’s recently deployed Dragon Cat II OmniMech is a complete surprise for the Federated Suns lines as are several laser reflective and flame resistant Nova Cat designs allowing them to penetrate deeply into the Cruics Lancer formation and allowing Khan Rosse to personally down Marshal of Armies Sora Higginson’s Argus OmniMech. Although Canin is successful in taking down the Marshal the Nova Cats are unable to turn the tide of the battle and after eight hours of heavy fighting the Clan retreats to its landing zone surrendering the trial. Unwilling to challenge the firepower of the Nova Cats and their DropShips the remains of the Crucis Lancers allow the Nova Cats to leave the planet beginning the six month cease fire.
A month after the fall of Sora Higginson First Prince Burton Davion announces that his younger brother Fredrick would become the new Marshal of Armies. Already the Prince’s Champion Fredrick immediately accepts the position and orders a reinforcement of the Nova Cat and Draconis Combine borders.
Public Announcement
Imperial Palace, New Samarkand
Military District of Midway, Draconis Combine
12th April 3110
In front of selected reporters and guests Gunji-no-Kanrei Hirohito Kurita took the stand in front of the tri-vid cameras a black band had been added to the left arm of his immaculate uniform. “Fellow citizens of the Draconis Combine it is my duty to inform you that Warlord Minoru Kurita, my father, did not survive the wounds that were inflicted upon him in the Snow Raven attack on New Samarkand the Draconis Combine has been harmed by a deadly enemy…” he said pausing as if wishing to say something else “but we are not lost.” He said glancing over his shoulder “my father served as Warlord of the Draconis Combine in the place of Vincent Kurita and in the stead of an heir who is now ready to assume his rightful position. Allow me to introduce Coordinator of the Draconis Combine, Prince of New Samarkand and the head of the Kurita family Akira, son of Vincent Kurita.” He said remaining on the podium for a moment before stepping aside allowing Akira Kurita to step forwards and take his place.
“People of the Draconis Combine, we have lost a great leader in my uncle Minoru Kurita and many of you do not know me.” He said glancing at Hirohito Kurita who nodded his support “I protect the Draconis Combine to the best of my ability and I will do my uncle proudly. With the people of the Draconis Combine we will do great things for our nation and see recent failures reversed and our enemies fear the armies of House Kurita.” He said glancing at the podium again “to this end Draconis Combine forces have destroyed the Nova Cat WarShip Obilisk in the Kamarod along with two clusters of Nova Cat forces. We will turn this Clan menace from our borders and return all the worlds that rightfully belong to this nation to the Combine’s flag.” He didn’t mention the Nova Cat successes at Altona and Ad Duwayd which had both fallen to the Clan forces. An attack on Lupine V was turned back by the Star League Defence Force who had held up against the Nova Cat attackers.
Market Place, Junction C Settlement
Mariposa, Independent World
Periphery
15th April 3110
A show of force flown by the aerospace fighter pilots of the Sceptre was all it had taken to get Star Captain Gerry Harper a place in the centre of Junction C the largest settlement on Mariposa. Now he was surrounded by several hundred civilians “I am Star Captain Gerry Harper” he said identifying himself to the crowd surrounding his position was an entire star of Elemental warriors in full Battle Armour each with the Snow Raven insignia crossed out on their suits. “I am the commander of the Strike Cruiser Sceptre we have broken from Clan Snow Raven and I invite you to join us. I have positions for naval trained crewmen, aerospace pilots, Elementals and technicians. This is a WarShip I will not be taking passengers everyone must pull their weight and prove they can join my crew.” He said seeing many who looked interested and many others who looked angry.
“What happened to the Scopuli?” One called out naming an Invader-class JumpShip which had been coming to the system.
“The Scopuli was intercepted by my aerospace fighters. We are transferring food, fuel and supplies from the vessel.”
“WE NEED THAT FOOD HERE!” Another shouted angrily raising his arm in anger this time the Elementals surrounding Harper raised their arm mounted weapons, they were moments from a bloodbath, Harper could see the trouble building.
“There will be more food; more supplies for you my WarShip needed those supplies now.” Harper said firmly “listen to me carefully we do not wish to bring further harm to you but we will defend ourselves if necessary.”
“You’re acting like a Clansmen Harper too honourable for your own good. That won’t last.” A man said he stood off to the side at least forty years old he wore a leather jacket over a red shirt with dark jeans and very clearly wore two side arms. He seemed to take pleasure in using contractions to irritate the Clansmen. “You didn’t land in a DropShip which indicates to me you don’t have BattleMechs you won’t get far without BattleMechs.”
“I could level this settlement and every other on this planet without BattleMechs” Harper pointed out at the man.
“Aye, you could do just that but then you wouldn’t get the supplies or the people you want. BattleMechs could get those for you.” He said the crowd seemed to be looking back and fourth between the two men.
“I can only use what I have got” Harper said
“You could have so much more” he said “without harming these people. In fact you could help them.” He said making his way through the crowd. One of the Elementals glanced in Harper’s direction and stepped aside allowing him to approach “I am Stefan Banacek I will attach my DropShip and my unit to your vessel if you will take us away from the Ravens.” He said in front of the crowd before stepping forwards and continuing in a low voice “in exchange you will provide this settlement with two small craft which they can use to transfer food and supplies between settlements lessening the impact of your raid.”
“What do you owe these people?”
“They took us in when the Serpents fell we have fought with them and they have fought with us.”
“So why abandon them?” Harper asked keeping his voice low.
“You offer a chance to move on and perhaps allow us to link up with other elements that moved through the atmosphere. Also we’ve raided the Alliance recently and the Ravens do not give up on their debts.”
“The Ravens are after us as well” Harper pointed out thinking about what Banacek had said about other units out there that could also join them. “I accept your offer Stefan Banacek” he said in a louder voice and I will not leave the people of this world high and dry. I will leave two small craft which you can use to move supplies and people to make Mariposa a more effective colony world.” He said several hours later Banacek’s Overlord C-class DropShip rose to orbit to join the Sceptre.
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As the Sceptre began to turn away from the planet of Mariposa there were several jump signatures registered as the Karl Devalis, an Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser and several JumpShips arrived in the star system.
“They didn’t take long” Harper noted looking at the screens the Anna Rosse-class vessel was bigger and carried a heavier armament than the Sceptre it also carried more secondary craft and DropShips with those carried by the JumpShips also factored in they were heavily outgunned. “Have the Konstantin remain close to us and turn us deeper into the system.”
“Query from Konstantin we are heading into the system?” Tech Lewis asked as the WarShip began to turn.
“Confirm it we will jump by a pirate point, if Konstantin maintains our pace we will collect them at the pirate point.” He said watching as the Overlord maintained its acceleration moving with the WarShip the additional crew on the vessel, and from the ground forces, would be a drain on resources but they’d also hopefully provide his vessel with far more options with dealing with threats. “Helm, the Ravens are days away we need to maintain course for that point we have to hope the Ravens are unable to complete an inter-system jump.”
“The Anna Rosse design is more than fifty years old she was not built with a Mark II LF Battery.” Amanda Lankenau commented from the helm position of all the bridge officers she would probably be his biggest threat in the future experienced she was also very capable having also won her bloodname so far she had not said much about their current path but time would reveal all.
“Aff, we should be able to jump clear but the Ravens will not give up easily.” He said nearly sixteen hours later the Sceptre took back on board the Konstantin and jumped clear from the star system. They did not see the Ravens arrival at Mariposa where they brutally put down the Dark Caste there as they added the world to the Raven Alliance, days later the nearby independent world of Argo was also added to the Raven’s domain.
Wolf Trials
Star League Protectorate
22nd April 3110
In the first proper assault by Clan Wolf against the Star League Defence Forces of the Star League Protectorate the Wolves assault Brodon, Nathan and Alphard. The Wolves are forced off all three worlds by a determined Star League Defence but it is clear that the Clan wishes to push into the Star Leauge Protectorate.
Conference Chamber
Mountbatton, Texas-class Battleship
Nexus Ri, Shared world Raven-Combine Border
23th April, 3110
With most of their resources going to rebuilding New Samarkand, the Combine had very few resources in the area to assist in canvassing Nexus Ri for settlement sites, the Ravens allowed a perfunctory trial for a pair of DropShips and their personnel to utilize a small portion of the Mountbatton as a base of operations.
“What is this?! I was told we were going to share this world” Ashida Matsumo exclaimed shortly after walking into the conference room and noting a number of sites on the planetary map bearing Raven Alliance iconography.
Holding out a tablet the head Raven scientist calmly states “Master Surveyor Matsumo, I suggest you look through this data before coming to any conclusions.”
“And use the trumped up information you Cla-”
“Ravens do not lie, Master Surveyor, the data on this device is accurate and complete.” Scientist Sava stated, bristling slightly.
Ashida grabbed the tablet despite his shock at the bluntness of the Raven official and began looking over the data. He was surprised by the parity between the sites the Ravens had already claimed and other sites that had been left open to the Combine. “We will need to assay the sites ourselves to determine both the veracity of this data and quality of the sites themselves.”
“Of course, Master Surveyor, be warned, make your comings and goings explicit to the Star Commodore, he dislikes you Dragons and will use any excuse to remove you.”
“Thank you and you can call me Ashida.”
“Sava.”
Ashida turned and strode out of the conference room to meet with his teams and to start getting to work. Over the next week, the dozen survey crews he brought with him have assayed nearly a score of promising sites. He forwarded his findings and recommendations to New Samarkand hoping that the new rulership on the Combine capital was still content with sharing this world with the Ravens.
While Ashida was surveying sites diplomacy was being done in another part of the ship revolving around the areas which would be used for trials. Quite a few locations are chosen with a large variety of both terrain and atmospheric conditions, but it is explicitly decided that no trials would take place within 50 km of any settlement to stop any collateral damage.
Towards the end of the month the Ravens bring in their first Carrack full of preliminary supplies and personnel. Meanwhile on Milligan’s World, the Ravens offer resettlement and specialized trainings for those wishing to emigrate to Nexus Ri - over the next few months, quite a few end up choosing this option taking up residence and begin trainings in the Eden Rose which continues to provide relief to the world’s suffering population.
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Excellent update and Long Live the Coordinator (Possibly throw a Banzai in there). At least there's some peace along the Cats/Suns border and the peace between the Ravens and Combine appears to be holding.
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Grand Mistress of Lothario’s Office
Vatnajökull, Lothario
Lothian League, Periphery
3rd May 3110
The office of the Grand Mistress of Lothario did not look like one that belonged to a leader of a state instead it looked more like the office of a companies Chief Executive Officer and was placed on top of a eight story tower block in the capital city of Vatnajökull. “Welcome to Vatnajökull I hope your trip was comfortable.” Grand Mistress Clarissa Logan said welcoming Senator-Duke Lionel Washington to her office.
“It was I see the new road works have far improved the transportation links” the Senator-Duke said commenting on the recent works that had been completed on Lothario.
“Yes they are a great improvement and we have much to thank you for Senator if it was not for Free Worlds League investment.”
“The Captain-General desires to have strong and peaceful borders with our neighbours.” Washington said “which is why he did not oppose the Lothian League when you brought the border systems into your realm.”
“They also wished peace my nation offered peace the recent pirate activity in the Son Hou Theatre has indicated that the Lyrans are unable to protect them. My deployment of the Hellraisers and other mercenary commands has brought stability to the region.”
“That stability and protection is something that the Free Worlds League could offer to this entire region.” He said handing over a folder. Clarissa took it in her hands and flicked the first page.
“You would divide my nation?” She remarked angrily looking through the first page.
“Under the initial proposal sent to Captain-General Abraham Ledford that was what the Free Worlds League desired…”
“War” the Grand Mistress stated standing up placing the folder down Washington reached over and pointed at the bottom of the page to a single red line which read “REJECTED BY CAPTAIN-GENERAL.”
“Not war” she said as Washington flicked over the page to reveal a second proposal. “Alliance?” She whispered retaking her chair looking over the page.
“Not alliance” Washington said quietly “integration. The Captain-General Abraham Ledford proposes that the Lothan League becomes the District of Lothario. It maintains its present borders and worlds within the greater Free Worlds League with each of your worlds afforded a vote at the Free Worlds League Parliament and your vote equal to that held by the other District Leaders.”
“With no strings attached?” She asked looking over the page
“You will have to let Free Worlds League units and WarShips cross your district’s borders and your worlds will owe taxes towards the running of the Free Worlds League. You will also have to accept that each of your worlds now will have to adhere to the rules of the Free Worlds League, adopt our laws and accept democracy is part of the ruling of your planets.” He explained “in exchange your people will benefit from the greater defence, more investment in infrastructure, communications, health and education.” He said showing her the two sides of the coin. As it stood the worlds answered to her ruler ship and each of the mercenary commands were personally hired by the money from her accounts under these plans that would not last, then again nor could her personal finances.
“How long do we have to decide?”
“As long as you require” Lionel Washington said standing leaving the documents on the table. “Grand Mistress, this might appear to be a take over by a nation greater than yours but really this is making one great nation even better, join us become the seventh District of the Free Worlds League one sum of the greater whole.” He said bowing his head slightly before turning to leave. Nearly a week past before Grand Mistress Clarissa Logan put out the call for the other planetary leaders of the Lothian League to come together, the small nation lacked the HPG resources to discuss this while apart. By the end of June the Lothian League agreed to the Free Worlds League’s offer becoming the District of Lothario and joining the larger nation. Within a couple of weeks of the initial agreement being made between Lothario and the Free Worlds League several more independent worlds around the nation are also folded into the new district.
Nadir Point, WarShip Sceptre
Actium, Independent World
Periphery
12th May 3110
Missiles, lasers and autocannon fire filed the space around the Sceptre as it emerged at the Nadir point of the Actium system they had expected an empty star system perhaps somewhere they could gain more food but not fight a battle. “Detach the Konstantin, Lewis, have them head directly away from the fighting we will cover!” Star Captain Gerry Harper commanded as the Sceptre was rocked by enemy fire “helm as soon as they are clear I want military thrust available immediately” he commanded Amanda Lankeneau as he looked at the sensors the Sceptre had jumped into the unclaimed system of Actium and found a Nova Cat supply convoy waiting at the jump point. The five JumpShips were already fast charging their jump drives to escape while the two Carrack-class Military Tansport ships were turning to attack the far larger Sceptre her respected their dedication and bravery but the former-Raven Strike Cruiser was a more capable vessel than the two transport WarShips. “Weapons target and destroy Chatham but disable Small Chance we need intelligence and hopefully some supplies.” He ordered the Sceptre moved between the two Nova Cat WarShips and fired a pair of broadsides the salvo directed on Chatham did not hold back instead it ravaged the small transport vessel penetrating the armour from multiple actions shredding the vessel. By comparison the assault on the Small Chance burned through the aft sections of the vessel destroying the engineering sections.
“The last JumpShip has cleared the system” Kimi reported from the sensor station “Catham is dead in space. Small Chance is showing heavy damage to its engineering section.”
“Amanda bring us into their aft arc and have our Elementals prepare for boarding action.”
“Konstantin, reports they are ready to earn their keep” Lewis reported from the other side of the bridge as Nova Cat and Sceptre aerospace fighters continued to duel between the two WarShips.
“There are still active weapons arrays on that ship” Harper noted but even as he spoke the Konstantin was in motion rolling over the Carrack opening its main cargo bay door as it went deploying BattleMechs and Battle Armour units directly onto the hull. The Konstantin took several laser and missile hits but none of the Small Chance’s capital guns struck the Overlord C as it dived away past the rear of the WarShip.
On the hull of the Carrack the Star of BattleMechs went to work quickly targeting the active weapons arrays near them before Battle Armour troops breached the hull from two entry points. “Pass to Stefan Banacek that we need survivors to interrogate.” Harper said glancing at Lewis as he watched the displays of the efficient boarding action Banacek’s personnel showing they were an asset to the Sceptre; a dangerous one.
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Nearly three hours later the thirty-two Nova Cat survivors from the two WarShips and their aerospace fighters had been interrogated by the Sceptre’s crew. It was very clear that the Raven Khan had cast them completely out of Clan society and that even being captured by another Clan would not repair the damage. The Nova Cats also had more than thirty active WarShips operating inside their territory not to mention space habitats and individual aerospace fighter units.
“We cannot traverse the Nova Cat’s Den” Gerry Harper said looking over the data, he looked between Stefan Banacek and Quinn Shu neither seemed to disagree. “Our only other options are we try to move through the periphery avoiding Clan Nova Cat’s claimed space and hope to find the supplies that will keep us operating. Or we attempt to pass through the Federated Suns periphery region using uninhabited systems to avoid their navy.”
“We cannot live in hope in the periphery this crew would turn against itself.” Shu noted
“We cannot hope to avoid the Federated Suns military for long it is extensive” Banakek noted “even using the battery we’ll encounter them eventually.”
“Clansmen don’t run from a fight” Harper noted looking at the former Adder bloodnamed warrior he wondered how much of Banacek’s fight had been taken with the fall of the Adders and the Serpents.
“Aff, but we are technically no longer Clansmen. We cannot look at ourselves as such nor can we expect our enemies to treat us that way. We are dark caste little more.” He said glancing between the two Ravens “now my people can assist in gaining us supplies the Federated Suns periphery region but we need to pick our targets properly and we need to act like the pirates that they will see us as.”
“We still don’t have a final target. This crew deserve to know where they are going.” Shu noted Harper glanced at her for her use of contractions wondering how quickly this crew would succumb to the dark caste’s ways.
“We need to supply the Sceptre with parts; fuel and food for this crew even with what we have taken here it will only go so far. For now we allow the need to supply drive this crew.”
“That will only go so far” Banacek said producing a small memory drive from within his jacket “this is a list of the former Clan units I know are operational.” He said seeing Harper’s surprise at this new revelation and wondering where the information had come from. Banacek it seemed had already picked up on Harper’s curiosity “there are back doors into the Sea Fox Chatterweb you just need to know how to access them. The dark caste in the homeworlds used them for years it didn’t take long for that to pass to the OZs the same practices continue under the Clan’s noses everyday. Even as the Watch gets more effective so do we.” He explained handing over the drive to Harper “perhaps we can find a group this crew will be comfortable with joining.”
“Why didn’t you DropShip attempt to make such an alliance?” Shu asked looking from the drive back towards Banacek.
“Because I didn’t have a seven hundred thousand ton WarShip at my back” Banacek admitted “you do not place your trust in anyone but those on your own crew.”
“Then why trust us?” Harper asked
“Sometimes you have to take a chance at making a better future.”
“Aff” Harper agreed “then we are going to take a chance and pass through the Federated Suns we will rely on our guns and our skill to see us through to one of these groups and forge an alliance that will see us prosper.” He said raising the drive up a little they were placing their future in the data it contained and trusting that they had enough firepower to overwhelm anyone who disagreed with them.
Clan Blood Spirit Command, Khan’s office
Haven, Deep Periphery
Clan Homeworlds
17th May 3110
With the remaining Goliath Scorpions in tow it had taken longer than Alex Lassenum had expected to return to Haven. On arrival in the system he had heard that Khan Katja Keller had been killed in a raid on the Society production world of Gatekeeper. That alone had shocked him, the Old Khan, the leader of his Clan was dead he never expected that to happen in his lifetime instead that she’d outlive them all. What shocked him more was when those who met him on Haven referred to him as ovKhan, honoured superior, most of them should barely have known him but instead wherever he stepped on Haven the people there made way for him right the way up until he reached the Khan’s office. There he met Star Captain Wesley Sukhanov “Star Captain, I did not expect to see you here.” He said his guard up around the old warrior he knew that the Khan had met with him before their ships departed but did not know the contents of the conversation.
“I did not expect to be here, it has been many years, but when I head of Katja’s death I knew that I had to do my last duty for my Khan.” He said reaching into his jacket’s pocket he drew out a small data pad which he placed on the white glass table which was probably the most advanced and modern item in the room “the Old Khan charged me with delivering this to you in the event of her death.”
“She knew this would happen quineg?”
“Neg, but she had been around long enough to know she needed to make a plan. A plan that now lies to you to complete.” He said crossing his arm across his chest in salute “ovKhan” he said before leaving Alex alone in the room. He slowly crossed over to the table and sat in the old leather recliner chair looking at the old flat screen computer on the desk. It took him a moment to find the courage to connect the data pad to the computer but when he did the program itself took over.
“This message is for Star Colonel Alex Lassenum.” Katja Keller said looking at the camera “Alex, I am dead and I am sorry I misled you, the Osis Pride was not my target in fact I do not know where the ship is.” She admitted “instead I planned to eliminate the new Scientist General on Gatekeeper as well as damage their production there, it was perhaps a plan too far but my contingency plan was already in motion. You” she said pausing “Alex you may not think that you are ready to be a Khan but you are, you are the one senior officer I know that is ready to embrace what the Blood Spirits could be.” She said “others remember what the Blood Spirits were and are ready to see them return to that hidden at Colleen they could live their lives until the Society found them, which will happen Alex, instead our Clan needs to continue its attacks against our enemies keep them uneasy keep them away from Colleen.” She said pausing looking away from the camera and then back again.
“Do not be the Khan that I was, I lived for too long, and hidden away on Colleen I showed our people the wrong example. I have attached to this message several warriors codex who I believe could serve you as saKhan of our Touman” she said looking down “lead our Clan, lead the remains of the Goliath Scorpions if you need to Alex destroy the Society.” She said finally before straightening up For The Cause” she said proudly.
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As his first decision as Khan Alex Lassenum officially ceded a quarter of the world of Honour to the Goliath Scorpions as he had promised them before his Spirits would not absorb the other Clan instead he would see them rebuilt and both Clan’s strengthened. It still hadn’t sunk into the Scorpions that the Not-Named’s flag flew over Haven and Honour but so far they had no tried to challenge the Blood Spirits over it.
Instead over the next several days Khan Alex Lassenum visited several of those that the Khan had suggested for the position of saKhan but none of them appeared to be what he wanted. As Khan it was his choice to make and one for the council to approve but if he was unable to make a choice then it would go to a grand melee which could mean he’d end up with anyone as saKhan. Frustrated Alex took to the Mechbay to inspect his Oteon where he saw a young female Blood Spirit warrior attacking a wooden dummy with a thin bladed weapon striking it from various angles. She couldn’t have been older than twenty-four years old she had dark skin and dark braded hail tied in a ponytail which ran part the way down her back. He stood and watched her for several moments before deciding to approach “your technique is flawed warrior.” He said as she watched she ignored him and continued to attack Alex acted quickly grabbing another of the training blades he moved between the training dummy and deflected her attack parrying her blade clear he stepped forwards pushing her back. The warrior struck back driving him towards the dummy but Alex spun out of the way knocking her blade to the side and drawing it under her chin. “One” he said this time she struck back moving quickly towards him knocking his blade to the side and knocking him back Alex ducked under one of her attacks and again brought the blade to the point of striking her. “Two” he said but this time she smiled and glanced to the right he followed her sightline and saw a small blade pointed at his side. “Now we’re talking” he said spinning away from her drawing a smaller blade of his own the two danced across the training mats their blades ‘clinking’ together as they moved fluidly. Around them other warriors and techs stopped what they were doing to watch as the two ‘fought’ neither held back as they each tried to strike the other spinning and striking at each other. Alex lost his training blade and a moment later he struck back knocking the dagger from his opponent’s hand rolling forward he brought his dagger up against her blade locking the two together and finally both were weaponless. He moved forward his arms raised in defence while striking out against her to trip not harm catching her off guard however at the same time she struck him knocking him off balance leading to the two of them on the ground with Alex kneeling over his downed opponent. “Well fought” he said “what is your name?” He asked pulling her back to her feet.
“Mira Collesano” she said standing opposite him the gathered warriors seemed to understand that this was now a private conversation “you fought well, I do not recognize you?”
“You must be the only person in this system who does not.” He said “Alex Lassenum” he said introducing him immediately he her surprised look one which she hid quickly.
“Nice form” she said which he nodded in reply “and an interesting OmniMech choice” she said looking over at the Osteon.
“It has served me well and your BattleMech?”
“A Kingfisher” she said “it was all they had available when I graduated but it has served me well.” She said mirroring his answer the Kingfisher was a survivor in the assault class of OmniMech it featured a standard engine, endo steel and ferro fibrous armour making difficult to kill.
“And what do you thinki of our current path?”
“Our current path” she asked “we are not doing enough against the Society we need to harry them push them and strike where they do not expect.”
“Even if it means over-extending ourselves quiaff?”
“We are the Blood Spirits we stand through all adversity for the cause, my Khan” she said uttering one of the phrases all members of the Clan understood.
“Aff, saKhan” he said making his choice seeing the shock on her face “I need a saKhan that is on the same wave length as me” he said bending down to pick up one of the blades “and one that can keep up.” He said handing her the weapon “report for duty tomorrow morning.” He said collecting up his dagger before leaving the area returning to his OmniMech taking the Osteon out of the bay onto the firing range.
Situation Room, Kraken (Sea Fox-class ArcShip)
Burn-in system, Clipperton
District of Bowang, Free Worlds League
20th May 3110
The modifications that Clan Sea Fox had made to the Kraken had turned it into something closer to a movable space station than the WarShip that it had originally been built as because of this the Kraken was only able to use its station keeping drive to move through a star system escorted by the Jade Lion-class Battle-cruiser Deathstrike. Because of their slow pace representatives from the Clipperton Shipyards had travelled to the ArcShip joining them in deep space. Entering the main Situation Room the guests were led to a large holotank where ovKhan Jessica Sennet stood waiting. “Director Steele, welcome onboard the Kraken, you are just in time” she said greeting him.
“Aff, ovKhan Sennet an impressive vessel you have here I have only seen them at a distance previously.”
“And today heralds another new step forward both for my Clan and for your people the first domestically produced WarShips at Clipperton under the stewardship of Clan Sea Fox and Bowang.” Sennet replied looking at the holo-tank images as the ArcShip finally began to move closer to the planet and the shipyards. “Have you named the vessel that will be launched today Quiaff?”
“Aff, ovKhan we have chosen to name the first Bowang Aumaku-class vessel after Alison Kaning who passed away just a fortnight ago. She brought the people of Bowang to the worlds around them and expanded our influence until we were a founding member of the reborn Free Worlds League. She will always be remembered.” Director Steele said proudly
“I heard that the Captain-General is on Bowang visiting Alison Kaning’s family home to mark her passing?”
“That’s correct” Steele replied he didn’t mention that Captain-General Abraham Ledford did not want to be too closely associated with the Clan following Captain-General Joseph Marik’s image being tarred by his association with the Clan.
“I wish him well” she said ovKhan Jessica Sennet knew as well as Director Steele that the Free Worlds League’s relationship with the Sea Fox balanced on a knife-edge. “And along that line of thought we welcome the FWLS Alison Kaning and the destroyer Mano to the service of the District of Bowang and the sevice of Clan Sea Fox may they serve long and with honour.” She said as the two five hundred-and-thirty thousand ton destroyers cleared the shipyard facility near Clipperton moving under their own power for the first time. The Aumaku-class Destroyer was built like a massive hammerhead shark named and designed along the lines of a native shark to the Bowang system the vessel’s forward section was almost like the head of a hammerhead with two heavy particle cannons forming the basis of the forward firepower. Backing up these were ranks of naval pulse lasers and naval autocannons backed up by a bevy of standard weapons and protected by a heavy array of laser-based anti-missile systems. Twenty aerospace fighters, four small craft and two DropShips rounded out the vessel’s capabilities.
“Seyla” Jessica Sennet said as the two vessels accelerated and passed over the bow of the Kraken each vessel taking its own course beyond the ArcShip the parallel but different courses of the ships also symbolizing the different paths of the District of Bowang and of Clan Sea Fox.
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Nice update
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Damn good update, that destroyer sounds formidable and rest well Khan of Clan Blood Spirit, but long live the new Khan. Excellent stuff as always!
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nice update for sure, I love how the fedsun compleatly understands how to keep things resonably with the clans at this point. Like there are actual thinking humans there.
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First, great update, love seeing where the homeworlds are going - though I disagree with Alex's choice of a saKhan, though she was vetted via relatively clan-like traditions (ie. combat).
nice update for sure, I love how the fedsun compleatly understands how to keep things resonably with the clans at this point. Like there are actual thinking humans there.
The FedSuns has a lot going for them in this setting - much of which were design intentions that have now, at least somewhat, pigeon-holed what Dragon Cat can do with them in a negative fashion. The premise of the setting included the Nova Cats moving to a periphery but entirely independent location and their interactions with the FedSuns - which were primarily reasonable after a couple of fairly small scuffles. They learned much from direct coordination and contact with the clan - even having some small bit of integrated training facilitated through a Nova Cat embassy on New Avalon. Things have slowly grown more tense, but are still at a fairly even-handed level, focusing Nova Cat aggression against a non-neighboring power helped this dramatically. In addition, the Ravens have kept their dealings with the FedSuns minimal, focusing on a more aggressive enemy in the Combine - it doesn't hurt any that there may be some political reticence in attacking a perceived "friendly" power (it could be argued that they have an agent at the highest echelons of the FedSuns government - the wife of the first prince). Lastly, the march lords are mostly controlled or their actions are directed in ways less disastrous than in the post-jihad era, allowing the leadership to thrive in their own areas.
The combination of things has led to them gaining a massive head start in warship production and other wartime industries, as well as being able to prop-up the Lyrans and occasionally blunt offenses from the Combine while managing to continue their crusade against the CapCon. Most conflicts have been very limited, with the Combine usually striking out but being ground to a halt before being turned back within a fairly short time period, the Nova Cats keeping their conflicts with the Suns to being fairly honorable, while the CapCon took a major pounding at a couple points and the FedSuns have refused to let them get back up.
In the end the FedSuns are the current powerhouse of the setting, and something major would need to happen for them to be displaced from where they sit at the top of the dog pile. (and really, I see a couple/few ways this could happen in the relatively near future of the setting, though if any of them end up happening, who knows?)
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In the end the FedSuns are the current powerhouse of the setting, and something major would need to happen for them to be displaced from where they sit at the top of the dog pile. (and really, I see a couple/few ways this could happen in the relatively near future of the setting, though if any of them end up happening, who knows?)
Why did you have to use dog?
Dragons roast/eat dogs
Snakes strangle them
Bulls are probably scared of them
Cats hate them
That's one way of saying their surrounded by enemies
You're right in that they are currently quite well off at the moment but things can change...
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Why did you have to use dog?
In a way it's very fitting as far as the overall BattleTech setting is concerned, every one is attempting to get to the top, to become the alpha, the leader of the Inner Sphere.
That's one way of saying their surrounded by enemies
In this setting, if you aren't surrounded by enemies, you are doing something wrong. :P
Edit:
You're right in that they are currently quite well off at the moment but things can change...
Just to be clear, the Sun's prominence is fully expected, and is very likely where they would have ended up had they not drank Stone's koolaid. While I would love to see them seriously knocked back a few pegs, where they are right now makes a lot of sense to me.
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I'd say there are five or six factions that stand above the rest at the moment (in no particular order)
Federated Suns
Clan Nova Cat
Rasalhague Dominion
Clan Sea Fox
Star League Defence Force
(and the maybe)
Society - they see combat but are growing stronger all the time
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Couldn't sleep and marauder send me something for the Rasalhague Dominion (which hasn't been on the cards for months honest)
Coordinator’s Planning Room
Imperial Palace, New Samarkand
Military District of Midway, Draconis Combine
4th June 3110
“What is with this insane drive towards Benjamin?” Coordinator Akira Kurita demanded looking at the starmap a recent drive by the Federated Suns had seen them seize Marduk, Galtor III, Reisling’s Planet, Hagiwawa, Umijiri and Kitalpha all between the Federated Suns and the District capital of Benjamin.
“Unknown Coordinator” Gunji-no-Kanrei Hirohito Kurita admitted “but their focus has seen us finally secure Fellanin II and we have retaken McComb and Lima.
“That’s not good enough!” He snapped looking back at Warlord “and this Warrior House Sortek are they a Capellan unit working for the Federated Suns?”
“We do not believe so, they appear to be a homegrown unit from House Sortek a strong supporting family of the Davion’s.”
“But the naming Warrior House?” Akira said pacing across the room “it’s almost like they want to spark a conflict with the Capellans” he pondered.
“The Capellan border has been quiet”
“I know!” He shouted again angrily putting down the older man “we wouldn’t be in this position if the Capellans could keep the Federated Suns busy without losing the rest of their realm.”
“We need to move more troops and naval support to the Benjamin District and reinforce Midway’s defences.”
“I agree.”
“Dieron has also requested aid the situation in the Vega Prefecture they say is getting out of hand they cannot funnel enough supplies into Vega to support the worlds. Akira Tormark has again asked to dissolve the Vega Prefecture and allow other regional leaders take over.”
“And give those regional leaders more power? No, tell Tormark to deal with the situation in Vega with the resources he has.”
“He is also trying to stop pirates that appear from nowhere and further Isle of Skye attacks!” Hirohito Kurita said raising his own voice bringing an angry glance from the Coordinator.
“Vega is an internal matter which the Duke should be able to deal with he is a Warlord of the Draconis Combine the Rasalhague Dominion has done him a favour by taking those systems from the Lyrans the Isle will be distracted. All Tormark has to do is reroute JumpShips into the region and have his troops crack down on dissidents.” He explained briefly touching on the recent Dominion annexation of Eaglesham and Phalan from the Lyrans after an Isle of Skye JumpShip bound for the Vega Prefecture took a short-cut through Dominion space.
“That will lead to casualties.” Hirohito cautioned
“They speak out against their Coordinator and their nation” Akira Kurita said coldly “have the troops use non-lethal weapons where they can Dieron needs to deal with this situation by their selves for now we need to cut off the Davions.”
“We have a plan to use McComb and Lima as a launching point, to drive through New Ivaarsen and to launch attacks on Robinson but the plan will not be ready until next month.” He said the Coordinator shot him another look “ships only travel so fast.”
“We need to do more” he said looking at the Combine/Suns/Raven border “like here” he said pointing at the backwater border world of Capra it should be important a meeting point between three nations but all three tended to ignore it. “This area of the Draconis March is under defended. We strike and drive towards the Crucis March. We threaten the Davion’s heartland and they will pull back.”
“The years have been good to the Federated Suns they have reserves we have faced the Ravens, Bears and Lyrans. We cannot launch a twin offensive it is one plan or the other.”
“Then we drive through Capra ignore the meat grinder that will be Robinson and aim for the Crucis March.” He said “redeploy our Robinson offensive troops to Capra.”
“Yes Coordinator” Hirohito replied looking at the map the Combine were half a dozen worlds from striking at Robinson but they were more than a dozen from the Crucis March. He knew that they needed to increase recruitment and raise more Regular units, they also needed to move their focus from the Ravens and onto the bigger threats of the Federated Suns and Rasalhague Dominion.
Thirty-seventh Star League Games, Star League Stadium
Solaris City, Solaris VII
Independent World
14th June 3110
As fighting envelops the Succession States and several of the Clans the Star League Games continue on Solaris with the Thirty-seventh Star League Games at the Star League Stadium. As with every year competitors from across the Inner Sphere representing nations, Clans and independents entered desiring to become the newest Star League champion. From nearly the beginning to the end of the fighting there was only one real competitor in the battle. As others fought grudge matches representing nations Star Colonel Lesley Helmer a ristar of Clan Jade Falcon piloting a Gryfalcon BattleMech fought for one thing, victory, despite receiving several warnings from the competitions judges for targeting enemy BattleMech’s cockpits there was no other that could match the speed or ferocity of the Jade Falcon warrior and a Thirty-fifth champion of the Star League Games was crowned (the eighteenth and twentieth games both lacked champions due to external forces).
Macy’s Bar, Kopara
Badlands, Twin Sons
District of Lesnovo, Free Worlds League
20th June 3110
After months being laid up following the fighting on Twin Sons Petra Furey was ready to return to duty and serve the Twin Sons and the Free Worlds League but she didn’t know exactly what she wanted after being injured on her own homeworld. Instead she found herself at Macy’s Bar in the town of Kopara in an area of the Badlands her parents had always advised her to avoid and an area that if her CO knew she was in he’d probably drum her out of service.
Sitting at what looked like an ancient table she sat staring at the drained drink tankard thinking about getting another when a good looking male patron sat down opposite her placing down another two drinks. “I’m not interested.”
“How is that a way to greet a visitor bringing drinks?” He asked from his accent and tone she realized he was another descendant of the small dark caste population based on Twin Suns.
“I am now interested” she repeated
“You do not even know what I was going to say.” He said as a young female sat down at the table “good evening Jessica” he said she nodded and looked at Petra.
“Is she in?”
“I am not interested” Petra said for a third time as a third member of the party sat at the table he was older and very obviously of Elemental stock “really guys what is this?” She demanded getting annoyed at the interruption but at the same time a little concerned. She moved to pick up the offered drink with one hand and undid the safety on her sidearm with her other hand.
“You think we will hurt you Petra Furey?” The first male asked obviously picking up on her movement she almost cursed but remained silent. “I would have thought you would have found us kindred spirits” he said “we want the same thing as you.”
“Which is?”
“Protection for our people, peace on Twin Sons and a strong District of Lesnovo” he said immediately.
“Our people?”
“The Smoke Jaguars” he said the other two nodded “dark caste isn’t exactly something people can rally behind.”
“Keep your voice down” Petra said looking around the bar the Smoke Jaguar tag was hardly a popular one on Twin Sons beyond the Port Arthur settlement and hated within the Inner Sphere. Instead of being intimidated by the potential problems it might cause he stood up wiping his brown hair to one side.
“Ladies and Gentlemen of Macy’s Bar I am Flintoff Weaver and I am a Smoke Jaguar!” He said loudly so everyone in the bar could hear him.
“HAIL!” The bar responded once before going back to there own business as Flintoff sat down.
“We are all Jaguars here, or at least our parents were, not many trueborns left other and Massa here” he said indicating to his Elemental companion. Looking around the bar Petra saw similar bodylines and behaviour from most of the patrons not all of them were of Jaguar blood but they obviously had nothing against those who did she didn’t know why they were not all at Port Arthur but she guessed she’d get an answer here.
“What do you want with me?” She asked looking back at them.
“Join us” Flintoff said “embrace your inner Smoke Jaguar and help us fix the wrongs on Twin Suns and beyond.” He said finally making his plans clear a plan which would ultimately lead to the rebirth of Clan Smoke Jaguar.
Rasalhague Dominion Raid
Vega, Vega Prefecture
Miliary District of Dieron, Draconis Combine
24th June 3110
After the bombing of the Rasalhauge Bloodchapel that had killed the Khan and many of the Bloodnamed, with no obvious culprit, the tensions on the Dominion and Combine border were high. To keep their troops from striking out on their own, the newly promoted and minted Commanders hurriedly put in place to replace those killed had their troops carrying out large numbers of exercises. In well documented and broadcast events, Exercise POLAR STAR involved several WarShips and one full Galaxy’s worth of troops simulating an attack against a world as the Bears attempted to keep their population's confidence in their military. There was also a spate of tit for tat Trials with the Coyotes. Although no worlds changed hands, it kept the Warriors of both Clan’s sharp and netted both sides some valuable salvage.
Still there was a series of Trials and reprisal raids against the Combine. The Dominion’s military was angry, and the lack of any lead about who had caused the bombing, along with the flow of refugees over the border from the Vega Prefecture was just making things worse.
Elements of the Fifth Bear Guards launched a raid on Outer Volta, not to claim it but just to attack the Combine defenders. Despite heavy losses the Bear’s left half of the Fifteenth Ghost Regiment in terrible shape with entire Companies wrecked.
On Luzerne the Combine retaliated when two Battalions of the Fourteenth Ghost Regiment launched a reprisal raid, aiming at taking supplies and Clan equipment. They were resisted by forces from the Thirtieth Provisional Garrison Cluster as well as large numbers of volunteers who helped dig trenches and supply extra infantry, freeing up the Thirtieth to fully counter the Combine attackers. Here honours were roughly even but the Combine unit did not get as much salvage as they were after.
There were a few short but sharp skirmishes in space as well on the border of the Vega Province. A Combine Tramp-class JumpShip jumped in above Port Moseby as a civilian registered vessel it launched three DropShips full of refugees whom burned towards the planet declaring their surrender and requesting humanitarian aid. Behind them a Combine Achillies detached from the JumpShip demanding that the refugees return to the JumpShip and broadcasting an apology to the Rasalhague defenders for their error in jumping into the system.
At the Rasalhague Dominion jump point picket the commander and crew of the Vanir-class DropShip Thunder at Night had a split second decision to make allow the Achilles to track down the civilians and possibly end up shooting them down or stop the DCMS vessel. Their choice made the Thunder of Night acted interposing herself between the Combine Achillies and the civilian DropShips demanding the Achilles immediate and unconditional surrender.
Refusing the Thunder of Night's orders to stand down the Achilles opened fire, initiating a duel between the two that saw the Thunder at Night badly damaged but the Achilles was crippled and boarded. Several days later the three civilian vessels landed on Port Moseby and were surrounded by the elite troops of the First Polar Bear Assault Cluster who didn't completely trust that the civilian ships were what they said they were. As the ships doors opened the Bears found a wave of civilians crammed into the vessel and in need of immediate medical attention.
Above the operational mess diplomatically the Combine and Dominion were barely talking with one another. Demands to return refugees were met with cold silence as were demands to stop them coming.
So the tit for tat raids had gone on for months. At some of the refugee camps the Workers and Merchants trying to organise the camps were overwhelmed and when a food shipment was delayed due to a technical problem with a JumpShip’s drive, there was a riot by hungry, tired and just exhausted Combine civilians who had run to the Dominion for help and found a situation developing which was as bad as the Combine.
The additional strain the re-routing of JumpShips and DropShips was slowing the Rasalhague Dominion economy and this was not helped by the redeployment of so many JumpShips to help with military manoeuvres.
The elevation of Michael Hawkins to Khan didn’t help matters either. Something of a traditionalist, he resented the power that people he viewed as Civilians had amongst the Dominion and his relationship with the Royal Family and Council were cold but cordial at best. The elevation of Delta Galaxy’s Angela Bekker to the post of saKhan was seen as a move to balance the leadership of the Clan by many. But his attitude towards the situation on the Combine border was that of a Clan Warrior, he met force with force.
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Upon receiving the simple signal ‘Maul’ that, was broadcast via HPG, Vega fell. Not the world, but the entire Prefecture thirteen Combine worlds targeted by the Bears in one move.
A Dominion task group centred around the Rasalhague as well as the Conqueror Tseng and their escorting destroyers the Bergen and Norge made the jump into the Vega system, appearing at the Pirate Point near Vega herself, DropShips detaching minutes after appearing.
In these craft were Mechs from Epsilon Galaxy including several Watch Detachments and their ‘Special Service’ Mech’s drawn from the Dominions Strategic reserves. By far Epsilon Galaxy was the strongest in all of the Rasalhague Dominion’s forces commanded by the newly minted saKhan Angela Bekker and supplemented by the saKhan’s own cluster the Eighth Bear Cuirassiers the unit moved swiftly and hit with an unprecedented force.
As the lead elements of Epsilon hit Vega, other Clusters were hitting Aubisson, Shinoha, Alnasl and Tsukude. On all five worlds with a lacked of military control from Dieron and the coordination needed from Vega following the bombings there months before, fighting had broken out over who was in command, with some officers refusing commands from those of senior rank but junior service or in one case over a matter of one Officer being promoted a mere two weeks ahead of a rival who refused to accept his seniority.
On Vega though Chu-sa Naomi Tiberias still commanded the loyalty of her units after some rather brutal displays of discipline enacted upon units and civilians who, in her view, were disloyal to the Draconis Combine and counter-productive to the solution on the world.
And it was onto his HQ complex that Epson's Eighth Bear Cuirassiers and the Second Polar Bear Assault Cluster dropped whilst fighters from the clusters and WarShips bombed and strafed any target of opportunity.
The Dominion broadcast to the worlds that they were bringing order to the chaos, that they would bring food, water and protection to civilians from those who would abuse them. With the new Coordinator distracted by fighting with the Ravens, Federated Suns and Lyrans and unable, or unwilling, to respond to the troubles on Vega what little organised military forces that were not fighting amongst themselves fell quickly. Head hunter strikes and heavy air and artillery attacks preceded Epsilon’s assaults and many of the local 'warlords' who claimed overall command over the Prefecture, in the Coordinators name of course, were killed at the onset of the Dominions assault.
Despite the chaos that had consumed the Prefecture, some units fought exceptionally hard. The Third Dieron Regulars Regiment was reduced to 10% operational Mech’s by the time its Commander, a young Sho’sa accepted an offer of Surrender, in doing so his forces had gutted the as well as elements of the First Polar Bear Battle Cluster with his defiance. Granted Safcon the survivors were allowed to board dropships and depart the Prefecture with honour intact but the fighting for Vega was over and the world, along with several others were already secured by the Rasalhague Dominion troops.
The Ares Might was scuttled by her crew during the initial attack on New Wassen. Part of the orbital defences included a pair of Nekohono’o Assault DropShips and although both DropShips were destroyed, both had launched a swarm of assault shuttles loaded with Raiden clad Battle armour. With the primary magazines lost to them the Captain of the Ares Might ordered the reactor’s safeties to be disabled even as the Combine assault forces stormed the bridge. The massive explosion as the fusion reaction consumed the ship was visible from the surface, but it was just part of the backdrop for many as Dominion and Combine forces fought tooth and nail over the world’s Space Ports and communication centres as New Wassen also joined the Rasalhague Dominion.
Road to New Egypt
Forsair, Vega
Military District of Dieron, Draconis Combine
24th June 3110
Convoy escort had not been where Major Morgan Christofori had wanted to be during the Invasion of Vega by Rasalhague Dominion forces but that was where he was and the people of New Egypt were relying on his unit to get the supplies to their destination. It had been part of a bigger plan to gain the trust of the locals and possibly find out who started the mess on the planet that was until the Bears had arrived.
Hit from multiple directions his company had lost three BattleMechs in less than two minutes four of their convoy vehicles destroyed. Morgan closed his eyes for a moment and remembered turning on a charging Karhu blasting it with his Clan made lasers but the sixty-five ton OmniMech would not be stopped and moments later it slammed into him with its retractable blade slicing away the right arm. Morgan had povited and fired his Medium Pulse Lasers burning the Karhu at point blank range but the OmniMech would not be stopped a particle projection cannon blast burned his right torso destroying two of the pulse lasers while another attack with the blade had smashed armour. He’d tried to move away using his Penetrator’s jump jets but the Karhu hadn’t stopped its attack with another particle cannon blast bursting through his Pentrator’s rear armour smashing directly into the fusion engine. Knocked off balance by the strike and falling forward Morgan had no choice but to punch out of the BattleMech his ejection seat throwing him across the battlefield before the parachutes deployed slowing his descent. As he fell towards the ground he saw what was left of his company be overrun the Bears he hoped the other elements of the Ninety-fifth Special Operations Battalion had done better. Landing hard in the undergrowth he’d tried to wriggle from the command chair and grab his sidearm but before he could an Elemental stepped up to him and swung its Battle Claw down disarming him and probably breaking his right hand. As he was dragged along the ground Morgan remembered seeing his shattered command couch remembering that it was his father’s seat, his father’s BattleMech, and he’d let him down as he drifted into unconsciousness.
Tomad’s Burrow
Baxter, Vega Prefecture
Military District of Dieron, Draconis Combine
28th June 3110 2247 local time
“Chu-sa, a message from Tai-I Genda, he’s got the ammunition convoy moving, he had to commandeer a Kiso to clear a route and is requesting that we send forces to help escort him in.”
“Tell Genda we’ve none to spare, those Bear bastards are hitting us hard, the Akagi river has been breached and there’s at least two Supernova’s moving out from Zeon Starport.”
Chu-sa Sayami looked at his perimeter. The holo-display gave cold, hard numbers and force dispositions but it wasn’t a match for eyes on the ground. The Epsilon Galaxy forces had been fighting very un-Clanlike but then again their attacks had been very effective.
“Damn it…we need that ammo, get Sho-ko Nordh’s armour to support Genda, and tell Gunsho Shin to deploy her battle armour with them and provide close support for the tanks.
“Hai Chu-sa!” The Lieutenant, one of Sayami’s original cadre before this mess had started saluted before running out of the command bunker that was buried under what had been a shopping centre. The Dominion were bombing and strafing command posts and with their warships overhead they were looking for command posts and strong EM signatures so his command post was in a shopping centre’s basement and all messages were delivered by runners or by wired telephones, crude as all hell but effective and it had kept him alive when the Bears dropped on his world and neighbouring units had gone off the air.
His surviving troops were a mixture of his forces from the Sixteenth Legion of Vega as well as stragglers from the local Baxter militia that had snapped back to reason and stopped fighting one another. With the world at risk there was more at stake than personal honour.
“Sir, the Black Bear’s have been sighted at grid 14 by 29, moving north east.”
“Understood, raise Chu-i Matsuda and order her out of that area, they could be hunting or they could be on patrol, we can’t lose her lances in the confines of the Industrial district.”
“Hai!”
The Colonel bit back a curse before taking a swig from his water bottle, the so called ‘Black Bears’ were a group of five Mech’s, all some type of Kodiak and they’d been instrumental in gutting several positions in the battle for the Starport before going on a rampage through an assault lance belonging to the Sixteenth. They’d even broadcast them pulling an Atlas apart before Tai-i Morgen’s Battlemaster fell at their hands as well.
No, these troops were not like normal Clanners at all like Vega before it Baxter quickly succumb to the Bear onslaught as the Rasalhague Dominion extended its control over the Combine Prefecture.
Defence Lines
Gram, Military District of Dieron
Draconis Combine
28th June 3110 1742 local time
The air was alive with gunfire, heavy roars of autocannons, the buzz saw snarl of HAGs and scream of missiles contested with the electronic ripping sound of lasers and the thunderous pulse of particle cannons and all Hojuhei Tanna wanted to do was dig her way deeper into her trench, cradling her Type 2001 rifle as close as she could, teeth clenched tight in terror.
Like the rest of her unit she was a ‘volunteer’ that had been drafted up at gun point to fight but now she couldn’t even run. The military Police had set up behind the volunteer’s trench lines and the bastards had made it clear that their first targets were not any attacker, but them. Cursing the injustice of everything, she managed to pick herself up as the firestorm swept overhead, managing to peek over the lip of the trench.
A few kilometres away, as Hill 203 flattened out into plains she could see Combine Mech’s engaging the Dominion attackers, but it was a forlorn hope, a few dozen against scores. Still she, like everyone else cheered when a Dominion Vulture vanished in a fireball as its ammo cooked off but that was only at that part of the line. A group of Clan Mech’s was making its ascent, stomping up the muddy hill that had once been a park, but now the only ‘flowers’ there were of the anti-personnel and anti-vehicle type and the only ‘bushes’ were tangles of barbed wire.
There was a loud BOOM as a dug in Tokugawa opened fire. The tank had been dug in and half buried under rubble to camouflage it and now its autocannon opened fire, sending streams of shot down the hill. It was an old vehicle, powered by an unreliable ICE engine and had been discovered in some old war stocks and hurriedly refuelled and re-armed to take part in the fighting.
It got three shots out before a volley of laser light smashed into its turret, boiling away the mud that had been thrown over it to hide it before punching into the armour. Engine revving the tank started to move back to another fire position but a particle bolt ripped through the turret and ended the tank and its crews service to the Combine in a massive explosion.
Tanna cursed ‘Warlord’ Mayamoto for refusing to move his command post; she cursed the wet mud sucking at her boots, and the Dominion for attacking her world.
“Stand up and fight! Ignore the Mechs, target the battle armour!”
There were a few cracks and then more as the platoon let rip with their bolt action rifles, fear of the dark armoured shapes running up the muddy hill, fear of the men behind them with machine guns should they break adding to their ‘encouragement’ as they fired round after round at their attackers.
The Dominion Rogue Bear’s returned fire, snarling machine guns sending plumes of mud and water into the air as they tore up the ground around the trenches trying to suppress the Combine defenders. The leading elements of the Second Tyr Assault Cluster were moving behind them, ignoring the infantry fight at their feet, their guns flattening bunkers or heat sources that indicated a tank or gun position. The five Kingfishers chosen for their durability were working their way up the hill whilst the rest of the Cluster slowly dismantled the Combine position.
Hojuhei Tanna snapped off a shot at a blue and white painted battle suit, the round sparking harmlessly off its thick plate and she could only watch in horror as it jumped into the Trench ahead of hers, its brutal vibro-claws making quick and messy work of the four troops in the firing pit. The machine guns were firing now, fortunately not at her or he squad, pouring lead into the Bear Elementals and one collapsed on its face, its pilot either injured or dead but there was a LOT more coming up behind it.
Tanna screamed as one of the Dominion suits thundered towards her, emptying her magazine before scrambling down the trench as its booted feet thudded down behind her. Her rifle didn’t have a bayonetted and she had no more ammo and as the suit turned towards her she knew that this was her time to die, but she was determined to die on her feet, brandishing her rifle like a club. The Bear suit raised its arm, its clawed hand opening before Tanna’s world went white as she fell into the mud of the trenches.
She awoke two hours later, her ears still ringing from the effects of the stunner. Woozy and dazed she was with other prisoners taken during the assault. Up on the top of Hill 203 the flag of the Dominion had replaced the Combine one that flew there and the ‘Warlords’ Hatomoto-Chi was a smoking wreck, its gold and blue armour blackened and rent by gun fire.
Dominion Elementals kept a sharp eye on their prisoners whilst medics from both sides moved amongst the wounded, helping those who they could, giving comfort to those they could not.
“Hey, drink this, the ringing will stop eventually, give it an hour or so.”
The speakers voice was rather heavily accented and his Japanese was atrocious but his meaning clear as the somewhat vague shape swimming before Tanna’s eyes came into focus as he bent down and passed her a water bottle. High in the sky there was a ball of fire and smoke falling towards the ground, shedding parts of itself as it burned up in the atmosphere. Tanna Nagai didn’t know that it was the Ursa Minor, rammed by a Combine DropShip, finally giving up her battle with the gravity well of the planet, her engines dead. Her crew had managed to evacuate and the largest chunks of her hull were predicted to come down in the Southern Ocean.
“Did…did we win?”
“No, but you did win your freedom from your oppressors."
It had cost the Rasalhague Dominion more than they had expected but Gram like Baxter, New Wassen, Eltanin and the rest of the Vega Prefecture had fallen.
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The Dominion lost an Aegis and a York from my reading of the battle for Vega.
How many did the DC lose.
I think the DC should forget about the FS and make peace, the Dominion are angry. O0
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I'll just say that the Dominion has got what it wanted. And reminded everyone that you do not poke the bear less you want this to happen.
(http://i.imgur.com/oqVwBTp.gif)
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It's raining bears. >:D
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It's raining bears. >:D
Hallelujah!
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Looks like the Protectorate's days maybe numbered. Clans are streaming towards the candy filled center of the Inner Sphere.
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Great update, I was wondering how the Bears would end up with their "Vega Protectorate" or even if they would in this timeline. It's also a fairly characteristic example of the Bears - limited conflict but overwhelming firepower.
One thing I notice is that there wasn't a large number of units in the area so overall losses to the Combine weren't particularly horrible, though between the Ravens and Bears, they are probably down around 5% of their beginning of the year ground forces - naval-wise things aren't so okay, with somewhere around 10%. The loss of territory may or may not be a good thing, while Vega itself was decently industrialized, most of the other worlds weren't large contributors to the nation's industry - and Vega's had been marginalized over the last year or two as stuff's been going down there.
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Great update, I was wondering how the Bears would end up with their "Vega Protectorate" or even if they would in this timeline. It's also a fairly characteristic example of the Bears - limited conflict but overwhelming firepower.
/quote]
I'm sure Dragon Cat will back me up here, basically this was a naked land grab disguised as humanitarian relief.
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I'd say there are five or six factions that stand above the rest at the moment (in no particular order)
Federated Suns
Clan Nova Cat
Rasalhague Dominion
Clan Sea Fox
Star League Defence Force
(and the maybe)
Society - they see combat but are growing stronger all the time
I was going to go into huge detail in a reply about this but realized it was mostly a waste of time. So I'll basically sum up my thoughts here. In a head-to-head battle with no need to worry about what happens afterwards or what has happened before, the FedSuns will, absolutely, come out on top in any one-on-one battle with any of these forces at this point in time. With any of the clans, in a head-to-head battle there are only a few which would be able to come out on top in space against the Lyrans, likely the weakest of the void navies of the major states (which I no longer count the Capellans among at the moment). On the ground if any of the major successor states were to focus completely against a single clan, the clan would die - that they can't do that prevents this from happening.
The Nova Cats have the benefit of now being the pre-eminent naval clan, having just barely surpassed the Ravens due to the losses suffered during the second Raven-Combine war. This is really just barely beating the Ravens out though. The only clan which could reasonably take them on would be the Ghost Bears, which would be able to cause enough damage in space that the ragged remains would unlikely to be able to contribute significantly to the ground battle, where the Dominion would reign supreme.
There's not much left to tell for the Dominion, they are very likely dominant among the clans at the moment, but still wouldn't be able to halt a concerted effort by any of the major Inner Sphere powers.
The Foxes have the largest industrial capacity among the clans, being able to support themselves as well as prop up fully two additional clans - small though their current forces are (Falcons and Mandrills). They have massive potential and them being spread out all over the place both benefits and hinders them in conflict - they would be difficult to annihilate, but each individual force is comparatively weak and easy pickings for a real opponent.
The SLDF on the other hand is a massive defensively focused state - a huge portion (~30%) of their combat fleet is stuck over certain worlds, but they still have a very capable army. Overall, they currently stand second fiddle to the FedSuns, but with Fenwick they may be able to overcome that issue with a bit of time.
Lastly, the Society, while their actual strength is unknown, probably couldn't stand up to any of the Inner Sphere clans in a straight fight. Their strengths lie is their ability to make specific but massively destructive war in using genetic germ warfare - they would have a much much harder time focusing on any of the spheroid powers (and given a bit more time, the Dominion, Empire, and Alliance as they integrate more of their Inner Sphere populations into their militaries).
PS. Yes, this is my short version. :-[
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It'll be a couple of days before I have anything ready so I'll answer a comment or two
snakespinner - the Rasalhague Dominion lost two WarShips - the Combine none
snakespinner & JA Baker - lol (I'd say you win the thread but then the story would be over and can't have that)
Wrangler - well...
Vition/marauder - the Bear reaction was 100% Bear they are pissed at what happened to their Council and they have chaos on their border. So yes it was a land grab but also a necessary one they needed to bring some sense of peace to their border and make someone pay for what happened. If it was the right or wrong target who knows...
Vition - great analysis (as usual) and thanks for investing in the story enough to think that through and share it. I agree individually the Suns could probably steamroll most at the moment. The problem is one of BattleTech's great points. The piranha and the shark. One state might be bigger and badder than their neighbour but all those around will feed on their bones.
If the Federated Suns finished off the Capellans (a bit like end of fourth Succession War here) the FWL, Taurians, Nova Cats, Combine and Ravens would benefit from a weaker Suns.
If the Ravens turned on the Suns they'd face the Combine wanting territory back.
If the Capellans tried to get territory back... they'd probably get slapped
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remember don't poke the Rasalhague Dominion... 8)
Right now they are acting out like "revenge" that makes them dangerous... They don't care what happens they just want to make someone pay, they don't care who.
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Pffft. I don't go to Sian, I don't fight for wackos, and I ain't afraid of no bears!
:)
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:'(My thanks to marauder for the Shirke piece and Vition for the Raven part
Minette New Service, HPG Broadcast
Minette PDZ, Crucis March
Federated Suns
4th July 3110
“In conclusion is there an unidentified WarShip moving through the Crucis March? We do not know. So far all we can confirm that JumpShips have seen shadows and radiation surges in places there should be nothing. Neither MIIO or the Federated Suns Naval Command are willing to comment on rumours nor are they willing to confirm deployments of naval craft in the territories of the Federated Suns however everyone is advised to be wary and report anyting that they believe to be suspicious to the relevant authorities.” The broadcaster said as the transmission ended Stefan Banacek glanced over at Star Captain Gerry Harper.
“See what I said to you this ship has not even engaged an AFFS unit and already there are rumours.”
“How are we supposed to avoid being cornered by them if already they talk about us?” Harper wondered beginning to wonder if attempting to run through the periphery instead of the Federated Suns.
“This ship is like a technitians multi-tool” Banacek suggested but Harper didn’t seem to grasp the idea “you need to stop thinking like a Star Captain of Clan Snow Raven. You need to think like a pirate” he said seeing Harper’s disgust “your ship is a jump capable tool which is able to travel through multiple systems with a full battery charge you don’t need to travel close to stars.”
“We still will need to engage JumpShips, DropShips or land on planets to gather resources to keep this WarShip operational.”
“Aff, but the Sceptre does not need to approach a system we could send land teams…”
“And again we need to rely on your forces?” He asked irritated at the man over the last week twice Banacek had suggested his unit be used in action while the Sceptre remained out of contact with their enemies.
“Neg, given the AFFS interest in our whereabouts the appearance of an Overlord C-class DropShip on any planet will gain attention.” He suggested to which Harper nodded “instead I suggest we jump into the outer reaches of a system and deploy small teams on small craft. They head into a star system and land on a planet there they make small trades and act like traders while we remain silent in the outer reaches of the system.” He said “that way we can gather intelligence without the AFFS knowing of our position or plans.”
“That can only go so far, we will have to engage them.”
“Aff, but at our time and our choosing”
Raven Clan Council Hall
Dante
Raven Alliance
12th July, 3110
Taking his place on the podium Khan Vir Sukhanov addresses the council with optimism, “After our successful invasion of the Combine, I now bring both good and bad news to the council. Despite efforts to reinvigorate the units I must remove three clusters from the rolls of the touman, to that end Epsilon Galaxy’s Solahma cluster, the Eighth Garrison cluster, and the Fifteenth Battle cluster have been disbanded.” He lets these words sink in before continuing, “In better news, I have expanded the units assigned to the Watch, the remains of the Eighth Garrison form a core to the Second Rangers. And we have removed the Combine as a threat to our borders, thanks in no small part to Star Admiral Rhai McKenna, whose leadership devastated the local Combine fleet. She has recently been placed in charge of our first Arbitration-class warship, the Dauntless.” Vir intentionally does not mention that her rise was due to his error in calculating the aggressiveness the Combine would display.
Now came the more controversial part, “As many of you know, we have a new Galaxy Commander among us, may I formally introduce Astrid Ramora, previously commanding the Fourth Guards.” Murmurs are heard throughout the chamber as he includes a new Bloodname in her introduction, near the back a pair of hands clap as Star Colonel Bran McTiernen looks on with expectation and commitment to his new commanding officer, this singular clap grows to a roar as the rest of the council takes part.
The rest of the council finishes without serious uproar, but lays out the current state of the clan. The creation of a second bloodname Raldamax had been granted to a ProtoMech pilot who had defeated two opposing BattleMechs in single combat. News of this had spread quickly through the Touman with ProtoMech pilots already vying for the right to gain this new Bloodname and add their own genes to its heritage. The report from the Quatre Belle yards was frustrating indicating that the Dauntless would not be ready until 3112, and while repair has been started on the slips the yard will not be back to it’s prior capabilities for another year or two.
Later in the month, Nexus Ri hosts the first pair of trials over the worlds disputed by the Ravens and Combine. The first trial results in a Raven loss as the Alpha Battalion of the Ryuken-Go dispatches their opposing Ninth Raven Garrison, though the match is very close as the Ninth’s aggression nearly causes the Ryuken’s left flank to collapse, only being held through experience and sheer determination. The second trial pits the Beta Battalion against elements of the Seventh Raven Garrison, it quickly turns into a battle of maneuver eventually leading to the quicker clan units placing the Combine units in an extremely disadvantageous position, Beta surrenders with very few actual shots being made. The results of the trials put Pondicherry back in the hands of the Combine and Rushaven back in the hands of the Alliance.
Loremaster of the Clans office
City of Andrey, Tuyakkid
Independent Clan territory
13th July 3110
Star Colonel Arnesta Devalis stood nervously in front of Loremaster of the Clans Brennley Roshak the younger woman. “There are things that we need to know that we currently do not.” She said explaining Arnesta’s presence in her office.
“We are allowed the trial against the other Clans and the Inner Sphere.”
“Aff, but we cannot learn all we wish to learn from Trials alone.” Roshak explained “even the Clans themselves are not completely aware of some of the troubles we face. Which is why I have chosen to form a new Watch, one belongs to Tukayyid, one which serves our interests and those of the Clans.”
“And one that the Clans ae not aware of Quiaff?”
“Aff for now Star Colonel until we have learned what we need to protect ourselves and the other Clans.”
“Deception is not honourable.”
“Neg, it is not, but if it was not effective then the Inner Sphere would currently belong to us which it does not.” Roshak replied “I do not like the need for a Watch but I do see the need for one.” She said “you have been selected to form and command these warriors.”
“An honour” Devalis replied with not a hint of sarcasm “I am a warrior I am not a spy.”
“Then you will need to learn to be both Star Colonel” Brennley Roshak said moving around the desk to look at the other officer “I need you to be both Star Colonel the safety of Tukayyid depends on it.”
Testing Hanger
Hamarr, Sudeten
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
17th July 3110
Chief Scientist Heymer and her staff all bowed as Khan Jaina Pryde entered the hangar. Save for a few Technicians and Labourers the group of Scientists, the Khan and a hulking brute from her Keshik were the only people in the hangar.
“My Khan, thank you for taking time out of your schedule to come, we are all honoured by your presence.”
“Trying to butter me up before we begin are we Chief Scientist Heymer?” Khan Pryde narrowed her eyes, but there was the hint of a smile on her lips as the Scientist bowed once more, not meeting her gaze.
“Neg my Khan, I am merely speaking the truth.”
“Indeed… now, what do you have for us?” There was a cold edge to Pryde’s voice, she was not one to reward failure and with the resources diverted for this latest project, failure was not an option for any involved.
The Scientist smiled nervously and gestured towards a large display screen.
“As you know, the Turkina has been our premier Assault Mech since 3052 but we feel it has come to the end of its development cycle barring major and extensive redesigns. As this would not be cost effective, we took the approach of looking at using an existing chassis as frame for a replacement or at least to act as a supplemental machine as the Turkina is far from obsolete.”
The holo sprang to life, showing the familiar shape of an Onager.
“We took the Onager chassis and stripped it…”
“Hopefully of its Improved Jump Jets” the Khan’s bodyguard interrupted, his words a threatening rumble that was laden with menace.
“Aff! Whilst powerful they are too heavy to be efficient on so large a machine. So instead we stripped it to the skeleton and reinforced the main joints whilst adding five tons of mass.” Scientist Heymer tried not to sound too scared, but soon settled back into her steady, calm way of speaking.
The image of the Mech rotated, showing it being reduced to a skeleton before it started to grow and change. The Chief Scientist handed over to one of her colleagues who talked about the engine and the changes there but all could see the Khan was either getting bored or becoming impatient with the deluge of ‘minor details’.
“Yes but what of the weapons and performance?” The Khan sounded bored, not a good sign for those giving the presentation.
“Our initial prototype featured a gauss rifle but we have replaced it with an imported Hell’s Horses HAG-20. As time goes on we hope to open production of the weapon ourselves…” She began but the Khan’s glance made it clear that it was a topic for another day. “Keeping the same tactical paradigm as the Gyrfalcon that is now entering service this new Mech is built to engage at long range with precision weapons fire. Spheroid Mechs or those used by the Dominion tend to be crude clubs; this is a rapier to be wielded by our expert and honourable Warriors.”
The Scientist nodded and there was a dull rumble as one of the Mech bay’s blast doors slid open and light spilled out. Perhaps it was intended but the result was quite impressive as a large bipedal Battlemech came into view, floodlights illuminating its freshly painted armour, proudly baring the jade green of a Turkina Keshik Mech. The Mech’s left arm was a long multi-barrelled type of HAG, whilst a large laser sat in a flexible mounting on each shoulder.
The right hand was a hooked claw, based in part on the Onager’s but instead of straight, almost scissor like blades, this Mech’s hand actuator was shaped into a trio of sharp looking claws, their tips painted a deep red.
The Scientists had clearly put considerable work into the shape of the design, long gone was the bulky, inelegant frame of the Onager. This machine was far sleeker despite its greater mass and its cockpit wasn’t some blocky affair but shaped more like a bird of prey’s hooked beak. This avian look was massively reinforced by the huge Partial Wing system, locked into its combat configuration, splayed and raised, the undersides a brilliant yellow.
“Magnificent… Is it ready to be taken out for testing?” Khan Pryde drank in the sight of the Mech before her. It was an avatar and a weapon, a towering monster that would strike fear into those who saw it and inspire those who followed it; she sounded and looked a bit awed.
“Aff my Khan, all weapons are active and a full war load is on board.” Heymer stated proudly, glad at the reaction from the Khan even as her face dropped as the Falcon’s leader walked passed her, heading towards the crew gantry to climb into her Mech.
“My Khan, if you will head this way we will be able to observe the Trial between this Mech and its opponent a Turkina Prime.”
“I will be taking it into battle.” It wasn’t a request, it was an order.
“But… this is a live fire exercise...”
“I agree my Khan; we should let the test pilot take it out.” That came from Star Captain Victor Malthus and at his voice Khan Pryde stopped and turned her face as cold as the void.
“You doubt my abilities quiaff?”
“Neg!” Warrior and Scientist stated at the same time.
“Good. Do not tell my opponent who they are facing, or you will face me I wish this to be a true test one which the other warrior does not hold back from.”
“A-aff my Khan” Chief Scientist Heymer said as Khan Pryde got onto the gantry lift. She was suddenly immensely glad they had installed the Clans first full head ejection system into this new Mech.
“If anything happens to her, I will hold you personally responsible. Do I make myself clear Chief Scientist?” The Khan’s bodyguard was behind Heymer, she didn’t hear him move, but she felt the grip of his hand on her shoulder and could see the alarmed looks from some of her colleagues who would not dare help if the Warrior decided to punish their superior for any failure, real or perceived. The Scientist nodded slightly, her throat suddenly dry.
“A-Aff…I accept any and all responsibility.”
“Good. The Khan likes you, but fail her and there will not be enough left of you to identify your body. Am I clear?” The Star Captain’s voice was even, steady, he wasn’t making a threat, he was stating a fact.
“Aff”
“Reactor Online, Sensors Online, Weapon systems Online, All systems nominal.” Moving into the Circle of Equals the Mech was running well. It only took her a few minutes to get use to the cockpit layout, to configure the weapons into her own firing patterns.
“Warrior! I am Star Captain Andreas, your defeat will swift, yield and I may take you as my bondsman!”
The broadband transmission came from a Turkina, Khan Pryde’s sensors showing it moving into the circle. The squat, broad profile of the Turkina was totally familiar to any Jade Falcon Warrior or anyone who faced them, it was an old design, but it was still formidable.
“Star Captain Andreas, you are old, you have failed to earn a Bloodname, you have failed as a Warrior and your defeat here will be the last failure of your life.” Pryde shot back, hoping he didn’t recognise her voice.
“So be it, you will not get any mercy from me!” At that the Turkina broke into a lumbering walk, its broad feet thumping into the grassy ground of the Trial arena. Activating up her ECM, Khan Pryde broke her machine into a run, rapidly accelerating to a full 64kph as her defensive systems alerted her to a missile lock from the still distant Turkina.
“Not bad, but not in range…” Pryde muttered, steering her Mech into a dense copse of trees, the ECM throwing out false targeting information and ghost targets for the Turkina to try and track.
“Hiding in the woods like a Spheroid coward eh?”
She gave him her ‘answer’ by stomping on the jump jet pedals and there was a rumble as the jump jets fired. The partial wing snapped into position, going from its vertical position to horizontal as the jets fired. The wings moved and shifted, working to increase airflow over them, whilst little thrusters on the tips of the wings fired, adding stability whilst the Mech leapt through the air.
The Khan twisted her Mech’s waist, grunting as she ignored the shaking from the jump even though it was far smoother than her usual Grand Summoner's jumps. At extreme range, she picked out the Turkina, the Mech’s fire control systems and targeting computer working seamlessly to highlight the distant Mech before she fired.
A pair of bright green lances of laser light raked across the Turkina’s right side, leaving a pair of glowing furrows near the right shoulder.
Even as Pryde’s Mech thundered earthbound the Turkina was returning fire, a blizzard of LRM’s as well as both ER PPC’s reaching out towards her Mech.
One of the LRM salvo’s, spoofed by the ECM failed to lock on properly, missing cleanly above and behind the Mech as it fell towards the ground. One particle cannon blast ripped into the top of some of the trees, blasting them into kindling. But the other LRM and PPC found their target, the energy bolt venting its anger against Khan Pryde’s Mech’s chest, whilst eight missiles cratered armour across the Mech as its clawed feet slammed into the ground.
She knew she was faster and more agile, but the Turkina was more heavily armed, she knew to ‘trade’ with it would be a losing game with terminal consequences. Not a game Khan Pryde wanted to play.
Using the rolling hills of the testing ground she moved towards the big contact of the Turkina, both Mech’s stomping towards one another at full speed. Breaking out of cover Khan Pryde was already turned to face her target and she mashed the firing triggers as the crosshairs pulsed a healthy blue indicating a lock.
Still at long range for Clan combat, or ‘true’ fighting range as many Clan Warriors tended to think, the HAG let out a snarling blurt of hyper-velocity slugs, joined by a pair of ER laser bolts. The slower Turkina had to turn its whole body, its lack of a waist assembly, sacrificed to make it a squat target was caught seemingly by surprise. It seemed the Star Captain Andreas had underestimated his opponents speed.
The volley of HAG slugs raked across the Turkina’s right flank and arm, the impacts sparking even at this distance whilst her lasers left let more glowing gouges in the armour of the right arm and torso.
The Turkina stopped, twisting as fast as it could, the twin LB-5’s hammering their answer to the incoming fire, whilst both PPC’s spat bolts of bright blue lightning at the Khan’s Mech, the 95-ton machine staggering as it rocked under Khan Pryde’s fire. One LB-5 round slammed into the Khan’s Mech, the rest of the fire going wide, punching smoking holes in the ground or going wide, hitting nothing but air and Khan Pryde grinned.
“No wonder you have not earned a Bloodname, you cannot hit the broadside of a Dropship! Let me end your shame!” Her voice was full of malice as she fired again; pressing down on the jump pedals again, throwing her Mech into another long, but controlled jump.
A volley of missiles shot under her Mech and she grinned, her Mech’s sensors telling her that one of the particle cannons in the Turkina’s right arm was disabled as the HAG walked a volley of slugs across the Turkina. Still one particle bolt and a cluster of LB-5 rounds caught her Mech in the leg and arm, but the partial wing was already working to control the descent as she opened the range with her jump.
Khan Pryde took her time now, using her longer ranged guns to hammer at the Turkina whilst its responses were becoming weaker. Another blast from her lasers saw the Turkina’s right arm fall away at the elbow, the mangled limb trailing myomer and cables. She laughed as she slowly, carefully ripped the other Assault Mech to shreds, a battle that ended in a huge blast as the LRM ammo in the Turkina’s torso was ripped open by a volley of HAG fire.
The crippled Mech fell onto its face, smoke belching from its ruined torso, one leg scraping the ground as it tried to stand.
“Star Captain Andreas, know that you faced Khan Jaina Pryde this day, and know that you fought well. Your defeat has ushered in the arrival of this Mech to the Tourman, and know that you die with honour.”
It was child’s play to target the Turkina’s cockpit as the Mech stopped struggling, there was no reply from the downed machine, and as she fired, Khan Pryde knew there would not be one. “Chief Scientist Heymer, I am most pleased with you and your colleagues work, how soon to begin construction?” Khan Pryde was grinning dried her hair with a towel having dismounted from the Mech whilst Tech’s and her Scientists practically ran over to her to make sure she was unharmed.
“We have six prototypes complete now and…”
“You have five, this one is mine.”
“I stand corrected my Khan, with your authorization we can send the prototypes to our production facilities. It is then a matter of resource allocation and tool construct…”
“I asked for an answer, not detailed description.”
“Six months, perhaps five if we can disperse the design team to help set up facilities here on Sudeten and on Ark Royal.”
“Make it five and you will receive all the materials you need to build the future OmniMechs of our Touman.” All the Scientists perked up at that prospect, their somewhat nervous smiles becoming more genuine, less concerned despite the extra workload that had just been dumped on their shoulders. They started talking excitedly before the Chief Scientist Heymer silenced their chattering with a chop of her hand before speaking into the radio again.
“And have you thought of a name for the new Mech my Khan?”
“I had thought of Golden Eagle, but neg, it shall be called the Shrike.”
“A fine name, my Khan.”
“Of course it is Chief Scientist, I chose it after all.”
Khan Pryde heard the sycophantic laughter from the clearly relived Scientists and Technicians, there wasn’t going to be any sudden promotions due to the death of their leaders and they were happy they had both delivered a Mech the Khan liked and thereby avoided her wrath. But Khan Pryde paid their relief no heed, her focus was on her new Mech, while not the OmniMech her Grand Summoner was her thoughts were already turning to what they would accomplish in battle together.
Trial of Possession
Qandahar, Qandahar Prefecture
Military District of Pesht, Draconis Combine
24th July 3110
Katrine Devalis was in her element her Nova Cats were facing off against the Draconis Combine Mustered Society on the world of Qandahar. After their Batchall the DCMS commander with two regiments of troops had agreed to meet Katrine Devalis in a limited Trial of Possession which she was currently winning. In the air above the Draconis Combine lines DropShips suddenly appeared over the First Amphigean Light Assault and the Fourth Ghost Regiment. “This is Katrine Devalis” she said from her Deimos OmniMech’s cockpit “you lose great honour bringing in additional troops Combine commander. I will also lose honour and match your numbers.” She said
“It is you that has lost honour Nova Cat these troops are yours” the Amphigean’s commander said Katrine focused her OmniMech’s sensors on the DropShips seeing one of them was a Vanguard-class vessel. She knew that would be only one person and immediately changed to the Nova Cat Galaxy command frequency.
“You steal my honour! You stavag son of a bitch I let you live!” She stated angrily watching as Nova Cat BattleMechs and Battle Armour dropped from the DropShips engaging the DCMS forces as they fell.
“You are wasting precious time Katrine Devalis” Khan Canin Rosse said as his own Dragon Cat OmniMech fell from the Vanguard blasting holes in a Draconis Combine Quickdraw. “We have many things that we must discuss.” He said as the OmniMech came in for a landing.
“Aff, we agreed to meet after these trials” Devalis said turning gunning down a Panther blowing the light BattleMech to pieces.
“These trials were unnecessary I informed you of such.” He replied “your actions simply provoke further responses from the Combine which we do not currently need.”
“The Dragon is not ready to respond.” Katrine said “we are ready.” She said the Nova Cats had continued to make small raids but Qandahar and Kamarod were two further indications to the Draconis Combine that their Clan was not just a nuisance but also a threat, while their Khan seemed to want to make the Clan look unthreatening. It was yet another thing that they would discuss on their trip to Tukayyid.
With the addition of Khan Rosse’s forces both Quandahar and Kamarod fell quickly with the First Amphigean, Fourth and Sixth Ghost Regiments all destroyed by the Nova Cat forces. With both systems secured Khan Rosse and saKhan Devalis quickly left the system heading for Tukayyid.
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Pffft. I don't go to Sian, I don't fight for wackos, and I ain't afraid of no bears!
:)
You would love to go drop in on Sian!!! Don't lie
Don't make me look up for your old quote Father Bowman
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You would love to go drop in on Sian!!! Don't lie
Don't make me look up for your old quote Father Bowman
The Litany of the Fox never said anything about landing on Sian... ;)
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Wow, that was very good entry! Shrike story was my favorite, it gave Jaina Pryde more character. Shrike OmniMech will be interesting look at since the original wasn't one.
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I forgot Vition wrote the Raven part too :-[
Wrangler all of the "bird" designs will get their moment
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The Litany of the Fox never said anything about landing on Sian... ;)
It has been a # of years, maybe I am misremembering it.
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I wonder whats got the Cat Khans going to Tukkayid, and why she didn't just challenge him there and then. Great update and it was a honour to have my drabble included :)
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Alright Ladies and Gentlemen (there has to be a couple of each on here surely) after a short hiatus here's the August update
Mechbay
Hamilton, Hell’s Horses OZ
8th August 3110
“It preformed well within our expected perametres” The technicial said looking up at the BattleMech “we are ready to move to the next stage of development, Star Colonel Colin.”
“It is up to the Khan’s choice” the younger lightly skinned man said looking up at the Parash BattleMech “you are correct it did well after years of testing it was nice to see it at war.”
“Not just your Khan’s” a third darker skinned woman said on her uniform she wore the insignia of Clan Wolf. “Remember, Star Colonel, Clan Wolf helped bring this technology into the fold it is only right that my Clan sees the benefits of it also. We wish to see the full development of this technology.”
“For all of the Clans” Star Colonel Colin replied as the tech looked between the two Clan warriors “that was the plan to bring this technology to all of the Clans quiaff?”
“Aff, I believe that was the Khan’s plan. Once the Wolves and Horses benefit then all Clans will see the rewards of our labours and we will be remembered.” The female warrior replied “however plans can change” she admitted “I was assigned here to oversee the development of this technology the victories here and elsewhere prove its worthiness.”
“I wonder why you did not develop this in your own Occupation Zone? You have plenty combat opportunities there.”
“Aff, but opportunities too close to those who may steal it, we have no interest in the enemies of the Clans gaining access to this technology.”
“I thought this technology originated in the Inner Sphere?” The tech said gaining a glare from both of the warriors “of course I may be wrong.” He said making a hasty retreat.
“You will have to have him and the other techs eliminated.” The female warrior said “we cannot have the Clans believing this technology is not ours.”
“The truth will come our eventually, Star Colonel Kya, if we do that then the project will be delayed while further technicians are trained.”
“Aff, I understand but secrecy must be maintained.” The Hells Horse Star Colonel nodded they would have to begin again.
High Command Meeting
Imperial Palace, New Samarkand
Military District of Midway, Draconis Combine
10th August 3110
“Coordinator, the Nova Cats are in a precarious position and are far from their core territories. If we were to strike them at the right position we could break their supply lines drive them from our Periphery regions before they become too entrenched.” Warlord Minamoto Yoshitsune of Pesht said.
“Are you trying to counter my commands?” Coordinator Akira Kurita demanded looking at the man. “We have already deployed troops to the Federated Suns border their focus is on Benjamin our troops are ready to fall on their lines.”
“The Nova Cats threaten the stability of my region Coordinator. I must do my duty to the people of Pesht and the people of the Draconis Combine.” The older man said “however the decision is ultimately yours.” He said bowing his head.
“Gunji-no-Kanrei Kurita your suggestion for our course of action?”
“While Warlord Yoshitsune’s council is wise” he said looking at the other Warlord who nodded his thanks “our troops are already in position to strike the Federated Suns to have them move again would delay any offensive by a matter of weeks.”
“And in weeks the Federated Suns could be on Benjamin! We need to turn them away.” Warlord Tsion Ben-Judah of Benjamin said he was still angry that the Coordinator had not deployed troops to Benjamin to begin the counter-offensive. He had settled for another attack on the Draconis March.
“I agree Pesht is a large region” Akira Kurita said “we need the forces based there ready to counter the Bears, Ravens and Nova Cats an offensive at this time. We will support Pesht’s defence but for now we need to break House Davion’s assault into our territory.” He said turning from Warlord Yoshitsune to Gunji-no-Kanrei Kurita “command the assault to go ahead as planned.” He commanded making his decision final. Hours later regiments launched into the Federated Suns attacking Capra, Cassias, McGehee and Udibi by the end of August the weak mercenary defensive line is shattered by the Draconis Combine’s offensive with two units Aaron’s Eradicators and the Second Dismal Disinherited are completely destroyed in the fighting and several others driven back.
Estate’s Generals
Tharkad, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
14th August 3110
At a meeting of the Estates Generals on Tharkad Archon Jessica Steiner receives the support of the worlds of the Lyran Commonwealth but she realizes that her realm cannot continue to take the losses that it has over the last few years. In an effort to bring the Estates Generals back on side Archon Jessica Steiner authorizes assaults by Lyran and mercenary forces against five worlds still held by the Stone Spirits and two held by Clan Jade Falcon. The Lyrans are successful in capturing all five Stone Spirit systems and Clermont from the Jade Falcons unfortunately these successes does not reduce the threat to Coventry, Donegal, Tharkad, Odessa or Arcturus.
In an effort to appease the Estate Generals and the Provincial leaders Archon Jessica Steiner agrees not to form additional Lyran Guard or Lyran Regular units and instead, with money taken directly from the Steiner family funds, she forms new units named for the Provincial capitals. As a result the Coventry Cuirassier’s, the Alarion Airborne Assault and the Halfway Mechanized units are all added to Lyran rosters though each is only two regiments in strength and they are among the weakest in all of the Lyran Commonwealth Armed Force’s.
Caesar’s Hearth (Overlord-class DropShip)
Deep Space, Periphery
20th August 3110
Aboard the Overlord Dropship the MDS Caesar’s Hearth there was a mixture of nervous fear and nervous excitement. Ahead the tugs moving the THS C. Sagan fired their thrusters one last time, bringing the ship to a halt before moving to a safe distance. One old Leopard remained attached to the ship’s hull it was home to the repair crews working inside the partially active ship.
Whilst her hull plating still needed to be painted the decontamination and replacement of the main hull was finally complete and tech’s had been swarming over her insides, rewiring the vessel, they were replacing time worn computer cores and data systems with those the Marian Hegemony had acquired, stolen or purchased at considerable expense.
“My Caesar, we can begin at any time.” Caesar Aleksandr Ward nodded at Sister Cassandra’s voice and gentle hand upon his shoulder. She was just as excited as he was, but like the leader of the Marian Hegemony, she wasn’t showing her emotions.
“The word is given, begin single reaction ignition.”
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“Alright! We’ve got the go ahead. Make sure the Fomalhaut’s Blade has a steady feed, we don’t want a bloody power surge, not now!”
A chorus of affirmatives answered the Chief engineer, watching the techroom a raised platform above the reconditioned reactor room. Four of the ancient GE-2000 ‘Millennium’ type reactors dominated the chamber, old tokomak types that were so integral to the ship that simply removing them would have meant more time and resources consumed. So, the Marians and their support from Interstellar Expeditions had instead set to getting the old reactors working bringing the ancient ship alive.
Several hundred tons of superconducting magnets that would have powered regiments worth of gauss rifles were painstakingly installed and fitted over a period of months once the aft section was at least air tight. All they needed was one, just one to work.
“Systems check!”
“Coolant systems online.”
“Fuel pumps active and in lockdown.”
“Magnetic fields building their charge.”
“Computer systems online, all good!”
The chief engineer grinned ‘Well, no guts, no galaxy…’ he thought “begin fuel feed!” There was a soft rumble as the fuel pumps activated, feeding a stream of massively pressurized hydrogen into the heart of the reactor. The partially metallic hydrogen slush was grabbed by the reactors magnetic coils, twisting the gas into invisible torus shapes in the pressurized chamber of the reactor.
“Initiating laser ignition in 3…. 2.... 1!” There was a warm blue flash from within the reactor and a steadily rising hum that seemed to run through the whole ship.
“Report!”
“We have plasma ignition! Magnetic field is holding! Temperature at… 200 million Kelvin and going nowhere!” The tech reported triumphantly. That was the number they needed to hear, the reaction was self-sustaining, a helical blaze of blue light held in place by immensely strong magnetic fields, fed by super pressurized hydrogen. “Sir, do we have permission to feed into the ship.”
“Damn right you do! Bring it up to 50% and let’s get some life into the old girl!” The Chief engineer said whilst quietly praying ‘please don’t blow up… please don’t blow up…’
“Roger! Disengaging batteries… now! Activating feed… now!” The lights across the C. Sagan dimmed for a moment before blazing once more, re-wired computers came online and the whine of the reactor changed its pitch to a dull deep rumble as the C. Sagan came to life once more.
Outside the ship’s running lights came on, the lights that illuminated her name blazed whilst the massive rotating section started to move. Aboard the Caesar's Hearth there was cheering, applause and toasts to the Caesar, his wisdom and of course to the Marian Hegemony.
“My Caesar! This is a great day, the Sagan lives.” A fawning minister said, bowing as low as his age would allow.
“No, not the C. Sagan, the Stellaris Rex lives.” Caesar Aleksandr Ward replied his eyes fixed on the battered hull of his ship, already thinking of what he could do with his prize. And then he glanced at Cassandra, and he knew she was thinking exactly the same thing.
She glanced down as she felt her hand taken in the Caesar’s and she nodded. “A good name my Caesar.”
“Well I can’t call her Cassandra’s Might… perhaps an escort vessel for her though…”
“Oh so you see me as an escort hmm…?”
The younger man snorted “Never.” Cassandra squeezed Aleksandr Ward’s hand slightly and the younger man turned looking at his assembled ministers. “Gentlemen, ladies, this is a great day for the Hegemony and for us all. Aaron I want to know who was the engineer responsible for today’s test?”
“A Chief O’Brien my Lord.”
“Promote him two ranks, and everyone on his staff up a rank, I think some lands could be given to the Engineer in reward for his hard work and dedication.”
“My Caesar is generous.”
“Hah, no, your Caesar understands that hard work should be rewarded, unless you disagree.”
“Never my Lord!” The minister of Finance said, eyes bulging in alarm.
“Good. See that you don’t.” Ward said, looking back out at the Hegemony’s greatest achievement under his guiding hand, a cold smile on his lips.
SLDF Conference Room, Intelligence Center
Milligan’s World
Shared World, Star League Defence Force/Raven Alliance
25th August 3110
Major General Aaron Scarborough entered the conference room to a lack of military decorum he was used to while hundreds of light years from the Star League Protectorate he still expected SLDF officers to act like professionals especially those on the front-line. Commanding the Third Special Operations Group of the Blackhearts division had been the best years of his life his assignment to Milligan’s World and the Combine/Raven border felt very much like a demotion, though his rank said otherwise. He had managed to retain a company of the Third SOG in his reassignment. The strange virus which the Ravens quickly dispatched had raised eyebrows back on Terra, and a one of the First SOG’s NBC groups had been temporarily assigned to him to study the make up and origins of the virus.
But he was here to receive a report from one of the units assigned to surveil the trials, settlement, and construction of Nexus Ri. Captain Delanie nodded as he entered, “Welcome, sir, thank you for coming on such short notice.”
“Thank you, Captain, we’ll exchange pleasantries later perhaps you can now get on with your report” Aaron sighed taking a seat.
“This may change things, there appears to be more going on between the Ravens and the Combine than we expected.” Aaron sat up straighter, his curiosity piqued, and waited for the Captain to continue.
“As you know the Ravens and Combine set up Nexus Ri as a way to combat their differences in a way less destructive than their last couple of... spats. While we currently believe the trials here have been winding up, we don’t think they’ve reached their peak yet - there are still a half a dozen worlds the Ravens are likely to trial over and at least three the Combine wants back. In the last trial, over the world of Brasha, we noted something strange, if you’d please look to the screen.” Delanie motioned to one of the walls, turning on a screen taking up much of the its area.
On the screen around 20 clan ‘Mechs exchanged fire with a battalion of Combine ‘Mechs displaying the insignia of the Fourth Sun Tzang. Interspersed here and there, were battle armored troopers of both sides, what appeared to be a short star’s worth against a company of Kuritans, including a platoon of Kishi battle armor.
“I didn’t think the Kishi were being assigned to training units.” Aaron noted.
“They aren’t, or they shouldn’t be, their production is still very limited and the disruption caused by Sceptre didn’t help matters any. If you look closer,” the screen zoomed in on one of the Kishi, “the paint here around the unit crest is newer than that further away, and if you notice, the BattleMechs on both sides are pointedly ignoring the battle armor. Often, in similar situations a BattleMech will take pot shots at battle armor, but there is none of that here.”
“So, the BattleMech trial was a cover for another trial - that doesn’t seem particularly clan-like. This looks flimsy to me; you wouldn’t have brought me in on this unless you had more.”
“Yes, within hours of the Ravens ‘winning’ Brasha back to the Alliance, the star lord-class DCS Dragon’s Maw jumped out of system on its normal schedule back to New Samarkand. It never made it, instead, an identical ship arrived on its schedule, but its IFF codes returned DCS Shadow of Luna. We were able to retrieve some grainy images from a spysat we have near the transit point, showing this” Delanie indicates the screen again.
A pair of massive DropShips detached from the Star Lord, at first glance appearing to be run-of-the-mill Behemoth-class dropships, but there was something different about them, the lines were smoother, and the engines seemed slightly more efficient. Then it clicked, “those weren’t made in the Inner Sphere, what happened to them?”
“We don’t know, Behemoths can’t land and take off from planets repeatedly so typically they will drop their cargo at an orbiting supply station. We have eyes on all of these and didn’t see the DropShips approach any of them. New Samarkand is a very heavily populated system though, and they could have ended up nearly anywhere.”
“Redouble your efforts in the New Samarkand system, figure out where those two DropShips went. We need a better presence in Nexus Ri, and I have just the idea for how we can do that.” Maybe this assignment won't be so quiet after all.
In the coming week Nexus Ri had hosted another pair of trials, in addition to the one mentioned above, none of it bode well for the Combine. They lost both Brasha and Cerberus while failing to retake Tabayama. In response, to this the Combine surprises the Raven units as they are changing defenders assigned to the planet resulting in a mixed battle including both the leaving Ninth Garrison and the arriving Second Garrison. Lack of coordination results in the Combine succeeding in taking ownership of Weisau.
Early in September, the SLDF trials for an enclave, and while neither the Combine nor the Ravens want them they acquiesce to the trial, though the potential enclave is very heavily limited. The SLDF unit backed by members of the Third SOG who disrupt the Raven and Combine formations, striking at officers with extreme precision and winning the day.
My thanks to Vition (Raven) and marauder (Marian) stories. The contributions are most welcome.
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nice update, wonder what the up with those Big boys. that is a lot of cargo space. ;)
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I feel like things are starting to get set up, I'm looking forward to seeing when the next foot falls.
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Great update :D The stew's bubbling nicely it seems.
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I love them but i FEEL like the feddies are reaching to far and are about to get there teeth kicked in. Unless it is all a ploy of some kind ???
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Timeline note: for those of you not fully aware of how this works. Vition2, marauder648 and James Tanaga (to name a few) have made fantastic contributions to this timeline but none of them fully know what's planned overall. They are in anticipation/dread for the most part about what I'm doing as everyone else do their comments are genuine not leading anyone on. (No one suggested such I just want to be clear)
As for what happens next I'm not a huge fan of spoilers yet I'm not a huge fan of being in the dark so I'm going to go down a middle ground
Right now is what I'm terming as a Cold War stage it's kind of like the Third Succession War small but intense conflicts that are honestly not going far - not the most gripping and I'm sorry for that but it's very deliberate.
In the future the timeline returns [to the blessed path where the righteous will stand and the sinners will fall] >:( I really need to get that fixed ::) ;D
No in all honesty there is a couple of things going to happen that will redefine this timeline and how it's future plays out - stay tuned
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Sounds Intriguing. ^-^
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There's bits and pieces from me, James Tanaga, Vition2 and marauder648 so here we go enjoy
Supply Raid
Dothan, Point Barrow Combat Theatre
Crucis March, Federated Suns
2nd September 3110
After two months of cloak and dagger operations sending small teams to gather intelligence on systems of the Federated Suns periphery the Sceptre had reached the point where it needed to raid a planetary system of the Federated Suns. With the intelligence they had already gathered the system of Dothan had been picked by Star Captain Gerry Harper, Quinn Shu and Stefan Banacek as a likely target where they could gather the food and supplies required to keep the Sceptre and its crew operational. Stefan Banacek’s Blood Asp OmniMech stood watching as Elementals from his unit loaded cargo trailers with crates of food and barrels of water. Two days before he had landed on the planet and defeated the planetary militia now his unit was in control of the spaceport and the local population. So far resistance had been minimal.
“Control to Sierra One!” Came an almost panicked reply he knew that it could not go so easily for long.
“Go ahead” he replied calmly long ago learning that losing ones temper was not the best way to deal with a combat situation.
“Sceptre has sent a burst transmission their long range sensors detected a Federated Suns Davion III-class Destroyer at the Nadir Point and DropShips making a run for the planet.” Control explained neither was of great concern the Davion III was no threat to the Sceptre, which was currently hidden in deep space, and the DropShips would take several days to get to the planet.
“Why the urgency?”
“Additional ground forces have been detected approaching from the south, at least a combined-arms Battalion.”
“You could have started with that!” Banacek snapped “command trinary move out we will fight a rearguard action to buy time to load the supplies we need into the DropShips.” As well as their own vessel the Konstantin Banacek’s team had captured an old Leopard-class DropShip from the spaceport although it was barely space worthy with a little work the vessel could prove useful in the future.
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An hour later Stefan Banacek turned his Blood Asp to the right targeting a Shadow Hawk BattleMech with his arm mounted lasers. The opal coloured beams of the heavy lasers burning through the BattleMech’s right torso and arm armour. Moments later a tightly packed group of six short range missiles tore into the BattleMech knocking it to the ground. Stefan glanced at his OmniMech’s stores he was out of gauss rifle ammunition and down to his last half dozen reloads of his short range missile system but they had succeeded in their mission his trinary of BattleMechs, vehicles and Battle Armour had successfully turned back attacks from an enemy that had superior numbers and they had bought the DropShips enough time to load up the supplies they needed. “Sierra One to Control” he called out
“Go ahead, Sierra”
“Bring in the cargo haulers, I want to strip the wreckage of any useful technology and ammunition, it may be a while before we are able to do this again.” He commanded turning to survey the battle moments later his OmniMech was struck by a flight of long range missiles which punched holes in his torso armour but fortunately did no lasting damage. Ahead he saw the last four BattleMechs approaching three were medium class designs while the fourth was a sixty ton Merlin BattleMech. “This is Stefan Banacek stand down or we will destroy your force.” He said his enemy must have known they were outmatched but continued to approach a particle cannon shot flying high over the Blood Asp. “As you wish” he said keying in his entire unit but leaving the general frequency also open “all units the last of the defenders are approaching they may expect us to show them honour as Clan warriors are known for. But what these people need to learn and what all of the Federated Suns need to learn we are not Clansmen!” He said as further fire from the approaching four Mechs was fired at his unit still no-one fired maintaining their discipline “which is why I now command… FIRE!” He said in one clear command the entire unit fired as one in a terrifying display of concentrated fire from the combined arms unit all four BattleMechs were torn to pieces, two of the MechWarriors successfully ejected from the hail of fire which was falling on them but none of the BattleMechs remained standing following the engagement.
With the defenders destroyed and their cargo loaded Stefan Banacek’s unit quickly extracted itself from the planet and headed to their rendezvous with the Sceptre which waited ready to leave the system. By the time the AFFS reinforcements and their destroyer escort arrived at Dothan the rogue Strike Cruiser had already jumped from the system. Days later across Dothan and from there across the Federated Suns gun camera footage of Banacek’s forces tearing apart the final lance of defenders on Dothan was repeatedly broadcast by news agencies leading to demands of immediate action in response as worlds cried out for additional defences.
Trial of Possession
Orestes, Coyote Occupation Zone
7th September 3110
Elements of the First Rasalhague Bears Cluster burned in system, escorted by the WarShip Silverdale which provided cover for their forces. Around the force several assault DropShips supplanted the WarShip’s firepower. Approaching the planet the Silverdale came to a halt well outside weapons range of the ground as the DropShips entered the atmosphere.
On the ground the Coyotes 120th Striker Cluster and the Tenth ProtoMech Assault Cluster opposed the landings, with aerospace fighters battling over the landing zones, filling the sky with broken and burning aircraft. The first cluster to touch ground on Orestes came under attack from a large number of ProtoMechs supported by Stars of light and medium Mechs. Still the First Rasalhague Bears pressed on, it being a Rasalhague unit held firm, pushing back the Coyote attackers.
The biggest battle though was the fight for the Odin Manufacturing plant. Fought miles away from the site the Seventieth Striker Cluster squared off against the further elements of the 120th who were backed up by the formidable defences outside the factory that were in turn manned by solhama troops.
The Commander of the First Rasalhague Bears Cluster Star Colonel Clementine Hall fell, her Kodiak II beheaded by a lucky hit during the melee as the two Clan forces collided whilst Star Colonel Lyla Bekker, of the Coyotes, was killed as her Savage Coyote erupted into flames and exploded as her ammo cooked off.
At the main Trial site elements of the Coyote Thirty-fourth Striker Cluster attempted to make a flanking assault on the Bears to catch the invaders in a deadly crossfire. Unfortunately for the Coyotes the Striker Cluster ran into the attached First Tyr Cluster who were acting as a tactical reserve in case the Coyotes broke their bid. With both Clans showing that they were ready to violate the original trial’s bid a mass melee quickly broke out as an entire Coyote light BattleMech star was crushed in mass fire by the Bears.
With both sides now fighting heavily the trial quickly spiralled out of control with entire stars eliminated on both sides. Dominon aerospace support was called in to silence the guns of the Orestes plant and suffered heavily in doing so but the Arrow turrets were silenced, all be it for heavy cost with large elements of the Bear force destroyed around the factory and elsewhere with the factory secured but with the Rasalhague Bears defeated in the main trial the battle was essentially a draw. The surviving senior Rasalhague Dominion Star Captain, an Eileen Bekker, from the First Rasalhague Bears Cluster requested Hegira and was granted the request. Because both sides had violated the Trial the Coyotes allowed the Bears to remove their salvage and granted them a ransom of a production run from the factories the Bears had captured during the fighting.
Elsewhere along the Coyote/Rasalhague border the two Clans exchanged several worlds with Kobe, Kranston and Hyperion captured by the Coyotes and Satalice and Nox captured by the Bears. Meanwhile recently captured Bondsman Morgan arrived on Alshian to begin his service with the Rasalhague Dominion.
Lyran Assaults
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
14th September 3110
With the Jade Falcons perilously close to Coventry the Lyran High Command order their regiments do something about it. In an effort to relieve the threat on Coventry Lyran commands target Biuqui, Krievci and Wroclaw.
Both recently formed Coventry Cuirassiers Regiments supported by the LCS Thomas Fredrick Bradford, a Commonwealth-class Light Cruiser, target the world of Biuqui targeting elements of the Second Falcon Jaegers Cluster on the world recapturing it.
The Twenty-fifth Arcturan Guards RCT supported by the LCS Graf Markol von Hild, another Commonwealth-class Light Cruiser, strikes the world of Krievci targeting elements of the Third Falcon Hussars Cluster.
On the back of a successful streak of battles the LCAF’s Nineteenth Donegal Guards attempt to wrest control over Wroclaw but they run into the rest of the Third Falcon Hussars along with the Fifth Ebon Guard Cluster. Although they are able to crush the remaining Third Falcon Hussars troops the Nineteenth are overwhelmed by the Fifth Ebon Guard units.
Trial of Possession
Outskirts of Phillip Drummond City
New Barcella, Nova Cat’s Den
21st September 3110
For fifty-two years the world of New Barcella had remained exclusively the domain of Clan Nova Cat with no other faction even knowing the location of the system that was until three days before when the Snow Raven WarShip Vienna Singer, Vision Seeker-class Battle-cruiser, had arrived in the system along with several JumpShips carrying ground forces. The Snow Ravens had immediately declared a Trial of Possession over production from one of the Nova Cat’s factories with three Nova Cat Battle-cruisers closing in on the Vienna Singer the Ravens had taken the surprising step to request safcon which the Nova Cats had agreed to.
Now three days later Star Colonel Ilfanesh Deleportas sat in her Nova Cat II OmniMech facing off against two binaries of Snow Ravens. She saw an Omen BattleMech approach the Nova Cat lines her Nova Cat II’s weapons outranged the Omen’s and immediately she targeted the Raven BattleMech with both her Extended Range Particle cannons following up moments later with the OmniMech’s pulse lasers burning armour off the Omen’s torso and legs. The Raven Omen stalked forwards engaging with its pulse laser but missed its mark the Nova Cat II defended by the ECM system. Ilfanesh turned to the right moving several paces clear of her previous position striking out with both particle cannons causing more damage to the large assault a wave of advanced tacticle missiles struck out towards the Nova Cat II but the anti-missile cannon mounted over the cockpit shot down several of them before they could reach the OmniMech leaving only six to strike the armour. Ilfanesh cursed as she continued on her path flanking the Omen striking out with the pulse laser one struck the left leg of the Omen burning armour but it was not enough to stop the assault BattleMech which struck out with more ATMs, its pulse laser and LBX-class Autocannon. The pulse laser struck the Nova Cat II but the laser reflective armour lessened the hit, missiles were cut from the air protecting the OmniMech but there was nothing to stop the autocannon blow. Striking low on the Nova Cat II’s left torso the autocannon smashed plates but didn’t penetrate its protective skin. Ilfanesh stopped her path instead turning and heading across the Omen’s path hitting the BattleMech with another two particle cannons shots these two shots were enough to penetrate the hull burning the gyro. As the eighty-five ton BattleMech fell laser, missile and autocannon fire filled the air but none threatening any of the Nova Cat units Ilfanesh kept her guns on the downed Omen for several moments but when the pilot began to shut down their BattleMech she turned towards another target.
As the Nova Cat II turned the anti-missile system automatically activated cutting down several short range missiles which had been fired by a group of Elementals. She didn’t hesitate firing the pulse lasers into the point of Elementals cutting down two of the troopers before the point could jump clear. The remaining three troopers tried to close on the Nova Cat II firing another salvo of short range missiles towards the OmniMech but this time the anti-missile system cut them all down. Ilfanesh tried to backtrack away from the remaining three Elementals triggering both particle cannons and ignoring the heat build up as she cut down another of the Battle Armour troopers. The remaining two troopers tried to jump onto the OmniMech but Ilfanesh was ready for them swinging the left arm she smacked one of the genetically modified troopers out of the air sending him flying. The last Elemental attached themselves to the Nova Cat II’s hull but she was ready for him dropping to the ground Ilfanesh rolled the OmniMech quickly crushing the last Elemental.
Standing her OmniMech up Ilfanesh Deleportas saw that the Battle continued to turn against the Snow Ravens with the Nova Cats pushing against the remaining Ravens at all points. “This is Star Colonel Ilfanesh Deleportas of the 453rd Pouncer Cluster to the Snow Raven commander your positions are compromised you have fought well, I offer you Hegira, it is time to accept.” She said targeting a Raven Flamberge BattleMech but holding fire.
“This is Star Captain Lorenzo Magnus Clan Snow Raven accepts your offer. All units of the 101st Raven Battle Cluster stand down. Nova Cat commander the field is yours but we will return.” He warned from the Bondsmen taken from battle the Nova Cats learned that the Ravens had found out where New Barcella was from warriors captured from Katrine Devalis troops.
High Orbit
Erdvynn, Erdvynn Province
Periphery
29th September 3110
Star Admiral Malcolm Lynn studied the tactical screen closely. Three weeks ago pirates from the Zeta Sisters, the four systems claimed by the Lyran Commonwealth Rimward of the Erdvynn Province and Rim Collection had crossed into Erdvynn Province, taking the capital world of Erdvynn and the systems of Yidtall and Calvados. Afterwards, the dezgra pirates had burnt alive the prisoners, government officials, the Collection ambassador, and the technicians manning the Hyper Pulse Generators. For that reason, the Collection and Mandrills had sent nine clusters and the RCS Resolute to recapture the worlds.
He shook his head. Now was not the time to think of past events, he decided, as he once again concentrated on the task at hand. “Communications!” he yelled out. “The pirate warship still sending out HPG pulses, quiaff?”
“Aff, Star Admiral,” Wendy, the Collection Freeborn Technician manning Comms station confirmed. “Still no luck in breaking their encryption” he nodded to himself, expecting as much, as he watched the enemy warship seemingly flee from the system, albeit leisurely. When the Resolute and the five clusters it was protecting arrived in system, they found the months-missing LCS Bolin, a Lyran Merchant Corvette in system. Now, even with twelve in-bound Titans and Titan Monitors and over a hundred fighters, it still was continuing its leisurely withdrawal.
“The dezgra pirates are indeed planning something,” he mused out loud. Yet, the only thing they could do was to wait for the dezgra to spring their trap. It was slightly unnerving, but it couldn’t be help. “Comms, notify Galaxy Marshall Justine Truscott the dezgra have a trap and advise her to break off her approach to Erdvynn.”
“Aff!” was the woman’s answer. Minutes later, just as he noted the sometimes temperamental Galaxy Marshall had acquiesce and ordered her DropShips and fighters into a roving pattern in orbit of Erdvynn, the dezgra pirates had sprung their trap.
“Radiation spike!” yelled out Eric, the only other Warrior on the bridge. “Right behind us!” he added.
“When it rains it pours,” Malcolm commented quietly before speaking up authoritatively. “Helm, turn us about portside. Tactical, have our gunners begin sequential fire and order our fighters neutralize any the pirates have.”
Just as the largest Mandrill WarShip began its portside turn, the IFF program onboard the RCS Resolute finally tagged the unknown pirate warship “IFF confirms! Enemy warship is the WOBS Erinyes, a Newgrange yardship!” Eric yelled out.
“What in the-” Malcolm’s question was cut off.
“The Erinyes just opened fire with its forward weapons. Energy output is off the scale…” Eric yelled out “it can’t be” Malcolm heard him whisper.
“Helm! Break off the turn and full power to engines! Sensors track that incoming and feed to tactical, Tactical station full defensive fire” he snapped Malcolm knew the RCS Resolute’s only chance was to try and shoot down the ordinance that was coming towards them.
He felt the RCS Resolute charge forward.
“It’s an ASTEROID sir” Eric said “we can’t avoid it our momentum is too great.” He confirmed Malcolm ignored his contractions as the information sunk in.
Malcolm closed his eyes, as he accepted the answer. “Can we evade via lifepods?”
“Aff, barely,” was the Warrior’s answer.
Malcolm opened his eyes and looked over the now-eerily quiet bridge. He could see all were looking at him. He looked at Wendy and Nick, the two Collection Freeborn on the bridge, before turning back to his screen, resolving to save the lives of as many as he could. Tapping it, he initiated ship wide Comms. “All hands abandon ship! I repeat! All hands abandon ship! Right ****** now!” He looked up to see the bewildered bridge crew. “I doubt any of you have a hearing problem.” In seconds, the bridge crew had evacuating the bridge, leaving only Malcolm and Eric.
“I just activated auto-fire on all guns facing the asteroid Star Admiral, anything that cannot hit it is going to bear on the Yardship or whatever the hell that monstrosity is” the younger Warrior reported out. “I’m staying Star Admiral,” he added out.
Malcolm nodded at him. “You are a true Warrior Eric.” The other man nodded and both were quiet for a moment as Malcolm tapped his screen to show a picture. A picture of him standing behind a woman sitting in a chair, his hand on her shoulder. Her name was Andy, a Freeborn Collection woman he had met in the days after the Clan had arrived on All Dawn. Along the Resolute’s hull evacuation pods began to leave the carrier Malcolm looked at Eric. “Tell me Eric. Who do you fight for?”
“I fight for our Clan and the Collection, Star Admiral,” was his reply before he turned to face Malcolm. “And now I will die for it.” He said watching the screen the Resolute’s fire was not stopping the incoming ordinance and the WarShip’s sensors had just registered a second massive launch from the Erinyes.
Malcolm nodded. It was as good an answer as he would hear from the young Warrior. “A noble answer, Eric I fear mine is a greedy one.” He said Eric glanced at the picture still held in Malcolm’s hand.
“Who is she, Star Admiral,” the younger man asked.
“My wife and unborn daughter,” was Malcolm’s simple answer. Eric was about to ask another question but then both disappeared in a ball of fire, as the asteroid struck midway across the hull of the RCS Resolute causing massive damage. As the ancient WarShip twisted and burned a second asteroid slammed into the vessel’s hull and destroyed the vessel.
For another hour and a half, the remaining Rim Collection forces fought tooth and nail for survival against the Erinyes and the Bolin, intent on holding both pirate warships off while their ground forces desperately made there way back to their JumpShips and began emergency jumps clear of the system. Several of the Rim Collection pilots and escort DropShips would not be leaving the battle as they fought a desperate rearguard to defend the ground forces escaping.
Nexus Ri
Shared World, Border world
Draconis Combine/Raven Alliance
30th September, 3110
On Nexus Ri the trials between the Combine and Ravens continued as the two nations continued to experiment with their new relationship. With the SLDF trialing for, and winning, an enclave on the planet itself adding another element to the world’s make up. Elsewhere on the border the two nations battle over several other worlds. While none of the worlds change hands, with the Ravens keeping control of Kazanka and Suianheer, while the Combine retains Zlatousi and Quantraine both sides see their troops pushed to their limit.
To keep the fighting from escalating into another all out war the Ravens and DCMS maintain brief and discrete monthly communications giving the other a little feedback about the current situation. From both sides there is near continuous complaints from the Ravens at the use of “dishonorable” combat tactics and strategy from the Draconis Combine warriors however neither nation is ready for another all out war and nothing further is made of the complaints.
Further along the Draconis Combine border the Nova Cats take control over the system of Tarnby defeating the DCMS defenders this makes up for the Nova Cats defeat by Clan Sea Fox in a Trial of Possession in Falakuma system where the WarShip Tiglon was heavily damaged by a new Sea Fox WarShip the Mastera, an Isurus-class Missile Destroyer.
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Lots of movement in this update. Great job everyone! O0
Have me wondering what's going to happen on the Bear and Dragon borders.
James Tanaga
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Timeline note: for those of you not fully aware of how this works. Vition2, marauder648 and James Tanaga (to name a few) have made fantastic contributions to this timeline but none of them fully know what's planned overall. They are in anticipation/dread for the most part about what I'm doing as everyone else do their comments are genuine not leading anyone on. (No one suggested such I just want to be clear)
Hmm, thought I had replied to this earlier, guess not...
I'll say regarding this is that I pretty much only know what happens in the snippets I end up writing for DC, and sometimes these change enough that the consequences I was intending change ;D. I'll give a couple examples and then the only time I think I've actually been given a headstart on some information. First, I know that something bad is going to happen to the FedSuns, DC has pointedly mentioned this throughout this thread for the past 2-3 years of in-game time (so nearly a year IRL). Second, I've intentionally seeded hooks into the storylines I write, likely the most apparent is the Sceptre going rogue - but I had zero input on what happened after it jumped out of New Samarkand. Other inclusions have been whether or not the Ravens actually have antimatter mines, who actually gave the order for the Combine Flotilla to attack Quatre Belle, and the virus on Milligan's World - regarding each of these, I have ideas for the second and third, but am leaving the first entirely up to DC.
As for the only time I got notice before something actually was put into the thread which was not also directly forecast in this thread itself is that I happened to build and write the fluff for the Isurus-class Missile Destroyer at just the right time for the Nova Cats to have something else bad happen to them (I knew something was going to happen to them 27 hours ahead of the September post, but no details). The Ravens finding New Barcella was both more and less than what I was thinking/hoping - it has a lot bigger long-term consequences than the "satisfaction" of a couple of annihilated clusters/warships.
Lastly, much of the big stuff that ends up going down is forecast in some way. DC does a great job (imo) in forecasting that something is going to happen without letting too much of the specifics slip.
I'm still waiting on pins and needles for whatever will end up dropping on the Fed Suns. ;)
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Similar with me. DC usually likes what I write, but will make some changes to them. Usually the changes are small, but sometimes he adds something big I was NOT expecting at all.
Also, I tend to write the Rim Collection updates for the most part, and sometimes I do need some clue on what he has planned on that particular border. Most times, they're vague, offering just enough information for me to work with, but not enough to figure out what he has planned.
And still sometimes I shock even him and he loves an idea enough to change his original plans to include said idea. The Stone Spirit Incursion and Kelly Varnay popping up comes to mind.
Actually, I'll use the above as an example. I noticed when DC posted maps, unit and warship listing for the end of 3105, I noticed they had left their Stone Spirit border rather lightly defended for a Clan border. I wrote an outline on my idea for the incursion. It was a full-out Clan assault to make their own Occupation Zone. DC liked the idea a lot, but didn't want a full OZ on the border, merely a couple worlds. That eventually morphed into the Stone Spirit Incursion. Only information I ever got out at the time was to the extent of: this will set my plans back; here's what the Spirts have facing against them and yes this counts as much of the Lyran reserves; no your Mandrills CANT take advantage of the situation; sure, Erdvynn Province can exist; no warship losses to the Lyrans; and you cant kill the Archon's husband. During the writing part, I realized I didn't want to do Stone Spirit PoV (something I do now regret) and so stuck with using Lyran PoV.
My problem? I didn't want to keep to just the Archon's husband or another figure that was fleshed out, but a new character that we can instantly relate to. I remembered the Varnay Rebellion and presto. An exiled soldier that is finding acceptance within Lyran space. One that was the leader of what I envisioned as what could be found within the Lyran militia forces, that DC morphed into an experimental new unit. One that has since grown to include others. And the fun part? I got to destroy warships even though he originally said no. Why? Because it worked out better and he wasn't afraid to both change his plans up and let me have fun in his sandbox.
I will be honest. I was bummed when my first ever time writing people thought was bad and decided just to keep myself from writing again. My wife had to talk me into presenting my idea of the Mandrills surviving into the Inner Sphere to DC. DC said he had them planned to be destroyed, but let's see what we could do. That was more then three years ago. I am still writing Rim Collection scenes. And now I am comfortable in writing.
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Love to read about the insight from Vition2 and James Tanaga on writing their stories and seeing what Dragon Cat does with it! :D :D Keep up the great stories and looking forward to your next update!!!
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It's the same for me. I love Dragon Cat's AU and way back when my muse was inspired and I wrote a lil short story of an engagement in the AU that had already happened (it was a naval battle IIRC) and thanked him for writing such an awesome AU.
He then put that into his AU and we got chatting, and much like James and Vition was invited to write bits and bobs for the story. I'd be given a brief outline and then would go from there, at which point DC would then edit, change or alter as needed. I've also sent him wee drabbles and bits and bobs and these have or have not been added. Its fun writing for DC this way and i'm honoured that he's put my rubbish in this TL and helped it to create bigger hooks like the discovery and salvage of the Endeavour class explorer C. Sagan for example. This helps link the Marian's to other forces who wish to remain hidden, at least for now.
And I'll tell you one thing, I wasn't expecting to see the Eyrinyes make an appearance. But when she does, boy does she know how to catch everyone's attention.
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I agree completely, marauder. I've been trying make time and money to make a private publishing of Dragoncat and his talented contributors into black & white print. Heck this been more balance Battletech universe than the canon one!
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I agree completely, marauder. I've been trying make time and money to make a private publishing of Dragoncat and his talented contributors into black & white print. Heck this been more balance Battletech universe than the canon one!
Seyla!
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Well Done 1 and all {>{>
and to DragonCat you have 1 hell of a universe going and nice you allow others to play in it, if I could write better I might try, but I would hate to bring this down
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I thank my co-writers and other contributors it wouldn't be the timeline it is without what has been contributed (and what I've begged, borrowed and stole)
DOC_Agren - even if you had an idea, an event, a character, a unit you wished to see feel free to PM me anytime. If I can fit something in I will (though it might not come out as you expect) and in your own words lets get on with this "hell of a universe" (it CGL's really I'm just having lots of fun with it in this sandbox)
A contribution from Vition2 on the Raven border included in this update
Trial of Possession, Burn in
Zortman, Sea Fox Territory
Wolf Empire
2nd October 3110
On the Clan Wolf DropShip Prowler Star Colonel Xera Ward looked at the screen in front of her the Sea Fox warrior on the screen looked furious. “You wished for safcon and it was granted Star Colonel now what is it Clan Wolf wish with Zortman?”
“Zortman has been a Sea Fox holding for too long” the dark skinned warrior said “the Ninth Wolf Lancers Cluster is here to claim this territory.” She said seeing the shock on the Fox warrior brought a smile “I gather that had I declared my intentions when I entered this system safcon would not have been granted, quiaff?”
“Aff” the Fox admitted “what forces do you bring to this Trial?”
“I bid two combined-arms binaries of veteran warriors to this Trial I am ready to transmit their codex data.”
“I will match your bid Wolf, we will meet in one week at Lustig Pass, I will transmit our codex and location data.” He said in response.
“Seyla” Xera Ward responded
“Seyla” the Sea Fox responded
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On the ground of Zortman Wolf and Sea Fox forces fought each other trading blows as they danced around each other. In the centre of the formation Star Colonel Xera Ward moved her Tomahawk II OmniMech carefully towards her enemy’s forces gutting an enemy Shadow Cat OmniMech with her paired arm mounted HAGs. The rapid fire gauss rifles tore through the forty-five ton OmniMech even as a gauss slug ripped into the Tomahawk’s torso.
She stepped forwards targeting a Stormcrow now engaging with the large lasers only one found its mark burning down the Sea Fox’s left leg. The Sea Fox OmniMech ran around Xera’s OmniMech hitting the Tomahawk II with both of its large lasers burning the assault OmniMech’s armour the fast moving OmniMech quickly switched to its medium lasers burning more armour away unfortunately the heat build up cause two of the mediums to go wide and slowed the Stormcrow’s run. Xera smirked knowing that this was the moment and fired both HAGs and both large lasers only one HAG and one large laser found their marks the gauss slugs ripping down the right side of the Mech peppering the fifty-five ton OmniMech’s leg breaching the armour. Xera was satisfied to see the knee actuator explode as several slugs slammed into the exposed skeleton the Tomahawk’s laser added insult to injury as it burned over the Stormcrow’s torso and struck the underside of the cockpit. Behind the Stormcrow Xera’s other fire tore up the dirt as they missed everything around them the Stormcrow continued to limp faster than the Tomahawk could run but the MechWarrior must have known that his time was coming to an end and began to retreat firing its lasers against the Tomahawk’s armour.
Planting the Tomahawk II’s legs firmly Xera tracked the retreating Stormcrow with her torso twisting to follow the lighter Mech she then triggered one of the HAGs which tore open the back of the Stormcrow moments later the cockpit exploded open and the pilot flew from his falling OmniMech.
Xera turned her assault Mech to see a point of Elementals swarming a Nova OmniMech cutting and burning the Sea Fox Mech’s armour. Off to the side a Sea Fox Solitaire fired on the Elementals burning two of them from the Nova’s form. Xera angrily twister her Tomahawk II onto the Solitaire and fired one of the HAGs along with both medium pulse lasers cutting down the light BattleMech before keying her microphone “Sea Fox commander your troops have broken Zellbrigen, this is now a Wolf trial to win, all Wolf forces forego Zellbrigen and engage targets of opportunity.” She commanded on a general frequency beginning a general melee. Across the battlefield Wolf and Sea Fox units began to coordinate their fire rapidly cutting each other down with the Wolves rapidly gaining the upper hand in the fight.
Royal Marriage, Imperial Palace
Imperial City, New Samarkand
Military District of Midway, Draconis Combine
11th October 3110
At the Imperial Palace on New Samarkand Coordinator Akira Kurita announces his marriage to Julia Kurita. The announcement comes as a complete surprise to the entire Draconis Combine who did know that Akira was involved with anyone leading to the belief that it was an arranged marriage, which was not uncommon in the Draconis Combine. Little is said about Julia Kurita or her past and other than the marriage ceremony she is rarely seen.
Alongside this announcement is news that the DCMS have successfully captured Damevang, Choudrant, Rowe and Tishomingo as they push deeper into the Federated Suns Draconis March. Elsewhere along the border the DCMS fail to capture Hagiwawa from the AFFS showing that the AFFS resolve along that part of the border remains as strong as ever.
Poseidon, Sea Fox-class Arcship
Pirate Point Gamma, Nexus Ri
Shared World, Border World
Draconis Combine/Raven Alliance
13th October 3110
After having transferred around a third of its cargo to Falaknuma, the Poseidon its escorts and members of the Predator Khanate ground forces traveled rimward, arriving over Nexus Ri in the middle of October. “OvKhan Vewas, preliminary scans show that the reports are correct, Nexus Ri has significant deposits of germanium.”
“Good, this excursion will not be a waste of time” OvKhan Carlos Vewas replied, then he called up Star Colonel’s Sigmund Marsh and Aegal Faulk, “Star Colonels, the Seventh Cruiser and Fifty-eight Combined Strike Cluster are available to fight for our victory on Nexus Ri.” He said looking between them “what are your individual bids?”
Both Star Colonels engaged in a contest of bidding Star Colonel Sigmund Marsh eventually won the bidding with a very aggressive bid of a single binary consisting of a single BattleMech point, two aerospace points and the remaining a mix of ProtoMechs and battle armor. In reserve another binary of the Fifty-eight Combined Strike Cluster were available to support should it be required.
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“Commander of the Raven Alliance forces on Nexus Ri; I am Star Colonel Sigmund Marsh commander of the Fifty-eight Combined Strike Cluster of Clan Sea Fox. We want access to the resources of this planet and have determined that your Alvarius Enclave is the ideal location. The following forces are bid, with what forces will you receive us?” OvKhan Marsh then transmitted the list of his forces including the codices of the warriors who would be involved. He had done some research on the planet below noting this location as the second largest Raven enclave, and the only enclave located on a small island continent victory would grant the Sea Foxes will have ownership over the entire continent.
About an hour later the Raven reply arrived, “A binary of the Second Raven Garrison Cluster will meet you in the trial area of the Third Canyonlands. You are reminded that this is a shared world should you win your Trial you will have same expectations and rights as the other occupants of Nexus Ri, the Combine, SLDF, and we Ravens.”
Star Colonel Marsh, eager to receive the higher degree of autonomy quickly confirmed the bidding and stipulations. He then sets his senior Star Commander to the task of preparing for the trial. Continuing to study the terrain that they would battle over it quickly becomes apparent that the trial location would be ideal for ambushes and the terrain rough enough that even BattleMechs would have difficulty navigating the area, not to mention the near uselessness of aerospace assets. He had included a single point of aerospace forces purely to counter those of the Raven Alliance.
The battle itself was played out over three days, with the Ravens having a significant advantage in force composition for the first two days and knowing the terrain somewhat better than the Foxes. In a series of skirmishes they managed to pull off a number of ambushes, slowly bleeding the members of Predator Khanate. However at the end of the second day, the OvKhan Carlos Vewas authorised the use of the Fox reserve forces as the Sea Foxes pull out all the stops to win the enclave adding a star of ProtoMechs into the conflict despite the honour loss it costs the Foxes. This gives the Sea Foxes the mobility they need to capture the enclave.
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As the technicians and labourers transferred equipment to the Alvaris Enclave OvKhan Marsh noted the size of the enclave for the small number of inhabitants’ present and little infrastructure that the Ravens had invested in it. Already members of the Sea Fox scientific caste had assessed a nearby vein of germainium that their engineers could exploit unfortunately it was not as large as he had expected. He had also discovered that calling in reinforcements to the trial had cost the Sea Foxes control over the other islands of the continent as the Ravens saw it as a violation of the trial. The Sea Foxes would contest the Raven decision but it was just the beginning of a long journey.
Elsewhere the border tension between the Draconis Combine and Raven Alliance died down though continues to smolder beneath the surface. The last two trials of the official border world’s occurred with the Combine winning back Valentina and the Ravens recapturing Bad News.
Fourth Battle for Tamarind
Tamarind, Wolf Empire
15th October 3110
Missiles, Lasers and autocannon fire filled the space around Tamarind as WarShips, fighters and DropShips engaged each other. Past the aerospace battle DropShips carrying ground forces attempted to make it through the Wolf blockade around Tamarind.
“Sir, the side of the Therese just exploded there are explosive decompressions on several decks!” The FWLS Sardis sensor operator Joseph Milaki reported to Duke Robert Brett-Marik as the WarShip was hit with naval laser fire.
“Sire, Werewolf is coming around again if its broadside aligns with ours… Sire, this is a fight we cannot win.” Captain Rachel Leacar said attempting to get the Duke’s attention. They had expected the Lola IV-class Destroyer Wolf Hunter and the assault DropShip squadrons what they had not expected was the Werewolf or the other two Lola IV-class Destroyers to enter the system during their burn-in even as they spoke the Arctic Wolf, another Lola IV, passed over the position of the Free Worlds League DropShips unleashing its naval particle cannons and autocannons on the formation wiping out the Tenth Tamarind Militia, a third of their ground forces.
“Have our aerospace fighters engage the Arctic Wolf cover their retreat” Duke Robert Brett-Marik ordered “today is not our day” he said.
“Helm alter our course away from the shipyards, have the Tamarind and Abbey cover our flank defensive fire against the Werewolf. We’ll still take hits but we’ll just have to weather them. Send all SAR crews along with the Juan Carlos to the Therese recover everyone they can then rejoin with us.” Captain Leacar said watching the holotank as the Sardis began to turn to starboard the two accompanying Impavido-class Destroyers moving to the WarShips port side as the Werewolf turned her port side weapons towards the Sardis’ position. Even as the Sardis and her escorts turned away the Werewolf’s particle cannons opened fire two of the weapons hit the Tamarind’s port side while another hit the Abbey. Of the remaining nine weapons four missed completely while another two cored through an Overlord A3-class DropShip while the remaining three tore through the Sardis’ armour.
The massive Thera-class Carrier shook as the particle cannons tore open the ship’s side. Alarms sounded out in the Command Centre. “Hull breaches sections forty-two through forty-five!” The female officer at damage control sounded out “emergency bulkheads have closed no information on casualties.”
“Continue our turn” Leacar commanded “status of Tamarind and Abbey?”
“Both have heavy armour and internal damage, Tamarind has lost fire control and there is a report of fire onboard Abbey.”
“If they need additional assistance we’ll give it to them once we are clear of the battle.”
“Sir, Arctic Wolf is incoming on our position” another officer called out as the Arctic Wolf approached the Sardis firing its forward autocannons, lasers and particle cannons. The smaller WarShip cut across the hull of the large carrier sustaining several heavy hits as the Sardis’ gunners engaged the vessel. The Arctic Wolf passed over the Sardis and continued heading away from it both vessel’s rear weapons continuing to engage the other vessel as the range between them extended.
“Further damage reports from sections nine, thirty-three and seventy-one further bulkheads secure.”
“She can take it” Robert Brett-Marik said loudly so the crew could hear the confidence he didn’t feel.
“Arctic Wolf is out of the fight, they’ll get her working again but not in time to engage us, Werewolf is turning to engage again.”
“Have Tamarind and Abbey maneuver behind our bulk we will shield them.” Leacar ordered watching the display the McKenna-class WarShip was moving to engage them again with its broadside. She looked at Duke Robert who just nodded his agreement watching the screen as the two smaller Impavidos moved to keep the Sardis between them and the Werewolf. As the holotank updated it showed the Tamarind had broken formation and was passing under the Sardis heading directly towards the Werewolf.
“What are they doing? Order them back into position, we have already lost enough today!” Robert commanded but it was too late the Tamarind was already accelerating too much for it to make a difference. The Impavido closed on the Werewolf firing its weapons as it closed however the Werewolf’s armoured hide was too thick for a single attack to threaten it with critical damage. As the Tamarind closed there was a burst of energy from the Werewolf’s broadside as all twelve heavy naval particle cannons fired as one.
On the holotank in front of Duke Robert Brett-Marik and Captain Rachel Leacar watched as the FWLS Tamarind disintegrated under the Werewolf’s assault. Particle Cannon impacts tore into the nose and forward armour burning great gouges in the hull. As the Tamarind’s hull continued forward capital missiles struck the destroyer’s side before a second salvo of particle cannon fire almost literally tore the front of the Impavido from its hull. Robert looked at Rachel and lowered his head “Captain, please recall our fighters and DropShips… and ensure our ground forces have rendezvoux coordinates.” He commanded before leaving thecommand deck the Battle for Tamarind was over.
Mindstar Industries Shipyards, High Orbit Niops VIII
Niops, District of Lesnovo
Free Worlds League
22nd October 3110
High above the world of Niops VIII the newest and possibly most important facility in the District of Lesnovo came online. Standing in the command section Director Linda Roy stood beside Duke Raymond Brewer-Cameron-Jones “our facilities are fully operation we can begin JumpShip and DropShip production within the week all we await are resources which Niops can initially provide…”
“And the District will keep this place going” the Duke replied confirming what she hoped would be offered “I hear you have had interest from Private Corporations as well?”
“That’s correct as Mindstar is a business we have had interest from local mercenary commands and transport companies.”
“Including some wider ranging multi-nationals?” Duke Raymond asked pointing out he knew where some particular interest had come from.
“Interstellar Expeditions have approached us” she admitted looking him in the eye. If he had been twenty years younger she would have been his type willing to stand up for what she believed in. “Duke Raymond if Mindstar does not accept private commissions we will not stay solvent.” She said looking at the screens displaying the shipyard “I know you are very proud of what has been built here and I know that you authorized work visa for personnel from across the Free Worlds League to assist in making this place operational but unless you want to pay all of my creditors off and all of the wages due by this facility it’s my company and my contracts.”
“Agreed” Raymond said looking at the screens there was only a single JumpShip slip so far and it would be busy for months with District business. “You may make the deals you need to make however any deal made by agencies based beyond our borders must be cleared by my office.” He said
“I can work with those guidelines”
“I’m glad to hear that Ms Roy, we’ll do great things together.”
Clan Announcement, City of Pineville
Vega, Altenmarkt Province
Rasalhague Dominion
28th October 3110
After weeks of equipment and personnel being brought into the world of Vega the system was a hive of activity with the Alshian, a Leviathan 2-class Battleship, and two Bergan-class WarShips in the system along with twenty assault DropShips. On the planet’s surface at the newly constructed “Planetary Council” building in the newly constructed city of Pineville on the continent of South Nanturo Ghost Bear Khan Angela Bekker stepped up to address the assembled population. Around the perimeter there were armoured Elementals and BattleMechs standing at attention ready to act if necessary. “Citizens of Vega, and of the Rasalhague Dominion, I am Angela Bekker the Khan of Clan Ghost Bear and leader of the Rasalhague Dominion. I know some of you have questioned what the Dominion will bring to Vega and what benefits our nation will bring you over that of the Draconis Combine.” She said pausing to look across the assembled crowd “the first I would point to is this growing city which when completed will be open to all citizens of Vega and will become the administrative capital of the Vega Province.” She said allowing the news to sink in for a moment “from the worlds of Camlann, Port Moseby, Buckminster and Gram to Yed Posterlor and Vega this new province will bring direct administration and a better allocation of resources.” She said bringing cheers from the assembled crowd “we will defend Vega, rebuild Vega and we will let the people of Vega choose what they want.” She said using the three things she knew that the people of Vega held against the Draconis Combine. They hated that they had not been defended from Lyran raids, they had asked for more resources to rebuild and had not received them and they had not been given a voice that the Coordinator could hear now the Bears would offer them that which was something the crowd went crazy for. Even with the heavy Ghost Bear military presence in the system, something that would never really go away, the people were already seeing a different type of leadership and a new arrange of freedoms they had not experienced under Draconis Combine rule and for the first time in years it felt like Vega mattered again.
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Very interesting series of updates.
Lord Akira Kurita gets one step closer to his doom, while at the same time making progress against the Davion wall.
The Wolves decide to irritate the Sea Foxes, but beat down an attack by the Free Worlds League - which, given the importance of Tamarind to the long-term strength of the Wolf Empire, is not particularly surprising.
I very much like the minor modifications to my addition, with few words you added much depth to the Sea Fox encounter on Nexus Ri.
DOC_Agren, the way I ended up getting started in this was mostly an irritation with how the first Combine-Raven war turned out and, more-or-less, writing an in-person article about the failures in how the Ravens pursued the war. I had built a number of warships for the setting (both on request and of my own initiative, and I have a few more in the pipe I'm waiting on pitching to DC), but this was my first foray into the fluff. If you don't want to suggest an event, or short storyline which might effect the story down the future, you could pick a point in time, and event, an individual unit and expand the fluff directly related to them - something that doesn't really effect the future of the timeline but expands the fluff for this particular aspect of it. I've found that DC is very open to ideas, particularly if they aren't all that radical.
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Fun update DC.
And with that speech, Vega and the other worlds will likely become core Dominion worlds from now on. Interesting to see how the Draconis Combine will handle this.
DOC_Angren, as for me, I started because my wife and I found the timeline and we each enjoyed it. At first I thought it would just be until Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga (now Clan Fire Mandrill) reached the Rim Collection, but then over time my contributions grew into what you see today. You can only add to the timeline, not take it away, at least that is how I feel.
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Can't help but feel that the Wolves have been having it too good for too long.
Aren't they due some misfortune?
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Darn good update!
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It's either Horse action or WOB action that keeps me reading, the rest is just butter on warm toasty toast!
Keep up the updates please DC...
TT
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My thanks to James Tanaga for adding a little more action to the Lyran's periphery border
Davion Wing, Whitting Conference Centre
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
1st November 3110
Victor Steiner-Davion entered the Davion Wing of the Whitting Centre on the eve of the Seventeenth Whitting Conference. In the main meeting room he saw his daughter-in-law Duhess Sterling Davion with her daughter Leah and youngest son Christopher. “Grandfather!” Leah called out seeing him dropping her toy and running across the room at twelve years old she was growing up quickly she wrapped her arms around him as he approached. Her four year old brother Christopher was slower but reached him a moment or two later.
“Sire, it is good to see you” Sterling said rising from one of the white leather couches she wore a simple black knee length skirt with a green lined red jacket her red hair was tied back in a single ponytail.
“Sterling, please you know you do not need to stand on ceremony” Victor said stepping further into the room the two children returning to their toys. “Where is Burton?”
“Where else does a restless MechWarrior go?” She asked rhetorically knowing that Victor would know the answer. “He said he wouldn’t be long” she said glancing at the door which led to the Mechbay “that was six hours ago.” She said turning back with a smile on her face “he is a Davion son through and through it keeps him happy.”
“I hear that you too have been returning to what your old habits?” He said
“They die hard” she confirmed “I joined the FSS Sword and Sun on a patrol of the Snow Raven border” she said the Federated Suns Navy had essentially offered her a command of any vessel she wanted with the High Command honouring her previous training and experience with Clan Snow Raven. So far she had turned down their offer instead serving as an observer she had told Burton that until Leah and Christopher were both old enough to cope alone she planned to remain an observer on any of these tours he arranged. “It is a good ship and a good crew. They are eager to teach the Draconis Combine a lesson for their incursions but will wait until commanded.” She said confident in the ship’s resolve.
“I know it must hurt their morale not to strike but the Combine remains part of the League and the Federated Suns drive towards Benjamin has driven a wedge between the nations committing further troops would only spark a greater conflict one that may even draw in the Ravens.”
“Neg, the Ravens would only fight if provoked and thus far that has not happened.” She pointed out “the Combine continues to escalate the situation while our forces and people suffer.” She said passionately Victor smiled happy to see she had fallen in love with the people of his nation as she had his son.
“There is a time and a place. I hoped that this conference would lead to a peace…”
“It would have if the Snakes had bothered to show up.” She shot back interrupting him “I apologise, si… Victor, I have over stepped” she said glancing down.
“Neg, you have not” he said answering using her tongue. “You are right the Coordinator sending a Warlord in his place has done more damage than good.” He admitted instead of Coordinator Akira Kurita the Draconis Combine’s Warlord of Dieron Akira Tormark had attended the conference although Tormark had the authority to cast the Combine’s vote it made the chances of peace near impossible and almost completely ruled out the Draconis Combine holding the office of First Lord. “Where is Luther?” He asked glancing down at the two playing children wondering where their eldest was.
“At home studying Sarah is looking after him while we are away” she said naming one of Burton’s siblings. Victor nodded understanding but at the same time concerned that the future leader of the Federated Suns was not here to see what he could face in the future should these conferences last that long.
“I’ll go see my son, I’ll be back up later you two” Victor said the the children who waved him goodbye as Victor headed out the back door and began to head down a spiral staircase towards the lower level below the living quarters was the security level and then below that was a small but well stocked armoury and Mechbay.
Victor saw Burton’s Templar was in the bay he was surprised to hear that his son had taken the OmniMech to a planet where there was nearly zero chance of combat occurring but Burton had explained that it played to the image he was a Warrior Prince like Davion Leaders of old. It had struck him when he read his son’s response that Burton was far more media savvy than he ever had been.
Reaching the eighty-five ton Templar III’s foot however Victor’s attention was drawn to the OmniMech standing beside it. The Templar III was an impressive slick design, an evolution of an OmniMech that had dominated the ranks of the AFFS for decades, but the OmniMech that stood beside it was in a class of its own. One hundred tons of engine, armour, equipment and weapons it was the panicle of BattleMech technology one of the ultimate killing machines ever built by humanity. “Prometheus…” he whispered looking at the Dire Wolf still painted in the colours of the Tenth Lyran Guards RCT.
“Beautiful isn’t she?” His son asked appearing beside him Burton wore a full body coolant suit, a far more advanced system than Victor ever had in his day.
“She’s functional and capable” Victor said looking at the details of the OmniMech “I haven’t seen her for many years.” He said looking up at the OmniMech “why did you bring it?”
“Old habits” he said looking at his father smiling. “Also I hear that the SLDF have some impressive training facilities nearby, I though we could maybe take a run at it?”
“Your mother will kill me” Victor admitted looking at the OmniMech.
“If I am not mistaken mother is in Paris which is half a world away from us…”
“Very true”
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Nearly an hour later the Templar III and Dire Wolf stood on the battlefield facing off against several automated targets. “Let’s dance” Burton broadcast in the open the Templar III danced to the right engaging a long range missile turret while the Dire Wolf went left engaging a turret with heavy autocannons. As each of the two OmniMechs moved their simulated fire registered as damage to their targets shutting them down while the turrets fired paint rounds at their targets which registered as real damage. It wasn’t as spectacular as real fighting but it was more cost effective and didn’t result in accidental deaths of MechWarriors.
Victor moved quickly from one target to the next his Dire Wolf taking damage as he moved but the OmniMech was easily capable of taking the hits and dealing with these targets. As he moved he keyed his microphone to Burton’s frequency “not much of a challenge” he noted as a group of lasers engaged resulting in simulated burn damage.
“It’s not supposed to be” Burton replied obliterating a target of his own “but the Tri-Vid cameras will love seeing Prometheus in action once more.”
“Still playing games” Victor remarked as an autocannon barrage registered a hit on his OmniMech striking above the cockpit. Victor’s pace ground to a halt as he listened to his son’s reply.
“Old habits, die hard, dad everyone loves seeing their heroes in action even against training targets.” Burton explained cutting down another target “and its something very special seeing you at her controls again.” He said watching as Victor split targets taking down two more turrets from his standing position.
“I always thought you’d take over her controls.”
“Prometheus is and always will be your Mech, and a little too slow for my taste, you have to be able to move around your opponent Instead of just taking hits.” He said destroying another target but seeing his father’s OmniMech remained standing still he sent a command to the turrets to stand down before circling back to join his father. “Perhaps I’ll gift it to Luther when he’s ready.” “Sterling said he was studying?”
“Aff, I mean yes” Burton said stumbling over the response being married to a Clanswoman led to mixed up responses sometimes. “I’m convinced he’ll be the smartest Davion for decades. And he’ll be a fine MechWarrior when the time comes.” Burton explained Victor nodded not completely convinced that his grandson was as decided about his future as Burton was. It was tradition for First Princes of the future to be members of the AFFS but that did not necessarily mean being a MechWarrior.
“Shall we go back?” Victor asked glancing at the damage schematic for his OmniMech the simulated damage remaining with the gash above its cockpit standing out to the elder Davion. Had it been a real hit the cockpit would have likely been breached by the damage, a breach that could have killed him.
“Not tempted to get back in the saddle full time?” Burton teased as the two Mechs began to walk back towards the Mechbay.
“No it’s a habit I was happy to turn my back on it’s a younger man’s game and one I am glad to see that you play well.” He said looking over his son’s statistics from the “battle” high hit percentages and low damage he was impressed but his eyes were brought back to the simulated damage again he had many close calls in the past why it bothered him to see a simulated hit like it did he didn’t know.
Main Meeting Hall, Whitting Conference Centre
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
3rd November 3110
Victor Steiner-Davion remembered that Whitting Conferences were shorter as he sat behind his Burton and Sterling with his wife Danai Centrella-Davion they were the oldest two people in the room by a margin. In the early days the conferences had been simple the lords had discussed the SLDF’s capabilities, its funding and the ever present Clan threat and then they had voted for a new First Lord. Now however with the growing size and economic strength of the Star League Protectorate trade was just as strong a factor with trade going through the Protectorate from different nations to avoid conflict zones which made the Protectorate worlds more prosperous each day. Many within the conference hall wished to see the trade tariffs reduced and instead more money sent to the member states.
Victor paid little attention to their bickering as he looked around the hall he had been surprised to see Archon Jessica Steiner her embattled Lyran Commonwealth was still under heavy threat from the Clans with reports of renewed fighting along their borders. She was his niece but they barely knew each other their families long separated since Peter’s assumption of the Archonship it bothered him that he did not know his brother’s children better.
Sitting next around the table was Warlord Akira Tormark the representative of the Coordinator Akira Kurita. Tormark was older than his son and tried to look confident but he was out of place and knew his plans were tied. Earlier in the day Burton had offered to end the conflict with the Combine and return the systems of Hagiwawa, Umijiri and Kitalpha in the exchange. The deal was more than Victor would have been ready to return but Akira Tormark was not in the position to agree to the deal and so it had fallen through.
At the next table sat Duke Bannister Cameron the leader of the Star League Protectorate and the next most likely person to become First Lord. The former Star League Defence Force General was aging well but Victor could see that the stress of leadership was getting to him as was the bickering between leaders. His attention was brought to his left as Protector Erik Martens-Calderon said something towards Burton and McKenna immediately he moved to stand but Danai’s hand ended up on his arm bringing him back down into his seat he looked at her “old habits” he whispered but Danai was already indicating towards their son who was already acting. Burton activated several commands on the keypad which was built into the desk which activated the hall’s main projector screen. Suddenly several red dots appeared displaying the positions of AFFS ground force units and then several more green dots displayed mercenary commands. Victor had no idea if they were completely accurate but it made of an impressive display especially when the blue dots representing AFFS WarShips appeared peppering the Federated Suns/Taurian Concordat border. Finally Burton activated another command which displayed a smaller number of yellow dots inside Taurian borders.
“Simple mathematics I have more forces I can deploy would you like to test my resolve?” The First Prince of the Federated Suns asked beside the Taurian leader the Capellan Confederation ambassador began to laugh. Although not members of the Star League Council still being a prominent family in the Inner Sphere the Liao family ambassador was regularly invited but rarely attended the votes.
“And still the Davion family attempts to boss these meetings around there is a reason that House Liao stands apart from this council” Ambassador Ming Liao taunted looking around the other members of the council.
“At least we still benefit from the advantages of membership” Magestix Ilsa Centrella of the Magistracy of Canopus said taunting the Succession State. Victor shook his head this was not the best way to do business instead it was a good way to go around in circles.
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As the Star League member states exchanged insults and fought for dominance in the Whitting Conference Hall across the stars a different type of fight had broken out. During the night as the Star League met the Jade Falcon WarShips Jade Arrow and Emerald Talon supported by several assault DropShips and nearly a full galaxy of ground forces had jumped into the Donegal system obliterating the LCS Morgan Kell and crippling the LCS Flygia within days Jade Falcon troops would march on the Provincial Capital.
First Lord’s office, Unity Palace
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
4th November 3110
A week before this had been Victor Steiner-Davion’s office while he served as First Lord of the Star League in the position of his son now it was the office of the newest First Lord, Bannister Cameron, as Victor walked into the office he saw that Bannister waited for him behind the desk. “I love what you’ve done with the place” Victor joked the office was no different than when he had used it a large round room with one wall completely dominated by large windows.
“I see you didn’t waste anytime either” Bannister said rising from behind the desk unlike the business suit Victor had wore while serving as First Lord he now wore the uniform of a Field Marshal of the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns.
“It’s a little tighter than I remember” Victor admitted touching the waistband of the trousers “it’s all for show while I am here on Terra Burton is convinced that it will show our people that I haven’t gone native.” He explained again Burton had impressed him showing a near complete understanding of what was going on at home and what needed to be done to keep the masses happy. “Congratulations on your nomination” he said half seriously continuing to one of the white leather sofas sitting down while Bannister sat opposite him.
“Perhaps the easiest decision that the council ever made” Bannister admitted each of the states could technically be nominated but with the Federated Suns previously holding the positon, the Draconis Combine leader failing to attend, the Free Worlds League leader looking out of his depth and the Lyrans distracted there was little chance of the other main states gaining the position. Although both member states of the Star League neither the Taurian Concordat nor the Magistracy of Canopus had any realistic chances of gaining the leadership position with their well known history with the first Star League. “Do you think my speech made any headway?”
“About the uncontrolled arms race that is going on and the steady fall towards a conflict as large as any of the Succession Wars?” Victor asked Bannister nodded it was all he could think to speak of following the failure of the council to stop the ongoing conflicts. “Perhaps but I think the news of the fighting on the Lyran border had everyone more concerned.” He said news that Donegal had been attacked had reached the Council chambers shortly after Bannister had been nominated as the next First Lord. Archon Jessica Steiner had left nearly immediately heading for a DropShip which immediately boosted off planet heading for a waiting JumpShip. Under the rules of the current Star League no member state WarShip was allowed to leave the Nadir and Zenith jump points instead SLDF JumpShips situated at pirate points waited to take leaders via command circuit back to their own states.
“Yes, Archon Steiner will arrive in the Commonwealth to a fight her people cannot win” Bannister Cameron said looking at Victor his face a mask “Shortly Donegal will be under siege and Pherkad has already fallen to the Falcons. Grunwald and Kelenfold have fallen to the Horses and there are reports that the Coyotes have attacked Morningside.” He said reaching out to touch a control on the table that displayed all three Clans had moved forward against the Lyrans.
“A combined offensive” Victor said looking at the map “anything from the Bears?”
“No neither the Bears nor the Wolves have made any move forwards it appears that they are ready to sit and wait.” Bannister said looking up at Victor “this conflict is the one the Star League was formed to combat I won’t let the Lyrans hang alone.” He said switching the display to one of the Star League Protectorate which sat in the middle between the five Succession States and Clan Wolf’s Empire. “I’ve sent orders to the Warlock, Wasp, Cavalier and Vanguard along with the Thirty-first Royal BattleMech Brigade, the First Royal Regimental Brigade and the Second Knights of the Inner Sphere Brigade.” He explained “we are going to reinforce Lyran positions and force the Falcons off Donegal and support the defences against the Falcons and Coyotes.”
“Cavalier and Vanguard?” Victor said naming two of the Obey-class Battleships based in the Fenwick system both were untested in battle. While First Lord Victor had learned of the Fenwick and the ships based there he had agreed with Bannister Cameron and Victor Focht to keep the system a secret to protect the population now deploying both ships before they had undergone any of the proposed modifications would bring questions that the SLDF was probably not ready to answer.
“We need to make a statement” Bannister explained “I’m sending Victor Focht to oversee and command them he can liaise with the Lyran commanders.”
“Victor is a good commander but he hasn’t faced the pressures that he will face on Donegal before.” He said Victor Focht was an excellent administrator and strategist but his tactical thinking sometimes could be better. He had also never negotiated with the Clans before.
“Well I don’t think they would react well to a First Lord by the name of Cameron turning up.” Bannister pointed out Victor nodded Bannister Cameron turning up on the border was probably the last thing that the Lyrans needed. “Want the job?”
“Not really” Victor admitted “I retired for a reason.” He said thinking about Danai and her thoughts of him even considering going on a mission like this.
“You retired far younger than most men would have, I saw your range scores with Burton still at the level you were previously at” Bannister pointed out “with modern medicine you could live another fifty years easily.” He said one thing that had rapidly returned to the most advanced parts of the Inner Sphere was the benefits brought on by modern medicine and medical technology with the inclusion of Clan technologies, which had been reverse engineered to work with Inner Sphere technology, lifespans had increased to between one hundred-and-twenty and one hundred-and-thirty years.
“Do you know I have lived longer than my father did?” Victor asked looking at Bannister “with all of the fighting that he did and all the stresses he faced he died in his office at sixty-nine years old he died before he saw his children fully grow up when they could have used his support.” He said Victor had inherited leadership of the Federated Commonwealth after the death of his father and the murder of his mother had they been around the nation that their marriage built could have survived.
“That may have been true. At the same time perhaps the Commonwealth was simply too big and too diverse to last, the same happened with the First Star League.” Bannister noted “from what I read about Hanse Davion I don’t think your father was a man to dwell on what could have been.” Bannister said carefully realizing it was a touchy subject for Victor “I don’t think you are that kind of man either.”
“It would surprise you.” Victor admitted “one thing that would make an impact on the Clans was if the Lyrans were supported by a multi-national force.” He suggested “if we could convince the member states to support the SLDF it would send a message.”
“The Star League Defence Force will follow Victor Focht but, I do not know if the member states would, this has not been tested for many years.”
“I will command them” Victor said after a moments thought glancing up at Bannister “I have done it before I can do it again.” He said “I will speak with my son and have the Black Prince detached from his escort, we can try to convince Warlord Tormark to detach a destroyer or two from Dieron’s defence.” He suggested
“Destroyers are about all you’d receive since I don’t think Tormark will want to risk the Akagi.” Bannister Cameron agreed “I can speak with Captain-General Ledford and see what the Free Worlds League can add to this force but I wouldn’t expect anything from the periphery states.”
“By the time they arrived it would all be over.”
“I wouldn’t hold my breath about gaining anything from House Liao.”
“Perhaps a knife in the back” Victor half joked rising from his chair opposite him Bannister also rose extending his hand to shake Victor’s.
“You do not need to do this” Bannister said as they shook hands.
“I owe it to my father and to Peter to try.” He admitted having thought about it he wouldn’t forgive himself if something happened to the Lyran people or Jessica that he could have stopped. He thought about what Bannister had said about his father Hanse Davion did not live with what could have been he went out to fix it. “Now I have to try and explain this to my wife.”
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“You agreed to what?” Danai Centrella-Davion said angrily stepping towards her husband off to the side Burton and Sterling stood in a stunned silence.
“I agreed to help…” Victor repeated
“You owe them nothing” Danai said stepping closer to him she was as beautiful as ever and probably as angry as he had ever seen her. “You are not the First Lord anymore, you’re not the Archon-Prince!” She almost shouted turning her back on him hiding her tears.
“Dad, this isn’t your fight” Burton said but Victor hadn’t taken his eyes off Danai’s back. “Your place is at home, we have our own problems.”
“Son, I helped form this Star League, I took the fight to the Clans before I know better than anyone how they think. Victor Focht for all his experience doesn’t know how they think I can bring the Falcons to heel.”
“Sire… Victor, the Falcons are not the Falcons you once fought” Sterling Davion reminded him her experience as Snow Raven Khan had taught her that the Clans were changing; and perhaps not for he better.
“I know the risks” he said looking at his son “which is why I’m borrowing the Black Prince.”
“The Fox’s Teeth are also on-board; they were supposed to be training with the SLDF I guess that can wait and some live fire training is in their future.”
“They are most welcome to join up” Victor said as Danai turned “I hope our strength shows the Falcons this isn’t a fight they can win and their fighting skills are not needed” he said looking at his wife. “Danai…”
“No, it’s my turn” said cutting him off “I’m not happy with this decision, this was stupid of you, you retired” she said rapidly taking a step towards him. “But this kind of impulsive decision is why I fell in love with you” she said stepping again towards him “I’m coming with you, we’re doing this together.” She said as Victor pulled her close to him it wasn’t part of his plan but she had been at his side during the Clan War and had given him a family he was very proud of he wouldn’t turn her away now they were in this together.
Royal Visit
Milnerton, Sian Commonality
Capellan Confederation
12th November 3110
With rumours circulating about the whereabouts of the Capellan Confederation’s secret shipyard Chancellor Dao-Shen Liao took the time to visit Milnerton on the FWL border with three elite regiments of troops and the WarShips Chancellor’s Pride and two Wudang Jian-class Frigates leading many to believe that the visit was a prelude to a new Capellan offensive into the Free Worlds League.
Erinyes (Modified Newgrange-class)
Orbit of Son Hoa
Son Hoa Theater, Lyran Commonwealth
18th November, 3110
An old man looked out across the dark space onto the fires below, idly spotting wrecking of the former LCS Storm Watch float by. The planet’s surface glowed red hot as magma erupted from its broken skin. A day ago, the planet was a vibrant, fertile world, housing a population of over three billion souls.
Now, a day apart, only ashes and uncontrollable fires remained as a declaration of war it was quite a statement.
“It is as your Messiah had foretold. ‘A future of nought but fire and ash.’” The much younger woman standing next to him remarked, a sadistic smile creeping on her middle-aged, yet beautiful face.
Her response elicited a rare smile from him in return. Though she remained a sceptic even after all these years of his righteous cause and in the Word of Blake, he long ago acknowledged she was a firm believer in him. And though he valued fanaticism far more than firm loyalty in his fellow believers, he had long ago accepted loyalty was sometimes more useful.
“The long-simmering fire within our fellow believers and our Circinian brothers and sisters will be once again lit this day,” he replied out loud.
“And today will be a day long-remembered, my love,” she responded back as she pulled an arm around his waist, an action he seldom allowed in public, yet today he instead returned. “Let us watch the fire below for a while yet, beloved.”
He answered her request by resting his head upon her shoulder. They both stood there, gently floating in microgravity, with their arms around each other, as the planet below continue to its fiery death.
Across the entire Inner Sphere, the holovideo of Son Hoa under continuous orbital bombardment, warning the Lyrans to leave Circinus space or else.
In Lyran space, elements of both the Third and Sixteenth Lyran Regulars act out against the Circinus worlds they are garrisoning forcibly putting down peaceful protests resulting in dozens of deaths, forcing the Circinus Son Hoa Theater March Militia RCT into action as the militia quickly moves to protect the civilians, effectively initiating a civil war throughout the Son Hoa Theater with pirate forces supporting the local militia forces they force the regular Lyran military and hired mercenaries from their garrisons.
In the next week, Lyran forces manage to hold the worlds of Andiron and Baltazar III, while the worlds of Circinus, Clayborne II, and Dierdre’s Den are overrun by the militia and pirate forces and a new Cirincus Federation is declared.
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FSS Black Prince (Mercury-class Battleship)
Nadir Point, Furillo
Halfway Province, Lyran Commonwealth
24th November 3110
Having used one of the “ready JumpShips” in the Terra system Victor Steiner-Davion had finally rendezvoused with the FSS Black Prince, the FSS Lucian Davion II and the FSS Adam Davion in the Furillo system. On board the ships was McKinnon’s Regiment (Fox’s Teeth), a special detachment of the DMI and the Wild Geese mercenary regiment.
Entering the Black Prince’s main briefing room he saw Admiral Kristos Leroux, the commander of the Black Prince, and Colonel Canin McKinnon, the commander of the Fox’s Teeth. Immediately Victor recoignized Canin McKinnon, the son of Ross McKinnon, “it has been many years Colonel”
“Too many, sire” McKinnon replied bowing his head slightly Victor nodded he reminded Victor of his father in his prime compact, muscled and with a very serious look. From Canin he turned to the commander of the Black Prince. Admiral Kristos Leroux was unique in the upper echelon of the FSN in that he had not been born in the Federated Suns instead Leroux had been born a member of Clan Nova Cat and captured in battle several years before. As with many former Clansmen Leroux had adopted their new state as their own and he had excelled in WarShip command and combat showing loyalty to the Davion family that verged on fanatical rising through the ranks at a pace that few others could match. Before Victor had left to become First Lord he had been serving as executive officer of the Black Prince.
“Admiral, what’s our status?”
“We have begun to recharge our drives, sire; it will take us another twenty-one days before we are ready to jump again.” He said giving details on the Black Prince “Commanding-General Focht and elements of the First Royal Regimental Brigade have arrived in the Tharkad system while the SLS Wasp, the Cavalier and Vanguard along with two Tatsumaki II-class Destroyers and ground force elements including the Ninth Illician Lancers and the 241st Battle Combat Group are in the Canonbie system.”
“Admiral have our communications team send a message to Focht he needs to know that we are joining him and that we should attack together. What about on Donegal?” Victor asked taking a seat at the table beside him Danai took her seat with Leroux sitting opposite them and Colonel McKinnon remaining at the briefing screen.
“Sire, at 0842 this morning Clan Jade Falcon hit the Second Royal Guards RCT on Donegal with six clusters.” McKinnon explained as the screen showed a graphic of Jade Falcon icons landing on Donegal. “Lyran Intelligence has identified two of these units the Jade Falcon Guards and the Delta Solahma Clusters.” He said the Jade Falcon Guards were famous, or infamous, while the Solahma would be used as a sacrifice to weaken the Falcon’s target. “The other appear to be Eyrie Clusters but none have been seen in combat with Inner Sphere forces…”
“That crazy bitch!” Victor suddenly exclaimed bringing a surprised look from everyone around “Jana Pryde, she’s done a Marthe Pryde” he said looking around “she’s graduated their trainee warriors early and sent them to Donegal to become warriors.”
“Unproven warriors given such a task of seizing Donegal?” Leroux questioned his face showing disgust for the strategy.
“It’s almost like they don’t want to claim it” Danai Centrella-Davion said quietly
“Or they are after another target” Victor suggested
“There is no other movement along the Falcon lines” McKinnon reported
“Maybe she he no intention on capturing Donegal” Victor said quietly “maybe this is just Coventry a big public attack intended on taking attention away from a weak Falcon Touman?” He said thinking out aloud. “Colonel, continue please” he said looking at McKinnon.
“Yes, sire, it appears that the attack on the Second Royal Guards was intended on inflicting as much damage as possible to the RCT. The Falcon BattleMechs carried inferno rounds for their short range missile launchers and almost exclusively cluster rounds for their autocannons when they handed they concentrated on the House Steiner armoured vehicles, infantry and battle armour forces. Fortunately for the Lyrans several of their units were outfitted with vehicle fire extinguishers which reduced the damage done by the fire” he said as the display screen showed a demonstration vehicle firing its fire extinguishers when struck by fire the vehicle was still damaged but survived the attack. “Unfortunately their infantry was not as fortunate.” He said neither McKinnon nor the displays needed to show the effect inferno explosions would have had on the conventional and battle armoured infantry. “The Royal Guards were able to destroy approximately two clusters worth of forces of the Falcons but have been severely weakened…”
“What a waste of resources…” Leroux noted looking at the data they had on what had happened on Donegal so far. “I apologise Lord Davion” he said “I did not mean to interrupt.”
“Nonsense, Admiral, you background was a contributing factor to you gaining this post” he said Kristos Leroux looked at him with a strange look. “You had the skills and temperament to command a WarShip of the Federated Suns Navy but your unique heritage only added to the argument that allowed you to gain the command of this vessel. Admiral Leroux your opinion is always welcome especially on Clan matters.”
“I understand” he said “these warriors represented the next generation of Jade Falcons to throw them into combat without completing their training or their final trials is a waste it is exactly what the Clans strive to avoid.”
“Yet history repeats itself they did this at Coventry and now here” Danai said “you’re not the only one reviving old habits.” She said turning to her husband.
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Across the light years on Incukalns Khan Jana Pryde read the report from Donegal and beyond. “Two clusters essentially lost in battle both Jade Arrow and Emerald Talon are damaged and the Flygia escaped?” She said looking at Loremaster Taman Malthus
“Aff, Khan Pryde, the ship's crew was able to force off our boarding teams and jump to Coventry. We believe Flygia will be crippled for years to come.””
“Do you think they have a chance?” She said indicating back to the troops on Donegal.
“Our forces can overwhelm the defences on Donegal” the Loremaster said “and if they fail our WarShips can sterilize he surface” he said smiling she wasn’t completely convinced that he was not serious.
“That will not accomplish the goals we need to accomplish” Pryde said “Donegal needs to serve a purpose, and not be wasteful to our Clan. Is our next stage ready?”
“They await you Khan Pryde”
Military Raid
Allied States of John Marik, Twin Sons
District of Lesnovo, Free Worlds League
28th November 3110
Piloting a succession wars era CRB-27 Crab BattleMech which the Twin Sons military had taken from a pirate, refurbished and put back into service Force Commander Petra Furey watched as members of her infantry team, including an entire squad of Elemental bred troopers, entered a military complex of Marshal Pietre Contractor the local commander of the Allied States of John Marik on Twin Sons.
For the last three weeks members of the southern militia under the command of Contractor had raided the Badlands destroying facilities and killing dozens. According to the Allied States it was due to a rise in bandit raids from the Badlands but they refused to allow the Badlands own security forces deal with it. Despite her commanders knowing that Petra had recently fallen in with the hard core dark caste members on Twin Sons they had decided to support her call to arrest Contractor and return him to the Badlands to face justice.
This operation one of nearly a dozen over the last two months had cornered Contractor into a small naval base overlooking the Scabbard Sea, which on any other planet would have been a large lake, there Contractor had planned to board a large freighter which would take him away from his troubles but Petra Furey had struck sooner than expected. Now sitting in her BattleMech Petra found the situation laughable the leader of this military region preparing to run away like a pirate while her Badlands force (which had been called the same) stood ready to deliver justice. Their operation had gone off almost completely without a hitch with her commando team disabling Contractor’s ship before their main assault she had offered them a chance to surrender but they had refused and now, well now most of the base’s defenders were dead or in chains.
One of her cockpit lights began to flash rapidly and she flicked the switch “Furey” she said
“Boss, you need to get down here and have a look at this, you won’t believe what Contractor had hiding here.” Alex one of her Elementals said over the comms. Alex like her other infantry lacked a Battle Armour suit but he made up for that with his brawn born a freeborn son of two former-Smoke Jaguar trueborn Elementals he was easily as large any trueborn.
A little while later Petra had dismounted from her BattleMech and was inside one of the warehouses standing at Alex’s find “in Kerensky’s name” she said low enough for only Alex and his squad to hear. In front of her stood the pieces of a Stormcrow OmniMech the popular Clan Smoke Jaguar medium design lacked arms and one of the legs but on the ground around it laid the parts that would be enough to rebuild the OmniMech. “Where the hell did he get one of these and why is it in pieces?”
“Seems like they salvaged the body and then bought the other parts on the black market and have rebuilt her piece by piece.” Alex said “the parts seem to be from different designs but they do seem to go together and I think that the OmniMech can be rebuilt and be operational again.” He said leaning in towards Petra “to the victor goes the spoils Force Commander.”
“If only it worked out like that” Petra said looking at the OmniMech
“Perhaps it should OvKhan” Alex said. Hours later they had pulled back into the Badlands the Allied States of John Marik issued an official protest with the Badlands rulers but Contractor still felt charges with an overwhelming amount of evidence against him. The Stormcrow was moved to a secure facility in Port Arthur while the techs there tried to rebuild the OmniMech.
Ciudad del Mar, Buena
Alarion Theatre, Lyran Commonwealth
30th November, 3110
Kathy Parks rubbed her old eyes as she reviewed the latest military reports in the Son Hoa Theater. At seventy-eight years old, she was far past her prime and had finally retired shortly after the Stone Spirit Incursion had ended nearly four years ago.
She groaned as she felt the arthritis in her left hand act up again, softly reminding her she had done her duty, done it well, and had downright earned her retirement. Yet, she forced herself to continue reading the report as she made notes.
The days following the attack on Son Hoa by the Erinyes was a nightmare for the entire Lyran Commonwealth to say the least. In the first twenty-four hours after the attack alone, the Estates General used its Emergency Powers TWICE, something she never thought possible. The first was to remove Henrietta Bradford as the Lyran Intelligence Corps Director and the second was the removal of the entire Son Hoa Theater out from under Jessica Steiner’s direct control. Though it was officially only a temporary measure until the Clans in the North were beaten back, the Estates General message was crystal clear.
Donegal was the proverbial line in the sand. Should the planet fall, the Archon would soon thereafter.
Kathy knew Jessica wouldn’t take the Estates General threat lying down. A mere two hours after the Estates General’s decision was announced, Kathy was escorted to the planetary HPG station here on Buena. There, via HPG holo-conference, Jessica informed her she had selected Kathy to become Archonette of the Son Hoa Theatre for the duration.
To say she was shocked was an understatement. But she well-understood what Jessica was doing. With the Estates General seemingly united in a stand against the Archon, instead of fighting the assembly, the Archon had not only acquiesced, but pulled a fast one on the assembly. By nominating Kathy, a well-known recently retired military official, to the post before the Estates General was done squabbling over their own pick, the public saw the Estates General and the Archon were seemingly working together rather than at odds with one another.
She shook her head as she made another note, this time on known logistics within the theatre. What the Archon wanted, however, was a follower in power. And that Kathy was against. She would support the Archon, surely, but not follow her every command. And as an archonette, she held near autonomous power, eerily similar to that of the Isle of Skye.
She smiled as she remembered the response from the Estates General rebuking the Duke of Skye’s moving to become an Archonette in his own right, reprimanding him for “his obvious power play in the face of national calamity.” Served him right, she thought, as she flipped to another page, this one noting specific troop locations.
She had acted quickly in the first forty-eight hours, knowing full well the first seventy-two hours was when the public and thus the Estates General would act in full support of her, requested an additional nine planets be added to the theatre, while New India be formally detached to join Kaumberg Theatre. The same request included four warships with three cruisers minimum to be allocated to the theatre.
She got the planets and the Estates General had promised the warships. She knew she needed the latter now, especially due to losing contact with the worlds of Amel, Belzagor, Cyteen, and New St. Andrews in the past two days.
She again shook her head, idly making a note to redistribute the military forces now under her command, as well as recognizing the Buena Training Battalion as a federal one. Politics would have no place within the theatre's military apparatus, she had promised to the public upon accepting the Archon’s nomination of her as Archonette.
Jessica was not happy at her at the moment for both moves. But with those moves, she made it clear to all political sides. Kathy was not anyone’s pawn. She was a loyal supporter of both the Lyran realm and the current Archon and she counted the Archon as a personal friend. But she would do what she thought was right. For the theatre and for the realm.
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Interesting update. I like it! ;D
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Combat Information Centre, FSS Silver Lance
Zenith Point, June
Crucis March, Federated Suns
7th December 3110
The FSS Silver Lance emerged into the June system in a flash of light continuing its patrol, with the McKinnon’s Raiders Regiment in the Lyran Commonwealth, the Robinson Block III-class Transport ship had been assigned to patrol the Nova Cat border and the Federated Suns periphery region. As they energed into the system they detected a cluster of wreckage close by.
“Report” Captain Margaret Joan demanded from her command chair “prepare all small craft and DropShips for recovery options, I want communication with June Planetary Command as well.”
“Analysing” the sensor operator then added after a moment “Captain, it’s the FSS Crucis March… debris suggests that its DropShips and aerospace fighters have also been destroyed.”
“Survivors?”
“Unknown”
“Not good enough, Mr Smith, move us within one hundred metres of the largest piece of wreckage, detach DropShips and begin recovery options. Sensors, I want a detailed analysis of what caused this and reverse the path of the remaining wreckage and identify if anything out there is not consistant with what the Crucis March had onboard.” She commanded looking at the screens as the Silver Lance’s transit drive was brought online and the ship began to move away from June’s star she felt a small sense of gravity in the CIC but remained in her chair.
Deep within the Silver Lance DropShips, small craft and aerospace fighters began to launch dropping into space to begin search and rescue operations. The pilots would search the wreckage for their comrades and for a clue to what happened to the ship. Had it been a terrible accident or had someone deliberately destroyed the FSS Crucis March?
Search and rescue operations recovered sixteen survivors from the Cruis March’s wreckage and two aerospace fighter pilots. Over the course of a week long investigation the Silver Lance found that four of the Crucis March’s aerospace fighters were missing as was a civilian Mule-class DropShip which had been awaiting a JumpShip. According to salvaged gun camera footage and sensor records the FSS Crucis March had been attacked by another WarShip one that was approximately 700,000 tons in weight and carried Clan Snow Raven’s insignia, the Sceptre. Also according to the the Davion III’s surviving sensor records the destroyer had caused some damage to the larger Snow Raven-built vessel but it still appeared to be fully operational and had taken salvage and supplies from the Crucis March’s cargo bay and ammunition stores.
Kittery Royal Training Range
Kittery, Kittery Prefecture
Star League Protectorate World
12th December 3110
At the Star League Defence Force’s extensive training facilities on Kittery the Fourth Kittery Regimental Brigade, Stone’s Pride, began to test a modified version of the Star League-era Centurion Weapon System which they have named the Tight Steam Electo Magnetic Pulse Weapon, or TSEMP for short. While the Centurion targeted specific circuits within certain BattleMechs limiting its usability the TSEMP could be used against any BattleMech and cause the same affect shutting it down. Unfortunately, of the four prototypes available on Kittery three exploded during their initial testing phase leading to calls for a redesign from concerned SLDF officers adding to research and development’s problems the fourth weapon preformed below its expected capabilities.
Briefing Room, FSDS Davion’s Heart (Conquistador-class DropShip)
Pirate Point, Donegal
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
16th December 3110
Twenty-one days in the Furillo had seemed like an eternity but once the jump drives on the three WarShips had been primed they were ready to jump directly to Donegal with Victor commanding that they avoid wasting more time with a visit to Tharkad. Unlike many systems Donegal had been extensively mapped and so they could enter the system at any of the pirate points closer to the planet’s surface. At 0600 the FSS Black Prince, FSS Lucian Davion II and FSS Adam Davion entered the system deploying their DropShips an hour after the arrival of the WarShips the JumpShips carrying the First Royal Regimental Brigade’s DropShips along with Commanding-General Victor Focht entered the system. Under acceleration Prince Victor Steiner-Davion walked into the briefing room of his Conquistador-class DropShip and saw Colonel Canin McKinnon standing at the display “what’s the status in system Colonel?”
“It’s very strange sir the Lyrans have been able to contain the Jade Falcons with their numbers reduced to two active Clusters but it was at a great cost.” He said showing the display the Fifteenth Lyran Guards RCT had been virtually destroyed its numbers folded into the Second Royal Guards RCT to keep the unit operational. “It appears we may have come all this way for nothing.”
“There’s still the two WarShips” Victor point out not that he wanted to take his ground forces against them.
“What was the point to this attack? They come here kill hundreds of troops and lose as many of their own but they don’t reinforce their position.” McKinnon asked looking at the screens it didn’t make sense.
“Blooding new troops eliminating the old blood?” Victor said thinking of the Falcon tactics when they attacked Coventry which was similar to this current strategy. “Old habits” he muttered thinking back to that conflict the fighting for Coventry could have gone so wrong “It’s a brutal tactic even for the Falcons…” he said as the display updated it showed several DropShips leaving Donegal’s surface. “Now what?” Victor wondered watching as the DropShips boosted to join the nearby Falcon WarShips. The door to the briefing room opened again showing a young Leftenant who handed Colonel McKinnon a piece of paper.
“Oh my god…” McKinnon said looking at the Prince “sire, the Falcons have entered the Odessa system.”
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“I am Khan Jana Pryde of Clan Jade Falcon, I claim Odessa and Gabriel for Clan Jade Falcon.” Jana Pryde said from the command deck of the Mississippi-class Turkina’s Might as the Battleships weapons tore into the the LCS Typhoon from the otherside of the Typhoon the Patriot-class Ironhold Remembered also attacked the Battle-cruiser. “All ground forces head to the planet. Space assault forces head for the Ruins and seize the facility along with the ships there.” She commanded broadcasting the message to the two WarShips and their DropShips.
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“HOW COULD WE HAVE MISSED THIS?” Victor nearly screamed in anger as his body fought against the increased gravity forces as the DropShips continued to accelerate towards the jump point. Since the Falcons had abandoned Donegal and were now burning towards them Victor had ordered their combined forces to reverse course heading for the zenith jump point “the Jade Falcons must have been massing for this strike.”
“Lyran Intelligence believed that these were reinforcements for Donegal” Victor Focht’s hologram replied.
“What about our own intelligence?”
“There were clearly failings in…”
“FAILINGS!” Victor shouted interrupting the man instantly seeing the abashed look on the younger man’s face. “With respect Commanding-General you command the SLDF and that includes regular army, special operations, naval forces and intelligence the buck stops with you.” He said calming down as he spoke seeing Focht taking in the criticism Victor had been slightly harsh but this situation was not what they needed. “Now we need to make a contingency plan” he said “we have a seven-day lead on the Falcons we need to communicate with Tharkad and have them direct their reinforcements to Odessa.”
“We could jump out at the pirate point the JumpShips could return.” Focht suggested
“Negative” Victor said cutting the younger man off again “to do that we would need to begin deacceleration now that would allow the Falcons to overrun us while we charged our drives. If we run to the Jump point, then they also need to slow down giving us time to recharge our engines and escape. We do not need to fight over this system we need to pick our battles wisely.” He said feeling like he was giving Focht a lecture suppressing a smile thinking of all the times that his father Anastasius had lectured him during the Clan War. “Direct Wasp to Odessa as well, we are going to break the Falcons there.”
Defence Alert
Capellan March, Federated Suns
20th December 3110
“People of the Capellan March, I am Duchess Kym Hasek, and it is my duty today to inform you that the Defence Alert Level in the Capellan March has been raised to Defence Level 4.” She said looking into the camera “this follows a series of peaceful protests across our realm that have turned violent. We believe that these protests were influenced by external factors and the Department of Military Intelligence looking for reports if you believe that anything is out of the ordinary or a threat to the realm.”
She said looking at the camera “our realm is safer if we all watch out for threats towards it. Until further notice any large gathering of civilians will be monitored by an AFFS presence as well as local police and security authorities we will ensure the security of all of our civilians.”
Victor Davion’s quarters, FSDS Davion’s Heart
Pirate Point, Donegal
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
23rd December 3110
In the week that it took Victor Steiner-Davion to make it to the jump point the two Jade Falcon WarShips had significantly closed on the Inner Sphere formation to the point that it would be close for them to escape without a conflict. The door for Victor’s quarters rang as Victor heard alarms through the ship signalling that the Black Prince was planning to use its transit drive. Victor made his way to the door to find Admiral Kristos Leroux standing waiting for him “Admiral?”
“Sire, the Falcons have increased their speed and will be here before we are able to jump. We must delay them.”
“The Falcons will not be able to stop in time for the jump point.” Victor said thinking through the actions of the Clan.
“No, they will not” Leroux agreed “sire, the DropShips carrying the McKinnon’s Raiders and the Wild Geese are being prepared to detach from their collars and await JumpShip retrieval.”
“What?” Victor demanded he did not like the sound of what Leroux was saying.
“It is an old tradition, sire, the WarShip remains behind to cover the retreat. Black Prince has the capabilities to hold off those ships.”
“Not alone!” Victor snapped he didn’t like the plan at all “no Admiral I will not allow you to sacrifice this Battleship and her crew so far from home, you may be able to damage those ships but they will surely destroy the Black Prince.” He said pausing thinking things through; there was only one other option. “Now with the Adam Davion and Lucian Davion in support you would have more chance of survival correct?” Leroux nodded “then I release both to support your operations.”
“Sire, you cannot go to Odessa without WarShip support”
“I will not be the Wasp and her support will be on the border within a few days. I am not rushing into another Falcon trick.” He said looking back into the room at his wife “give them hell Admiral.”
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The next day JumpShips began to escape the system carrying the Federated Suns and SLDF ground forces clear of the system. On board one of the Lyran Commonwealth Monolith-class JumpShips which had been sent to collect them Victor Steiner-Davion stood like a statue watching the holotank as the WarShip icons closed to engagement range.
“Herr Steiner-Davion, we must leave this system” the ship’s master said approaching from the side. He was young perhaps in his early thirties his tone was polite but lacked the respect due someone of Victor’s Steiner heritage. Given his history with the Lyran Commonwealth Victor would not hold it against him.
“Negative Kaptin Kerner, those are my people out there I will do them the justice of seeing them engage in our defence.” He said he saw the young man’s reaction to his words. “I am sorry Kaptin Kerner while I grew up in this nation and served on many of its worlds I gave up the right to call your people my own a long time ago.” He said looking back at the screens “the men and women on board those ships grew up when I was First Prince I am connected to them and will be until my last breath.”
“Yes, sire” Kerner said changing his tone towards Victor “the past is the past and it cannot be changed even if that is what we desired.”
“One thing humanity has not conquered” he said as the icons continued to close “time.”
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“We will take them down the port side” Leroux said from his command chair watching the screens “have the Adam remain in our wake they are to follow on our hits that will allow them to hit harder for their size.” He said “Lucian is to manoeuvre as they see fit and continue the barrage of missiles. We need to tax their heat dispensation systems.” He said as the first extreme range shots were exchanged mostly capital missiles but also some laser hits from both sides Leroux watched as the smallest of his ships the Adam Davion slid behind the Black Prince while the Lucian Davion II accelerated ahead, the Avalon II had the armour to take a couple of hits before having its combat capabilities degraded.
Ahead of the Federated Suns WarShips the two Jade Falcon vessels also manoeuvred with the smaller Nightlord-class Battleship moving ahead of the larger Mississippi-class the two ships moving to maintain their lock on the Lucian Davion II. “All hands get ready for some chop” Leroux warned “communications make sure our C3 net is up, assault DropShips and aerospace fighters hold position and get ready.” He said as another barrage was exchanged between the two sides this time the Black Prince’s heavy naval gauss rifles and forward particle cannons were added to the mix of fire from the Federated Suns WarShips. There was a reason that the Mercury-class was feared and now it was displayed as its weapons guided by the sensor data of the Lucian Davion ripped across the front of the Nightlord causing heavy damage even as the WarShip’s own weapons and those of the Mississippi behind opened fire on the Lucian Davion, the Jade Falcons had done the same as the Federated Suns vessels and concentrated on one vessel. As capital missiles from the Lucian Davion and Adam Davion joined the Black Prince’s fire the return fire from the two Battleships blew through the Lucian Davion’s port side breaching the Avalon’s armour.
“Lucian’s hull is breached, but emergency bulkheads have closed, no news on casualties.”
“Have her break formation turn to starboard and clear the path we will take the hits.” Leroux commanded the concentrated fire from the two Battleships had been too much for the Cruiser. “Message to Adam Davion they need to cover Lucian’s damaged arc both ships are to continue missile bombardment of Nightord.” He said a moment later the Avalon II slipped out of formation even as the Mississippi fired on her again hitting the vessel’s port side again this time causing heavy damage midway along the vessel’s hull as the ship tried to clear the area the Congress II Adam Davion accelerating to join the wounded ship. “Status on the Nightlord?”
“Operational but no longer firing, possible fire control damage.” The sensor officer reported together the two Battleships would rip open the Black Prince, if the missiles from the Black Prince’s support ships had weakened them enough to take them out of the fight they might have a chance.
“Let’s make them pay for that damage concentrate our fire on the Nightlord, defensive measures against the Mississippi, release all aerospace squadrons to strike missions on the Mississippi.” He commanded the Air Boss who looked surprised “we can take a couple of strafing runs if the Falcons are brave enough.” He said around the Black Prince aerospace fighters accelerated towards the mighty Jade Falcon Battleship as the Mercury’s guns continued to pound the Nightlord into scrap. The display was a very clear message to the Jade Falcons and anyone else who may be watching to compete against a vessel like the Mercury you needed to spend as much time on defences as on firepower. The Battleship’s fire seemed to intensify as it closed on the Nightlord which rotated as it closed on the Black Prince turning onto it’s back as the Black Prince’s fire continued to damage the vessel hatches on the underside of the ship opened releasing its cargo of Elementals and ProtoMechs to attack the Mercury even as the other Jade Falcon Battleship continued to pound the Federated Suns capital vessel.
“All crew prepare to repel boarders.” Leroux transmitted throughout the ship “point defence, thin them out.” He ordered moments later seeing that the vessel’s conventional autocannons and lasers were already acting cutting down several of the incoming Falcons. “Weapon control main guns on the Mississippi make them count.” He commanded as the second Jade Falcon WarShip came into view “Adam and Lucian to continue to fall back we’ve delayed them enough both vessels are to continue to trade fire with the Nightlord.” He said as the damaged Nightlord regained some weapon control and engaged the Adam Davion ripping the smaller Congress II almost in half as the Nightlord’s weapons tore through the armour and into the ship’s superstructure Leroux was surprised to see the Congress return fire on the larger ship despite the damage it had taken. “Stavag” Leroux cursed watching the battle unfold as much as he concentrated on the second Battleship. Between them the two ships had enough capital missiles, autocannons and lasers to stop the damaged Nightlord but the bigger ship could break either of them with the weapons it had left.
“BOARDERS ON HULL, BOARDERS ON HULL, BOARDERS ON HULL.” The automated warning system activated as sensors detected battle armour and ProtoMechs landing on the hull.
“SHUT THAT DAMNED THING OFF!” Leroux shouted as more fire from the Mississippi slammed into the Black Prince. “Helm maintain course and rotate the hull to starboard, full rotation, weapons control pass to all stations prepare for immediate rotation! Air Boss, our fighters need to do more against that damned Battleship I want her hull breached!” He commanded as the massive Mercury-class Battleship began to roll along its axis the ship’s weapons targeting the Mississippi as the ship turned. The sudden movement of the Black Prince had the same effect as a BattleMech dropping to its knees when boarded by Elementals during combat the rapid movement making some of the Elementals and ProtoMechs lose their footing on the hull falling into space.
As the Mercury rotated in space the Mississippi slid past the ship while continuing to be buzzed by aerospace fighters. “Sir, aerospace squadron commanders reporting they are approaching bingo fuel, the Mississippi is moving out of their engagement ranges.”
“Recall fighters. Helm end rotation, bring us about and begin deceleration. Forward weapons continue to engage primary target.” He said looking at the holotank seeing that Lord Victor Steiner-Davion’s Monolith still remained in system. “Communications send message to the First Prince” he said smiling as he used Victor’s old title, the one so many members of the crew still used to describe him. “Inform him we did what we could and will continue to engage but he needs to leave now” he commanded.
In space the FSS Black Prince turned in space flipping end over end its main engines engaging nearly as soon as the rotation was complete beginning to counter the ship’s momentum as aerospace fighters retreated to their mothership. The Black Prince’s forward weapons continued to target the Mississippi as it began its own rotation to decelerate before the jump point the Battleship’s guns were not on the Black Prince however instead the Jade Falcon vessel targeted and finished off the Adam Davion which had struggled to retreat any further since the Nightlord opened fire on the vessel. “Have Lucian cease fire and take survivors from Adam” Leroux said watching as the Lucian Davion continued to engage the two Jade Falcon Battleships causing yet more damage to both with their forward capital missile batteries it took a lot to destroy a Battleship. At the jump point the Monolith which carried Victor Steiner-Davion finally left the system. “Broadcast to all Falcon troops on board it is time for them to surrender this battle is over.”
The Elementals and ProtoMechs which had boarded the Black Prince continued to fight on for several hours after Kristos Leroux’s command with each of them agreeing to turn over their weapons and become bondsmen to the Federated Suns. As a further blow to the Jade Falcons two days later on the Christmas Day the Nightlord-class Battleship Emerald Talon attempted to jump from the system only for its KF Drive to fail and shut down stranding the vessel in the Donegal system. With the FSS Black Prince and FSS Lucian Davion II closing on the vessel and the Mississippi already jumping away and the vessel facing insurmountable odds the crew of the Nightlord had no choice but to surrender to Lyran authorities. As Isorla from the battle the Federated Suns WarShips claimed all of the Emerald Talon’s remaining aerospace fighters and an Ordun-class DropShip filled with salvaged parts taken from the battlefields of Donegal several members of the Emerald Talon’s crew and aerospace pilots demanded to be taken as bondsmen to the Federated Suns as it was the AFFS and not the Lyrans who had defeated them in battle.
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Attached the WarShip and Unit listings - a special thanks to Vition2 who helped clean up the DCMS and Snow Raven lists
And a link to the map
https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=1092.30#lastPost (https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=1092.30#lastPost)
Please enjoy
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Great updates :) And thanks for updating the maps and warships! :)
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Yes, great updates. Bad year for warships, with nearly 20 biting it. ;D
Also updated my version of the map, link in my sig.
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Vition2 your map is awesome seriously I love them!
Into 3111 again this update is pretty massive in this case because of James Tanaga and Vition2. DOC_Agren I hope you like what I've done with your unit Korbin's Kommandos in this opening fiction. Vition2 I hope you like what I did with your last bit on New Samarkand.
3111
Coventry Spaceport, Port St William
Coventry, Coventry Province
Lyran Commonwealth
3rd January 3111
Stepping from the damaged DropShip Hammerfall Colonel Burt Korbin and his son Lt Colonel Hermann Korbin walked out onto the busy tarmac of Coventry’s primary spaceport. “It’s nice to be back on Commonwealth soil” the elder Korbin said glancing at his son.
“It would have been nicer to return in victory instead of defeat.”
“We were not defeated, son, we were out maneuverer Clan Fire Mandrill had the support and the firepower to steamroll us at anytime. As far as the Clans are concerned we are dezgra in their eyes but they let us go there’s something to be happy with.” He pointed out as a pair of armoured limousines drove up.
“I don’t like sucking up to the Bradfords.”
“Neither do I” Burt said as the limo’s doors opened “but Hammerfall won’t go much further we need assistance in giving her a full overhaul or replacing her and there’s only one family that would support us without trying to take control over the Kommandos that’s the Bradfords.” He said climbing into the limo his son loitering at the door “look I know it isn’t going to be easy to see her again but we don’t have a choice now get in the limo.”
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The drive from the spaceport to the Bradford’s Mansion was a short one. The city of Port St. William was a busy one with multiple companies working for the city, for Coventry and the Bradford family but it was still a beautiful world with most of the factories underground or non-polluting. The Bradford Family Estate was on the outskirts of Port St. William and while small it was surrounded by granite stone walls and guarded by members of the First Coventry Cuirassiers the limo pulled up to the front of the Bradford residence.
Burt and Hermann Korbin stepped out of the limo and were met by one of the Bradford family’s staff and brought through and into the main meeting room there stood Duke Thomas Bradford the head of the Bradford family and the Duke of Coventry. Beside him stood his oldest surviving daughter Duchess Alessandra Bradford who smiled when she saw Hermann. “Welcome back to Coventry, Colonel Korbin.”
“Thank you, Duke Bradford” the elder Korbin said shaking Bradford’s hand.
“I hear that you have agreed to sign a new contract with the Lyran Commonwealth but have asked for your first assignment to be deferred without pay?”
“That’s correct” Burt Korbin said glancing at his son.
“Duke Bradford the Kommanndos took heavy damage fighting against the pirate forces that have helped reform the Cirincus Federation and we would like some revenge.” Hermann said looking between both of them. “Our Fortress was badly damaged several times during our time in the Erdvynn Province the ship is space worthy but it isn’t ready for operations.” He said “we have some money laid aside and some clan technology to trade.”
“You should be able to afford any ship on the market” Bradford suggested.
“We would like to purchase a Fesnyng” Hermann said naming one of the Lyran Commonwealth's newest type of DropShip.
“Those are not for sale” Alessandra said immediately and quite harshly.
“But a well-placed word from the leaders of a Provincial Capital can go a long way.” Korbin said looking at his old friend “we can still help defend the Commonwealth Thomas we just need a push in the right direction.”
“I think there is something I can do for you come with me, Colonel, we can discuss this further elsewhere and leave these two to become reacquainted.” He said glancing at Alessandra and Hermann. The two older men slowly made their way out of the room.
“Your father seems to be doing well even if he is leaning on my father for support again” Alessandra said moving across the room to pour them both a drink. He watched her move she had brunette hair and the blue knee length dress she wore was tight enough to be flattering but also functional.
“They are old friends and we will pay for the DropShip and anything else we buy. The fighting in Erdvynn took its toll” Hermann admitted looking at the door that their fathers had left through “we lost some good people and all the salvage we’ve taken in the world won’t replace them.”
“You seem to have matured yourself” she said returning with the glasses filled with what smelled like Coventry Scotch Hermann took one of the glasses and took a sip it was strong but sweet. “Ready for a command Colonel?” She asked wondering if he could be swayed from the mercenary command.
“My father is the Kommandos commander. I will command when the time is right.” He said briskly making it clear that he was a mercenary warrior and was not interested in another job.
“My father can get you the DropShip you desire and probably some cut price BattleMechs to make up for your losses.” She said smirking knowing that he would like the answer “but I might have to convince him to delay his decision for personal reasons.” She said stepping closer to him “if I could keep you close I would.” She admitted “it’s been too long Hermann” she said reaching out to touch his face which he leaned into but remained apart from her. “Just remember you have somewhere to return to.”
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As the Kommandos looked to rearmed and ready for a fight elsewhere within the Lyran Commonwealth Kathy Parks sighed as she leaned her old body deep into the comfy chair. She spent the past two hours arguing with the Archon on the ongoing situation regarding the Southwest Covenant.
She shook her head, for the Archon had ordered her to retake the worlds at first. She knew it was but politics, but it rankled her to having to go through the loop of refusing her old friend. Once that was out of the way, the real argument began in earnest.
Simply put, the Archon was beyond angry at for three primary things. First, Kathy had ordered for the remaining elements of the Third, Seventh, and Sixteenth Lyran Regulars to be disbanded. Their personnel and equipment were to form four new Light Combat Teams, forming the Buena Guards Brigade.
Kathy well understood the Archon’s displeasure, but shrugged it off. She needed to reign in control over the remaining Lyran units within the Archonette and could not afford to go through further political and bureaucratic nonsense just to get what she needed. It would be months before they were reorganized and combat ready but it was a start.
Secondly, the Archon and the Estates General were both beyond furious she had acknowledged the Southwest Covenant Worlds. In doing so, she had successfully negotiated to get Lyran prisoners and their dependents out of the Southwest Covenant. If the Archon and the Estates General believed that made them weak, then that was what they could believe. What mattered to her was the Covenant could not use them as hostages and further allowed her and the Archonette a further LCT of trained personnel, though equipment was short, as the Covenant had kept the equipment at Poulsbo and other worlds. She was fine with that. In January the SLDF would began transferring them back into the Archonette.
The last was an agreement Kathy had signed with Rim Motors for the building of aerospace and DropShip factories at Buena. She shook her head, but understood the position the Lyran Archon held on the subject. The much younger woman, her nominal leader, was very much afraid the Buena Archonette would become another Isle of Skye or worse form its own state as Cirincus and the Southwest Covenant had further destabilizing the region.
She had rebutted the move was necessary. When Jessica argued that it was not and she was countermanding the agreement to have Lockheed-CBM and Tharkad Aerospace Group get the contract, the elderly Archonette reminded the Archon she, not Jessica, ruled the Archonette.
What followed next was a disaster as far as their friendship went, what with the Archon reminding Kathy her position was but temporary. That threat Kathy could not let go, for if she had done so, she would be seen as weak-willed to the Archon, something she knew the Estates General would not allow. So she had rebutted her old friend, reminding her the Estates General had taken the Archonette out from under her nose, and that she should concentrate on the Clans and the survival of their realm.
She shook her head. She hoped Jessica would take to heart her parting words. “Stop playing politics and actually use your resources! You got the First Fesnyng and the Mountain Wolves you can still use!” She well knew why the Archon refused to use the First Fesnyng and the Wolves however. The First Fesnyng and Kelly Varnay Jessica had ordered to stay at York or be branded traitors, not wanting them anywhere near her uncle publically having a Varnay anywhere near Victor Steiner-Davion would be political supporters. Although far removed from Lyran politics Victor was still well liked and respected by many. As for the Mountain Wolves, ever since the majority had declared for Clan Wolf and re-joined Clan Society proper, the two lone clusters the Clan had were not trusted by the Estates General.
Now was not the time to play politics, she well knew. And she could only hope the Archon would follow the lead Kathy had quickly set here in the Buena Archonette.
Raven Communications Center, Nexus Ri
Shared World, Border World
Draconis Combine/Raven Alliance (others)
5th January 3111
“Star Colonel, we are receiving a transmission from the Combine,” the comms tech spoke to Errol Cole, Star Colonel of the 5th Raven Chasseurs cluster, the current Star Colonel on duty.
“Put them through”
“Star Colonel, this is Tai-Sho Sasakawa of the Draconis Combine’s Second Genyosha regiment. As per the agreement with the Raven Alliance, we offer a trial against the rights of ownership of the worlds of the Kesai thumb. See the attached file for the details.” Errol Cole looked over the data.
“The Kesai thumb was not part of the agreement, your demand for trial is impudent and unfounded!” Cole rose, slamming his fist on the desk in front of him emphasizing the last words.
“The agreement states ‘Trials will occur over all conflicted worlds,’ though the worlds of the Kesai thumb have been in Raven Alliance hands for more than two decades, the Combine never relinquished their claim to the worlds, and they are thus acceptable targets for trials. The Combine accepts that this may have been unexpected and have included mitigating provisions included in the details of the trials.” Bryant remains stoic in the face of Cole’s ire. “Provide us with the trial locations and forces to be included within twenty-four hours.”
As the Star Colonel sat down to read the documents sent by the Combine he mused, “The Genyosha, they were not supposed to be here.” The specifics of the trials showed some interesting provision, they would trial for five systems: Kesai IV, Delacruz, Groveld III, Niles, and Alegro, but there would be a series of secondary trials fought with low powered weapons, the number of trials depending on the size and strength of the defending forces. If the defenders won every trial the Combine claim to the world would be forfeit, allowing it to remain the the Raven Alliance’s hands, given the number of trials involved for each world, that was a pretty minimal possibility though. Cole contacted the other two Star Colonels on planet, those of the First Raven Battle and Fifth Raven Chasseurs, bidding would begin immediately.
A couple days later, the trials take place nearly simultaneously in various trial locations around the planet. Considering they were arrayed against one of the most elite of Combine formations, the Ravens put up a strong showing, regardless of the actual results, which were anything but in the Ravens favour. In only a single trial the Ravens manage to barely eke out a victory, and primarily due to a combination of location and proper forces for the terrain, giving victory laurels to the First Raven Battle cluster and keeping Niles in the hands of the Ravens. The results are quickly transmitted to the affected planets.
Less than a week later the planned battles begin on Alegro, Kesai IV, Delacruz and Groveld III where Combine and Alliance troops meet in controlled battles. Two units are assigned to each of Kesai IV and Delacruz where the Raven forces include Beta Galaxy’s Fourteenth Raven Battle and the Ninth Raven Wing clusters, while only a single unit is sent each to Alegro and Groveld III the only opposing forces being the native and Alliance militias. On Kesai IV, Delacruz, and Groveld III the Ravens and Combine trade victories back and forth, giving the Combine units a warm up before they move towards the Federated Suns border. The militia unit on Alegro pulls off a surprise, having a couple of old Raven warriors who chose the ‘oblivion’ of a militia unit rather than Solahma manage to surprise their opponents on multiple occasions, and defeat them in every trial. Alegro stays within the Raven Alliance, and the success of ‘washed up old warriors’ forces the Raven Alliance to look at their culture once again.
Main Battle site, Outskirts New Bealton
Odessa, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
7th January 3111
After watching the WarShips that had been sent to defend him move against the Falcons in the Donegal system Victor Steiner-Davion had decided that he would not sit on the side-lines when they finally reached Odessa. Now he sat in Prometheus’ cockpit surrounded by warriors of the McKinnon’s Raiders Regiment as they stalked the Jade Falcons who were steadily retreating from battle.
The entire situation on Odessa had confused Victor when his combined force had arrived in system the two Jade Falcon WarShips were near the Gabriel Facility and were surrounded by assault DropShips and almost a galaxy’s worth of aerospace fighters. The combined Inner Sphere task force of Star League, Lyran Commonwealth and Draconis Combine WarShips remained near Odessa providing complete aerial dominance which made the Falcon’s life even harder. Why the Falcons had pushed to Odessa after retreating from Donegal Victor did not really know but now their forces were being pushed to breaking point by the Inner Sphere ground forces which had been reinforced by the survivors of the First Commonwealth Guards and the SLDF’s Third Special Operations Group who the Jade Falcons had failed to finish off.
“Jade Falcon commander this is Commander Victor Steiner-Davion surrender your forces before you are completely destroyed.” He said marching his assault OmniMech towards the Jade Falcons.
“The little prince himself” a voice almost snarled over the comms in response. “I will not surrender my force to you.” She said from the Falcon line a single Shirke BattleMech stepped clear of the main Falcon lines “I challenge you to single combat Commander.”
“And why would I accept your challenge Clan Commander? Our forces heavily outgun your own.”
“Because I am Khan Jana Pryde leader of the Jade Falcons and if you defeat me little prince you will not only capture my forces but Jade Falcon offensive operations against the Lyran Commonwealth will end.” She replied
“And if you are victorious?” He asked knowing there would be a price.
“Other than the satisfaction of being the one who killed the little prince?” She asked taunting him he scanned her BattleMech as she spoke it was five tons lighter and carried less firepower than his OmniMech and but it was far more manoeuvrable. “You let my Falcons leave this world with what we have won and unmolested and you leave this border.”
“I accept” he said stepping Prometheus clear of the allied line. On his right he noticed two communications lines were active he reached down and toggled both switches “yes, gentlemen” he said addressing Colonel Canin McKinnion and Commanding-General Victor Focht.
“Sire, I was sent to protect you I can’t do this if you volunteer to engage what could be the most dangerous Falcon on this planet.” On his sensors he saw McKinnon’s Warhawk angling towards him fro the right-hand side.
“Victor, you were sent to advise and assist SLDF operations if anyone should be fighting this battle it should be me.” Focht said his own Avatar OmniMech closing on his position. “We should overwhelm them.”
“Negative both of you listen I have her attention and I have the BattleMech to finish her off with. She has challenged me and I have accepted substituting someone else will break the rules of the Trial, the Clanners will declare it void regardless of our victory.” He said moving Prometheus another step forward “I’m doing this just make sure if she is victorious we stick with this agreement breaking it will bring hell from all of the Clans.”
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Victor moved Prometheus to the side engaging with his pair of large lasers one went wide while the other burned down the side of enemy Shirke. In response the great “BirdMech” leapt into the air its wings opening as the assault Mech took to the air triggering both of its own large lasers and its large arm mounted HAG Rifle. Both lasers found their mark on Prometheus’ left leg while the HAG peppered Victor’s Mech’s torso.
“So you can shoot” Victor said halting his eastward course and turning back west towards his target. As he closed all three pulse lasers lit up showing they were in range and Victor sent a green volley of pulse laser fire into the Shirke as it came into land the lasers burning across the enemy Mech’s torso. The Shirke landed gracefully as if it had not just lost almost two tons of armour and again engaged with its lasers and HAG causing yet more damage to Prometheus’ left leg and torso. Victor looked at the armour even with the hits the Dire Wolf had taken it could weather several more before an armour breach. With his run taking him ever closer to the Shirke soon his autocannon would come into play and it would be game over for the Jade Falcon Khan. He continued to fire triggering his pulse lasers as the Shirke engaged with lasers while continuing to close.
With the range closing Victor let loose with his ultra autocannon blasting a great hole in the left torso of the Shirke ripping a large laser and part of the Jade Falcon Mech’s over shoulder wing from the chassis. The Shirke returned fire with its remaining laser and short range missile launcher Victor smirked pulling the trigger on his autocannon again this time the autocannon sounded like it got about half way through its firing cycle before.
CHINK, CHINK, CHINK, as metal ground against metal and the autocannon jammed.
“NO! NO! NO!” He shouted instinctively pulling the firing triggers with his left hand firing his SRMs and pulse lasers at the Falcon Mech as his right hand tried to recycle the autocannon and clear the jam his OmniMech was slammed by another laser blast and the Shirke’s HAG as the Falcon Khan continued to fire before the BattleMech’s right hand slammed into Prometheus scouring over the top of the OmniMech ripping the SRM system from it’s housing Victor felt like his Mech was being ripped apart piece-by-piece. He triggered both of his large lasers again as he tried to clear the jammed autocannon kicking out with his Mech’s leg shattering the left knee of Shirke.
The Falcon BattleMech twisted slamming the the HAG barrel into Victor’s OmniMech at the last moment Victor twisted his Mech away from the incoming barrel as Khan Jana Pryde pulled the trigger on the weapon sending concentrated shots into the Prometheus’ hull. Victor felt the engine shielding being damaged and the cockpit becoming a furnace before gyro housing was shaken by sustained hits he felt Prometheus shaking and begin to go limp. “EJECTING!” Victor shouted pulling the rip cords blowing his OmniMech’s cockpit open and sending his command chair into the air away from the dying Dire Wolf.
Soaring through the air he felt the air superheat as the Falcon Khan fired her large laser into the air trying to catch his ejection chair with her fire with his back turned to the BattleMech below Victor did not see what happened next. On the ground both McKinnon’s Warhawk and Focht’s Avatar both fired on the Falcon Shirke the Falcon Khan screamed into the communications system as she twisted her BattleMech to face the two enemy Mechs “YOU DARE BREAK THIS HONOUR DUEL!” She snarled her BattleMech was in no condition to attack them with the smashed remains of her HAG still imbedded in the hull of the downed Dire Wolf at her feet.
“There is no honour in targeting a downed warrior” Victor Focht said speaking before Canin McKinnon could speak “we will honour the agreement that you made today with Victor, you may leave this world with your spoils of war.”
“We shall return” she said angrily looking again to the sky seeing Victor’s command chair coming down behind SLDF lines. Unseen by the Jade Falcon Khan the command chair came down heavily slamming into a tree knocking Victor Steiner-Davion unconscious with several branches penetrating his coolant suit.
Nova Cat Hall, Oathmaster’s Office
Great Hall of the Clans, City of Andrey,
Tukayyid, Independent Clan Territory
10th January 3111
Entering the Oathmaster’s office from different doors Khan Canin Rosse and saKhan Katrine Devalis stood opposite each other for several moments in silence both wore the black jumpsuit of Clan Nova Cat but Katrine had added a fur cape to her uniform while Canin remained wearing the traditional uniform.
“Khan Rosse” Katrine said breaking the deadlock
“saKhan Devalis” the elder Khan repled equally courtly.
“Enough of this you both hate each other all of the Clans know that.” Oathmaster Klick Lenardon the huge Elemental bred warrior said stepping out from behind his desk standing between them. “Our Clan is one of the most successful we hold two sets of territory comfortably holding off two of the Succession States, we have good trade with all the Clans, we build all of our own weapons and we have virtually no trouble from our civilian population. We should be leading the Clans!” He snapped glancing between the two Khans “instead because you do not like her methods and you do not like his we are fighting as a split Clan instead of a single Clan.”
“There has been good combat opportunities against the Combine to give up the territory we hold there would be foolish.”
“And to begin a war with what is perhaps the most powerful of all the Inner Sphere states would be equally foolish” Canin Rosse said agreeing with his saKhan turning on the Oathmaster “you are correct we are powerful but not powerful enough to break the Federated Suns, perhaps you have spent too much time on Tukayyid.”
“Neg, I have not” Lenardon said looking his Khan in the face “our Clan cannot continue the path it is going we are becoming two Clans not one.”
“We transfer troops between the OZ and Den” Devalis said attempting to defend their current path.
“Not enough” Rosse stated looking her in the face “there are certain units that do not return home and have begun to recruit local forces to their units.”
“They have taken bondsmen…”
“Who have never stepped food in the Den” he said cutting her off “tradition would state that those warriors should return home for their induction into our Clan to understand what being a Nova Cat is about.”
“Tradition does not win wars. Your tradition has been to try and keep our Clan on the Warden path to live alongside the Federated Suns in peace while mine has been to take the fight to the Combine. Each year we take another step forward against them. We are making more progress than even the Ravens are.”
“Because the Ravens have adopted our strategy with the Combine!” Rosse snapped again “if the Combine and Ravens ever finish their conflict and the Federated Suns stops its conflict against the Draconis Combine our people will suffer.”
“But as it stands there does not look like there is much chance of that happening.” Devalis state even this month we have seen the Combine take four Raven worlds and assault five different Federated Suns systems. There back is turned my people face inexperienced warriors as we drive deep into the Combine worlds fall beneath out guns.”
“But for how long?”
“Who cares we are the Clans we take victories and losses as they come, we were created to fight.”
“Not recklessly”
“You old fool our Clan will stagnate under your command! I should have killed you when I had the chance.”
“But you could not make the hard choice.”
“I will make it now” she snapped back.
“NEG, YOU WILL NOT!” Lenardon finally snapped looking at the two of them. “I called you both here because I wished for us to meditate on the choices we have made and to broker peace between our leadership but now I see that between you you have broken our Clan. There is only one course of action…” he began as Katrine Devalis spoke once more.
“Aff, I agree, I declare a Trial of…”
“Neg, no trials” Lenardon said cutting off Devalis before she could say another word “we will call a Grand Council Meeting and call for the creation of a new Clan.” He said seeing Devalis joy at his suggestion while Canin Rosse looked horrified.
“That is not your decision to make Oathmaster.”
“The well-being of our Clan is my choice to make.” He said turning towards Canin Rosse “Khan Rosse your steady leadership had brought out Clan to the place it now is but even you must see that the drain Katrine Devalis operations puts on the Nova Cat Clan could be spent elsewhere. You have already said that there are things that we could not stop the Federated Suns. Without the drain of the raids against the Draconis Combine we could concentrate our resources on them.”
“Perhaps take Galaxies Theta and Iota off the drawing board and into reality.” Katrine Devalis suggested Rosse shot her a glance and she shrugged her shoulders “I see the reports from the Den I know you have stockpiled enough munitions to create at least one more Galaxy possibly two. Our Clan has not seen the operations the others have recently you have only held off forming them because warriors come to my Occupation Zone instead of remaining in the Den.” She said Rosse nodded the attacks on the Draconis Combine were a drain on his Clan’s resources but it was also a release, a far more effective one than the small trials his main forces took against the Federated Suns.
“You do know that the other Clans could oppose this?” Rosse pointed out “the Ravens are close enough that they could even cast you as Dezgra and declare a Trial of Absorbtion.”
“The great Khan Canin Rosse will not let that happen” Katrine Devalis said “for all our differences those are still your people. You will fght for them despite our desire to rule ourselves.”
“What makes you so sure saKhan Devalis?”
“You are an honourable man” she said smiling “and you believe in the Clans the concept of all of the Clans. You believe in Kerensky’s teachings that all of the Clans together make our society work not just a single powerful Clan.”
“Together we could make a powerful Clan.”
“No, Canin, our ways are too different. I wish to see the Inner Sphere burn but you are content to live alongside them. The three galaxies that follow me agree it is why you sent me the warriors that you have and it is why you will release any other warrior who wishes to join us because we desire something different than you do.”
“The Combine…”
“Will die a slow lingering death and I will watch it every step of the way from the head of my Clan.” Katrine Devalis said smiling “I have foreseen it the Dragon will die.” She said looking at the Oathmaster with such conviction that Klick Lenardon could not discount that she had experienced a vision. “We shall call for a Grand Council meeting and our futures will be decided.”
“It could take some time” Lenardon noted “for this we must summon all of the Khans they cannot simply attend by HPG they must see the passion and desire in you, both of you, for this to work.”
“I do not agree with this course of action Katrine Devalis but what the Oathmaster says is true there is a divide within our Clan and I will not allow it to continue. Oathmaster make the calls for a Grand Council Meeting.” Khan Canin Rosse said turning leaving the room.
Border Conflict
Draconis Combine/Federated Suns
15th January 3111
Identifying a weak point in Federated Suns lines the Draconis Combine pushes into the worlds of Thestria, Misery, Elidere IV and Barlowe’s End destroying the Second Albion Military Cadre Regiment the Cameron’s Legion Regiment and the Dragon’s Breath mercenary units. The Combine force had come looking for the Third Ceti Hussars RCT and their attached WarShip but both commands are missing. Another attack against Umjiri is pushed back by elements of the Lexington Combat Group and the Second New Hessen Irregulars as the mercenary commands are trusted by the AFFS to hold this territory which is pointed at Benjamin, the capital of the Combine district of the same name.
A week after these attacks the Federated Suns launches an assault against McComb and Lima as the location of the Third Ceti Hussars RCT is revealed. While two Combat Commands of the Ceti Hussars assaults McComb the RCT’s third Combat Command combines with the Twenty-first Illician Rangers Regiment assaults Lima quickly both systems fall to the Federated Suns.
Across the Inner Sphere the Lyran Commonwealth, SLDF and Mercenary forces combine to retake the Alma Alta and Cameron systems with Commanding-General Victor Focht building on the momentum with Victor Steiner-Davion’s conflict on Odessa began. In both cases the Jade Falcons accept to fight honour bound Trials of Possession for the two systems and lose Alma Alta to Lyran Commonwealth forces while Commanding-General Focht leads the assault on Cameron personally with the SLS Cavalier, an Otey-class Battleship supporting the ground forces but not actually involved in the battle.
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Quantraine
New Samarkand Military District
Draconis Combine
22nd January 3111
“The fortifications you’ve constructed here appear formidable, I suspect that Castles Brian would look upon these with envy.” Akira Kurita spoke looking upon the walls and gun emplacements the Tenth Sword of Light had built upon and into the soil of Quantraine.
“They never would have been possible without the funding and supplies you sent us, my lord, but we still would have been hard pressed against the Ravens had they attacked on their schedule. But we still would have held them off.” Tai-sho Kaoru Kito assured the Coordinator. As his pocket comms chimed. “Excuse me, my lord... How many?... Have they transmitted anything yet?” The Tai-sho turned for a moment, his jaw setting as he continued to speak, before turning back to the impatient Coordinator. “Sir, come with me, multiple Raven WarShips have entered the system, our orbital defenses will not be able to hold them.”
“Get me a comm line to orbit,” with the Tai-sho taken aback, Akira spoke again, “Now!”
It took a few minutes but the Coordinator was eventually brought before a comms unit and transmitted to orbit. “This is Coordinator Akira Kurita, I demand to know the reason for the Raven incursion into this system.”
“Coordinator Kurita, I am Galaxy Commander Ilse Guo commander of the Swift Wing Galaxy of the Snow Ravens, I am honoured to speak with you. The incursions of the Combine over the Kesai thumb are intolerable, and the Raven Alliance has determined that the Combine is no longer capable of keeping control of Quantraine in addition to their forays into the Federated Suns. Quantraine will henceforth be a Raven holding. With what forces will you defend.”
“You Ravens have already attempted the trial for this system and FAILED! You no longer have rights to this system, it is MINE! Remove yourselves or suffer the wrath of the Dragon.”
Isle Guo glared daggers at Akira, but spoke with a calm assurance, “You yourself have signed off on incursions into Raven territory beyond the intentions of the agreement, the Alliance will not allow this to go unanswered. We are taking this system, either through honourable trial or through the use of our WarShips, the decision is yours.”
Angrily Akira Kurita spoke, “I, myself, will control the defences of the planet, with the Tenth Sword of Light as my blade. You will rue the day you crossed swords with the Dragon over this world.” He cut off the transmission and turned to the commander of the Tenth, “prepare the defences, I want units here, here, and here.” He points to the nearby map of the defences, spreading out the Tenth in very aggressive positions, but also least able to take advantage of the emplaced defences.
“Sir, it is your right to command, but might I suggest someone with a more intimate knowledge of the planet?”
“The Ravens have overstepped this time, I will put them in their place and they will know the Dragon does not deign to suffer them.”
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The crux of the defences of Quantraine were built around a series of DropShips, intended to serve as either as last stand bunkers or to evacuate the last vestiges of the defenders. Akira took his place in the Overlord modified for command over the planet’s defences as three clusters of the Ravens Alpha Galaxy landed on the plateau a short way outside the perimeter of the fortification’s defences.
The Raven forces quickly split into four groups, each of the First Phalanx and the First Battle Cluster splitting into two prongs of the attack and the entire First ProtoMech being held in reserve. Three of these ran into opposition immediately, with the result being a virtual stalemate between the Tenth and the Ravens, though the Ravens are burning through their supplies at a very quick pace. The fourth managed to push deep into the fortifications, picking apart the defences from range before they can make much effect on the clan forces, and showing the weakness of the undermanned defences.
Akira noting the overextension of the Ravens in the fourth prong and ignoring reports suggesting the unclanlike behaviour of holding back reserves collapses one of the other battalions to surround the Raven incursion, against the advice of Tai-Sho Kito. The weakness along the lines was exactly what the Ravens were waiting for and the entirety of the First ProtoMech Cluster is thrown against the lines, breaking through the meagre remains and splitting into two groups. One rolls up the flank of Combine forces, while the other moves onto the command DropShip itself.
Recognizing the threat to the DropShip Akira sent out a transmission in the open for all to hear: “Commander Kito, the failure of your defences, your failure against the Ravens, and your failure in my own defence marks three failures. The Combine does not need such a poor weapon as yourselves, you are hereby cast out of the Combine Military and declared criminal within the realm.” Akira commands his DropShip thrust into orbit joining with the remaining DCMS aerospace forces and forcing their way past picket Raven defences, fortunately the Clan’s WarShips had remained at the jump points following the Combine’s agreement to fight an honourable conflict, with the Ravens unable to interdict the Combine leader Akira Kurita is able to escape via a pirate point on a waiting JumpShip.
Upon hearing the declaration, Tai-Sho Kito offered his surrender immediately to the Ravens, who quickly take the survivors as bondsmen, seeing the potential in reinvigorating the ranks of the Ravens with seasoned veterans. Three days later, Kaoru throws those plans into disarray as he declares a trial for the freedom of him, his troops and their equipment. While respecting the attempt but already classing the unit as a captured warriors Galaxy Commander Guo pits him against three opponents at once heavily stacking the odds against the man intent on seeing his death but maintaining control over the rest of the survivors. Showing skills beyond those of the First Battle Cluster warriors pitted against him Kito manages to defeat the opponents Guo agrees to release the remains of the Tenth Sword of Light from its bonds but reminds the commander that his nation has already cut him loose.
The fate of Quantraine lies in doubt as the Combine refuses to relinquish claim to the world, this results in a near constant state of conflict for the world, as it changes hands frequently rarely being controlled by one of the nations for more than a month at a time. The area around which the Combine built up the fortifications is reduced to a wasteland as most of the battles take place in and around the area.
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At the same time as the battle of Quantraine begins, the First Avellar Cluster and the Corvus Keshik make landfall on Nexus Ri. While Khan Sukhanov is not present, the use of both the Keshik and a mostly native composed Alliance cluster makes a statement on its own. Directly targeting the Second Genyosha, they declare a trial over the most recently constructed hull of the Combine’s Yamato-class battleship. The trial is hard fought but the combination of the intensity of the Avellar Guards and the precision of the Corvus Keshik forces the Genyosha to concede. The results are immediately transmitted to New Samarkand.
A few days later a small fleet including a Potemkin and a number of JumpShips with associated DropShips arrive in New Samarkand to take the Raven’s prize. With Akira Kurita currently away from communications, the naval commander of the system attempts to deny the Raven’s claims, but Hohiro Kurita tells him to stand down, that the Combine will deal honourably with the Ravens. They turn the barely airtight and completely unarmed DCS Drogon over to the Snow Ravens without further conflict with their prize secured the Snow Ravens leave New Samarkand without further conflict.
Raven Alliance Clan Council Hall
Dante
Raven Alliance
26th January, 3111
“Bloodnamed of the Raven Alliance,” Khan Vir Sukhanov began the clan council, “Today I announce the successful end of Operation Portent.” Cheers of support occur around the council hall, but with subdued enthusiasm, losses had been greater than expected and the Combine had taken advantage of the trial system setup on Nexus Ri. “With the capture of a Yamato-class hull and the Susanoo in Quatre Belle, we make good our naval losses during this conflict. We are also taking the next step in integrating the Alliance into our forces, reallocating garrison forces to our front lines. Look to your data pads for details, but a total of seven garrison clusters are entering front line status.”
“In addition, we are working with the United Outworlders Corporation to fully upgrade their facilities to clan specifications. While this may take most of next year, the projected output will massively increase our aerospace and BattleMech production. And Clan medical technologies will begin spreading into the Alliance medical facilities at a faster rate. Other industries will follow. And the Raven will fly.” The crows of support were stronger this time though a core of more traditional bloodhouses remain silent; in their eyes they were seeing the disappearance of their Clan and the rise of the Raven Alliance much as the Ghost Bears were now indistinguishable from the Rasalhague Dominion.
Hohiro’s Private Rooms, Imperial Palace,
Imperial City, New Samarkand
Military District of Midway, Draconis Combine
30th January, 3111
“YOU DID WHAT!” Akira blasted through the doors into Hohiro’s private suite of rooms in the Imperial Palace.
Looking up, Hohiro looked non-plussed, “I did what was necessary for the safety of the realm, we -”
“By giving the Ravens a battleship, yeah, that’ll make us safer.”
Hohiro stood up, “We cannot fight a war against the Federated Suns while risking the Ravens stabbing us in the side, cousin. We have enough enemies right now.” He said he had spent the day reading reports from the Federated Suns front the other Succession state was givng as good as it got.
“No thanks to you, but I have put the Suns on their back foot, I am retaking worlds, and I will keep the Ravens at bay. I am the DRAGON!”
Hohiro stepped forward and slapped Akira across the face, hard, then spoke in a quiet voice, “Did you learn nothing from father? You were given all the tools needed to succeed, but you squander them. You ignore the issues of your subjects, and decline to send support when they request it. You took command of the Tenth Sword and denied them when your mistakes failed them. You are showing that you care nothing for the troops, and they are beginning to waver. The realm is holding by a thread, and you are a rusty blade sawing against it. Get your head in order before you tear the realm apart, or it tears you apart, like your birth father.”
“HOW DARE YOU!” Akira screamed looking at his cousin “WHO THE HELL DO YOU THINK YOU ARE! I AM THE DRAGON I DECIDE WHAT HAPPENS WITHIN THIS REALM!” He continued to scream in his cousin’s face “Who are you to lay your hands on me?”
“I am the man who will save this realm”
“You are the man who will live your life in chains” Akira seethed his voice now low “GUARDS!” He screamed immediately two troopers of the Genyosha stepped into the room “arrest Gunji-no-Kanrei Hirohito Kurita he is a traitor to the realm.” He said looking at the two guards then back at Hirohito “you should have remembered who I am cousin.” He said his eyes wild but his anger growing as the two guards did not move. “Are you also traitors? Arrest this man!” He demanded but neither moved instead they remained ready their attention on Hirohito.
“The Coordinator has taken unwell, he needs to rest, please escort him to his quarters and keep him there. Ensure his wife makes her way there alive and well.” He commanded immediately the warriors moved before the surprised Coordinator could react they grabbed his arms and began to drag him out of the room.
“YOU CANNOT DO THIS HIROHITO, I AM THE DRAGON!”
“I must, the Dragon must survive” Hirohito replied as his cousin and liege lord was dragged away. Quickly and silently supporters of Akira inside the Imperial City were eliminated by those loyal to the new Warlord of the Draconis Combine.
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Nova Cats going down a dark street i guess.
Properlying going to turn on one another unless Katrine Devalis is eliminated.
EDIT: Woah! Double posting of story! Draconis Combine has new coordinator....
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Vition2 your map is awesome seriously I love them!
Into 3111 again this update is pretty massive in this case because of James Tanaga and Vition2. DOC_Agren I hope you like what I've done with your unit Korbin's Kommandos in this opening fiction. Vition2 I hope you like what I did with your last bit on New Samarkand.
Thanks!
And love what you did with Akira, I wasn't quite ready to take a major piece off the board on my own, but it was a thought that had run around my head a little bit.
I half thought Katrine and Canin had finally buried the hatchet towards the end of 3109, but it sounds like it caused the rift to be more prominent between the two. I look forward to seeing what trouble they get into. ;D
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The Ravens grabbing a Yamato.
I am eager to see what the Ravens do with it.
Nova Cats splitting, I wonder what evil you have planned DC. }:) O0
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I wonder if there going to be a Draconis Combine Civil War. Even though Akira is bit crazyish, some people in power may want use him a figure head as they poke him direction they want him to go.
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The Ravens grabbing a Yamato.
I am eager to see what the Ravens do with it.
I actually have it statted up, but no fluff yet - but it's going to take a year or three before it gets out of the docks. The Combine takes between 3 and 4 years to produce one, this one likely has only about a year's worth of work done on it. Lots could happen before it actually joins the Raven touman (if it ever does).
Edit: While I won't yet post the ship, it's weapons very clearly derive from the armament of the Yamato-class.
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I am expecting the main difference will be the extra power of some clan weapons.
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I'd like to take this opportunity to ask for some heavy space-based battles that insure a nice destruction of forces from both sides with no clear winner... except those nice peaceful citizens on backwoods planet that watched and wondered what the fireworks was all about.
Thank you for reading my request,
Truetanker
>:D #P
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What Quatre Belle wasn't good enough for you? (haha, yeah, I know a little bit lopsided, in the end, that one)
The next major story line I do might have one or two of these, depending on what DC lets me kill. >:D
Probably not going to be for quite a while though.
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Fun and interesting updates all around the universe. :))
The expected Nova Cat/Griffon separation I feared that would never take place after an earlier Nova Cat update seems to finally be happening.
The Raven Alliance seems to finally be happening after a series of slow starts.
A likely starting punch in a Draconis Combine civil war is always fun to read.
All interesting to say the least! Need to go refill my popcorn I believe! [drool]
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Oh dang, double update and the Cats are finally going their own way. I'm not sure the other Clans will be too happy with this, but there is a precident for it and unlike the Mandrils they probably won't be too overtly hostile to them, but that depends on how Devalis conducts herself. Her Clan, if its allowed to be formed will very much be the Junior Member to the exclusive Clan Club and if she tries throwing her weight around, then it will only make the other Clans dig their heels in and oppose her.
And I have a nasty feeling that the 'ill' Ex-Coordinator will develop a nasty case of steel poisoning, either applied to his neck or to his bowls. This is why you have to choose your Supreme Military Commander very carefully, as it is often a road to Imperial ambition.
Great updates!
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Now that I'm no longer messing with Akira's timeline I'm more free to speculate. ;D
I don't think this is going to lead to a civil war, Akira was and unrepentant prick. But he is useful as a figurehead - so while a silent death is an option I don't think it likely. Most of the support he's going to have is going to be in places where he had direct control, namely the imperial city. This is due to his direct control over the affairs and the immediacy of the positions. Elsewhere more protections are possible, and completely ignoring his placements is a possibility. Now as for higher levels of support:
Dieron District - Allowed them to lose the entire Vega Prefecture, and called it their problem, not an issue for the realm. He has zero friends here.
Pesht District - Has allowed the Nova Cats to grow their foothold in actual Combine territory, him sending a 2 or 3 units to shore up defenses would likely have been enough to curb their expansion, another 1 or 2 on top of that could have seen them being pushed back, if not entirely out.
Benjamin District - Has allowed the Fed Suns to directly threaten Benjamin, as well as losing a number of worlds. Dismisses the concerns of the Benjamin Warlord.
New Samarkand District - Likely the only district to have benefited from his short rule, though even there he has shown a dismissive attitude towards the military, they've seen a massive influx of troops and gains along the Fed Suns borders while the recent Raven-Combine War ended up basically a draw (objectively it's probably slightly in Raven favor, but the Combine can declare a draw due to their own gains). The major downside here is more of them have actually seen the juvenile antics of Akira.
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I wonder what the stone Rhinos are doing and would love to see stuff about the Rim/clan. they are small, but they could like to know there fleet is coming along.
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DOC_Agren I hope you like what I've done with your unit Korbin's Kommandos in this opening fiction.
Very interesting, but I have high hopes that they can come back around. 8)
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I'm glad you all enjoyed the previous update now continuing into February and more jumping around the Inner Sphere and beyond.
cawest - we'll be heading to see the Stone Spirits in a few months - the Stone Rhinos have been dead for a while but you were close.
Sceptre (Sceptre-class Strike Cruiser)
Orkney, Taurian Concordat
9th February 3111
The ‘Battle for Orkney’ had been a short one when the Sceptre had arrived in the system they had encountered the Pandora’s Wrath Mercenary Battalion who had refused Star Captain Gerry Harper’s call to surrender. A salvo of fire from the Sceptre’s main weapons array had shattered the mercenary JumpShip and its attached DropShips consigning them to death in the cold vacuum.
The Sceptre had moved over Orkney detaching the Konstantin and the captured Leopard, Harbin, to the planet’s surface commanded by Stefan Banacek. Within hours the local militia had been completely destroyed and the planet’s leadership had agreed to turn over the supplies that the Sceptre demanded unfortunately they had little that could be used to attempt any repairs to the Sceptre herself.
Gerry Harper was in his quarters when Stefan Banacek returned to the ship. The MechWarrior entered the WarShip commander’s main room planting himself on a chair with a smug smile on his face. “Why are you so happy?” Gerry Harper asked
“Because I’ve made your day” Banacek replied producing a small digital pad which he placed on the table his casual use of contractions annoyed Harper but the man had his uses.
“Care to elaborate?” He asked picking up the pad glancing at it and then back towards Banacek.
“On that pad is data relating to the Taurian Concordat’s shipyard in the Sterope system” he replied “including entry codes to get past the sentries and access the warehouses.”
“Impressive details” he said looking at the pad “unfortunately the Sceptre is quite hard to hide.”
“Which is why we use the Harbin to get past the sentries and infiltrate the facility.” He suggested “your Elementals are well trained and could overwhelm any defence that the Taurians could throw up. They take them out and blind their sensors allowing Sceptre to close and we take what we need.”
“I am sure they will have naval defences too”
“Not enough” Banacek said smirking again as Harper continued to think as a Raven warrior “unlike the Succession States and Clans the periphery nations do not have massive naval forces you can take out what you need to and use what Sceptre needs to conduct repairs.”
“They wouldn’t suspect it” Harper suggested as Banacek rose from his chair moving around behind Harper “and we could gain exactly what we need.” He said as Banacek removed the pad from his hands and slipped down onto Harper’s lap.
“Exactly what we need” he said leaning in and kissing the Sceptre’s commander while the ship had its needs so did its crew.
Counter-offensive
Kaznejoy Prefecture, Military District of Midway
Draconis Combine
14th February 3111
Only days after the announcement of two new Dragonlords commands to be raised on Haynesville and Broaddus the First through to the Fourth Regiments launch attacks on the worlds of Damevang and McGehee. Supporting the four regiments was the FSS Sword and Sun, one of the Federated Suns gigantic Mercury-class Battleships, this support was immediately tested in the Damevang system when it encountered the Kyushu-class DCS Karpin and the Sixth Yokosuka SNLF Regiment. Neither the Kyushu or its attached LAM regiment are any match for the Sword and Sun and the vessel is quickly destroyed while nearly a battalion of the Sixth Yokosuka are forced to surrender under the guns of the Mercury’s aerospace fighters.
With their local naval support eliminated the First and Second Dragonlords land on Damevange assaulting the Twentieth Ghost Regiment while the Third and Fourth Dragonlords launch attacks on McGehee assaulting the Second Ghost Regiment. At double combined-arms strength the Dragonlords prove too strong for the two Ghost Regiments overwhelming them on both worlds liberating Damevang and McGehee from DCMS forces.
Vision Quest
Tost, Tukayyid
Independent Clan Territory
20th February 3111
With a call for all of the Khans to attend a Grand Council meeting on Tukayyid Khan Canin Rosse of the Nova Cat Clan had chosen to spend his time wisely in a Vision Quest. For the better part of a month he had travelled across the world of Tukayyid leaning more about its culture and the people who lived there but not finding the correct place to begin his quest. To begin a warrior’s Vision Quest they needed to be right in body and mind which meant that the place mattered as much as the journey.
In the last fifty years Tukayyid had seen perhaps some of the largest changes in modern history of any world. It had gone from an Inner Sphere stronghold during the Clan war, a place where one massive battle essentially ended the invasion, to a Clan stronghold and centre of the Clans’ Inner Sphere politics and some of the biggest Clan factories outside those that had been built in the Homeworlds. The city of Tost had been a target of the Nova Cats during the Battle of Tukayyid unfortunately the ComGuards had out manoeuvred the Clan in that battle as they had most of the other Clans. Now five decades later the city was nearly completely changed a growing metropolis with more than five million inhabitants all Clan.
Walking around the city Canin Rosse had felt at ease dressed in the duty uniform of a Nova Cat warrior there was little to no chance of him being threatened by any of the lower castes and any warrior would recognize his insignia and who he was, a Khan, and think better of causing an issue. He had been taking in the city of Tost for the whole day and was yet to find anything that would mark a place to begin a vision quest. He had been certain that with this cities history with his Clan that it would be the place to begin.
Turning down a darkened alley Rosse continued without thinking of what could threaten him. About halfway down the alley he noticed that the lights were either faulty or had been switched off intentional and he heard an angry snarl from behind him. Turning quickly Rosse was stunned to see a nova cat standing on all four paws its main at attention as if it were ready for a fight. “Easy there” he said to the animal backing off slightly suddenly there was another snarl behind him twisting he saw another nova cat before he could react the two animals leapt at each other beginning a ferocious duel Rosse could not believe what he was seeing these two animals belonged far from the city and yet here they were fighting over nothing. The nova cat was a territorial animal but they did not make their homes in the city instead they preferred wide open spaces where they could hunt down their prey Canin knew there were animals on Tukayyid, he’d seen to their introduction personally, but he also knew that this was not where they should be.
Moving backwards away from them he heard yet another snarl this time however he knew it could not be real as the face of a dragon seemed to grow from the stone wall. Above there was a screech of a raven as it circled above while it was almost like the ground had turned to water and a sea fox ‘swam’ in circles below. His attention was brought back to the two nova cats who continued to fight becoming weaker all the time as the other predators closed in on them. “What am I supposed to do?” He asked out aloud to no-one in particular “to allow Nova Cats to abandon my Clan does not make me a good leader. To force them to live by something they do not believe will only lead to more trouble in the future. I am stuck between dealing with this now or dooming my people’s future to one of uncertainty.” He snapped angrily as the two nova cats appeared to take him on and stopped their fighting. One stepped forwards and as it did it transformed into a winged cat like those that Katrine Devalis had described encountering in the Occupation Zone he couldn’t remember their given name but he remembered that Katrine had nicknamed them the Lynx. Now together the Nova Cat and Lynx duelled the other predators that were massing around them knocking back to raven, sea fox and dragon. Beyond these immediate threats other predators seemed to be waiting but standing side-by-side the two cats faced down each threat. “So I should embrace this change?” Canin said out aloud watching them fight “and approach them as a potential ally of the future.” He wondered he knew that he and Katrine Devalis would never be friends however he also knew that her people would always be linked to his own and that even if they were allowed to create their own Clan that the other Clans would always be threatened by the links they and the Nova Cats held. “Whatever happens we’ll always be the same people…” he whispered almost to himself dropping all sense of Clan standards as the visions disappeared and Canin saw a lower castemen standing looking at him strangely.
“Are you alright sir?”
“Aff, continue about your duties” he said taking one last look around the alley before heading back onto the main street.
Border conflict
Isle of Skye/Wolf Empire
22nd February 3111
In an effort to reclaim lost territory and test its neighbour the Isle of Skye Provincial Command deploys the Eighteenth Isle of Skye Guards and the First Tamar Cavaliers to Gacrux and Milton. With each of the regiments the Isle of Skye deploy two WarShips to provide security against Wolf naval assets.
In the Gacrux system the WarShips the LCS Fleet Admiral Lyn Hood and LCS Dundee engage the Razor Teeth, the Dire Wolf-class Heavy Cruiser, which was defending the system. While the direct fire Heavy Naval Particle Cannons of the Hood and the Naval Lasers of the Dundee are too much for the single Heavy Cruiser the vessel’s multiple capital and sub-capital missiles prove too much for the anti-missile systems on the two ships causing heavy damage to the Razor Teeth and they cripple the Dundee proving the vessels’ defences are not up to scratch for modern combat.
On the ground the First Tamar Cavaliers Regiment encounter elements of the Fifth Wolf Regulars Cluster who do not have the numbers or the firepower to counter the Skye forces and quickly the world is liberated. Unfortunately, the battle on Milton does not go as well the Isle of Skye forces encounter elite and veteran forces of the Mountain Wolf Guards and despite the Clan Mountain Wolf’s former loyalties to the Lyran they fall on the Eighteenth Isle of Skye Guards from multiple sides boxing them in and forcing them back to their DropShips.
With air superiority in Lyran hands of the three regiments involved in the attack on Milton two regiments of ground troops are able to escape the firepower laid on them from the two Wolf Clusters. From orbit the commanders of the Lyran WarShips are unwilling to burn the surface of Milton instead they escort the remains of the Eighteenth clear of the system and back into Lyran territory.
Mail Run, Silverdale
Alshian, Alshian Province
Rasalhague Dominion
24th February 3111
After more than half a year as a bondsman to the Rasalhague Dominion Morgan Ghost Bear had been trusted by Khan Michael Hawkins to run the mail through the city of Silverdale on the world of Alshian. He had been given command of a Ceres-Bikes Flashbang ZZ10000 motorcycle for the mission Morgan had no idea how a motorcycle popular in the Capellan Confederation had made its way to Alshian but he was quite happy with the machine it wasn’t a BattleMech but it was nice and nimble and capable of over one hundred and sixty kilometres per hour on Silverdale’s unrestricted motorways. Now in the heart of the city he was reduced in speed but it was still an enjoyable experience riding the bike through the traffic of Silverdale avoiding larger civilian and military vehicles he remembered how his father Archer Christifori had refused to allow him to purchase one when he was younger and how after all these years it was nice to live out a childhood fantasy.
Stopping outside the main mail office of Silverdale City he got up off of the motorcycle and removed the box from the back of the vehicle and headed into the facility. With his military grade jump suit and the white bondcord around his wrist he was able to skip to the front of the mailing queue handing over the package which went into a scanner without a word from the lowercasteman behind the desk he was handed a receipt slip and he headed outside back towards his bike.
“Impressive machine Herr Christifori” a male voice asked from behind turning Morgan saw a young man dressed in what looked like gym clothing standing nearby.
“Who are you?” Morgan asked looking around to see if there were any Ghost Bear military personnel near by.
“A friend who can get you off this planet” the man said handing over a small piece of paper on it was an address. “If you turn up there within the hour we can have you off the planet and home within the year.”
“I have accepted…” he began to say but the man was already running off. Morgan crossed the paved area and deposited the paper into a litter bin “I am a Ghost Bear” he muttered to himself getting back on the bike turning back towards Alpha Galaxy’s Command base.
Facility inseption
Saxo City, Baxter Island
New Canton, Star League Protectorate
26th February 3111
While he had been elected the new First Lord at the most recent Whitting Conference Bannister Cameron was still the leader of the Star League Protectorate and inspecting new facilities was part of the job. Standing at the front of the auditorium he looked out over the class of new cadets who would train and study at the facilities on Baxter Island. Though a civilian facility Star League Intelligence would also benefit from the facilities taking the best and offering them positions in the various divisions of the Star League Intelligence Corps. “These facilities will add to those already here on New Canton adding to the future education this world and many others within the Star League Protectorate.” He began gaining much applause “it is important that we add to the future of our Protectorate and to all nations of the Star League…” He said suddenly outside the building an unmarked van exploded as it was primarily a civilian building there was only light commercial grade reinforcements supporting the face of the building which crumpled as it was struck by the explosion causing the entire face of the building to collapse with the floors above compressing on top of the floor below.
Despite a five-day search of the building using civilian and military assets First Lord Bannister Cameron was found buried under the rubble his ribcage crushed and with multiple organs damaged he was pronounced dead at the scene the news of his death passed quickly through the Protectorate with the Protectorate’s Council taking interim control until a new leader could be elected. Although there is no evidence supporting the claim a Capellan Confederation sponsored group claims responsibility for the bombing. They claim to have targeted the facility and the imperialistic expansion of the Star League Defence Force but that the death of Bannister Cameron was an added bonus for their cause. One of the Protectorate Council’s first actions was to command that the Star League Intelligence Command and Special Armed Service Intelligence Branch work to eradicate these threats.
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Nice update!! Looking forward to see how the Sceptre will do in Taurian Space!
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The Sceptre going to Sterope.
I think there is one operational Taurian Warship there plus one crippled.
Taurians going to feel pain again.
The Nova Cats finally look to have a path forward if that vision comes true.
Nice update.
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I smell a trap or switch coming up... Not sure which, although the author may be trying both... :o
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“On that pad is data relating to the Taurian Concordat’s shipyard in the Sterope system” he replied “including entry codes to get past the sentries and access the warehouses.”
“Impressive details” he said looking at the pad “unfortunately the Sceptre is quite hard to hide.”
“Which is why we use the Harbin to get past the sentries and infiltrate the facility.” He suggested “your Elementals are well trained and could overwhelm any defence that the Taurians could throw up. They take them out and blind their sensors allowing Sceptre to close and we take what we need.”
“I am sure they will have naval defences too”
“Not enough” Banacek said smirking again as Harper continued to think as a Raven warrior “unlike the Succession States and Clans the periphery nations do not have massive naval forces you can take out what you need to and use what Sceptre needs to conduct repairs.”
Has the TC not still have space marine forces?
I'm guessing that this could be a fun match up
death of Bannister Cameron claimed by a Capellan Confederation sponsored group.
I still wonder if it was a false flag op by someone on the Protectorate Council, knowing that there was no plan for succession. Now can the Star League Intelligence Command and Special Armed Service Intelligence Branch work to eradicate these threats without going off the reservation? And if they get really lucky properly ID who was responsible.
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The Sceptre going to Sterope.
I think there is one operational Taurian Warship there plus one crippled.
Taurians going to feel pain again.
2 active Hyades-class Corvettes and 1 crippled Congress II-class Frigate - which is located in Sterope.
Has the TC not still have space marine forces?
I'm guessing that this could be a fun match up
Yep, but I doubt they have much in the way of battle armored troops, and they are up against ex-Ravens, if not the best Marines in the sphere they are pretty high up there. Given an edge in technology, equipment, training, and personnel, the TC is going to have a lot of trouble.
One thing I'm wondering is if Gerry Harper is willing to make a deal - the expertise of the Ravens on the ship could be enough to train up some of the Taurians, allowing them to actually repair the Congress II they have and increase the productivity of the Sterope shipyards. They have some options, even if things go poorly.
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I meant the Stone Spirit not Rhino's
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I meant the Stone Spirit not Rhino's
I had a feeling we’ll be visiting them soon
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An excellent update, we'll see if the vision comes true, the other Clans are not going to like it but they are going to have to lump it. Plus realpolitik speaks, whilst the creation of a new clan might lessen your clans power/influence over the others, all the other clans are also politically weakened this way, and thus things remain even.
Shame the offensive against the wolves failed, but a warship killed or crippled is worth it.
The offer to smuggle Morgan off world is an interesting one. I do have to wonder about how they 'turn' people so quickly, we know the Clan has med tech to mind scrub people, but I'd assume they wouldn't use that on a valuable bondsman and would instead try other approaches. I assume this would vary from Clan to Clan, and the Bears with their big family ethos would be against the probable Falcon/Jag approach of 'The beatings will continue until morale improves'.
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For some reason, I get the impression that Victor Focht remaining with Clans is the foundation to bigger things to come.
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Yep, but I doubt they have much in the way of battle armored troops, and they are up against ex-Ravens, if not the best Marines in the sphere they are pretty high up there. Given an edge in technology, equipment, training, and personnel, the TC is going to have a lot of trouble.
One thing I'm wondering is if Gerry Harper is willing to make a deal - the expertise of the Ravens on the ship could be enough to train up some of the Taurians, allowing them to actually repair the Congress II they have and increase the productivity of the Sterope shipyards. They have some options, even if things go poorly.
Oh I don't think the TC will win easy but I think Banacek is expecting a walk over and I'm not seeng that either..
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Into March my thanks for Marauder for taking us into the Hell's Horses OZ and onto the Capellan Confederation border
Training exercise, 47th Combat Supernova (Freeborn)
Training Ranges, Graceland
Hell’s Horses OZ, Inner Sphere
1st March 3111
The bivouac was at a wartime setting, as was only fitting for an exercise but that didn’t mean there couldn’t be some of the comforts of home. Whilst the tank crews dug slit trenches and set up for the night, the cooks were already setting up a tent to start preparing the first truly hot meal the tankers would have had for several days after living inside their tanks for the duration. Now in a rear area they could finally drain their waste tanks, stretch their legs properly and get some real food into them that wasn’t quick heat rations.
Although it was dark the outlines of the Forty-seventh’s vehicles could still be seen, a mix bag of Mithras, Zorya and Ares tanks with a trio of Hachiman’s for fire support. The Scout tanks were several kilometres away with their own support detachment and were already getting ready to bed down for the night.
The men and women of the Forty-seventh CSN were all tired and hungry, with many coming fresh from their training after Trials of Position to be selected for the Touman it was still a wake-up call. The Supernova’s Commander, a Trueborn that had accepted command of the unit rather than face being put into another Caste before the exercise had promised they would all hate him by the end of it and he wasn’t wrong. He believed very firmly in the theory that mud, blood and tears in training made for better Warriors in combat, and he wanted to see what the keen if very green Freeborns were capable of.
And so had followed three days of Status 1 Conditional training. Three days without rest, with constant attacks and movements, river crossings, navigation exercises as well as infantry tactics for dismounted crews. Here the Forty-seventh’s attached Freeborn Elemental had been more than willing to be the OpFor against the tank crews and the Medics had to set more than a few dislocated shoulders or help with concussions.
But through it all, the Forty-seventh was pulling together. The crew came from across Horse territory, some were periphery folks, others from former Lyran worlds and after winning their Trials of position and having undergone further tests and medical exams were then put into the meat grinder of a six-month long training program that was designed to weed out the weak. If half a class passed, it was a surprise. The recruits would then be sent out to Garrison worlds along the core ward frontier or interior worlds to help lessen the load on Second line forces.
Whilst they were very much tertiary forces given older equipment that was rotated out of other units, there was still pride with what they did.
“Star Commander Steven, message for you from HQ. ‘All elements are to stand down from exercise. Maintenance protocols are to be enacted upon return to barracks. Inform your forces that you have all performed adequately and should be commended.”
“How nice of him to say so...the order didn’t say when we had to move out?”
“No... err Neg Sir.”
“We’re not enforcing battle-comms now, and very good, dawn is in six hours, we’ll eat up, and get some rest. I don’t want to have us driving through town with the drivers falling asleep at the wheel.”
“Roger that Sir.”
Before the Star Captain could even salute there was a rather audible curse from the messing tent and heated voices. Inside one tired looking tanker was looking down at his mess tin, and glaring daggers at the cook. “Alright, what is going on here?” He demanded looking between them.
“Nothing Sir.” The cook said quickly, a bit too quickly
“So you are just yelling at one another for no reason?”
“I may have made a mistake...”
“May!?” The tanker interjected. “You bloody well did!”
Star Captain Steven suppressed a sigh. “Okay Warrior Jones, what is it?”
“That… person… put my desert into my meal tin.”
The Star Captain glanced down, the mess tin was full of a thick, sloppy mess, a fine mixture of beef and vegetable stew, as well as a healthy serving of rhubarb crumble. The desert mess tin was empty. An easy mistake to make in the dark.
“Oh… well enjoy your sweetmeat whilst we get you some more real food. And we are all tired, but we are going back to base and the Star Captain has authorized 48 hours rest and relaxation for all crews and personnel. And after all Warrior, it all comes out the same way…”
Pleased that one Trial of Grievance had been diffused, Star Commander Steven grabbed his own mess tins, fortunately not full of the main meal and desert and retreated to the warmth of the Indra that was the unit’s Communications vehicle.
These training exercises were of even more importance as it emerged that Clan Jade Falcon had declared a harvest trial against the Hell’s Horses with the Jade Falcons adding conditions to the battles demanding that should they be victorious then the Horses will turn over four clusters of like minded crusader warriors to them. Fighting on the planets of New Extford and Bountiful Harvest despite stiff odds put up by the Horses the skill of the battle-hardened Falcons nets them both worlds and the warriors that they desire. In order to meet the agreement, they made with the Falcons without destroying any of their units the Horses fight trials of position across their Touman with the losers being transferred into the Falcon Touman. Several of the younger trueborns demand a chance to join the aggressive clan.
Twilight Princess (Fesnyng-class DropShip)
Galatea Station, Galatea
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
5th March 3111
Colonel Burt Korbin stood on the bridge of his brand-new Fesnyng-class DropShip, the Twilight Princess, alongside his son Hermann as it approached the Galatea Station the primary mercenary hiring hub in the Inner Sphere. The Bradford family had moved heaven and earth and had the DropShip delivered to them on the way to Galatea with the Bradford family picking up the delivery bill. It had been sad to see the Hammerfall removed from the Kommando's ranks but time moved on and so did the unit. The Twilight Princess was the only known Fesnyng in private hands and it had come courtesy of the Bradford Family putting in a good word for the Kommandos with the Lyran Military Quartermasters now they approached Galatea Station on the last leg of their rearmament before taking their contract with the Lyran military.
“We could do without taking on the dregs from here.” Hermann said, he wasn’t convinced they needed recruits from the station instead he’d be happy to see the unit regain its strength naturally by recruiting from the worlds they were garrisoned on. They had the spare Mechs after Erdvynn they just needed some warriors and natural talent may be better than dispossessed.
“We need aerospace fighter pilots and planes” Burt pointed out the Fesnyng had six aerospace fighter cubicles all of which were empty at present. “We can’t afford to buy them nor do I expect to recruit them while on station.”
“Knightwatch and Pit Bull still have their aerospace fighters” Hermann pointed out mentioning their other two DropShips. Suddenly up ahead of the DropShip there was several explosions on the hull of the Galatea Station.
“Explosion in quadrant 14 on the station, two hull breaches, we have Mechs on the hull! Station CIC is warning all incoming traffic off,” The sensor operator said in the compact bridge.
“Communications send a message to the WarShip Subtlety and to the Station’s CIC inform them that we had nothing to do with the attack but that we are on station and ready to assist.” Burt Korbin commanded springing into action “Hermann, rally the troops anything with jump jets and all of the aerospace fighters get them in the air.” He commanded his son as the bridge crew of the Twilight Princess moved into action from behind the ship the unit’s Assault Triumph and Union deployed their eight aerospace fighters awaiting the command to get involved.
“Sir, the Station’s CIC reports that their internal defences are driving the raiders towards the rear of the station if we can cut them off they want to capture as many alive as possible.” The communication’s officer reported.
“Pass to the landing team, Leutenant Harkin, move us over the station and prepare to deploy BattleMechs.”
“Affirmative sir” the young man replied as the Fesnyng began to respond moving over the massive station from the underside of the DropShip two Warhammers, a Pillager, the unit’s Summoner and Stealth OmniMechs jumped onto the station’s hull. As they did an Aurora-class DropShip blasted it’s way clear of its dock and began making its way to open space.
“Contact Bravo Two inform him to stop their BattleMechs we will go after the DropShip have all aerospace fighters follow us.” Burt Korbin commanded he was sure his son would be fine without him watching over him and with Pit Bull closing in they were about to be reinforced by additional BattleMechs leaving the pirates with little choice buy to surrender.
Meanwhile in a space chase it was quickly turning into a one-sided affair as the Fesnyng out paced the Aurora and now had its heavy gauss rifles and long-range missiles locked onto the other ship. “Command their surrender” Korbin commanded leaning into the chair on the bridge while he was not a spacer it was his unit and taking temporary command of the DropShip felt quite nice. In response to his commands gauss rifle and laser fire scored hits on the Fesnyng leading to Korbin shaking his head he had no idea what they had planned to accomplish here today but this particular raid had been a bust. “Weapons disable them if you can otherwise destroy them.” He said the forward weapons array of the Twilight Princess cut into the rear armour of the Aurora ripping open the hull of the vessel. “Repeat our command for them to surrender” Korbin commanded watching the results of his weapons on the Aurora the Fesnyng’s sensors showing that the vessel’s engineering deck was entirely exposed to the vacuum.
“Signal from Aurora they have given their surrender.”
“Move us into position and deploy marines” Korbin said as the Twilight Princess turned the DropShip’s advanced weapons locked on the vessel as Battle Armoured marines jumped from the craft landing on the hull of the DropShip. Quickly the Kommando’s marines forced their way into the Aurora securing the vessel’s surrender.
The Aurora’s crew and the surviving MechWarrior were handed over to Lyran Intelligence with the Kommando’s display on the hull of Galatea Station and their performance in capturing the Aurora won many applications which would keep Korbin’s busy for weeks dealing with recruitment. As a thank you for their efforts in assisting the station the commanders the captured Osprey and enough salvage and parts to rebuild a Phoenix Hawk. During their time on Galatea Station the Kommandos are able to hire five MechWarriors three to pilot the salvaged Erdvynn BattleMechs and two pilots with their own BattleMechs a Cadaver and a Hunchback 7X reinforcing their numbers significantly.
Border Raid
Indicass, St Ives PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
14th March 3111
“All units, advance!”
On that barked order over the radio the barrage started. Concealed Mechs with LRMs began volleying salvo after salvo from their launchers whilst stealth armour equipped snipers waited for targets to pop up or be designated by the scouts.
Elements of the Twenty-second Liao Lancers, the Hustaing Lancers, and the First Battalion of House Dai Da Chi had landed on the Suns world of Indicass and had caught the Second St Ives Janissaries RCT flat footed as their DropShips landed. The Suns unit still contested the air battle, with neither sides Aerospace assets being able to contribute much to the battle on the ground.
Falling back to defences round the Spaceport General Nai Poidatz had ordered his forces to dig in whilst the Capellans probed for an avenue of attack. The Spaceport was the objective of the raid, full of fuel and ammunition from the worlds refineries and factories, seizing or destroying them would affect the logistics of units across some half a dozen worlds.
San-be-bing Yung watched the frontal assault with a cold eye on his Dola’s HUD. He could see the green icons signifying the Warriors of his House waiting whilst the Lances of the Hustaing Lancers threw themselves at the Davion defenders.
All they needed was a gap and then they would plunge into It, levering open the Davion line and shatter their formation.
Yung’s Lance however was hunting other prizes. His Dola equipped unit had managed to sneak in from the south, landed by their Dropship a few days earlier and seemingly forgotten during the fire and fury of the battles to the east near the Starport. Each Dola’s powerful Angel ECM had thus far shielded them from detection whilst also letting them pick up the signals they were hunting. Blurts of communication static, all heavily encrypted, but all pointing towards the location of their prey.
Each Dola had been painted in the camo scheme of the Second St Ives Janissaries, not that it would fool a Mechwarrior but so far it had worked in fooling civilians moving away from the battle area, no one had thought to report a unit of four Mech’s that had come out of the highlands and were now sprinting through the city.
“Sunrise, this is Blackout… shopping list is complete, sending you the bill now.”
“Sunrise acknowledged. Change ready on your signal.”
It was the first major radio contact between the infiltration lance and their HQ since they’d landed. With the Angel’s jamming in place it would have been hard for anyone who was listening in to get a fix on the signal.
But someone was listening in, and they had detected an unknown transmission from nearby and the Suns HQ Security detachment went to full alert. The CO running to his Mech from the small office block that was serving as the HQ for the Second Janissaries as they coordinated the battle.
Miles away a pair of artillery missile carrying Pillagers halted their advance as they received a target and firing order. Both assault Mech’s quickly thumped out a quartet of missiles before resuming their advance as the Dai Da Chi custom built Ti Ts’ang’s thundered past at full speed.
Yung grinned as his target came into sight, the Davion HQ building was lightly guarded, just a few squads of infantry and some emplaced weapons. And of course, their quarry’s ride, a black and blue Atlas AS8-D but Yung cursed as he saw the big machine step forwards and swing round to target his lance, its RAC already spinning up.
And then the world turned into one of smoke and fire as eight Arrow missiles slammed down around the HQ compound. Some were standard HE rounds with impact fused warheads, others showered huge gouts of burning white phosphorous and anti-personnel bomblets turning the block into a sea of explosions, smoke and fire. Yung’s Dola rocked as if in a storm, the worryingly loud sound of fragments and debris clanging off his Mech’s body very loud in the cramped cockpit despite the firestorm consuming the world around him. But, as suddenly as it started, the storm of explosions came to a stop. The building was gone, all that was left was dust choked rubble and smoke, the HQ was a ruin, little shapes of dead troops were barely visible in the dust and smoke, but the Atlas still stood. Its right arm was a mangled ruin and it was scarred and smoking from the hail of cluster munitions but it still stood. Then it fired and Yung’s good friend and fellow warrior Tseng was smashed onto his back by the brutes snub-nosed PPC and lasers.
The three standing Dola’s surged forwards towards the smoking Atlas and it stormed forwards to greet them.
With the literal decapitation of their HQ the Second Janissaries was forced to fall back. The Capellan attackers turned the withdrawal into a rout but halted once they had secured the resources they had come to claim. As the Davion forces regrouped and called for support the Capellan DropShips moved position, picking up their troops, the salvage and loot as well as any prisoners who would be handed over to Maskrovia upon return to Capellan Space. But in an act of spite, the Capellans also destroyed the starport facilities, leaving demolition charges and booby traps amongst the wreckage of the starport that would claim the lives of dozens of Davion troops and civilians during the clean-up.
The raid on Indicass was just one of three carried out, all were short, sharp and violent, with the Capellan’s choosing to hit logistics hubs, supply depots and communication facilities. On Ambergrist the Durro dam was destroyed and crippled the power across a quarter of the planet and the town of Winchester downstream was utterly destroyed. The Garrison defending Uraven managed to stop the Capellan forces from destroying their mines but could not stop them torching petroleum facilities and starting a raging forest fire that took two weeks to get fully under control. The fire devastated the planets huge crop fields which badly affected the harvest and would cause shortages on worlds that were less bountiful and more dependent on imports.
Operation KIDNEY SHOT was viewed as a success and further quick strikes were already being planned.
Storm Fall, Aurora-class DropShip
Von Stang’s World, Periphery
25th March 3111
The Aurora-class DropShip was one of the most adaptable ever launched in the Inner Sphere some even went so far as to call the ship an Omni-Dropship the Storm Fall was indictive of this and instead of the BattleMech pods the ship normally carried the vessel was full of electronics and equipment for intelligence gathering. Disguised as a trade ship the Storm Fall had been sent to Von Strang’s World which was located in the periphery between the Clan occupation zones and Chainlane Isles with the intent on setting up an Intelligence post to watch the Clans from this now unclaimed space.
Agent Rob Bowman walked through on of the DropShip’s corridors when an alarm sounded throughout the ship. Breaking into a run he headed for the command bridge he saw the ship’s commanding officer Captain Amardad El Sorbat who stood looking at the monitors Rob followed her eyes to the monitors and saw what she had seen the DropShip was entirely surrounded by BattleMechs, Armour and Infantry “oh hell”
“An understatement Agent Bowman” the dark-skinned captain said her voice was deep but quite soothing.
“I assume our point defence guns will not stop them?” She shook her head the Storm Fall had a superior number of concealed weapons than a standard Aurora but still they were currently at a standstill and with the firepower arrayed against them would cripple the ship. “Signal our surrender, Captain, we are going to need to talk our way out of this one.”
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Several hours later after a less than civil interrogation, but a less violent one than he had expected, Bowman was escorted through the corridors of one of the main military buildings on Von Strang’s World and into one of the main meeting halls. Looking around at the spartanly decorated room Bowman’s eyes were drawn to the “throne” which had been restored to its pirate-era splendored since the withdrawal of Clan forces. When he noticed that the guards had withdrawn he began to make his way around the room before one of the side doors opened and in entered a man wearing a dark grey business suit, a navy open collared shirt and short brown hair. “Good Afternoon Agent Bowman” he said extending his hand to shake Rob’s “I am Khan Richard Anderson”
“Khan?” He said carefully he’d seen that the people of Von Strang’s World held onto many of the clan trappings that were previously instilled when the world was occupied but he had no idea that they had also kept hold of the ranking.
“Aff, I am leader of this world” he said seeing Bowman’s eyes flit over the throne “it was restored as it is part of our history but I am no pirate Agent Bowman.” He explained “the Clans may have left this world but they have left it improved from when they invaded.”
“Understood”
“As a result, your crew and your intelligence team will be released from captivity at the earliest convenience.” Anderson said bringing a stunned reaction from Bowman. “We will be keeping your DropShip and its equipment as a ransom for your release” he said continuing. “We will book you on a commercial JumpShip which will take you back to the Commonwealth it should be around in about a month’s time.” Anderson said continuing “until then you and your crew are free to mingle with the population of this world and see what we are building here. I will warn you now do not cause problems for us or you will be dealt with harshly. You are free to go.” He said turning away from Bowman before stopping and turning back towards Bowman “one last thing Agent Bowman can you pass to your leaders that this world and its system are off limits to your kind. You are not welcome here Vong Strang’s World belongs to Clan Strang and we will resist occupation by any other.” He said before dismissing Bowman once more this time he didn’t stop Rob Bowman leave the room or the facility. Over the course of the next two months the Lyran crew and Intelligence operatives learned much about Von Strang’s World and they learned that Khan Anderson’s words were not a show but instead the world had adopted Clan culture completely. At an arranged time as they were promised they were escorted to a waiting DropShip and sent off planet back towards the Lyran Commonwealth.
Trial of Position, Forbidden City
Strabo, Outpost 27
Stone Spirit Space, Periphery
31st March 3111
In the centre of the Forbidden City clone on the Stone Spirit’s capital of Strabo standing over the body of his opponent the Stone Spirit Warrior glanced up and looked at the surrounding warriors. He had been born a freeborn to two Elemental parents giving him the build of one of the genetically bred warriors even though he was a MechWarrior by profession. He was well muscled and had short blonde hair in the Inner Sphere he’d be a poster starlet for military recruitment. “Eli Furey, I am Khan on the Stone Spirits” he declared looking a them demanding someone to challenge his victory over their previous leader. “We have spent too long fighting with the Rim Collection and Lyran Commonwealth, we are getting nowhere against them without more resources. We must turn our attention on the Barrens and use them to add to our numbers. We will rebuild our Touman and take the fight to those that threaten us.” He said looking down at the body of Tor McFadden the Stone Spirit’s former commander “those that came before me did not fail us, they were just fighting to turn us into something that we are not, we are Clan life goes on.” He said walking away from the arena.
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ouch to the last part, we will see how things turn out
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I just wonder what they are going to use to increase there Order of battle.
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Just gonna point out that the beef and rhubarb crumble stew is actually something happened to me :p
Also great update :)
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Interesting update. Not sure if the Stone Spirits are looking "westward" or if they are thinking about that small territory in the ass-end of clan space. If the latter, I see things going poorly for them.
Interesting with the Falcons gaining a galaxy's worth of warriors, that's going to put some serious pressure on the Lyrans and SLDF, though they may be needing some more warships here soon, the Allied Fleet is going to be a major threat until it runs out of steam or is dealt with.
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Nice update, world building...what is a Fesnyng-class DropShip? We have stats for that yet?
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Nice update, world building...what is a Fesnyng-class DropShip? We have stats for that yet?
It's here Lyran designed and made for the Fesnyng Rapid Response unit's think a modern combined arm's transport
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=57371.msg1320527#msg1320527 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=57371.msg1320527#msg1320527)
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Oh man, I forgot about this thing. It is a beast!
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Oh man, I forgot about this thing. It is a beast!
Yes it is and Korbin's Kommandos have the only one in private hands
Now for more with a huge chunk of action from the Terra system courtesy of marauder648
Border conflict
Draconis March, Federated Suns
2nd April 3111
In uncoordinated raids the Fifth and Twenty-second Benjamin Regulars attempt to liberate Hagiwawa and Umjiri from Federated Suns forces. Unfortunately even using pirate points to avoid Federated Suns naval assets the Benjamin Regulars are heavily outgunned when they reach the planet and are almost completely destroyed by AFFS Occupation Forces before they surrender.
Taking command of the Benjamin Military District’s defence from the world of Xinjan Warlord Hirohita Kurita takes the immediate action to remove Warlord Tsion Ben-Judah from all efforts to defend the District. To counter the political fallout caused by his actions Hirohita Kurita publicly calls out Warlord Ben-Judah demanding that he commits seppuku in shame for losing the best equipped Benjamin Regular units in attacks that would never have succeeded against entrenched Davion forces.
Khan’s Office, Ghost Bear Hall
Silverdale, Alshian
Alshian Province, Rasalhague Dominion
9th April 3111
Angela Bekker entered the Khan’s office at the Ghost Bear Hall “Khan Hawkins” she said approaching the younger man.
“Welcome back to the capital saKhan Bekker”
“Khan Hawkins I heard your bondsman was attacked in the city.” She said turning a chair backwards sitting down on it looking at the Khan.
“Aff, I heard”
“And you have taken measures to make sure that it does not happen again? We cannot tolerate violence in the streets.” She said tapping her fingers against the back of the chair.
“It will not happen again” the Khan confirmed glancing up from the papers on his desk.
“You arranged it” she said after a couple of moments looking at him “why?”
“Too many spies have entered the Clans by being bondsmen I wished to test Morgan’s commitment to our Clan.”
“By trying to kill him?”
“By testing him” Hawkins said “his assailants were members of the Watch who posed as members of the underground attempting to recruit Morgan into their numbers. When he resisted they put up minimal resistance he subsequently turned them over to security officials.”
“And if he had killed them?”
“It is not in his temperament” Hawkins said confident about what Morgan was and was not capable of “I think it is time to give him a chance.”
“At becoming a warrior… that is quick” Bekker noted
“He proved resistance to the attempt to ‘rescue’ him and now he has actively moved to avoid joining the underground resistance. He has proven he is dedicated to the Bear and the security of the Dominion.”
“He will still need to be watched” Bekker said not convinced that this was the best course of action. Morgan had embraced the Clan way with minimal encouragement from his bondmasters. While the Bears treated their bondsmen with more respect, and given them more opportunities to impress, than some of the other Clans Morgan’s attitude had still surprised many he had embraced many of the ideals of their Clan and appeared to believe in the greater good over his own personal gain.
Border Raids
Capellan March, Federated Suns
16th April 3111
The Capellan Confederation’s border raids against the Federated Suns continue several more worlds struck by regular and irregular forces. One attack strikes the Federated Suns stronghold on Homestead where the Fifth Syrtis Fusiliers RCT are based. The elite command easily turns away the Capellan raid but their presence on the world shows massive gaps in AFFS security and rallies the anti-Davion feelings on the world.
SLS Bremen (Otey-class Battleship)
Sol, Kuiper Belt
Star League Protectorate
20th April 3111
The SLS Guardian, an Otey-class Battleship, was on the third and final leg of her post refit trials, after several months in the dockyard’s hands the ship was stretching her legs and working in the engines once more. Originally salvaged from the ships stored at Fenwick the Sol system was the one of a few places that the ship could be tested without others watching. There were a few civilians were still on-board, ensuring the latest updates to the ships electronics were as bug and glitch free as possible, but that small group aside the Guardian was active once more.
This far out in the belt wasn’t what one would call the normal hunting ground for the WarShip, yet she needed to calibrate and check her highly powerful sensors so hunting asteroids and comets would more than suffice.
“All quiet Sir?” The WSO said as he looked up from his console as it did another simulation. It was approaching midnight the Command Deck was quiet as most of the ship slept on their gentle cruise around the system.
“I dunno… sensors?” Lieutenant Cowpens asked glancing across the bridge.
“Yes sir, all quiet on the Western Front.” Came the reply from the sensor pit. Most of the Officers on the early watch were the ones with the least experience. The Captain liked to give them a chance to do their jobs without their section heads watching over them, and in the case of the man currently sitting in the Captain’s chair, a chance to experience command of a WarShip and the work it entailed. That they were working the graveyard shift was purely coincidental.
“Sensors, give me a rundown of the last eight hours so I can fill it in the log.” Freeman said glancing down the occurrence log on his personal display, since he came on duty at 1900 he had logged eight items.
“Yes Sir, two mostly ice comets, both cold and asleep, a few cubic feet of dust per hundred klicks and….” Her voice fell off, confusion evident as an amber light began blinking on the holo-display. “Sir, I’m picking up a heat source from behind Comet 5815/C, damn that’s a lot of heat… major drive plume.” She said her voice now fully professional and alert.
Lieutenant Cowpens glanced at the older staff on the bridge, it was his call to go to action stations, he was acting Captain after all. “Red alert, bring us up to battle stations we’re taking no chances, sensors find out what the hell’s causing that drive plume and why we didn’t pick it up earlier! Weps, activate the defensive batteries, charge weapons but do not go active sensors until I call it no need to scare the Belters if we don’t need to.”
Cowpens glanced at the older NonComm, hoping he’d say something, instead the older man just nodded and hit the alert and the lighting on the bridge went from cool blue to deep red as the alert claxon started blaring.
There was a buzz on the Captain’s chair, his chair at the moment, he punched the button.
“What have we got?”
“Ma’am, we’ve detected a major heat plume bearing…” Cowpens said glancing at sensors position.
“Green 48, mark 115 Sir!”
“Green 48, mark 115, it came from behind a big inert rock, I’ve ordered weapons charged but we’re not radiating.”
“Understood, good work Lieutenant, I’m on my way.”
“Sensors, what you got?” Cowpens asked as the Captain signed off.
“Reading a major metallic mass, its coming out of the mass shadow of the asteroid in 3…2…1!”
“Get me a visual and send a challenge!”
“Challenge away! Optics calibrating.”
On the main holo-display a window opened showing a low light image in startlingly high clarity. A blackened rock nearly a kilometre long, its surface marked with small craters and layered with gullies and ravines in the ice and rock that made up its body. And then they saw it.
“What the hell!?”
SLDF Foreign Affairs Headquarters
London, England
Terra, Star League Protectorate
22nd April 3111
“So, what am I looking at here Commodore Scott?” Ambassador Kenneth Bruce-Williams was an older gentleman who had lived on Terra his whole life, working as part of the bureaucracy that helped the planet run. Elevated to the post of diplomat, he worked civilian channels, meeting with CEO’s of corporations and his opposites on worlds in the surrounding the Protectorate. He wasn’t military and he looked at the picture on the pad before him, a grey eyebrow raised. “Looks like a keg…”
“Well that’s what they were known as, you’re looking at a Cruiser-class cruiser, its old, very old, Terran Alliance in fact.”
“Indeed… they lacked imagination with naming their ship classes too.” He said glancing over at Commodore Scott he was wearing the deep blue of a naval officer, his chest proudly baring the medals he’d earned in service of the SLDF.
“She ID’d herself as the MS Glomar Explorer and the Captain was very civil with the SLS Guardian’s Captain, apologising for any ‘fright’ he may have caused. We got a good look at her and she’s all but disarmed and the Belters have done some serious work to her.”
“But?”
“But… we need to know where the hell this ship came from regardless on how many guns she has she’s still a WarShip in private hands. We need to establish where they got her and if there are possibly others out there.”
“Ahh, so I assume a trip to Metis is in order?”
“Quite Mr Ambassador, we’ve arranged a ship already all you need to provide is the time and date and we’ll get you there and back again.”
Harvest Trials
Clan Occupation Zones
23rd April 3111
In a continued effort to rebuild their Touman Clan Jade Falcon launch trials of possession against Clans Hell’s Horses, Sea Fox and Ghost Bear targeting factory production and shipments of weapons. In all of the attacks the Falcons are able to claim multiple weapons that could be used to further enhance the Clan’s Touman but the Falcons also have a secondary task and during the battles their units take more bondsmen than is usual for the Falcon clan with almost every duel turning into a claim.
With these warriors and the equipment captured the Falcons plan to raise a further two clusters further reinforcing their depleted Touman Khan Jana Pryde also commands a further three Eyrie clusters be formed over the next three years with their Warrior-Cadets placed in combat roles for the last six months of their training. The Khan states that should these warriors prove themselves during this six months then it will serve as their initial Trials of Possession but if they fail to prove themselves then they will still be able to take part in an ‘End of Training’ Trial. Many traditionalist Falcons are unhappy that the Khan is willing to offer the cadets additional chances to become warriors. However with the First Jade Eyrie Cluster essentially accepted as a front-line cluster in Omicron Galaxy and the warriors from the Second Jade Eyrie Cluster being distributed throughout the Touman the Khan’s plan to rebuild the Clan appears to be working.
In one reversal for Jade Falcon fortunes the Twenty-First Provisional Garrison Cluster of Tau Galaxy is almost completely destroyed or captured in two Trials of Possession with Clan Sea Fox on Deia. The Sea Foxes take possession of all salvage from the unit and take all survivors, including their support personnel as bondsmen.
Belter Administration Block 14
Metis Asteroid, Asteroid Belt
Terra, Star League Protectorate
31st April 3111
The Belters had turned Metis into a veritable warren over the centuries of exploration and exploitation of the asteroid and its mineral wealth. Given a spin during the earliest days of the ‘Gold Rush’ into the outer system as space travel became cheaper and more accessible the asteroid was dotted with rings above and below the surface, all connected by rail systems that criss-crossed the industrial hub of the Belt, and its official Capital, home to the Metis Organisation, the loose grouping of the ‘Big Four’, the main colonist groups that made up the majority of the Belter population.
Ambassador Kenneth Bruce-Williams looked through one of the massive monitors and smiled at the quite magnificent view, the darkness of space and the huge bulk of the asteroid and the many refineries and factories that dotted its surface, little blazes of light that marked settlements and the dance of the trams and trains that scurried over the surface of the rock. He’d been waiting for two hours, but if thirty years in business and as a diplomat had taught him anything, it was the value of patience.
His hosts had been nothing but apologetic and polite, plying him with tea from the hydroponics on the station as well as offering to host a dinner which would be impolite to turn down. He knew though that the Metis Group was trying to decide what to do. Whilst there was no law or precedent in Star League history that banned the Belters from having large ships, and indeed, they had a considerable collection of JumpShips to allow movement between the inner belt and the widely spread settlements in the Oort Cloud and Kuiper belt, they’d not had what could be called a WarShip before. And, no doubt, they would be loathed to hand it over.
Garibaldi put his cup of tea down as he heard the doors open behind him and he saw in the reflection the security guard outside, a veritable bear of a man who looked like an Elemental in terms of sheer size, but it was the smaller form moving in that finally made him turn.
“Ambassador, please forgive the delay, I hope de tea is to your liking.” The speaker was a woman, somewhere in her late 30’s and she was, in a word, stunning. Long auburn hair and to quote a soldier Bruce-Williams knew ‘legs that went on for miles’.
“Madame Lebeau the tea was stunning, I trust you are well?”
“Oui, please, come and sit, I believe we have matters to discuss non?” Her accent was that of the French Creole, she didn’t bother hiding it. “Now, let us get down to business, shall we? What has got the League’s feathers all ruffled hmm?”
She smiled warmly, her eyes full of humour. She knew why he was here, but still diplomatic protocol had to be followed.
“As you know Madame Lebeau, one of our vessels on patrol encountered the MS Gomar Explorer, and in truth, it has my military colleagues somewhat alarmed, and we would like to know how you came across such a ship, or if she was built within the Belt.”
“Ambassador, please, call me Ettine.” She smiled again, glancing at Kenneth-Williams as she typed on a keyboard.
“Of course, and please, call me Kenneth.”
“Ahh yes… here we are, it surprises me that they are so worried about one little ship. I will transfer the data to your pad so you can calm the SLDF’s fluttering heart. In summary, she was found, Russ and Anne Jordan, a small ‘mom and pop’ prospector team in the Kuiper belt made the discovery.” A small holo-display sprang to life, showing the Jordans, their small ship based on an old Mark V shuttle and the relevant information about the family and their history.
“They had picked up a large amount of metal and thought they had struck gold, instead they found the ship the TAS Leander.” The holo changed to show a somewhat grainy image, a recording of a distant object, it skipped ahead to show the distinctive outline of the Cruiser classes hull, blackened by solar radiation and with what looked like an impact in the forward upper section of the flat bow.
“She was drifting free, a chunk of what looked like a docking clamp still attached to her hull, this impact, quite a big one oui…” She said as the image moved over the vessel Bruce-Williams thought the camera must have been mounted on the Ross’ ship as they flew over the craft. “We think it knocked her out of wherever she was and provided her with the momentum to send her back into the system. It was really only chance that the Ross’s found her.”
“Can we speak with the Ross family?”
“Oui Kenneth, but they are now on holiday, with the windfall from a find of this magnitude they are now quite wealthy, they should be returning in a few months though and I can arrange for you to meet them.”
“Thank you, Mi..Ettine, and when the ship was found, what happened?”
“A lot of things… arguments over salvage contracts for one thing.” She laughed warmly and shook her head. “We brought her to a facility in the Kuiper belt to be checked out to see if we could salvage her or if she was just worth the metal on her bones. The Terrans who mothballed her did a good job though, yes they had stripped her of her weapons, and as you can see here…”
The image changed, the ship was in a docking gantry, well-lit by floodlights. “They even removed the turrets before sealing the hull, so no, we’ve not suddenly got a glut of old Terran guns for your military boys to worry about either.” Lebeau grinned slightly.
“The thought never crossed my mind Madame Lebeau…”
“Hah! You keep your face straighter than a man addicted to poker but even I saw that lie. Otherwise why would you be here Monsieur Williams?”
“Okay… you got me there, yes, I will admit that the thought of those weapons were causing some people to have kittens.”
“Well you know us Kenneth, an armed society is a polite society.”
Kenneth grinned slightly “Remind me to introduce you to the Clans one day…”
“Hah! No thank you, all work and no play, so I have heard.”
“The ship…”
“Ahh yes, forgive me.” She grinned playfully once more “…once the towing contracts were sorted and she was taken to a dock the inspection lasted six months, her KF core had been pulled but the reactors were in operating condition once repaired. Save that bang on her bow she was mostly intact and then a ‘war’ began.”
“A war? Here?”
“A war of words and politics, nothing more, but bloody in its own right. Nothing untoward though, not like you Terrans and your cut and thrust goings on. All four members of the Metis Group wanted the ship, it was agreed by all that she would be kept and could be converted into a form of mobile refinery and mining vessel as well as a mobile homestead. The economic advantages of such a conversion are significant as it would allow us to move cargo and personnel more quickly between the Cloud and the Belt, allowing for on-site exploitation of asteroids and comets.”
“Yes that’s what the Guardian report said based on their initial scan of the ship. So, she is unarmed?”
“Oui, we have a pair of lasers in the bow which are to be used for cutting rocks, plus many of the computers on-board were so old they needed replacing and we do not have the necessary systems for such weapons to be used in such a way. Oh, and some smaller weapons to target smaller asteroids and the like.”
‘And to defend it against fighters or boarding ships…’ Ambassador Williams thought as he listened to Lebeau’s report.
“But how long have you had her?”
“Three and a half years, she was on her first mission under the auspices of Metis when she was found by your ship.”
“If I may be so bold Ettine…”
“Please, be as bold as you want Kenneth...”
“Why was this not reported to us, even a short message could have saved many ruffled feathers and hammering hearts.”
“Why should we?” She snapped 'Ahh… there it was, that Belter independence' Kenneth thought.
“You have your ships do ‘training’ runs past our settlements, you have Drones patrolling round Mars and Terra, Drones we still tell ghost stories about to our children." She said anger slipping into her voice. "Is Terra perhaps worried that we have a ‘WarShip’? You ignore us, and that suits us just fine, unless you wish to take what is our of course and then you'll face resistance.”
“We want no such thing Madame Lebeau, we just wondered where the devil you found a centuries old ship and how you got her active again.” Kenneth held up his hands in a placating manner. “Trust me, I know about our defensive measures for the Sol system and I think if you told any fighter pilot they would be going against Belters in combat…we’d see a huge spike in unexplained injuries.” He grinned slightly trying to soften the blow both of them knew that if the SLDF committed its capital assets even the Gomar Explorer would not change things.
“Oh so now you seek to flatter me… are you trying to seduce me, Monsieur Williams?”
“Were I thirty years younger… oh yes… but my wife would kill me. So… the ship?”
“Ahh a pity, I am sure we would get on very well non? And regarding the Explorer our yards are very good, and our people, are the best. Plus, the chance to work on a major project like this was a major draw for the various Clans and Families as well as our major contractors. I will furnish you with the full specifications of the Explorer, and they will not be edited in any way. Whilst we rarely speak with Terra, we’re not as bad as those on Colombia, and whilst our relationship must always remain at arms-length, that does not mean we can’t be cordial neighbours.”
“I’m sure my superiors will be relieved.”
“I hope so, we’re already building another three ships using plans obtained from the initial rebuild of the Gomar Explorer.”
“Three more… how many facilities do you have?”
“Oh… a few, now Kenneth, shall we have dinner, you’ve got what you want after all.”
“And have you got what you want?”
“Where you thirty years younger… oui.” Ettine smiled flirtatiously before standing
“Now Monsieur Williams, accompany a young lady to dinner and let us talk as friends, not as politicians.”
She offered her hand and Williams took it “How could I refuse?”
“One last bit of information for you Monsieur Williams, we did a little bit of digging ourselves. Whilst our logs are not as extensive as those on Terra, they are as old. The TAS Leander was put into storage at DSNR-9, we found invoices relating to the purchase of processed metal that was sold to the Alliance that would be used on DSNR, it means ‘Deep Space Naval Reserve’. Sadly, we don’t have its location…”
“And if you did would you share it Madame LeBeau?”
She laughed “Of course not, at least at first until we needed to explain ourselves to you again. But I will not lie, we don’t know where this reserve is, its probably somewhere in the Cloud, you could spend a hundred lifetimes searching with a thousand craft and still not find it. Perhaps its for the best, imagine if we had found a greater prize than the Leander.”
“Madame, after all the commotion this caused, I am deeply glad you didn’t.”
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I so see a mission for a few hundred Voidseakers. also looks like the SLDF might have just found a way to build more smaller classes of warships
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You may notice she's got a DropShuttle bay, this was a deliberate choice on my part. I figured that the Belters would still have large numbers of DropShuttles in production/service, working as haulers between Homesteads. Plus the image of a DROST docking with her was just too much to pass on :)
And the DSNR is another idea. We know that the Hegemony put many megatonnes of WarShips into reserve and just had them floating around the Sol system, so why not have basically a small base/mooring point where they would be put into Mothballs and left inactive. The locations are logged and if you need ships, jump out with a crew of technicians and a cargo dropship full of spares. You can then fire up the reactors, and get to work on reactivating what is needed. Not a production facility by far, rather a storage facility.
As for the reserves location, who's to say. Three years is a long time, you could get a speed reading from when she was found of how fast she was drifting, and start back tracking along predicted courses. You'd not want to start sending JumpShips out into the Cloud or Belt though, not into a potentailly un-mapped area. So you'd have to slow boat it with DropShips or DropShuttles, but its a start.
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Link with fluff plus my couple of little mods to Marauder/Maingunnery's design
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=59539.0 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=59539.0)
As for the DSR I'll note now if you don't know the exact location you're not going to want to jump out there it's suicide so as marauder said it's a slowboat mission. Considering the Leander was a Terran Alliance ship it could have been drifting for a very, very long time (I wouldn't expect to hear from it anytime soon it's a nice fluff piece)
(EDIT - I do have one idea for the above but I'll see where it takes me)
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Link with fluff plus my couple of little mods to Marauder/Maingunnery's design
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=59539.0 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=59539.0)
As for the DSR I'll note now if you don't know the exact location you're not going to want to jump out there it's suicide so as marauder said it's a slowboat mission. Considering the Leander was a Terran Alliance ship it could have been drifting for a very, very long time (I wouldn't expect to hear from it anytime soon it's a nice fluff piece)
(EDIT - I do have one idea for the above but I'll see where it takes me)
sound like the perfect job for a bunch of drones to do after you refit them with beagle (BAP) or something like it. launch them on a grid like search patter, then jump a recovery ship out. the drones do the slow way and then meet up with the recovery ship for refueling and repairs. relaunch and do it all again.
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Intriguing! I want know more. >:D But it's big universe, with a lot more stories than just Terra/Sol stuff.
Deep Space Naval Reserve’ sounds like there possible six-pack of Cruisers possibly out there or a long-lost Dreadnought or Dart Class-Light Cruiser!
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Intriguing! I want know more. >:D But it's big universe, with a lot more stories than just Terra/Sol stuff.
Deep Space Naval Reserve’ sounds like there possible six-pack of Cruisers possibly out there or a long-lost Dreadnought or Dart Class-Light Cruiser!
Or. Ghu forbid, the SLS Enterprise boondoggle carrier
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Or. Ghu forbid, the SLS Enterprise boondoggle carrier
They already found her. Be intrested if they found some unque stuff. There was suppose to be a yardship type. Be intrested in seeing a Succession era experimental warship.
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Maybe they could find a Liparius class (the picture does enlarge if you click on it)
(https://i.imgur.com/jl0grzG.jpg)
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They already found her. Be intrested if they found some unque stuff. There was suppose to be a yardship type. Be intrested in seeing a Succession era experimental warship.
Not quite found the Enterprise II was built from the plans
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Not quite found the Enterprise II was built from the plans
true, maby it was never taken apart and instead was just mothballed or used for secret projects and such. would not be the first time the SLDF "lost" stuff for other projects or for continjincy plans.
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So the original floating around as debris? That's last we heard of the original canon Enterprise.
Maybe they could find a Liparius class (the picture does enlarge if you click on it)
OMG, that awsesome! I take it she a yardship?
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So the original floating around as debris? That's last we heard of the original canon Enterprise.
OMG, that awsesome! I take it she a yardship?
She's what would become a yardship yes, she's in Delranes :)
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Maybe they could find a Liparius class (the picture does enlarge if you click on it)
(https://i.imgur.com/jl0grzG.jpg)
any stats on this class
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It's here Lyran designed and made for the Fesnyng Rapid Response unit's think a modern combined arm's transport
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=57371.msg1320527#msg1320527 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=57371.msg1320527#msg1320527)
Well you say in civilian hands... we have always been loyal guardians of the Lyran people.
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any stats on this class
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=58720.msg1350601#msg1350601
There you go :)
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Well you say in civilian hands... we have always been loyal guardians of the Lyran people.
Helmdale? Lordy I've not heard them in ages. I doubt be them but be interesting if it were.
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Helmdale? Lordy I've not heard them in ages. I doubt be them but be interesting if it were.
No he’s on about Korbin’s Kommandos they are officially Mercs but they almost always take Lyran contracts - so them getting hold of a Fesnyng was a safe bet for Lyans
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* Mumbles about how Lyrans get all the toys... *
TT
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* Mumbles about how Lyrans get all the toys... *
TT
;D ;)
U mean we buy them!!!!
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* Starts thinking of making a gofundme account for Dragon Cat to make CHH as ilClan in is AU *
;D
TT
( Begins to think of more evil Whispers of Blake ideas... rubs hands. )
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* Starts thinking of making a gofundme account for Dragon Cat to make CHH as ilClan in is AU *
;D
TT
( Begins to think of more evil Whispers of Blake ideas... rubs hands. )
Really, without most of the clans dramatically increasing their size, the likelihood of an ilClan is quite unlikely. Currently the strongest clans are at a severe disadvantage against the SLDF.
The Rasalhague Dominion has roughly one cluster per 'mech regiment of the SLDF, not to mention the listed support forces. In space, the active SLDF navy has twice the military tonnage as the Dominion, throwing in the the CASPARs, this increases to triple.
The Nova Cats have nearly the same number of clusters as the Dominion, though they are generally about 10-15% smaller, giving a further edge to the SLDF on the ground. In space, they are close to parity in military tonnage, unless the CASPARs are considered, which puts the Nova Cats at a 3:2 disadvantage.
In all, any of the clans need some pretty heavy equipment increases to effectively combat the SLDF in order to take Terra. Or... something needs to happen to the SLDF (White robes?! Where?)
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Khan TT will lead the CHH to complete victory against the false Star League.
After he has some more fun with the Toasters. }:)
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Remember that lil discussion you, me and Dragon Cat had Vition re tourman sizes. Whilst you're very correct in regards to raw naval tonnage, it was you who figured out that the Dominion, if they wanted to could pump out a huge number of Clusters. What holds them back is their lack of hulls. The levi's are very good ships but there's only 3 of them. Plus the big thing with the Dominion is that I doubt there's the will. They are a Successor State now in all but name and the other Clans know this, but they and the other Clans call them Clan purely because they kinda need them.
I don't even think the Nova Cats have the desire to go for being IlClan, they seem happy where they are. The Wolves, Falcons and Horses however...But all three lack the material strength and numbers to even think about it.
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I don't even think the Nova Cats have the desire to go for being IlClan, they seem happy where they are. The Wolves, Falcons and Horses however...But all three lack the material strength and numbers to even think about it.
Desire? One warrior get's vision of a NovaCat (animal) wearing the crown of the Star League on it's crown. You know they will go for it.
Who knows, maybe the new splinter Griffins will end up trying do it and Nova Cats try stop them and ending up with IlClan chair instead.
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* Starts thinking of making a gofundme account for Dragon Cat to make CHH as ilClan in is AU *
;D
TT
( Begins to think of more evil Whispers of Blake ideas... rubs hands. )
;D ;D ;D
As for the Clan discussion remember one thing. The Star League Defence Force is one, the Clans are many...
Wrangler I like that vision 8)
Also I forgot to post the link for an updated TO&E for Korbin's Kommandos (Doc_Agren's unit)
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=50991.0 (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=50991.0)
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Caveat before splurge, the thoughts, estimates, and assumptions below are entirely my doing. While they all have a basis in Dragon Cat's canon, none of them are perfect representations and so much more could happen to change things before anything actually comes of everything. Without further ado (SPLURGE!):
To add a bit for everyone else as to what marauder is talking about. Using the touman sizes listed in Dragon Cat’s Active Units of the Inner Sphere, and the growth over 2 years being close to 100 stars per year, the estimated maximum size was around 165 clusters. I’ve now come to suspect that those were “boom” years, where a larger than normal group passed their graduation trial - if it was the norm, then based on my estimated turnover rate (which admittedly is partly pulled out of my bum, the other part is educated guess), they were producing close to 25 clusters of warriors per year (with more information I’d downgrade this to about 20 clusters per year, dropping the maximum size of the Bears to ~135 clusters). This could potentially be doubled, but I doubt it could get to much more than that without serious compromises in the quality of troops (normal graduating class: clan green, extended graduating class: inner sphere green, extra extended graduating class: inner sphere very green), not to mention the necessary equipment and additional tail needed to proper keep the massive influx of number in usable equipment. While DC is working towards building up the economies of all the powers, I don’t the Dominion is capable of this quite yet.
Regarding my choice of the Dominion and Cats, I simply used the two most powerful clans on paper as examples. Odds are pretty good that there are three or four clans which are likely to be interested in the ilClan-ship: The Wolves, Jade Falcons, Hell’s Horses and either the Coyotes or Griffins (or whatever the Nova Cat spin-off will end up being called, assuming, of course, that they do actually become a new clan), neither of which is currently in the position to truly vie for the position.
So what is needed to actually break the SLDF in it’s primary protectorate. Well taking some liberties with calculations, I estimate the overall listed strength of the SLDF as 265 clusters, with perhaps 15% of it being assigned to its further flung holdings and assisting the Combine and Lyrans, pegging the core at around 225 clusters. Overall, the SLDF has grown in size by about 10% per year for the last 3 years (which is actually a fair bit more than any individual clan, though all the clans have been more active than the SLDF, so these numbers don’t tell the whole story), and has 32 Mtons of warships with an additional 15 Mtons of CASPARs with somewhere between 10-20 Mtons of warships only waiting for crew (that’s 11 further Oteys, and a variety of comparatively obsolete warships near Fenwick - though they can still be effective), there’s potential all of these could be crewed in less than half a decade, but more reasonably it should be between 7 and 10 years. Assuming they can only mobilize 70% of their forces against a clan incursion of the Prime protectorate, this puts them at ~157 clusters, and 22.4 Mtons of Warships, with an additional ~10 Mtons of CASPARs.
So what do the clans have to compete against that, at the moment(these are equivalents, not actual listed forces):
Wolves: 50 clusters, 19.2 Mtons warships
Falcons: 25 clusters, 13.9 Mtons warships
Hell’s Horses: 42 clusters, 10.2 Mtons warships
Coyotes: 25 clusters, 6.5 Mtons warships
Totals: 142 clusters, 49.8 Mtons warships
End result, overall a significant margin on the clan side for Warships, meanwhile a similarly large margin for SLDF ground forces. The real downside is that, by my current calculations, the SLDF is growing at a faster rate than the likely opposing clans, another 5 years and they’d likely be at near parity on the warship front, while maintaining a large lead on the ground. Much more than that and things start going quickly against the clans.
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Time for another big update with contributions from myself, James Tanaga (Lyran/Buena bit) and welcoming back Blackhorse 6 (Federated Suns)
Meeting Room, Complex A1
Wolf City, Gallery
Halfway Province, Lyran Commonwealth
7th May 3111
Like many who had visited the underground city that served as the Mountain Wolf capital on Gallery Duke Robert Lunius was in awe of what he was seeing but also saw the oppetunity that the Archon had spoken of, the city was sparsely populated since the rest of the Clan abandoned the Lyran Commonwealth. Lunius was not convinced that this course of action was the best one but the weapons coming out of the Gallery had convinced the Archon that the remaining Mountain Wolves could be trusted. He was led into a meeting room and saw someone waited for him he was tall with short brown hair that was beginning to grey slightly he had a goatee that was also beginning to show signs of grey.
“I am Duke Robert Linius of Halfway representing Archon Jessica Steiner. You are not Star Colonel Daniela Wolf” Linius said realizing he’d pointed out the obvious after he had spoken.
“Neg, I am not, I am Scientist General Riko Danvers and I lead the scientists of the Mountain Wolves. Star Colonel Daniela Wolf is commanding our forces as they train on the southern continent she has authorized me to speak on behalf of the Mountain Wolves, please sit Duke Lunius.”
“I had heard that you had formed a third cluster.” Lunius admitted sitting opposite the Scientist General “which leads me to the reason I am here Archon Steiner is aware of the facilities that you have here and the excess accommodation that is available in this city and the other settlements the Mountain Wolves have.”
“It is no secret that we have a smaller Touman and population than before” he said “but we are still committed to supporting the Lyran Commonwealth in anyway we can.”
“I am aware of your commitments Scientist General and the Archon appreciates your people’s work. The weapon shipments and medical research alone has been very useful.” He said “however we think that we could help make more out of what you have here on Gallery. With the Clans continuously threatening our borders and the recent break of the Son Hou Theatre there has been a wave of refugees who wish to remain Lyran citizens but have been displaced. The Archon and I believe that Gallery with its facilities already constructed could be one place that could take many?”
“Affirmative Duke Lunius” Danvers replied after a moment’s hesitation “we could accommodate many given time to prepare the facilities, we have mothballed many that were not in use, if they are willing to work then we could possibly also bring further factories and research facilities online.”
“The Archon had the same thought” Lunius said seeing that the Scientist had quickly picked up on the Lyran thinking. “We wish for your people to thrive within the Commonwealth if you are able to accommodate these citizens and provide them with a safe environment and work the Archon has authorized me to increase shipments of raw materials and supplies to your facilities.”
“We already barely use all of them that are already provided to us, Duke Lunius, perhaps you could hold onto what you were ready to provide for now and we will request them when we are ready.” Danvers said smiling he was sure that the Duke was happy to see him appreciate what the Lyrans were doing for the Wolves but the real reason for the smile was his own.
“If you are sure? There are others within the Commonwealth in need of resources.”
“Then they should get them” Danvers said knowing that it would be music to Lunius’ ears. “The Mountain Wolves will make do with what we have until we are ready for more.” He said “I know the Lyran state will provide when it is ready and able to.” He said playing along with the man’s desires “we will be ready within the month to take in some of the refugees.”
“I am very glad to hear this” Lunius said rising from his chair as Danvers did “I will contact the Archon as soon as I am able and make her aware of the Mountain Wolves continued commitment.” He said reaching out and shaking Danvers hand. Soon after the Duke left and not long after Scientist Elda Beckett entered the room.
“You heard?” He asked she nodded she had been listening into their conversation from another room. “We will need to move some of our research quickly I do not want Lyran refugees stumbling over our advances.”
“Yes, Scientist General it will not take long to move the supplies.” She said remaining standing “with additional bodies available we could move to the second phase of testing of our drugs program.”
“Agreed but only in small amounts we have already had a greater fail rate here than the test subjects in the Homeworlds ever displayed.” Danvers warned their drugs program was advanced but some was still risky.
“These refugees have been forced from their worlds their immune systems are already weakened Scientist General should some die once they have reached their new habitat how can any blame be placed on our shoulders?” Beckett pointed out her question clearly rhetorical. “We can only do what we can.”
“Yes, I agree, but we still must be careful. Lyran Intelligence has one hundred different things to keep an eye on at present we do not need to make item one hundred-and-one on their list.”
“Of course not, Scientist General, we have already shown we can be trusted. We will continue to be an important part of House Steiner’s development.”
Ciudad del Mar, Buena
Buena Archonette, Lyran Commonwealth
Inner Sphere
10th May, 3111
Archonette Kathy Parks smiled as the graduating class of the Buena College of War celebrated, many alongside family members. In her fifty-five years past military service and now current public service as Archonette of the Buena Archonette, she had witnessed the scene many a time, yet it never got old. She watched the future of the Lyran Commonwealth in pride as her old eyes as her special guest stood beside her.
“You can go visit your son and family, you know,” Kathy informed the younger woman.
“I doubt the Archon’s allowance allows me to get lost in the crowd,” was the disgruntled rejoinder. She nodded privately to herself. Colonel Kelly Varnay was seemingly here on Buena on leave to celebrate her son’s graduation from the Buena College of War.
It was a mockery, as far as Kathy was concerned. The newly-graduated Lieutenant Richard Varnay had been relocated here to Buena, in concert with the rest of his family. She felt for him. He was far from his friends at the Coventry Military Academy. Officially, the young man was here as a visiting student. Unofficially, it was a move by Jessica to get control over the public spectacle that had engulfed her refusal to use the First Fesnyng in the past few months. Kelly shook her head, yet understood her former friend. The Archon would not risk, or be publicly preserved to be risking, her uncle’s life in the hands of a Varnay while Victor Steiner-Davion remained in the Lyran Commonweath the First Fesnyng would remain as far from him as possible. Colonel Varnay’s loyalty was not in question but the trouble the media could create by using her image and name was trouble that Jessica Steiner could not afford.
A moment passed as both woman watched the ongoing celebration. “What’s your analysis on the current border situation concerning the Archonette, Colonel?”
“If this is your attempt to distract me over my current situation, you’re failing, Archonette,” was Kelly Varnay’s gruff reply, causing the older woman to shake her head.
“I still would like to know your opinion on the matter, Colonel. I know that you are on leave but I need all my resources to keep the Archonette from imploding right now. If that means, I have to use you, I will,” was Kathy’s own reply.
The older woman smiled as she heard the other sigh. “The expected merging of Erdvynn Province into the Collection should keep the Rim Collection distracted for a long while. From the reports, I gather the Collection is rapidly building its naval forces and preparing for war against the Circinus Federation.”
Kathy nodded. “That is my own belief as well. Any suggestions on how to deal with that? The Rim Collection cannot lose that conflict over a longer period and should they take the Circinus Federation, it’ll weaken us politically.”
The Archonette noted the shadow of Kelly Varnay shrug. “Your forces don’t have the manpower to muscle in on the situation and the Estates Generals will not divert resources from the Clan borders to support you. You really want my suggestion?”
Kathy turned her head to glance at the younger officer. “What is it?”
“Make a coalition with the Rim Collection, the Southwest Covenant Worlds, and perhaps the Free Worlds League’s District of Lothario against the Circinus Federation,” Kelly Varnay succinctly replied. “We already lost the Circinus Federation. We should instead be working to minimize the loss by forcing the Rim Collection to border the Free Worlds League. At the same time, however, we need to make inroads with the Southwest Covenant Worlds and try to get them to re-join the Commonwealth or at least keep them from allying themselves with other foreign powers.”
“Interesting,” Kathy muttered allowed, weighing the pros and cons of Kelly Varnay’s suggestion in her head as her eyes caught sight of the colonel’s family approaching them, the Free Worlds League was a Star League ally the distrust from the Succession Wars was not something that should hold them back. “I would like an in-depth report on your suggestion after the weekend, Colonel,” she informed the younger woman, causing her to turn her head sharply to Kathy’s direction.
“With respect Archonette, I am on leave and not under your chain of command,” she grizzled out as her family arrived, causing Kathy to turn and face the younger officer for the first time in their conversation.
“Enjoy your weekend, Colonel. And if there is a report on my desk by Wednesday, you may find yourself promoted to be my new chief-of-staff. If not, you can stay with your rats,” she informed her before turning to face Kelly’s family. “Lieutenant, Cadet,” she greeted Richard and Elizabeth Varnay, while nodding at Kelly’s husband, Jonathan Prycehaufer. Moments later she left the small family as she began greeting other newly graduated cadets, knowing full well nearby cameras would catch her.
Medical Ward, New Bealton
Odessa, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
14th May 3111
In a sterile room in the main medical facility on Odessa Victor Steiner-Davion, the former First Prince of the Federated Suns, lay comatose where he had laid since his battle with Khan Jana Pryde only a few kilometres from where he now was. When he had been found Victor was close to bleeding out his chest penetrated by branches in two places and with several broken bones. The medics had rushed him to a medical facility but with a lung, kidney and heart damage all they could do was link him to several medical machines to keep him alive in a medically induced coma.
Beside his bed his wife Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion sat in the same chair she had for the last since his injuries waiting for him to come back to her. During time here she’d been reminded almost daily about how much she loved him and needed him, how much he had changed her life. Born a Canopian Princess she had become a respected warrior, fought the Clans found love and created her own life.
As one of the medical technicians checked the medical equipment Danai shifted in her chair enough to bump the bed. “Careful dear” a weak voice said a moment or two as Victor’s eyes flicked open.
“Victor!” She said leaning in to kiss him “Victor!” She said again kissing him again.
“Easy, I still hurt a lot” he said as she leaned back he glanced up at the medical tech “wonders of medical technology eh Doc?”
“You certainly are OvKhan” the man said nodding downwards slightly the man wore Lyran medical briefs but wore a Clan Wolf insignia. It took him several moments to think about what he had said remembering the words meant ‘honoured superior’ and that there were still Wolves in the Lyran Commonwealth.
“What happened?” He asked as the tech raised the headboard of the chair so Victor could sit up which was agony for him but better than being unable to see her. It felt strange for Victor to feel so tired but he guessed that was what happened when you were so badly hurt.
“You have been in a medically induced coma for the last four months since your fight with Jana Pryde.” Danai said quietly “you had severe injuries following your ejection.” She explained as he tried to move “stay still” she commanded “the only way for you to recover was for the doctors to put you into a coma. Archon Steiner contacted the remaining Wolves on Gallery who agreed to attend and assist.”
“And the rest is history?”
“You’ve had a few close calls OvKhan Steiner-Davion” the technician said “your new heart has caused the most problems” he explained “it took us some time to get it to to work with your body.”
“What happened with the Falcons?”
“Victor Focht joined his forces with the Lyrans and assisted in liberating Alma Alta and Cameron from the Jade Falcons.” Danai said “unfortunately the Falcons have reinforced their position by capturing several clusters from the Hell’s Horses.” She said glancing down “and you received a message from Bannister Cameron.” She said handing a remote to him “there’s a Tri-vid player in the corner I’ve seen it, I’ll come back in when you are ready.” She said rising from her chair she guided the technician out. Victor reached for the play button and pressed it.
The message began as a hologram of Bannister Cameron appeared in the corner of the room he looked much like he had when Victor had last seen him on Terra. “This message is for Victor Ian Steiner-Davion if he has past then please destroy this message as it will be of no concern to you.” He said a moment later the message flicked slightly and then Bannister continued “Victor, I hope that this message finds you well, if you are seeing this message then I am dead and I have yet to appoint a successor.” He said if this was a joke it was the worst one that Victor had ever seen “I am recording this message on the 12th November 3110.” He said pausing to smile “I know you are probably thinking that you have not long left Terra and that I mentioned none of this.” He said “Victor, the reason that I did not mention this is because it was your choice to go against your instincts and take the mission against the Falcons.” He said glancing away from the tri-vid camera.
“You have told me many times over the last couple of years that your old habits were going to get you killed I think that it is your old habits that are keeping you alive.” He said “and I need you to keep something else alive, the Star League Protectorate and the Star League Defence Force.” He said “the Protectorate needs strong leadership and I want that leadership to be yours.” He said Victor paused the message and glanced at Bannister and then the door before playing the message “I know your argument you’ve retired, you wish to enjoy life, but I also know you also still feel a sense of duty I saw that when you served as First Lord and feel you still have much to give.”
“I have sent to the Star League Protectorate’s Council that you are my nomination to replace me as leader of Liberty and of the Star League Protectorate.” He said stunning Victor “my friend do me this one last favour serve as the Protectorate’s first Exarch and make the Protectorate and the Star League endure until the next generation can enjoy its successes.” He said
The message then ended and Victor was treated with a news report that showed that Bannister Cameron had been assassinated on New Canton on the 26th February 3111. A week later Victor had been nominated and confirmed as Bannister’s replacement despite his status of being in a coma. In practice the day to day running of the Protectorate was run by the Council while Victor was a figurehead even House Liao supported it stating it was nice to see that Victor succeeded where his father failed even if the end result was the same. With Bannister officially also holding the title of the First Lord as well the member states decided that until the Council decided on a leader the Protectorate Council would also hold the First Lordship which technically meant that Victor was once again also the First Lord.
Ignoring Bannister’s offer and the pain he was in he called for two doctors one from the Lyran Commonwealth and one from the Wolves of Gallery. Both agreed that while he would live for many years to come the Commonwealth doctor was sure that he would be in pain and need further treatment for the rest of his days while the Wolf doctor was convinced that the newly grown organs that were now in his body would make him as healthy as he had been twenty years before. While he preferred the Wolf’s prognosis the great unknown bothered him. Instead of dwelling on their findings he then called for a hospital orderly and asked for transport to the Mechbay.
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Nearly three hours later Victor was sat on a wheelchair looking up at the repaired Dire Wolf OmniMech Prometheus its Lyran Guard paint scheme had been reapplied to the replacement armour which had been fitted to the OmniMech. “Couldn’t stay away from her?” The voice of Danai Centrella-Davion said as she walked up to him.
“I just wanted to see the thing that almost killed me, I thought it might help make sense of everything.” He said trying to explain his motives on being here.
“That didn’t almost kill you, a crazy Clan ***** almost killed you.” She said angrily he knew she was annoyed that he had come here before calling for her as well.
“Yes, but I was stupid enough to think I could still fight like I was thirty years younger.” Victor admitted “it was like the first time I piloted her I thought that there was nothing I couldn’t do.” He said looking from the OmniMech to Danai “I’ll never pilot her again.”
“The doctors said you will make a full recovery.”
“Yes, I know, and I’ll never pilot her again” he said being surer of the words this time “I will not put you through this again.” He said raising his arms to his side despite the pain. “I will keep that Mech I will keep up the appearance of being the warrior prince when I need to be but I won’t take her into battle that is for the past.”
“Your future battlegrounds will be more up here” she said touching his forehead Victor closed his eyes enjoying her touch “Exarch Steiner-Davion.”
“Where on earth did Bannister come up with that?”
“It was the Council not Bannister and I believe they took it from Ancient Terra’s European District during the rule of one of the first major empires.” She explained when she’d heard the title she’d immediately began reading about it. “Bannister Cameron turned his back on the title claiming that should a Cameron take on a fancy name for his role then many would see it as the first step towards reborn Hegemony.”
“The Protectorate is that in all but name already all it lacks is its own military wing separate from the Star League Defence Force and from what I’ve ready many believe that it is only time before that happens.” Victor said looking up at Prometheus again “when people have weapons of war it is only a matter of time before they want the power that goes with them. It was the same with the bow and arrow, the first firearm, main battle tank, BattleMech, WarShip it doesn’t matter the type of weapon each of them brings man closer to conflict over resource and power.”
“Which Bannister wants you to keep a lid on for a little longer” she said prodding him back to the important conversation instead of chasing the reasons man made war against other man.
“I retired” he said looking back at her “and what’s to stop the member states beginning to treat the Protectorate as a new Terran March? Linking the Federated Suns and Lyran Commonwealth this could start a new Succession War.”
“Only if you gave preferential treatment to those states and worked against the others you’ve shown in the past a fair hand while serving as First Lord. It does mean you’ll have to be firm with Burton and the Federated Suns but if you are able to handily that then it shouldn’t be a problem? The Star League is fragile it has been since the Capellans withdrew and now with the Combine lowering their support these are testing times but it is not over. And if the Star League does fall the Protectorate worlds could use a leader who knows how to win a conflict at its helm.”
“I retired” he repeated again looking back at Prometheus.
“Old habits die hard, Exarch” she said leaning over him wrapping her arm around his shoulders showing her support for his new position.
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Border Fighting
Draconis March, Federated Suns
22nd May 3111
Under the direction of Warlord Hirohito Kurita DCMS Ground and Naval forces assault the system’s of Reisling’s Planet and Galtor III. Deploying two pairs of WarShips to the systems they quickly overwhelm the Davion naval forces and push on towards the planet.
On both planets the DCMS find elite RCTs of the Davion Guards awaiting them each backed with several aerospace wings and assault DropShips meaning the WarShips were warier of remaining close enough to provide orbital bombardment instead they approached close enough to allow their ground forces to land but without risking the WarShips.
Without orbital fire support the ground battle was a stalemate with the Davion Guard RCTs skill, equipment levels and dug in positions compensating for the superior numbers held by the DCMS units.
Crucis March Duke’s Conference Room, The Fox’s Den
New Avalon, New Avalon PDZ
Crucis March, Federated Suns
17th May 3111
The display map of the St. Ives PDZ showed a planet in a sea of orange now flashing green in its loss to the Capellan Confederation. A shadow moved to a point directly adjacent to the flashing and pointed a finger at the planet and stopped the flashing.
“Indicass was invaded by three CCAF units… am I correct? THREE?!? Not one, or two… but three. And no one here or in the field noticed that any of them moved off station, travelling through light years of space and across our border… no one? Three units… not one, or two but three. Well…”
The combined senior staff officers from the Department of Military Intelligence’s MI2, 3 and 4 as well as their Capellan and Crucis March intelligence representatives stood silently along with DMI Leftenant-General Alanna Green-Davion. Even though she bristled at the situation and considered very, very briefly an attempt to defend the assembled analysts, she made no protest to what she knew was coming.
The shadow grew in front of the display until Duke Paul Ryan-Bowman appeared in front of them though the Duke of the Crucis Mark he was considerably closer to the Davions than Duchess Kym Hasek, the current ruler of New Syrtis and the Capellan March. With the Fox’s Den serving to coordinate efforts for the Federated Suns defence he was simply in a better position to give them a dressing down than Hasek was unfortunately as it was with most things they’d probably get the same from Duchess Kym Hasek when she found the time.
She had heard the stories about him from her own grandmother, who had served as the liaison officer to the Wild Geese mercenary command, back when he was their field commander. He was about the same age as the legendary Victor Steiner-Davion but if not for her position coming up the ranks of DMI, she would haven’t a clue about how dangerous this Duke was… much less had been a key part of. The man had such impossibly high standards that her posting last summer had seemed like a punishment rather than a privilege. At this moment he knew more than she did, too much raw information, too much public evidence to even attempt to smooth the situation. His very expression kept alternating between stark disbelief and controlled anger.
At times like these, the analysts around her surely considered death to be less painful option than what he might be planning for them next. Not one of them had detected anything irregular afoot, none of them could fathom how Twenty-second Liao Lancers, the Hustaing Lancers or House Dai Da Chi had landed and flattened the Second St Ives Janissaries RCT turning what had originally been a raid into an full invasion. But the old man was on to something… even they couldn’t find the edges of this puzzle; he had the pieces in his hands. Everyone knew it the depths of the seriousness of this situation as well as they did and he sensed their trepidation and confusion.
“Collectively you all represent decades of the finest and most expensive training the AFFS has to offer… AND. WE. FAILED. THIS. NATION. MISERABLY!” Taking a deep breath, Duke Paul passed around them, silently fixing his eyes on each of the assembled personnel in turn. Silence gained lease so that heartbeats were audible for almost a minute. Field Marshal Green-Davion held her breath as he passed her by without so much as a side-long glance. Her training took root and in those moments she realized two things. Firstly – he was caught off guard just as much as they were. Secondly - she was going to have to remind him of a personal appointment with Duchess Alexandra and the Marshal of the Armies, Frederick Davion, in a few minutes time the whole reason for the Duke being on New Avalon was to gain support from the Marshal of Armies for new construction efforts on Tikonov. ‘What a great day to be a loyal daughter of the Suns’, she thought, ‘I wonder if the Mercenary Liaison office would let me transfer over…’
“That’s right, WE. But I, I personally have to explain this, all of this, to our bosses – First Prince Burton and Marshal of the Armies Frederick. My job… not any one of you and I am NOT eager to explain how this was done right in front of OUR eyes. That’s right… OUR eyes and how we did not know one of our worlds had been taken by the Capellans of all people. I will take the responsibility for this fiasco but before that happens you WILL find out how this happened. By the Unfinished Book! You WILL find out the five Ws and H of this… and I want those answers YESTERDAY!”
With his magnanimous pointing towards the door, the assembled personages didn’t waste anytime in exiting the conference room, several bodily collisions and hasty stumbles ensued. At any other time, Allana would have laughed herself silly at the sight. They were all so very eager to escape and redress their job priorities, while also keeping their rank and station in life intact. However, someone got to stay and deal with the Duke, so Leftenant-General Green-Davion stood silently and waited. There were times being the liaison to a march lord as well as his de facto aide-de-camp was a bitch. When the last analyst had left the room, the Duke angrily punched the projector, then looking skyward; he uncharacteristically let out a sarcastic laugh.
“Leftenant-General?” he asked as he waived the holographic map off.
“Yes your Grace?” she responded tentatively.
“I need to plan. I need three Sword Teams ready to move and a list of available small to medium sized house and mercenary units we can use to correct this unbelievably egregious oversight before I am asked what my plan to resolve this is. But before that and more importantly… I need your help… as I am sure you realize, this caught me off guard also. I looked but somehow, someway, the Capellans slithered past me – right past my face – even though I was looking for them.” He said the Sword Team was a concept that originated more than a dozen years before and was essentially a Light LCT with two or three regiments of forces in strength more mobile than either an LCT or RCT the Sword Teams were primarily made up of armour and battle armour forces with BattleMech units serving in a support and assault role. Ryan-Bowman had been behind their original inception and had quietly syphoned forces off his Tikonov Cossacks to reform six such units while it had given him additional units to deploy it had weakened the Cossacks which would take years to rebuild to previous strengths.
Alanna blinked in surprise for she couldn’t remember Duke Paul ever admitting something like this could have been missed by him. His record, from a professional standpoint, was exemplary since he became Duke of the Crucis March. Not much ever slipped past him, he seemed to actually be very prescient in predicting what the Suns’ enemies would do… until now. For the first time she looked at him and saw something she had never seen before in him - he was afraid. And although she hated to admit it, she had reached the very same conclusion that he had – and she was afraid too. He looked her in the eyes and smiled in a fatherly way, his age becoming more apparent as motioned her towards the conference room door.
“Something is very wrong with our intelligence system… I believe it has been compromised”, he confided to her shock, “… at least I think that’s where it lies. Look at everything, look everywhere, somewhere, something… something is very wrong in the Prince’s house. Choose your assistants with care, keep this compartmentalized as much as possible, use my name if the need arises. No matter how this plays out, it’s my failure to have anticipated such an eventuality not yours.”
Walking through the door she turned to him and nodded her head.
“Of course your Grace and I do appreciate your faith… but why me? I’m MI2 trained and my record for such things as you ask is charitably acceptable… but hardly the best. Surely MI5 or 6 operatives would be better suited for this. I am sure I could find another who could do-”
“Integrity.” he said cutting her off. “I have come to depend on you to check my ways and methods. Your integrity and loyalty is beyond question, which is why I endorsed your promotion. What I need and what House Davion demands from you at this moment is your integrity. I need your help, and I need you to get to what is behind this and together root it out before it can go any farther.”
Surprised by the revelation she looked around, dropping her voice low, she inquired, “I was always under the impression that since I was chosen for this job that you had no confidence in how I ran the department…”
“Oh that, he’s like that with only those he believes are worth his attention,” came a strange whisper from behind the Field Marshal, “as far as that goes, you are up there on his very short list...”
Leftenant-General Green-Davion turned to see Duchess Alexandra Ryan-Bowman standing behind her smiling, with the Marshal of Armies on her arm, “... but punctuality was never his strong suit. Now, if I could borrow him for a bit, the Marshal of the Suns needs to discuss something with us.”
By early June Sword Units Excalibur, Attila and Laban had redeployed from Tikonov under the Duke’s orders, and with authorization from Marshal of Armies Fredrick Davion, and made their way to Indicass driving off the remaining Capellans on the world bringing the system back under Federated Suns control.
Planetary Assault, Spectre (Spectre-class Strike Cruiser)
Sterope, Taurian Concordat
Periphery
30th May 3111
Using data held over from the first Star League the Sceptre had jumped into the Sterope system neat the ninth planet’s orbit into an area which should be devoid of life. “Stations report” Star Captain Gerry Harper commanded looking around the command deck as the ship emerged from Hyperspace.
“Perimetre scan complete, no contacts” Rickie reported from the sensors station.
“Engineering, no abnormal system reports following jump, eng…”
“Correction sensor contacts rapidly approaching our position.” Rickie reported interrupting.
“Sensors clarify” Harper commanded remaining calm.
“It is a rock storm, possibly a comet at some point, impact in six mintes.”
“Engineering get the sail in now those rocks will rip it to pieces.” Harper ordered the engineer nodded but after a few moments Harper realized there was a problem. “Report Tom.”
“Sir, the mechanism is fouled we can’t retrive the sail.”
“Damned jinx” Lewis commented from communications.
“Shut it” Harper snarled at the man “Tom cut the sail loose “Amanda bring us around between the rocks and sail and those rocks” he commanded she looked at him for a second but Harper didn’t hesitate “do it now!” He ordered again this time she followed his orders bringing the Sceptre into a tight turn placing the vessel between the fragile jump sail and the incoming rocks. “All weapons on the port side open fire on those rocks as they approach. If it comes to a choice between us and the sail protect the sail.” He commanded keying the communications on his chair “all hands prepare for potential impacts!” He said.
Along the hull of the Sceptre autocannons, gauss rifles and pulse lasers cut into the incoming rocks cutting down even the smallest piece of debris heading towards them. For the larger pieces the Sceptre’s naval lasers vaporized rock after rock in a display of marksmanship that would make any WarShip crew proud of all the rocks coming towards them only two rocks hit the Sceptre causing minimum damage.
“Well done people” Harper transmitted throughout the ship before turning to his command crew “Tom, ETA on sail retrieval.”
“Couple of ours at least we need to clear the mechanisms and check the sail for any damage.”
“So we are staying here” Harper noted
“Just waiting to be found” Lewis commented
“Lewis as long as you are on this bridge keep your comments to yourself or I’ll see you in personal combat.”
“Can’t even refrain from using foul language Star Captain the pressure must be getting to you.” Lewis said mimicking Harper’s use of a contraction “we have fallen far.” He said turning back to his console. “No planetary communications or sensor scans, our weapons fire was masked by the radiation coming from ninth planet.”
“Lewis, pass to Star Commander Shu and the Konstantin that their mission is a go we will move into a support position once the sail is retrieved.” He said as the WarShip’s two DropShips detached from the hull intending on heading into the system beginning the next phase of their mission.
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An intelligence report from James Tanaga
http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=59699.new#new (http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=59699.new#new)
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Interesting stuff, really looking forward to seeing what the outcome is of the Sceptre's attack on Sterope.
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Great stuff! GOod intel
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To all the fans/contributers of this thread have a Merry Christmas (if you celebrate it) I will get an update done at some point RL has taken a good turn recently so writing is a little backseat but it will continue soon
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Merry Christmas, Dragon Cat and everyone of you great Battletech fans!
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Merry Christmas DC and all the BT supporters. O0
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To all the fans/contributers of this thread have a Merry Christmas (if you celebrate it) I will get an update done at some point RL has taken a good turn recently so writing is a little backseat but it will continue soon
DC and the rest of your merry band, we will wait for our next installment. Hope everyone had a good and safe one.
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Finally caught up, lookin good.
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So I needed a break and RL took a very good upturn but I can't give up on the story I enjoy telling
With the main forums down I'll post here for now and update when the other is active again.
Distress call Konstantin (Overlord-class DropShip)
Sterope, Taurian Concordat
Periphery
4th June 3111
Across the Sterope system the DropShip Konstantin broadcast a general distress call claiming to have suffered a catastrophic hull breach with several systems damaged and crewmen in dire need of medical attention. From Sterope’s defence force a single Tug-class DropShip and several Tigress-class Gunboats were deployed to search for an assist the Konstantin if required.
Sitting far deeper in the system Captain Gerry Harper watched as the Taurian’s mobilized their forces fanning out from Sterope heading towards the “crippled” DropShip. “Not enough” he commented watching the screens he’d wanted more of the defence DropShips to deploy but most of the Taurians had remained in their defence positions. The Sceptre couldn’t do much to change the outcome of what was to come any transmission from the WarShip would give away their position and end any chance of this mission being a success.
Nearly twelve hours later the DropShip Harbin made its move breaking out of the regular space lanes heading directly for the shipyard Gerry Harper had remained in the Sceptre’s command centre and watched intently as the holotank image updated as his people made their move. Two of the Sceptre’s aerospace fighter pilots launched soon after the Habin made its move the pilots had volunteered and their initial actions would be critical to the Habin’s success. The pair of Jengiz Aerospace Fighters pulled off away from the Harbin and rapidly shooting down a flight of four Taurian fighters which had been tasked with guarding the space lanes and keeping ships in their correct positions. With these fighters destroyed/disabled the two eighty-ton Clan OmniFighters swung around matching formation with the Harbin which was now three hours from the shipyards.
The three hours were the longest three hours of Gerry Harper’s life sitting in the Sceptre’s control he watched as the Holotank updated with sensor telemetry on the distant DropShip and aerospace fighters. The Tug and Tigress craft had also changed course turning back towards the shipyard ignoring the continued calls for help from the Konstantin who themselves had changed position and were maintaining contact via a communication relay.
The Harbin charged in on the shipyards at nearly three gravities of acceleration the craft moving up an over the shipyards as aerospace fighters, small craft and DropShips manoeuvred to engage. The two Sceptre aerospace fighters stayed with the Harbin initially before breaking off to assault a Union-class DropShip while causing heavy damage to the craft the two Jengiz aircraft were rapidly surrounded by Taurian craft and were soon disabled but their attack had done enough for the Harbin to move into position. Pushing the ship’s engines to their limit the Harbin’s crew had brought the craft over the facility remaining close enough for defence emplacements to struggle to hit them while also scanning for and finding the warehouse district. With Taurian Tigress type craft closing in on them from all sides the main cargo bay doors of the Harbin opened and fifty Battle Armour equipped Elementals, the Sceptre’s entire marine complement, dropped from the craft onto the shipyard’s hull two of the Elementals were vaporized by weapons fire from the defenders but the other forty-eight landed on the shipyard and used breaching explosives to gain access to the facility. Above the Harbin attempted to accelerate away but already the DropShip had suffered heavy damage and the sudden burst of acceleration was too much for the old DropShip inside the craft something failed sending the Harbin into an unrecoverable spin which took the ship over the facility towards a fuel storage facility the Leopard-class vessel slammed into the fuel tanks its mass and velocity enough to breach them and cause a massive explosion causing several decompressions. As safety features failed explosions rippled through the facility causing severe damage to nearby accommodation facilities resulting in hundreds of deaths with thousands more at risk.
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Burning their way inside the space station the Elementals quickly created a perimeter facing outwards their weapons raised. From both sides Taurians in environmental suits approached the armoured Clansmen damaging several suits with small arms fire and the Elementals retaliated showing why the genetically engineered soldiers were so feared. Inside the perimeter Star Commander Quinn Shu commanded her marines while consulting their sensor images. “Point four you have lead” she commanded “we will locate the warehouses and secure them for the Konstantin to move in.” She said as the lead Elementals of Point four took a step in the microgravity gunning down several Taurian marines but also taking several laser hits. Behind them the other Elementals moved forwards down the corridor.
As the Sceptre’s marines moved through the facility they found that the Taurian Space Defence Forces had prepared for this eventuality when they designed the Sterope Shipyards. While the Elementals could outgun any of the marines individually the Taurians had several “choke” points where they could use cover to even the fight and there were several areas where the Taurians could shoot through specially designed points of the wall. With these surprises set up three elementals of Point four were down already their suit’s breached and their warriors suffocated.
“Point four right step point three take lead” Shu commanded moments later the remaining two members of Point Four stepped out of the way allowing the fresh point to take the lead. “Point Three switch to explosive delivery” she commanded instead of the restrained effort the Elementals had been making as one of them stepped around the corner he fired both of the suit’s shoulder-mounted short range missile launchers into one of the Taurian’s defence points blowing up several defenders causing heavy damage to the corridor. “Konstantin, Shu, we are experiencing heavy resistance mission outcome doubtful without heavy casualties.” She reported.
“Shu, Konstantin, we’re inbound BattleMechs prepared for boarding” the DropShip replied.
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Deeper in the system Gerry Harper looked the situation and saw the prospect of his entire marine force and BattleMech unit lost in one battle. “Lankenu, bring us out of the shadow. Engineering jump us to the shipyards.” The crew looked at him “this was always an option. Battle stations, set ship wide battle stations.” He commanded as the Sceptre began to accelerate the ship’s weapons and sensors powered to full strength giving away their position.
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The Konstantin rapidly moved over the shipyard depositing two binaries of BattleMechs onto the facility. From there the BattleMechs began to rake the space around the shipyard targeting aerospace forces and small craft who were obiting. As they moved across the hull the BattleMechs shot out Taurian defence points as well.
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Blowing through a set of pressure doors Shu and the other Elementals forced themselves into the warehouse section and began scanning the munitions, armour sections, heat sinks and weapon systems. “Shu to Konstantin, we have as much as we need in this section.” She transmitted but moments later her suit was struck by several bursts of weapons fire. Shu reacted instinctively moving to the side into cover as did many other Elementals. “One-one, no breach I repeat no breach.” She said transmitted glancing out seeing the Taurians had set up two defence turrets in the warehouse and the Taurians had waited for them to enter before firing. On the other side of the warehouse two more turrets opened up on the Elementals position damaging several more suits. “Konstantin, we need some more support!” Shu called out transmitting the position of one of the turrets.
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On the hull of the shipyard Stefan Banacek received the same coordinates “Banacek to Konstantin, we can take it.” He said changing to the general frequency so Shu could hear as well. “We can take it.” He said transmitting the coordinates to four other BattleMechs who turned their weapons on a section of hull on the shipyard and opened fire targeting a section of hull off to their right battering the hull plating. “Another volley we’ll be through” Banacek transmitted.
“Understood we are holding position.” Shu replied as explosions continued behind her. As Banacek took aim again there was a massive flash of light which felt like it was all around them a wave of energy seemed to pour over Banacek’s Blood Asp and the other Mechs and the MechWarrior fought to keep control. Blinking his eyes rapidly Banacek looked at the sensor feed and saw his Mech’s systems were trying to make sense of a multi-thousand-ton object which had suddenly appeared above them.
“It’s a WarShip!” He shouted a warning as waves of rockets began launching from the vessel down on them “pull back, pull back!” He shouted as his OmniMech was struck by more than twenty rockets he fought the momentum of the Mech as it wanted to fall. Beside him a Shadow Hawk and a Nova did not fair so well losing their footing the BattleMechs began to drift away from the hull. “MOVE!” He now screamed as another wave of fire fell on the Mechs “Shu, you’re on your own, we’re totally defensive! The Taurians just pulled in a Congress II which looks like it’s seen better days and been heavily modified!” He said as his sensors began to make sense of it only because his Mech once belonged to the Snow Ravens was the Battle computer able to identify the WarShip.
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On board the Sceptre the crew worked rapidly at making sense of the situation and preparing the ship for an inter-system jump. “It’s a Congress II, Federated Suns registry, FSS Jason Hasek.”
“So the Taurians roll their final dice.” Gerry Harper replied “helm, bring us in position above them pass to Banacek that we are inbound his people need to stay down.”
“The WarShip is already seeing to that…”
“Ready to jump, sir” Amanda Lankenu said reporting that the Sceptre was in position and that its engines were primed.
“Very well, weapons batteries stand-by to fire following our emergence, helm jump the ship.” He commanded throughout the ship a siren sounded and then rapidly the vessel fired its jump-drive and launched the ship into a jump which took it across the system in a blink of the eye.
Moments after the jump had been triggered the Sceptre arrived near the shipyards above the recently arrived Jason Hasek. As the Sceptre orientated itself against the larger Congress II while the Jason Hasek was a larger ship the Sceptre was in far better condition and from the jump was in a better position with its broadside orientated at the Congress’ aft section. Naval lasers and autocannons “fell” down on the Congress’ aft section smashing armour and engine exhausts while the Congress only had a few lighter model naval autocannons to reply from.
“Were not expecting that were you?” Harper commented as some of Sceptre’s fire went wide and slammed into the shipyard below causing secondary explosions. As the Sceptre continued to fire on the Congress two massive capital missiles slammed into the vessel’s forward hull below the Congress began a lazy turn.
“Krakens” Tom from the engineering section said “they threw up a volley of rockets distracted our AMS and then hit us.” As the Congress continued to turn more Krakens fired from the ship’s forward section along with more rockets.
“How many did they fit onto that blasted ship?” Another commented
“Weps set AMS to ignore rockets concentrate on the capital missiles. All weapons on the Congress have our remaining fighters target the Taurians.” Harper commanded the Sceptre continued to pound the Congress but as it turned now they faced fresh armour on the other vessel along with further naval autocannons which opened up on the Sceptre causing heavy armour damage. Unfortunately, it was too little too late for the Taurian vessel as the Sceptre’s near constant barrage of naval lasers penetrated the vessel’s armour causing more and more internal damage enough now that entire sections of the vessel were exposed to vacuum.
“They are losing power and helm control.”
“Understood continue to fire”
“Elementals are still looking for support”
“Redirect aerospace fighters to the station have them provide support fire.” Harper commanded as the Sceptre finished off the Congress II the aerospace fighters dived into the station blowing open a section to space. “Have Konstantin and our small craft redirect to the station collect our BattleMech force and begin to load supplies.”
Below the Sceptre the Congress began to tumble out of control as the Sceptre’s fire severed links between the ship’s command and control and main engines. The remaining small craft and aerospace fighters continued to attack the Sceptre but their attacks were now far more diminished.
“CAPITAL MISSILES!” Rickie shouted as nearly a dozen missiles appeared from another angle.
“Engines to full, try to throw them off, anti-missile fire against all capital missiles.” Harper commanded bringing the vessel up tp thrust moving it away from its previous position attempting to throw off the incoming missiles if any of them were nuclear then they’d be in trouble.
As the Sceptre suddenly began to accelerate the first three missiles went wide slamming into the shipyard none of them were nuclear armed but one must have hit something combustible as there were several secondary explosions. “Have our marines be ready to evacuate!” He called out as he saw the Sceptre’s anti-missile systems swat six more of the capital missiles while an aerospace fighter intercepted another. “Sensors, find the ships that launched those missiles!” He demanded hopping they’d find them before they fired again.
“Three Mule-class vessels which appear to have been modified with capital weapons.”
“Helm take us to them now!” He said as the sensors detected several more missile launches.
“No” Harper whispered before regaining his composure “helm, random manoeuvres change our speed and all counter-measures fire on missiles.” He said the Sceptre’s movements became completely random causing trouble for all of the crew and systems several of the capital missiles went wide again. “They should be getting closer than that” he said as three missiles struck the WarShip fortunately all were conventional warheads and only caused armour damage. As Harper watches the Sceptre’s gunners destroy the DropShips two aerospace fighters destroyed the remaining two capital missiles causing a large nuclear explosion which wiped out the two craft. “There is no way they only had one, scanners on the wreckage, I want to know if any of their warheads survived.”
After several hours of work thousands of tons of supplies, food, spare parts, fuel and ammunition were loaded from the shipyards onto the Sceptre. While their marines kept the Taurians at bay long enough to for them all to evacuate onto the WarShip. From the Mules the Sceptre’s crew recovered four nuclear warheads while from the Congress they salvaged as much ammunition from the ship as they could.
“What now?” Stefan Banacek asked returning to the WarShip he now stood in the vessel’s command centre having lost four of his BattleMechs and their warriors in the fight. Overall their losses had been lighter than they expected over the Harbin with four aerospace fighters lost, two small craft crippled and sixteen Elemental Battle Armour suits damaged with six lost.
“You do not leave an enemy stronghold at your back.” Harper said and with that the Sceptre’s broadside battery opened fire with naval lasers battering the shipyard below. Already damaged the shipyards began crumpling under the assault. Inside two of the construction bays two partially completed Hyades-class Corvettes exploded within the facility causing even more damage. “How let’s get the hell out of here.” Harper said watching the crippled facility begin to fall into Sterope’s atmosphere below there would be little to stop it now, behind the shipyards the remains of the Jason Hasek would also probably end up inside in the planet’s atmosphere.
Within days of the announcement of the attack and the shipyards destruction the Taurian Government declare all Clan forces as pirate forces and order a nationwide hunt for the Sceptre. Rescue ships head to the world of Sterope but the world is now little more than a dying one.
Terrorist Attacks
Liao, Acamar PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
6th June 3111
Across the world of Liao there are eight terrorist strikes reaching from cyber attacks, to vehicle bombs and gun attacks. The attacks cause mass casualties in several locations with riots following in several locations across the world. The AFFS and MIIO move across the world to quell the disturbances that follow but the world is still a troubled one.
Thirty-Eighth Star League Games
Solaris VII, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
14th June 3111
The Thirty-Eighth Star League Games begins on Solaris VII with the usual fan fair associated with the games that immediately predates the regular Solaris season. With many state sponsored fighters involved in the battle the regular Solaris fighters generally avoided the battle but Dichen LeFranc chose to become involved. Originally born in the Federated Suns and piloting a common Lyran Heavy BattleMech, the Falconer, LeFranc out manoeuvres his opponents and claims victory in the games leading to much speculation that he will do well in the coming season.
World War
Port Arthur, Twin Sons
District of Lenovo, Free Worlds League
19th June 3111
Looking at the screens Lt Colonel Petra Furey watched as the reports came in as the Northern States of Cameron Marik and the Allied States of John Marik pushed into the Badlands engaging each other. “They are beginning a conflict that will engulf this world, Colonel” she said glancing at her immediate superior Colonel Timon Hanzo.
“Because they are afraid” Hanzo said looking at Petra “of what we are becoming.” He said “deploy our garrison, have them hold at the outer marker and target anyone who comes near us.”
“We cannot hold against all of them.”
“Neg” Hanzo said agreeing with her while she was young she learned quickly and had a near fanatical support from their men. He knew her bloodline and would not cross her but he would teach her all he knew “we will turn them against each other if this conflict continues for any length of time.” He said “firstly we will protect this enclave and those we have sworn to protect then when the time is right we will make sure that they target the right places.”
“With the Streaking Mist?”
“Only if it comes to it, orbital bombardment will not be our first strategy” he said “we will not repeat Turtle Bay. Instead we will allow their armies to destroy each other and then bring this world under a single governing body.” He said Furey nodded her agreement with Hanzo.
Above Davetal III
Nova Cat territory
Taurian Concordat
23rd June 3111
Above the world of Davetal III aerospace fighters and DropShips fought and died as the Taurian Concordat launched a full offensive on the Nova Cat held territory deep within their nation. With the attack on Sterope the Taurian government considered all Clansmen to be enemies of the state and were lashing out at their nearest opponents. As the fighters fought specialist Taurian marines assaulted and boarded the Nova Cat Carrack-class Light in the Abyss. Fighting against the mostly merchant crew on board the vessel the Taurians seize control of the vessel and then pilot the craft out of the system.
Although there was no ground battle between the Taurians and Nova Cats the Taurian attack without an official Trial or Batchall essentially is a declaration of war between the two factions.
Clan Territory
Glory, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
25th June 3111
Walking across the burned grass Khan Alex Lassenem approached the harbour front along with several other members of the Blood Spirit and Goliath Scorpion Clans. At the waterfront Goliath Scorpion Khan Ingo Yeh stood watching as Clan Elementals escorted the Society crews of the three docked Whisperer-class Tactical Submarines from their ships. “A great day” Alex said looking at the other Khan “Glory is ours today because of the joint efforts of our Clans.”
“Aff, Khan Lassenem I agree, interesting toys the Society built.” He said indicating to the three submarines and the smaller escort craft. For the last three weeks the Blood Spirits and Goliath Scorpions had hunted for them while they attacked Clan held positions but eventually all it took was for the Clans to close down on their remaining ground based contacts and wait them out until they ran out of food.
“Aff, but with their surrender the Society’s final hold is broken.”
“Until they return and fight us off or bombard us from space.”
“We have control over the SDS systems with the capture of the Caraxes it will give them further pause before attacking.” He suggested Ingo Yeh nodded his agreement.
“Unfortunately, the Caraxes places another question…” he said he saw Alex begin to speak but he raised his hand slowly silencing him. “Khan Lessenem the vessel is undoubtably a Blood Spirit asset, I will not argue this, my people had no hand in capturing it nor do we have the resources to crew it.” He said “but you have to ask yourself how does a Mississippi-class vessel come to be in Society hands? We know it was built here in the homeworlds but it was designed in the Inner Sphere where did they learn how to build her?”
“You are suggesting that the Inner Sphere Clans still have members of the Society within their ranks?”
“Aff, we may weaken the Society here but if they continue to thrive in the Inner Sphere this conflict could be a very long one.”
“We are here for the duration we will stop them completely.” Alex Lassenem said confidently Glory would be the first of many such victories.
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The Sceptre is really making itself a very wanted pirate.
I wonder if the NC will just take over the Taurians, just to stop the attacks. Sorry, clans, forget I said that. :D O0
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The Sceptre gone and done everyone wrong. That will spectacular end of a pirate career! Fantastic Update, Dragon Cat!
I hope things have gotten better in RL.
Yay longest surviving and most reliable source of Battletech stories!!
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Eventually, the Sceptre will attrit away into non-existence as warriors and machines will be hard to replace. Once the Warship itself starts taking damage, her life expectancy will decrease drastically. All that she can really hope for is a glorious end
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So good to see this riding again and yeah the Spectre and her commander gone done goofed. The Taurians are going to hunt them like mad for this assault, if they are not too busy punching the Nova Cats and being punched by them in return. Three warships (two under construction and one in service) lost along with a major shipyard, thats a huge strategic loss for the Taurians.
I wonder if the free Clans in the Homeworlds will try get a message to those in the Inner Sphere somehow to go "So...you know that Society problem..you've got one too. Might wanna look into that."
Would the IS Clans even listen or would it be a case of REEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!
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Taurians now got a hardon for clanners and well, The Spectre from what I can tell didn't say who they really were. The Nova Cats well they are getting caught in the bloodfeud between the TC and the Clanner pirates who caused this issue.
And given the damage caused by the Spectre, when data gets out and it will, everyone one will be looking for them... because they caused a mini Endor event with the shipyard and ships falling to the surface. http://www.iflscience.com/space/death-star-iis-destruction-may-have-doomed-ewoks-say-scientists/ (http://www.iflscience.com/space/death-star-iis-destruction-may-have-doomed-ewoks-say-scientists/) not that the death of Ewoks is bad
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Would the IS Clans even listen or would it be a case of SC-REEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!
Fixed that falcon theme for ya!
TT
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Thanks for all the support - another delayed update but here it is
Border conflict
Hagiwawa, Proserpina PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
2nd July 3111
With Federated Suns naval units redeployed the DCMS launch a full assault on the worlds of Hagiwawa and Umijiri striking both worlds with several Ghost Regiments. Each had been raised as a combined arms unit within the unit are several squads of Oni Battle Armour suits which make their debut for the DCMS. The new medium sized battle suit proves itself superior to the AFFS suits it is facing and significantly helps in securing the two systems back for House Kurita.
Planetary assault
Davetal II, Star League Protectorate
Taurian Concordat
9th July 3111
The world of Davetal II which is protected by the Star League Defence Force gets caught in the crossfire between the Nova Cats and Taurian Concordat as the Nova Cats retaliate against the world making up for Taurian raids on Nova Cat forces by striking at the SLDF. Committing all four clusters of Tau Galaxy along with significant naval assets.
With the Nova Cats able to secure air superiority over the planet quickly their ground forces are able to strike the Nineteenth Striker Regimental Brigade from multiple directions never letting the Eridani Light Horse warriors rest while being unable to fully concentrate their forces through fear that the Nova Cats could resort to naval support. After nearly a week of heavy fighting a Land-Air Mech Regiment taken from the four Nineteenth Striker Regiments launches a direct assault against the Nova Cats Enchanter, a Tetrach-class Battle-cruiser crippling the vessel. This attack destroys the LAM forces but also buys the Nineteenth time to escape the planet. With the SLDF forces in retreat the Nova Cats allow them to leave instead securing full control over Davetal II and with it the rest of the system ending the lengthy truce which had split the system.
Welcome Parade, Unity Street
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
19th July 3111
Despite losses in the Davetal system the world of Terra was in celebration as Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion arrived on Terra to assume his new position in leading the Star League Protectorate. As a welcome the Royal Black Watch Division, the First Terran Regimental Guard Brigade and several of the Terra based trainees through the streets of Unity City, the capital of the Star League Protectorate, with all the pomp and ceremony that Victor had come to expect from the Great Houses.
From the parade Victor entered the main Star League Protectorate Administration building walking through what was once Bannister Cameron’s working office which was a room which was filled with traditional woods and comfortable seating and into a room that was completely different. Instead of a traditional office with open windows overlooking Unity City’s skyline the room was dark and windowless with several floor positions and roof mounted projectors. He stepped into the middle of the room and waited silently. As the appointed time arrived the lights dimmed further and one of the floor projectors at Victor’s four o’clock position activated and the image of his son First Prince Burton Davion appeared as if he was in the same room Victor knew that in reality that Burton was dozens of light years away from him and still in the Federated Suns but the wonder of modern technology allowed him to appear in the same room.
“Exarch” Burton greeted him formally “it is good to see you are well.” He said not long before Victor had been in a coma so just seeing his father was a joy to Burton, something that Victor too appreciated. “I did not expect you to accept the position.”
“I helped form this League, I plan to ensure it succeeds beyond my life.” He explained to his son as Archon Jessica Steiner appeared at the Lyran almost directly opposite Burton’s position.
“Gentlemen” she said greeting them warmly smiling before she could speak further the podium between them activated and the Draconis Combine’s leader Warlord Hirohito Kurita appeared.
“I am sorry to interrupt this family gathering” the Warlord said dispensing with any pretence of formality or respect. Considering the current sate of the Draconis Combine-Federated Suns border Victor was not surprised.
“Not at all, all members of this council are welcome.”
“I do not understand the need for it…” Hirohito began only to be interrupted by the arrival of images of both Magetix Ilsa Centrella and Protector Erik Martens-Calderon the leaders of both periphery member states and then finally Captain General Joseph Marik.
“My apologies for my lateness” Joseph Marik said my son Isaiah Marik was born this morning.” He said informing them of his newest arrival.
“That’s your sixth?” Burton commented as he tried to remember how many children the Captain-General had.
“Seven” Victor corrected his son “congratulations Captain-General”
“Thank you, Exarch, I am glad to see you are looking well and were willing to step into fill the gap left by Bannister.”
“Not my plan Captain-General but I will what I must to ensure this League stays together” Victor said hearing the projectors whine slightly as the room drew more power ignoring it he continued “to this end we must elect another First Lord. Bannister Cameron not only left a void in the Protectorate but also in this Council.”
“Perhaps the question should not be to elect a new First Lord but to have worlds turned back to their respective states…” Hirohito suggested
“And end this League?” Burton challenged interrupting him “you do know that would mean an end to your nation. Between the Clans and my Federated Suns…”
“You barely acknowledge this League exists” Hirohito snapped “your attacks continue on my nation…”
“And yours on mine!”
“This League must continue” Joseph Marik said passionately “I believe in this League and I believe in this council’s ability to mend the wounds that we have created.” He said looking between the two leaders and then back at Victor “Exarch Steiner-Davion I do not believe we need another council meeting to progress with this League.” He said pausing to look among the national leaders “Lord Bannister Cameron was voted to be First Lord of this Council we have already agreed privately that the Star League Protectorate would continue to carry the positon once another leader was selected.” He said “only certain members of this Council have forced this vote.” He said looking between Hirohito, Erik Martens-Calderon and Ilsa Centrella. “Instead of hiding behind their desires for power they should support our decisions and continue to support SLDF operations which will improve our defence and Projects that will improve peoples lives.” He said bringing down the other lords.
“I support the Exarch’s claim” Jessica Steiner said finding her voice
“As do I” Burton Davion said
“The Steiner-Davion Alliance continues!” Hirohito Kurita almost screamed angrily “this is the Federated Commonwealth in everything but the name the Dragon will not allow this to stand.”
“This is nothing like the Federated Commonwealth if it were the Combine would be occupied!” Victor snapped back “Warlord, I for one will be happy to help broker a peace between your nation and the Federated Suns.” He said seeing Burton’s slight shock “but I can only do so with the support of the Council and work from all sides.” He said looking at everyone and down at a single empty podium “as First Lord I will make this Council whole again and bring the Capellan Confederation back into the fold and will reprioritize the SLDF to cancel the continued gains by the Clans but I cannot do this alone I need the support of this council.”
“I support the Exarch” Joseph Marik said before another could speak
“You have my support father.”
“I agree to support Victor as First Lord” Jessica Steiner agreed
“The Magistracy will watch the developments but we currently support Exarch Davion.”
“The Concordat will not stand in the First Lord’s path however we request immediate assistance with Clan Nova Cat who threaten our borders.”
“After they started a war…” Burton added
“Thank you, First Prince Davion” Victor said glancing at the Taurian leader “the SLDF is assessing what is needed for that conflict Protector.”
“Then you have my support” he said leaving Hirohito Kurita to vote
“Your actions will determine my nation’s support favourism towards the Federated Suns or Lyran Commonwealth may damage my ability to continue to support.”
“I understand” Victor said the Warlord’s name could easily counter any loss of support there was in the Combine population but he kept quiet.
“Then you have my support and the support of the Draconis Combine, First Lord.” He said almost immediately cutting the link quickly the other national leaders cut their links leaving only Burton, Joseph and Victor.
“Sire, while I did not want to speak at the entire council has your position changed regarding my nation’s stance?” Burton asked mindful of his words in front of Joseph.
“No, you are a strong leader son, I know you will make the right choices for our people.”
“Thank you, we will speak soon I am sure pass to mother my love.” He said leaving the conference.
“Children” Joseph said getting Victor’s attention
“Yes, they are our future Captain-General.”
“I completely agree Exarch, I wish to extend an invitation to you and your wife to Marik at your earliest convenience. We would like to increase our links to the Protectorate and help in making it stronger.”
“Thank you Captain-General we will do what we can.” Victor said “again my congratulations on your recent arrival.”
“Thank you, First Lord, good day.” He said cutting the link leaving Victor alone.
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Family, huh?
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Very good update as always, seems 'ol Victor's still trying to help fight off the Clans.
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Victor want to kick the Clan... somethings never change
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Landing Proceedure
Twin Suns, District of Lesnovo
Free Worlds League
11th August 3111
While the Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser Streaking Mist moved past the planet several DropShips descended through the atmosphere heading towards the war-ravaged planet. On board rode members of the First Rim Sentinenls and the the Liger Warriors Special Operations unit both of the District of Lesnovo military.
Below them the North and South continued to battle over the Badlands while units of Badlands itself continued to fight for their own people and for the people of Twin Sons. The Lesnovo Government had deployed their ground forces following word of a Clan uprising on the planet with the Liger Warriors themselves the descendants of former Clansmen they were deemed as the best people within the District to assess and if necessary deal with the forces on Twin Sons. Landing six kilometres south of Port Arthur the District of Lesnovo forces call for a truce in the fighting.
Mercenary Raid
Oberon, Independent World
Barrens, Periphery
19th August 3111
The world of Oberon had been a pirate world before it had been conquered during the Clan Invasion. While a Clan world it had been passed about between several of the Clans before finally being released by the Hell’s Horses to become a pirate world once more. As the planet had come full circle many believed that the population would fall into their old ways and saw the need to target Oberon and keep the locals in check which was why the Korbin’s Kommandos mercenary command had been deployed here by the Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces.
Unfortunately for the Kommandos they were quickly finding that not only was Oberon now an organized world that it also had been able to obtain a significant amount of Clan technology. Leading his troops Lt Colonel Hermann Korbin was after eight days of cat and mouse fighting the defenders ready to withdraw from the world. Standing in the command tent he looked around the troops he had left he’d lost several BattleMechs and vehicles in the fighting but his people had successfully salvaged enough weapons and equipment to outfit several of their Mechs with upgraded weapons and captured a near pristine Blood Reaper Heavy BattleMech which Hermann was currently using as his own BattleMech had lost a leg during their initial battles with the Oberon defenders.
“Ladies and Gentlemen it seems the LIC has once again done us well” he said his voice full of sarcasm and not a little bit of anger. “Unlike what they believed Oberon is more than ready for anyone who decides to visit it and it appears they have been building links with their neighbours.”
“So what now boss?” Ryan Yeader one of his MechWarriors asked
“The Colonel and our DropShips come in and get our ass out the fire” he said gaining much chuckles from around the table. We need to fast march the entire unit to these plains in the north. We need to keep the Oberon locals off balance while the heavies and assaults move to the plans.” He said “Carleson, I need something special from you guys.” He said drawing his hands across the table “your people are going to have to go overnight to raid this outpost we saw from orbit. This will make the defenders think we’re going after them but in fact we’re going to be on the other side of the plains ready to evacuate.”
“We won’t last long against an entrenched positon”
“I don’t need you to. I need you to hit them, fade, hit them again and then fall back to join us.”
“Then we should come over from here for the first hit” he said drawing his hand over the map to the opposite side of the base “then we strike the side on our retreat. They’ll think we’re softening them up and hopefully will keep their attention that way.”
“How about we help them out a little?” Karen Jendo suggested she was above with the DropShips “Aerospace has been a little marginalized in this Op but since the DropShips will be coming into land we bomb the outpost in conjunction with the Mech Attacks cause a bit more chaos.”
“And if local aerospace assets scramble to intercept? We could lose everything.”
“We won’t use all our fuel in a couple of bombing runs and Twilight Princess has enough firepower to hold anything short of an assault DropShip.” She said naming the unit’s Fesnyng DropShip Hermann thought about it for a moment then nodded.
“Do it bomb them into oblivion and cover the light Mechs.” He commanded putting the fighters at risk might be costlier but they needed to get off the planet.
Hours later the mercenaries moved against the forces on Oberon with the light BattleMechs and aerospace fighters launching attacks on the Firebase drawing defenders attentions from across the planet. During the fighting two BattleMechs and their pilots along with four aerospace fighters were lost. With the main bulk of the Korbin’s Kommandos moving forwards towards the main landing zone Hermann Korbin marshalled his forces as the unit’s DropShips came in for landings the first being their large spheroid vessel the Union-class Pit Bull which landed vertically. Already the vessel was firing on the ground targets.
“Pit Bulls stay close to the DropShip, you don’t board until the armour is clear” Korbin commanded as several more defending BattleMechs and vehicles approached. Above them the unit’s Assault Triumph and Fesnyng were approaching their landings firing on the ground as they came down.
“Looks like the Colonel want’s part of the action” another of the MechWarriors said taking the DropShips in so close to the ground was dangerous but their pilots knew what they were doing. With a single pass completed their Assault Triumph, the Knightwatch, came in for landing while the other DropShip continued to cover them. In the air joining the Fesnyng was their aerospace fighters who quickly committed to attack runs against the ground forces.
“Vehicles first” Hermann commanded as the doors opened allowing their ground forces to withdraw both the BattleMech and Aerospace Fighters held the perimeter steadily the Kommandos were taking more damage as their third DropShip came in for a landing. “As soon as the Princess is down board by the numbers lance commanders your lightest or worse damaged Mechs first.” He ordered as their light Mechs began to return to their Kommandos lines “good to see you are back with us Leutenant Bruce.” He said as the scarlet coloured Stormcrow ran past him.
“Yes, sir, didn’t want to miss our flight. Shame really the equipment we turned to slag would have made for good salvage.” Penny Bruce replied.
“Next time” he promised her overall this mission had been far costlier than he’d expected as the defenders began to withdraw and the Kommandos boarded their DropShips.
Within a week of the Kommandos have withdrawn from the system and Oberon’s Government had denounced the raid as nothing better than a pirate attack. A month later Oberon signed an agreement with nearby worlds to form the New Oberon Confederation in response to increasing threats from nearby powers and interfering succession lords.
R&D Test Ranges
SLDF Command, Mars
Terra, Star League Protectorate
22nd August 3111
After years of R&D and testing on Mars and on Kittery the Star League Defence Force abandons its attempts to get an entire regiment of BattleMech Drones to operate in unison instead deciding to concentrate on strategies involving smaller units. The two regiments of drones are broken up into company sized units and spread across the Star League Protectorate worlds with the drones assigned to Star League Guard units.
As this decision is made the systems of Cor Carol and Alioth in the Lyran Commonwealth’s Isle of Skye complete their transitions to become new members of the Star League Protectorate following years of raids by Clan Wolf and little support from Skye in shoring up their militias. Unlike the Lyran model the Protectorate promises to raise defensive units on the planet but also announces that locally owned forces would come under state control. This action results in the formation of two new mercenary commands based on forces formally under the ownership of planetary dukes both are hired by the planets to supplement SLDF forces assigned to their defence.
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So how bad was the raid for Korbin’s Kommandos??
Damm intel weenies screwed us
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Yay, new stuff. O0 <- thumbs up smiley...
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So how bad was the raid for Korbin’s Kommandos??
Damm intel weenies screwed us
In total
Mechs 2 lost 1 gained
Vehicles 8 lost
Battle armour squads 3
Aerospace Fighters 4
Yay, new stuff. O0 <- thumbs up smiley...
Yeah it's not abandoned I promise
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thank you
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Wonder what's up with the Word of Blake...
>:D
TT
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Great to see this back :D
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got to agree, whats up with the WoB? Also, were is everyone favorite periphery/clan nation?
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got to agree, whats up with the WoB? Also, were is everyone favorite periphery/clan nation?
Properly selling starmaps on the side of the Exodus Road for tourist.
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Jump-in, Sceptre
Horikawa, Independent system
Deep Periphery
8th September 3111
The battered Strike Cruiser Sceptre jumped into the Horikawa system which was a known independent system of the Periphery which flirted with being a member of the nearby Fronc Reaches but the nation had no real standing in the system. Immediately after entering the system the Sceptre’s advanced sensors scanned the space detecting several minor conflicts being fought throughout the system. In high orbit over the third planet of the system was a massive space station “The Ark” the place that Captain Jerry Harper hoped his WarShip would find resupply.
Off the WarShip’s port side, an Invader-class JumpShip hovered its shocked crew looking at the vessel. “Unidentified craft this is Captain Thomas Granger of the Fronc Reaches militia you have this system is contested and you have no jurisdiction in this system withdraw…” the Sceptre moved in rapidly firing weapons shooting out the after section of the JumpShip crippling its Jump Drive but leaving the ship mostly intact. There would be casualties on the ship but most of the crew would have survived.
“This is Captain Jerry Harper” the Sceptre transmitted as it began to move into the system. “We do not mean the people of this system trouble but we will defend ourselves. For those who do not mean us hostile action we are willing to trade with you fairly.”
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Three days later the Sceptre arrived near the Ark facility which appeared to be a collection of two Olympus stations and several smaller stations which had been connected together. Over the Ark facility were three DropShips moving around the facility and several aerospace fighters engaged in combat. “Situation report” Harper ordered
“Two Leopard CV DropShips and a single regular Leopard. The normal Leopard looks like it has been fitted to carry small craft and ground troops. The station’s defenders appear to be engaging them.”
“Give me a general communications frequency.” Harper commanded to his side another officer nodded “this is Captain Jerry Harper of the WarShip Sceptre. All forces cease combat or we will open fire.” Within moments a jumble of replies came back into the CIC. “Filter them out!” Harper barked “I want the station commander first and foremost then whoever is claiming to be in charge of the DropShips.”
“Yes, sir” one replied as a squadron of six aerospace fighters and one of the Leopard CVs turned to face the Sceptre.”
“DropShip approaching our position if you continue to close on the WarShip Sceptre you and your fighters will be subject to defensive action.” Harper said as the DropShip and fighters continued to close on their position. “Weapons knock them down” he said as the communications system crackled to life as did the Sceptre’s weapons which fired to deadly effect knocking down the incoming Leopard CV and its fighters.
“WarShip Sceptre this is Administrator Logan Rosenzweig of the Ark station this station is currently engaging in defensive action against enemy boarders. We cannot accept new visitors at this time.”
“Visitors? Seriously did he just see what we did?” one of the crew asked.
“Quite!” Harper commanded “target both of the remaining DropShips. Ark station Sceptre stands ready to support your efforts if we can expect fair treatment after this battle is over.” He said there was several moments of silence over the radio before a response.
“You will be dealt with fairly” Rosenzweig responded “we have enemy combatants in space around us and in sections of this space station.”
“Communicate the locations we will deploy out Elementals.”
“Elementals?”
“Our vessel’s marines we are former Clansmen. If this is a problem then we can leave you to your troubles.”
“We welcome your help”
“Weapons released on both enemy DropShips and any aerospace fighters that wander too close.” Harper commanded “deploy Elementals to the station we will feed them landing coordinates as they go.” The Sceptre’s main batteries came alive crossing the vastness of space in seconds to shred both enemy DropShips in only a single salvo. The Sceptre’s capital barrage continued and while far less effective against the smaller craft the amount of fire put out by the Sceptre cut at least two of the aerospace fighters from space.
“The Konstantin is also breaking formation.”
“Contact Banacek and remind him we want this station intact.”
“Aff, Star Captain” Lewis said glancing back over a moment later “Star Captain, Banacek understands and will only provide fire support if it is required.” The Overlord-class DropShip and two Small Craft closed rapidly on the station with BattleMechs dropping from the Overlord and Elementals dropping from the small craft onto the station following coordinates provided by the station’s command.
“Lewis, pass to station command pull back their people and seal off that section to space.”
“Station commander said they cannot comply, sir.”
“Tell them to comply or they lose everyone they have in that section.” He commanded watching the Elemental movements on the hull knowing the movement from his people. “Communicate with Elemental Commanders hold blow for one minute.”
“Station commander said he needs three minutes to effectively pull back.”
“His people better hustle or anchor down then” Harper said watching their command deck clock tick down from one minute. When it reached zero charges were blown at five points on the station’s hull and the Elementals entered the station. Most boarding crews wore environmental protection just for this reason but few could hold up under a decompression and an attack by Elemental troopers. Within seconds all twenty-five Elementals were inside the hull and the battle moved from the outer hull to the inner hull of the station. While Harper had the facility to watch the Elemental cameras he found such battles confusing and distracting and instead continued to watch the general station activity and Banacek’s BattleMechs which had arrayed themselves on the sections around the section where the Elementals were currently fighting inside essentially allowing them to attack multiple points of the station’s hull if it came to it.
After what felt like an hour but was actually eleven minutes the first all clear was posted by the Elementals. Within the next four minutes another twenty-two all clears sounded with two Elementals not checking in with the troopers either dead or their suits too badly damaged for them to reply. “Let’s see how accommodating they are” Harper said “have Banacek keep his people in place and keep our weapons active but not targeting and have the Elementals evacuate that section back to transports.” He said making several rapid-fire orders as the Sceptre continued to hold on station near where their people had been deployed.
“WarShip Sceptre this is Administrator Rosenzweig welcome to the Ark facility please submit your supply requests.” He said no longer questioning the Sceptre’s actions instead taking in their results.
Ghost Bear Trial of Possession
Sudeten, Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
12th September 3111
MechWarrior Morgan Ghost Bear is deploye by the Rasalhague Dominion for the first time fighting in a Trial of Possession against Clan Jade Falcon for a Trinary of the newly deployed OmniMech version of the Shirke BattleMech as the Bears retaliate for recent attempts by the Falcons to begin Harvest Trials again targeting the Bears production and Sibko graduates. The Bears are successful in winning the trial bloodying the Falcon’s nose and claiming possession over the OmniMechs. Morgan Ghost Bear piloting a Lobo 2 BattleMech he takes down an entire point of Elemental warriors and a light BattleMech during the trial before falling to a physical attack from a Jade Falcon BattleMech. For his efforts during the trial Morgan is awarded one of the captured Shirke OmniMechs.
Nova Cat Raid
Dicallus, Taurian Concordat
Periphery
19th September 3111
The battle had been a tough one but the First Nova Cat Vision Cluster had been successful in battle against the Fifth Taurian Hussars Regiment on Dicallus destroying the defenders. Now Star Colonel Sean Nostra was watching as his troops recovered their lost equipment from the battlefield.
“Sentry to Vision One, we have four approaching BattleMech Recovery Vehicles and several ground transports.” One of the perimeter guards communicated.
“Base Delta to Vision One, communication from Taurians.” His lead DropShip communicated
“Pass it through to me.” Nostra commanded a moment later his BattleMech’s communication crackled to life.
“This is Governor Helena Mieli to Clan raider the approaching BattleMech Recovery Vehicles and technical vehicles are our gift to you for your victory we hope this will be enough to stop further attacks.” The female voice said Nostra almost cursed that the locals were treating his Clansmen like common pirates.
“Governor, we Clansmen take what we want we do not need gifts…” He said he saw that another of his MechWarriors was trying to break in on the conversation and reached for the communication toggle just as his own BattleMech’s detected the rising radiation from the BattleMech Recover Vehicles. “No…” he whispered but by then it was too late from the two vehicles twin supernovas rose into mushroom clouds which quickly encompassed the remaining Nova Cats wiping out the First Nova Cat’s Vision Cluster.
News Conference
Star League Command, Kittery
Kittery Prefecture, Star League Protectorate
24th September 3111
While the new crews had known that Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion had been on Kittery for the last day meeting with Protector-General Devlin Stone few had expected a news conference to be held on the world instead expecting any announcements to be made when the Exarch returned to Terra. Instead however Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion dressed in a white military uniform with green epilates on the shoulder, a Star League Defence Force Cameron Star on the right breast and his various campaign medals on the left breast.
“Ladies and gentlemen during my discussions with Protector-General Devlin Stone it has been decided that the Kittery Prefecture will remain a holding of the Star League Protectorate and continue to be protected by the Star League Defence Force Regiments, the Star League Guard Regiments and the Star League Navy.” He said telling people things that they probably already knew “what will change for the Star League Protectorate is that the governing body on Kittery will be given full control over local matters for the Protectorate such as tax increases, financing schooling, domestic services and infrastructure. This will allow Kittery and its Prefecture worlds to grow at a pace that will suit them instead of trying to follow the line of the Protectorate and give people more control over where they wish to take their worlds. Initially Protector-General will lead the devolved government however we expect open elections will take place within three years.”
While Victor’s announcement made little immediate changes, the longer-term changes could not be discounted with the Kittery government able to control how quickly its worlds develop. Being a devolved government, they could also make diplomatic moves and deals with their neighbours that Terra may not have been able to broker.
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Nice update!! I guess the planet Dicallus in the TC is pretty much gone in the near future? I wonder what Clan Nova Cat will do in response?
The warship Sceptre will hopefully find a homeport for a brief respite and be able to make some maintenance and resupply! Looks like the Kittery prefecture will be its own country with SLDF support to prop them up.
Nice to see the updates!
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Looks like Dicallus will become a nuclear test facility until it glows.
Nice updates. :thumbsup:
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Oh lord..using nukes against the Clans..them gloves they are gonna come off! Also great to see this is back! Must admit was a bit worried it had died off.
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I was worried too, but entire forum board itself seems to be the same way with lack of new product.
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Not dead just me being distracted lots changed/changing for me in RL for the most part for the good life actually hasn’t been this good for a while but I’m trying to find a new balance and this particular obsession of mine has taken a back seat while I sort out what is wanted and needed.
My SSW program is also corrupted hence no new toys recently.
Updates will be random but they will keep coming it’s my only guarantee right now
Anyway glad you enjoyed the update
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We will be here waiting on more when you are ready
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We will be here waiting on more when you are ready
Seyla!
And its great to hear things are going well too Dragon Cat :)
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I was worried too, but entire forum board itself seems to be the same way with lack of new product.
i'm trying to push my beta reader to be fasters so that i can get my bsg/battletech crossover and spin off working.
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Been too long but after helping out a little with Blacknova's AU I fancied writing my own so here we go another update
Grand Council Meeting, Council Chambers
Andrey, Tukayyid
Clan Space
1st October 3111
Khan Canin Rosse stood in the council chambers pacing among the other Khans the anger radiating off of him. “The dezgra Taurians elected to use nuclear weapons in their defence of their nation instead of fighting like true soldiers!” He snapped “this cannot go unanswered, and it will not go unanswered, I demand that each of you stand with my Clan in the name of this Council and of our Founder and join this declaration!” Around the room there was murmurs from the other Clans but no-one spoke immediately causing the elderly Nova Cat Khan's anger to raise even higher. “Has some surat ripped out your tongues? Are any of you willing to empower the Inner Sphere and Periphery states by not joining this declaration? Weapons of Mass Destruction are not a valid weapon of honourable combat. Perhaps you prefer to use them as you are unable to defeat your enemies without them?”
“You dare to suggest we would use such weapons?” Jana Pryde asked standing up looking at him angrily. “How do we know that your Nova Cats did not start with the use of nuclear weapons? Your Clan is against a far larger nation.”
“Do you think that my Clan would need to use such weapons against an impotent nation such as the Concordat?” Canin asked angrily “my Clan has faced adversity on all sides…”
“The Federated Suns does not count…” Khan Michael Hawkins of the Rasalhague Dominion said “we all know of your Clan’s peaceful actions towards them.”
“Peaceful?” saKhan Katrine Devalis challenged “I can guarantee our relations with the Federated Suns are anything but peaceful recently we won control over the systems of McRae, Steinhatchee, Jesup and Cogdell while the Federated Suns recaptured the systems of Ebro, Memphis and Great Gorge.”
“You mean they were gifted?” Amina Kerensky taunted the Wolf Khan not moving.
“If by gifted you mean Trials of Possession in which both side took losses then yes they were gifted in the way that items, places and warriors have been gifted since our Clans were founded!” Khan Canin Rosse his anger not dimmed by the interruptions. “Our dealings with our neighbours is not your concern. The actions of the Taurian Concordat are” he said finally turning towards Loremaster of the Clans Brennley Roshak. “Loremaster to allow this to continue will invite the other nations to use such weapons against all of the other Clans.” He said to the young woman who held the post “you know I am correct? I call for a clan wide condemnation against the Taurian Concordat.” He said looking at the assembled Khans.
“The Nova Cat Khan has made a motion, is there a second?”
“I second” Khan Evangeline Clarke of the Sea Fox said
“Then it sent to a vote.” The Loremaster said moments passed and the votes fell in line as expected despite their failure to react to Khan Rosse's words none of the Clans could ignore the use of weapons of mass destruction against one of their number with all of the Clans voting for condemnation of the Taurian Concordat and all voting to class the Taurian forces as Dezgra whenever they were encountered. Following the vote the Loremaster stood from her chair “if there is no further business?”
“Actually there is…” Canin Rosse said once more standing up from his chair.
“This council recognises Khan Canin Rosse of Clan Nova Cat.” The Loremaster said formally unlike her previous announcement she sounded more irritated than before.
“When the Founder brought the Clans into existence he created twenty Clans to rule our people. Over the years our numbers have dwindled until there are only the nine Clans represented here today. Less than half of our original number.”
“Make your point Khan Rosse” Pryde said interrupting she like the Loremaster sounded annoyed by the Nova Cats continued hogging of the limelight.
“My point is that this council has the power to recognize the foundation of new Clans.” He said “it has already been done with the formation of Clan Stone Rhino many years ago and I think it is time to form another Clan.”
“The Rhinos have fallen, they were not strong enough to survive, no new Clan will ever be strong enough to survive.” Hawkins of the Rasalhague Dominion said speaking again.
“I do not agree” Katrine Devalis said rising from her chair “as you know Clan Nova Cat has been fighting on another front as well as against its neighbours. Our forces have had successes against the Draconis Combine but in doing so we have also developed many of our own traditions…”
“Traditions that your Khan should stamp out” Khan Teresia Cooper of the Hell’s Horses said
“Traditions that I have commanded are embraced.” Khan Rosse said putting down Cooper’s interruption “my people are changing.” Rosse said “in ways that can never be put down by a Khan, unless you are a Smoke Jaguar.” He snapped “I am a leader within Clan Society, my duty to my people is explore every option.”
“Every option” Katrine Devalis repeated “Khan Rosse and I have both followed the rules and conduct of leaders of a Clan.” She said seeing a couple of disapproving looks “and this is the correct direction for our people.”
“I call on this council to agree to the formation of a new Clan. And give this Clan a year to build its strength before Trials of Possession are placed against it.”
“A year preposterous if they have grown like they have then they do not need such a length of time to build.” Khan Evangeline Clarke said obviously seeing a potential target.
“Tradition before greed.” Katrina Devalis taunted the Sea Fox Khan.
“I call for all of the Clans to vote on this.” Khan Rosse said addressing the Loremaster as with before on the previous vote. In turn the Khans voted on the creation of another Clan the Coyotes, Nova Cats, Fire Mandrills, Rasalhague Dominion and Wolves voted for the motion while the Sea Fox, Snow Ravens, Jade Falcons and Hell’s Horses voting against. With the vote passed by a majority of five to three the splinter faction of the Nova Cats was reborn as a new Clan which was to be named Clan Lynx with Katrine Devalis the first provisional Clan.
Together as one the Clans announce that Taurian Concordat forces would henceforth be classed as dezgra and that Clan Lynx stood with the other Clans. As part of the formation of the new Clan Nova Cat units begin to fight Trials to determine which would join Clan Lynx and which would remain within Clan Nova Cat. In total the best part of three Galaxies choose to join Clan Lynx with several individuals fighting Trials of Refusal to remain Nova Cats. Supporting these units five WarShips, a YardShip and two Merchant ships also join Clan Lynx. Although all the Clans agree to not attack the new Clan the same cannot be said for the nearby Draconis Combine.
Control Tower, Chang-an City Spaceport
Liao, Acamar PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
9th October 3111
The young Leftenant ran into the Spaceport’s command room as a second salvo of flares lit up the sky followed by more explosions on the ground and on several nearby buildings. “What’s going on?” He almost shouted looking out the others on duty.
“Leftenant when one of the DropShips landed it immediately exposed hidden weapons and opened fire on anything within range. They are deploying combat vehicles…” he said as part of the building was rocked by an explosion.
“Where are the militia?”
“Their barracks took direct hits from an artillery barrage! They’re in total disarray!”
“Do we know what DropShip…”
“LN5402…”
“LN5402 are you sure?” The Leftenant demanded even as the others confirmed it his mind flashed back to the meeting he’d had just days before which allowed for a not insignificant amount of money to be transferred into his account if he cleared LN5402 to land when it came in system without all of the normal checks.
“Leftenant Patterson…” another of his colleagues said but Daniel Patterson was too in shock to answer as further explosions rocked the building.
The Night of Screams Massacre as it would become known would claim 72,657 lives mostly civilians but also including almost every member of the militia, of the spaceport’s staff and the planetary duke with the attackers only being stopped two days later after reinforcements from the other side of the planet.
An investigation followed showed that the attackers had specifically gone out of their way to target civilians specifically targeting large residential buildings trying to start major fires to maximise casualties, in an effort to do this all units carried ammunition capable of setting fires. Further analysis of their equipment showed that the raiders technology hailed from every side of the Inner Sphere and Periphery and all identification marks had been removed from their equipment. MIIO and DMI investigators prove that Leftenant Daniel Patterson accepted a bribe which got the DropShip through customs without checks and onto the planet unfortunately the Leftenant’s body is found within the wreckage of the spaceport complex and they are unable to bring him to trial. Locally Patterson becomes known as the Betrayer of Liao.
Beyond Liao support ships and personnel were sent to the world from the Federated Suns and Star League Protectorate while accusations flew between the Federated Suns and Capellan Confederation as to the origin of the raiders. With neither side ready to begin a war over the incident the Star League Protectorate offers to deploy an intelligence unit to the planet to help the MIIO and DMI find out exactly who attacked Liao.
Border raids
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
18th Octber 3111
For years the raids had become a part of life of living on Carnwath, Izar and Zebeneschamali with the Isle of Skye Armed Forces either incapable or unwilling to stop the raiders the three worlds had spent significant amounts of money on hiring in mercenary units to supplement the defences provided by their national leadership. Questions continue to rise on all three worlds asking why their worlds are being left to fend for themselves against these raiders while still paying money to Skye and Arcturus.
Main Meeting Room, Stone Spirit Hall
Forbidden City, Strabo
Stone Spirit Space, Periphery
29th October 3111
Entering one of the main meeting halls on Strabo President Calvin McIntyre felt uneasy he had travelled through the Periphery with the WarShip Erinyes to negotiate with the Stone Spirits for access to their shipyard and hopefully their Clan weaponry. He stood waiting in the strangely Capellan architecture of the meeting room according to the rumour mill the Stone Spirits had stumbled on this world and half a dozen others which had copies of the Inner Sphere’s capital cities in the Twenty-seventh Century the Forbidden City had been in the best condition and they had set up in the system. Now McIntyre had left his recently reborn Cirincus Federation to personally negotiate to with the Stone Spirits other than the Capellan styling there was little to say about the room it there was a large table with built in holoimager, several comfortable seats and it had several windows overlooking a Stone Spirit training area the windows had no blinds or curtains and the carpet looked like it was the same one that had been there since it was originally occupied by the Rim Worlds Republic.
From one of the side rooms the Stone Spirit Khan Eli Furey entered he was a large man but wore a simple utility jumpsuit devoid of any insignia Calvin only recognized him because of the intelligence reports he had read. “President McIntyre welcome to Strabo, I thank you for making the trip personally.”
“Your negotiators made it quite clear that we could not do business without my presence.”
“Aff, leader to leader is important, Mr President” he said in response “and your WarShip is quite an impressive show of force.”
“Where I go it goes and you were gracious to allow it to enter this system I thank you.”
“Aff, we have no concerns about your WarShip, we have no concern for any WarShip”
“Because you can produce your own?”
“Aff, we have the facilities for this” he admitted “but as you know we do not have the resources to build fully operational WarShips.” He said it was the whole reason behind this meeting the for the two nations to work together to produce new ships.
“Then how can you not be concerned with enemy WarShips? I know you have some vessels of your own and that you have the capabilities to create nuclear weapons” McIntyre said testing the waters “but you have not deployed any near your jump points.”
“We have no need”
“My WarShip could flatten this world” McIntyre warned
“And I could destroy it in a second” he said bringing up a holo-image from the main table displaying an image of a stripped JumpShip which looked like it had been stripped of almost all systems required for long range travel. “A faster than light torpedo.”
“That is impossible!” McIntyre nearly shouted in surprise “it is a concept that has not worked with decades of research.”
“One of your order’s scientists helped us refine it Acoloyte McIntyre” the Khan said taunting the President a little showing that the Stone Spirits knew a lot more than he expected the fact that they knew of his past and were still willing to speak to him told McIntyre a lot more about the people he was dealing with.
“Impressive, Khan Furey” he admitted
“Thank you, Mr President, now that we understand where each other we can negotiate.” Furey finally said shutting down the projector and opened his hand inviting McIntyre to follow him into another room adjacent to the meeting room there McIntyre found that the Stone Spirits had prepared some food for them to dine as they negotiated.
“I am looking for supplies of Clan weaponry to safeguard my nation against raids from the Rim Collection, Lyran Commonwealth and Free Worlds League.” He said as he sat cutting right to the point of the talks.
“So many enemies for such a small nation.” The Khan said cutting into a large piece of beef that was on the table moving some of it to his plate McIntyre did the same as they continued to speak.
“These powers have destroyed my nation once, they hate the existence of my Federation, I do not wish it to happen again.” He explained trying the drink that was on the table finding it to be a vintage Lyran wine which had to be worth tens of thousands on the open market.
“We can provide you with weapons but what can you provide us?” The Khan said drinking from his own glass instead of treating it with the reverence that the drink would have received in the Inner Sphere the Khan drank it almost like it was a public house beer.
“We have natural resources that we are set up to mine and transport to wherever you wish. We are also able to provide you with manpower and equipment to fully exploit the territory you already control.”
“You think we are not able to do this ourselves Quineg?” Khan Furey asked using the Clan word to question the man if it phased McIntyre he did not show it. As Furey continued to eat he observed and listened to McIntyre who's Word of Blake education showed as he approached things.
“No, I believe you are more than capable, your FTL Torpedo proves this” he said still barely believing such a thing existed. “We could help you build more, more weapons to force your enemies to respect you like your people should be respected.” He said trying to play to the Clansmen’s ego “and in exchange you could help my people survive against the enemies at our gates.”
“I believe we can come to some sort of an agreement.”
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Snazzy update, Dragoncat.
Question: Clan Lynx? I thought you were hinting using the full name of the beasty you first showcased year or so. I forget the full name. :-\
I feel bad for Rosse since he essentially going attack his grandchildren since his daughter married into the leadership of the Concordat.
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Leopard eagle was the full name but I thought a Clan twist would be better
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Leopard eagle was the full name but I thought a Clan twist would be better
Your story, i thought it was a Griffin.
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Wonder what the Scorpions are up to... and any Word on the, you know who...
TT
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Interesting update. Surprised there wasn't a Trial of Refusal against the formation of Clan Lynx with that close a ratio.
And I am gathering its name is merely a provisional name until the former Nova Cats properly rename themselves?
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Interesting update. Surprised there wasn't a Trial of Refusal against the formation of Clan Lynx with that close a ratio.
And I am gathering its name is merely a provisional name until the former Nova Cats properly rename themselves?
There's potential for a lot of change with Clan Lynx.
Few of the Clans are actually interested in what the Nova Cats/Lynx are up to while they all attend the Council they've also all got their own interests
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I started writing today and did not realize it was May the last time I wrote anything :o really shocking. Anyway I hope you all enjoy this little edition.
Downtown, Chang-an City
Liao, Acamar PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Sun
2nd November 3111
Leftenant Peter Mattlock could not believe the damage that had been done to downtown Chang-an City on the world of Liao. By all accounts in a few short hours half of the city had been demolished by raiders that carried weapons specifically attuned to causing property damage and civilian deaths. Mattlock’s detachment from the First Federated Suns Armoured Cavalry had been among the first to attend the call for assistance and now the entire brigade was on its way to the system. Sitting in the cockpit of his factory new CN11-0 Centurion OmniMech Mattlock couldn’t help but shake his head the OmniMech, the most advanced model of Centurion ever built, hadn’t seen combat yet against an enemy of House Davion and was at this moment being used as an oversized crane with its normal weapons array completely replaced with a pair of fully articulated hands and a pair of lifting harnesses on the back. He had carried in medical supplies, food and water with the harness when they had arrived and was not using the Centurion’s hands to hold up a collapsed building beam while medical and search and rescue teams did their work.
Mattlock didn’t actually have to do all that much pick up and hold the building in place his OmniMech for all of its advanced equipment was nowhere near capable of moving the building or steading it completely instead he would brace it until it was cleared then they would move on. Sitting in the cockpit Mattlock had some music on low as he waited for the ground team some might see it was bad-taste to be listening to New Avalon’s finest rock band while people searched for survivors but it kept Mattlock sane as he held position for the work to be done. Suddenly his sensors pinged up three new contacts entering the street none were bearing AFFS markings or identification markers.
“This is Able Three to Able One, I have three unknowns entering MacDonald Street please advise.”
“That’s the New Canton Guard Regiment, they and Elgin Guard are assisting with recovery operations.”
“The SLDF?”
“That’s correct Mattlock we might be part of House Davion’s army and be proud of it but we don’t tell people willing to help to turn around understood Able Three.”
“Understood sir” he said as a Crusader BattleMech and two recovery vehicles belonging to the New Canton Guard closed on his position. “I’ll welcome anyone who saves lives today.”
“Right attitude, Able Three, carry on your good work.” His commander replied before cutting the link Mattlock rolled his eyes as he continued to brace the building for the supply team. This was not the test he expected for his brand-new OmniMech he couldn’t wait to test it against enemies of the Federated Suns.
Trial of Possession, Proving Grounds outside Silverdale
Alshian, Alsian Province
Rasalhague Dominion
18th November 3111
On the Proving Grounds outside Silverdale Morgan Ghost Bear climbed down from the Ursus BattleMech he had used during today’s Trial of Possession. As he reached the ground Loremaster Boris Jorgensson approached the battered Ursus. For the last thirty minutes the Loremaster had witnessed Morgan battle and defeat a trueborn Ghost Bear warrior piloting the same type of BattleMech. The Ursus was nothing like his own Shirke OmniMech but the trial had demanded that both Warriors were given an equal chance of success in winning the battle. After two days becoming acquainted with the new BattleMech the two warriors had met in combat outside the Rasalhague Dominion capital city.
“Morgan Ghost Bear, you did today and have earned the rank of Star Commander and with that you have agreed to take on the responsibilities that rank gives you.”
“I have agreed to this.”
“Then Star Commander Morgan Ghost Bear you will begin your new duties tomorrow once a command that needs you has been accepted.”
Public announcement
Imperial Palace, Imperial City
New Samarkand, Military District of Midway
21st November 3111
Warlord Hirohito Kurita, the defacto leader of the Draconis Combine, stood in front of the tri-vid camera dressed in the full military uniform of the Draconis Combine Mustered Society with all the military awards he was due and addressed the nation. “People of the Draconis Combine you all know me my name is Hirohito Kurita. I am the son of Minoru Kurita and before the recent unpleasantness Coordinator Akira Kurita made elevated me to the position of Warlord in recognition for the service I had shown to the Draconis Combine and the duties I would now be required to complete.” He said taking a brief pause to sip some water from a glass with the emblem of House Kurita on it “I have heard that there have been questions regarding the absence of Coordinator Akira Kurita and his wife the Lady Julia Kurita. It is my grave duty to announce that the royal couple are in a state of grieving following the death of their unborn child. There was no error in this death simply a cruel twist of life. I would ask that their privacy be respected in this time. For the Combine.” He said saluting the camera before it shut off.
After standing there for a moment he stepped away from the camera towards his personal assistant a young woman in her twenties with exotic Hispanic features long curled dark hair and an all white business jacket and skirt. “Mia, I want that broadcast across New Samarkand tonight and across the nation by tomorrow.”
“Of course, sire” she said bowing deeply in traditional Japanese style. “Should I set aside areas for flowers?” She asked gaining a surprised glance from Hirohito. “In condolence for the Coordinator and his wife.” She explained.
“Yes, make all arrangements do not stop any well wishers who wish to approach the perimeter but none are to be allowed admittance to the residential area.”
“I believe the Imperial Guards know their duty…” she began but she saw the Warlord’s face change “but I will make sure that they know exactly what they need to do.” She said again making a deep respectful bow to the Warlord before withdrawing leaving Hitohita to his thoughts. Only a few knew the exact truth that Akira was locked in the Imperial Palace with his wife and that he was in no fit state to be seen by the public.
Command bunker, Southern Region
Allied States of John Marik, Twin Sons
District of Lesnovo, Free Worlds League
29th November 3111
The entrance to the High Command of the Allied States of John Marik opened to allow the District of Lesnovo uniformed officer to enter followed by two troopers dressed in Clan built Elemental armour that was painted in the colours of the Liger Warriors. The troopers remained at the main door way while the officer was led inside down a set of stairs to a holographic planning table.
“Colonel Dominic Nostra I presume?” One of the officials asked the warrior nodded “I assume you are hear to report on the surrender of the Badlands forces to those of the District of Lesnovo?”
“Negative I am not Lord Commander Henley” the man said putting the other man and the other three people in the room on edge “the District of Lesnovo commanded me to find a resolution to this conflict through any means.” He explained “I by birth right have Clan blood in me so I and the Liger Warriors challenged the leadership of the Badlands to a right to command.” He said the man looked confused “a trial for the position of leadership through combat.” He explained unfortunately what I was unprepared for was the tenacity and skill of the Badlands fighters and I lost this battle.”
“All very interesting Colonel, I am very sorry for your losses, but the Badlands units have begun to employ heavier fighting assets than have ever been seen on Twin Sons. We cannot hope to counter them what is your solution?” Henley demanded turning his back to the man only to hear a click of a weapon’s safety being switched off.
“With that loss I surrendered command authority of my forces to the Badlands fighters as well as my loyalty.” He said now speaking to Henley’s back “the heavier forces they are employing are forces that belong to the District of Lesnovo. The only way for those to be returned to their rightful owners is for you to surrender totally now.” Behind him up the stairs there was a brief rattle of a machine gun firing before more silence as one of the Elementals defended themselves “already blood has been spilled today Lord Commander. I do not want the next to be yours but if it is necessary then it will. There will be total peace on Twin Sons one way or another.”
“The North will continue to resist occupation.” Henley spat only just able to comprehend that he had just given his mortal enemies a compliment.
“If they do I fear for them as the Badlands forces wish for a final peace on this world as does Lesnovo.”
“Peace at the end of a gun.”
“If you walked the Badlands you’d know that the forces there do not keep the peace by the gun.” Colonel Nostra said defending the people from all the stories he had heard about their ancestors the current generation of warriors in the Badlands failed to live up to the brutality their people were known for.
“We can stop calling them the Badland forces Colonel Nostra, they are what the people of the Inner Sphere hate and fear more than their neighbour. These people you have thrown your lot in with are an incarnation of the Smoke Jaguar Clan everyone knows it despite the attempts to hide it. Their WarShip routinely passes over our cities as a constant reminder of their power over the Badlands and a reminder that we should fear them. Now with your help they have done the impossible and destroyed their first Inner Sphere nation.”
“Then you surrender?”
“I surrender” Henley said glancing over his shoulder at the gun still pointed at him “order all of our forces to stand down and return to their barracks. The Smoke Jaguars have won.” He commanded the others in the room.
“Thank you, Lord Commander,” Colonel Nostra said gritting his teeth he pulled the trigger and shot the man in the back of his head blood spattered over the table and the former commander of the Southern Region on Twin Sons slumped to the floor. “Carry out his last orders or each of you will face his fate as will all of your families. This ends like this or more blood will be spilled.” He warned them all despite his thoughts that the Badlands people were less brutal their commands had been very direct and for the good of his own unit and his own peoples families Colonel Dominic Nostra had agreed to go along with the orders despite his own misgivings. Dominic knew that once the truth of what happened today came out that he would be charged with murder and the Badlands forces rule over the South and possibly even the Badlands would be brought into question but for now he'd have to live with it.
Within the hour forces belonging to the Badlands had moved into all fortified stations of the southern region and arrested or executed every leader of the Allied States of John Marik. The victory had not been bloodless but the people of the south did not appear to be interested in resisting their new rulers.
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DC is alive. Praise Blake.
Great to see an update. :thumbsup:
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Darn good to see this and you back DC :) Great update as always :D
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Looks like that Smoke Jaguar doomed themselves yet again.
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Looks like that Smoke Jaguar doomed themselves yet again.
the SJ need to have a mech called Karma or maybe Bad Karma.
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the SJ need to have a mech called Karma or maybe Bad Karma.
If anyone wants to design I may even use it
I'll hopefully have something else ready within week
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I would not name Karma or Bad Karma, I would name it Instant Karma and it would be a ship of vast destructive capabilities
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I seem to recall a BattleTech Fansite called Bad Karma. Spent so much time offline, that name seems ominous. Perhaps Instant Karma would be better.
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if anyone wants to use the idea... go for it. I just don't have the time.
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It was a long week
Memorial Site, Duke Anton Marik’s Mansion
New Delos, District of Regulus
Free Worlds League
3rd December 3111
Walking through the still ruined forests and rubble of Duke Anton Marik’s Mansion on New Delos Ralph and Javier Halas were overawed by what they were seeing the battlesite had been preserved by successive rulers of New Delos as a reminder of what happened when one rebelled against the leadership of House Marik. The mansion was the site of the final battle of Anton Marik’s Revolt against the leadership of Jonas Marik when the Wolf’s Dragoons took their revenge on the rogue Duke and ended the Marik Civil War. The site was a popular place for tourists to visit on New Delos and the brothers had merged with the crowds seamlessly away together they had gotten away from their security detail during a state visit by their father to Matheran boarding a transport and escaping to New Delos how they hadn’t been stopped before leaving the system neither of them knew but they had fore filled their mission and now they were here in a place they’d both dreamed of for years.
Above the mansion a constant cloud covered the area almost like the world of New Delos would not allow anyone to see light in the place. As they moved around the facility Ralph and Javier saw the place that the rebel duke had been killed where part of the wall had collapsed crushing him. The body had long since been removed from the area but those responsible for maintaining the grounds had put everything back together recreating the exact result from his final stand against the Dragoons. Through the constant cloud cover red/yellow flares burned through the clouds as several BattleMechs hot-dropped towards the surface their jump jets on fire.
The crowd of people stood their mouths wide open as they began to see the painted colours of each Mech and their insignia that of the Ducal Guard of House Oriente the two twin brothers began to turn away from the flares but all they did was turn into members of their security detail who had been hidden in the crowd the whole time. Turning they saw their father’s Persus OmniMech land among the assembled Ducal Guard BattleMechs, they’d been had conned into believing that they had slipped away from their security when their father had been in control the whole time. The Persus quickly moved forwards towards them stopping a respectful distance from the memorial but close enough for everyone to feel the power of the seventy-five ton war machine the Mech’s external speakers crackled to life “boys you have been reckless coming here but I understand why you heard the call of New Delos wishing to throw off the yoke of Regulus and my Ducal Guard will happily return the Oriente flag to this world. With your dedication to the District of Oriente Ralph and Javier in the presence of these new citizens I am glad to announce that the Oriente Military Academy has accepted your applications to serve in the defence of our nation.” Their father broadcast to the entire group the twins looked at each other frustrated that it appeared that their father had not only anticipated their little rebellion but also used it as a political tool to retake a couple of worlds from Regulus.
Over the next two days the Ducal Guard supported by Oriente Militia forces captured the systems of New Delos and Varna destroying the Sixth Regulan Hussars and driving off the Fourth Regulan Hussars forcing the elite command off world and out of the system
Border conflict
Benjamin, Military District of Benjamin
Draconis Combine
16th December 3111
Strapped into his BattleMech Burton Davion felt the eighty-five ton OmniMech around him be buffeted by the wind of Benjamin as the Mech and two hundred others like it fell through the growing storm in Benjamin’s atmosphere. Around them flew dozens of Aerospace Fighters and assault DropShips as the Federated Suns upped the antie against the Draconis Combine and launched a full invasion of the Military District Capital world. Below them the anti-aircraft guns and surface to air missiles filled the air as the planetary militia, the Second Amphigean Light Assault, Third An Ting Legion and recently arrived Third Sword of Light Regiment attempted to protect the world none of the three units were at full strength and the militia was made up of warriors too old or too young to fight on the front lines. In the air the Davion Assault Guards, Davion Light Guards, all five of the Federated Suns Sword units and several special forces units fell on the world.
Toggling his jump jets to full burn Burton made the final preparations to land bracing himself for the impact as his OmniMech came in for a landing. The assault Mech landed with a crash running several steps forwards to cushion the impact. Immediately Burton saw targets for his weapons toggling the OmniMech’s Jump Jets to normal operation Burton raised the Templar III’s left arm like it was an extension of his own and pulled the trigger to his Clan-tech particle cannon. The from muzzle of the weapons a bolt of man-made lightning temporarily linked Burton’s OmniMech with an older model Combine Dragon BattleMech blowing a huge hole in the BattleMech’s torso. Accelerating forwards Burton keyed in the Mech’s supercharger accelerating to over eighty kilometres per hour cutting to the left then to the right dancing the Mech across the muddy ground as the rain pounded the ground around him. From the right arm of the Templar the LB-X type autocannon mounted there ripped open more holes in the Dragon while the torso mounted pulse lasers and left arm mounted medium laser added to the troubles the pilot faced. Unable to take more of a pounding the pilot ejected from his Mech as the ammunition carried onboard began to explode. Not resting on his laurels Burton looked at the horizon through the heavy rain and watched as six more BattleMechs emerged firing their weapons on the Davion troops. Despite being in an exposed position ahead of the other Davion troops Burton didn’t hesitate instead he launched the Templar back into the air pulling the trigger on his particle cannon this time striking an enemy Phoenix Hawk crippling the Mech’s right arm with his first shot. From behind Burton’s position missiles, lasers and autocannon fire pounded the Combine position as he came in for a landing immediately continuing his run forwards he saw that the BattleMechs were all of older models and smiled their intelligence had been correct they had landed beside the Benjamin Militia forces.
“Rip them up!” Be shouted into the communications targeting the Phoenix Hawk again this time with the autocannon tearing more armour from the lighter Mech which tried to return fire with laser fire but it was ineffective. From across the Davion line more lasers and missiles slammed into the forty-five ton BattleMech tearing it to pieces. Across the line Burton looked and saw all six enemy Mechs were under heavy fire from multiple positions and knew none would last long. Nearby his position several artillery strikes landed blowing new craters in the ground and sending mud flying everywhere. “Artillery!” He called a warning but he hadn’t needed to as a Davion Wasp BattleMech disappeared in a fireball after a direct strike from enemy fire. Launching the Templar back into the air Burton searched for another attack he saw a squad of the Federated Suns newest battle armour suit, the Fusilier, bring down a Combine Catapult with concentrated fire to its cockpit.
Despite their initial successes Burton had no intention on resting instead pushing forwards despite the weather and the increasingly heavy artillery barrages. He knew that there were more better equipped units out there and that the navy was still engaged in orbit with the FSS Black Prince and FSS Sword and Sun committed to the battle against the Draconis Combine’s Muashi and Pride of New Samarkand. The Federated Suns naval forces had a weight advantage but they were taking no chances Benjamin was more than a target it was symbolic of the mess that the Combine was in and of the strength of the Federated Suns which Burton was convinced he needed to prove after the recent troubles on Liao and along the Nova Cat border.
As he turned a volley of long range missiles slammed into his Templar’s torso throwing the Prince around the cockpit of the Eighty-five-ton OmniMech. The damage was minimal but it did determine his next target a Longbow support BattleMech which weighed in as much as the Templar but was exclusively equipped with long range missiles. Charging forwards Burton targeted the Longbow with the particle cannon as the Templar accelerated to a full run unfortunately the man-made lighting missed on this occasion filling the skies with light just as a natural lightning bolt lit up the skies above them Benjamin was showing its disdain for their presence. Another wave of long range missiles from the Longbow flew towards Burton’s Templar III but the First Prince was wise to the move turning his OmniMech first to the left then to the ensuring that the missiles that did hit were spread over the hull of the Templar minimising the chances of armour penetration. He returned fire with another particle cannon shot combined with an autocannon salvo this time both weapons tore into the Longbow’s light armour. A nearby four legged spider-like Bishamon tried to step in and help its ally firing medium range missiles and pulse lasers at Burton’s Mech but the First Prince was already committed to another attack this time firing the autocannon, pulse lasers and medium laser intent on keeping heat build up to a minimum. This time to autocannon smashed loose the last of the BattleMech’s torso armour while the pulse lasers and laser burned deep into the Longbow’s skeleton. From Davion lines long range missile and laser fire caught the Bishamon on the side throwing off its second salvo of missiles buying Burton time to finish off the Longbow with another particle cannon shot supported by pulse laser fire which cut through the armour and savaged the assault Mech’s gyro and engine a brief flare inside the BattleMech was snuffled as the fusion engine preformed an emergency shut down to stop a catastrophic explosion. Dancing away from the falling Longbow Burton’s Templar III was struck by a volley of lasers and pulse lasers while a hastly fired volley medium range missiles missed ripping more craters in the ground beside him. Burton twisted the Templar’s torso to track the Bishamon launching his own BattleMech into the air keeping a nearly constant barrage of pulse laser fire on the lighter QuadMech making sure the pilot wasn’t comfortable with what was happening and distracted from the other AFFS units which had moved in to flank them. Autocannon, lasers and missiles fell on the target from all sides rapidly tearing the QuadMech apart the pilot besieged from every side quickly offered his surrender admitting defeat. From behind Davion lines the AFFS artillery had finally countered the Draconis Combine artillery and silenced their opposition, the first battle of many on Benjamin was over.
In orbit the concentrated fire of two Mercury-class Battleships had been too much for the DCA defenders and both the Muashi and Pride of New Samarkand had been destroyed by Davion forces giving them control over the space around the world. Many of the Combine fighters had retreated to the planet but the Federated Suns beachhead had been secured. As the AFFS set up their defences they heard that assaults on Hagiwawa and Umijiri had gone off perfectly and the Federated Suns now had a presence on all three worlds. It would likely take months for them to secure all three systems but Burton sat in his Templar III’s steaming cockpit surveying his work today and smiled.
High Command Meeting, Unity City
North America, Terra
Star League Protectorate
20th December 3111
Dressed in a business suit with white shirt and a red tie Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion walked through the halls of the Star League Defence Force’s command on Terra it felt weird for him to be walking around in a military base without a uniform on but the people of the Star League Protectorate needed a leader not a warrior which was the whole point of this meeting. Entering the command briefing room he saw that Commanding-General Victor Focht, Protector-General Devlin Stone who wore their uniforms and several of the civilian leadership were already present. He out of instinct saluted both Victor Focht and Protector-General Stone before moving to his own position around the table. As he did several more civilians and a dark skinned Star League Defence Force Colonel entered completing those who had been called.
“Ladies and Gentlemen please take your seats” he said as they did he continued to speak “I have not been with you long but before he died Bannister Cameron had plans that he wished pushed through which will make the Star League Protectorate a more successful economic , military and political entity. He chose not to try to push through these changes because he believed if he as a member of the Cameron family was seen doing this then the Succession States would finally see a rebirth of the Terran Hegemony in everything but name.”
“Is that not what the Protectorate is?” Devlin Stone asked “Exarch, I am thankful for the strength that the Star League Defence Force has given Kittery and the worlds around it but it’s hard to deny that the Protectorate is slowly becoming its own very distinct beast from its defenders.”
“Exactly” Victor admitted looking at the younger man he couldn’t help but smile as he saw the stunned faces around him “I as an outsider have seen this for years but I have also seen the good that it has done for its worlds and for its neighbours. The Protectorate alone is not strong enough to stop the Succession States but its very presence makes it harder for the states to wage interstellar war on each other and has ensured that nations that need help can get it from an independent source instead of having to deal with potential rivals.”
“But war still happens” one of the civilian leaders pointed out, Victor had read her file and knew she was Governor Sophia Bollman the leader of Liberty.
“War is natural of humanity. I’m sorry to be the one that says it but it’s the truth.” Victor said “the most we can do is limit it. In the meantime, the Protectorate needs to be prepared for the future. It needs to improve economically be more politically orientated.”
“T’ whole point of t’ Protectorate wiz each world hid their ayne leadership and chose t’ be part of t’ Protectorate.” Clan leaders James “Jim” Campbell of Northwind pointed out in his deep Scottish accent. “Our worlds were tired of being led fae afar an’ wished our own rule but with t’ protection of a larger entity.”
“And that will continue.” Victor promised Northwind’s representative. “Individually there will be no change but instead I wish to create this.” He said activating the holo projector built into the table which brought up a map of the Protectorate. From Terra lines extended towards the Lyran, Federated Suns and Wolf Empire creating three distinct zones emanating from Terra. At the “southern” arm of the nation the largest of the three zones was split into three by further lines. “Northwind, Thorin, Talitha, New Canton and Liberty five Economic Development Zone capitals.” He said “in each region these worlds will help coordinate each world’s development if a world needs more workers it will be up to the councils on each of these worlds to decide how best to support them.”
“Which region is Terra in?” The dark-skinned leader of Talitha Prime-Minister Capheus Onyango asked.
“None of them” Victor answered “Terra remains independent with each of the five EDZ councils providing a representative to the Terran Council. They will be responsible for answering if a council fails a world in it’s EDZ and they will be responsible for guiding Terra’s own economic policy’s ensuring that Terra supports all other regions.”
“I don’t see Kittery in your list” Stone pointed out
“No, the Kittery Prefecture will remain independent and will also be responsibly for the outer colonies in the Draconis Combine, Federated Suns, Free Worlds League and Lyran Commonwealth. Kittery will accept members of each world’s leadership while also providing representatives to each of them.”
“These changes are huge Exarch our people will have to consult about the changes” Sophia Bollman said unsure if the populations of the Protectorate would agree. These changes could be the very thing that ripped the Protectorate to pieces.
“I know they are but they are necessary to give the Protectorate greater Economic and political balance. Bannister Cameron did not believe that the Cameron family should follow his legacy and lead the Protectorate unopposed. I do not believe that my family should rule the Protectorate.” He admitted before any of them got worried “instead I think the Protectorate should have it’s own internal mechanism for the future.”
“You said military changes as well?” Victor Focht asked
“Yes, the Star League Defence Force is a fantastic organisation but its responsibilities take it across the Inner Sphere. Instead the Guard regiments and the militias that support it have become the Protectorate’s defenders however they are completely isolated from each other while the military as little to no influence in the leadership of each world.”
“An intentional choice there was no intention on the Protectorate becoming a Federated Suns Lite.” Duchess of Thorin Katya Christifori pointed out she was the reluctant leader of Thorin and under this new plan a leader of one of the new Economic Development Zones.
“I know that as well” Victor said “but having an external support for each individual world and having a group that could pass on superior leadership and training to units on individual worlds could be beneficial. Which is why I propose the Knights Corps. A group of military officers that will travel the length and width of the Protectorate leaning support to where it is needed which is why I have invited Colonel Sir Said Taghmoui of the Knights of the Inner Sphere to join us today. Colonel Taghmoui will lead the effort to train members of the Guard regiments to fore fill this task and to help bind the various units across the Protectorate into one training and discipline regimen while also supporting worlds politically and acting as a go between worlds during trade disputes. They will be the eyes and ears of Terra and will help inform each EDZ of its responsibilities to its own people and to Terra. They will be independent of the SLDF and of the Guard units themselves and they will be answerable to this Council and to the Exarch.”
“I never took you for a man who needed a Secret Police.” Devlin Stone said he was mildly alarmed by this development.
“Oh I do not” Victor said “but I think that this Protectorate if it is to succeed needs as much support as it can get, although I was not born on any of the Protectorate worlds I will ensure that it gets everything I can give it.” He said “to that end I have been able to convince the Medusans Mercenary Command to take a contract with the Star League Protectorate primarily helping augment the defence of Fenwick and assisting in training of our WarShips to defend against squadrons of heavily armed DropShip squadrons.”
“That’s quite a prize” Devlin Stone admitted he had tried to convince the mercenaries to join his Prefecture’s defence several times but he had been unable to. “What did you have to give them in exchange?”
“There are three Quixote-class Frigates in mothball at Fenwick we plan on refurbishing those vessels during mercenary’s contract time.” Victor explained seeing their shock at the trading of two WarShips to mere mercenaries “of the ships available the Quixotes are those of least use to the Star League navy and the seeing how the Medusans deal with their addition to their numbers will inform future development of our own ships and squadrons.” He explained he could tell that the others were not completely convinced he knew from the negotiations that the Medusans current commanders Admirals Harwood and Jellicoe were both looking forward to their retirement now the unit’s future had been guaranteed.
Periphery Assaults
Taurian Concordat
28th December 3111
With full WarShip support several Nova Cat Galaxies assault several systems of the Taurian Concordat launching their first wave of their assaults on the Periphery nation. The Nova Cats are able to quickly overwhelm the sparse defences of the Taurian Concordat allowing none of the defenders to fall back and support other positions.
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Excellent to see this alive again and it seems that the Hegemony coming back to life might well be a real thing again under VSD. And regarding the Combine..I -almost- feel sorry for them.
Almost.
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For me, DragonCat. This fan-fiction keeps my spirit of Battletech alive. It truely does. It feels epic, world moving moments going on, building into bigger things. It feel good read this. Where balance of use of things going, slightly take on the universe live-ins up the genre. Even includes a larger balance of Warships, which i think proves that canon universe handling was wrong, both can exist at same damn time. ;D
Thank YOU for keeping this going with your busy life!
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For me, DragonCat. This fan-fiction keeps my spirit of Battletech alive. It truely does. It feels epic, world moving moments going on, building into bigger things. It feel good read this. Where balance of use of things going, slightly take on the universe live-ins up the genre. Evem including balance of Warships, which i think disproves that canon universe handling was wrong, both can exist at same damn time. ;D
Thank YOU for keeping this going with your busy life!
Seyla!
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For me, DragonCat. This fan-fiction keeps my spirit of Battletech alive. It truely does. It feels epic, world moving moments going on, building into bigger things. It feel good read this. Where balance of use of things going, slightly take on the universe live-ins up the genre. Even includes a larger balance of Warships, which i think proves that canon universe handling was wrong, both can exist at same damn time. ;D
Thank YOU for keeping this going with your busy life!
Ditto! Seyla!
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For me, DragonCat. This fan-fiction keeps my spirit of Battletech alive. It truely does. It feels epic, world moving moments going on, building into bigger things. It feel good read this. Where balance of use of things going, slightly take on the universe live-ins up the genre. Even includes a larger balance of Warships, which i think proves that canon universe handling was wrong, both can exist at same damn time. ;D
Thank YOU for keeping this going with your busy life!
So say we All (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B3EzRAgjo_s)
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Thanks for the kind words I write this story because you guys enjoy it and so do I so lets see where it goes
https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=1092.30#lastPost (https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=1092.30#lastPost)
The WarShip and Unit Lists
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Map for the beginning of 3112 made.
A list of territorial changes:
Rim Collection/Fire Mandrill
- Haggard - Erdvynn Province Absorbed
- Monthey - Erdvynn Province Absorbed
- Fallen Stars - Erdvynn Province Absorbed
- Armstrong - Erdvynn Province Absorbed
- Milvano - Erdvynn Province Absorbed
Lyran Alliance
- Alma Alta - gain from CJF
- Cameron - gain from CJF
Free Worlds League
- Vanra - Oriente gains from Regulus
- New Delos - Oriente gains from Regulus
Federated Suns
- Benjamin - Gain from DC
- McComb - Gain from DC
- Lima - Gain from DC
- McGehee - Gain from DC
- Damevang - Gain from DC
- Memphis - From CNC
- Ebro From CNC
Draconis Combine
- Barlow's End - Gain from FS
- Thestria - Gain from FS
- Elidere IV - Gain from FS
- Misery - Gain from FS
- Grovel III - Gain from RA
- Delacruz - Gain from RA
- Kesai IV - Gain from RA
Clan Nova Cat
- McRae - Gain from FS
- Steinhatchee - Gain from FS
- Jesup - Gain from FS
- Cogdell - Gain from FS
- Lastpost - Gain from TC
- Oscar - Gain from TC
- Diik - Gain from TC
- Marknick - Gain from TC
- Gaul - Gain from TC
Clan Jade Falcon
- Bountiful Harvest - Gain from CHH
- New Extford - Gain from CHH
Clan Lynx [Newly Formed]
- 29 Systems transferred from CNC
I certainly could have missed some, but I think that's fairly comprehensive.
PS. DC your newest map replaced Ebro with a second Morven.
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Thanks for the catch Vition and for the map it really looks excellent
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Amazing as always!
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Awesome update! :D
On the units table, it's missing the 7th Rim Guards formed from the remaining Erdvynn Provincial Militia, consisting of 4 Battlemech Stars, 2 Infantry Stars, and one Aerospace Star, assigned to Armstrong.
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Awesome update! :D
On the units table, it's missing the 7th Rim Guards formed from the remaining Erdvynn Provincial Militia, consisting of 4 Battlemech Stars, 2 Infantry Stars, and one Aerospace Star, assigned to Armstrong.
Added
Let's start 3112 with a bang or two. Hope you all enjoy
3112
Command Bunker, 2nd Protectorate Guard
Spitz, Taurian Concordat
9th January 3112
The office was filled with the smell of morning coffee and fresh toast Colonel Ian Milton sat at his desk and looked at the report with complete disbelief. Nearly a week ago the First Protectorate Guard, his unit’s sister command, had defended Erod’s Escape from a Clan Nova Cat attack with the use of Nuclear Weapons using such weapons to obliterate one of Clan’s WarShips and the Clan’s incoming DropShips and he was only hearing about it now. He immediately grabbed his desk phone and tried to raise the command tower “This is Colonel Milton” he said “I need you to put the base on an immediate alert and recall all leave” he commanded “what do you mean incoming contacts?” he said as the command tower relayed information to him “how the hell did we miss something that big coming in?” He demanded standing up from his desk the phone still in hand “that isn’t an excuse get our alert aircraft in the air…” he commanded “tower did you hear me?” He asked but instead all he got back was static instead he felt the ground move and the building he was in shake instinctively he dropped the phone the handset smashing on the concrete floor as he and everyone else in the office ran outside.
Stepping out of the main door of the Milton could barely believe what he was seeing as a little over a kilometre away the landing strip, command towers, hangers and the unit’s DropShips disappeared in a ball of flame. Suddenly further explosions leading from the spaceport to their position began to light up the ground. “INSIDE, EVERYONE INSIDE, NOW!!” Milton screamed in terror forcing the others that were with him back inside as the explosions closed. “Seal these doors!” He ordered moving over to a wall mounted communications station punching in his personal code he activated the PA system “All personnel seal external doors now!” He ordered hoping the bunker was reinforced enough to protect the personnel he had left.
For the next eighteen hours the bombardment continued causing two sections of the bunker complex to collapse but for the most part the complex held protecting the two hundred and seventeen inhabitants from harm. Unbeknown to Milton and the others in the bunker overhead a Nova Cat WarShip was taking its revenge for the nuclear attack on another member of it’s fleet the WarShip systematically destroyed every military facility and the planetary spaceport before leaving the planet behind broken.
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Thee days later Khan Canin Rosse spoke via HPG to the Taurian Concordat and surrounding areas. “I am Khan Canin Rosse leader of Clan Nova Cat. The incident at Splitz three days ago was an unfortunate consequence of Taurian actions over Erod’s Escape the use of nuclear weapons to destroy a Nova Cat naval asset was a deplorable act. We will not accept the continued use of weapons of mass destruction against out Clan in space or on planetary bodies will not be accepted. The first Star League Defence Force which our Clans descend from had a total war strategy for opponents who lacked honour we have dispensed with this in the past intent on allowing our opponents the chance of honourable combat. We are willing to allow you our opponents honourable combat, it is your choice.” He said pausing for a moment “the message that follows is for the current Star League council. Spitz was not Turtle Bay; casualties to the civilian population was minimised by our WarShip crew, Clan Nova Cat is not Clan Smoke Jaguar and the Clans are not divided in this.”
Across the Inner Sphere and Periphery, the nations of the Inner Sphere began to react to the Nova Cat actions and subsequent reactions with several Taurian worlds contacting Fronc and the Capellan Confederation for support. Both Capellan Confederation and Fronc Reaches take it upon themselves to take over the defence of the worlds contacting them in a remarkably bloodless manoeuvre the Capellan Confederation absorbs five Taurian worlds and one periphery world while the Fronc Reaches absorb four worlds with the Third Protectorate Guards switching loyalty to the Fronc Reaches. Hearing of the Nova Cat actions the rogue WarShip Sceptre jumps clear of the Joppa system heading deeper into the periphery intent on leaving the Clan and any fear of what could happen behind them.
Elsewhere the SLDF vowed to support the Taurian Concordat as a member state of the Star League however as they did this the Loremaster of the Clan Council Brennley Roshak announces the United Clan Council’s full support for Clan Nova Cat and that any combined assault will face the combined might of all the Clans.
Military Spaceport
Station Rubicon, Lesnovo
District of Lesnovo
15th January 3112
As they had been promised the Liger Warriors had been returned to Lesnovo by the Smoke Jaguars on Twin Sons but without the majority of their equipment. According to their captures that was being held as Isorla, a Clan word for Spoils of Victory, so instead the Liger Warriors were being returned to Lesnovo with the majority of their personnel intact but without a single Mech between them, a deathkneel for any unit in the Periphery.
Stepping off the Seeker-class DropShip into the late evening sun of Lesnovo Colonel Dominic Nostra felt the cool breeze and knew there was a storm in the air. As he descended down the ramp several armed District of Lesnovo soldiers “Colonel Nostra by command of Duke Brewer-Cameron-Jones you are to be placed under arrest and your command restricted to quarters.” The Force Commander in charge of the unit said.
“On what charge?” He demanded feeling his people tensing up around him.
“Causing unnecessary harm to citizens of the District of Lesnovo, specifically to the people residing in the Southern region of Twin Sons, which has been levied at your entire unit. And for multiple counts of murder, namely the Southern region’s command on Twin Sons, a charge that is solely placed on you.”
“Understood Force Commander” Nostra said he’d known such a charge was coming he just hadn’t expected it to land on his door step so quickly. “Stand down people follow your orders we followed the orders we were given.” He said evenly trying to ensure no incidents resulted in his arrest they had been told to end the fighting on Twin Sons and they had, not perfectly he’d be the first to admit, but they’d done the job they were given.
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Several hours later Colonel Dominic Nostra remained in the same room he had been escorted to in the command complex on Lesnovo. It was a non-descript interview room with grey walls, a two-way mirror, one door in and out a table and four chairs he’d been allowed to retain his personal effects so he’d so far tidied out his travel bag and read half of a fiction novel he’d started on the DropShip trip in system. The door swung open and in entered General Sanyam Dandekar immediately Nostra motioned to stand to attention but the dark-skinned man in full dress uniform waved him off. “Aren’t you a sorry state, what you got to say for yourself? Colonel”
“Sir, my orders were to end the fighting on Twin Sons due to our shared Clan heritage I challenged their leader to a personal battle and lost. As a result of this loss they used my unit’s superior firepower to overwhelm the Southern Region’s forces and force them to the negotiating table thus ending the conflict.”
“Costing hundreds of lives” Dandekar pointed out “you missed that part out, Colonel, carry on.”
“Yes sir, following this I was sent as an emissary to the Southern Region to accept their surrender. I then carried out my orders and executed the leadership of the Southern Region.” He said in a cold matter of fact way he could tell that Dandekar hated that admittance of guilt by him “sir, they had a gun to my people’s head they said that I follow these orders or my people would be killed.”
“Who’s orders?”
“Colonel Petra Furey, sir”
“So you went to the Southern Region and executed them bringing an end to the fighting.”
“After the Badlands leadership inprisoned all officials from the Southern Region yes sir it ended all of the fighting.” He said “my unit was then released from their bonds however the Badlands forces have seized all of our equipment and are using it as their own.”
“So you were sent to this planet to bring peace instead you create a bloodbath and give them more weapons than they had before? That about sum it up.”
“Sir, what other choice did I have?”
“Resist, resist the urge to cause death and mayhem, do what Furey has done in the North of Twin Sons.” He suggested giving Nostra options
“Sir?”
“She has brought peace to the entire planet she brought Northern and Southern realms to the table with her own people and have created a ruling council. The loyalties of the past have been outlawed and now they are wholy loyal to Twin Sons. They did that peacefully after the ‘warmogers’ we sent in did their damage.”
“They are lying through their teeth, sir, those people are not loyal to the Twin Sons they are loyal to the Smoke Jaguars” he corrected the General “sir, Furey is a dangerous woman she wants to see the rebirth of that Clan. The frakking Smoke Jaguars sir! The most hated Clan in the history of the Inner Sphere.”
“Well at the moment that’s debatable” Dandekar commented confusing Nostra even more. “It doesn’t really matter what you think or what I think Colonel the facts speak to themselves. Petra Furey has brought peace to Twin Sons and now instead of three governments we have one to deal with which Lesnovo thinks they can handle.” He said from his tone Nostra didn’t think the General agreed with that statement. “As for the facts surrounding your case your people did open fire on people of this district, you yourself did become judge, jury and executioner for citizens of this nation. That alone costs you your commission and your freedom.”
“What about my people?”
“They have no equipment and now no commander they will be broken up and sent to other commands. Any found to have commited further crimes on Twin Sons other than those already put on them will likely face your punishment. Colonel Dominic Nostra as of this moment I am stripping you of your rank, command and freedom. You’ll be shipped out to a military detention facility until your trial and sentence can be heard.”
“So much for being innocent until found guilty.” Nostra muttered under his breath
“What was that?”
“Nothing, sir” he replied deciding that giving the General more now would not be a good idea. Everything had gone wrong in the span of a few weeks and now his nation’s future could also be in the balance with the rise of the new government on Twin Sons.
Warlord’s Personal Residence
Imperial City, New Samarkand
Military District of Midway, Draconis Combine
28th January 3112
Warlord Hirohito Kurita stared at the tri-vid screen open mouthed his young daughter sat on the floor in front of him playing with toys. On the screen the message from Dieron continued to play “…my given name is Emiko Kurita I am the daughter of Vincent Kurita and the younger daughter of the true Coordinator Akira Kurita.” The woman on the transmission said she looked to be around her twenties age wise which fit and looked very similar to her mother when she was around that age from the pictures Hirohito had seen. She wore a scarlet Kimono with her hair tied up in a bun in traditional Japanese style her make up was minimal showing her natural complexion which all fit with traditional Kurita family style as she spoke Hirohito reached for a mobile communicator.
“Are you seeing this?” He demanded as the message continued. “It can’t be her I was told there was not a sign of her anywhere!”
“…I disappeared from the Imperial City and many believed that I had been killed but in fact I was protected from assassins under the hire of Minoru Kurita, the current Warlord’s father, who intended on removing my line of our family to allow his own to gain control.”
“What do you mean Dieron is refusing communications? They cannot ignore us we are New Samarkand I want that woman in chains. Contact our units on other worlds have them communicate with those on Dieron and demand her unconditional surrender. I will be there soon.” As the Warlord rushed to get ready the message continued.
“Hirohito Kurita has continued this trend by imprisoning Akira Kurita and his wife Julia in the Imperial Palace on New Samarkand.” Emiko continued “I have lived and worked with many of you under an assumed identity travelling across our nation as assassins continuously searched for my trail I have seen and felt the suffering that Warlord Hirohito Kurita’s rule has brought on our people. Which has led to my decision today to reveal myself to our people and to announce that the District of Dieron is succeeding from the Draconis Combine until Hirohito stands down from his position as Warlord of this nation and Akira Kurita is released from the Imperial Palace.” She said breathing deeply Hirohito stopped and looked at the screen in complete shock with Benjamin in enemy hands and now this from Dieron she may get exactly what she wanted. “I regret this action deeply but I will not allow our nation to be led by a tyrant I will do all that I can to ensure the Draconis Combine acts for its people. To the best for our nation.” She said finally before the message ended only to be replaced with the logo of the Military District of Dieron three red triangles set in formation forming a larger triangle with several small triangles extending from the base three behind them a yellow field. As an addition to the insignia the camera seemed to pull out showing a stylized Dragon held the insignia in its front paw with the Dragon’s head turned towards the camera.
Immediately following the message by Akira Tormark the Warlord of Dieron announced that he would be fully supporting Empress Emiko Kurita that Dieron would be set up as an independent nation until Hirohito Kurita left the throne on New Samarkand and Akira Kurita was released from custody. He added that all DCMS and DCA units in the District of Dieron had pledged loyalty to Dieron and to Emiko Kurita.
It would not be until the 30th January that Hirohito Kurita responded to the claim by Empress Emiko Kurita the Warlord claimed that she was a fake and that the real Emiko Kurita had died years before a fact that had been hidden from the public to save their nation’s morale. Behind closed doors intelligence officials were unsure of Emiko’s claim but also could not confirm her death from any source. The reason for Hirohito’s delay had been due to the High Command attempting to contact the unit’s and WarShips based in the region of Dieron and receiving not a single reply from these units it appeared the planning behind this had been quite thorough in clearing out those who were not willing to pledge loyalty to Dieron first and the Combine a distant second.
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Wow, just wow.
The long expected SLDF/Clan war is apparently in the offing.
And the balkanizing of the Combine begins - I've been wondering what was going to happen to the Deiron District as it was looking to be cut off from the Combine as the war with the FS continued.
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Wow!! That is an awesome start for the year!
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TC responsible for starting a war between the clans and the SLDF, trust the Taurians.
Civil war in the Draconis Combine.
Well DC you really have surpassed all expections, what a great way to start a new year. >:D :thumbsup:
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oh wow, what an update! The Nova Cats are baring their claws and have the other Clans behind them (no doubt to varying degrees, but the use of Nukes ensured that the Clans WILL stand with the Cats if push came to shove). And lets be honest here, I doubt anyone in the Suns is shedding any tears about the Taurians loosing worlds to some very very irate clanners considering their history.
Also whilst the threat is there, the SLDF and other realms can't really do that much. The Combine appears to be in serious trouble, it lost one prefecture capital to the Dominion and now another has broken away in outright civil war with a seemingly legitimate heir as their leader, and the Suns forces pushing ever deeper into Combine territory. The Dominions probably too busy re-integrating the Vega prefecture into its domain whilst the Ravens are probably keeping an eye on Clan Lynx (Still not sure on that name, you'd think the Gryphons would be mentioned or used but oh well) to really do too much (plus despite their fleet they are still militarily weak and not too unified Politically with their Outworlder civilians and leadership).
The Lyrans have a big Falcon and Wolf shaped problem as do the FWL so really the only force left is the SLDF from the TOTALLY NOT THE HEGEMONY but that might not be enough, especially if the Clans stand together.
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so a quick summary of the TC vrs clan forces, and things getting out of control.
Sterope, Taurian Concordat
Periphery
4th June 3111
Within days of the announcement of the attack and the shipyards destruction the Taurian Government declare all Clan forces as pirate forces and order a nationwide hunt for the Sceptre. Especially as far as we can tell from the writing they never id themselves before causing an Endor event.
Davetal II, Star League Protectorate
Taurian Concordat
9th July 3111
Star League Defence Force gets caught in the crossfire between the Nova Cats and Taurian Concordat as the Nova Cats committing all four clusters of Tau Galaxy along with significant naval assets securing full control over Davetal II and with it the rest of the system ending the lengthy truce which had split the system.
Dicallus, Taurian Concordat
Periphery
19th September 3111
two vehicles twin supernovas rose into mushroom clouds which quickly encompassed the remaining Nova Cats wiping out the First Nova Cat’s Vision Cluster.
Andrey, Tukayyid
Clan Space
1st October 3111
Khan Canin Rosse cried in the council chambers about their forces being taken out by nukes, got the "backing" of the others to declare them dezgra.
Periphery Assaults
Taurian Concordat
28th December 3111
With full WarShip support several Nova Cat Galaxies assault several systems of the Taurian Concordat launching their first wave of their assaults on the Periphery nation. Wiping out the defenders and not allowing to reinforce other positions
Spitz, Taurian Concordat
9th January 3112
Nearly a week ago the First Protectorate Guard, his unit’s sister command, had defended Erod’s Escape from a Clan Nova Cat attack with the use of Nuclear Weapons using such weapons to obliterate one of Clan’s WarShips and the Clan’s incoming DropShips and he was only hearing about it now.
Still not 100% sure what the issue is Nova Cats have using Nukes in Space Combat. And in return the Nova Cats came in and used Orbital Bombardment on a planetwide scale. So they are just like the 1st group of Clanner who kicked things up in the TC, the crew of the Spectre.
The "unified" Clan forces are now backing someone who now going for all out war on his own terms, but doesn't want the otherside to fight on anything but his terms so they loose. Hitting the forces on Spitz for the actions of the forces of Erod’s Escape in defense of their world, shows that Nova Cats want all out war. And I seem to remember Victor wants to still kick clanner tail, hopefully we will find out the SLDF vrs Nova Cats and they can point out it has nothing to do with rest of the clans as the SLDF were engaged already by the NC before their Khan want crying to the council.
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Still not 100% sure what the issue is Nova Cats have using Nukes in Space Combat. And in return the Nova Cats came in and used Orbital Bombardment on a planetwide scale. So they are just like the 1st group of Clanner who kicked things up in the TC, the crew of the Spectre.
Think of it not as "Nukes in Space Combat" but "Nukes At All." Nuke use of any kind is antithetical to the clans - so it was perfectly reasonable (to the clans) to label the Taurians as dezgra - note that its the entire nation, not a specific unit, thus the reason the clan council had to convene on the matter. Orbital bombardment was directly done in response to the use of nukes and wasn't "planetwide" it was against military targets "casualties to the civilian population was minimised;" whether or not that is hyperbole is another issue entirely, but nothing in the post refutes the statement. Now the why is nuke use, even against naval assets so against the clan mindset? Because all the warriors involved have zero chance of their most recent gift-takes to be recovered - all the genetic material is suspect due to the radiation the nuke puts out.
As for your summary of events, it isn't hard to think that the Sceptre were a clan clan warship, all the units it deployed were identifiably clan in origin, that a warship has actually gone rogue is something so generally unexpected that it's hard to get the mind around (heck, it might even still have Raven Alliance markings and ID) - especially in a nation so inwardly focused as the Taurians.
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A little flashback I'm going to leave here... It might go a little way to explaining the Nova Cat's current feelings. I very rarely make a leap in this timeline lots of things that are happening and will happen I've mentioned before...
Glad you guys seem to have enjoyed it, as always feel free to discuss or ask questions I'm working on the next installment
Half-forgotten, half-buried Supply Depot
Astrokaszy, Periphery
5th February 3063
After spending months jumping from system-to-system avoiding Inner Sphere and Periphery forces Clan Nova Cat’s Delta Galaxy under the command of saKhan Karl Devalis arrives in orbit of the pirate world of Astrokaszy with four Nova Cat WarShips in support Delta Galaxy secure spaceborn supremacy in the system quickly and begin scanning for a specific signal. Buried deep in the vaults on Strana Mechty the Nova Cat Khans found something when they were looking at the Periphery near the Inner Sphere as a new home. The desert world Astrokaszy used to be used as a weapon proving ground by the first Star League and so on the world there were hundreds of weapon vaults. One in specific the Nova Cats wanted to find intact and deal with themselves quickly and efficiently.
After six hours of scanning and fending off three attacks by groups of fighters and DropShips the Nova Cats discover what they are looking for. A depot directly below a large pirate encampment although interrogating the depot’s defence systems proves the base is still secure the Nova Cats cannot take the chance that it will remain so. The whole of Delta Galaxy drops on the pirate base, four Elite Clusters of troops go to work annihilating an entire combined arms regiment of troops calling themselves the Order of the Faithful and a Cluster of former Clansmen who had been attracted to the area by the signal and began unearthing the place with the aid of hundreds of slaves. Evacuating the slaves, the Nova Cats pull back to a safe distance while the Lucian Carns, Clan Nova Cat’s second Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser, moved into position. With thunderous destruction and accuracy, the Lucian Carns Naval Lasers cut a path directly to the depots heavily armoured doors. Approaching the door in person saKhan Karl Devalis keyed in the correct code and the doors spring open. Inside they find a Divisions worth of Nighthawk XIX Power Armour (Light) Suits once used by the special forces of the original Star League Defence force while inferior to modern Clan Battle Armour still an impressive haul.
These suits are a bonus but they are not the main target of the Nova Cat excursion with the Nighthawks on dozens of weapons racks are two hundred nuclear warheads each capable of doing massive damage to military or civilian targets. Karl Devalis then orders his troops to initiate ‘Nova Cat General Order 000’ and order that has existed since the Not-Named Clan used a Nuclear weapon to level the Snow Raven Genetic Repository Centuries before.
As the Nova Cats load the weapons on board one of their Overlord-class DropShips an unknown force, at battalion strength, piloting advanced BattleMechs, vehicles and battle armour all painted white attack and try to seize the DropShip. With most of Delta Galaxy securing the Nighthawks and the nuclear weapons saKhan Karl Devalis leads his command Keshik and the 119th Striker Cluster against the force intent on holding the enemy force back the Cluster takes severe damage. When a laser penetrates Devalis’ OmniMech’s head injuring the saKhan, this drives the remains of the 119th Strike Cluster into a frenzy eliminating the entire force with the Clan warriors going out of their way to kill enemy pilots who lay inside their BattleMechs the battle also essentially destroys the remains of the cluster.
Once all warheads are aboard the DropShip and the Nova Cats have loaded all the Nighthawk suits they offer as many of the slaves as possible a chance at a better life, three hundred-and-fifty accept the call joining the Nova Cats as lower castes. The Nova Cat DropShips leave the planet and the entire force heads for the systems sun en route to the jump point saKhan Karl Devalis dies from his wounds onboard the DropShip carrying the nukes, his wish is for his body to be buried aboard the nuclear DropShip.
Three days later near the star the Nova Cats sent it on a course to impact with the star - General Order OOO is the destruction of all Nuclear, Biological and Chemical weapons ever discovered by a Nova Cat force or the elimination of any forces in the possession of such weapons. The one of the Carrack Merchant-class ships that had accompanied Delta Galaxy, the Pathfinder accompanies the vessel to the star where it plans evacuate the crew and shoot down the DropShip burning it and its deadly cargo up in the star.
For six hours the journey goes smoothly then trouble erupts when a Riga-class Frigate enters the system and tries to intercept the DropShip. The Pathfinder although not a proper combat WarShip engages the Frigate trying to buy the DropShip crew time as they gun the engines and try to destroy the DropShip and themselves. The Pathfinder’s delaying action is a futile effort as the vessel is destroyed in a single volley from the Riga’s main guns and the Frigate moves in on the DropShip intent on capturing the vessel and its deadly cargo. Although there is little hope the DropShip crew continue towards the star setting a direct collision course and smashing all controls that could turn the vessel around.
With the superior thrust rating of the WarShip the Riga soon catches the Overlord and marines quickly board the vessel killing the skeleton Nova Cat crew that had remained onboard and detonating charges around the ship engines cutting thrust long enough for the Riga to move in for the capture. Unfortunately, the boarding action and subsequent breaking manoeuvres preformed by the Riga that gave the Lucian Carns time to close in with its massive fighter screen fully deployed the mighty Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser obliterates the Riga in a very one-sided fight which sees the Nova Cat WarShip bombard the ancient Star League-era vessel with naval scale lasers, particle cannons, missiles and autocannons while stars of aerospace fighters swarm the vessel. With the naval threat cleared the Lucian Carns sends the “nuclear” DropShip into Astroskaszy’s star with the enemy marines still aboard destroying the destructive cargo and the would-be thieves.
At its heart the Lucian Carns although transformed into the Anna Rosse-class by the Nova Cats was still an Avatar-class Cruiser that had served the first Star League checking thought records the Nova Cats find the enemy vessel was registered as the Red Angel. Knowing of only ComStar and the Word of Blake to field Star League-era vessels the Nova Cats pass this through the Clan’s communication net and the Clan privately declares the ComGuards and the Word of Blake as Rogue agencies and declares that any Nova Cat force that encounters them is to destroy them on sight. As far as Delta Galaxy survivors are concerned a State of War exists between the Nova Cats and both ComStar and Word of Blake though it would take a full Clan Council meeting for this to become Clan policy.
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Think of it not as "Nukes in Space Combat" but "Nukes At All." Nuke use of any kind is antithetical to the clans - so it was perfectly reasonable (to the clans) to label the Taurians as dezgra - note that its the entire nation, not a specific unit, thus the reason the clan council had to convene on the matter. Orbital bombardment was directly done in response to the use of nukes and wasn't "planetwide" it was against military targets "casualties to the civilian population was minimised;" whether or not that is hyperbole is another issue entirely, but nothing in the post refutes the statement. Now the why is nuke use, even against naval assets so against the clan mindset? Because all the warriors involved have zero chance of their most recent gift-takes to be recovered - all the genetic material is suspect due to the radiation the nuke puts out.
As for your summary of events, it isn't hard to think that the Sceptre were a clan clan warship, all the units it deployed were identifiably clan in origin, that a warship has actually gone rogue is something so generally unexpected that it's hard to get the mind around (heck, it might even still have Raven Alliance markings and ID) - especially in a nation so inwardly focused as the Taurians.
And tell me that the Nova Cats who are operating in and around the TC would not have heard about the Spectre strike on Sterope, Taurian Concordat, and what damaged it caused. And the TC public responce to any and all the clan forces operating hostile in the TC. If not then the WATCH, needs to be replaced.
Rogue Clanners, like really that a thing now, Really??? Especially one using a brand new Clan WARSHIP??? (maybe in some fanboy fanfic :smirk:, but come one we are talking about a real universe here, show me other Rogue Clan Forces running around with a brand new clan warship?)
:rant: :brew: Sorry this time, Nova Cats stuck their paw in and expected an already wounded and pissed off prey to play by NC rules, and then they didn't went crying to the council when the TC engaged them as the Pirates the Spectre Crew showed the what clan forces are currently to the TC, by doing an Endor Style event on a Sterope. The Nova Cats are following up with Orbital Bombardment, just limited to starport and military targets and sure they killed no civilians because their ability to target is just so good :thumbsup:, further show that what Clanners are now. And now the council has backed this so they all agreed that they all now fair game "pirates forces" for TC Vengeance when it comes, and it will come to them, I hope.
The TC, yep sucked a "Pirate" unit on the ground with 2 nukes gifts, but look what proceded it Sterope, 3 months earlier and 2 months after SLDF peacekeeping force was hit, and had to keep moving and not bunching up to avoid Orbital Strikes/Bombardment. So we see that Nova Cats were already pushing to use "Pirate/Rogue" methods before the nukes were used in TC space against them.
And if the clans all feel so bad about nukes in space, Gee they in the wrong here, sorry Nukes have been a legal method of dealing with space forces in universe since Reunification War.
I'm still looking forward to hopefully Victor sending SLDF Ships and Troops to bring this Nova Cat Fight to end. He was still looking to kick clanner tails and well we have Cats for him with tails. >:D
and Dragon Cat it is nice that the Nova Cats have "Rule for WMD" handling on their books, but funny how it doesn't seem included Orbital Bombardment of Targets? Also because we don't know who their were because our warrior killed and destroyed everyone of them from a Combined Arms force, instead of taking prisoners (showing a very pirate way) we think they were either Comstar or WOB troops who we also think were also looking for this very storage locker, so they are now considing ComGuards and the Word of Blake as Rogue agencies, to be shot on sight. Gee this is the Periphery, look at Morrison's Extractors, who had found Star League Mechs, right next door Niops Association they can hand build Star League Mechs. And gee did you all forget that the Wolverines might be still running Star League units, and well Riga could be theirs or something they picked up..
Also if it was Comstar or WOB not somehow got a signal that there was a "Rogue" Clan group here raiding old Star League areas or jumped and and saw it, and maybe we want to see what they wanted so badly to come all the way here. NOPE THEY KNEW ALL ALONG IT WAS NUKES WE WERE HERE TO TAKE, AND WANTED TO TAKE THEM FROM US.
And if this is Nova Cats Real Policy on WMD, then I expect to see them hit FS, CC, FWL, and the rest of the Inner Sphere nations ASAP. Because we all know they have them. General Order OOO is the destruction of all Nuclear, Biological and Chemical weapons ever discovered by a Nova Cat force or the elimination of any forces in the possession of such weapons.
[/i] From Sarna on the Canon Universe but many nations in the Inner Sphere and Periphery periodically refurbish their stockpiles, if only to maintain a secret level of readiness or as a last desperate gambit.
Plus any starship who has a White Shark or Killer Whale or AR-10 launcher has the ability to launch nuclear weapons. So any ship that has them need to be engaged by the Nova Cats to make sure they aren't packing Nukes.
Otherwise lets not try to used this "general order", to further the slaughter of the TC forces, because they are hypocrites, but then again they are Clanners so that a given.
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Epic undertaking
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DOC_Agren I completely respect your points there, I don't actually think you're far wrong.
A couple of things
(maybe in some fanboy fanfic , but come one we are talking about a real universe here, show me other Rogue Clan Forces running around with a brand new clan warship?)
This is a fanboy fanfic I'm not a professional writer I'd love to be but I'm not this is just a hobby. You won't find another Rogue WarShip because it generally doesn't happen which is why this instance is a cool one.
You're absolutely correct the Nova Cat's ARE overreaching but their doing so to prove a point to the other Clans as well as themselves following the Lynx breakaway. This is stirring something in the Nova Cats. Unfortunately the Taurians are the first target.
The Nova Cats are following up with Orbital Bombardment, just limited to starport and military targets and sure they killed no civilians because their ability to target is just so good ,
Again you're not far off it propaganda but propaganda that the Clans will buy even if outside observers will not
I'm still looking forward to hopefully Victor sending SLDF Ships and Troops to bring this Nova Cat Fight to end. He was still looking to kick clanner tails and well we have Cats for him with tails.
You'll hear the SLDF response in a minute
Otherwise lets not try to used this "general order", to further the slaughter of the TC forces, because they are hypocrites, but then again they are Clanners so that a given.
Just because the Nova Cats have been alright until now you got it again they are Clanners
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Intelligence Meetings, Star League High Command
Unity City, North Americal
Terra, Star League Protectorate
4th February 3112
Multiple division commanders and department heads of the Star League Defence Force were sat around a table with Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion looking at the new map of the Draconis Combine and District of Dieron. Unlike his previous appearance as Exarch when he was dressed in businesss wear in this military facility Victor had chosen to wear an SLDF duty uniform today he acted as both the Exarch of the Star League Protectorate and First Lord of the Star League. “An entire District broken away” Victor remarked without a smile “I’m sure my father would have thought this was a just reward for them.” He said quietly he rarely spoke of Hanse Davion in public it was especially rare for him to speak of the legendary Federated Suns leader during his short time in the Star League Protectorate. While he couldn’t show it here his eyes picked out the “Benjamin sailent” the Federated Suns forces had carved out which had probably helped push the Combine to this break and he couldn’t help be pleased with his son’s efforts.
“It is something as unthinkable as the Capellans invading New Syrtis or the Lyrans landing on Marik or Atreus.” One of his commanders remarked
“Or the Clan’s reaching Terra” Victor said bringing focus back to the issue at hand, the defence of Terra and the Star League Protectorate. “Where does this put us?”
“Sir, the Star League Defence Force units on Dieron have declared neutrality and will only act in self defence in any open war conflict between Dieron forces and those from New Samarkand. Despite our as a foreign force within the District I do not think that Dieron will ask us to leave instead I believe we may need to reneigotiate our positon with the District like we did with the Combine.” Victor Focht reported Victor nodded that had been his order as soon as he heard of this latest development his people would not be wittled down in civil wars that was not what his Defence Force had been created for. “Militarily I believe the Eridani Light Horse and the other units we have in Dieron are at less risk than the Star League as a whole may be politically…”
“Go on” Victor said noticing the man’s hesitancy “any of you, if you think it is relevant speak up, I won’t hold your opinions against you unless they conflict with your ability to complete the orders you are given.” He said looking around the room wanting to make himself perfectly clear. “Victor continue”
“Sir, the Draconis Combine is a member state of the Star League Defence Force they provide funds, personnel and equipment to our forces. In return they are afforded support during conflict.” He pointed out “while Dieron has not become a direct threat towards the rule of New Samarkand in a military sense Policially it threatens to bring down the entire Combine…”
“The Star League Charter specifically prohibits SLDF units engaging in conflict with two sides of a Civil War. Star League Membership or not.” Fleet Admiral Anthony Fitzgerald pointed out interrupting Focht caught the Exarch’s eye and noticed him nod for him to continue.
“Yes, Admiral but our problem may come when Dieron attempts to court us for weapons and arms in an effort to build their forces to oppose those of New Samarkand which I think they will unvariably do.” He said looking at Victor “sir, I believe that we cannot entertain these trades. Given the traditional feelings of the Draconis Combine towards the Federated Suns and Lyran Commonwealth I think it is unlikely that Dieron will find support from either of these nations.”
“So other than whatever deal we need to broker to keep the Eridani Light Horse on Dieron the District will be isolated.” Victor Steiner-Davion said rounding out Victor Focht’s analysis.
“I believe so First Lord” Focht noted “their only hope is the Federated Suns are able to hold onto Benjamin which will allow Dieron the time to build up their own defence force.”
“Which I personally think they have a good chance of” General James Topher the head of the Intelligence Division said quietly looking to Victor for a nod to continue which he quickly got. “Sir, if we are to remain neutral between member state border conflicts?” the Exarch again nodded the Star League Defence Force was not strong enough to hold two Succession States apart and did not have the political strength to force them to yield. The only cases where they could interfere was when particular points of suffering were seen on a particular population due to these conflicts and even then it was dicey ground for the Star League which hadn’t been formed to force the Succession States to be peaceful towards each other but instead had been formed to defend against incursions by the Clans.
“Then now that the Draconis Combine have officially surrendered control over Benjamin I do not see how the forces of New Samarkand can hope to reenter, retake and hold Benjamin without sacrificing significant territory elsewhere. And to be brutally honest Benjamin itself is not that critical other worlds are far more important.” He said over the last few days the Federated Suns had officially declared victory over Benjamin and were fortifying their positions on all the worlds of the so called sailent. “Instead I think that New Samarkand will be doing exactly the same as Dieron in the short term building up their forces.”
“Two sides of the same coin” Victor said using the ancient phrase to describe two views of a matter. “What about our other matter?”
“The Taurians and Nova Cats continue to trade blows including the Taurian use of nuclear weapons.” James Topher said “we have received a message from the Clan’s Loremaster which states the Clans will support each other should we attempt another operation such as Serpent.” He explained “it does not rule out mutual support between states nor rule out the SLDF assisting in their defence.”
“Good because they weren’t going to stop us” Victor Focht said
“No, they were not” Victor Steiner-Davion said glancing at a couple of reports “I want the Fourth WarShip Squadron to deploy and head to Taurian space. They can link up with the SLS Mopelia Island at New Syrtis then oppose Nova Cat operations in support of Taurian ground forces.”
“A lot of older designs in that fleet” Admiral Fitzgerald pointed out believing they may take heavier damage against the modern Clan designs in the Nova Cat fleet.
“They are the fastest fleet that can be readied and deployed in a short period of time and they are the closest fleet to Taurian space.” Victor Focht noted. “We can also deploy ground forces to support them as well several brigades can deploy and support the WarShips.”
“Are we likely to get assistance from the Federated Suns?” One said
“To assist the Taurians… I think not” another said
“We will work on convincing the other nations to support it but we need to concentrate on turning back the Nova Cats and proving this alliance is worthwhile.” Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion said “anything else?”
“Two things, sire” the Star League Defence Force’s Protectorate Government Liasion Joseph Kennedy said quietly, he was dark skinned and dressed in a business sute which was in stark contrast to the others in military uniform, Victor forced himself not to roll his eyes at the man’s behaviour he had asked a dozen times for him not to address him as “sire.”
“What is it?”
“The first is public opinion in the Protectorate with the deployment of forces to the Taurian Concordat when there are still enemies at the gate.” Victor looked at his Commanding-General
“The Wolves have not moved from their systems in months nor have the Bears also you can pass to the public that none of the guard regiments will be leaving the Protectorate so defences will not be adversely affected.” Victor Focht answered for the Exarch.
“And the second?”
“Sire, this is more political” he said carefully the SLDF officers technically had no place in this discussion but Victor made no indication he wanted them to leave. “Liao’s government have approached us looking for protection from further Capellan aggression which they believe is only a matter of time before it comes. Our humanitarian units are already on the world assisting in rescue operations but now they have asked for our protection politically and militarily.”
“They do not believe the AFFS are capable of such protection?” Victor Steiner-Davion asked almost offended that Liao didn’t believe they could be protected. How the raiders had reached Liao unopposed was still an unknown but until the method was explained it could likely happen again regardless of the defenders.
“They believe that their world being held by House Davion is bringing more attention to it than is desired.”
“Anyone holding that world other than the Capellan Confederation will gain attention.” Victor Focht commented
“I agree” the Exarch agreed “reject the proposal for now but I’d like to rotate some more Star League assets through the area as a show of force.”
“Transit to Taurian space could be sent through Liao and the neighbouring systems.” Victor Focht suggested it was a direct route through the region. Normally troops would have been sent on a more circular route perhaps through Defiance before heading for Taurian space.
“Agreed other than that we’re stepping on the AFFS toes. I will try to contact Burton, the First Prince, and schedule further units to be rotated through the area.” He said trying not to show that he still had too much influence over Federated Suns matters. “Feed back through your channels that Liao will be protected.
Parade Ground, Tatsuyama City
Dieron, District of Dieron
10th February 3112
In their first public appearance newly, named Empress Emiko Kurita and Warlord Akira Tormark are shown by tri-vid cameras inspecting the BattleMechs, vehicles and Battle armour suits of the newly risen First, Second and Third Dieron Imperial Guard Regiments. While only a little more than a reinforced Mech Battalion and supported armour and Battle armour regiment each in size they were the first step towards Dieron building its own armed forces.
Hours later Emiko Kurita announces the creation of the Azami Prefecture which would give the Azami based in the District of Dieron their own political power as well as religious freedoms in exchange the Empress calls for a reformation of the Arkab armed forces to serve Dieron. A few days later the First Arkab Messengers are formed on Arkab by the end of the year it is planned for six more combined arms units to be formed one on each of the Azami worlds with all maturing to full BattleMech regiments by 3120.
Assault Force
Surcin, Arcturus Theatre
Lyran Commonwealth
28th February 3112
Haumptman Amanita Caplan ducked her Shaman OmniMech to the right avoiding a Clan Long Range Missile salvo her fifty-five ton Mech low enough to the ground so it completely avoided the incoming missiles. She raised the Mech’s right arm and returned fire with the large laser mounted there narrowly missing an incoming Hell’s Horses OmniMech before running on. “This is Scrab One repeat Scrab One” she called out but all she heard was jamming as a fast hovercraft with Hell’s Horses markings shot in front of her firing short range missiles into the Shaman one struck the cockpit throwing Amanita around the cockpit. As she reorientated herself the Shaman’s short-range missile rack achieved a lock and half a dozen missiles bore into the hovercraft as she moved the OmniMech forwards striking out with her OmniMech’s left arm she felt the fist strike the turret before the retractable blade shot out puncturing the cabin killing the crew of the Hepheastus. “That’s for the Guards. This is Scarab One calling command” she called out again as she did autocannon fire raked the back of the arm right to the limb’s shoulder joint shattering it “shit!” She screamed as the arm and the blade were ripped off by her OmniMech’s continued motion. “This is Scarab One Oupost Echo 16 has been overrun by Hell’s Horses troops. I’m all that’s left” she communicated not knoing if anyone else could hear as her Mech moved she fired a laser blast wildly in her defence as a Gauss rifle blast and missiles slammed into the back of the OmniMech.
The Shaman staggered under the hits heading away from the Hepheastus Amanita fighting to continue the keep the OmniMech standing she saw damage to the OmniMech’s gyro but the Shaman’s Heavy-Duty gyro allowed her to ignore it. What she couldn’t ignore was the red marks that were all around her OmniMech. “Scarab One to base Area 16 has fallen, I repeat Hell’s Horses troops control Area 16” she transmitted as another salvo of weapons fire cut into her OmniMech striking the SRM storage container even as the CASE system saved the Shaman from total destruction Amanita felt it begin to fall and triggered the eject system. Unfortunately, the system sent her command chair through the air backwards towards the outpost into Hell’s Horses territory and into Amanita’s new life as a bondsman of Clan Hell’s Horses.
Elsewhere on Surcin and nearby Garrison the Hell’s Horses launched joint assaults on the Third Arcturan Guards RCT, the militia and mercenaries that supported them. The elite Regimental Combat Team fought bravely on both worlds but they had little chance and were forced into retreat with the aerospace wing and escorting assault DropShips destroyed by Hell’s Horses WarShips as the unit retreated. These assaults further isolate the contested Odessa system and threaten Arcturus with capture by the Clans.
The Shaman OmniMech is from here
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=61091.0 (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=61091.0)
Hopefully Empyrus doesn't mind the borrow
And I messed up I should have never used Victor Focht having two Victors in a room is a bloody nightmare
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The only thing worse than 2 victors in a room are a lance of victors in a room. ::)
Azami gaining more freedom, interesting.
The SL joining the Taurians, in this one I'm supporting the Nova Cats. :beer:
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Very fine line the Star League walking.
Action pack update for certain!
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DOC_Agren I completely respect your points there, I don't actually think you're far wrong.
A couple of things
(maybe in some fanboy fanfic , but come one we are talking about a real universe here, show me other Rogue Clan Forces running around with a brand new clan warship?)
This is a fanboy fanfic I'm not a professional writer I'd love to be but I'm not this is just a hobby. You won't find another Rogue WarShip because it generally doesn't happen which is why this instance is a cool one.
Dragon Cat, I honestly consider this a "Real Universe" here, because things "work" and it basicly realist manner present here. That why I made the point that a seperate color so that it stood out. Because it was meant to show that the TC had no reason to even assume that Spectre wasn't a Clan/Pirate force invading/raiding TC space that did the deed.
You're absolutely correct the Nova Cat's ARE overreaching but their doing so to prove a point to the other Clans as well as themselves following the Lynx breakaway. This is stirring something in the Nova Cats. Unfortunately the Taurians are the first target.
Again you're not far off it propaganda but propaganda that the Clans will buy even if outside observers will not
Really that the Clans are accepting this, shows when TC can bring the Vengeance, they all accepted their fate. Seeing how they don't see that they are supporting NC who are now looking to do a nationwide version of Turtle Bay Massacre to the TC.
You'll hear the SLDF response in a minute
I saw :thumbsup:
Just because the Nova Cats have been alright until now you got it again they are Clanners
Thanks Dragon Cat for taking the time to answer most of my points, most people who talk to the god of the universe are considered touch, so I am now. >:D
But could I ask if Nova Cats really have Real Policy on WMD ie-General Order OOO is the destruction of all Nuclear, Biological and Chemical weapons, then how come they have not hit FS, CC, FWL, and the rest of the Inner Sphere nations weapon storage sites. Because we all know they have them.
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Thanks Dragon Cat for taking the time to answer most of my points, most people who talk to the god of the universe are considered touch, so I am now. >:D
But could I ask if Nova Cats really have Real Policy on WMD ie-General Order OOO is the destruction of all Nuclear, Biological and Chemical weapons ever discovered by a Nova Cat force, then how come they have not hit FS, CC, FWL, and the rest of the Inner Sphere nations weapon storage sites. Because we all know they have them.
Added blue note for clarity of the order. Really it comes down to the size and proclivity to use the weapons. The major powers have way too many worlds or way too much space to adequately survey - this also functions as a way to politically say they can't find them. The Taurians used them, were pretty much a bordering nation (and they definitely are now), there's no way they could ignore this given General Order 000.
That they don't target the Capellans - who have also shown a proclivity to use nukes - is likely due to a combination of knowing they would suffer horrendous losses in the offing and simple distance, logistics make it difficult to push their claims in a reasonable manner.
Perhaps surprisingly, the Ravens are also a potential target for this order, though they could get around it on technicalities - they may, or may not have, used anti-matter mines in their most recent conflict with the Combine (I left the details of what they actually were to DC). The Combine suspects this but has incomplete sensor data, and Gerry Harper of the Sceptre probably knows what was used. As for the technicalities (if it was anti-matter), anti-matter aren't NBC weapons (worse though they are) and they weren't used directly against warships, but rather were used in a supporting role.
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Well to clarify completely General Order OOO is the destruction of all Nuclear, Biological and Chemical weapons ever discovered by a Nova Cat forceor the elimination of any forces in the possession of such weapons.
It that last part which if the Nova Cats really believe it a true function for them and the fact they went all the way to Astrokaszy to find some that might or might not still have been there, that this is real. Not hitting known fleet bases, where you could expect to find them, or as you say the CC. CC is nothng to get to if you can get to Astrokaszy. Proper fleet used could quickly secure spaceborn supremacy, allowing them to hit and secure target zones and maybe get away as clean as they did from Astrokaszy. Plus what the CC going to do jump across the FS to get payback and the FS not say BOO to the force?
Nope real reason that I can see is, this just show how they are hypocrites about the General Order OOO, unless it to their benefit to justify mindless slaughter of someone. See the force on Astrokaszy who they slaughtered completely with no prisoners, but then the Clan privately declares the ComGuards and the Word of Blake as Rogue agencies and declares that any Nova Cat force that encounters them is to destroy them on sight.
Speaking of which, where have I missed Nova Cat's engaging Comstar forces?
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Before reading my post, warning! It got away from me about zellbrigen to how certain Clans have been dealt with by others. None of this is information from Dragon Cat, but rather my own thoughts based on the timeline so far. Hope you enjoy! :D
Also worth mentioning each Clan operates their own zellbrigen differently from other Clans. That leaves a LOT of wiggle room for each Clan to determine what actually is WMD and exactly when they can be deployed against another. Look into the Warden and Crusader field manuals and the Wars of Reeving a bit closely and youll see some short sentences about each Clan having a small stockpile of their own, usually nerve gases or Nukes, but none touch them after the Wolverine debacle until the War of Reeving where the Clans (usually Society cells) pulled them out of stoarage and used them against their Clan enemies. Likely written into Clan Law by Kerensky himself come to think about it.
Also, certain Clans are confirmed at actually having them in story ittl. Among the active Clans, Clans Blood Spirit, Coyote, Fire Mandrill and Stone Spirit are all confirmed at having them sometime in the recent past or at least VERY highly suspected due to certain issues, and many a Dead Clan used them. I will list only the active Clans right now though. Clan Blood Spirit used them against the Star Adders and Steel Vipers on York (Orbital Bombardment against their own Civilians and Warrior Caste elements of both latter Clans) that made the other Clans declare both them and their descendants dezgra, Coyote (via their Society cells made the otl War of Reeving look like a mere temper tantrum and inadvertently making the Society the Clans bogyman), and finally the Mandrills (their own Kindraa used Nerve Gas and Nukes against each other at the start of their exodus from the Homeworlds and then using Nukes against Warships).
Of these confirmed, let's look at what it cost them shall we? Clan Blood Spirit until relatively recently was not known to have survived, but whose name caused other Clans to spit in disgust over its actions against Clan Star Adder, yet is leading the fight back home in the Homeworlds, an action that MIGHT be able to get them in the good graces of the Council once again, should it ever become known to the United Clans Council.
Clan Stone Spirit behaves like the rebellious child of the bunch, not caring for what the United Clans Council thinks of them, nor of their actions. They stay out of the United Clans Council's way and vise versa for the most part. A standing, though very quiet agreement between them and Clan Fire Mandrill/Rim Collection allows each a Live Fire opponent.
Clan Coyote is the LUCKIEST clan, in my humble opinion. They avoided a Trial of Absorption not once, but TWICE, in the story. The first when they secretly moved into the Inner Sphere and then covered the Wolves move, though I admit that call was more or less a mere formality. The latter one, though, well...we all know how that one went down. A lone Nova Cat Khan giving an impassioned speech and the Khan of the nominally dezgra Mountain Wolves being the first to answer that call for aid shaming the other Clans into allowing the Trickster Clan to still live, all by reminding them of how far and how many Clans have fallen. The Trickster was said to have many lives, but I think its safe to say the Coyotes spent nearly all they had remaining to crawl out of that particular Grand Council meeting still in one piece.
And then there is Clan Fire Mandrill. Caught in the middle of TTL's War of Reeving, its separate Kindraa effectively turned against each other as Kindraa Sainze and Mick-Kreese turned against Kindraa Faraday-Tanaga and Mattila-Carrol, using nerve gas and nukes to effectively destroy the latter and forcing the former out of the Homeworlds. Then that particular Kindraa had to spam nukes against the Sainze warships when the Sainze followed to merely survive. Then once on All Dawn, with the Mandrills fighting for their very future against a surprise attack by the Lyrans, to quickly get reinforcements groundside, they made a show of force that included nukes in space. Then later, in another short-term war against the Lyrans, a nuclear meltdown CONVENIENTLY occured (we know that is true, but the Lyrans likely think it was just a cover story to destroy the facility while not being painted as nuke happy). Later, with again a nuclear attack (this time on them and yes again we know its true), Clan Fire Mandrill conveniently comes waving Society prisoners to the other Clans and reminding them of the Serpents VERY recent transgressions while peacefully absorbing the Sphinx Raptors (Serpent descendants) in their entirety. That distraction and the fact the Mandrills were never officially declared dezgra, and did fight its way to the Inner Sphere conveniently allowed the Sea Foxes to argue they technically survived the Trial of Absorption issued by a now-deceased ilKhan. End of this meeting allowed Clan Fire Mandrill to resume its ties with the other Clans, albeit very reluctatantly. Then, with its forces boldly in Clan Space (United Clans Council capital planet no less) after a bold smash and grab raid, a missing Fire Mandrill technician is recovered, reminding everyone of the Clans Bogymen, again conveniently distracting the Clans, this time the Coyotes get targeted. Afterwards, with restricted Clan-tech slowly appearing where it shouldnt (Inner Sphere powers), the Clans all look at the Mandrills, who do acknowledge they were the ones, but on a technicality, are allowed to do so due to being the inferior power within the Rim Collection. The Mandrills escaped what COULD have been a big issue with a mild slap on the wrist as the other Clans have now accepted the Clans needed to remain together.
End result of the above for the Mandrills: The Mandrills having little political power within the United Clans Council due to being looked down upon for their "Inferior" status status within the Rim Collection (ie being an equal member within the Collection as a whole) and their willingness to use Nukes, even if only against Warships. But a useful power in Clan Society as unlike most other Clans they do have more back channels to Inner Sphere powers and has become a Neutral power within Clan Society.
Now why did I do all the above? Well, these Clans were the ones caught with nukes and WMD or (for Coyotes) the Clans know the Society begun and were a powerful force within the Coyote Clan all the way up until the Clans forcibly removed the Vermin and arent about to forget that. All of the above paid for being caught in some way, shape, or form, and have dealt with it differently. And interesting, the results are ironic. Clans Blood Spirit and Stone Spirit, parent/child Clans, are very different in how they handle themselves. Blood Spirit was long the one Clan fighting back against the Society in the Homeworlds, intent to show itself it still is true to the Clan Way even if no other Clan knows about it; while the latter spitefully calls itself a Clan while not caring one bit about protecting its status as one, ignoring most other Clans in the process while at the same time declaring for all to see, as a rebellious child would want to do. The Coyotes, bold before, now careful and weary of overstepping itself, attempting to reestablish its identity as the honorbound Clan, all while not overreaching against other Clans, instead targeting the Lyrans when it convenient. Clan Fire Mandrill, meanwhile, treaded carefully after fighting its way out out of the Homeworlds and then against the Lyrans, and against all odds survived, but at the cost of what most Clans care most about; their pride and walking away from the Clan way where the strong rule.
So what does that mean to the other Clans? Effectively and collectively, they (together with the fallen Clans) serve as an object lesson to the other Clans as to why the Clans just dont use nukes/WMD/covort with extremists in the first place. The first two are dezgra, while the latter two lost their pride as Clans. Two (Clans Blood Spirit and Coyote) struggle to show themselves worthy while the other two (Clans Stone Spirit and Fire Mandrill) have truthfully lost their way. Yet each found renewed purpose as well.
Clan Blood Spirit, their redemption. Clan Stone Spirit, acknowledgment. Coyote, honor. Fire Mandrill, their pride.
Again, sorry for the massive post. This did get away from me.
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The Clans sense of honour is dumb as all hell and up there with the Klingons IE
"We are honourable noble warriors!"
"So..why do you attack from ambush using your cloaks? Why not declare yourself and your intentions like the honourable warriors you profess to be?"
"FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF..."
And they are more than willing to make a lot of things that they'd call dishonourable, suddenly be honourable when the mood or need suits them because they are massive hypocrits :D
But its one of the things that makes the Clans so unique and their honour (and hypocrasy) is part of them as much as their Mech's or Aff and Neg :) As James Tanaga said the Clans tend to leave themselves a LOT of wiggle room when it comes to stuff that might be considered dishonourable and it all depends on the Clan and then gets further muddied by the circumstances as well as the Commander on the ground who makes the call to use a WMD.
For the most part I doubt a Clan would really employ a WMD against another Clan unless it was an act of survival (IE the Reavings) and even then its in the most extreme of cases. But against others, I think the thing holding them back is a case of "If we use 'em, so will they." Combine this with the deeply ingrained mindset from the Homeworlds where every resource was valuable and nukes would tarnish them, dress it up with a flimsy dressing of honour (far too bland with way too much salt) and call it done :)
In this universe we've got the Clans in the Inner Sphere who have changed considerably from what they were. The Ravens are more integrated into the Outworlds Alliance, the Falcons are if anything true to what they were originally, now with some Smoke Jag flavorings, but without going into full blown Malvina Hazen territory (although I get the feeling of an unsaid '...yet' there). The Wolves are kind of similar to OTL's Wolf Empire, its just in a different place, the Dominion is a Great House at this point in all but name whilst the Horses are also integrating with their civilian populace. The Nova Cats are still probably the Most Clan of the Clans left and the admittedly lesser Clans like the Mandrils and others are just trying to survive.
The 'Yotes were probably not absorbed or even Annihilated because the other Clans of the Unified Council viewed themselves as being the last descendents of Kerensky and to remove the 'yotes would make them even fewer, but you can bet that the 'yotes are being very closely watched, and if there's any more...'shenanigans' from them, I doubt they would survive the Councils fury.
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Thank you James for pointing WMD used by fellow Clanners and showing that Nova Cats didn't really care about it.
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I personally think the Clans do care about it, but it's more that they don't want to lose yet another Clan combined with being pragmatic about it. It is why the Coyotes still have Clan Watch all over their backyard even though the Society Vermin have been removed for a couple years now, why Clan Fire Mandrill remains very careful where they tread in the Council.
It all comes down to Clan culture. To them, WMD is TABOO. Yes they have them, but just dont touch the stuff. Why do they have them? Well, it would be a stupid idea to get rid of them only for an unknown power or say IS power to get the drop on that and well, no more Clans. They have them for the sole reason the IS powers have them. Deterrence.
That's probably why the Cats are so up in arms and the other Clans are nodding in their direction. The TC fought the Cats believing the Cats would react the same way as a proper IS power would: shake their heads, decry the use of Nukes against an appropriate military target, be mad at them for a bit, and then go back to business as usual. The Cats didn't do this. Why? Because to nearly every Clan out there, (discounting Mandrills and Stone Spirits) you DONT use WMD unless you have no other choice. Not "your clan is about to be absorbed" but rather "our entire culture is about to die".
However, I am a bit surprised the Nova Cats didn't see it coming either. Because this is the TC we're talking about. The one periphery power that pretty much the entire SLDF at its HEIGHT didn't want to get too entangled with. Why? Because this power SPAMS nukes. And they're honest about it.
To be fair, the Nova Cats haven't declared a Trial of Annihilation against the TC. Merely declared them dezgra and their intent to force the TC to behave honorably or else. Sadly, the TC is in the end going to just squint at the Cats, shrug, and spam nukes like in the old days if the Cats push to much. Whether that starts a war between the SLDF and the Clans, who can say? One thing I know is I HOPE there's enough popcorn! :thumbsup:
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Random question for no reason at all, who's the Horse Khan at this point?
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I do as side note, that doesn't Khan know his grand children are running around in the TC Capital?
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A lot to get through so here goes
DOC_Argen - I'm glad you consider this to be a real universe. A lot of work has gone into it from me and others and while it is still my vision it wouldn't be where it is without these contributions
I hate revealing future information but it won't be nationwide Turtle Bay for Taurians
General Order 000 is real the Nova Cat interpretation is weapons they can prove and are used against them. The Taurians pulled a trigger they expected to be pulled and now the Nova Cats are venting on them (It's almost an Ice Hellion type operation)
The Nova Cats engaged Comstar several times when first in what is now Nova Cats Den but Comstar are long since defunct so it doesn't matter
Vition few understand exactly what the Ravens did and that includes them the warriors didn't like the surprise effects and are unlikely to intentionally employ again
James Tanaga not one of the Clans has survived this TL with their ideals intact all have made compromises and are like to commit other's. Your information highlights the worse offenders but none would stand to Aleksandr Kerensky scrutiny which makes sense things change
WMDs are taboo hence Nova Cat reaction a swift kick normally makes them see sense like most cats
Don't forget the popcorn you'll need it
Marauder you're right about the clan hipocricy they change like the wind you're analysis isn't far off but I'd disagree with the Nova Cats they are in almost Dominion levels of state and stance now. The Coyotes are still figuring out who the hell they are
Horse Khan is Teresa Cooper I think
Wrangler yes he does but travel from Tukayyid allowed other's to take a lead
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Thanks for taking time to answer my question. The alternate universe is far more balanced to me than the canon universe, but maybe it will change.
Thanks again, Dragoncat!
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To hell with WMD, the Horses will take it the old fashion way, by Boots on the ground! Be it Mech, QuadVee, Proto or straight up Infantry, augmented or not!
CHH for DC's Altverse ilClan!
TT
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Quadvee haven't been introduced yet right?
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Quadvee haven't been introduced yet right?
Funny you should mention that... for..you know..no reason..*coughs*
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Quadvee haven't been introduced yet right?
Nope still too early
Funny you should mention that... for..you know..no reason..*coughs*
But always welcome
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I can dream, can't I?
* Dreams of assualt Quadvees in motion... *
TT
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I can dream, can't I?
* Dreams of assualt Quadvees in motion... *
TT
I got ya fam
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=59163.msg1359572#msg1359572
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=59167.msg1359692#msg1359692
With art :D
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Quadvee haven't been introduced yet right?
I hope they never appear in this timeline. I have no love for these faux Transformers.
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Oh lord.... That brings me back to my Rifts days...
CS Spider Scout and Borg support with a Quebec GB on overwatch! Just needing some SAMAS air support to complete the scene!
Afreet BA and standard Toads, the Phaeton Quadvees with a Pack Hunter II 4 in overwatch!
Yeah, I still think in Rifts on BT... ::)
TT
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Is that a good thing? I dunno what RIFTS is :s
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https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rifts_(role-playing_game) (https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rifts_(role-playing_game))
This is the wiki pretty good from what I remember
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Is that a good thing? I dunno what RIFTS is :s
Honestly, I would say it was a power gamers wet dream. The average PC is running around in Armor that equal to a modern tank, and carrying small arms that also equal it's firepower.
That being said a friend did "move over" his Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Kung Fu Mongoose, to Rifts and became a Juicer, was interesting...
Dragon Cat thanks for answering me.. See I'm ;D talking to god and he is :thumbsup: talking back.
And I will say again if the Nova Cats didn't know how the TC would respond, then their whole WATCH needs to be replaced. They declared publicly before the Nova Cat got their paw sunburnt, all clan forces were to be treated like the pirates they are, because of the Spectre actions. Almost like the Nova Cats want this war to show their muscles and seize a good chunk of the TC, after breaking the military.
Now if I was the TDF not only would I be breaking out the Nukes, and keeping the all ready birds armed. But I would be considering deploying Radium Sniper Rifle and anything else I have in small packets to TMI Special Task Groups and if the Nova Cat keep up their operational hits, deploy them to all clan "safe" spaces and start show them what total war that they all support means to them personally.
As the Nova Cats sow with your blessings in the TC, so shall you all reap
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Honestly, I would say it was a power gamers wet dream. The average PC is running around in Armor that equal to a modern tank, and carrying small arms that also equal it's firepower.
Your forgetting that the alien-ish D-bee stalking you can probably regenerate faster than you can dish out damage a turn! And you can't, so you'd need backup.... Hence magic users or augmented friends even if your a human supremacist and think those are a mutation that needs putting down!
TT
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Battle site
Junction, Proserpina PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
3rd March 3112
Running his Fusilier Battle Armour Suit forwards taking sniper shots against with the suits mugshot gauss rifle while the over shoulder machine gun churned out bullets keeping the DCMS units off position. From inside the suit Leftenant Duncan Sandoval could see the icons of the rest of his squad and the platoon around them moving and holding the ground around them. As they moved forwards Duncan saw conventional troopers, which made up the bulk of the DCMS raiding force, aiming their conventional weapons on the Battle Armour suits and smiled as he aimed his mugshot again at one of the DCMS BattleMechs while tagging several of the DCMS troopers with his suit's over shoulder gun. As he concentrated on hitting the BattleMech along with his squad their machine guns pinned down more than a platoon of conventional infantry their own weapons ineffectual against the AFFS Battle Armour.
Two days before the Draconis Combine had launched an assault on Ludwig and Junction intent on cutting off the Federated Suns’ Benjamin Salient and cutting off the First Prince who was reportedly still on the recently captured Benjamin. Duncan Sandoval and the other members of the Third Robinson Rangers RCT fighting alongside the Federated Freemen Mercenary Command were intent on holding the world against all adversaries.
In battle Sandoval’s Fusilier squad continued to target Combine Mechs while their machine guns sprayed infantry positions with weapons fire. The Fusilier was a slow Battle Armour suit on the ground and while it was jump capable to do so would have taken them beyond the infantry forces. “This is Percival One to Anvil” Sandoval communicated having an idea as he watched the fight happen in front of him.
“Go ahead”
“Sir, the infantry is slowing our progress, DCMS BattleMechs are falling back out of range and we’re going to be subject to long range fire.” He said continuing his fire.
“We don’t have an option. If you are out-ranged by BattleMechs fall back.”
“But that will allow the infantry to hold our offensive, sir” Duncan said looking at his suit’s mini-map which displayed what was happening around him. With his eyes Duncan drew in movements with the units in his local area and sent them to his Company Commander “Anvil” around him his squad and the other squads covered his inactivity shielding him from fire.
“That’s a risky plan, Percival” his company commander said she was obviously aware of who he was and what it would mean to her career if she got a member of the Sandoval family killed.
“Yes, it is, think you can do it?”
“Yes mam” he responded moments later a communication was passed between the units and quickly they were linked into his suit’s command processor. “Thank you” he said quickly communicating his orders the units adjusted to their new command structure and signalled they were ready. “All unit’s this is Percival” he said looking at the map one last time it was going to work “execute orders” he commanded launching his own suit into the air around him the other Fusilier’s did the same taking them over the infantry’s position. “Continue long range fire on the Mech’s keep them honest. Have support guns cover the infantry” he said each of the twenty Fusiliers kept firing long range shots at the Mechs while their shoulder guns covered the infantry. “Hovercraft move up use your short-range stuff to keep that infantry force down and target the Mechs.” He said walking his suit forwards slowly the enemy BattleMechs had realized they couldn’t escape by walking out of here and were now turning back to fight but they were taking heavier and heavier fire. “Percival to Brackon they’ve taken the bait.”
“Understood, hold position” their commander commanded for a group of infantry and hovercraft now came the dangerous point. Neither the Battle Armour nor the hovercraft supporting them had the power or counter the incoming BattleMechs instead all they could do was hope they’d hold until the AFFS trap was sprung. To Duncan Sandoval’s left the ground exploded as an autocannon barrage landed nearby he knew he wouldn’t survive a direct hit from one of those and launched the Fusilier into the air.
“Keep moving” he commanded the troops around him watching as a hover tank took a direct hit to the front from a gauss rifle and he saw the armour peel open like a it had been hit with a sardine can taking it out of the fight. “We need support” he said blasting away at the enemy Mechs as even more entered the area. “Under heavy fire Draconis Combine forces concentrating in our sector” he called out as a light particle cannon fired by one of the Draconis Combine Mechs slammed into his torso shredding the armour on the Fusilier suit. “Additional enemy units all units begin to fall back…” he transmitted it was the last part of their trap and his words indicated to everyone that the DCMS had committed more people than they could handle. From both sides of the Combine force AFFS BattleMechs and heavy armour began to move in catching the Combine units in a hellish crossfire ripping them to pieces.
As it became a BattleMech battle Duncan Sandoval made his way back towards the area where he had left the DCMS infantry pinned down by the armour to take them into custody. As he approached the area Duncan saw the hellish sight that he had left behind with over one hundred bodies in DCMS camouflage. In the coming days he discovered that one of the troopers had produced a inferno equipped short range missile launcher and had blown up one of the AFFS tanks. The armour’s response to their allies being burnt alive was for the armour to open fire and kill every member of the remaining infantry force. It had been a decision that he had made and that Duncan would now have to live with.
With their BattleMech forces decimated in the attack the remaining DCMS forces had little chance of holding their positions instead they rapidly fell back over the following days before leaving the planet in AFFS hands.
Border Raids
Capellan March, Federated Suns
19th March 3112
With the Federated Suns still distracted with the Draconis Combine the Capellan Confederation launch assaults on bordering systems disrupting Federated Suns defences and transit through the systems. These attacks cause SLDF units transiting to the Taurian Concordat to detour around the Confederation/Suns border.
The majority of the raids are knocked aside by AFFS defenders and their mercenary support but the Capellan Confederation units are able to wrest control over Yunnah and Palos from Federated Suns control by the end of the month.
In response to the attacks the First Kathil Uhlans launch their own spoiler raids on the Capellan Confederation supported by the WarShips FSS Fire Fang, FSS Silver Shield and FSS Comet striking at the systems of Elnath and Old Kentucky before the end of the month before disappearing in Capellan space.
Clan Landings
Bjarred, Bjarred Prefecture
Military District of Pesht, Draconis Combine
24th March 3112
Stepping clear of the Overlord C-class DropShip Khan Katrine Devalis the leader of Clan Lynx walked the short distance between her landing zone and the meeting with her Cluster Commanders. “Good Evening, against us are the Second Sword of Light Regiment of the Draconis Combine it is one of their most best equipped units.” She said greeting the other who stood around her she had brought together her best four Clusters to conquer this backwater world. “The commander that wins this battle will become my new saKhan. The cut off bid is three clusters.”
“I will take this planet with all four of our Clusters and the aerospace fighters from our WarShip. Minus the three other cluster commanders present.” Star Colonel Tyler West the hulking Elemental said looking down on the other three leaders he was the commander of the 201st Nova Cat Roar Cluster of Katrine’s own Galaxy a very experienced officer but he was cautious compared to the others.
“I will take this planet with three Clusters, two trinaries and the aerospace force.” Chelsea Drummond of the Seventh Nova Cat’s Roar Cluster said.
“Three clusters and aerospace support” Stewart Bravos the commander of the 65th Nova Cat’s Roar Cluster said.
“Three clusters” Gerard Nova Cat said he was the only one present who did not have a Bloodname and he was the commander of the Fifth Nova Cat’s Roar Cluster.
“And aerospace support quiaff?” Khan Katrine Devalis queried.
“Neg, I bid those away also, the internal support of the Clusters will be enough. I bid the Two Hundred-and-first, the Sixty-Fifth and the Seventh. I will command the Seventh.” He said removing the Khan’s own Upsilon Keshik from the battle roll not only was it the most experienced unit present it also would deny Khan Devalis a chance of honour in the battle curiously he had also removed his own Cluster from the battle roll. This would put him with people he had not fought with and without the best unit the Lynx Clan had on offer on the planet.
“It cannot be done” West said
“Aff agreed, you need the Keshik to counter the best that the Second Sword have on offer” Bavros agreed
“I withdraw from the bidding” Chelsea Drummond stated “I request to join the battle roll under Gerard Nova Cat’s Command.” She said surprising the others. Following her statement of support neither of the others spoke unwilling to go below the cut off for the trial.
“It appears you will command this Trial Star Colonel do not fail us” Khan Katrine Devalis said Gerard Nova Cat nodded as the Khan, West and Bavros left.
“Why support me?”
“After this battle those that survive will be in line for promotions. I wish to command our Clan’s naval forces and have a chance to become the first Oathmaster of our Clan.”
“Ambitious goals but why support me?”
“Because you are stupid enough that you may actually win this battle. I wish to support you in this challenge.”
“Fine, key to the success of this battle will be the aerospace forces, we all saw that was our advantage against the Draconis Combine forces.”
“Which is why you bid away your own Cluster, it has no aerospace forces.”
“Aff, I wish for you to command the combined aerospace forces at our disposal cull them from all three clusters and put them together in one unit. I want you to eliminate the Combine LAM force as your first priority which will cut the Combine’s wings.”
“They have conventional fighter squadrons based on Bjarred, at least three” she warned
“They are not a concern against aerospace fighter squadrons but they will be your second target.” He explained to her showing he had considered them. “I will take our ground forces against the Sword of Light and challenge them to an open battle the samuri will not be able to stand down to an open fight.”
“And if your forces are fighting honour battles in one battle you do not need Cluster commanders to command independent operations. These are veteran MechWarriors of the Combine they will not fall easily.” She warned him
“Neg they will not” he admitted “but their units tend to fight stand up battles per regimental lines. They are more like Clansmen than they like to admit. We will challenge their BattleMechs to battles which will isolate them from their support units until it is too late.”
“Too late? They still outnumber you.”
“Not once you have dealt with the LAM force and the conventional fighters. Following those actions you will conduct bombing attacks on their unchallenged units throwing their support lines into chaos.”
“And if they have ground defences against aerospace forces?”
“You may engage them.”
---
Hours later Clan Lynx were involved in an open battle as planned by Gerard Nova Cat they were taking losses but the superior Clan technology was making up for the numbers against them. In the air Star Colonel Chelsea Drummond had successfully wiped out the LAM unit and the conventional fighters and they were now making their way through the Anti-Air units in Combine unit unfortunately they were taking heavier losses against the heavier numbers of the ground forces. Commanding from his Warhawk OmniMech Gerard Nova Cat could see the battle slowly turning against them and he had to make a move. “Star Colonel Gerard to Khan Devalis”
“Star Colonel, go ahead”
“My Khan, I plan to win this trial but I wish to recall my last bid from the original bid, two aerospace stars from the Santin West configured for ground support” he said targeting an enemy BattleMech with two particle cannons.
“Those fighters were being reconfigured for aerospace fighting.”
“I know that two Stars are still configured for ground support.” He said triggering his OmniMechs taking down the enemy Shadow Hawk.
“You will lose honour for this today” Devalis warned “and will likely face a Circle of Equals for this.”
“I understand and I will win these battles.”
“The fighters are on their way use them well.”
“Affirmative” Gerard answered switching channels “Star Colonel Drummond reinforcements are on their way use them wisely.” He commanded as his Warhawk was rocked by a tightly grouped long range missile salvo. A second salvo quickly followed slamming into the OmniMech’s right torso. He quickly lined up another shot this time on a Combine Black Hawk KU OmniMech which weighed in at half the size of the Warhawk and carried half the firepower but none of it was LRMs. Gerard quickly switched frequencies to a general Lynx frequency all units they have begun to concentrate fire, fire at will.” He commanded instead of targeting individual warriors the Lynx warriors now opened up on multiple different units concentrating fire while the aerospace fighters also now targeted the enemy BattleMechs.
From all sides the Sword of Light was under fire with multiple downed BattleMechs and knocked out armoured vehicles in quick succession. The Sword of Light fell back rapidly pulling away from the battle. Gerard slowed his Warhawk to a walk keeping his weapons on enemy targets but silent. “Clan Lynx hold position.” He said switching frequencies again to general military channel. “Sword of Light surrender this battle and we may be able to allow you to survive today. Continue to fight and we will destroy you.”
“We will not surrender, for the Combine” the female voice responded the Combine forces then turned and returned to battle their formation restored.
“You cannot win.” He broadcast again “but we will honour you with a warrior’s death.” He said from all sides the Lynx warriors poured fire on the remaining Sword of Light warriors with air superiority as well the Combine warriors stood little chance. Gerard was impressed with their discipline, as they took more weapons fire from all sides the Sword of Light warriors pulled more together holding up under the enemy fire pushing further and further into the Lynx lines taking many of the Clan warriors with them.
Today Clan Lynx were victorious but at a cost of nearly two Clusters. Khan Katrine Devalis commanded that the three Clusters that had fought in the battle be retained on the rolls of Clan Lynx but they were more paper than flesh, blood and steel. Following the battle Gerard Nova Cat was challenged three times by other Lynx Star Colonels for the position of saKhan but he bested them all. He then went onto win a Trial of Bloodrite at the end of May to become saKhan Gerard Bedford the first of a reborn Bloodline which Clan Lynx had adopted from the records of Clan Nova Cat. With Clan scientists mixing Gerard’s blood, and others who had won Trials, with those of the Bedford line held in cryo-genetic storage to create a new Bloodhouse unique to Clan Lynx.
Within days of his appointment Gerard Bedford championed Star Colonel Chealsea Drummond to the position of Oathmaster of the Lynx Clan. After several successful Trials of Position she also became Star Admiral and commander of the Lynx naval forces.
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What did the group that splintered off the Nova Cats call themselves? Clan Lynx? Nevermind, I see it now
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Wow, that was bit of abstract battle. I'm disappointed we didn't get more details. LAMs getting wiped out was major downer for me. :(
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Wow, that was bit of abstract battle. I'm disappointed we didn't get more details. LAMs getting wiped out was major downer for me. :(
I have to agree, properly used LAMs vrs Aerospace fighters, should be more like jet fighters vrs helicopters.. You might win but it should be a hell of a battle.
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Which SOL regiment did Clan Lynx fight.
In the first paragraph you mentioned the 2nd but later on you mentioned the 1st sword.
The odds are 50/50 that it is one of the 2. :thumbsup:
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Excellent stuff as always, the Combine's really taking a kicking and now wracked with Civil war it risks being at the centre of a feeding frenzy if the Bears and Ravens sense weakness. The Bears might not take advantage of it but the Ravens...and to keep the Lynx from their door even if I recall the two are at least trading and taking with one another with the Ravens supplying WarShip yards for repairs/refits for the Lynx's.
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Wrangler I wanted to introduce more characters rather than the battle there is a couple of big battle pieces on the (REDACTED) border
DOC_Argen it was 50 aerospace against 36 LAM and 18 conventional fighters they reduced the Lynx to half a dozen fighters before reinforcements called
Snakespinner it was the Second I was thinking First elsewhere and screwed up
Marauder the Lynx have a long way to go, the Ravens are doing their own thing and no one has poked the bear for a bit
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DOC_Argen it was 50 aerospace against 36 LAM and 18 conventional fighters they reduced the Lynx to half a dozen fighters before reinforcements called
Damm, I have to say that the Dracs did better then I expected with the LAMs and conventional fighters. I honestly have to ask were the Drac LAMs "level 1" or "level 2" or better tech?
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It was a Sword of Light unit so mostly using tech from this AU and the best guns they could source likely to include ClanTech
I've never fully explained how that kind of stuff is broken down but as I've rarely announce a slow down you can assume front line elite units have high level tech this is balanced because all the nation's are pretty much in the same boat and capable of producing stuff as the timeline has gone on I've also tried to give out new toys evenly too. I want a war that works for all sides even if some try to move the goal posts occasionally for their own ends
If you see on unit listings a militia with a LAM or BA these are going to be the far more basic variants unless specifically said
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I was assuming with High tech toys but I'll be honest I am not up speed on the latest rules on LAMs
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DC's got the equivalent of XL Gyros and XL Engines for LAMs in his universe, the specifics for each are located in his tech thread, linked in his sig.
There's also a bunch of warship toys in there, with the occasional standard sized piece of equipment.
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WarShip Sceptre
Booker, Contested Space
Periphery
8th April 3112
“Prepare for microgravity” Star Captain Gerry Harper transmitted throughout the Sceptre. The WarShip had jumped into the Booker system which was currently being contested by the Magistracy of Canopus and Marian Hegemony to collect food and supplies. It was supposed to be an easy snatch and grab mission taking advantage of the two fighting periphery nations. Unfortunately, as soon as they approached the planet they had been assaulted by two Vengence-DC Pocket WarShips and their fighters. For three days the DropShips had hounded them with capital missile strikes and aerospace fighter strafing runs as they retreated towards the jump point. “Prepare for the jump” Harper said he said everywhere the Sceptre went they were hunted they had nowhere to go each jump he lost more people and the Sceptre became more unserviceable now they were low on ammunition, fuel and food he knew there wasn’t much left in the once mighty cruiser. Harper looked around the command centre at his battle-weary crew who more than anything needed a break and somewhere to make meaningful repairs to the Sceptre, not here though, “jump the ship” he ordered. Moments later the ship launched out of the Booker system and into the Astroskaszy the jump point was the site of fighting between two pirate bands. “Out of the fire and into more fire” he cursed “weapons free take out the enemy DropShips and JumpShips launch aerospace fighters.”
“The Konstantin is also launching”
“We’re not landing here what are they playing at? Get Banacek on the line.”
“No answer, Konstantin are not moving to engage the pirates.”
“Target their engines and prepare to fire.” Harper ordered overriding communications “Banacek listen to me I am ready to shoot you down if you do not return.”
“We are not your prisoners, Harper” Banacek responded as the Overlord continued to move away “the Sceptre’s path is coming to an end. My people will not go down with you.” He responded “which is why I ordered my men to place explosives inside your docking collars and cargo bays. If you do not stand down your weapons I will remotely detonate them and open your ship to space.”
“Our weapons will obliterate you.” Harper said around him the crew of the Sceptre continued to deal with the local pirate forces each of them acting almost like they were on automatic.
“Then we are at an impasse.” Banacek said Harper watched as the Overlord continued to pull out of the area “Harper let us leave and once we are out of your range the explosives we have planted will become inert and no longer dangerous to you. Attempt to attack us and as soon as you fire I will detonate them.”
“Deal” Harper cursed watching as the third and last enemy DropShip was destroyed one of the enemy JumpShips had been disabled which may allow them to capture some supplies but they knew this system would also be a bust now that the Konstantin had abandoned them. “Abandon weapons lock on Konstantin. Complete mop up operations and have Quinn Shu take her Elementals onboard that JumpShip take all we can from it, then we are moving on.”
Trade delegation
Jefferson City, Freedom
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
14th April 3112
An autocannon round impacted with Morgan’s Shrike OmniMech as things continued to get ugly on Freedom he twisted his OmniMech’s torso and returned fire with both of his OmniMech’s large lasers cutting into an enemy Shadow Hawk. His Trinary had been selected to escort the Rasalhague Dominion trade delegation on Freedom but during the negotiations unknown contacts had interfered attacking the negotiation centre on the outskirts of Freedom’s capital Jefferson City the local defending force had failed to hold them back. Now the Second Skye Jaegers were arriving on scene taking charge of the defence but Morgan wasn’t finished he marched his Shrike forwards and fired his lasers again hitting the Shadow Hawk. “Assault One status?” His commander Star Captain Dominica Jorgensson asked her star was several kilometres distant of his own escorting the traders away.
“Five up” Morgan transmitted looking over his star seeing the other four BattleMechs were up. “Second Jaegers have arrived and are taking control of the defence. They have not targeted my BattleMechs.” He said twisting his Mech’s torso to track the Shadow Hawk this time he triggered his Mech’s short range missile launchers and medium laser at the wounded BattleMech ending its fight.
“Should we support the Skye unit or fall back?” He said watching the Lyran marked units move into the area. It was strange for Morgan he had been born on Thorin, which was traditionally a Lyran world, and both of his parents had served in the Lyran Commonwealth army at one point and been in servitude to House Steiner but he had been born when his world and his parents served the Star League Defence Force and had naturally followed them.
“Negative Assault One, fall-back to point Zulu for extraction.” His commander ordered Morgan nodded his disappointment and switched channels.
“Understood, Star Commander Morgan to Assault Star, standing retreat fall back to point Zulu.” He commanded a standing retreat was Ghost Bear for a non-engagement “fighting retreat” it basically had the star for the most part walking backwards keeping their weapons ready for engagement. One at a time the star would turn and run a distance while the others covered moving away from their potential opponent.
As they fell back Morgan wondered if this would be the end of the trade deals between the Raslhague Dominion and Lyran Commonwealth he hoped not the only way for his nation and the Inner Sphere to continue peacefully was for there to be a dialog. The Sea Foxes had shown the other Clans this method was easiest, in not always the most honourable.
Orbital insertion, First Kathil Uhlans
Bithinia, Glasgow Commonality
Capellan Confederation
19th April 3112
After two successful raids the First Kathil Uhlans charged down on the production world of Bithinia intent on making the Capellan Confederation pay further for their attacks on the Federated Suns. With the WarShips FSS Fire Fang, FSS Silver Spear and FSS Comet above and substantial aerospace forces of their own the Uhlans quickly secure much of the planetary production facing at most a combined arms regiment of Capellans the Twenty-second Liao Lancers which fall quickly to the Uhlans.
Intent on disrupting Capellan Confederation operations as much as possible Marshal Richard Steiner, the commander of the Uhlans, commands that the unit empty the factories of Bithinia Ballistics the local weapons producer filling their DropShips with the weapons during their time on the planet. They are also able to capture armour plate from the world which allows them to repair some of the damage from previous raids.
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A week later the CCSS Duncan Liao, a Feng Huang-class Cruiser-carriers, Warrior House Ijori, the Twentieth Liao Lancers and Hawkins Zouaves Regiment, a combined-arms mercenary unit, arrive in the system. In his command tent Marshal Richard Steiner watches the broadcast “I am Jiang-jun Jason Zaklan to the Federated Suns forces on and around Bithinia you will be vanquished by my forces.” He said challenging them
“Pack things up, we’re far from home against the forces they have we can’t hold” Richard Steiner said to his staff. “Captain Richmond, I want you to take the Comet out of this system and find us somewhere else to go, preferably we’d all like you to find a way home. We will hold out for three weeks before pulling out you have until then to find us somewhere. Use arrival point four for your return.”
“Understood” Julia Richmond the commander of their smallest ship responded.
“Meanwhile we need to hold them back. Fire Fang and Silver Shield will delay them but neither WarShip has the firepower to hold back the Duncan Liao and all its fighters they will hit the ground in numbers we need to be prepared. If the Duncan Liao breaks through both our WarShips and assumes orbit over us I will order an evacuation if the Comet is back or not. This order will be Titanfall, it will be given once and then we will begin evacuation procedures. I will not be caught on the ground with one of those things over our heads.” He said looking around the room he saw faces that were questioning his course of action in taking the unit this deep into Capellan space but they had all seen the naval and ground forces in other systems that had blocked their path back to the Federated Suns. “I know none of us planned this path but each of you and each of your men need to remember that every minute that we tie up Capellan resources here is another minute and another unit that cannot make raids against our homes and our families.” He said attempting to remind them of their duty and the reason they were in their current position “you all have work to do, with exception of Major Aleksandr Petrov you are all dismissed.” He said quietly the unit’s leadership filed out of the command tent returning to their regiments to prepare them for the upcoming battle all except Major Aleksandr Petrov, the Land Air Mech Battalion commander. “Major, how are your people?”
“Good sir, they are ready to prove themselves and to serve.”
“I am glad to hear it” Marshal Steiner replied “when the fighting starts I want your unit to support the Infantry in our rear quarters ensure that the civilians do not become a threat to us while we hold the Capellans.”
“Sir, my unit is fully capable of supporting its comrades in open battle. We have shown this on multiple occasions” Petrov complained he was a native of Tikonov and most of the time he hid his accent well but today his native Russian accent was showing.
“Yes, you have Major, but the LAMs are a specialist unit and I am going to need them when we evacuate. So the keep your toys free from the initial fighting.”
“Da, sir” Petrov replied saluting the Marshal he seemed happy that they would at least have a place but Steiner wasn’t sure he’d like that place when he heard the order it was simple mathematics the Capellans had more air assets and Steiner wouldn’t sacrifice what he had before the unit evacuated the surface.
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Three days past before the Capellans made landfall during that time the Uhlans had dug in on Bithinia surprisingly the population of the world had not caused many problems for them but Marshal Steiner still used nearly a regiment of his infantry to watch the unit’s back. The CCAF troops hot dropped onto the planet and immediately went on the attack with Warrior House Ijori leading the way as the AFFS troops had expected. Unfortunately for Ijori the First Kathil Uhlans were one of the Federated Suns most veteran commands and had fought with Capellans on many occasions the RCT was able to weather the storm of the first attack forcing back the Capellan forces.
Unfortunately, in space things did not go as well for the Federated Suns forces as the CCSS Duncan Liao used its superior ranged weapons such as naval lasers and particle cannons to puncture the FSS Fire Fang in multiple locations. The vessel which had served the original Star League and then participated in the Exodus and served in the Clan navies now faced its final battle. Turning on the Duncan Liao weathering hit after hit the Whirlwind Block II-class Destroyer made its final charge closing on the Duncan Liao raking the Capellan cruiser with naval autocannon fire supplementing its gauss rifles and particle cannons causing some telling damage on the Duncan Liao before the Feng Huang crew were able to manoeuvre their broadside on the smaller Destroyer. In a single salvo the once proud Destroyer became a nightmarish mix of metal, fuel, blood and bone as the Fire Fang erupted from the inside blowing the craft to pieces. Unable to hold off even the damaged Duncan Liao the Silver Spear withdrew out of weapons range planning on living to fight another day.
On the ground Marshal Richard Steiner stared at the screen another time before grabbing the field telephone “All commands Titanfall, I repeat Titanfall” he said hanging up the phone looking around the tent. “Anything that we can’t remove we destroy, now move it break the camp.” He commanded seeing that the Capellans were on the attack again his BattleMechs held the line again but every time they did they took more damage.
---
Over the course of several hours the Kathil Uhlans loaded into their DropShips preparing to boost off the planet. First went the support and repair equipment, then the artillery and armour units followed by infantry leaving only the BattleMechs, Aerospace Fighters, Battle Armour and the LAM unit deployed. From the command suite of his Conquistador-class DropShip Marshal Richard Steiner pulled up the feed for Major Aleksandr Petrov. “Major, the time for your unit to shine is now are you ready?”
“Da, Marshal, we are ready our unit has had no significant issues with the civilians.”
“Understood, abandon the rear-guard, I’m sending your unit specialist orders that you should be receiving now?” Petrov looked down at a screen below him. “Major, your unit is the only one that can do this, it will be risky and it will cost you but our command needs this distraction if it is to survive.”
“You can count on us we will get the job done.”
“I know you will” Steiner said “remember Major, this is a raid not an occupation, your people do their job then you get out.” He commanded the other man nodded “good hunting to you.”
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As DropShips carrying infantry and armour personnel off the planet began to lift off what was left of the RCT’s two aerospace wings rose with them intent on trying to fend off any attacks by the Feng Huang. As a well equipped RCT the Uhlans had nearly a dozen anti-ship missiles which had been fitted to the fighters. Unfortunately, none of the missiles carried a nuclear warhead but all had a stronger punch than the traditional missile loadout of an aerospace fighter. As they did Major Aleksandr Petrov led his LAM battalion into the air from his Shadow Hawk X3M the unit took off from just behind the front-lines strafing the Capellan lines as they passed overhead to of the LAMs a Stinger and a Yurei were instantly destroyed hit by ground fire in a sensitive spot causing the pilot to lose control and crash headlong into the ground.
The rest of the Thirty-four Land-Air Mechs passed by with minimal damage carrying on towards their target the Capellan landing zone and their support facilities. Cruising close to the ground the LAMs in their aerospace fighter configurations quickly made progress towards the base landing short of the DropShip landing area they moved in towards their target as BattleMechs. Moving in Petrov sighted one of the few BattleMechs the Capellans had left to guard the base a lance of dustbin-like UrbanMechs. One of the most basic BattleMechs in existence they still had autocannons on them that would ruin the day of any of the LAMs as a result almost the entire Battalion engaged the lance knocking out all four light Mechs in a matter of seconds. Running into the basecamp the Uhlans were engaged by small arms fire and shoulder launched missiles which they could take for a short period of time. Petrov’s command went to work targeting the support base of the Capellan force, the repair cradles, the field kitchens, the communications vehicles anything of value their attack would not cripple the Capellans but it was hoped that it would distract them.
“Incoming Capellan BattleMechs!” One of his warriors called out.
“Turn to engage them, concentrate fire as much as we can it’ll be the lightest units first.” Petrov commanded moving his Land-Air Mech forward at a running pace he saw a pair of Anubis BattleMechs leading a Raven and an Osiris. “Concentrate fire take them down.” He commanded as if he had needed to already the nearest lance had bunched their fire together on one Anubis shattering the light BattleMech. The rest of the enemy lance quickly followed suit as the combined fire of the Land Air Mechs brought them all down. “Riker Lance, I want a minefield along the vector they were approaching, empty your bins.” He ordered the four Mechs had swapped convention long range missiles for air launched mines began to seed small minefields throughout the area while the others went back to destroying Capellan equipment.
“Heavier units, armour as well.” His perimeter guard called out Petrov moved back to the perimeter and saw medium and heavy BattleMechs were approaching along with tracked and wheeled armoured vehicles.
“Let’s hope we have bought the RCT enough time.” Petrov said watching the first Capellan vehicle strike one of the minefields they had laid the mines did a tiny amount of damage before the tank moved forward almost without reacting it was a passing victory but a worthwhile one. “Our plan is simple ladies and gentlemen, we draw them into their own camp and then we hightail it out of here. Remember this is a raid not an occupation we can’t stand up to them.” He said echoing Marshal Steiner’s words. From the ruined camp Petrov could see that the incoming Capellans were holding back and trying to snipe at his LAMs a Wasp was an unlucky victim of a long-range particle cannon shot which destroyed the BattleMech completely. He ducked his Shadow Hawk out of its covered position and raised its missile launcher equipped arm while the Mech had been built as an X3M Petrov had ordered some changes to the Mech which included a Headhunter Missile Launcher system on the right arm. He sat patiently waiting for the lock and fired off the missile unlike a conventional launcher the Headhunter was an all or nothing single missile launch system while the Shadow Hawk was incapable of launching the heaviest of the missiles available the system Petrov had fitted was still potent. The missile rapidly closed the distance between the two forces impacting on a Capellan JagerMech blowing a hole in the heavy Mech. Inside a secondary explosion showed internal damage to the BattleMech and Petrov smiled the Headhunter’s second party trick was it had a double warhead and was capable of penetrating the heaviest armour causing crippling internal damage. Petrov saw a couple of others had chosen the same route as him and Riker Lance was pumping out more air deployed mines closer into their position but he also saw that the Capellans were steadily closing.
“Hopper Battalion evacuate by lance, get off the ground I’ll see you in orbit.” Petrov ordered using the Battalion’s unofficial name. As he did a Screamer LAM exploded under withering fire from Capellan Mechs. Even as the LAMs raised into the air several were taking damage from ground fire Petrov followed suit soon after and saw to other LAMs struck by autocannon and missile fire as he took off. Steiner had said it would be costly and he had not been joking fourteen of the Land Air Mechs had been destroyed if their pilots had ejected they would now be prisoners of the Capellan Confederation a full third of the Battalion’s strength gone in a single battle. Rising through the atmosphere the LAMs were able to rendezvous with the DropShips and the FSS Silver Spear which was shielding them from the Feng Huang’s fire while also causing more damage on the enemy WarShip. They turned away from the planet heading towards one of the systems pirate points where the RCT’s JumpShips were hidden. Due to Capellan harassment it would take them nearly a week to escape the system jumping away from Bithinia the RCT having survived the engagement even if it had taken some losses.
As a result of the losses taken fighting the Uhlans, namely their commander and executive officer, the Hawkins Zouaves have no access to their off world finances and have no option but to officially link their loyalty to the Capellan Confederation accepting Capellan commands without hesitation.
Battlefield Marcus
Marcus, Star League Protectorate
22nd April 3112
Clan Wolf BattleMechs and Battle Armour belonging to the Golden Keshik and 342nd Wolf Assault Cluster moved on the positions of the First Marcus Guard Regiment and of the Fifth Special Operations Group. Although the SLDF defenders had superior numbers the Clansmen were more experienced and had air superiority with Wolf Aerospace fighters dominating the skies above them making near continuous bombing runs. In the Wolf lines was a new OmniMech which appeared to weigh in at fifty to fifty-five tons in weight and had appeared in three different configurations among clan forces.
The SLDF lines were bending and breaking as the Wolves pushed forward. The Guard unit was little more than a combined-arms militia regiment while the Special Operations Group was designed to support line regiments not hold a battleline. With the recent reorganisation of Star League lines to support the Taurian Concordat they were all that was left until reinforcements arrived which unfortunately would not be today.
Working in concert the Wolves quickly moved on the defenders taking out many of the SLDF’s lighter Mechs from range and with Elementals swarming many of the heavier Mechs. Behind them DropShips carrying evacuees attempted to escape the planet but they were forced to scatter upon reaching orbit due to the presence of the Ward’s Legacy. While the McKenna-class Battleship did not engage any of the DropShips leaving the planet its presence alone was too much for any of the captains trying to escape. While the Marcus Guard, the Mechs and armour of the Fifth fight to the last man the battle armour forces of the Special Operations Group scatter going to ground ready to continue to resist the occupation.
Within a week of the assaults on Marcus Zosma also falls to Clan Wolf with the SLS Unity destroyed by Clan Wolf WarShips while Brodon, Alioth and Castor all suffer raids by Clan Wolf none of the worlds fall to Clan forces. On Terra the Security Council call for the redistribution of SLDF forces to better defend the Protectorate.
Press Conference
New Vienna, Gaenir Beta
Periphery
26th April 3112
At a press conference on the world of Gaenir Beta the leader of the world Governor Phillip Locke stood in front of a group of civilians and press in the capital city of New Vienna. Gaenir Beta along with its sister worlds, Alpha, Gamma and Delta had been colonised within the last one hundred years by citizens from the Federated Suns, Taurian Concordat and Fronc Reaches from people who didn’t want to be involved in the national fighting that was overtaking the other nations sense. For the last one hundred years the worlds had held a loose trading relationship which now they made more formal.
“My name is Phillip Locke I am the Governor of Gaenir Beta, today I announce that this world will forever be known as Gaenir. The worlds of Gaenir Alpha, Gaenir Gamma and Gaenir Delta will today be known as Estorth, Prearia and Pawhion by the choice of their populations together we will form the Gaenir Collective. The Gaenir Collective offers peaceful terms to all neighbouring nations and promise a nation of non-aggression our weapons will be for defence and defence only.” A man in his mid-forties said he was dressed in a kakhi coloured jumpsuit that had no rank or insignia. “Our nation invites neighbouring realms to send diplomats to Gaenir and requests permission to send diplomats to your realms I look forward to your responses. The Gaenir Collective plans on being a productive member of the periphery community.”
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nice update, and good to see you back
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Sounds like the SLDF is in trouble!
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The wolves are testing the border whilst the flight of the Sceptre seems to be coming to an end. That was a bloody brawl in Cappie space too, a costly raid for sure and a sad end for a proud old ship. This new Periphery micronation seems interesting, hopefully it does not suffer a Bad End.
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Shocking that the
Clan Pirate ship Spectre is slowly falling apart. Mostly from the fact I thought it was just repaired in "Yard" or did the TC get in that much damage when they Endored the planet that it wasn't able to deal with the pocket warships?
That being said I'm surprise the Ravens haven't been hunting it down, especially after it got out what they did in the TC, but still I like how the are circling the Inner Sphere via the Periphery
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I think maybe keeping the Spectre going is lack of spare parts for the ship. We are talking about a Warship. Guys in Periphery may not have access to repair critical components on what might to be described as a unique one-off design.
The ship would need somehow lay low until they could sneak more parts in that more than just Armor.
I love that this Fan-Made setting has healthy doss of Warships in them, more balanced than canon. However, logistics (even with FASA's Economy by Cthulhu) it would hard to get steady order parts other than fixing basic stuff like non-exotic armor, interplanetary thrusters, etc) Nevermind CLAN made ones.
Their better off finding a older Warship adrift unless they ally themselves with the means to repair a complicated machine like that who willing to work with Clan Pirates.
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Sceptre, Entrance Jump
Lesnovo, District of Lesnovo
Free Worlds League
5th May 3112
The battered WarShip Sceptre jumped into the Lesnovo system quickly cutting in its engines moving in system. “Open a channel” Captain Gerry Harper commanded “This is the WarShip Sceptre we are Dezgra and we welcome the death that is to come.” He said the crew had decided that this would be their last attack intent on striking the Free Worlds League and causing enough of an outrage that they would be hunted down and destroyed. Harper had not intended on leading his crew to their deaths but far from any support the ship had been taking an increasing amount of damage while fuel and ammunition was also beginning to run low.
“Sensor contact it’s big…” Sensor Operator Susan reported only a couple of minutes after the ship had begun to move in system “moving up from the Zenith point, it’s a Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser.”
“Then we will die as warriors instead of being hunted like dogs.” Harper announced to his crew.
“Incoming transmission”
“On speakers”
“This is Khan Petra Furey of Clan Smoke Jaguar, Lesnovo is defended by my people identify yourselves or be destroyed like the Dezgra you claim to be.” The female voice said her accent was unmistablably Clan but the words “Clan Smoke Jaguar” rocked Gerry Harper to silence the Jaguars were dead they had been for decades. “Answer me WarShip Sceptre.”
“Sir, the Jaguar vessel identifies as the Streaking Mist they are orientating to put their broadside weapons on this vessel. Aerospace fighters have launched. Captain, they are demanding an answer.” Susan said getting his attention Jerry Harper nodded and spoke.
“Turn us to face them” he commanded before reaching for the communications panel. “I am Jerry Harper, the Smoke Jaguars are a dead Clan, whoever you are, you are not a Jaguar Khan.”
“What people hear of the Jaguars and what is true are two different things. Harper, I declare a Trial of Possession for your ship and crew.”
“My ship is no match for yours my aerospace fighters are short on fuel and ammunition, it would not be a fair fight.”
“Nothing in life is fair.” Furey replied “fine, Sceptre have it your way.” She said there was silence for several moments Harper half expected to see the Streaking Mist’s weapons light up and for the Sceptre to disappear around him instead he saw a small craft launch from the Black Lion and head towards them under escort by two Aerospace Fighters. “Allow my fighters to dock with your WarShip my pilots will return on the small craft while your best pilots will face my own in combat. The winner will decide the fate of the Sceptre.”
“I agree I will fight this battle personally.”
“You are welcome to Star Captain”
---
Almost an hour later Harper was sitting in the F-11 Cheetah Aerospace Fighter easing the twenty-five-ton craft to the left and back to the right. Alongside him Pilot Naveen was also getting to know the Inner Sphere fighter craft. “Star Captain Harper, are you prepared quiaff?” Khan Petra Furey asked
“Aff, Khan we are” he transmitted back suddenly two more Cheetah’s approached at high speed on either side pulse laser blasts were traded as the two flights crossed paths. Harper braked heavily turning his fighter to the right trying to hunt down one of the enemy craft he saw that Naveen had followed his lead in the turn which brought them back into another flying pass with the Jaguars. “Break to Port on my count, follow your own flight Naveen and allow your beak to guide you.” He commanded “Break now!”
As he did the two craft split one heading port while Harper pulled back on the stick pulling the Cheetah’s nose up and over flipping the craft and changing direction completely he then sharply turned to the right and forced the craft’s nose down moving into position he saw that Naveen’s path was going to bring him directly towards the two Jaguar pilots but Harper was more concerned with his own survival and allowed the fight to progress as it did he saw Naveen’s craft be peppered by several laser hits including one that pierced the cockpit killing the young Raven. It was a warrior’s death and an honourable one at that, but it was also one that may have won them this battle. Continuing his dive Harper brought both pulse lasers online targeting both enemy craft from above he fired down on them “walking” the pulse lasers over the two enemy Cheetah’s damaging both as he sliced through their flight path he spun his craft to port and starboard as the damaged Jaguars began to turn to follow him now more sluggish than before.
Harper danced the Cheetah through space avoiding the pulse laser fire from the chasing Jaguars allowing them to close on his craft “I tap the breaks” he whispered decelerating rapidly he watched as the two enemy craft closed rapidly missing his own ship by metres “and you fly by” he said triumphantly targeting one of the craft pounding its rear section with pulse laser fire what followed were a series of internal explosions that ended the Cheetah’s fight. He then dived after the second craft keeping up his pursuit the pilot was obviously experienced and continued to push him to the limit of his skill. Finally, the pilot tried to spin his craft in space intent on pivoting along the flight path to fire back on Harper’s craft unfortunately this only ever worked if you were not already in weapons range in pursuit Harper continued to fire cutting into the enemy Cheetah breaching its armour in several locations before the fighter exploded from the inside with the pilot ejecting.
“Streaking Mist to Star Captain Harper, you are victorious today. well done” Khan Petra Furey transmitted to his fighter Harper hadn’t expected her to congratulate him herself nothing these Jaguars did made sense. “Come aboard the Streaking Mist and we will discuss your future.”
“Safcon is granted quiaff?” He asked still surprised his enemy were not preparing another wave of fighters to attack him or using the Black Lion’s guns to target the Sceptre.
“Of course, you are victorious”
“I am on my way”
---
The lights were dim onboard the Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser Streaking Mist and few of the crew wore full Smoke Jaguar uniforms instead they wore parts of multiple uniforms which these Clansmen had encountered during their journey from the Clan Homeworlds. He was led through the vessel to the command centre deep inside the WarShip where he encountered Khan Petra Furey. She was younger than he had expected and had medium length dark hair that was tied back behind her head he seamlessly slipped into two of the holding points on the floor so he could stand in the microgravity.
“Khan Furey”
“Star Captain Harper, welcome on board the Streaking Mist, an impressive performance out there today you have saved your WarShip from annihilation.”
“I could not allow them to be lost without a fight. Your generosity with lending us aerospace fighters and accepting the defeat.”
“Your performance warranted it”
“Khan, with respect you do not act like Smoke Jaguars I have ever encountered before.”
“We are not, we are survivors, we have faced the destruction of our Clan and we are still here.”
“And your alliance with an Inner Sphere state?”
“Our home is in their territory my Clan is only so strong.”
“You do know that your name alone could bring enemies to your door quiaff?”
“Aff, we are aware as is the District of Lesnovo and they are, at least for now, willing to stand by us. I plan to grow the strength of my Clan so when our name is known we can stand against all comers.”
“That is quite a task”
“A task that could be made easier with the addition of more Clansmen of like mind, skill and resource.” She said broaching a new subject “Star Captain, your skill has impressed me and my warriors, I offer you all places in the reborn Clan Smoke Jaguar. Allow us to offer you the second chance we have been granted and let us return the Sceptre to glory.” She said she saw his reluctance remained “we are not the same people you are familiar with and your presence will change us even more together we can show everyone the Clan Smoke Jaguar that they were supposed to see before.”
“Aff, on behalf of myself and my ship, I accept your offer Khan.” He said bowing his head the chance to serve in a Clan again winning over his reservations he hoped that this was not a mistake like so many others the Sceptre had made. For now the Sceptre would not be much of a benefit to the Smoke Jaguars or to the people of Lesnovo but in time with the correct assets it could be a powerful asset.
First Kathil Uhlans Landings
Les Halles, District of Oriente
Free Worlds League
7th May 3112
With minimal ground defences and no naval presence Les Halles in the Free Worlds League’s District of Oriente made a perfect target for the First Kathil Uhlans as they retreated from the Capellan Confederation. Landing in the middle of a massive snowstorm which appeared to cover the entire northern atmosphere the area had been picked to specifically avoid the planetary defenders. Marshal Richard Steiner walked onto the command deck of his lead DropShip as it descended through the atmosphere this stopping point was designed to get them fuel and food that would sustain them during their trip back towards Federated Suns territory. “Have landing party Alpha depart when we hit the ground they provide us with ground security while the other ships come down. They are not to engage unless we are engaged.”
“We are invaders Marshal” Colonel Sofia Bukhalova reminded him she was his aide and friend a native of Wernke in the Federated Suns she had served in the Regiment for years and had Uhlan blood.
“I know we are but we’re not going to attack them instead I plan to speak to them hopefully they will understand that we don’t mean them harm and we have come here by accident.”
“One Succession State’s armed forces in the territory of another, I can see this going so well. I want to deploy Beta along with Alpha as soon as we’re settled.”
“That’s a third of our remaining forces.”
“I fear we’ll need the security”
“Fine Colonel, but lets make sure we have plenty people taking downtime as well we don’t know how long we’ll be here and this weather isn’t going to help matters.” He said as the Conquistador-class DropShip came in for its landing all around the DropShips were making landings in the deep snow that covered Les Halles surface.
“Communication from the planet” the communication officer said looking over at him “a Prefect Freema Smit.”
“Put her on loudspeaker” he said “Prefect Freema Smit, I am Marshal Richard Steiner of the First Kathil Uhlans RCT of the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns, we are not here as aggressors we wish to repair and refit and we are willing to trade for supplies.”
“You are a member of the Steiner family?” She asked Richard Steiner shook his head barely believing what he had heard he had just told the leader of a planet that he was leading a foreign RCT to the planet’s surface and the planetary leader was only interested in the fact he was a member of the Steiner family.
“I am a relation to the ruling line” he said thinking ‘a very distant relation.’ “Prefect, I want it to be very clear that our unit does not mean hostile intent.”
“I understand you, Marshal Steiner, we wish to protest your unit’s arrival on Las Halles however we will not attack you on one condition” he said pausing for a moment “I wish to outfit my militia forces with traditional Steiner designs and I wish to dine with a member of the Steiner family two unique things in the District of Oriente.”
“Agreed” Steiner replied thinking it would be a small price to pay as his unit planned the next part of their detour.
Jade Falcon Offensive
Crevedia, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
9th May 3112
Across the Jade Falcon line elements of three Jade Falcon Clusters and one Ebon Guard Cluster fought against Lyran Commonwealth defenders and their mercenary back up. At the centre of the Ebon Guard Galaxy Loremaster of the Clans Brennley Roshak piloted her Night Gyr OmniMech against the Lyran Commonwealth unit’s targeting her enemy with her OmniMech’s Extended Range Particle Cannons and type 10 ultra autocannon. She had no need to be here in open combat she enjoyed feeling the power of the Night Gyr under her and seeing the destruction the weapons brought on the nearby Lyran BattleMechs and vehicles. The defenders on this planet were not equipped with the best equipment most of those were deployed on Arcturus, Odessa, Donegal and Coventry. Already the Jade Falcons had steamrolled over Alma Alta forcing back the Nineteenth Arcturan Guards RCT and the WarShip LCS Danzig while Cameron had also fallen to the Jade Falcons now Crevedia was their target and the Ebon Guard Cluster had been attached to them.
Forcing her way forwards Brennley Roshak kept up her fire on a larger Zeus BattleMech the Inner Sphere assault Mech was produced in the Lyran Commonwealth and featured in almost all of their units. Although being heavier than the Night Gyr the more powerful Clan weapons gave he the advantage moving forwards she triggered her particle cannons only for the Zeus to soak up the hit and return fire with its own particle cannon, laser and missile launcher showering the Jade Falcon OmniMech in weapons fire. Brennley moved to the right twisting her OmniMech’s torso keeping her weapons on the Zeus she triggered her autocannon again sending more ballistic ordinance into the enemy assault Mech moments later she triggered her particle cannons the Zeus twisted its torso tracking her Night Gyr but the missiles went wide as did its laser with only the particle cannon striking the Roshak’s Mech. Emboldened by the Lyran warrior’s misses Brennley charged on the Zeus closing the distance pumping further autocannon salvos into the Zeus. As the seventy-five-ton Night Gyr moved forwards a gauss rifle slug flew in from Brennley’s right striking the upper half of the Night Gyr’s torso the slug careered up over the torso striking the bottom of the cockpit tearing through the cockpit decapitating the OmniMech killing the Loremaster of the Clans.
While the loss of the Loremaster of the Clans was demoralising to the Ebon Guard cluster who also became the focus of the Lyran defence with the Cluster being essentially destroyed in the battle. Unfortunately this focus allowed the Jade Falcon force to encircle and eliminate the defenders securing the main continent of Crevedia. From the other continents two small mercenary units escaped the Jade Falcons.
---
Nearly three weeks later Iwabuchi Nagasawa of Clan Sea Fox’s Faulk Khanate became the new Loremaster of the Clans. The forty-seven-year-old Sea Fox warrior’s first duty is to promote the Watch unit to a front-line cluster and add it to the Ebon Guard Galaxy. Meanwhile on the Jade Falcon border the Lyran’s continue to raid the Jade Falcon OZ trying their defences with the Charlestown Chiefs, Crescent Hawks and Snord’s Irregulars with the Charlestown Chiefs debuting their new Aurora-class DropShip and an additional lance of BattleMechs added during their time on Skye.
Border conflict
Rasalhague Dominion
Lyran Commonwealth
15th May 3112
In retaliation for the troubles encountered on Freedom Clan Ghost Bear forces representing the Rasalhague Dominion raid Marfik, Freedom, Yed Prior and Alexandria on Marfik the Clansmen are turned away by the Gray Death Legion while other Lyran Commonwealth forces the Bear’s aggression takes many by surprise and raises defence standing in the Isle of Skye region of the Lyran Commonwealth. Even against the Gray Death mercenaries the Ghost Bears adhere to Clan duelling laws of Zellbrigen.
Situation Tent, First Kathil Uhlans RCT
Ice Plains, Les Halles
District of Oriente, Free Worlds League
17th May 3112
With his winter jacket wrapped around him Marshal Richard Steiner entered the command tent of the First Kathil Uhlans RCT he had been looking over the local militia force when word of the attack had been passed to him. “What do we have?”
“Sir, within the last hour a Capellan Confederation assault force has arrived in system, sir, the Silver Shield has been destroyed by Capellan naval assets.” Colonel Sofia Bukhalova reported as he entered “Capellans are no on their way to the planet.”
“The JumpShips and Comet?”
“As per your orders the JumpShips jumped clear of the system as we believe the Comet has.” She reported his standing orders were for the JumpShips to avoid capture and attempt to make their way back to the Federated Suns anyway they could. The Comet was under the same orders to avoid conflict and to escape back to the Federated Suns informing them of the plight of the Kathil Uhlans.
“Then we’re on our own” Steiner said he’d hoped to still have the option to use the JumpShips to escape and keep the unit together but the people of Las Halles had been slower in passing on the supplies that were available probably because the AFFS unit didn’t have guns to their head but he hadn’t wanted to come across as a hostile force and as far he knew the world’s Prefect had not called for assistance from beyond Las Halles. “Call all units have them prepare for a fight” he said looking at the holo-map they’d picked this glacier as a landing zone because it was open enough for the aerodyne craft they had but that also made it an area that the Capellan’s could use. “Contact the Prefect inform her that aggressive Capellan forces are on their way to the planet we will do all we can to make sure they are not affected by this fight.”
“And if the WarShip comes in?”
“We can’t do anything about that ship now we’ll just have to hope the Silver Shield and her fighters damaged them enough to make them wary about approaching if not we’ll send the fighters we have to worry them for as long as we can.”
---
Six days later the Capellan Confederation forces arrived in orbit over the Kathil Uhlans position with their WarShip hovering away from planetary orbit holding at maximum range. On the ground the Uhlans waited for the Capellan assault while aerospace fighters duked it out in the air above. Across the radio waves a new communication was passed on all channels.
“This is Prefect Freema Smit to the incoming Capellan Forces welcome to Les Halles.” The Prefect said “your conflict is with the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns unit on this planet. At this very moment this transmission and everything that has run up to today is being sent to Oriente so I want t make this very clear. We have not called for assistance from the Capellan Confederation’s Armed Forces not did we request you to enter into combat with those of the Federated Suns in this system.”
“This is Jason Zaklan of the Capellan Confederation. Prefect, we do not need your call for assistance nor do we need your permission to engage with the Federated Suns. They violated our territory they will pay the price of defiling the territory of the Celestial Wisdom.” Came the accented response “my forces are beginning their atmospheric entry we will discuss Les Halles surrender once the Uhlans have been dealt with.”
“We have nothing to do with the Federated Suns unit…”
“You have harboured our enemies and continue to support them.”
“They have done us no harm” the Prefect said finally “we will defend against any threat to Les Halles. The Uhlans are no threat and now you have become a threat.” She said cutting the line.
Sitting in his Templar OmniMech Marshal Richard Steiner had listened to the words as had the other members of his command in the air above them there were sonic booms as the Capellan DropShips entered the atmosphere joining their aerospace fighters which were already causing turmoil for the AFFS aerospace forces. “Stand by everyone we know what’s coming we need to stand up to their forces and push them back.”
“New contacts eight Meteor-G and Four Angel Conventional Fighters coming from the capital they are aiming for the incoming Capellan DropShips.”
“They’re committing suicide” Steiner said watching the screens the fighters must have been carrying additional ordinance because they were flying far slower than they were capable but Richard Steiner knew the damage they could cause. “Steiner to air wings interference in west quadrant, allow the local fighters to get in range.” The conventional fighters continued to close on the Capellan DropShips as Capellan aerospace fighters moved on them AFFS aerospace fighters attempted to fly some interference allowing the FWL craft to close on a descending Union-class DropShip the thunder of the eight Meteor-G fighters autocannnons complemented by long range missiles from the two flights of Angel fighters pounded the Union shattering its port engines and two of the cargo bay doors. The Union quickly began to fall faster than the other craft around it as the vessel lost control falling out of formation. “Track that craft’s trajectory we’ll have to deal with the survivors.” Above the militia fighters were continuing to press their luck turning on a giant Overlord-class DropShip unleashing their carried ordinance as well as their own inbuilt weapons. The Overlord soaked up the damage while Capellan fighters ripped into the remaining conventional fighters. “Thank you for trying” Richard Steiner said what everyone was thinking they hadn’t stood a chance but they had tried now all across the skies BattleMechs were appearing as they jumped towards the surface.
The melee that followed was brutal as the Federated Suns force and Capellan Confederation force engaged in a no hold’s barred assault on each other. Marshal Richard Steiner commanded his forces from the centre piloting his Templar in command of an entire company of assault Mechs together they were lashing out at entire companies of Capellan forces concentrating their fire proving why assault Mechs were so feared. While they brought down several Capellan units aerospace fighters bombed the AFFS lines creating loss after loss. “We need to break their ground forces company target this group.” Steiner commanded stepping his Templar across the shadow of an Atlas BattleMech using it as a shield while he made his plan in the centre of the formation was a lace of Ti T’sang Heavy BattleMechs which Zaklan used as his personal BattleMech. “That’s who we are going after” he said stepping out from behind the Atlas hitting one of Ti T’sangs with a particle cannon shot. Together his assault company waded through Capellan units taking heavy damage as they did the Ti T'sangs didn’t retreat instead they turned on the Davion formation and charged forwards straight at them striking down enemies as they closed. As they approached Richard Steiner’s command however they did so attacking enemy BattleMechs twenty-thirty tons heavier than their own Mechs. While the Heavy Mechs had a huge amount of speed they lacked the armour of the heavier designs. “Do not allow them to get into physical contact with those lances will ruin our armour.” He reminded them all “split by lance pick a Mech and fire” he commanded “bring them down.” He said the units combined fire on the four Capellan heavy Mechs taking heavy damage from all sides several of Richard’s Mechs were knocked down and out of the fight but so were all four Capellan BattleMechs. The remaining Capellans continued to engage the Uhlans but they were heavily outnumbered and were quickly eliminated by the combined force of the remaining Uhlans. Above them Capellan aerospace fighters continued to fly but without ground support they could not hold the territory and as this world was still a Free Worlds League governed world they dared not bombard the surface leading to a stalemate.
Clan Council
Farstar, Clan Lynx Territory
Periphery
22nd May 3112
Khan Katrine Devalis stepped up infront of the bloodnamed members of her Khan she knew they were still waiting for her to inform them where the Clan was heading but she needed to give them a new direction but first she needed to announce some changes. “Fellow warriors” she said looking to either side of the gathered warriors “our Clan needs depth not only in our construction and training but also in our genetic make-up so today I am announcing the formation of the Bedford, Schuetz and Guerette Bloodhouses. These houses have been closed by Clan Nova Cat for decades written off as not productive enough to be warriors but I believe that the Lynx can make them famous for other reasons.” She said “we are also going to open a new Bloodhouse based off the blood of the local people who have fought and died for their own worlds.” She said from the group of warriors there was a grumble from warriors but none raised a descent “we will build this Clan to be one of the strongest together by defending our homes and defeating our enemies.” She said she could see they still wanted another announcement before the Council divided into individual Bloodhouses to support or denounce her motions “as of tomorrow I am calling for Trials of Possession against Ariel, Adesia, Erdenet and Alfrik and for a Trial of Possession for the use of the Sea Fox shipyard in Jarnfolk territory.” She said she knew that would also give them something to focus on in the short term as the Clan prepared for actions against anyone who stood up to them.
In the coming days Clan Lynx would win control over all four planets that were nestled between them and the Clan Sea Fox influenced Jarnfolk space. The Clan would then go on to win access to the Sea Fox’s Shipyard but due to a spirited defence by the merchant-warriors the Lynx would only be allowed to access the shipyard when the Foxes permitted a far more complex resolution than Devalis had wanted but it was a start for her Clan.
Elsewhere in the periphery Clan Nova Cat continues to battle the Taurian Concordat on several worlds causing Brofinder, Gordian Charleston, Orkney and Carvajal to all announce they were aligning with the newly formed Gaenir Collective. Gaenir continues to broadcast its peaceful intentions to all of its neighbours while also hiring several small mercenary units to provide it with a defence.
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Great update!
I want to say I called where I thought the Sceptre would end up, but I can't find a quote, so nope, I didn't. :(
Interesting to see the Falcons continuing, I'm wondering if, with the change in Loremasters, there might be another shift in the Ebon Guard's deployment (will he/she pull them back from supporting the Falcons?).
Lyrans really seem to be in a painful position, Falcons and Horses continuing to press, and the Coyotes and Dominion occasionally making a nuisance of themselves, then all the stuff happening on their periphery border.
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Love the latest entry, Dragoncat!
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Love the fight scene!
Shame no WoB love... :'(
TT >:D
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Damm the "Rogue" Clanners piloting a New Warship found a home, gee with other clanners... :o
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Damm the "Rogue" Clanners piloting a New Warship found a home, gee with other clanners... :o
They should have died facing the guns of the Streaking Mistlike all dezgra scum.
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i really like that they all used Cheetahs for the battle. they are both are short equipment. even modified cheetah would "only" cost about 2mil each. its a good use of resources.
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They should have died facing the guns of the Streaking Mistlike all dezgra scum.
but that shows to me that {ICC) they they were never Rogues, so the TC has been right to declare all clanner forces as pirates and to be treated as such.
by the way thanks again Dragon Cat for 1 hell of a Alternative Universe
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An excellent update as always, the Lyrans are still in dire trouble though :s
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So it's been a while, I went on holiday and moved house so something had to take a back seat
But here's some new stuff
Entry Jump, FSS Comet (Peter-class Scout)
New Olympica, Star League Protectorate
Free Worlds League
1st June 3112
The tiny FSS Comet jumped into the New Olympica system without an escort immediately setting off alarms for the Star League Defence Force defenders. Normally a Peter-class Scout vessel would enter a system with a JumpShip or WarShip acting as cover allowing the ship’s small jump signature to slip into the background. With no cover even a small jump signature was easily noticed by the SLS Sheridan, the Star League Defence Force’s Bonaventure-class Training Vessel, which was assigned to the system. Despite it being a training vessel and a vessel outdated by modern standards the Bonaventure still easily outgunned the Comet as did the approaching aerospace fighters.
“This is the FSS Comet Captain Julia Richmond of the Federated Suns Navy commanding we request Asylum from the SLDF defenders of New Olympica and request that you contact the Federated Suns and inform them that the First Kathil Uhlans are stranded on Les Halles in the District of Oriente.” The transmission came across the general SLDF communications channel as aerospace fighters dived towards the vessel “I repeat this is the FSS Comet we are willing to offer our immediate and uncontested surrender to SLDF forces in exchange for protection from attack from the Free Worlds League and communications with the Federated Suns.”
“This is Captain Otto Biermann in command of the SLS Sheridan your surrender is accepted marines will board and commandeer your vessel. Permission for communications with the Federated Suns will decided at a later date and will not be conditional of your surrender. Any attempt at resistance will result in the destruction of your vessel.” With SLDF aerospace fighters swarming the Comet, small craft approaching from both sides and the SLS Sherdian hovering nearby the Federated Suns crew wouldn’t be able to resist even if they wanted to.
Public Announcement, Command Station
Galatea Station, Galatea
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
9th June 3112
After weeks of criminal issues and threats against the Galatea Station military governor of the station Captain Michael O’Hare stood in front of the Tri-Vid camera to make an announcement. “In recent months Galatea Station has received intelligence of threats that were made against this station. We requested assistance from Skye and from Tharkad and have not received assistance. In recent days Galatea Station Security has stopped two suspected terrorist bombings with no loss of life. As a result of these threats and a lack of support Galatea Station command has chosen to separate from the Lyran Commonwealth High Command and instead call on assistance from the Star League Protectorate.” He said pausing briefly O’Hare was in his sixties and a career Lyran Commonwealth Naval Officer this decision had killed him but it was one that needed to be made “I have served the Lyran Commonwealth for more than thirty years, I have served on every border our nation has, but as Military Governor of Galatea Station I am responsible for all of the people that come through this station and I will do everything I can to protect them.” He said confident he had justified his position “Galatea Station will remain an open port for all mercenary commands and visitors from all nations of the Inner Sphere.” He said signing off the message with the Galatea Flag along with that of the Galatea Station and the Cameron Star.
Border fighting
Castor, Star League Protectorate
15th June 3112
“I am Star Colonel Michael Carns of Clan Wolf of the Eleventh Wolf Striker Cluster I claim this world, its people and its resources for Clan Wolf defenders announce yourselves.” The Clan Wolf commander announced as his BattleMech left the DropShip what followed was a massive artillery barrage followed by a huge bombing campaign which smashed through the Clan Wolf aerospace defences beginning a battle for the planet.
The Wolves had come to Castor intending on conquest and found no naval defences thinking that Castor wasn’t important enough to the Star League to defend with capital assets now however they were against a ground campaign with the local criminal gangs supporting the Star League ground forces.
These gangs had been exactly why the SLDF did not have a large presence on the world and had been a constant problem for the Star League since their take over of the system. As the fighting progressed the SLDF fell back but the gangs continued to resist Wolf occupation. As a word of warning the Wolves razed an entire compound to the ground burning the supplies of an entire gang unfortunately the fighting with these gangs was just beginning. Even as SLDF units feel back off the planet Wolf forces continued to be harassed by gang forces.
Elsewhere the Game World continues to entertain thousands with the Thirty-ninth Star League Games kicking off on Solaris VII. Local boy Alexander Munro competing as an independent and piloting an Atlas II BattleMech is victorious in the competition.
Sentencing Hearing, Military Court
Lesnovo, District of Lesnovo
Free Worlds League
28th June 3112
Colonel Dominic Nostra stood in front of a military tribunal wearing a plain green jumpsuit devoid of rank and with his name and military serial number stencilled into it was the same uniform he had worn since his arrest. He stood in front of a group of five senior officers and remained silent as they exonerated his unit of wrong doing on Twin Sons but levied all blame on Nostra himself he’d expected it and took the blame and the trouble that followed. By split vote he was stripped of his command, rank and sentenced to life in military prison before being escorted through the courthouse to a waiting APC that would take him to a waiting DropShip.
As the APC travelled from the court inside the city to the outskirts its two Vendette escort tanks were hit from various sides by four BattleMechs they quickly eliminated the remaining infantry who had been defending the APC before extracting an unconscious Dominic Nostra from the flipped over vehicle before disappearing into Lesnovo’s wilderness.
Hours later Dominic woke wearing the same green jumpsuit he had when he was in court he was lying in a cave and outside a thunderstorm raged with rain beating down on the Lesnovo wilderness. Nearby the lance of BattleMechs that had attacked his convoy waited silently for their next command. In the cave another warrior waited with him this one was dressed in a full body suit that had been painted green it was the unmistakable outfit of the Bounty Hunter.
“You know who I am?” The figure asked in an artificial voice which disguised their identity down to Dominic not knowing if it was a male or female.
“You’re the Bounty Hunter or a very impressive actor.” He said he moved slightly from his prone position he felt a twinge of pain in his side and guessed he must have broken a rib or two in the attack.
“Good” it replied “and why do you think you are here?”
“My sins have caught up with me?”
“Yes and no” the figure replied “your actions on Twin Sons did impress me it showed a person willing to do what needed to be done without hesitation.”
“I was required to do it, I didn’t enjoy it”
“You don’t need to enjoy it Dominic just be willing to work for money.”
“I’m a MechWarrior, all we work for is coin.”
“I’m glad you agree” the figure replied “and with that in mind I’d like to offer you a job. Join my team and you can be a MechWarrior again or I can leave you to your freedom in this cave.”
“What’s the catch?”
“You’ll have to kill people and not ask questions about it.”
“It’ll be necessary?” Dominic asked knowing the answer.
“For the pay packet it will be necessary to kill, yes”
“I’m in” Dominic said after several minutes of thought he was done serving people who didn’t appreciate someone who was willing and able to kill their enemies to get a job done.
"Welcome to your new life" the figure replied hours later the Bounty Hunter’s Mule-class DropShip left the planet on fake lift off papers joining the traffic above the world heading out of the system.
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great to see this back up. great update.
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A holiday, must of been that trip to Siberia we organised for you. :D
Glad to see you back and updating. :beer:
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Good to see this back up.
Where have you moved to?
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Good to see this back up.
Where have you moved to?
Same town in with girlfriend new flat close to my work
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Excellent to see this back, the Wolves have gotten themselves a headache of a world the SLDF seems happy to have abandoned, and the Bounty Hunter gets another one for his or her crew.
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And the Word is still out there doing something bad!
TT
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Internal conflict
Andrey, Tukayyid
Clan Space, Inner Sphere
3rd July 3112
While less than a decade old the Free Guilds created by Loremaster Thomas Ward had succeeded beyond anyone’s expectations even with the current Sea Fox Loremaster of the Clans in Iwabuchi Nagasawa the Guilds had increased production, research and trade on Tukayyid tenfold building facilities quicker than any individual Clan could match. Unfortunately, this success had also brung conflict to the defecto capital of the Clans with each success the Free Guilds accomplished it further diminished the individual Clan’s traders successes. In Clan society where success was not a happy coincidence but instead necessary for progression and unlike in Warrior society where conflict could be solved in Honour Trials in the civilian trader world where weapons were available but honour was lacking the battles became far more brutal. Usually these fights resulted in several members of both sides ending up in medical centres needing treatment for bumps and bruises other times things were far more deadly.
Following a long day of work the Free Guilds often gathered in local bars to wind down normally there were the usual assortment of Free Guilds traders and workers local community and various members of the lower castes of local Clan populations as well as an assortment of Clan traders from various Clans. Tonight was different the majority of the people in the bar were from the Free Guilds and local lower castes with only a couple of Clan traders present. As they enjoyed their night no one spotted the Clan Sea Fox painted Rache Battle Armour suit stepping up outside nor would they have seeing armed units pass was a common occurrence what wasn’t normal was the suit turning its weapons on the bar and opening fire. A hair of machine gun fire followed by four short range missiles slammed into the bar filling it with fire killing everyone inside the Rache disappeared into the night leaving the bar to burn with an intense heat.
Emergency crews pulled nearly one hundred confirmed casualties out of the bar over the course of the clean up operation with dozens more thought to have burned to death in the intense fire that had enveloped the the bar. Several days later the Rache suit was found abandoned and burnt out in trees several kilometres from the bar Clan Watch units and intelligence units on Tukayyid working on behalf of the Loremaster find that several Sea Fox Merchants had taken it upon themselves to target the Free Guilds because of their successes. This results in nearly a dozen Sea Fox arrests with each of the traders quickly found guilty and executed by members of their own Clan’s Warrior Caste.
Clan Wolf Command Tent
Pollux, Star League Protectorate
8th July 3112
Clan Wolf had launched another wave of attacks on the Star League Protectorate targeting Pollux, Devil’s Rock and Denebola intent on taking another step closer to their conquest of unfortunately on all three worlds they had encountered elements of the First Knights of the Inner Sphere Regimental Brigade, the Third Sirius Regimental Brigade and the Guard Regiments of each world as well as naval assets in the Denebola system which had destroyed the Wolf vessel Moore’s Honour and sent the invasion into retreat.
On Pollux and Devil’s Rock the Wolves had not encountered naval forces and had instead forced their way through the SLDF aerospace forces and landed on the two worlds. On Devil’s Rock Khan Amina Kerensky stiffened the resolve of the forces while saKhan Evan Kell led forces on Pollux.
“What do you mean dead?” Evan Kell demanded hearing the news that he had both dreaded and almost expected his command tent had gone from a hive of activity to near silence in a moment. According to the latest report Khan Amina Kerensky had been killed as her command was overwhelmed by the First Knights of the Sphere on Devil’s Rock.
“Sir, according to our troops who lifted off Devil’s Rock Khan Amina Kerensky died when her OmniMech took a direct hit to the cockpit by an enemy gauss rifle.”
“A warrior’s death” Evan Kell said crediting her with that at least that. He'd have preferred she had survived to help lead her Clan but it was the Clan way for warriors to wish glory regardless of their rank. Now he could try to steer the Wolves on a path closer to that of the path the Exiles were on.
“Aff, Khan Kell, until further notice you are the new Khan of Clan Wolf and in charge of this invasion…” the warrior said only to be interrupted by the sound of gun fire. The warrior turned away from his Khan towards the door only to be faced with a hail of bullets all meant for Evan Kell. As the warrior was torn apart by the support machine gun Kell dived behind a table and drew his sidearm unfortunately the SLDF Power Armour were not finished there the two black clad figures entered the tent and opened fire with their support machine guns gunning down everyone present in a vicious head-hunter attack. Even behind his table Evan Kell was not safe to the sustained weapons fire and intent on being remembered as a fighting Khan he rose from his position and engaged the two troopers gaining headshots on both but penetrating neither suit’s armour. The return fire killed Evan Kell and in a space of a day Clan Wolf had lost two Khans.
With Wolf forces robbed of their leadership and in retreat the SLDF are able to push forwards over the next couple of weeks and secure both Devil’s Rock and Pollux. They then push into the Wolf Empire liberating Milton and Alchiba while the Lyran Commonwealth’s Skye Command shows solidarity with the SLDF, and seizes on an opportunity to liberate some territory, to liberate Pheoda and Shiloh from Clan Wolf. Without leadership Clan Wolf fall into a defensive pattern aggressively defending their remaining systems.
Border fighting
Erod’s Escape, Taurian Concordat
Periphery
11th July 3112
Clan Nova Cat’s campaign against the Taurian Concordat resumes with the invasions of Erod’s Escape, Colchis and Belle Isle. Fighting against the First Taurian Pride and the First Protectorate Guard the Nova Cat’s make quick progress in taking over their positions. Fighting among the Nova Cat forces on Erod’s Escape is Lucian Nova Cat, formerly Bondsman and now a MechWarrior, he quickly proves himself downing two enemy Mechs and destroying three tanks during the fighting leading to him winning the right to a Trial of Position following the battle. Fighting against another Nova Cat MechWarrior he wins the right to the rank of Star Commander in the Nova Cat Touman.
The Nova Cat’s quickly secure Erod’s Escape and Colchis but Belle Isle hold’s out longer with the Taurians surprising the Clan with two mercenary units supporting the worlds defence holding off the invaders. Elsewhere in the Concordat SLDF and Taurian commands plan their next coordinated moves against the Nova Cats while on Taurus eighteen-year-old Nikola Calderon the daughter of Erik Martens-Calderon and heir to the Taurian leadership begins her formal martial training intent on joining the Taurian Armed Forces and assisting in the defence of her nation.
Recovery ward, Royal Hospital of Donegal
Donegal, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
21st July 3112
Tears streamed down Millie Milovich face as she laid on the hospital bed on Donegal and thought about what she and her people had gone through in the last week. She’d awoken after being hospitalized for more than a week on Donegal after her unit’s defeat on Odessa along with other mercenary units, Lyran Commonwealth commands and units of the Star League Defence Force. Her own Marauder II C had been destroyed in the fighting and in total more than half of her unit had lost their lives or been dispossessed during the fighting.
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A week before on Odessa Millie Milovich moved her BattleMech to the left avoiding a particle cannon shot but instantly walking into a flight of long range missiles followed by laser fire. Armour shattered and boiled away from her BattleMech as one of the unit’s Stronghold armoured trailers exploded under enemy fire. The Jade Falcons had hit Odessa with six front-line clusters with several WarShips supporting now it was a fight for survival as the Clansmen stormed into their lines and strafed them from above.
“Pull back to point BRAVO, abandon ALPHA, repeat abandon BRAVO rendezvous!” She called out as her Marauder II C was struck by a Gauss rifle from a running Jade Falcon Shadow Cat II. The sixty-ton BattleMech quickly followed up with missile fire which devoured more of her armour as she fought to stay in control.
Behind the Shadow Cat II however something caught Milovich’s eye she’d seen the silhouette before but had yet to set her eyes on the design. In the centre of the Jade Falcon formation was the newest of the Clan’s OmniMechs the fifty-ton Black Harrier. Milovich targeted the Shadow Cat II intent on keeping the heavy at bay while gathering sensor data on the new target, sensor data that would pay as much as their entire Lyran contract but her efforts were thwarted by intense Jade Falcon ECM cover. She realised she’d fallen behind the other mercenaries with her and now she had to fight for her life just to escape the Clansmen across the line BattleMech’s from Van Halen’s Heavy Cavalry and from the Rubinsky’s Light Horse littered the field as did armour from the Star League and Lyran Commonwealth. The main bulk of the fighting for the defence of Odessa was to the north of hear near the capital city while this fight was more of a side show for the defenders and for the attackers.
“Continue to fall back” she called out as her BattleMech was slammed once heavily then several more times from behind which was quickly followed by two more heavy hits. Unseen by Milovich the Black Harrier had jumped into her BattleMech’s “Six” position and unloaded its weapons into her back. Even as the Marauder II C began to fall Milovich triggered the auto-eject then everything went blank.
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Millie Milovich blinked away the tears “what happened?”
“Part of the cockpit jammed in place struck your command chair and knocked you off course” her acting XO Ronald Guyan explained “we found you far behind our lines.”
“Lucky I went that way” she remarked “did my sensor data make it?”
“Yes sir” Guyan said triumphantly. It wouldn’t bring back their lost people but it would help pay for medical bills and keep the Marauders solvent at least for a little longer.
“We need to exercise our escape clause” she groaned lifting from the bed only for Guyan to make her lay back down.
“It’s already done” he said she looked at him quizzically “we currently have three fully operational BattleMechs another five in various states of repair and four tanks we’re not going to win any battles and you are a member of the dispossessed.”
“I can get another Mech from my own emergency fund, you know this, our money should be enough to repair our assets even without the Intelligence Scans. We just need to get out of this meatgrinder and off the border to rest and refit before the Lyrans have an idea of impounding our assets for “the war.”
“I know which is why I’ve already turned down three attempts to buy our salvage and refused further operations.” He said showing he was confident, capable and interested in keeping his new job.
“How did the others get out?”
“The Heavy Cavalry are looking at 50% losses they’ve already packed up and headed for Galatea, the Twelfth Armoured came out very well I’d say 75% or higher survival rate. They’ve already accepted another mission from the Lyrans” he said he could see she was impressed “they are also the ones who tried to put us permanently out of business trying to buy all our battle salvage and two damaged BattleMechs.”
“Why would they want to put another merc out of business like that?” She wondered “fine we’re heading for Solaris VII we need a break from this fighting and some neutral ground while we try and figure out our next move.”
“Anywhere away from the Falcons?”
“Neg, they’ve tried to destroy this unit as Barber’s Marauders and now as Millie’s Marauders. The Falcons need to learn we’re not giving up that easy.”
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Elsewhere the Lyrans reel away from Odessa losing two-line regiments of troops, two WarShips confirmed destroyed and another the LCS Skye heavily damaged. The SLDF lose a WarShip and suffer heavy damage to the Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser SLS Wasp which had shielded SLDF units from the heaviest damage during the retreat. With the Fourth Royal Light Infantry taking the most damage losing nearly two thirds of their forces to the Jade Falcons. Within days of the loss two further systems fall to the Jade Falcons as the Clan pushes deeper into Lyran territory.
Titanic, Sea Fox-class ArcShip
Moon Orbit, Atreus
District of Marik, Free Worlds League
23rd July 3112
In a matched orbit with the moon of the world Atreus the Sea Fox WarShips Titanic and her escort ships Mako and Dreamfyre sat silently watched by the MS Concordia and her escorts. The Sea Fox vessels were not here however as aggressors instead they were delivering an important guest. Attached to the WarShip was a Broadsword-class DropShip the DDS Cantabria a vessel of the Military forces of Dieron Lady Abigail Cleburn stood at the observation windows and looked at the seat of parliament for the Free Worlds League.
“Do you think they will agree to our proposals?”
“I do not know” the clan warrior/trader Sandra admitted “it is a bold thing that you and your people have proposed. You have my Khanate’s full support whichever way it goes we will ensure your return to the District of Dieron.”
“I know you will I appreciate that Sandra the Sea Fox support for my people has been very appreciated.”
“Our support is not without a cost Lady Cleburn. The Foxes will expect to receive their reward regardless of the outcome today. If not then the consequences could be dire” the Sea Fox warrior warned Abigail Cleburn nodded she understood as did Empress Emiko Kurita and Warlord Akira Tormark the price was a trade of an entire solar system from Dieron’s to Sea Fox control.
“As I understand Nirasaki’s government has already began to transfer control to Sea Fox officials, why you would want such a planet I have no idea it’s not as though the population have ever shown any interest in anything but their own little world.”
“Exactly it is close enough to Dieron for it to be useful for our dealings with your people and it is a gateway system to the Star League Protectorate meaning we can use it as a place to make deals and transport items into the League. The local government’s lack of interest in anything but what affects Nirasaki makes it a near perfect candidate for my Clan.” Sandra said deciding to press further “it is also an insignificant world, if Dieron falls none of the states around it including the Draconis Combine will care that it has been lost.”
“You’re probably correct.” Lady Cleburn said intentionally using the contraction to annoy the Clansmen.
“Good luck with your negotiations” Sandra said deciding the conversation was over for now.
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Hours later Lady Abigail Cleburn and her negotiation team had agreed a trade agreement between the Free Worlds League and District of Dieron. With this trade agreement Free Worlds League based companies would be allowed to open mining facilities in the District of Dieron while Dieron companies would be allowed to do the same in the FWL as long as both they hired local workers. Military contractors on both sides would be allowed to bid for defence contracts while both nations would be allowed to bid on mercenary units based in each others realms. Facilitating the link between the two nations would be the Sea Foxes who would be allowed to pass through the neighbouring nations without incident in exchange they would be gain full control over Nirasaki in the District of Dieron and over Ideyid in the District of Marik of the Free Worlds League. The Sea Foxes already had deep links into Ideyid after having a trade base there for several years and forging links with the local population. In the Free Worlds League the populations of Mundrabilla and Shasta which also have Sea Fox populations are noticeably concerned by the expansion of Sea Fox control on the world of Ideyid with dozens of members of the populace planning to move out of the system.
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Welcome back, Dragon Cat! Your stories of another universe have been sorely missed.
I'm wagering those SLDF troopers that assassinated saKhan Kell were Blakist.
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great update... glad your Back
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Thanks to you both I've never stopped just priorities and living arrangements a bit different now. I also suffered some writers block when I hit Odessa could not figure that one out
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Wonderful to see this back! And lots of goings on, I have a feeling though that the folks who caused a stir on Tukkayid were not Sharks.
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Wonderful to see this back! And lots of goings on, I have a feeling though that the folks who caused a stir on Tukkayid were not Sharks.
Good to see you back DC.
I'm thinking Blakest or Society.
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Clan Wolf Council
Clan Council Chambers, Sheridan
Wolf Empire
1st August 3112
With their Khans dead Clan Wolf had to elect new Khans meaning that all bloodnamed members of the Clan had been recalled to the recently completed Clan Council Chambers on Sheridan. The chambers were based on those that had once been constructed on Strana Mechty and on Tamar infact much of the materials used to build these chambers had been used on Tamar allowing the Wolves to maintain their connection to the path they had taken. Recently with the inclusion of the Exiles into their Clan there had been calls for an additional wing to be added to the facility using materials which had been used when building the Exile facilities on Arc Royal but with the death of Evan Kell those calls had already fallen away.
“I am Gloria Shaw, the Loremaster of Clan Wolf, we have taken great losses some that would be the death of some Clans but not of Clan Wolf. The loss of Amina Kerensky and of Evan Kell were body blows to this Clan” she said her huge hulking Elemental frame stood strongly infront of the couple of hundred bloodnamed warriors she was all that was left of their leadership but now a new beginning was going to happen. “Today we will elect new leadership from among your number but first I must also announce that the SLDF’s Third Special Operation’s Group were intercepted on Dieudonne by forces under the command of Star Colonel Jerricho. The Dark Keshik has almost been destroyed but these unblooded warriors proved the capability of Clan Wolf and the strength of our future.
“SEYLA!” The entire crowd of Wolves called at once.
“Seyla” Gloria Shaw repeated “Bloodhouses announce your candidates for the Khanship of Clan Wolf. If there is no concensus by vote of the Bloodnamed these warriors should stand ready to fight for command of this Clan.”
“I am Star Colonel Edna Metha leader of my Bloodhouse. Our vote is combined with that of Ryde, Ch’in, Sradac and Conners to elect Merrick Sradac to the post of Khan.” She said naming the Elemental warrior representing lesser bloodhouses he had little chance of leading Clan Wolf.
“You are welcome to contend” Gloria Shaw said diplomatically all knew that his position was a minor one.
“I am Galaxy Commander Linda Kerensky in the footsteps of Amina Kerensky and of the founder, I call for Sebastian Kerensky to be the next Khan of Clan Wolf.” Even with only the backing of the Kerensky Bloodhouse Sebastian Kerensky had a greater claim than Merrick Sradac.
“I am Cabe Kell, my bloodhouse leader is dead killed at the hands of the Star League Defence Force. I will see all Inner Sphere forces fall to Clan Wolf guns.” He said Cabe Kell was a young man wearing the field uniform of a Clan Wolf MechWarrior.
“What is your rank young warrior?” Gloria Shaw asked
“I have yet to attain a rank in Clan Wolf. I have fought and defeated Jade Falcons, Lyrans and Star League forces. I am ready to fight against Wolves if I must but I would rather unite our Clan and defeat our enemies.”
“Seyla” Gloria Shaw said nodding approvingly her approval would give him a chance but his lack of rank or previous leadership would hurt him. “Are there any other challengers?” Shaw asked there were none over the next hour the Wolves debated which warrior had the best standing and examined each warrior’s codex in minute detail they quickly eliminated Merrick Sradac finding that he had commanded a unit of warriors that had failed in a mission to eliminate a group of the dark caste leaving only Cade Kell and Sebastian Kerensky. As was often the case with Clan politics Bloodhouses that were in a strong position often stayed there despite the Kell’s status as an Exile Bloodhouse and its short history it still rallied many of the Wolves to its call. While the Kerensky name was unquestioned as was the eventual result.
“I am Sebastian Kerensky I respect the challenge put up by Cade Kell but his time is not now. We are in a precarious position we must solidify our position before trying to expand again.” The Kerensky Bloodhouse candidate state in his closing argument.
“I am Cade Kell, I am young, I am inexperienced in command but I also believe that Clan Wolf must continue on the path began by Amina Kerensky and supported by Evan Kell. The Star League Defence Force is an affront to what the Clans stand for it must fall.”
“SEYLA!” The Wolves around him cried
“I said when this began, I will fight Wolves who are not willing to fight for Clan Wolf’s position in the Inner Sphere.”
“Then you will have to kill at least one. I challenge you to a Circle of Equals may no other enter.”
“I accept, single shot pistols at twenty paces tomorrow at dawn.” Cade Kell said smiling as he saw the other warrior’s reaction of surprise few people would pick such weapons when only a couple of shots would result in a kill.
“Agreed” Sebastian Kerensky said
“SEYLA!” The Wolves around them cried in unison.
The next morning Sebastian Kerensky and Cade Kell stood with their backs to each other both holding high calibre pistols. At the beat of a drum they each took ten paces apart stopping on the tenth each waited half a second before turning on the spot and taking their shot. Sebastian Kerensky turned faster than Cade and fired first the bullet hitting the young exile mid-turn hitting his right shoulder destroying the joint and mangling his arm knocking him off balance and to the ground. The event was broadcast across the Wolf Empire by HPG. Sebastian Kerensky raised his weapon in celebration and turned to face the Tri-vid cameras as he did the bullet from Cade Kell’s weapon struck him in the armpit of his raised arm the bullet travelled quickly through the joint and penetrated Sebastian Kerensky’s skull killing the warrior instantly. The last thing the Tri-vid cameras showed was a victorious Cade Kell laying on the ground being tended to by Wolf medics assuming he could make a recovery and prove he was still able to fight he would be the new Clan Wolf Khan. Hours after the battle word was passed that Cade Kell’s arm had been amputated and that he needed a new limb grown.
Parliament
Atreus, District of Marik
Free Worlds League
4th August 3112
“The question was quite clear Duke Brewer-Cameron-Jones.” Captain-General Abraham Ledford asked looking at the other man.
“Are there surviving elements of Clan Smoke Jaguar on the world of Twin Sons in the system of the same name?”
“Yes” Duke Raymond Brewer-Cameron-Jones responded throughout the Parliament chamber there was a wave of surprise. “These people are survivors of the holocaust that was inflicted on their people…”
“A justified end to them!” Someone shouted out
“Remember Edo!” Another shouted
“Silence, you will allow the District of Lesnovo’s leader to speak. Continue” the Captain-General said as leader of the neighbouring District of Bowang Ledford had a keen interest in hearing exactly what influence these Jaguars had.
“These people have helped bring peace to the Twin Sons system a system that has been at a state of internal conflict since its colonisation by House Marik. The Jaguars make up a tiny portion of their population.”
“But they have gained power with their ‘bringing the peace’?” Ledford asked
“That is correct Khan Petra Furey…” he said he heard several gasp again at hearing the Clan rank “Khan Petra Furey has dedicated her people to defending Twin Sons and improving the lives of all peoples on that world and in our District. These people are not the Smoke Jaguars who invaded the Inner Sphere most of them now were born on Twin Sons, they have fought and bled for the people of that system not some distant leader who believes in the conquest of the Inner Sphere. I accept their support for my nation and offer them the full protection of my District.”
“Treason!” One shouted out
“Then perhaps someone also judge this parliament for continuing to accept Sea Foxes on our worlds iand in our space.” The Duke said continuing meeting the eyes of others in the crowd “each of you have voted time and again to accept weapons and trade shipments from Clan Sea Fox. In some cases we have openly seeked their trade these Jaguars are no different.”
“History tells us different things.” Jonas Halas said
“History is written by the victors” Joseph Marik said speaking up for the first time. “We cannot and we will not forget Edo but I believe we should judge these people for their own accomplishments not on what known history tells us.” While not the Captain-General Duke Joseph Marik’s stature and lineage place him in good standing with the Parliament. Captain-General Ledford did not disagree with Duke Marik and called a vote Ledford’s, Joseph Marik’s and Robert Brett-Marik’s full support the motion was passed by the Parliament to accept the Smoke Jaguars as members of the District of Lesnov to be used at the will of Duke Raymond Brewer-Cameron-Marik and the government of Lesnovo.
Border raids
Kessel, Kessel Prefecture
District of Dieron
11th August 3112
MechWarrior Kiyoshi Fuwa spun his Dragon BattleMech to the right away from the Lyran Thanatos but felt his BattleMech be peppered by medium range missiles and lasers. The Fifth and Seventeenth Isle of Skye Guards RCTs had arrived on Kessel two days before and had quickly moved on the defenders taking key defensive points. Fuwa turned on the Thanatos and returned the attack but the Dragon wasn’t a match for the heavier and faster Lyran Mech more lasers and missiles cut into his BattleMech causing damage across its BattleMech’s form.
On the ground passing behind the back of Kiyoshi Fuwa’s Dragon a fast-moving hovercraft with Lyran markings shot past quickly opening fire with multiple SRMs the Dieron pilot attempted to follow the hovercraft but his distraction allowed the Thanatos to unload another salvo into the Dragon ending its fight. Across Kessel similar battles had worked out as the Lyrans quickly secured the Prefecture Capital along with Komephoros and Alraski while also striking at La Blon, Kimball II and Konstance.
The loss of these worlds sends shockwaves throughout the District of Dieron as worlds begin questioning the Districts ability to keep them safe from harm with some worlds covertly contacting neighbouring realms and looking for other nations to step in and assist them. The worlds of Kimball II and Konstance now isolated due to the loss of Kessel even go as far as to contacting the Rasalhague Dominion. The Bears see this as an invitation and immediately deploy two clusters of warriors to these worlds securing them for the Rasalhague Dominion.
Pirate raid
Bandon, New Port Royal9
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
13th August 3112
As the Nova Cat’s continue assaults against the Taurian Concordat capturing the system of Tyrrhenia they are attacked from outside as they face Trials of Possession with the Federated Suns for the systems of Belogost, Kiza and McRae. The Nova Cat’s succeed in holding Kiza but losing both Belogost and McRae.
Meanwhile on the world of New Tortuga pirate forces assault the Nova Cat settlement of Bandon with a motley collection of pirate vehicles razing the entire settlement of ten thousand citizens in one attack. Before the Nova Cat defenders of the 109th Strike Cluster could attend the site of the attack as a result of the attack Star Colonel Lin Bavros is executed by the Nova Cats leadership for failing to defend a system deep within the Nova Cat’s Den. Within a week of the attack Rossei’s Triumph and Fletcher’s Feast are also attacked with a small arms factory on Rossei’s Triumph ransacked and an armoured vehicle factory attacked on Fletcher’s Feast. On Fletchers the 68th Nova Cat Roar Cluster intercept the pirates and capture several of the pirates. After lengthy interrogations the pirates are identified from Morghui a moon located in a periphery system far from any other nation.
Trial of Possession
Sea Fox Shipyards, Jarnfolk space
Periphery
23rd August 3112
The pair of Clan Lynx Batu OmniFighters spun and manoeuvred away from the Sea Fox Avar OmniFighters as they attempted to defend their claim to the Shipyards below. This Trial of Possession had been declared by the Lynx Clan and so far, their heavier fighters had the advantage over the lighter faster Sea Fox aircraft.
Turning to the left a pair of laser beams fired from the Batus hit one of the Avar’s mid-line across its hull the high energy beams shattered the aerospace fighters hull blowing it apart. The second craft barrel rolled away unleashing a salvo of short-range missiles which slammed into the cockpit of one of the Batus opening it to space.
The remaining Batu continued to turn evasively avoiding follow up laser fire from the Avar the Batu inverted its rear laser firing at the Avar but missing. More missiles followed the Lynx craft causing armour damage but not enough to take it out of the fight instead the Batu pilot used its reaction control thrusters to spin on the spot and fired multiple pulse laser blasts into the Avar knocking the smaller fighter out winning the Lynx Clan the Trial. From the victory the Lynx Clan won the right to build a newly designed seventy-ton Aerospace Fighter named the Gaugamela.
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The Gaugamela Aerospace Fighter
https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=2828.0 (https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=2828.0)
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Yay, this was a nice update! Thank you and Happy New Year!
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Welcome back, Dragon Cat!
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nice update... also good to see you back
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Superb as always!
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Combat Drop
Las Halles, District of Oriente
Free Worlds League
8th September 3112
The skies of Las Halles was filled with falling snow and falling BattleMechs as the Eagle’s Talons Regiment approached the surface of the world. Marshal Richard Steiner looked into the sky and watched the BattleMech’s fall behind them several DropShips approached the surface of the planet.
“A bit of a flashy entrance” Colonel Sofia Bukhalova said looking into the air.
“Make sure out perimeter guards are alert tonight and have an extra battalion on standby just in case.”
“You think they’ll test our LZ?”
“I think they’ll want to make sure they are noticed.”
“We had a planned training session with the militia.”
“Cancel it, no-one leaves the LZ until we figure out where the Talons are coming from.”
“Understood” she said as the last of the Mechs disappeared from sight landing behind them the DropShips were still initiating their landing sequences.
“I’ll contact Prefect Smit and explain that we do not mean hostile intent towards the Eagle’s Talons. With any luck their JumpShips could get us off the border and heading home.” Marshal Richard Steiner suggested the Colonel looked at him like he’d just said something funny. “Yeah, silly hope.”
As they’d suggested the Eagle’s Talons refused to give them the transports needed to get the unit back to the Federated Suns instead the FWL unit set up with the militia in a defensive pattern and called for an end to all joint operations with the Kathil Uhlans. They did not however stop the First Kathil Uhlans continuing to trade with local businesses for supplies.
Almost two weeks after the arrival of the Eagle’s Talons the First ComGuard Brigade, the SLS Firedrake and the SLS Siberia arrived in the system. They had been deployed following the FSS Comet’s arrival at New Olympica and arrived to ensure that units of the two Star League states did not come to blows. The added manpower from the Eagles Talons and SLDF also added a massive amount of extra business to the economy of Las Halles.
Proving Ground
Haven, Colleen system
Deep Periphery, Clan Homeworlds
10th September 3112
Standing with saKhan Mira Collesano of the Blood Spirits and Goliath Scorpion Khan Ingo Yeh the Blood Spirit Khan Alex Lassenum stood watching as two Blood Spirit MechWarriors and two Goliath Scorpion Warriors battled in four new Obsidian Mantis OmniMechs. The Obsidian Mantis was a new sixty-ton OmniMech developed by the Blood Spirits to reinforce their lines.
“Impressive designs” Ingo Yeh said “I appreciate your Clan sharing some of the production with mine.”
“Too much shared” Mira Coollesano said she was annoyed that Alex Lassenum had agreed to supply the Goliath Scorpions.
“We will begin our next deployment very soon” Ingo Yeh said.
“Where are you targeting next?”
“Huntress then we are going to reinforce our forces on Hector.” Yeh explained recently things had moved forwards for the Clans in their struggle against the Society now the Blood Spirits and Goliath Scorpions had holdings on New Kent, Hector, Sheridan and Glory with both Clans running supply missions to their forces there. While the Clans couldn’t claim dominance over any of the worlds, they had more say in those systems development than any other. “Where are your Blood Spirits hitting next?”
“There is a rumour that the Society is developing a new type of WarShip we are going to have a look at their facilities at Brim.”
“That place is a fortress Khan Lassenum.”
“Aff, Khan Yeh, which is why it is our target.” Mira Collesano explained “we will cut off this new threat while we can.”
“I wish you well” Yeh said as the two battles below them finished the two Clans had shared the honours in the battle with both a Blood Spirit and Goliath Scorpion warrior claiming victory. “I hope this is a good sign for both of our peoples.
Jade Falcon Offensive
Isle of Skye, Kirkcaldy
Lyran Commonwealth
13th September 3112
Following a successful blitzkrieg campaign that had seen the Lyrans brutally occupy Knockengen, Hillerod, Porrima and Veckholm the destruction of two front-line units and of two Lyran WarShips at the cost of one of their own WarShips and the majority of three Clusters the Jade Falcons were on the verge of breaking into the Isle of Skye region of the Lyran Commonwealth with an attack on Kirkcaldy.
Intent on scouting the system before launching a full assault the Jade Falcon’s elite Eighth Falcon Jaegers Cluster fast burn onto the planet avoiding Lyran aerospace forces landing near Fife City they move on the positions occupied by the Sixth Commonwealth Guards RCT only to be pounded by artillery fired by the unit’s armour battalion and several Trutzburg-class DropShips. Each of the DropShips was armed with three turreted Long Tom Artillery pieces which together essentially added a second artillery battalion to the armour forces firepower. This barrage of fire was enhanced by the Sixth’s two armour regiments which were dug into the hillside and were sniping at the Clan force.
Following the artillery barrage came the Sixth’s Mech and Battle Armour regiments which tear into the disorientated Clan Cluster. Normally an elite Clan Cluster would be a match for a Veteran Inner Sphere Regiment but facing the majority of an RCT alone the Eighth Falcon Jaegers essentially cease to be in the heavy fighting. As well as the Trutzburg’s debut the Lyrans also are able to deploy a new BattleMech during the fighting the fifty-five-ton Eisenkanone. Inspired by the Hollander and Hollander II BattleMechs the Eisenkanone is an example of the “one big gun” philosophy of BattleMech design although it is slow for its weight Class the BattleMech brings an Improved Heavy Gauss Rifle to the battlefield, a weapon normally only seen on certain heavy and assault units, making it a threat to BattleMechs several tons heavier when used correctly.
Battlefield, SLDF Lines
Belle Isle, Taurian Concordat
18th September 3112
Sergeant Alberto Ammann hefted his Federated-Boeing AR-72 Assault rifle from one side of the trench to the other targeting a group of incoming Clan Nova Cat battle armour with Mechs in support. Alberto was a member of the Fourth Royal Infantry Regiment and a member of the detachment of the Brigade that had been sent to Belle Isle elsewhere members of the Star League unit had been deployed to support the defence of the Concordat. He personally found it hilarious that he and his men were members of the SLDF a modern organisation that had been created to defend the Inner Sphere from the Clans. The Clans were descendants of the original SLDF who's own decedents had fought to subjugate the Taurian Concordat which now the Nova Cats were fighting to do. The Fourth Royal Regimental Brigade was spread all over the Concordat supporting the Taurians. “Here they come boys now all of you remember target those battle suits by the squad it’s the only way to penetrate their armour.” He commanded snapping back to reality watching the Clans close.
“ARROW! ARROW! ARROW!” The warning suddenly blasted over every radio in the vicinity. For a moment the SLDF troopers froze not sure how to react to the Taurian accented voice. An “Arrow” launch code in Taurian space meant one thing someone had fired a nuclear weapon in their direction.
“Masks on!” Alberto Ammann screamed at his men after a moment “Seal your ****** armour and get the hell into that trench!” He screamed as the full realisation of what was going on. “Com’on move it, now! Eat the dirt” he said as the men hurriedly pulled radiation masks over their uniform and tried to close any gaps Alberto himself was doing the same thing. The belief was that the masks and seals would be enough to keep the radiation out for long enough to get themselves back to a base where it could be washed off but few of them believed it. “This isn’t a drill do it now!” He continued to shout in the sky above him there was a ferocious roar as the missile flew overhead Alberto took one final look at the incoming Clansmen before diving into the trench. Once as low as he could get, he hurriedly pulled a silver blanket which was designed to protect him from the heat blast over his body. Alberto keyed his mic one more time “Keep down boys and girls wait out the coming storm” he said as the missile hit it’s target nearly two kilometres away hitting the Nova Cat Landing Zone destroying their DropShips and sending a wave of fire and radiation out.
The blast quickly passed over the joint SLDF/Taurian Cocordat lines flipping over vehicles and knocking over BattleMechs. For a few moments’ screams filled the radios as ill prepared troopers were caught up by the blast wave before everything went silent as the following EMP fried unprepared circuits.
The Nova Cats who were closest to the blast were almost all killed or crippled by the blast while nearly a third of the SLDF detachment had been killed by the blast. In the hours after the missile attack all SLDF forces pull off Belle Isle by the command of General Marta Mallozzi as the SLDF pulled back from the front-lines demanding that the Taurians lock away their remaining nuclear weapons. In the coming days the Nova Cats returned to Belle Isle destroying the First Taurian Pride Regiment days after the Nova Cats also landed on Mirfak assaulting the Taurian Concordat forces their but being driven back as the Taurians defended the Germanium deposits there using nuclear weapons to cripple the Nova Cat WarShip Excalibur in the system.
Coordinator’s quarters, Imperial Palace
Imperial City, New Samarkand
Military District of Midway, Draconis Combine
22nd September 3112
After a year imprisoned in the Imperial Palace on New Samarkand having gotten through a spate of depression Akira Kurita was ready to retake his place as leader of the Draconis Combine unfortunately the guards were all loyal to Hirohito Kurita so he and his wife Julia would have to act alone.
“You are ready” Akira said to her as they waited for the guards to arrive with their daily food. Julia nodded her response playing the subservient wife that the Combine guards had come to accept few of them knew she was trained in the martial art of Kung Fu. Their guards had attempted to put cameras in their quarters but Akira had broken them they may have been aware of Akira’s attempts at training her in Karate but they had no idea about her own abilities.
The doors to their quarters opened and as was expected of them both Akira and Julia Kurita stood at the door and bowed to them as the two guards in dress uniform entered after all this time all they had on them were their side arms and ceremonial katana and wakizashi swords. Both guards bowed out of respect for the Kurita family and that was when they acted Akira took the guard on the right while Julia took the one on the left both striking out at the same time. The guards were momentarily taken by surprise staggering backwards but staying on their feet it then became a battle of skills and strength. Akira was stronger than his guard but his guard was armed and quickly reached for his sidearm which Akira kicked away immediately the guard reached for his katana only for Akira to strike the guard several times knocking him backwards the sword falling to the floor. As he reacted to Akira’s attack the former Coordinator of the Draconis Combine rolled across the floor snatching the Katana blade into his hand as he did completing his roll he brought the weapon around in a circular motion cutting down the guard in a singular blow.
Meanwhile Julia had used her speed to avoid her guard’s blows ducking and rolling while striking out at her opponent as he drew his sidearm instead of knocking the weapon away, she rapidly disarmed him gaining control over the weapon she fired several shots cutting him down. Without time to waste they moved towards the door Akira picked up the other guards sidearm as he stepped through the door which allowed him to miss the shots fired at the doors by the other guards. Julia was not so lucky as she stepped out of the door two shots struck her in the chest her weapon falling to the ground as she lost her grip and staggered under the fire Akira raised his weapon and fired at the incoming guards killing one while he watched his wife fall to the floor he could tell she was dead before she hit the ground.
The Coordinator screamed in anger firing several more shots down the corridor cutting down another guard before taking one last look at his falled partner. Finally knowing there was nothing he could do but escape he turned and ran into the Imperial Palace searching for a way out. Several hours of searching later the guards had failed to locate Coordinator Akira Kurita he had found a way to leave the Palace without being seen and was now somewhere in the Imperial City. Coordinator Hirohito Kurita commanded that the Imperial City be placed under martial law until the “fugitive” was brought to justice.
Meeting House,
Mopelia Island, New Earth
Star League Protectorate
25th September 3112
A group of nine members sat around a wooden table with a book in the centre of the table. It was a copy of the Clans Remembrance once that had once belonged to Clan Smoke Jaguar and was known among the people sat there as The Unopened Book. As far as the people gathered today were concerned it was the last known copy of the Smoke Jaguar Remembrance but today’s news appeared to cast doubt on that fact.
On the Tri-vid screen beside them was a recording of the recent Free Worlds League Parliament in which the District of Lesnovo had publicly declared that members of Clan Smoke Jaguar not only lived but were flourishing in the Free Worlds League.
“Custos, we must meet with this Khan” one member of the group said looking at the leader of the group who must have been close to one hundred years old. Clearly an elemental by birth with an artificial arm replacing one that had been lost in previous combat.
“We must not, they are not Smoke Jaguars, the Smoke Jaguar Clan is dead. If they are anything than they are dark caste who have no name to claim but a dead one.” Another said angrily that was the opinions of the two sides of the Fidelis movement one who was happy to see their people live in peace on New Earth and the other that wished for them to go out and face those who challenged them.
“Our agreement with the Star League Defence Force is quite clear” Custos said quietly “we have supported the people of New Earth in their time of need.” He said referring to the terrorist bombings that had rocked the world in 3092. “But the moment that we deploy forces off of New Earth we become an armed force of the Star League Defence Force they can call on our forces until our debts are paid. They did not have to give us sanctuary on this world Bannister Cameron could have turned us away he did not our debts are great.”
“We already have elements off this planet.”
“Flatus is not a threat to anyone the Star League know this they allow us to keep her to humour themselves.”
“If only they knew” another said smiling the Star League knew about their WarShip hidden in the asteroid belt they believed it was tethered to one of the largest asteroids there and hadn’t been serviced or moved since it’s arrival. What they didn’t know was that the Fidelis had built a support structure around it, repaired, serviced and modified the vessel to a modern standard making it far more of a match for other vessels.
“They are also happy for us to supply them with BattleMechs from the Yankee facility.”
“And turn a blind eye to some of our other facilities.” Custos reminded them “I am not against investigating these Jaguars claims but we must weigh the costs to our people.” He said finally a vote was taken shortly afterwards and a decision was made the Fidelis would travel to the District of Lesnovo and discover more about these would be Jaguars.
Open Space near Galatea Station
SLDS Prometheus, Isegrim-class DropShip
Galatea, Star League Protectorate
30th September 3112
“This is Captain Bruce Boxleitner of the DropShip Prometheus to District of Dieron forces you have entered Star League Defence Force claimed space. Galatea and its station are off-limits to hostilities. Further action by your forces will result in your destruction.” He said cutting the communication channel from his command chair “copy that message to the station and to the Subtlety.”
“Subtlety has said they are standing by should anything bigger come through.”
“We’ll holler if we need them” he said looking at the screens seeing the squadron of fighters from the station were staying close.
“Communication from the Dieron vessel their entry into this system was in error Lyran forces from the Lyons system were retreating and they believed they had come through here.”
“Reply that their message is understood and as they can see they have not entered this system and that if they wish to push the matter the McKenna-class Battleship behind us will happily answer them.”
“Most of the Subtlety’s weapons manned by cadets.”
“They don’t know that” the Captain said “target the forward guns see if that gets the message across.”
“Message from Galatea Station to the Dieron forces, it’s the Governor, he’s offering them an option to retreat with their equipment intact or face the wolf.” The communications officer said Boxleitner smiled at the response when the SLDF had assigned him here to help transition the people from the Lyran Commonwealth to the SLDF he hadn’t been too sure if he’d like Governor O’Hare but the two of them had fit together quite well. Now as Dieron and Skye exchanged blows, and systems, it appeared that they’d have to work even closer together. In the most recent attacks Lyons had been captured by Dieron while six other systems, seven if Galatea was included, had been raided as the District of Dieron attempted to assert itself with its neighbours.
“Message from JumpShips they are recalling their DropShips and standing down.”
“Very good, stand down weapons and begin deacceleration bring us down to one G. The fighters can dock at the recharge station to refuel.” He said smiling over the last six months engineering teams had completed the system’s first recharge station a cut down version of the Olympus-class stations it featured no common areas for visitors instead it was purely a fuelling station for JumpShips, WarShips and DropShips. Anyone wishing to stay in the system had to travel to Galatea Station to conclude their business. Due to traffic in the system already there were plans for a second recharge station and talk of a second station on the scale of Galatea Station being built the system’s primary inhabited world may have been abandoned but this system was very much a light in the constant night of space.
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I borrowed a couple of unit's for this month's update
The Eisenkanone
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=64042.0 (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=64042.0)
And the
The Obsidian Mantis
https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=3506.msg43953#msg43953 (https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=3506.msg43953#msg43953)
It's in the thread title but my thanks to the builders
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Thank You Dragon Cat. MA is the original author and graciously allowed my tinkering.
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I'm kinda surprised that General Marta Mallozzi, doesn't understand that the Taurian Concordat is treating these clan "pirate" forces just as the scum they are. The Spectre started this when they did an Endor level event, Nova Cats have escalated with their hits on Taurian Concordat.
But then I'm shocked that there was no Sphere wide outrage about the Spectre Assault.
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Why the SLDF were surprised will be revealed
As for the Sceptre the Ravens have publicly cast them out so they don't get attacked they've admitted they built the ship everyone knows it the Taurians hitting the Cats started this little fight after the Sceptres raid on Sterope the Sceptre has done a terrible thing but they can't be found at the moment so the Taurians vented on the Nova Cats by using WMDs so the Nova Cats are retaliating
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See I disagree
I don't remember the Raven claim it was a rogue ship, right like there been rogue Clan forces operating a brand new ship. I don't recall the Raven offering the Taurians anything or help, dealing with the effects their Rogues caused.
This caused the Taurians to public announce they were going to treat the clan forces as pirate scums they now shown to be. Nova Cats decided to come a prey on the Taurians, and then were shocked when they were treated like Pirate Scum the Spectre showed us all clanner are.
This whole WMD arguement, if Nova Cats truly beleive that. They never cared about it, and taken them weapons off the table before the TC brought out weapons to deal with a clanners who basicly killed off a whole planet, Endor style. And are now wiping out whole military units, because of which TC is fighting fire with NUKE Fire.
I love your AU setting DC just feel that rest of sphere, show little or no shock/horror at "Rogue" Clanner ship that killed off a whole planet. there was much more outrage in the canon of the Smoke Kitty orbital bombardment
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I love that you love the story and that you're challenging my choices
Its in the main story but in this piece the Ravens cast them out
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=58286.msg1343116#msg1343116 (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=58286.msg1343116#msg1343116)
As for the reaction compared to Turtle Bay
During the Clan invasion a united response occurred because everyone was looking at the Clans and scared
Now it's less so the Clans are a problem all over many nation's have large borders with the Clans, the Combine just had a district break away, the Lyrans capital is threatened and that have clans on three borders, the FWL is too far away and is dealing with their own issues and the Capellans haven't really been looking beyond their own border, the only ones assisting are the SLDF and even they have Wolves pushing into their territory
I've created a more broken Inner Sphere than the 3050s
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DC, I'm glad you respond to my challenging you
No where can I find that Raven's Publicly admited to Sphere that they lost to Rogue Forces the Spectre and nope can I find nor has anyone else referenced it.
In that story when the info got out it was spread far wide.
Days later across Dothan and from there across the Federated Suns gun camera footage of Banacek’s forces tearing apart the final lance of defenders on Dothan was repeatedly broadcast by news agencies leading to demands of immediate action in response as worlds cried out for additional defences.
Which is why the story of what they did in the TC, got out there should have been more outrage if not sphere wide at least in FS. There should been at least taskforce assigned to hunt it, it would have been nice if a joint FS/Raven and hopefully TC.
The Clans Pirate Scum, in my mind have not helped themselves here, 1st by "not offering help" to the TC after 1 of their own did what they did Endor Style. Remember that when Edo was bombarded the sheer barbarity of this action shocked even the most hard-line Crusaders, I can't believe that Endor Style event on a Sterope by Rogue clanners who not have even the same effect. I'm not sure we've seen a planet killed off in your AU, this wasn't a simple orbital bombardment which is what Nova Smoked Kitty has done to both TDF and SLDF forces but a total/near total kill of a Sterope. Second why Nova Kitty reached a paw in to hit the TC when they publicly declared all clan forces pirate [kinda like when clans declared someone - Dezgra], and got burnt for it after , they all publicly backed the Nova Smoked Kitty and agreed that the TC force are now Dezgra, because they won't fight this war on Clans Pirate Scum rules only after cost them already 5 planets.
I keep waiting for the TC authorize the TMI, to deploy a Special Task Force(s) to show the "heirs of the old Star League, why messing with the TC was a bad idea". They all agreed that Nova Smoked Kitty are "doing" the right thing and have told the SLDF that don't do another Operation Serpent on Nova Kitty because we all support them, so they are all now as guilty. Deploy them to all possible clan "safe" spaces and start show them what this total war that they all now support means to them personally.
How we got Here (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=52013.msg1434410#msg1434410).
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Great update DC, the Wolf story is really starting to get interesting. And TC/CNC thing seems to really be heating up. :D
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DOC_Argen ill always reply
sorry wrong bit linked to it was supposed to be the first post
“The Raven Khan has declared us rogue for our actions in the New Samarkand system.”
The crew were cast out by those events that the Ravens made loud and clear were having nothing to do with you
When Sceptre is found there will be a reckoning just just not everyone's priority right now
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DOC_Argen DOC_Agrenill always reply
sorry wrong bit linked to it was supposed to be the first post
The crew were cast out by those events that the Ravens made loud and clear were having nothing to do with you
But was that spread wide across the sphere, or just within the clan. IE did they publicly tell DC, FS, TC, or even Nova Cats, yeah we just lost to Rogue members of our clan, our latest newest warship.
When Sceptre is found there will be a reckoning just just not everyone's priority right now
I should hope so, of course now they found home with Smoked Kitty leftovers, so that encounter should be interesting. Not that it in good shape now.
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But was that spread wide across the sphere, or just within the clan. IE did they publicly tell DC, FS, TC, or even Nova Cats, yeah we just lost to Rogue members of our clan, our latest newest warship.
In the DC's capital system on an open channel (ie. broadcast publicly), they said, and I'll paraphrase slightly, "Surrender or be subject to annihilation." Clanners aren't going to parse that out to Spheroids assuming they know what is meant - and considering the length of time the clans have been in the Inner Sphere, every power should know what is meant by this. I'll suggest that the Taurians are the most likely to not understand the meaning of the situation, as they are quite inward focussed, but to the clans, everyone's been told.
I'm also, generally, a proponent of off-screen actions. Dragon Cat has stated they have been publicly condemned, therefore it has happened, just because it didn't happen on-screen, doesn't mean it didn't occur (there's been a number of examples of off-screen actions we don't hear about until their results are made public). That is also where I'm at with a potential task force ordered to track the Sceptre down, we may not hear about it until the task force lands itself in deep water or the confrontation with the Sceptre occurs.
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Landing Zone, Zack Rayz (Leopard-class DropShip)
Prato, District of Bowang
Free Worlds League
9th October 3112
The modified Leopard-class DropShip Zack Rayz came to a stop on the world of Preto near the single-story building that was laughingly called a Spaceport Control building on the Periphery world of the Free Worlds League. Prato was benefiting from increased public spending with the increased profitability of the District of Bowang but its spaceport was yet to improve. From the DropShip five BattleMechs and a group of five Battle Armour troopers stepped from its cargo bay each of them wore the insignias of Clan Smoke Jaguar, of the District of Lesnovo and the Free Worlds League.
This was a goodwill tour of the District for the Smoke Jaguars organised by Lesnovo to improve the reborn Clan’s image and show that the District intended to support each of its worlds fully and that the Jaguars were part of this support. Piloting one of the BattleMechs a League produced Carronade type was Khan of the Smoke Jaguars Petra Furey the Mech was one of the most advanced that Lesnovo had and had been a gift to the Smoke Jaguars from Bowang as a symbol of unity and she had decided to embrace the gift. As was the plan the Jaguars paraded through the world’s major settlements and Petra Furey spoke at several gatherings before leaving the world.
Over the coming months Petra Furey would travel to a dozen separate systems improving the support for the Jaguars and for the District of Bowang. Petra Furey’s charisma does more than improve the Jaguars image it also draws many new recruits to the Clan’s ranks with many willing to give up the little they have on the periphery’s edge of the Free Worlds League for a dream of glory with the Clan. Many traditionalists within the Jaguars do not like Furey’s plans for their reborn Clan.
Strategy meeting Taurian Concordat/SLDF command
New Vandenburg, New Vandenberg
Taurian Concordat
13th October 3112
Colonel Jason Nowak the Star League Defence Force liaison to the Taurian Concordat was beyond angry as he stared at the Taurian officials on New Vandenburg he had been sent here to Coordinate operations between his unit the Fourth Royal Brigade and the Taurians only for the people they were defending to use nuclear weapons and kill members of the SLDF.
And because the SLDF had “no right” to set foot on Taurus command of the defence of the Taurian Concordat had been moved to New Vandenburg which was an inconvenience but not the end of the world. Nowak was not angry because of that he was angry because of the Taurians inability to manage a coordinated defence against Clan Nova Cat and their endangerment of SLDF troops, Nowak's friends and colleagues.
“Can we please agree that nuclear weapons are not the key to winning this conflict?” He asked looking at the Taurian Marshals. “These weapons are not stopping the Nova Cats…”
“But they level the playing field” Marshal Sylvester Blake said his anger equalling the SLDF officers.
“It is not a play field, people are dying!” Nowak snapped
“The Nova Cats bring WarShips to the field they level entire regiments from orbit we have no such weapons we need weapons that we can match the Clans with.”
“There is an entire Star League Defence Force WarShip squadron in the Taurian Concordat.”
“This is not enough, the Taurian people have to be able to fight back themselves.” Marshal Irina Volk said supporting her fellow marshal “we have destroyed another WarShip in the defence of Mirfak we are holding them back.”
“The Nova Cats keep coming” Nowak said “Star League Intelligence suggests that the Nova Cats almost forty WarShips with a minimum of two shipyards producing more WarShips.”
“We can produce nuclear weapons faster than they can build ships and train crews. Weapons are easy Colonel Nowak manning multi-thousand-ton WarShips and keeping morale up is far harder.”
“And in the meantime, innocent people and those who are trying to help you pay the price.” Nowak said angrily “hundreds of men and women who serve the SLDF have been treated for radiation poisoning due to the events on Belle Isle. And the Nova Cats keep coming” he said repeating his last words “we need to bring them to the negotiation table, provide them with a united front.” He said as another Taurian officer entered the room from behind the Marshals and handed a data pad to Marshal Volk who read the information and turned back to the group.
“The Nova Cats returned to Mirfak with additional naval vessels and ground forces. Our defences were no match, we have lost control of the system.”
“And the Germanium Mine?” Marshal Blake enquired
“Our failsafe was disabled by damage the Nova Cats have successfully secured the facilities.”
“Colonel, your WarShip squadron is required to assist us in retaking Mirfak.”
“Not until you agree to stop using nuclear weapons in fire support in ground force operations.”
“You withhold your support?” Blake demanded
“Only to safeguard my people’s lives.”
“Then you are no use to us.” Blake responded “lives do not matter the survival of the Taurian Concordat does and we will defend it anyway we can.”
“The Protector would not agree…”
“The Protector is on Taurus…” Volk said calmly “we are here.”
“May I speak to the Protector?”
“The Protector is young and does not need your interruptions in his life” Volk said showing that the Marshals intended to run the conflict as they desired.
Clan Trials of Possession
Clan Occupation Zone
21st October 3112
In a series of Trials of Possession Clan Coyote wins the worlds of Gunzburg, Skandia and Dalkeith from the Rasalhague Dominion. The trials are fought in accordance with Clan duelling rules. In the coming weeks the Coyotes expand their operations to the Hell’s Horses Occupation Zone capturing the systems of Orkney, Crimond, Zoetermeer and Vantaa showing that the Coyotes have lost none of their martial prowess while they have rebuilt their Touman.
Elsewhere the Sea Foxes abandon Steelton and Toland to the periphery instead moving their defences deeper into their Occupation Zone where they could be more use. With the freed-up troops, the Sea Foxes launch Trials of Possession for Parakoila, Babaeski, Great X and Yeguas in the Jade Falcon and Hell’s Horses Occupation Zones gaining control over all four systems as both the Jade Falcons and Hell’s Horses seek to use troops on their Inner Sphere borders.
FSS Eagle Eye (Hound-class Corvette)
High Orbit, Abbeville
Draconis March, Federated Suns
29th October 3112
The FSS Eagle Eye moved into a stationary position above the world of Abbeville and two Arondight-class DropShips launched from its DropShip Collars moving to take positions alongside it forming a blockade near the world. On the command deck of the Eagle Eye the crew looked at the brown world below it wasn’t the nicest world of the Draconis March but the people had made a life for themselves there and now they’d likely die there. “You think there is any chance of them finding a cure?”
“The NBC experts and medical teams think that one fifth of the population have been affected so far.” Another crewmen replied “word is SLDF NBC experts are being called in to assist as well they’ll do all they can for them.”
“In the meantime, we do our duty” Captain Bruno Vander Zee replied from the command chair “if any ship tries to break the quarantine, we force them back down.” He said looking around the command deck “we need to make sure that this does not go further than Abbeville the medical teams can work on saving the people below us.” He said the Eagle Eye’s job was to protect the Federated Suns even if it meant protecting it from its own people.
The quarantine of Abbeville would last until mid-3113 when the world would officially be declared dead by the AFFS as the virus that had been released on the world mutated several times and eluded AFFS/SLDF efforts to contain it.
Private Party, Oh! MaHeed
Jierus City, Bowang
District of Bowang, Free Worlds League
30th October 3112
In the premier club of Jierus City Oh! MaHeed the top floor was closed off for a private function with only the wealthiest and most beautiful allowed in on tables the most beautiful dancers performed for the crowd’s entertainment. In the centre of the crowd the Bounty Hunter, the five MechWariors of his team, the DropShip and support team all enjoyed the night. Among them Dominic Nostra sat watching as the party went by around him Christopher Grant slipped into the leather chair beside him, he wore blue stripped shirt and comfortable trousers and shoes. “What do you think?”
“It’s strange being in the open despite the wanted sign over my head.” Nostra admitted
“We all have one” Grant said “because of our actions before joining this team and after we are wanted across the Inner Sphere” he said back loudly over the music “the people here don’t care, they are the people who will hire us in the future and the people who are afraid of us.”
“So, we just enjoy ourselves?”
“Until we are called upon to do more work”
“And we pretend that the outside world doesn’t exist?”
“Oh, it clearly exists” Grant replied “but tonight we can enjoy the spoils of this work” he said handing Nostra a drink and gesturing to the wider bar at a particularly beautiful dancer who was close. “Anything you want in this room tonight is yours. Tomorrow we’ll decide what we want to do.”
“I still haven’t decided that my future is here.” He replied as Christopher Grant was already moving away the world of Bowang had become a world of trade and of mercenaries and was big enough for anyone to disappear.
“You will, see you in the morning” Grant shouted as he disappeared into the crowd and a pair of beautiful women joined Nostra on the leather sofa.
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Excellent stuff and those darn stubborn Taurians!
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Given their history, the SLDF should be happy that the Taurians didn't nuke them out of the sky.
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I can picture the Marshall saying "We Taurians like digging their own graves, thankyouverymuch, Starleague dog!"
Good entry!
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nice update
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Thanks I wanted to show the Taurians backs are against wall they are playing with fire because from their perspective it's the only thing that have to even the fight but they don't see it's alienating them from their allies and engaging the Clanners
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Thanks I wanted to show the Taurians backs are against wall they are playing with fire because from their perspective it's the only thing that have to even the fight but they don't see it's alienating them from their allies and engaging the Clanners
And the SLDF just showed the whole sphere, that when they commit to something, that well, they aren't coming to really play.
SLDF troops died via the Orbital Bombardment rules that Pirate Nova Smoked Kitty decided are now accceptable rules of war, even before TC brought out the Nukes. Yet they don't want to help the TC in their defense, unless they give up the only weapon they have to equalizer the battlefield. They are as bad as the Clans about fighting with "honor". I'm sorry but Victor if he is seriously would take this war to the Pirate Nova Smoked Kitty home or help provide the TC with assets that can, and tell the rest of the clans to stuff it.
That also being said, not sure also if given the current sitrep in the TC either Protector is now in way over his head or the Marshalls have effectively seized control of the government in a nonviolent coup.
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And the SLDF just showed the whole sphere, that when they commit to something, that well, they aren't coming to really play.
SLDF troops died via the Orbital Bombardment rules that Pirate Nova Smoked Kitty decided are now accceptable rules of war, even before TC brought out the Nukes. Yet they don't want to help the TC in their defense, unless they give up the only weapon they have to equalizer the battlefield. They are as bad as the Clans about fighting with "honor". I'm sorry but Victor if he is seriously would take this war to the Pirate Nova Smoked Kitty home or help provide the TC with assets that can, and tell the rest of the clans to stuff it.
That also being said, not sure also if given the current sitrep in the TC either Protector is now in way over his head or the Marshalls have effectively seized control of the government in a nonviolent coup.
Not until you agree to stop using nuclear weapons in fire support in ground force operations.”
The SLDF don't want to be caught in another nuke storm like Belle Isle they're not saying don't use them - also this is coming from a Colonel who was assigned to coordinate defence from a unit that got caught by a nuke his friends were likely in it I wasn't entirely clear there (my fault ill fix) the SLDF proper response and the Protectors position will be clarified soon
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Not only that, but Victor can and should point out to the rest of the Pirate Scum
clanners that the Smoked Nova Kitties directly targeted SLDF troops 9th July 3111, Davetal II, Star League Protectorate. So they wanted to fight with the SLDF.
This isn't us going and looking for a fight they brought it to us, so if you back that declaration the Loremaster made, then you to all want this war.
"Loremaster of the Clan Council Brennley Roshak announces the United Clan Council’s full support for Clan Nova Cat and that any combined assault will face the combined might of all the Clans."
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Next bit - still haven't abandoned this - sorry it's been a while since I updated
Territorial Gains
District of Dieron
10th November 3112
As the Lyran Commonwealth announces its intent to forge peaceful relations with the District of Dieron and improve trade with the breakaway Draconis Combine district Clan Sea Fox makes its intent known to Dieron that they are taking possession of the Deneb Algedi and the Nashira systems from the District as part of the trade deal the two powers had agreed to.
Clan Sea Fox also quietly take control over the Inglesmond system which had mostly been abandoned since the First Succession War. The Sea Foxes rapidly discover that the world’s population have been reduced to a hunter gatherer lifestyle and are uninterested in the Clansmen who land on the planet. The Foxes quickly bring in terraforming equipment intent on reversing some of the damage that had been done to the world making it useful for their own needs.
They keep from the District of Dieron that they have taken Inglesmond believing that since the District hadn’t paid much attention to the “Dead World” that they wouldn’t care for the Sea Fox presence there. This territorial gain by the Foxes gives them a significant presence on the border of the Star League Protectorate and near Dieron.
Territorial Gains
Taurian Concordat, Periphery
19th November 3112
Clan Nova Cat invade the systems of Gant and Celano finding them virtually undefended and the industry on the world sabotaged so it could not operate. Expeditions from the Nova Cats find that the worlds of Acidalla, Talltsa, Cadiz and Micros III have also been abandoned by the Taurians with any major industry removed from the worlds. As the worlds have no strategic or resource value for the Nova Cats, they bypass the worlds leaving them to their own devices. Because of the proximity to Clan Nova Cats space neither the Fronc Reaches nor the Gaenir Collective are ready to welcome the new worlds for fear of antagonising the Clan.
Caerphilly (Monolith-class JumpShip)
Zenith Point, Terra system
Star League Protectorate
21st November 3112
On the JumpShip Caerphilly Commanding-General Victor Focht looked at the screen in front of him at the image of Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion. “You’re sure this will work?” Focht asked the Exarch with a smirk.
“So far they’ve worked out” the Exarch said “between here and Denbar in a blink of an eye in every test all successful.”
“New Vandenberg is a fair distance further away, sire” he said showing respect to the older man. “And in each test the JumpShip was destroyed.”
“Only the K-F Drive the main drive thrust survives and the carried ships were still operational.” Victor Steiner-Davion reminded him.
“I remember reading the report.” Focht replied “you think one ship will make a difference.”
“The cargo could” the Exarch said “the Taurians backs are against the wall this will hopefully bolster their numbers until we can bring more units into the fold.”
“I’ll do what I can.”
“Good luck, Victor”
“Thank you, sir” Focht said saluting which the Exarch returned before cutting the link.
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Soon after the communication link between Focht and the Exarch had been cut the Monolith reeled its jump sail in and launched itself across the Inner Sphere. In a flash of light, the JumpShip disappeared from the Terran system and after several minutes the ship arrived in the New Vandenberg system. “That was horrible” Focht commented feeling like the deck was spinning under him.
“We are in the New Vandenberg system” the ship’s navigator said to the Captain “jump-drive destroyed as expected.” She said the Captain turned towards.
“Commanding-General, you’ve destroyed my ship but you’re here.” He said “we’ll get the DropShips offloaded as soon as possible.”
“Clear out all of our equipment including the crew’s personal belongings onto the DropShips.” Victor ordered glancing around “if the Taurians want this wreck its their choice, we’ll get your crew another ship.” He said what followed was an orderly evacuation of the JumpShip onto its attached DropShips. Once evacuated the DropShips headed in system towards New Vandenberg and Victor Fochts negotiations with the Taurian Concordat leadership.
Clan Raid
Nueva Castile, Periphery
27th November 3112
As the fighting continues in the Clan Homeworlds between the Clans of Clan Blood Spirit and Clan Goliath Scorpion and the Society Clan Goliath Scorpion attempts to show its capabilities by attacking the remains of the Nueva Castile. Among the Goliath Scorpion forces is the first Sun Cobra OmniMech to come off their new production line on the world of Haven. Piloting the OmniMech is Star Colonel Susan Elam a ristar within the rebuilding Clan.
Landing on the world Asturais they engage local forces only to be interrupted mid-fight by an approaching Summoner OmniMech which was accompanied by a group of Elementals and two military vehicles all wearing the insignia of Clan Goliath Scorpion’s Crimson Seeker Star. “I am Star Colonel Susan Elam of Clan Goliath Scorpion, you will identify yourself” Susan Elam demanded turning towards the incoming military forces.
“I am Star Captain Fiona Hernandez commander of the Crimson Seeker Star of Clan Goliath Scorpion.” She said as the local forces retreated Elam noticed that they were accompanied by further conventional infantry and more vehicles. “We wish to return to our Clan.”
“You will have to prove you are who you say you are…”
“Our Codexes are complete” Hernandez claimed “as are those who have joined us over the course of our time here, we are ready for your challenges.”
Border fighting
Las Halles, District of Oriente
Free Worlds League
30th November 3112
With their extended time on Las Halles the First Kathil Uhlans had made links to the Eagle’s Talons and Sixth Oriente Militia who were also based on the world guarding against trouble they may cause. This leads all three units to unit and combine tactics against Capellan Confederation aggression when it comes to the system all three take damage in the fighting but it is the Capellans who retreat. Marshal Richard Steiner is able to keep his unit separate from the two Free Worlds League units through the respect that his unit have earned in combat.
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Dc has been resurrected. :rockon:
The Taurian scorched earth policy is going to wreck their economy.
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I'm glad you could continue the story, Dragon Cat. Its too much of epic to fade off!
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Darn good to see this still going :)
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great update, as usual. glad to see you are still working on this.
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:beer: glad your back
NowI am interested in what Victor is up too
The Taurian scorched earth policy is going to wreck their economy.
Well the question is would you rather those major industry, fall intact into the Pirate force Smoked Kitty or move them back farther into the TC. Kinda like the Lryan and DC tried when the Clans came. Notice without something of value, the pirates don't want the planets.
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No news about my Whispers means good news too me... or that prototype warship class either...
TT
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:beer: glad your back
NowI am interested in what Victor is up too
I thought how he got there was interesting too
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I thought how he got there was interesting too
Agreed, I was surprised to see a super-jump in actual use. Pricey but an effective way to get wherever you want to go right now.
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wow, so now they willingly destroy jumpships for the superjump, them Monoliths are not exactly cheap or plentiful so if this becomes a regular thing they will deffinitly need to comne up with a better solution or class of ship spacficially for this.
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wow, so now they willingly destroy jumpships for the superjump, them Monoliths are not exactly cheap or plentiful so if this becomes a regular thing they will deffinitly need to comne up with a better solution or class of ship spacficially for this.
Not a cheap way of travel but if you need to get somewhere extremely fast and are willing to pay the price it works.
Given the number of shipyards I have active in this AU I thought it was something that they'd be willing to pay the price on to get the troops where they needed them.
Clan Wolf Territory
Castor, Wolf Empire
1st December 3112
Marching through the rainstorm on Castor Star Commander Kate Conners piloted her brand new Grimnir OmniMech towards the Star League Defence Forces that were trying to capture the Wolf system. In orbit above the world the WarShip Eastern Wolf, a Lola IV-class Destroyer, intertwined with the SLDF’s SLS Defender, a Patriot-class Heavy Cruiser, the two vessels were slowly losing height falling into the atmosphere. The battle for supremacy in orbit had been a draw with both sides losing a valuable vessel but now Kate Conners and her star mates planned on helping her Clan keep control over the world.
Moving the sixty-five ton OmniMech over the soaked ground she couldn’t see a thing through her video monitors and instead she tracked her enemy through sensors only. She fired her OmniMech’s arm mounted gauss rifle at a target and then followed up with a pair of laser blasts cutting into an enemy Nyx BattleMech.
“Infantry all over me!” The panicked call from MechWarrior Kayleigh called out as her Adder stepped forwards the light OmniMech was covered in infantry soldiers.
“Stavag!” Kate Conners cursed twisting her OmniMech’s torso towards the Adder “all units watch corners and eliminate infantry as we progress forwards!” She snapped lining up on the lighter Adder before opening fire with her OmniMech’s paired torso mounted machine-guns. The weapons spat out twin streams of high explosive rounds into the infantry killing several of them knocking their bodies to the ground while only lightly damaging the Adder “twist your torso to your right… now!” Kate said Kayleigh kept calm enough under the machine gun fire and the infantry attack to listen to her words twisting towards the Grimnir as Kate kept up her machine gun fire cutting the SLDF troopers off the OmniMech. “You Mech is damaged MechWarrior Kayleigh, retreat from battle” Kate commanded as a particle cannon struck her Grimnir’s left side she twisted the OmniMech to face the new threat engaging with her gauss rifle again as another particle cannon shot flew over her head.
“I can still fight” Kayleigh said stepping forward into a flight of long-range missiles which peppered her OmniMech’s armour.
“Negative, this is not a circle of equals they will not stop when your Adder is stripped of its weapons and armour. Our battle is to hold this territory” Kate said firing her Mech’s lasers again as the rainstorm beat down on her OmniMech. “That means all our Mechs continue to fight until our enemy is vanquished, no you retreat and come back to fight another day.” She ordered as her Mech was his by a group of tightly packed long-range missiles she twisted the Grimnir and opened fire with her gauss rifle again as Kayleigh began to retreat. To her right one of her other star mates opened fire with machine guns, pulse lasers and missiles virtually levelling a building beside them. “Push forwards” Kate commanded.
Over the period of two weeks the Wolves and SLDF battled for control over Castor in all two full Clusters of Wolves died on the world while the Third Royal Strike Regimental Brigade was left a shell of its former self forcing it off the world. During the fighting the wreckage of the two WarShips lost their orbit crashing down over the small town of Overland Park which housed two hundred-and-fifty thousand people. The initial impact ripped through the central street of the town with secondary explosions ripping through the city for the next week as debris from the two ships rained down on the city essentially wiping it from the face of the planet and making any survivors homeless leaving the occupying Wolves with a humanitarian problem. Withdrawing to Pollux the remains of the Third was folded into the Third Sirius Regimental Brigade as the SLDF attempted to create a wall that the Wolves would have to battle thought to reach Terra.
SLDF/Taurian Raid
Belle Isle, Expansion Zone
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
13th December 3112
In an effort to disrupt Nova Cat supplies and show solidarity between the SLDF and Taurian Concordat Commanding-General Victor Focht leads a combined Taurian Concordat/SLDF assault force to Belle Isle, one of the systems now occupied by Clan Nova Cat. Piloting one of the Prefect BattleMechs that the SLDF had gifted the Taurian Concordat Focht leads his strike force to victory against the Nova Cats destroying several supply bases that the Clan had set up on the planet before evacuating returning to the Taurian Concordat.
National Wedding
San Martin, District of Dieron
27th December 3112
In accordance to Shinto traditions Warlord Akira Tormark and Empress Emi Kurita marry on the world of Dieron. This union which is brought on by love and by mutual support their marrage links the breakaway districts military and political power further binding the people of Dieron together and further setting Emi Kurita up as a successor to the Kurita family’s legacy.
Trials of Position
Fasa, Near Pentagon Worlds
Clan Space, Deep Periphery
31st December 3112
Returning to the Clan Homeworlds Clan Goliath Scorpion take the surviving members of the Crimson Seeker Star and their supporters and take them to Fasa for screening and their initial Trials of Position to find their new places within the Clan. Star Captain Fiona Hernandez sat in the cockpit of her Summoner which had been configured into its Alternate C configuration which gave her an Extended-range large laser, an ultra-class autocannon, a streak equipped short range missile launcher and a small laser. The OmniMech was more of a brawler than the previous configuration she was used to but one that would serve her well when it came to the Trial of Position. Opposite her stood five BattleMechs one light, two medium, one heavy and one assault her opponents in this Trial of Position “I am Fiona Hernandez, I stand for Clan Goliath Scorpion, I serve now and I want to in the future for all my remaining days. I will fight anyone who stands against me.”
“You have been called to this trial to prove your worth Fiona Hernandez, I Loremaster Charlotte Djessarri will witness this Trial for Clan Goliath Scorpion and for you warrior.”
“Understood” Fiona Hernandez responded firing her large laser at the Ice Storm cutting across the Mech’s chest before the Mech could even take a step. “No quarter asked no quarter taken” she said taking several steps forward she fired again as the Ice Storm began to accelerate this time the hit penetrated the armour knocking the BattleMech on its back she targeted again and rapidly fired taking out the BattleMech. “One down” she said triumphantly now accelerating her OmniMech forwards as her next target a Clint IIC which had already opened fire on her with its autocannon and medium lasers the lasers burning over the Summoner’s left side while the autocannon sandblasted across the chassis knocking armour off multiple locations. “Wrong choice” she said running right at the medium BattleMech opening fire with her laser again as she closed in one hit, she did as much damage as both medium lasers burning a hole in the Clint’s right shoulder. The forty-ton BattleMech returned fire again with both lasers, one of which missed, and the autocannon which this time used solid shell ammunition which took a chunk out of the Summoner’s left leg. “At least you can learn” she whispered “just not fast enough” she said stamping down on the Summoners pedals sending the OmniMech into the air on twin streams of fire as it accelerated upwards her Mech’s Streak-equipped short range missile launched achieved a lock and fired the missiles launched straight upwards for a couple of seconds clearing the Summoner’s launcher before cutting their thrust above the Summoner immediately the missiles flipped end over end before they charged down on the Clint peppering its shoulders and head sections. Fiona could imagine the pilot being thrown around the cockpit by the attack thrown off guard which allowed her to complete her jump and land behind the BattleMech turning she fired her large laser and the ultra autocannon straight into the back of the Clint IIC the laser missed its mark but she’d fired it for insurance the autocannon was the real source of the attack the shells ripped through the back of the Mech crushing its gyro and forcing the fusion engine into shut down. Fiona Hernandez screamed with delight as she watched the Clint IIC fall “That is two!” She shouted triumphantly.
From the right of her Mech the third Trial Mech a Grendel OmniMech opened fire on her with its heavy laser and short-range missiles robbing the Summoner of armour down its right arm and torso section. “I am not done!” Fiona cursed she had come into this battle as a Star Captain she wasn’t about to leave that there instead she twisted the Mech’s torso away from Grendel taking several steps turning away from the Grendel she then turned the torso back at the lighter Mech and fired the laser and autocannon again this time the laser struck but the autocannon missed. She then jumped her OmniMech up again as the streak short range missile launcher fired again peppering the Grendel with more fire as it attacked her again with its large laser this time stripping what remained of the armour from her left leg. “Nice shot” she said as the Summoner landed again twisting towards the Grendel she triggered the autocannon again the assault class weapon tore through the lighter Mech severing its right arm and the heavy large laser. Fiona immediately launched another attack on the Grendel using her large laser and missiles which peppered the Grendel and knocked it to the ground the Grendel pilot immediately began the shutdown sequence for the Mech ending its fight.
Again, there was no pause between fighting as the last OmniMech a Mad Dog opened fire on her covering the OmniMech with long range missiles which blew holes in several places across the Summoner damaging the OmniMech’s small laser which was hardly a loss. Fiona twisted the torso section of the Mech and targeted the Mad Dog emptying the ammunition bin for the ultra autocannon ripping one of the Mad Dog’s arms off. The pilot immediately returned fire with one of its pulse lasers and multiple medium pulse lasers burning more holes in the Summoner including one that went straight through the left leg of the Summoner destroying the knee joint. Fiona fought to control the Mech launching the heavy Mech into the air firing the Mech’s laser as he went. As the Summoner flew towards the Mad Dog another wave of missiles flew up towards the flying Mech with about half of them connecting with the seventy-ton OmniMech destroying yet more of its armour but Fiona held the Mech firm targeting the Mad Dog she brought the Summoner down nearly point-blank distance to the lighter Mech. Fiona fought the temptation to punch the Mad Dog instead she triggered the short-range missile launcher and fired the large laser at point blank range smashing more of the Mad Dog’s armour knocking the Mech back. Its pilot hit out again with pulse lasers that couldn’t miss at this distance destroying three of the Summoner’s jump jets but Fiona didn’t need them anymore and fired her missiles and laser again as soon as they had cycled and like the Mad Dog, they couldn’t miss their target. The large laser struck the head of the Mad Dog as did several short-range missiles which penetrated the armour and blew the head off the OmniMech killing its pilot. “Your sacrifice will not be forgotten” Fiona said looking at the destroyed Mad Dog as it fell to the ground pilot death was not the aim of a Trial of Position but they did happen. “I will honour you with my service.”
“Congratulations Star Colonel Fiona Hernandez” Loremaster Charlotte Djessarri said ending the trial by confirming her new rank “and I can confirm you as the commander of the reformed First Crimson Seeker Cluster.” In the coming days every member of the Crimson Seeker Star attained a rank within the Goliath Scorpion Clan as did many civilians of the Nueva Castile.
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Nice to see Star League Forces now fighting offensive in the TC
can't wait until the rest of clansPirates find out
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Active/Destroyed WarShips End of 3112
Active units 3112
Link to map
https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=1092.30#lastPost (https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=1092.30#lastPost)
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nice update. looking forward to the new year.... story wise
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(https://i.imgur.com/MoA22Hn.jpg)
The Grimnir OmniMech for anyone who's curious :D
Great updates as always!
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I knew I'd forgotten a link to something thanks marauder
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Updated unit list with Mercenaries added - this list is incomplete I'll add more as time goes on
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(https://i.imgur.com/MoA22Hn.jpg)
The Grimnir OmniMech for anyone who's curious :D
Great updates as always!
This thing reminds of this thing from WarRobots. Sorry to interrupt. XD
(https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=52013.0;attach=52669)
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oh lord that does look like it! I'd never even seen that until just now :)
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Similar or not it's a welcome addition
Small update I've got the next part laid out I'm going to write it this week I've been held up with life and writing a Battlestar Galactica story based on the 2003 series and its spin off game deadlock but trust me new additions for this aren't far away
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Ok so my planned update was a little delayed...
3113
Trade Relations
Acamar PDZ, Capellan March
Federated Suns
8th January 3113
Following a concentrated effort by SLDF neigotiators to gain control over their systems the leaders of Nanking, Acamar, Rachbau, Aboris and Genoa all inform Star League Protectorate executives that they are no longer welcome in their systems giving them a short period of time to evacuate their embassys and leave. The Star League Protectorate representative to the Federated Suns on New Avalon Ambassador Sir Daniel Carter makes an official complaint to the Federated Suns over the treatment given to their personnel.
Intent on stopping further worlds defecting to the Star League the AFFS launch several Raids-in-Force against half a dozen Capellan Confederation systems keeping them from massing forces on the Federated Suns borders. The Capellans continue their covert operations against their neighbours well aware that they cannot match the Federated Suns or Free Worlds League on firepower and personnel only.
Trials of Possession
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
13th January 3113
The Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces launch assaults on Sargasso and Blumenort attacking the Jade Falcon Occupation Zone with two Commonwealth Guard RCTs supported by mercenary forces. On Blumenort the Fifth Commonwealth Guard RCT supported by Van Halen’s Heavy Cavalry overwhelm and destroy the Fourth Falcon Lancers Cluster. While the Tenth Commonwealth Guards RCT supported by Millie’s Marauders and the First Pathfinder’s Battalion destroy the Twenty-second Provisional Garrison Cluster.
In the days that follow these assaults the Sea Fox Clan invade Kikuyu, Blue Hole, Chahar, Machiba and Zongshan capturing them all from the Jade Falcons in standard Trails of Possession. The Jade Falcons happily minimise losses on both sides accepting their losses without complaint with JumpShips arriving within days of the Sea Fox assaults and moving their troops further into the Inner Sphere.
Purges
Regulus, District of Regulus
Free Worlds League
20th January 3113
Following years of concentrated searching for those aware that he executed the Duke of McKenna, his wife’s father, during the invasion of McKenna in 3093 Prince Lester Cameron-Jones finally tracks down the last person who currently serves as a Corporal in the Regulan military. Lester quietly makes the Corporal disappear unfortunately what the Prince does not know is that his wife Saadia is aware of Lester’s actions and has remained silent for the last three years.
Departure Operations,
Las Halle’s, District of Oriente
Free Worlds League
31st January 3113
Standing in the command room of the Conquistador-class DropShip Halland Marshal Richard Steiner looked over the reports of his First Kathil Uhlans packing up operations and saw that things were going to plan. Finally, after months of negotiations the SLDF gotten the Free Worlds League to agree to let his people get off the Capellan Confederation border. Unfortunately, they wouldn’t be going home to the Federated Suns as the Capellan Confederation had refused to allow them to travel through their space and Regulus was being difficult about letting them travel to Star League space. Instead the Uhlans would first be taken to New Olympica, the Star League holding deep inside the Free Worlds League before finally being able to head back to the Federated Suns. His unit had taken on some of the locals who had appreciated their efforts in defending Las Halles though these people were not from the Federated Suns and held no loyalty to House Davion they respected the history of the Uhlans with the SLDF against the Smoke Jaguars and their efforts to protect their world.
Two security officers entered followed by Prefect Freema Smit of Las Halles “Prefect, welcome onboard.” He said looking up from the planning desk during his time on Las Halles she had visited them several times but as a foreign dignitary she was still to be escorted. After getting over her initial reaction to his surname the two of them had become friends she was aware that his wife was in the Federated Suns along with his daughter and so nothing further had happened.
“Thank you Marshal” she said smiling “I will miss you when you leave.”
“I appreciate that Prefect, our time here has been tough for my people but your population has made it far easier.”
“And your willingness to trade openly with us has been appreciated to all my people.”
“There were times when we thought we’d spend all our money here.” He joked the locals had offered them decent prices on most things but even with money drops into their accounts by the Federated Suns government things had not been easy. Richard Steiner had taken to handing over battlefield salvage taken from the Capellan Confederation raids to pay for supplies.
“We have tried to be fair to you always”
“That you have” he said
“How go your efforts to leave?”
“We are on schedule” he said formally due to battle losses they now had less equipment to leave than what they came with but still there was a lot of moving parts to get working together.
“Good” she said glancing over the table then back at Steiner, there wasn’t anything secret on the table but he was curious about what she wanted with this meeting. “Marshal, Baker and Zulu Companies of the Sixth Militia have requested permission to join you in heading towards Star League space. They are willing to join your unit as full-time members of the Uhlans and swear their loyalties to House Davion or if you are unwilling to take them to enrol in the Star League Defence Force.”
“Interesting” Steiner said for a moment “we had three members of the Eagle’s Talons approach last night and request the same thing. I was about to contact their CO and find out what was going on.”
“The reborn Free Worlds League is a democracy they were given a choice. Obviously, any Free Worlds League equipment they still have in their possession, we will retain.” She said to which Richard Steiner nodded with a smile agreeing to their terms.
“We accept them, once we are at New Olympica we will allow them to make their final choice.” He said
“Thank you Marshal, have a safe trip.” She said bowing to him slightly he returned the nod and she was escorted off his ship. A few hours later the Uhlans departed Las Halles under SLDF escort. Within days of the departure of the AFFS unit the Free Worlds League militia units also moved much of their forces off the planet massively decreasing the numbers of people on the planet.
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Nice update !
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Good too see my unit is still alive and kicking in the employ of the LCAF (although i'm guessing there's a missing letter in the name?).
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Good too see my unit is still alive and kicking in the employ of the LCAF (although i'm guessing there's a missing letter in the name?).
Or I cant spell :D
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Excellent update, always glad to see this riding out!
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After a wee break some new bits, it's not going away yet
Trials of Possession
Wolf Empire, Lyran Commonwealth border
11th February 3113
The Lyran Commonwealth take part in three Trials of Possession with Clan Wolf striking against Loric, Glauser and Uhuru. Striking against Loric and Glauser Lyran House units attack elements of the the Fourth Wolf Grenadiers Guards Cluster on Loric and elements of the Ninth Wolf Lancer Cluster on Glauser. In both cases the clansmen agree to the Trials fighting the Lyrans with honour.
The third trial takes place on Uhuru on behalf of the Isle of Skye and Lyran Commonwealth the Second McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry and the Black Widow Cluster assault Wolf forces there. Due to both unit’s position as mercenaries the First Wolf Regulars Cluster and Eleventh Mountain Wolf Guard Clusters refuse to fight a limited trial with the mercenaries forcing the two units to engage them fully. The Black Widow Cluster quickly overpowers the First Wolf Regulars Cluster while the Second McCarron’s fight a longer battle with the Eleventh Mountain Wolf as the former members of the Mountain Wolf Clan fight hammer and nail with the mercenaries causing heavy damage before the Black Widow Cluster swings in to finish off the Clan Wolf unit. Following the battle both units are able to recoup their losses by salvaging equipment from the fallen Wolves. Lt. Colonel Ariana Steiner begins work to on remodelling her unit into a Clan styled Cluster intent on advising the First McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry’s commander Lt. Colonel William Hague about reorganising the entire command along those lines which she believes will allow the unit to act quicker and be more effective in combat.
Taurian Command Bunker
New Vandeburg
New Vandeburg, Taurian Concordat
18th February 3113
Surrounded by several guards Protector Erik Martens-Calderon marched into the Command Bunker on New Vandeburg much to the surprise of the Marshals who had been controlling him on Taurus. It had taken some effort including an intervention from an SLDF Fury Team that had been activated on the orders of Commanding-General Victor Focht. Erik had been angry that the SLDF had a covert team on his capital world but to his knowledge they had only acted in his defence eliminating members of the guard who were against him.
“Good afternoon gentlemen, how goes our defences against Clan Nova Cat?” He asked remaining professional despite their actions against him.
“We… we are holding firm.” Marshal Aaron Dalton said stuttering over his response.
“Good, have we opened up a dialog with the Nova Cats?”
“They do not want to talk to us.” Marshal Lynn Brewster answered a moment later.
“Have we tried?” He asked the four Marshals looking to each of them none of them responded. He looked around “where is Commanding-General Focht?”
“Visiting troops on Spitz” Marshal David Thewlis said looking at the troop movement map.
“Understood” Erik said looking over the maps Thewlis was looking at between the Nova Cats, the Fronc Reaches and the Gaenir Collective almost half of his nation had been taken over. “So why have we not attempted to contact the Nova Cats?”
“They are Clan pirates.” Dalton said dismissively
“Not an answer” Erik said glancing between them “listen to me. I was released from the little prison you set up on Taurus by loyal Taurian daughters and sons and our allies, and yes”, he said looking at each of them “they are currently ensuring that everyone on this base is loyal to the Taurian Concordat and its Protector first.” He warned them Commanding-General Focht had put the special forces unit under his command but he intended on using Taurians to do his work as much as possible. “Now listen to me very, very carefully” he said meeting each of them with a steely gaze “you command my military, but they are my nations military none of you will ever take them away from me or from my nation now answer my question why have we not tried to make peace with the Nova Cats?”
“We do not believe they will answer our communications.” Dalton replied as a young warrior ran in out of breath. “What is it soldier?” The Marshal asked but the soldier looked at the Protector first before answering.
“Give your report soldier, these officers will serve the Concordat loyally.” Erik said knowing fine their loyalty was at the end of a gun, he’d have to replace each of them but for now he needed their expertise.
“Sir, report from Spitz, Commanding-General Focht has been injured fighting Clan Nova Cat. The Clan raiders were repelled but the General’s condition is unknown.”
“Understood” Erik said dismissing the man. He turned to the Marshals “another soldier not born of our earth has been injured in this war you refuse to give up on.” He said intending on shaming them “send a message to the Nova Cats it’s time to bring an end to this conflict.” He stated turning and leaving the room, behind him the marshals remained at the planning table while on the perimeter of the room several guards stood waiting.
In bound Ghost Bear DropShip Wanderer
Thorin, Star League Protectorate
25th February 3113
The last three weeks had been a whirlwind for Star Captain Morgan Ghost Bear, Christifori he’d have to get used to that again after years of forgetting it, at the beginning of January he’d won the rank of Star Captain in the the Touman of the Rasalhague Dominion and been recalled to Alshain. There he had expected to be given a new Trinary to command. Instead the Khan had announced that he had been named as Ambassador to the Star League Protectorate and he’d been “honoured” with the name “Christifori” for the duration of his duties which there would be no end to.
Morgan had questioned his Khan why he had been chosen for this duty and he’d been told that he was uniquely placed to represent the Ghost Bear Clan and the Rasalhague Dominion with the SLDF because he understood both sides of the coin. He’d embraced the Clan way of life while still remembering where he had come from and he had never given up on the chance of peace with the Inner Sphere for the Bears. Khan Michael Hawkins wanted him to remember that during his time back with the Star League Defence Force.
Now in orbit of his homeworld, Thorin, Morgan Christifori wondered where his path would take him. In the hold of the DropShip stood his Shirke OmniMech the future was uncertain he had no idea how the SLDF would accept him, nor how his remaining family would, but he would give it his all and the OmniMech would remain his whatever happened.
First Prince’s Questions, Throne Room
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
28th February 3113
This was perhaps the time as First Prince that Burton Davion hated. When he was on New Avalon, he had accepted that once a month he would meet as many nobles as he possibly could from across the realm and hear their issues. The vast majority of them barely had any relevance to him instead he referred them to the regional lords who should have dealt with them before they even came to him.
This particular visit however had the potential of starting a war and a war that he couldn’t afford. Earl Jonas Tyler, the noble lord of Sherwood, stood in front of him. He had made all the greetings that were expected of him but now what he proposed was dangerous. “Earl Tyler, understand that Clan Nova Cat captured Sherwood in an honour battle which the Federated Suns agreed to.”
“And the only reason the system was lost is because I was not in the system. I have the resources to recapture the world and free its citizens. I only need Federated Suns navy support to escort my people to the surface.”
“Naval forces that would turn a raid into a war.”
“My people deserve their freedom.”
“Your people can leave Sherwood whenever they wish.” Burton replied “and according to intelligence Sherwood has never seen so much productivity and improvements. The Clansmen have invested resources in that world that the Federated Suns couldn’t have considered due to its remote location.”
“My family can take on that position, Sire, I beg of you I have the unit and the capabilities I just wish to prove my loyalty and the loyalty of the people of Sherwood.” He said he showed a passion that Burton wished he saw in other members of the nation’s nobility.
“I will not authorise a full assault against Sherwood nor will I be giving you naval support for your raid.” Tyler’s obvious disappointment showed as Burton stood up off his throne “instead I will provide you with a chance to show your honour and your unit’s capabilities.” Burton said walking over towards the noble. “Each year Federated Suns and Nova Cat units engage in honour trials which keeps the peace on our border. I will allow your unit to augment AFFS units which will engage the Nova Cats for possession of Sherwood later this year.” Burton suggested he could ensure that Sherwood became one of the worlds that were trialled for this year.
“Thank you sire” Tyler said bowing towards the First Prince “my Terror's will be ready.”
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Glad to see this return, DragonCat. Began to forget all the elements of the story. I really need make time to put at least your first book into a all-in-one PDF. xp
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Glad to see this return, DragonCat. Began to forget all the elements of the story. I really need make time to put at least your first book into a all-in-one PDF. xp
It wont go away I've just been busy with a dozen other things not enough of them involving writing
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Great to see this as always! And an excellent update. The TCAF Commanders all just had a gun pointed at their faces to make peace, sure it might make them seem 'weak' but they can't beat the Cats unless they break out nukes, at which point the cats break out orbital bombardment.
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Great to see this as always! And an excellent update. The TCAF Commanders all just had a gun pointed at their faces to make peace, sure it might make them seem 'weak' but they can't beat the Cats unless they break out nukes, at which point the cats break out orbital bombardment.
The age old is it worth winning a war at the cost of losing your nation - I agree with the argument the Nova Cats will run out of warships before the Taurians run out of nukes but Erik wants the war done.
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Good to see you back DC.
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good to see you back!!!
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DC has returned, amazing. :beer:
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The age old is it worth winning a war at the cost of losing your nation - I agree with the argument the Nova Cats will run out of warships before the Taurians run out of nukes but Erik wants the war done.
Well I had it party right, it was a kinda of coup by military command of the TC, but also glad that DC agree that pirates would have run out of ships before TC nukes.
Welcome back to your home away from home.
:rockon: :rockon:
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Hmm... interesting, "my Terribles"... like... are they terrable at battle or just terrably smelly?
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Hmm... interesting, "my Terribles"... like... are they terrable at battle or just terrably smelly?
Should have been "Terror's" I messed up it's his unit from Touring the Stars Sherwood
Officer Candidate School Graduation
Sandhurst Military Academy, England
Terra, Star League Protectoorate
2nd March 3113
In the torrential rain at the Sandhurst Military Academy the two hundred-and-six men and women of this years Star League Defence Force graduation class stood ready for their first assignment. Among the graduates stood Nicola Kincaid-Cameron and her brother Jeremy the son and daughter of Governor Bannister Cameron and Colonel Andrea Kincaid. The two twenty-three-year-old twins had already been given their first assignments with Nicola assigned to the recently formed Seventh Royal Regimental Brigade on Outreach while Jeremy was due to join one of the airwings assigned to the SLS Enterprise’s which was currently assigned to Milligan’s World on the Snow Raven border.
This class graduated along with other classes across the Star League Protectorate and on the other protected worlds as news spreads that the SLDF had landed on and secured the worlds of Wing and Wyatt from Clan Wolf forces. This fantastic news is diminished slightly as Clan Wolf’s forces land on Denebola and drive the First Knights of the Inner Sphere from the world bringing them another system closer to Terra. With the Wolves moving closer to Terra the Lyran Commonwealth are able to liberate Colfax and Cascade as the Clan pull's its hardened units forward leaving other worlds under defended.
Government building, Zletovo
Lesnovo, District of Lesnovo
Free Worlds League
15th March 3113
Standing in front of the of the other eight ruling council members of the District of Lesnovo Duke Raymond Brewer-Cameron-Jones spoke. “Ladies and gentlemen, I disagree about the decision that has been made today by our people and this council. I have led this District honestly and will continue to serve loyally under the new administration.” He said glancing to the left-hand side “I worry about the decision that has been made today, we are empowering a people that once threatened destruction of everything that we care about.” He said appealing to their better demons unfortunately it wasn’t enough “without further from me I give you…” he said glancing again to his left “I give you Khan Petra Furey of the Twin Sons system, leader of the Smoke Jaguars and new leader of this District.”
From off to his side Khan Petra Furey dressed in the ceremonial furs of Clan Smoke Jaguar which had been modified with the colours of the nations from the Twin Sons system. “Thank you” she said stepping up to the end of the table. “Ladies and Gentlemen, despite the fears of some members of this council the greater public of the people of Lesnovo saw wisdom in turning to the strong in this time of unease. I will rule justly but I do not foresee any great changes to people’s day to day lives, what is important is that everyone remembers we continue to live in the Free Worlds League, the rules that my people live by will not be adopted for all.” She said intending on putting the people in the room at ease this was not a take over she wished to show that they would work within the system. “To show that we are willing to work with the people of this district. Units of Smoke Jaguars will travel throughout the District sharing their insights and training, helping in shoring up defences and supporting local construction initiatives while we will be looking at using the Streaking Mist as a transport for constructing jump stations across the district.” She knew that particular concession was not popular among the crew of the Streaking Mist but they needed the good will and communication links it would create to repair the recently acquired Sceptre in a timely faction.
“We will also with the permission of those worlds we visit be opening recruitment drives to improve the armed forces of all worlds in the district.” She said explaining the first change she’d be making, the truth behind these initiatives would come out in time but that was all her people needed. On Twin Sons the Jaguars had already began replacing their ultra-light BattleMechs with fully armed and functional BattleMechs, many armed with Clan grade weapons after gaining access to the resources of the District and from links they had made with the Sea Fox Clan. The power gained from leading the District would just add to her Clan’s rebuilding, while the public image of assisting the worlds in their own projects and defence would improve external feelings about the Smoke Jaguars.
Weapons Testing
Proving Ground 47A, Australian Outback
Terra, Star League Protectorate
19th March 3113
The tent city in the Australian Outback had been Dr Lucy Davis home for the last six months as she and her team tried to get the Star League Defence Forces newest weapons, the TSEMP, to work. Three years of work on Kittery had led to this research after it was proven that field tests far from Terra were not enough. The weapon system was based on the original SLDF’s Centurion Weapon System and was intended on shutting down enemy Mechs before they could retaliate. The original Centurion system only worked on certain BattleMechs that carried a specific transponder the SLDF’s new plan was for a weapon system capable of shutting down any BattleMech.
There were eight BattleMechs assigned to the Proving Ground but so far after more than two years of testing Davis and her team were no closer to succeeding. Each time the weapons was fired at a Mech with the transponder it worked perfectly but against normal Mechs without the transponder it had little to no effect.
The tent flaps opened and through the door entered General David Hassid entered he was in his 40s and had been a career SLDF military officer. He was ten years Lucy Davis junior and while she found him attractive his military approach to everything, even research, annoyed her if it didn’t benefit, he wanted to get rid of it.
“How are you progressing Dr Davis?”
“We can make BattleMechs with the transmitters shut down ninety-six percent of the time.” She said they hadn’t been able to perfect the Centurion system but it worked on most targets. “As a training weapon it could be invaluable for controlling our assets.” She explained thinking about the benefits.
“Until we end up in the same situation as the first Star League.” Hassid dismissed the idea having read history “and the TSEMP?”
“It shows promise but is years from full production. We need to reduce its size, its drawbacks and it’s power consumption.” She admitted deciding to give him all of the facts hoping it would lead to further money and resources.
“After three years that is all the progress you have made?” He said barely containing his anger and frustration. The SLDF wanted a weapon that they could essentially disable an enemy force with instead of having to destroy them. Something they could use to take prisoners and capture enemy technology.
“It is a complex weapons system.” She protested unhappy
“That needs more laboratory work.” Hassid said “Doctor, your people have done well but it is time for a break. We’re closing you down. Your team are to report to the Beijing Research facility and begin work again in the lab. There you’ll brief a new team who will assist you in bringing the research forwards.” She knew what that meant she’d be teaching her replacements if she wasn’t careful.
“We are so close” she said wistfully.
“You have come far” Hassid said “now with the right resources and minds you can make this technology work for the Star League Defence Force. You’ll return here with a sounder weapon design and prove this technology will be useful to us.” He promised her giving her the hope she needed to take the research to the next level.
Camp Holt, Holt's Hilltopper’s HQ
Portland, Fronc Reaches
Periphery
31st March 3113
Standing arranged in the courtyard of Camp Holt stood the Combined-arms Mercenary Regiment known Holt’s Hilltoppers. Originally formed by former Free Worlds League warriors the unit now comprised from across the Inner Sphere and the Clans with a growing population of locals from the Fronc Reaches joining their ranks. The unit had long been classed as one of the Fronc Reaches primary mercenary commands and had been given priority treatment on several occasions after it had supported, and in many cases, won battles for the native “Marshal” forces.
Over the years the Hilltoppers had helped the Fronc Reaches create their own Battle Armour suit which was known as the TinStar which was being built here on Portland and at a small factory on the world of Independence. With TinStar production the Fronc Reaches could be completely independent of all other nations for Battle Armour suits its addition had made a massive impact already and the Hilltopper’s had benefited greatly.
“Standing before you I am the proudest man. From our humble beginnings to our greatest battles against the Ghost Bears, the Draconis Combine and Federated Suns this unit has stuck fast and preformed admirably. We have helped the Fronc Reaches find its feet and now we are beginning to see it and its worlds proper.” He said turning to the three people beside him Chief George Holt, leader of the Hilltoppers was dressed in the traditional garb of his homeworlds tribal factions which was similar to that of Native Americans from ancient Terra. He bowed deeply to them in turn President Carver Trondel, leader of the Fronc Reaches, Governor Katie Francis, the leader of this world, and Governor Andrew Stanton MacFarlane, the leader of the world Independence. “You have accepted us into your nation as guns for hire” he said drawing a traditional throwing ax known as a tomahawk it was made of wood and sharpened metal “we the Hilltoppers accept you as our home.” He said throwing the tomahawk into the air allowing it to fall to the ground embedding itself in the ground “mercenaries no more.” He announced from behind him the entire unit repeated his last two worlds “no more” again emphasising his point. The unit’s place was now here with the Fronc Reaches forever.
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Then...bunch hilltoppers spilt from Fronc and become their own merc unit the Downhill Riders. ;D
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Another longer than I'd have liked delay on the writing but here goes the next bit
Burn-in, SLDS Harman Dae-Jung
Long Baseline Facility 3, Lebouef
Military District of Dieron, Draconis Combine
11th April 3113
The Castrum-class DropShip SLDS Harman Dae-Jung moved rapidly towards the frozen Kuiper Belt object known as Lebouef, or as Long Baseline Facility 3, which according to Star League-era records was a deep space observatory and intelligence gathering facility and according to records had been abandoned years before.
Deep inside the vessel Major Davina Patch rested in her Nighthawk Mk. XXX Power Armour waiting for the green light. This facility should have been unmanned after all this time but they’d soon find out. The DropShip moved over the frozen rock approaching the “abandoned” facility “Bridge to Major Patch.”
“Go ahead, Captain Villecourt” She responded
“Major, we’re detecting power signatures from the facility below. Someone left the fusion reactors running or there’s people down there.” He said briefing her.
“Received Major, we’re ready” she said
“Very good, standby for drop” he said the ship moved over the base below with the cargo bay doors opening to allow them to drop. Immediately the battle suited marines dropped from the belly of the Castrum-class DropShip which hovered above LBF-3 the facility had no weapons but the DropShip’s guns were trained on the facility anyway.
From the belly of the DropShip Major Patch and forty-seven other troopers fell towards the facility below. As planned the battle armoured troopers dropped all across the facility burning through air locks entering the facility. “Patch to all teams, secure air locks behind you we don’t want to vent the atmosphere unless we have to.” She said as she entered the facility already marines had begun to use portable HarJel packs purchased from Clan Sea Fox to seal the breach behind them while another marine worked on the hatch in front of them this time hacking the internal airlock to allow them to enter.
Within minutes the doors opened and the Nighthawks were able to enter their weapons at the ready. Once inside the marines fanned out and Patch followed her Mauser Pulse Rifle raised inside there were several battle armoured marines pointing their weapons at members of crew dressed in ComStar uniforms each of them with their hands up. “I am Major Davina Patch, Star League Defence Force, identify yourselves.” Her Nighthawk’s speakers amplifying her voice so all could hear.
“I am Station Manager Margaret Thompson, welcome to ComStar Facility Lebouef, we were not expecting you.”
“I assumed not” Patch responded “ComStar is long gone the organisation disbanded. The ComGuard and ROM remenants have been folded into the Star League Defence Force.” She said keeping her weapons on the ComStar personnel elsewhere the same was being played out. “I need you to ensure that all of your people show no resistance.” Patch ordered Thompson reached for her belt and was watched by the Star League Marines as she drew a small radio.
“This is Thompson, all staff the personnel boarding the station and from the DropShip above are from the Star League Defence Force do not resist.” She said nodding to Patch.
“Thank you, how much personnel do you have on board.”
“We have twenty former ComStar personnel and six children under ten years.” Thompson replied “we have been out of contact with ComStar for some time.” She said as an explanation for the increased personnel, children wouldn’t normally be assigned to such a base. “We have room for hundreds in this facility and plenty hydroponic gardens.”
“Understood, as of this moment this facility is under SLDF control, we will not harm anyone unless they intend on hurting us. In time if any of your personnel wish to communicate with those outside this base or to leave the SLDF will accommodate you”
“Thank you Major, I appreciate that, we will not resist your occupation.”
“Major Patch to Harman Dae-Jung, objective is secured.” She said within a couple of hours the DropShip was able to dock at the facility and for SLDF teams to search the facility they did indeed find the facility was capable of supporting hundreds of personnel but that ComStar had not used the extended facilities for people instead they had converted much of the quarters over to hydroponics and storage which was what had allowed the small crew to live so long without support.
WarShip Foxhound (Drake-class Corvette)
Morghui, Deep Periphery
14th April 3113
After nearly a year of searching the Nova Cat WarShip Foxhound, a Drake-class Corvette, find the moon Morghui home of the pirates who attacked their people on Bandon. In orbit the Foxhound captures the pirate’s JumpShip and DropShip while the Sixty-eighth Nova Cat Roar Cluster dropped down to the planet and systematically hunted down the nearly battalion strength pirate force. On the surface they found hundreds of civilians who had been held essentially as slaves to the raiders. With Morghui able to only support a minimal population the Nova Cat’s choose to instead evacuate the population and bring them back to the Nova Cat’s Den.
Trial of Refusal, Taurian Concordat Camp
Gant, Expansion Zone
Nova Cat’s Den
17th April 3113
For the last week a truce had existed between Taurian, Star League and Nova Cat forces on the formerly Taurian Concordat world of Gant which was now occupied by Clan Nova Cat. Entering the command tent of the Taurian Concordat Protector Erik Martens-Calderon and his nineteen-year-old daughter Nicoletta Calderon moved towards the command table in the middle of the room. Standing at the table already were several SLDF and Taurian officers including Commanding-General Victor Focht who had his left arm in a sling and bandages covering much of his neck and torso following battle with the Nova Cats.
“Negotiations are at an end.” Erik said looking around the table “the Nova Cats have agreed to a Trial of Refusal to end the conflict that has raged between us. They have agreed to limit the scope of this Trial to be between a Battalion of our forces and a Nova Cat Cluster.” He said looking around the table “as you are injured Commanding-General Focht, I will command the Trial. I would welcome your forces support, but should you wish, you may withdraw Star League participation in the trial.”
“I trust your command Protector, Colonel Michelle Tegan my aide will command any SLDF element involved in the trial under your command.” Focht said beside him a female officer in her 40s nodded her agreement to the Protector.
“Very good thank you, Colonel, I appreciate the support.” He said “together we’ll stand up to the Nova Cats and end this war once and for all.”
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Two days later Protector Erik Martens-Calderon lined up on the battle line suited up in his Bruce Battle Armour suit with members of his Taurian Concordat Military and members of the SLDF. The Taurian forces were painted in the colours of the Taurian Guard primarily brown with red secondary colours and tan highlights while the SLDF units were painted in the green and two-tone blues of the Star League. Against them were the forces of Clan Nova Cat’s Delta Galaxy led by Khan Canin Rosse himself. The Delta Galaxy Mechs, ProtoMechs, Battle Armour and vehicles were painted in a white blue and multiple shades of green pattern with white and blue making up the majority of the upper hull of Mechs and the greens covered the legs.
“I am Khan Canin Rosse of the Nova Cat Clan; I lead my Clan by example and will command them in this Trial of Refusal. I bring the Watch Cluster to this battle.” The leader of the Nova Cats said from his Dragon Cat OmniMech. The Khan’s Mech had strode across the battlefield for decades and was well known by all of the Nova Cat’s opponents. Sleek and agile the seventy-ton OmniMech was deadly to units of all sizes.
“I am Protector Erik Martens-Calderon leader of the Taurian Concordat. I will lead the Taurian Guards in this battle.”
“Protector, I am glad to hear you are brave enough to face us” Rosse taunted the Taurian leader. “It is a shame Victor Focht is not here I would have liked to battle him again.” He said reminding Erik of the injuries the Nova Cats had caused to the Commanding General. “Protector, regardless of the result today the Nova Cats will accept your truce. You have met us in honourable combat, this is not something we will forget. My people will honour your actions even if I fall.”
“I understand Khan Rosse, fight well”
“Seyla” Rosse responded, there was a few moments of silence and then all hell broke loose as weapons fire began to be exchanged by both sides with a massive melee quickly developing.
The Protector’s Bruce Assault Armour weighed two thousand kilograms in total and was one of the slowest units in the Taurian forces. Initially Erik tried to track the Nova Cat Khan but he quickly lost sight of the faster moving Clan OmniMech. Moving forwards, he and his squad concentrated on assisting other units damage Nova Cat units with their support particle cannons together the four suits of his squad and the other eight members of their platoon could cause a massive amount of damage to an unsuspecting opponent.
As they moved forwards, they came across a Nova Cat SM1 Tank Destroyer opening fire on the rapidly moving hovercraft causing heavy damage to its right side damaging the propulsion skirt keeping its main autocannon off line from them. The hovercraft’s machine guns engaged them but they were nowhere near enough to stop the closing twelve Battle Armour Suits. Using their jump jets the Bruce suits quickly surrounded and bombarded the tank with fire destroying the tank and its crew. As they fought hover the Taurians had missed a point of five rapidly moving Nova Cat Trojan ProtoMechs. The scout unit of many Nova Cat forces the Trojan weight three times as much as any of the Bruce units but were designed for speed and agility and were only lightly armed with each carrying a single Anti-personnel Gauss Rifle.
Together all five of the Trojans could be deadly if they concentrated fire on individual units but that was where the Bruce had another advantage its mimetic armour would help foul the Nova Cats targeting. While the ProtoMechs were causing damage to the Bruce suits together the twelve Taurian Battle Armour troopers systematically brought down all five of the enemy units.
Erik smiled in his sealed Battle Armour suit they had successfully destroyed two units already and not taken a single casualty perhaps they had more of a chance than he had initially thought. He looked at the battle feed from his command vehicles and saw that the Nova Cats were causing heavy casualties to their forces but so far, their lines were holding. “Next target that pair of Shodens, we stop them bombarding our forces.” He commanded seeing another pair of wheeled missile tanks. The twelve Bruce suits leapt into the air approaching the vehicles which suddenly turned their attention on Erik’s unit switching their Advanced Tactical Missile launchers over to high explosive missiles several of the Bruce suits were hit and knocked out of the sky in the first missile volley. “This is Bull, we need support with a pair of missile tanks, fire for effect at my location!” Eric called out leaning into the ground for cover along with the rest of his troopers’ moments later Taurian artillery began landing in the area instead of standing up to fight the two Nova Cat tanks continued to fire as they moved away keeping the Battle Armour from taking advantage of the artillery support. “Cease fire!” Erik called out over the radio seeing the armour retreat into the smoke that was sweeping over the battlefield as he stood back up and began checking on his surviving men there was movement on his HUD display turning to face them his position was bombarded by short range missiles and for a moment he thought the Shodens had returned but then he saw his worst nightmare as an entire star of Nova Cat Elemental Battle Armoured troopers appeared charging out of the smoke.
With the Bruce suits outnumbered two-to-one and several of the troopers already injured Erik knew things looked grim but he wasn’t ready to give up on the battle. He and the other Taurian troopers fired their particle cannons and their suit’s inbuilt anti-personnel weapons as quickly as they would cycle intent on taking as many Elementals with them as they could but there were too many. Erik felt his suit be slammed from the side as a Nova Cat warrior fired a missile into his suit from less than ten metres away the blast knocked his suit through the air into a nearby collapsed wall as he rose he saw the burned Elemental continue to charge at him he raised his particle cannon and blasted the trooper in the face killing him but immediately another appeared. Not thinking Erik opened fire with his anti-personnel weapons intent on distracting the Elemental as he got his suit back onto its feet and the particle cannon cooled. The Elemental didn’t care about the antipersonnel weapons fire instead stepped forwards and sliced into the Bruce suit with its power claw Erik felt armour rip open but didn’t feel pain instead he swung back at the Elemental with his suit’s right arm heavy battle claw. Slamming down on the Elemental’s own claw the force of the impact amputated the Clan suit’s arm ripping the claw away from the suit. The Clansman staggered backwards then turned to face Erik and raised its other arm how the warrior was still fighting was beyond Erik he would have been unconscious or worse having sustained the injury the warrior must have taken by his attack but his momentary surprise was replaced with horror as he saw the Elemental’s arm mounted flamer spark to life. Refusing to face the weapon Erik launched his suit into the air on its jump jets but he wasn’t quick enough the fire burned through the holes in his armour and reached Erik’s skin. As the Bruce flew into the air Erik Martens-Calderon screamed as the flames reached the scraps of clothing, he wore inside the suit both his shorts and vest were flame resistant but the heat was still enough to burn through them and reach his chest burning into his skin. The Protector lost his concentration for a moment accidently cutting the jump jets as he felt the pain of the attack and the suit fell from the sky slamming into the ground in front of another pair of Elementals together they turned their flamers on him. Erik was already burning inside the suit and now knew this was how he came to an end. He closed his eyes and thought of his daughter and the shattered realm she was inheriting as the flames consumed him taking his life.
Taurian Launch Site
Gant, Expansion Zone
Nova Cat’s Den
22nd April 3113
Under a flag of truce and newly agreed peace deal Khan Canin Rosse flanked by Elemental warriors approached newly crowned Protector Nicoletta Calderon, the newest leader of the Taurian Concordat. After her father had fallen in battle the Taurians had fought for more than three hours against the Nova Cats causing heavy damage to the Clan forces including crippling the Nova Cat Khan’s Mech, although it had not enough to make him eject, it had been enough to show the Nova Cats that the Taurian Concordat and SLDF would stand up to them and make them pay for every inch of territory they took.
Stopping in front of Nicoletta Khan Rosse bowed slightly to her “Respect to the fallen.” He said
“Respect to the fallen” she repeated copying his gesture of bowing.
“Our forces will also respect the result of the battle and the words I exchanged with your father before the battle. Peace will last between us.”
“Until the next time.” Nicoletta said causing the Khan to smile. “Khan Rosse, a question for you if I may?”
“Aff” the old Khan replied slightly surprised by the question.
“Do you know what happened to your daughter Sonja Rosse?”
“She was a partner to your father for some time but she passed away many years ago.” He said he knew she’d died in childbirth but had no idea what had happened to the child.
“It was birth of my father’s first legitimate child, his heir, my mother fought with every breath she had to ensure that I lived even if it cost her life” she said seeing the realisation cross Khan Canin Rosse’s face. “I carry her name with me, I am Nicoletta Sonja Rosse, Khan Rosse I am your paternal granddaughter, your daughter saved my father’s life and became the one thing he loved more than anything else including his realm. She changed his life forever, she brought greater joy to his life and brought life to me at the cost of her own understand while we share blood my loyalties are entirely to the Taurian people and my father’s legacy. I will defend the Taurian Concordat with the tenacity and dedication of both of my parents.” She said making him aware of exactly who she was.
“My daughter chose her own path.” Canin replied a moment later “as all Clan warriors do. I am glad that her legacy lives on.”
“As am I” she said reaching into her jacket there was no movement from Rosse or from either of the two Elemental warriors but she was sure they were ready for anything. Instead of drawing a weapon and bringing her life to the end that would surely follow she drew out a piece of uniform with an old crest on it showing a Clan Nova Cat emblem with a bull standing in front of it staring at the big cat’s face. “Khan Rosse, this was my mothers it was made for her at my father’s insistence and she wore it on her BattleMech. I understand that there is a nova cat tradition of collecting items from conflicts and from important events?”
“Vineers” Rosse confirmed
“Then I turn this Vineer over to you to bring an end to this conflict and to honour my mother’s life.” She said holding it out to Canin Rosse who took the piece of material.
“Until the next time” Rosse said soon after the Taurians abandoned the world heading back to their own space leaving the Nova Cats in control of the system and finally ending their conflict.
Captain-General Election
Parliament, Atreus
District of Marik, Free Worlds League
28th April 3113
After four years Abraham Ledford was ready to stand down as the Captain-General of the Free Worlds League he had promoted improvements to peoples lives across the nation while trying to ensure more cooperation with their neighbours and less conflict. Now another leader would take his place but first there was a change to the seating arrangements that none of them had been entirely ready for. As part of the District of Lesnovo’s delegation sat their new leader Khan Petra Furey the leader of the district and leader of their military arm which was now confirmed to be made up of descendants of Clan Smoke Jaguar. Already Lester Cameron-Jones had called for the expulsion of Lesnovo as long as they accepted the Jaguars in military and political positions but that had been rejected by the majority of parliament and so they would have their place.
Now the leader of the District of Oriente and strong candidate for the position of Captain-General Duke Jonas Halas was speaking. “At present Las Halles economy is in a state of planetary recession following the withdrawal of military forces belonging to the Free Worlds League, the Star League Protectorate and the Federated Suns. The District of Oriente are supporting Las Halles but further support is required.”
“Money will not solve the problems of that world.” Photon Brett-Marik said looking at the first-born son of the man the nation had once known as Thomas Marik and now knew to be an agent of ComStar placed under deep cover and a man that had served the Word of Blake.
“No, the world needs greater industry investment and immigration.”
“A border world is too great a prize for great investment your enemies will see it as a target.” Khan Petra Furey said speaking up for the first time. “Already the Capellan Confederation has stuck this world recently, you will only stop the continuing this practice by striking them back and striking them back hard.”
“We do not need to start a war to improve a world’s position” Abraham Ledford responded looking at the leader of the District of Lesnovo she spoke in direct opposition to what he had promoted while being leader of the Free Worlds League. “If the Capellans wish to attack the world make it a fortress create a training ground there for your people and build the industry around it to support it.” He suggested “even if they do decide not to attack you then at least you will have training facilities.”
---
Debates were passed back and forth between them for days until finally a vote was taken against what was expected Jonas Halas was defeated in the final vote with Duke Robert Brett-Marik of the District of Gibraltar becoming the new Captain-General of the Free Worlds League. As his first act and building on an idea of the outgoing Captain-General the new leader of the Free Worlds League agreed to spend state funds and funds from his own District of Gibraltar to support the creation of a national training centre on Las Halles and the support economy for the increased population the world would experience as the location for this new base.
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Good update DC.
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Damn good update, a horrific end for the TC's leader, cooked in his Battle armour, but excellent writing as always, I wonder what was on that research station too!
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DC you have done it again.
Good update.
Burning inside your BA not a fun way to go. :thumbsup:
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I'm still waiting for the Nova Cats get hurt and backslide a bit. It's the worst thing about fanfics as the chosen faction of the writer rarely suffers major set backs and is consistently victorious. And in 3113 a Battalion versus a Cluster is not even close to a fair Trial, especially against a Periphery power. On paper, the Nova Cats outnumbered the inferior primarily Taurian force and to me that is just not kosher.
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That was really good update, DragonCat.
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I'm still waiting for the Nova Cats get hurt and backslide a bit. It's the worst thing about fanfics as the chosen faction of the writer rarely suffers major set backs and is consistently victorious. And in 3113 a Battalion versus a Cluster is not even close to a fair Trial, especially against a Periphery power. On paper, the Nova Cats outnumbered the inferior primarily Taurian force and to me that is just not kosher.
The battle was more symbolic but combining the SLDF and Taurians I counted 60 units while the Nova Cats had 5 binaries so 50 I should have been clearer numbers wise still heaped on Clan side though
I'd agree the Cats have had it easy but there's a couple of conflicts coming that will change that I'll say that
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Disused Land-Air-Mech factory
Zanzibar, Tamarind
Wolf Empire
8th May 3113
Escorted by the York-class WarShip Crusader the Seventh Ebon Watch Cluster had travelled from Tukayyid to Tamarind under orders from Loremaster of the Clans Iwabuchi Nagasawa to engage in a Trial of Possession for a disused Land-Air-Mech factory outside the city of Zanzibar.
The factory had laid disused since the Wolves had taken control over Tamarind with the Wolves taking little to no interest in the factory and certainly had no interest in LAM technology which had been avoided by the Clans since their inception. Now that the Watch Cluster were interested the Wolves could not completely avoid the attack instead the Wolfkin Keshik oppose the Ebon Watch unit. In a short Trial of Possession, the Ebon Cluster defeat the Wolfkin Keshik taking possession of the facility and the site it was built on.
New Avalon News Network
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
18th May 3113
His face was a face known all over New Avalon Michael Thomas was a news anchor that people could trust to bring them good news and news that could be trusted. He was known for his well-cut business suits and a deep voice which could be trusted which was why tonight he felt strange tonight the news he brought to New Avalon was both concerning and possibly not good. Sitting at the desk he looked into the tri-vid camera “Good evening ladies and gentlemen and welcome to the New Avalon News Network. Tonight’s lead story is concerning the Royal family more particularly Prince Luther Davion.” He said beside him a graphic showed the Prince’s most recent picture which showed the eighteen-year-old dressed in a business suit beside his mother and father who both wore their AFFS Uniforms. “In recent months there has been speculation that it would be announced that Prince Luther would be joining the NAIS or Albion training academies here on New Avalon.” Thomas said looking at the camera as the graphic beside him changed to show the two emblems of New Avalon’s premier military academies. “However today it was announced that Prince Luther Davion would be joining the prestigious Sandhurst Military Academy on Terra in the Star League Protectorate.” He said pausing for effect “Sandhurst is a Military Academy with great history but what this reporter and what the people of the Federated Suns will as is why the Heir to the Throne of New Avalon refuses to study at home.” He asked Thomas face was almost pained looking at the Tri-vid camera “more on this story will follow over the next few days as the Prince prepares to leave New Avalon.” He said over the next few days the same story was reported hundreds of times across the nation as people continued to question what was going on with Prince Luther and the decision he had made.
Capitol Building
Ferris, Ferris Collective
Periphery
24th May 3113
On the periphery world of Ferris the leader of the world Dame Danielle Bradbery stood in front of the Tri-Vid camera and announced the formation of the Ferris Collective with Ferris allying itself with Cadez, Manaringaine, Wyseria, Sutrah and Elissa. She announces that already the young nation which has been formed in the shadow of the Clan Occupation Zone has made peace with the New Oberon Confederation and the people of The Rock and will endeavour to avoid conflict with the nearby Rasalhague Dominion and Draconis Combine.
Government Building
Lesnovo, District of Lesnovo
Free Worlds League
27th May 3113
“Marker 13, this is Sword One, target entered building” the young woman in a white shirt and denim shorts said as she sat drinking coffee across from the government building on Lesnovo.
“Understood, remain on overwatch” came the response and the woman made another coffee order.
Inside the building Khan Petra Furey made her way up through the building to her office her two Elemental guards remaining in guard positions as she entered her office, if there were a threat inside, she could handle them herself, inside she found her greatest threat paperwork. Agreeing to become leader of the District of Lesnovo benefitted her people and allowed her to funnel resources to the Smoke Jaguars but the only way she would continue to serve in this capacity was if she did the job correctly. Moving over to the desk she sat down only to finally see the figure in the corner as it moved disturbing the mimetic suit, they were wearing which made them almost completely invisible. Furey reached for her sidearm but the person raised their hands showing they were unarmed making her stop.
“If you wished a meeting then you should have made it normally” Furey snapped
“Not our way, Khan Furey”
“Not my way either, and you are?”
“A friend or an enemy it depends how you see us” the figure said as they shed their mimetic suit Furey could see they wore a fully enclosed body suit which covered their body from head to toe. “We share heritage, Khan Furey, we just cannot decide if you are a friend or a foe.”
“I share heritage with those on the Twin Sons on other” she replied when the figure put a Smoke Jaguar insignia onto the table. “Where did you get this?”
“From those that came before me”
“And what does this mean to me?”
“It means we are watching Khan Furey; we remember the past, we remember where we came from and we remember what we were. Do not become the Smoke Jaguars of the past.” He warned
“Who says we plan to be?”
“The warning still stands” the figure said “if you do then your reckoning will be me and my people. But if you exceed our expectations be prepared to reap the rewards of our friendship.” He said turning towards the door heading out, as he left the two Elementals began to react to the figure’s presence but in a whirlwind of movement the figure knocked both of the guards down despite weighing half as much as one of them the figure looked back at the Khan then turned and moved quicker than Furey had expected.
Behind Khan Petra Furey watched as the figure ran across the upper level and out the other side jumping off a balcony on the other side of building Khan Furey chased across the level past her fallen guards looking for the figure but they were gone. The Khan stood on the balcony looking for any sign of the person who had threatened her, she did not know who they were but she knew that her Clan had yet another potential threat or a potential source of assistance.
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Nice update! LAMS for the clans?
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Dragoncat rides again! I wonder who Fuery's visitor was? Fidelis perhaps? Great update as always!
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Hope my Whispers are still lurking around...
TT
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Forty-third Star League Games – Final Game
Star League Stadium, Solaris City
Solaris VII, Star League Protectorate
3rd June 3113
Already it had been a challenging week with various competitors competing and winning trophys in the Stadiums of Solaris but now it was time for the Final Game. In an effort to keep the Star League Games from stagnating the Forty-third Star League Games had introduced new “Enviromental” challenges in the Star League Stadium.
Around the stadium autocannon and missile turrets had been added to target anyone who entered the range of the cannons. Each competitor was allowed to target the turrets but they had to choose between targeting the cannons and targeting opponents.
As the battle progressed the remaining combatants had figured out how to avoid the turrets fire or had taken out the more troublesome turrets so they could fight without distraction, however, the organisers had one last surprise for the competitors. With less than a dozen cometitors left out of the twenty had had begun the final battle three Bishop Transport VTOLs flew low over the stadium so the crowd could see them. Each was outfitted with a Battle Armour carry pod which immediately began to fire smoke rounds down onto the battlefield following these were thirty Gorilla Battle Armoured suits from the game world of Niosel each armed with a pair of battle claws and a support machine gun. Dropping onto the battle field these troopers spread out firing at BattleMechs moving through towards exits they were not designed to remain on the battlefield for long the suits wouldn’t last against BattleMech class weapons for long and the troopers were not getting paid enough to stay in the firing line.
As they moved across the battlefield four jumped up onto one of the competitors swarming a Wasp IIC BattleMech within a minute they disabled the BattleMech forcing the pilot to eject before they jumped off and then headed towards one of the custom fitted Battle Armour exits which were placed around the stadium. All told the troopers had done minimal damage to the majority of the competitors and had only actually taken two of the BattleMechs done but their imclusion had added yet another hazard for the competitors to be wary of in the future.
After another thirty gruelling minutes Marcus November piloting a KGC-009-variant of the King Crab BattleMech was victorious claiming victory and the Star League Games Champions trophy along with a cash sum of 10 million C-Bills.
Throne Room, Palace of Dieron
San Martin, Dieron
District of Dieron
17th June 3113
Entering the Throne Room of the Palace of Dieron Coordinator Akira Kurita walked towards the Throne of Dieron with his sister Empress Emiko Kurita and her husband Warlord Akira Tormark. As he approached the two Emiko rose to stand beside Akira. Dressed in the uniform of a Warlord of the Draconis Combine Akira Kurita stopped short of the throne and bowed deeply to them both as tradition demanded both Emiko and Akira Tormark returned the bow. “Welcome to Dieron, Coordinator” Emiko greeted him in Japanese.
“Thank you, sister, you have done well.” He said glancing around the room “and you look good together” he said bowing slightly to Tormark who returned the bow once more but remained silent. “It is good to see that someone maintains our traditions and still believes in what the Draconis Combine should be.”
“I am of course ready to turn over District command… to you, Coordinator.” She said hesitating slightly he was the elder sibling he had a right to lead more than she did even if she had built what they had on Dieron with Akira Tormark while her brother languished in confinement on New Samarkand.
“No, sister, this is yours” he said looking around the room again “I had my chance to lead and it did not go well. If Dieron is attacked I will help you defend it, I will happily represent Dieron in any form that is required, but I will do so are your pleasure Empress. This is yours be proud of it.” He said to her he was proud of what he had seen and experienced since arriving in the District the people were principled and disciplined he had been treated with respect but he had been struck by how highly people rated Emiko and Akira Tormark they people genuinely looked up to their leadership.
“If you are sure, Coordinator?” Emiko asked allowing him the chance to rethink, consider and change his mind but already Akira Kurita was turning to walk out of the throne room his decision was made. As he exited the room Emi looked at Tormark who had remained silent the entire time. “Not how I expected that to go” she said finally after a moments silence.
“He is a defeated man, losing the throne and the loss of his wife have finally taken their toll on him. Perhaps in time he will be the man the Combine remembers but for now it is up to us.”
Pirate Jump Point, MS Loyalty (Thera-class Carrier)
Tamarind System, Wolf Empire
22nd June 3113
In the empty space beside Tamarind four flashes of light occurred and four massive WarShips appeared in the system each carrying the crests of the District of Marik and the Free Worlds League. Almost immediately aerospace fighters and DropShips began to launch from the WarShips however everything wasn’t going to go the Free Worlds League’s way as heavy naval particle cannons, naval lasers and naval missiles slammed into the WarShips from above as the Clan Wolf defenders of the system swung into action. Defending the system were the McKenna-class Battleship Werewolf and two Lola IV-class Destroyers the Grey Wolf and Red Wolf. The Lola IV-class vessels were smaller than the McKenna but they were built for the modern battlefield with layers of point defence weapons and small craft to protect them as the FWL aerospace fighters and DropShips rose from their carrier craft the Wolf fighters and DropShips dove to engage them.
As the craft fought the WarShips engaged with their own weapons the Grey Wolf and Red Wolf dived ahead of the McKenna behind screening the larger craft with their bulk and their defences. Naval lasers, particle cannons and autocannons tore out from the two craft ripping into the MS Phillip of Macedonia tearing the Eagle 2-class Frigate to pieces with parts flying in opposite directions. The remaining three FWL WarShips continued to fire tearing into the two Wolf destroyers fire flew from the port side of the Grey Wolf as its armour was pitted and penetrated. The even as the Free Worlds League aerospace fighters engaged each other and struck at either side’s capital ships and DropShips the WarShips continued to engage in combat. With their armour damaged the two Lola IV-class vessels began pivoting to avoid additional fire. As they did the Werewolf engaged with its own particle cannons tearing the second Eagle 2 in half with concentrated fire.
Now passing the MS Loyalty and the FWL’s fourth WarShip the MS Lyne, a Monolisk-class Destroyer, and its eight escorting DropShips. Travelling backwards the Grey Wolf and Red Wolf took severe damage to their engine section as the FWL units concentrated their fire on the reversing Destroyers. The Wolf vessels concentrated fire on the Monolisk-class Destroyer as the MS Loyalty turned behind it with two WarShips gone the FWL force intended on escaping from the system while the Werewolf continued to fire on the vessels damaging the Loyalty’s thick armour. The weapons fire from the two FWL WarShips breached the rear armour of the Grey Wolf and caused a series of explosions through the ship causing it to explode.
With losses on either side and continued fire being exchanged between the two sides WarShips continued to recover their aerospace fighters as the engagement came to a close with neither side being victorious. The Werewolf and Red Wolf continued long range fire at the two heavily damaged FWL vessels but the engagement was over the FWL’s attempt to recover the once important system was again unsuccessful.
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Trial of Poition, Ways of Seeing Park
New Barcella, Nova Cat’s Den
7th July 3113
Out of an original class of forty candidates the last four members of Clan Nova Cat’s Mystic Caste graduate as MechWarriors in the Clan. The four candidates who have been trained since they were born for the role of saOathmaster in the Mystic Caste become the first people in Clan Nova Cat to assend to the role. Most of the Clan do not completely understand how the saOathmasters will fit into the Clan only that the four, Eugene, Ejiofor, Harper and Lana, will answer only to the Oathmaster and the Khan in their duties.
Raid in Force
Mendham, Taurian Concordat
Periphery
18th July 3113
Following rumours that Taurian Concordat and Capellan Confederation troops were massing on the world of Mendham the Federated Suns deploy a Rabid Fox team to Mendham. Things hadn’t gone entirely to plan; the Rabid Fox hadn’t found any sign of the suspected build up on the planet but they had been discovered by the planetary militia on extraction and were now running for their lives. After blowing through their first extraction point the eight Rabid Fox members had carried on moving through the day. “Hellion Four, under fire from Taurian militia.” One of the troopers radioed out from beyond their position Taurian infantry and vehicles were closing on the area.
“Sword Team Attila to Hellion, we are on our way down to you.” A voice replied as out of the darkness BattleMechs dropped to the ground beside them and began to lay down cover fire towards the Taurian troops. From the rear of a Thanatos BattleMech four newly developed Fusilier 2 Battle Armour troopers dropped to the ground while further along more of the same equipped troopers fell from another BattleMech. The Fusilier 2 was a lighter version of the Fusilier equipped with magnetic clamps for rapid deployment, a Magshot Gauss Rifle and an over the left shoulder machine gun for support fire. The Fusiliers moved forward and took the places of the Rabid Fox laying down cover fire. Behind the BattleMech line two Cavalry Cadence Rain VTOLs swooped out of the darkness firing their forward Magshot Gauss Rifles. Out of each VTOL stepped a pair of Sniper Power Armoured troopers who provided cover fire for the Rabid Fox to extract to the VTOLs and evacuate.
“You guys get all the toys” one of them said entering the long angular VTOL.
“Depends on the day, we’re extracting some VIPs, make yourself comfortable” the loadmaster said allowing the others to get inside. Behind them the Sniper equipped troopers also got onboard helping before the rear doors closed up within moments the two Cavalry aircraft lifted off the ground and began to make a swift exit. Before the night was out the elements of Sword Team Attila had completely withdrawn from the planet’s surface. Days later the Taurians launched an official complaint with the Federated Suns Embassy on New Vandenberg but these fall on deaf ears.
Border Raids
District of Marik, Free Worlds League
25th July 3113
Following the raid on Tamarind a month before Clan Wolf retaliate against the Free Worlds League raiding the worlds of Miaplacidus, Angel II, Bedeque and Marik. On Angel II and Bedeque the Wolves make it to the ground and bloody elements of the Eighth Marik Guards before pulling back. At Marik the Wolves are unable to penetrate the aerospace defences of the planet withdrawing before heavy damage is done to either side. On Miaplacidus the Elite Fifth Wolf Lancers Cluster assault and destroy the Seventh Marik Guards taking control over the planet. With these attacks the Wolves are in striking distance of Marik and Irian showing that not only the Free Worlds League can strike at critical systems.
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;D YAY! Nice update. Clan Wolf just showed it's still got teeth and claws!
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Excellent pair of updates! Great writing as always :)
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Flight Deck, SLS Immortal Spirit (Patriot-class Heavy Cruiser)
Nadir Point, St Loris
Kittery Prefecture, Star League Protectorate
2nd August 3113
In the low gravity of the SLS Immortal Spirit’s flight deck newly arrived Lt Jeremy Kincaid-Cameron headed towards the pilot briefing room. This was his first WarShip assignment and he was ready to make the most of it. Near the front of the room stood an officer wearing Captain insignia who turned to look at him Jeremy snapped to attention. “Lieutenant Jeremy Kincaid-Cameron reporting for duty, sir.”
“Thank you, Lieutenant, I’m Captain William Burr welcome to the Spirit, you all settled in?” the older man asked turning to face him.
“Yes, sir, my personal items are stored away I’m ready for operations. I’m qualified on all classes of aerospace fighter…”
“Small craft?”
“Yes, sir, both aerodyne and spheroid models.”
“Very good, suit up, you’re flying the school bus today routine stop and search mission.”
“School bus?” Jeremy asked confused not recognising the designation he’d expected to be assigned to an aerospace fighter.
“Bay 16, we’ll be checking on a JumpShip that’s due in at 1600. Be ready for launch.”
“Yes, sir, I’ll be ready.”
---
At 1530 Jeremy Kincaid-Cameron arrived at Bay sixteen to see the ship the crew called the School Bus which was also known as Clan built Pelican Small Craft Jeremy smiled seeing the craft. “Some school bus” he whispered he thought to himself. Coming up alongside him stood a short red headed woman wearing Lieutenant bars on her flight suit.
“It’s only an inspection run, but she’s mine” the young woman said “only one on the ship and a specialist for this type of Operation. You ready to get your hands ready?”
“Yes, mam” he said eagerly
“Very good I’m Lt Hannah Palemoon, Callsign Duchess and no it’s not because I’m royal blood. I gave someone a ride once I’ll probably never live it down. You got a Callsign?”
“They called me “Starboy” in the Academy, but nothing from a flight assignment.”
“We’re not calling you that” Palemoon said “we’ll figure something out now get onboard and begin pre-flight the marines will be with us soon. They are lovely boys and girls even if they’re a bit rough.” She said as the marines in their full armour began to enter the Small Craft each wore a full set of Cavalier Battle Armour ready for anything as part of the mission.
At the front of the ship Jeremy sat in the co-pilots seat as the troopers behind got themselves ready the Pelican had plenty room for twice the number of troopers than today’s run but they quickly got themselves into their positions and were secure in the hold. “Checks complete ready for flight”
“Operations has cleared us and hold is secure” Palemoon said “ship’s yours, Lieutenant.” He said touching the controls but keeping his hands clear of the controls. Jeremy smiled in control and flicked a switch and the Pelican “fell” out of the bay into open space rotating slowly as it fell relative to the cockpit the SLS Immortal Spirit was “above” them. “We’re clear of mothership, engines primed and on standby.” She said as Jeremy continued the rotation rolling the ship one more time away from the Immortal Spirit before triggering the engine acceleration “someone’s got a bit of flare with my baby.”
“Just getting a feel for it.” He said feeling the acceleration of the small craft. “We’ve been met by our escorts.” He said as two Dagger OmniFighters joined the craft taking up a position just above them and ahead. “Target craft is twenty minutes ahead of us and attempting to accelerate away.”
“That’s a civilian DropShip, they can’t hope to out run us.”
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Within twenty minutes the they had caught up with the Buccaneer-class Cargo DropShip Jeremy knew the Pelican he was in had weapons but it would be the two Daggers who would do most of the work. “This is Captain Javier Martinez to Buccaneer-class DropShip Fraser Flyer; you’re called to maintain speed and heading and prepare to be boarded for inspection.”
“We’re just running supplies to Lukrum Industries on St Loris”
“You’re said delivery path is known; we are verifying what you are carrying as is the duty of the AFFS.” Palemoon said “failure to stop will result in immediate action.” She threatened
“Understood, we are slowing to allow your inspectors aboard.” Martinez responded moments later the Buccaneer began to turn in space aiming its thrusters against its direction of travel once it had turned the engines lit up and began to slow the DropShip’s speed.
“Cutting thrust to match theirs” Kincaid-Cameron responded “wow, she’s doing well” he commented as the ship deaccelerated faster than he was expecting the two Dagger’s flew past the DropShip turning around behind the ship. With both of their pursuers out of position suddenly weapons fire erupted from the DropShip with missiles targeted on the Daggers behind the ship while a trio of autocannons at the front of the ship opened fire on the Small Craft. “Taking evasive action!” Jeremy Kincaid-Cameron screamed throwing the ship to the port there were several heavy thumps along the rear of the ship. “We’ve got hostile tracking radar!” He called out “first shots were blind fired fighters have avoided most of it, our armour held.” He said continuing the ships turn as he did more autocannon, laser and missile fire flew out with autocannon fire ripping along the top of the Pelican while missiles peppered the two Daggers.
“Then let’s give them a response” Palemoon said responding “School Bus to Dagger Flight burn them!” She ordered weapons fire from the two fighters erupted ripping into the rear of the Buccaneer while missiles from the Pelican ripped into the nose of the ship. More missile and autocannon fire tore into the Pelican’s hull but the Buccaneer had taken more far more damage as the two Daggers continued their attack run moving passed the ship.
“Hull breach!” Kincaid-Cameron called out “Cargo hold’s taken some damage” he said throwing the ship to the port side turning away from them again “harjel pocket has deployed and sealed the hull. Marines checked in they’re all ok.”
“Very good Lieutenant, let’s finish the job, School Bus to Dagger Flight they’re not taking the hint. Turn up the heat.”
“Affirmative School Bus, coming around for another strike.” He responded as he did the two Daggers took a wide turn towards the Buccaneer as they did, they fired again striking the DropShip’s Cargo bay doors blowing them open to space. This caused the Buccaneer to turn violently away from them as the ship’s hold decompressed several of the crew and cargo were blown into open space. Additional missiles from the Pelican tore into the front of the ship followed by another round of weapons fire from the two Daggers. With the damage done from both the fighters and the Pelican the DropShip’s resistance to their attacks was beginning to wane with several airlocks decompressing from the damage caused.
“Fraser Flyer stand down before what’s left of your crew die” Jeremy Kincaid-Cameron communicated but it was too late the damage had been done to the ship and other sections were already decompressing with parts of the craft blowing away from its hull. “Stand down, we will offer assistance…” but as he spoke even, he could see the ship was done.
“Target destroyed” Palemoon said confirming it. “Lieutenant, bring us closer, we’ll deploy the marines to the wreck and search for survivors.”
“They didn’t have a chance” he said glancing over at the DropShip seeing on the sensors that the ship's hull had been breached on almost every deck.
“No they didn’t” she said reaching for the controls believing her young co-pilot was in shock but before she could take the controls Jeremy moved the ship forwards spinning it so their cargo bay was pointed towards the DropShip it slowly opened and marines began to leave heading into the wreck of the Buccaneer. “Ease up, Lieutenant, you did well.” Palemoon said taking over the controls Jeremy Kincaid-Cameron slumped back into his seat reflecting about his opinion on Small Craft compared to Aerospace Fighters, this one wasn’t half bad.
Selarico, Outside City Hall
Sutama, Awano Prefecture
District of Philidelphia, Draconis Combine
19th August 3113
On the world of Sultama, under the Dome of Selarico Coordinator Akira Kurita stood beside members of the First Dieron Imperial Guard Regiment after their successful action against the Draconis Combine defenders. Initially it had turned into a raid but as the population had learned that former Draconis Combine leader Akira Kurita was leading the attack from his Sunder OmniMech the population rallied around the First Dieron Imperial and quickly a raid turned into a battle for liberation.
Now still in his Sunder’s cockpit Akira stood outside the City Hall of Selarico Akira watched as the City’s leaders were led out of the building with guards from the First Dieron Imperial. “No executions” he said over the OmniMech’s loudspeakers “I want the leaders of this world and the people to understand one thing, I still class them as my people and I still believe we are all members of the Draconis Combine.” He said making sure everyone understood. “Today life does not change for the people of Sultama other than you get better defenders.”
Raid in Force
Mount Bruno Range, East of Kivapura
Irian, District of Marik
29th August 3113
Continuing their raids against the Free Worlds League to keep the people on edge and keep their warriors blooded and ready Clan Wolf had raided Irian intent on wresting the important production world from the Inner Sphere nation. The defenders had held the Wolves in check around all production facilities but had been unable to stop them capturing the city of Kivapura for three weekend they had failed to dig the Wolves out of the City.
While the Seventh District of Marik Regulars continued to try and break them out of their positions further units dropped from above firing as they fell. Aerospace fighters bombed the Wolves defence lines as the new units fell around them. Landing his Mad Cat II Enhanced Marshal Richard Steiner, the commander of the First Kathil Uhlans RCT, twisted the torso of his BattleMech and opened fire on the nearest Wolf BattleMech an Ice Ferret destroying the left arm. Elsewhere further BattleMechs and Battle Armour were landing all around.
Behind Free Worlds League lines, the remaining Uhlans armoured units were moving up to support the Free Worlds League’s lines. While there was only a fraction of the Uhlans remaining in fighting condition none of them had hesitated when he had commanded them to deploy on Irian to support SLDF and FWL defenders. Richard Steiner was proud of his people but angry that it had taken the SLDF and the Free Worlds League to get his unit off the Capellan/FWL boarder the Federated Suns had the equipment and assets to support and escort them out of the Free Worlds League but they hadn’t instead they’d left his unit to fend for itself. Now on Irian they were fighting again this time against a Clan though yet there were none of their brothers from the Federated Suns beside them.
Now under the guns of another three combined-arms regiments the Wolves in this area were on the retreat pulling back towards their DropShips that had landed within the city. “Do not pursue them into the city, we’re not going to kill civilians chasing raiders.”
“This Colonel Francis Watt to unknown force, please identify yourself.”
“We’re the Kathil Uhlans Colonel Watt” Richard replied “the SLDF asked us to support, we’re only here to help.”
“The Uhlans?” Watt responded “thank you for your assistance, and that of the SLDF.”
“We’re here to help.”
“Thanks' again Commander, if you’re here to help, you’re very welcome to be here.” The defender said as FWL units moved forwards to help secure the area and tend to the wounded. From the city the first Clan Wolf DropShip was taking off from the city as the Clan retreated.
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So the SLDF's finally started helping out the FWL, makes sense especially with so strategically important a world. Very good scene with the encouter with Pirates too :) Always good to see the DragonCat Universe riding forth :)
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For a possible call-sign, might I suggest Glamdring 8)
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Action pack story, Dragoncat! Nice first day on the job for Jeremy Kincaid-Cameron!
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Trail of Possession
Lucianca, Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
1st September 3113
Testing one of their newest hovercraft Clan Hell’s Horses challenges Clan Jade Falcon to a trial of possession fielding their new Cartazonon Heavy OmniVehicle weighing in at sixty tons the hovercraft used technologies pioneered by on the Epona. The Cartazonon came in five distinct models and the Hell’s Hoses planned their battle accordingly using the Prime and alternate A configurations to begin the battle the Hell’s Horses bombarded the Jade Falcons with volley after volley of Advanced Tactical and Long-Range Missiles. As the Falcons came closer the Horses made the Cartazonon’s speed and close in weaponary of the B, C and D configurations to out maneuver the heavier Jade Falcon units and their Battle Armour forces.
After several hours of fighting the Jade Falcon’s Second Falcon Lancers Cluster evacuate from the world taking with them a salvaged Cartazonon. which despite the disdain the Falcons held for vehicles had intrigued them after its showing on Lucianca. For the Hell’s Horses the battle had proven that their first new weapon worked in battle.
Christifori Household
Ecol City, Thorin
Thorin PDZ, Star League Protectorate
18th September 3113
It felt strange to be back on Thorin he’d been here for seven months and still Morgan Chirstifori wasn’t entirely adapted to it. The Ghost Bears had sent him back here to represent their Clan in the Inner Sphere but he didn’t know how he was supposed to do this the SLDF had given him access to the Mechbay that housed his Shirke OmniMech but otherwise had cast him aside on the world instead he’d been left to try and become part of the world again alone. His mother as leader of the Thorin PDZ travelled among the different worlds as part of her duties she’d asked him if he wished to go with her but he didn’t instead he wanted to find out how he could continue to serve the Rasalhague Dominion in his new position.
There was a knock at the front door on his way Morgan grabbed his personal sidearm, a gauss pistol, before opening it only to see a familiar face. “Marika” he almost whispered recognizing the intelligence officer he’d known before being captured by the Ghost Bears.
“You didn’t call” she said in response reminding him that they said they’d talk again.
“I was out of call range for a bit” he said smirking seeing that despite the years they had been separated she was still as beautiful as he remembered. “Please come in” he said stepping to the side revealing his sidearm still in his hand.
“Expecting someone else?”
“There have been some locals who are against my return to Thorin. They see my presence here as an affront to my parent’s legacy because of my current connections.” He explained there have been a couple of threats no action yet.
“The SLDF could arrange protection” she said entering the main room of the house “it’s beautiful here your mother keeps a beautiful home.”
“She is not home as often as she would like to be, she lives to serve the Star League much like my father did.” He said “please take a seat, would you like a drink?”
“No, thank you” she said sitting down “so any plans for what your going to do since your return?”
“I am waiting for the Diplomatic Corps to get back to me, I am officially a representative of the Rasalhague Dominion.” He explained “the most the SLDF have given me is a place to park my Mech.
“I saw that, an impressive machine.”
“I claimed it from the Jade Falcons in battle” he explained
“Impressive” she said again she smirked it was strange he once felt that the two fo them were destined to be together but now they spoke to each other like they were strangers.
“There is another option you reactivate your Star League commission.”
“Not sure if I can do that, I have to be true to who I have become as well as who I was.” He said Marika nodded her agreement with him understanding he’d gone through changes while with the bears.
“So until then you’ll mope about here?”
“I am sure I will keep myself busy.”
“You’d better not become a stranger?”
“Not a chance.”
Planetary Vote, Prefect’s Office
Beauborg, Las Hales
District of Oriente, Free Worlds League
24th September 3113
Since the departure of the First Kathil Uhlans, the SLDF units that were with them and the Free Worlds League reinforcements that had helped defend the world Las Halles had been struggling to recover from the lost revenue which the increased population had brought. As the leader of the world Prefect Freema Smit had tried to bring in further investment into the world but only a few were interested in investing in a border world that had recently suffered from raids of a nearby state. As a result of the ever-worsening financial state a general election had been called for the world now Freema waited for the result.
There was a knock on the door and Freema rose from her chair as her aide Eleazar Tiberias entered she was more than an aide she’d been her friend for years and the purple dress she’d chosen tonight was specifically to help promote Freema’s position as the preferred FWL candidate in tonight’s election. “Ella” the Prefect said but then she saw the young woman’s face “we did all we could, thank you, thank all of the team and tell them I will be out in a minute.” She said her words brought tears to her friend’s face but she nodded and she left. Freema took another look around her office and cursed the day that the Uhlans came to this world, she also silently thanked their arrival, it was time for a change in her life.
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Yay an update!
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sixty ton hover tank? I thought they topped at fifty tons. Must be using advanced/experimental rules, which seems to be the norm post-Jihad.
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Great update and i'd like to know more about this hovertank :D
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Great update and i'd like to know more about this hovertank :D
You've seen it before on this thread
https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=3354.msg42395#msg42395 (https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=3354.msg42395#msg42395)
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Isn't that classified as a Superheavy Hovercraft?
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Isn't that classified as a Superheavy Hovercraft?
Possibly I can't remember I still can't get SSW to work correctly with new laptop, no clue what's wrong with it downloaded Java a dozen times now.
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Possibly I can't remember I still can't get SSW to work correctly with new laptop, no clue what's wrong with it downloaded Java a dozen times now.
Classifications for Super-Heavy Combat Vehicles (https://www.sarna.net/wiki/Category:Super-Heavy_Combat_Vehicles)
- Hovercraft: 51-100
- Naval (Displacement & Submarine): 301-555
- Tracked: 101-200
- Wheeled: 81-160
- VTOL: 31-60
- Wing-in-Ground (WiGE): 81-160
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Classifications for Super-Heavy Combat Vehicles (https://www.sarna.net/wiki/Category:Super-Heavy_Combat_Vehicles)
- Hovercraft: 51-100
- Naval (Displacement & Submarine): 301-555
- Tracked: 101-200
- Wheeled: 81-160
- VTOL: 31-60
- Wing-in-Ground (WiGE): 81-160
Cool then yes this is a Heavy Hovercraft
Below is a link to a spin off story from the AU which will be told over the course of several posts. It will feature units and weapons from Marauder's Project Zhukov. I'd originally planned to write it before the fan-book came out but this has helped quite a bit, so my thanks to Marauder648 and I hope you all enjoy
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=67834.msg1569346#msg1569346 (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=67834.msg1569346#msg1569346)
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I haven't had time to write up the full timeline recently but for anyone interested in catching up I've just posted the short version of 3094 on OurBattleTech
https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=874.75#lastPost (https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=874.75#lastPost)
I'll update this as soon as I can
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Yay!
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It's been a while, too long, but with everything going on I felt the desire to write a bit and show not everything was changing. I'll hopefully do more updates on a more regular basis over the next few weeks.
I hope everyone who reads this is doing well, is healthy and enjoys it
Pirate Base
Freedom VI, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
8th October 3113
Gamma squad moved quickly through into the ground facility their four Purifier Battle Armour continuously shifting in pattern to match their surroundings as they did. Their mission was simple eliminate the pirates who were using Freedom VI as a staging ground and end the pirate raids that had been plaguing the nearby planets.
As they passed the outer building, they encountered the first guards waiting outside one of the sealed facilities. The first three troopers turned their weapons and gunned down three pirates who were on guard duty with their anti-personnel weapons each of the men were hit several times their EVA suits punctured by the weapons fire. They then swapped to their anti-armour weapons blasting open a door explosively venting the atmosphere each of the troopers entered quickly, inside they saw several pirates gasping for air as they tried to breath in a rapidly decompressing room. Gamma squad’s four troopers opened fire putting each of the pirates out of their misery beyond the room emergency bulkhead doors were closing sealing the rest of the facility off from their section. The bulkheads didn’t stop the troopers through who quickly moved towards the next secure door blasting open the door.
In the other section’s pirates had begun donning environmental suits and grabbing weapons turning against Gamma squad as weapons fire began to fill the corridors of the pirate’s facility. The Purifiers continued to move despite the weapons fire engaging the pirates at point blank range killing them one by one as they moved through the facility. Moving through the facility the members of Gamma squad didn’t stop until all of the pirates present at the base were dead one of the Gamma squad’s members and nearly forty pirates had fallen in the short brutal battle. Setting charges throughout the base Gamma squad left leaving the facility to explode burying all who had lost their lives in the fight.
Days later the pirate DropShip returned to the world to find at facility destroyed the company of BattleMechs that belonged to Raymond’s Hussars were all that was left of the company. In the wreckage of their base they found each of those who had fallen defending the base and a part of a Purifier Battle Armour suit now their mission had changed from raiding for profit to revenge.
Vision Quest
Ways of Seeing Park, New Barcella
Nova Cat’s Den
12th October 3113
The Ways of Seeing Park on New Barcella, the capital of the Nova Cat’s Den, was the litteral heart of the Nova Cat’s spirituality and Vision quests. Nova Cat warriors from across the Clan returned to New Barcella and the Ways of Seeing Park for their Vision Quests travelling across the park alone sacrificing their vineeers, searching for a vision of their path or the Clan’s path. Today Khan Canin Rosse was one of many Nova Cats taking their own personal quests. Canin had chased visions many times over his eighty years with Clan Nova Cat some had proven change his Clan irreprepreably while others had only led to minor changes.
Alone dozens of miles from the nearest other Nova Cat Canin Rosse sat with his legs crossed beside a small fire. He been sat in the same place for several hours without moving despite his vineers turning to ash and the weather turning to rain. No vision had come today, it wasn’t his first unsuccessful quest, this time he’d been sure. Instead he had waited for nothing, overhead a VTOL craft flew over his position before landing nearby Rosse ignored it knowing exactly who it would be. He heard the figure approaching “how is it that you always turn up when you know a warrior is at an impasse?” He said even before the massive hulk that was Oathmaster Klick Lenardon approached.
“A feeling” Lenardon said quietly “and satellites” he admitted Canin couldn’t help but smile glancing up at the warrior.
“They always help. I haven’t found anything helpful today” Rosse said uncrossing his legs stretching his muscles “I think I’m getting too old for this.” He said feeling the fatigue pass through him. Lenardon reached his arm down and grasped Rosse’s hand pulling up up to his feet as he did the blood rushed to the Khan’s head and images followed. Lenardon held the Khan until he regained his balance and met his eyes. “I’m getting to old for this” he said looking around him, looking for answers to the images.
“Bad?”
“Bad” Rosse confirmed “many Nova Cats with die if I am right and there’s something else, our very spirit is threatened.”
“Our spirit?”
“My vision showed a Nova Cat and its spirit being drawn from the body existing almost as its own entity, how can the Nova Cats be separated from its very own spirit?” The Khan said his voice almost shaking.
“The Nova Cat spirit is part of its very being, you being here shows our spirit is as strong as it has ever been our Khan leads us by example.” Lenardon said with a quiet confidence but the Khan looked visibly concerned.
“Until the example leads us off the path.” Khan Canin Rosse suggested worried about his own position and his own future as well as his Clan's suddenly things he thought were solid under his feet were threatened. "Perhaps it is time for me to move on? Perhaps my visions and my leadership are what brings us down this destructive path?"
"And perhaps its you doubting yourself and ignoring your spirit that causes the death and destruction you foresaw?" Klick Lenardon suggested "Khan Rosse you have led for many years, outlived many who could have done us harm, perhaps it is time for you to move on. Perhaps it is also time for you to remain and to ward off these threats."
"You are not helping" Rosse said angrily
"I am warning you not to make a hasty choice. Think about your vision and allow your it time to come to pass."
Trade Mission
Twin Sons, Smoke Jaguar Territory
District of Lesnovo, Free Worlds League
19th October 3113
Warrior-merchant Evan Sennet entered the meeting room with great apprehension he’d been meeting with people throughout the Free Worlds League making deals over the last couple of months but today today was going to be a strange day. In the room already sat Khan Petra Furey, the leader of the reborn Clan Smoke Jaguar, and General Ethan Brewer-Cameron-Jones one of the military leaders of the District of Lesnovo.
“Welcome to Twin Sons Warrior-merchant” the General said
“Thank you, General Brewer” he said “why did you choose to meet here instead of Lesnovo? Why is she here?” He almost spat looking at the younger woman
“A little respect from you little Fox” Furey responded
“To the leader of a failed Clan?” Sennet asked “your people are more than they once were but you are still not Clan. Perhaps I should have just brought warriors for a Trial of Absorption?”
“You would pay for it in blood. We aspire to rise again”
“Perhaps you should change your name to the Pheonix, Quineg?” He demanded looking at her a smile playing on his mouth.
“Neg” she snapped "our spirit is that of a Jaguar."
“I assume, General, that my being here instead of on Lesnovo is because of her, and her people Quiaff?” He asked looking at the Lesnovo leader who nodded “we cannot deal directly with the dezgra.” He said “but we would perhaps be willing to trade with yourself depending on what you are looking for?”
“Weapons, armour and ammunition that can be retrofitted onto BattleMechs. Battle Armour and Power armour units and some support equipment.” Brewer-Cameron-Jones said passing a small folder with paper pages inside. Sennet quickly picked up the document but stopped on one of the pages.
“We cannot provide these pieces of equipment” he said angrily throwing down several pieces of papers showing the Clan Iron Wombs “they could only be used for one thing which we cannot be part of.”
“Medical research” Brewer-Cameron-Jones said “our people’s health is of utmost importance. We plan to provide our people with superior medical care, better medical care than anyone else in the entire Free Worlds League. We could grow new limbs for people who were hurt in accidents, new organs for those in need of them.”
“And they could be used for other purposes”
“Which will be secondary to our primary goal” Furey said “initially weapons are what my people want out of this deal.”
“In exchange for?”
“An outpost on Twin Sons and access to our Ultra-Light BattleMech program along with our hand-held weapons.” Furey suggested
“Not enough” Sennet said looking at the General as well “her people know how important this is to them and they will offer us anything but if you wish our assistance as well then you will pay for the risks we will take.”
“We are also willing to offer you a permanent presence on Lesnovo.” He suggested but Sennet still didn’t look convinced “and sole control over the Rzhishchev system” he said naming a barely habited mining colony the system was close to another Sea Fox holding on Westover and make it their third fully controlled FWL system. “Although if anyone wishes to leave you will allow them to?”
“Affirmative, we will allow that” Sennet agreed “we will deal with the District not with the Clansmen that you have on your payroll.” He snarled at Furey “we will also not deal with them in future negotiations. If they arrive we will meet as warriors not as negotiators.”
Planetary Defence Command, IrTech Headquarters
Kentwood, Irian,
District of Marik, Free Worlds League
28th October 3113
Though he’d done so on a hundred other worlds Marshal Richard Steiner found it strange entering the planetary defence command on Irian as it was not located in deep inside a military bunker or even on a military installation instead it was in the heart of the IrTech Headquarters. Through the centuries the company had gained defacto control over the entire world with its factories employing more than three quarters of the population directly and funding the employment of the remaining quarter. The Free Worlds League government had always maintained good relations with the world and the world had always supplied the armed forces of the Free Worlds League with some of the best equipment the Inner Sphere could build so it was a relationship that worked for them. For a Federated Suns officer, even one who had been out of his nation’s chain of command for some time, it felt strange he walked up to the reception desk to be greeted by the receptionist she was young perhaps twenty years old had dark blonde hair tied back in a ponytail and was dressed in a corporate blue/purple suit of IrTech.
“Good morning, sir” she greeted raising from her chair.
“Good morning, I’m here to see Colonel Helmuth Laue” he said naming the commander of the Irian Corporate Guards another thing that felt wrong. Of the three Free Worlds League units based on Irian it was the Corporate officer who was in charge of planetary defence, the unit was also the strongest defence unit on the world at three reinforce combined arms regiments.
“Of course please wait a moment” she said Richard Steiner stood to the side and waited, as other people were spoken to calmly by the receptionist like any other day not a day that Clan invaders were landing on the planetary soil.
A young FWLM Lieutenant approached dressed in his standard day to day uniform “Marshal Steiner?” He asked Richard felt like asking him how many other Federated Suns uniformed Marshals there were on the planet but chose not to and simply nodded. “Colonel Laue will see you now if you come this way.”
He was led through the complex passed dozens of Free Worlds League militia officers to a set of offices inside the largest stood Colonel Helmuth Laue a large barrel of a man dressed in a Free Worlds League uniform that looked more like a corporate suit than a uniform. “Guten Nachmittag, wie geht es Ihnen” he greeted in his native German.
“guten Nachmittag, bin ich fein danke” Richard replied despite his Steiner name he was actually a better French speaker than a German one but he knew enough to have a conversation of the Colonel decided that was how today would go.
“Very good Marshal, I’m glad you are in good health, the people of Kivapura are treating you well?” He asked switching to English naming the city that the Kathil Uhlans had been based at since arriving on Irian a month before.
“Yes, Colonel Watt and the Seventh has been very helpful.”
“Then how can I help you Marshal?”
“As my unit is presently representing both the Federated Suns and Star League Defence Force I have been authorised by the SLDF to extend this offer Colonel.” He said handing over a small datapad Helmuth Lawe took the bad and looked at it briefly before heading over to the Drinks cabinet pouring himself an Irian Whisky he then poured one for Steiner as well.
“You know I came here from the Lyran Commonwealth nearly twenty years ago?” He asked walking over with the glasses handing one to Steiner. “I was sick of the internal bickering of the LCAF the lack of coordination against a joint threat and the continuous uncertainty. The money enticed me and I thought Irian of all the worlds wouldn’t be threatened with external threat.”
“Yet here we are, the Free Worlds League cannot support you already here on Irian the First Atrean Dragoons are no more due to the Clan Wolf raids the District of Marik unwilling to stump up the funds to rebuild them.” He said even though they were based on a factory world the unit had been informed it could not take resources from the factory without IrTech approval the warriors of the unit had refused to join the Irian Corporate Guards and so been refused support so instead they had merged with the Seventh Marik Militia keeping them operational. With the fall of Avellaneda and Abadan they are even more on the defence now than ever.”
“Regulus dropped the ball on that one even the mercenaries we had here could have held back the Wolves instead they pulled back at the first sign of Clan attack.” He said angrily drinking some of his whisky. “I assume you’ve already spoken to Colonel Watt regarding this?” He asked it was breaking protocol but Steiner had fought with the Colonel for over a month.
“Affirmative, even with the Atrean Dragoons merging with the Seventh the unit is paper thin and in need of more than a year of rest and refit. The last communication they had from command higher than yourself was three months ago, the unit are tired and feel abandoned they are ready for a change.”
“IrTech would welcome them”
“I’m sure you would but with the Harbinger’s destruction last week the Enterprise alone cannot hold back Wolf Naval forces.”
“Two SLDF WarShips arrived yesterday.”
“The Oslo and Paris are here to escort my unit out of the system, we’ve already given more blood in this nation than we ever expected.” Steiner explained “they would remain in the system if we had a reason to remain.”
“You do your name well” Lawe suggested that the Marshal was leaning on his family’s deal maker heritage. “So what would happen if I took this deal to the executives and the Hughes with my support?”
“Irian would essentially become a member state of the Star League Protectorate and gain all support member worlds are entitled to. IrTech would be welcome to continue to sell goods to the Free Worlds League as part of this deal and would be welcome to bid for contracts across the Star League held worlds.”
“Which they already do” Lawe pointed out that wasn’t a selling point for the deal.
“But being from a member world would give them additional weight in any negotiation.”
“And what about the forces here?”
“The Seventh have already decided that they will remain on Irian after this change. We’ve worked with them for months so I could see the unit being merged with my own but that is not presently my decision to make. The Enterprise will be jumping out of the system tonight her CO has already decided that they belong in the Free Worlds League and they are willing to take anyone with them who wants to join.” Richard Steiner explained breaking down the Free Worlds League units on planet. “The Wild Watchdogs and the Zodiac Phantoms have both been offered contracts with the SLDF both are considering their position, while also open to signing on with Irian if this system chooses to remain independent, neither wish to return to the Free Worlds League.”
“And my own forces?”
“Officially you’d be classed as mercenary forces directly under the control of IrTech. If you wished you could take contracts across the Inner Sphere or remain here. I’d expect if Irian decided to join the Protectorate you’d be welcome.”
“Why are you an officer of the AFFS passing this message? Why is it not one of the commanders of the WarShips that have arrived or a negotiator?”
“My unit has officially decided to join the SLDF as full-time members. Since we left the Federated Suns we’ve taken on so many recruits from the Free Worlds League we’re not entirely from the nation that built us. We’ve seen the good we can do across the Inner Sphere and we wish to continue to help worlds.”
“Will they allow you to go home to see your families?” Lawe asked out of curiosity more than anything since leaving Lyran service he hadn’t once set foot on his homeworld despite leaving on good terms. What the Uhlans were doing sounded like outright desertion.”
“That will be up to the Federated Suns and is something we will discuss once out of the combat zone. For now, we are each with members of our family, our unit.”
“In principle I agree with the ideas here but it will be up to the Company and Mr Hughes to decide wether or not to proceed.”
“I understand that, I’ll return to my unit, feel free to communicate with any other command during this time as well as with the Enterprise before she leaves orbit.” He said finishing off the drink Lawe had poured him placing down the glass then giving the Colonel a salute before leaving the office. Lawe walked over to the drinks cabinet and poured himself another drink, there were huge changes on the horizon for his world.
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Yay an update and thank you for it! Hope everyone is doing well!!! :thumbsup:
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Your like that pompous pilot guy...
Always washing his hands of things!
Wonder what else your writing can dirtify?
TT
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Excellent update! Irian as a Protectorate world huh? That's some serious financial and industrial muscle!
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Nice update DC.
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Glad to see something familiar return DC :thumbsup:
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I'm disappointed that the Enterprise is joining the Free Worlds League, other wise most welcome entry in the saga known as the Alternate Timeline with Thanks (FULL)!
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Your like that pompous pilot guy...
Always washing his hands of things!
Wonder what else your writing can dirtify?
TT
Well recently I've done a few different things
Voyage of the Massena a nBSG spin off with original characters
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=65981.0 (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=65981.0)
And slightly older Master Chief meets the Avengers
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=65693.0 (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=65693.0)
Excellent update! Irian as a Protectorate world huh? That's some serious financial and industrial muscle!
And a headache to come
I'm disappointed that the Enterprise is joining the Free Worlds League, other wise most welcome entry in the saga known as the Alternate Timeline with Thanks (FULL)!
They've already got an SLS Enterprise an Enterprise II Supercarrier
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https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=65693.0 (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=65693.0)
They've already got an SLS Enterprise an Enterprise II Supercarrier
I thought that was the ship was returning to the FWL.
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I thought that was the ship was returning to the FWL.
No its MS Enterprise a Venturer class
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So it's a case of right name, wrong ship...
TT
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Anyone who has any storylines they'd like to see explored over the next few years of the timeline I'm currently penciling in the next few years of the story and am looking for ideas to cushion it out.
Feel free to PM me with your ideas I'll take anything you've got and turn it into something
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Anything recent on Cyclops Station?
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Anything recent on Cyclops Station?
It's been a while
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I'm hoping every little helps at the moment, this is my little bit
Planetary Invasion
Alphard, Marian Hegemony
Periphery
4th November 3113
In a move responding to increased pirate activity along their border but not authorized by the Free Worlds League Government the District of Lesnovo enter the Alphard system with the equivalent six regiments worth of troops supported by the WarShip Streaking Mist.
In defence of its homeworld the barely operational WarShip MHS Hanse attempted to stop the Lesnovo forces but the Lola III-class Destroyer was no match for the Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser which swept past the vessel crushing it in a single flying pass with heavy autocannon fire. With no other WarShips to oppose them the District of Lesnovo forces had progressed rapidly towards the planet.
Leading her forces from the seat of her Shadow Cat OmniMech Khan Petra Furey controlled the fall of the Mech as her forces entered the atmosphere. “Jaguars and Lesnovo forces we do not stop until the Palace is rubble and the Caesar lays dead at my feet.” She broadcast as a group of aerospace fighters flew past her falling Mech engaging the rising Marian forces. Right now she was at her most vulnerable in a forty-five ton falling OmniMech with minimal capability to protect herself she would rely on those fighters for the next few minutes.
The Jaguar Aerospace Fighters were simply better trained and better equipped to deal with the Marian fighters. While most of Clan Sea Fox’s weapons were being filtered to their forces which were based in the district she’d taken her most battle hardened warriors for this battle. Below they knew that there were the three main defence forces of the Marian Hegemony and Caesar Alekandr Ward leader of the nation. It had been a hard sell with the people of Lesnovo that this was the best course of action but she had convinced them that with Alphard under Free Worlds League control they could have peace along this Periphery border they she could turn towards other issues. Once the operation had been agreed the people had been quite happy to throw themselves behind it and the warriors appeared to be ready for a fight, it would be a good test for them, and those that survived would be welcomed into the ranks of the Smoke Jaguar. The people of Lesnovo didn’t appear to be overly affected by her people’s heritage or the troubles associated with the Smoke Jaguar name instead they were happy to see her people improving their infrastructure, their defence and their place in the Free Worlds League.
While she thought about what could be for her people, she realized the altitude alarm was sounding and cut in her OmniMech’s Jump Jets as it fell slowing her descent. She saw that many of her forces were already on the ground and pushing towards enemy forces. Zooming in on them she saw that it was her own Alpha Galaxy that were at the front of the push followed closely by the First Rim Crusaders. In her cockpit Petra smiled the Rim Crusaders were perhaps one of the most vocal in their support for her people believing that too long they had waited for others to make choices for them.
As the Khan’s Shadow Cat landed on the ground she detected a flight of incoming missiles and dodged to the right allowing them to harmlessly fly by glancing at her sensors Khan Furey saw what Mech the missiles had come from, a one hundred ton monster known Grand Crusader II, on its chest was the symbol of the Word of Blake. “Stavag!” She shouted out angrily turning on the Mech firing her Shadow Cat’s Gauss Rifle hitting the Grand Crusader right in the middle of the chest, the BattleMech ignored the monster as only and assault Mech could and turned both of its arm mounted pulse lasers on her firing catching the Mech across its left side melting away armour. Petra was outmatched and she knew it but so did the other forces around her. While a Jaguar warrior would not interfere with her battle the forces of the District of Lesnovo were less choosy and together nearly a full company of Rim Crusader BattleMechs opened up on the enemy Grand Crusader II. While an assault Mech could ignore one gauss rifle they couldn’t ignore hundreds of missiles, supported by lasers, particle cannons and autocannons. The Grand Crusader pilot obviously thought he could take on anything as he continued to engage the Free Worlds League troops but it was a battle he could never win. Petra ran her Shadow Cat around the under siege giant and fired several laser shots into its back causing damage to the Mech’s gyro and engine surprisingly the pilot did not eject instead he continued to fight even as a second assault from the Rim Crusaders landed around the Mech Petra chse to ignore the Mech there was no glory in combining with others to kill a Mech even one the size of the Grand Crusader. “Khan Petra Furey to all forces confirmed Word of Blake forces on Alphard, repeat confirmed Word of Blake forces on the planet unknown strength, proceed with caution.”
Quickly as the battle continued to progress different units confirmed the presence of further Word of Blake units which were supporting the defence of Alphard. For a split second Petra Furey was tempted to call on the unthinkable and ask the Streaking Mist to bombard the Marian capital city but she knew what it would look like that the Jaguars had not learned from their predecessors mistake and repeared the Turtle Bay Massacre making them a target for everyone in the Inner Sphere. Today was not the day for that action instead the Jaguars continued to grind through the Marian and Word of Blake forces sacrificing the First Rim Sentinels Regiment almost in its entirety with the survivors merged with the Smoke Jaguar’s Beta Galaxy formation its warriors accepted as abtakha, accepted warriors.
Pushing through the shattered streets Khan Petra Furey and the other Jaguars turned onto an almost prestine open boulevard which led through the centre of the city and was wide enough for a dozen BattleMechs to march along side by side. At the end of the boulevard she saw her target, the Caesar’s Palace, in front of it stood a wall of BattleMechs and armour. “This is Khan Petra Furey of the District of Lesnovo who defends this palace?”
“A KHAN? What Clan do you represent? Why are you defiling the Blessed soil of Blake?” A young sounding voice called out Furey tracked the transmission to a strange looking BattleMech that appeared almost to have a hawk like head, broad almost padded shoulders, a large cannon on one arm and a sword or some sort of retractable blade on the other. It was a large Mech at least eighty tons perhaps heavier.
“I am Khan Petra Furey of Clan Smoke Jaguar, and I am here to rid the Inner Sphere of your menace and end the threat to the District of Lesnovo.”
“SMOKE JAGUAR!!” The other warrior screamed before bursting into almost manical laughter “FINALLY, the children of the Blessed Blake are allowed to destroy what we, APOLLYN’S CHOSEN, were born to do.” The warrior almost screamed stepping forward his BattleMech along the line the entire line of Mechs and armour moved forwards. “I am Aleksandr Ward, Caesar of Alphard, Chosen Brother of Cassandra and Faithful Brother of Blake!” He announced as the moving line opened fire almost as one some how not a single shot hit Khan Furey’s battered OmniMech.
“That is all I wanted to know. All units, this is Furey, commence immediate bombardment!” From behind her forces lines artillery positions set up by her forces began to bombard the incoming enemy forces. Her own line of BattleMechs and armour opened fire simultaneously targeting enemy positions. “We do not stop until they are all dead!” She commanded accelerating forwards engaging her Shadow Cat’s MASC system taking her several kilometres closer to the enemy she fired her gauss rifles as she moved decapitating an enemy Stinger BattleMech killing its pilot. She then headed to the right twisting her Mech’s torso as she did firing several laser shots into a passing tank before turning the gauss rifle on the Caesar’s mystery Mech blasting its chest with the weapon the Mech shrugged off the attack and opened fire on it with its autocannon hammering away armour on the Mech’s torso and leg. Petra returned fire with her Gauss rifle again with a Shadow Hawk and a Thanatos opening fire on the same target. Petra turned to see one of the Mechs that had fired was a Jaguar BattleMech and took a mental note of the Mech, the Marians had broken duling laws but her people were Jaguars, she’d see them in a Circle of Equals if they survived this battle. In the meantime however she had more important things to do, like killing the Caesar. As she moved her Mech she sprayed the strange Mech with laser fire as it twisted its torso and tried to hit her with the bladed arm the retractable blade flew out of the BattleMech’s arm but thankfully missed her Shadow Cat. Instead of tempting fate again by remaining so close she engaged the Shadow Cat’s jump jets launching herself away from the target as autocannon shells hammered the location she had been standing in and the air around her Mech. She was outgunned by the enemy Mech but she wasn’t about to let that get to her cutting the jump short she twisted the Shadow Cat’s torso and fired a gauss rifle shot straight into the the enemy Mech shattering its left torso armour and the missile launcher there. The Mech staggered back but then fired again on her this time with missiles and a particle cannon both of which ripped into her Mech’s left arm. Glancing at the damage she saw the precious gauss rifle, her main weapon, was not damaged and lined up another shot this one flew straight past the targeted Mech impacting on the back of a Catapult that had come to the aid of the Caesar. Petra was happy to see a huge explosion blossom from the Catapult as its missile bin exploded blowing through the Mech’s armour gutting it throwing the BattleMech to the ground as fire consumed its torso and its pilot, how a Mech by modern standards didn’t have CASE bemused Petra but she didn’t have time to gloat as the Caesar ripped into her Shadow Cat with more autocannon fire. Glancing down Petra saw that the armour was now breached on two parts of her Mech’s torso, the Shadow Cat wasn’t built for this kind of battle. The last thing she wanted to do was ask for help from another warrior.
Fortunately, she did not need to call for assistance as fate was on her side as the enemy Mech stepped forwards it stepped on a mine which had been seeded during their initial artillery bombardment. The explosion ripped up the right-hand side of the huge Mech consuming its right foot completely as it tore open the armour there snapping the myomer muscles which allowed the Mech to move fluidly. The huge Mech stumbled forwards as the pilot struggled to control his now crippled Mech but there was little chance of remaining standing as Petra fired another gauss shot straight into the right leg buckling the knee joint on the crippled limb. The huge Mech finally seemed to give up its fight with gravity and slammed down on the ground ripping the autocannon arm right off and embedding the retractable blade in the ground.
As the battle continued to rage around her Petra walked over opening a general radio frequency to the whole field. “Chosen?” She taunted the downed pilot as he tried to force his Mech back to its feet. “Chosen to die to the Jaguar’s Claws perhaps.” She said finally slamming her Shadow Cat’s foot down on the cockpit of the enemy Mech killing the pilot. Unlike in the tri-vid movies the battle did not end there even as Jaguars occupied and destroyed the Caesar’s Palace fighting continued for a further eighteen hours as defence elements of Alphard continued to resist and die to the invader’s guns. It did not go all the way of the District of Lesnovo’s way however three regiments from the District of Lesnovo’s own defence forces were essentially destroyed in the fighting with their survivors folded into the forces of the Smoke Jaguars swelling their touman’s ranks.
In the coming days assaults by the Free World’s Leagues District of Lesnovo and neighbouring District of Bowang saw a further nine systems fall as the Marian Hegemony began to collapse under the pressure of the attacks. The final death blow to the nation came however as Magistracy of Canopus forces launched attacks along the border systems crushing many of the Marian’s remaining defence units leaving a little over a brigade of warriors remaining reducing the Marian Hegemony Armed Forces to little more than a pirate band. Within months the systems of Sean, Charybdis IX and Chi Ceti VI are raided by these pirates and the factions around them so much that they are essentially classed as dead worlds with populations no longer sustainable beyond the current generation.
New Avalon News Network
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
18th November 3113
The lights in the studio came up to show a dark skinned man in his thirties dressed in a light grey suit with a dark “Davion” green tie. Behind him sat the Federated Suns flag with an image of Prince Luther Davion in front of it. “Ladies and Gentlemen of New Avalon, I am Theo Besson of the New Avalon News Network and tonight I bring you breaking news on our Prince, Luther Davion.” He said in a New Avalonian French-accent. He briefly shuffled some papers as the NANN’s theme tune played over the broadcast before looking back at the tri-vid camera once more. “Tonight, NANN has learned that Prince Luther Davion has been shot by a would-be assassin on Terra.” He said rapidly announcing the news. “The Prince was at a social event in Geneva when the assignation attempt took place.” He said continuing the news event. “It is believed that Prince Luther was rushed to the primary care facility in Geneva following the attack and while he has been severely injured he is described to be in a stable condition. There has been no comment from the Star League Embassy here on New Avalon nor from the Davion Royal Family’s official spokesperson regarding this event.”
“As many of you will know Prince Luther has been studying at the Sandhurst Military Academy on Terra after choosing the Star League Academy over Federated Suns based institutions as a way of bringing the Star League and the Federated Suns closer together. During this time he has been seen visiting his Grandfather Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion and his Grandmother Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion” The Besson said as an image of Luther was seen “it is not believed that Star League Leader Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion was at the event where Prince Luther was injured, the Star League leader is reportedly currently visiting Star League Defence Force units which are based on the Clan Wolf border.” He said changing one of the pages on his table. “Over the past several weeks there has been talk of Luther returning to New Avalon for a break from his studies on Terra and possibly taking up a position at the New Avalon Institute of Sciences, it is possible that this unprovoked attack on the Prince may drive him into choosing to return to the Federated Suns on a full time basis.”
“We will have more on this story throughout the night here on the New Avalon News Network but to recap Prince Luther Davion has been shot and severely injured on Terra, his injuries at this time are not expected to be life threatening.”
Raids
Free Worlds League
22nd November 3113
Beginning with the world of New Delos and continuing through more than a dozen worlds throughout the Free Worlds League raids are conducted against Free Worlds League weapons depots, food storage facilities and fuel refineries. In each raid those involved use the colours of neighbouring states to throw off defenders’ perceptions of who is involved leading to border conflicts between the Free Worlds League, the Capellan Confederation, the Lyran Commonwealth and the Magistracy of Canopus there are also internal fights between the various districts of the Free Worlds League.
Only on one of the worlds are the attackers quite clear on the world of Wallis two distinct units are seen one is well known pirate band Lincoln’s Rotting Corpse, a regiment sized combined arms unit, while the other is a known Word of Blake splinter unit the Whispers of Blake. During the fighting the two units successfully occupy Ronin Incorporated destroying the Sixth Cameron-Jones Guard and driving back the corporately hired Chaos Irregulars Mercenary Command. While the Irregulars remain an active command with many Regulan warriors joining their ranks the Whispers essentially are in control over the system.
Among the Whispers forces is a single MIT-23 Medical Transport Vehicle, four Raptor II BattleMechs and several squads of unkown Battle Armour forces who take several MechWarriors prisoner including Chaos Irregulars warriors Colonel Ariel Peregrine-Simpson and MechWarrior Aletha Chowla.
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Thank you for understanding update to the story!
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Woah. The Jaguars triggered big game of dominoes across the Free Worlds League.
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An excellent update, and it seems that Ceasar Ward went right off the deep end! Part of me hopes the Cat's capture the refitting Endeavour class ship the former SLS C. Sagan. That mech sounds interesting too, some custom job for the Ceasar, the eagle stylings sound like it was trying to inspire the Roman eagle.
The botched assassination attempt is worrying, I wonder who was behind that. And Word splinters are popping up a lot, not good!
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Dragon Cat I WOULD LOVE TO SEE SOME STORY LINES WITH CLAN BLOOD SPIRIT. THANK YOU
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Dragon Cat I WOULD LOVE TO SEE SOME STORY LINES WITH CLAN BLOOD SPIRIT. THANK YOU
Been a while since weve seen the stone spirits I'll see what I can do
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Oh my Word! What have you done to the Marians?!?
TT
>:D
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Oh my Word! What have you done to the Marians?!?
TT
>:D
Ruined them a bit >:D
Hope everyone's doing alright here's a bit more
Capellan Confederaton national Census
Andurien Commonality
Periphery
1st December 3113
As part of the national Census of the Capellan Confederation officials announce that they will officially recoignise the worlds of Ichangis, Fjadr, Bringdam, Ryans Fate, Enkra, Mechdur and Zangul all along the Taurian Concordat/Fronc Reaches all of which will be opened to visitors and immigration for the first time. While all the systems had been inhabited for years they had officially not been registered as they had extremely small populations.
The Capellans announce that further relocations of the nation’s population will take place in the following months to boost these worlds economy and improve the economy of other worlds. They also announce plans for the system of Victoria to once again be recoignised as a Commonality Capital within the next two years as more worlds are brought back into the Capellan Confederation.
Rebel assault
Wallis, District of Regulus
Free Worlds League
12th December 3113
Jocoam “Jake” Chowla was hated his new BattleMech he’d captured it from the Whispers of Blake for this assault it weighed in at seventy tons had three particle cannons, a gauss rifle and a retractable blade but it was uncomfortable to sit in. The space designated for the cockpit was tiny and had a weird interface that he wasn’t able to use instead he sat uncomfortably in the Mech waiting for the Whispers guards to allow him to enter their base.
This plan was more than two weeks in the making and he didn’t plan on messing it up now. Behind him were his two Mechs and three vehicles making up their “patrol unit” he didn’t like the idea of a unit being divisable by 6 but that’s what the Whispers employed just like the Word of Blake so he’d play along. In the hills around them the rest of the Chaos Irregulars and local militia were waiting for his signal.
Finally, the guards allowed him and his companions to enter. Jake stepped his Mech forwards through the large metal gates as they opened and stopped allowing his companions to enter first, he knew it wouldn’t take long for the Whispers to realise that the Mechs that had accompanied his Mech were not the same that left. Across the courtyard of the Whispers fire base Jake saw several troopers running into a hut before running out carrying portable short-range missile launchers while others began climbing into several vehicles. “Operation Code: GAMES UP!” Jake shouted a warning firing all three of the torso mounted particle cannons into the hut where the troopers had gotten their heavy weapons consuming it in weapons fire. Behind him the gate began closing again but Jake wasn’t about to allow his force to be contained instead he spun his BattleMech’s torso bringing the left arm and its retractable blade down on the door bisecting it. He then kicked out with his seventy ton Mech’s foot slamming into the gate knocking the broken part to the ground below infantry began to pepper his Mech with small arms fire but he ignored them he wasn’t outfitted to engage them instead he spun his Mech’s torso again and levelled the right arm at a barracks facility firing the gauss rifle into it knocking in one of the walls. The Gauss rifle itself wasn’t an explosive weapon using force and speed to cause the damage which was what he needed making the building accessible without destroying it. Around him it was chaos as his lance mates continued to fire on enemy forces out of the back of a Goblin Infantry Fighting Vehicle infantry troopers began to spill out of the back as the vehicle crew covered them firing its machine guns and pulse laser. Unlike the vehicle which had been repainted white for this operation the infantry wore their Chaos Irregulars uniform.
From the Mechbay a seventy-five ton Toyama stepped clear of the facility firing its arm mounted autocannon and lasers only to be hit by by Jake’s particle cannons and several large lasers, missiles and autocannons from Jake’s companions as they all ganged up on the heavy Mech cutting it to pieces in a ferocious display of combined fire. Jake turned the gauss rifle on the target and hit it again adding in the particle cannons again as the enemy Mech fell. “Infantry clear out the buildings find our people!” He snapped “Wolf to Sheepdog, we’re in begin assault.”
“Sheepdog to Wolf, we’ve engaged the Whispers nearly ten kilometres from the base they had people out and about. Assault force delayed on rendezvoux. Mission outcome unknown.”
“Wolf, I’m not giving up now. Get here when you can we’ll hold them up!” Jade shouted angrily at the militia man he hadn’t expected to find more Whispers in the field most of them in this area were supposed to be in their base. As he fought determinedly to keep the enemy off balance several missiles slammed into his Mech the last one carried an inferno warhead which exploded covering his Mech in flaming liquid. “Son of a…” Jake screamed angrily firing his Mech’s particle cannons into the group of infantries as he swiped at the Mech’s chest with his retractable blade cutting away much of the liquid away from his Mech but still the heat was still rising. “I need some help here!” He shouted a warning his Mech had no explosive ammunition but the gauss rifle could be a bomb itself it things got really out of hand.
Fortunately for Jake several of the infantry had been paying attention to his plight and had commandeered a Saurer-Bucher fire fighting vehicle and were already dousing his in coolant it wasn’t perfect but it was helping. Jake paid them back by hitting a Whispers of Blake Saracen Hovertank his gauss rifle shot went straight through the hovertank causing its explosive ammunition to explode consuming the craft in fire. The infantry forces in the fire fighting vehicle continued to cool his Mech extinguishing the flames. “Thanks boys!” He shouted stepping away from them engaging a Whispers of Blake Ghurka BattleMech flattening the light BattleMech with his assault.
“Wolf, we’ve got the Colonel and Aletha along with thirty that is three-zero other combants we’re extracting to transport!” One of the squad leaders reported
“Commandeer whatever you need we’ll cover!” Jake responded anxious to ask how Aletha was after she’d been shot out of her Mongoose fighting the Whispers. Off to his right the Argus that was in his lance exploded as another Whispers of Blake Mech jumped over the compound fences landing on its left shoulder slamming the sixty-ton Mech into the floor as it exploded. “Com’on!” Jake shouted turning on the newly landed Wraith BattleMech it was smaller than his Mech and faster it was also armed with a series of pulse lasers that lashed out at this Mech bathing it in glowing light as more than a ton or armour vapourized.
Jake twisted his Mech’s torso towards the Wraith and unleashed all three particle cannons adding in his gauss rifle as it came in line. Two of the particle cannons sizzled by the rounded armour Mech while the third slammed into its head melting the armour there. Jake had been in a Mech after suffering a head hit and actually felt a little sorry for the pilot just as his gauss rifle slug slammed into its right leg. The heavy damage caused the pilot to lose control and fall over. Jake turned to finish off the Wraith only for a particle cannon shot to slam into his back burning through torso armour and internal structure ruining one of the particle cannons. “Get the hell out of here PBIs!” He shouted angrily as the fire truck, two Bruno II Cargo trucks and a Pit Bull flat bed pulled out following the Goblin clear of the base. Jake saw one of his lancemates run over to the Wraith that was beginning to get back up and swing out with its armoured fist. The BattleMech hand went straight through the Wraith’s already damaged head armour crushing the pilot inside. Jake didn’t like to see MechWarriors execute other MechWarriors like that but he’d seen a lot of the Chaos Irregulars killed in the last few days and he didn’t think it was over yet.
Turning he saw a Whispers of Blake Puma combat vehicle engage them again with its particle cannon and long-range missiles showering the Goblin with fire. The Infantry Fighting Vehicle stood up to the fire and returned fire with its own pulse laser but it couldn’t hold off attack from the larger vehicle for long. “I promise you the BattleMech running at you is a bigger threat” Jake cursed running at the combat vehicle hitting it with both of his particle cannons as he ran, he’d used some of his gauss ammo already and didn’t plan on wasting shots. The Puma engaged again with LRMs and the particle cannon this time bypassing the Goblin hitting the a Saurer-Bucher fire fighting truck which immediately blew up, the civilian vehicle wasn’t designed with such an attack in mind. “You ********!” Jake cursed continuing his charge hitting the tank again as he closed range bringing the gauss rifle up for a near point blank shot. Gauss rifles weren’t designed to be fired this close but today he didn’t care and watched the slug slam through several plates of armour as the slug hit it at supersonic speeds. He then kicked out with his right leg kicking through the Puma’s tank tread before spinning the Mech’s torso putting the retractable blade through its top armour. Internal exlosions were going off as Jake retracted the blade looking around, he realized in his rage that his convoy and both surviving lancemates had moved nearly off the battlefield downing three more Whispers of Blake units as they did forcing the rogue unit back. Jake took one look at the Saurer-Bucher before turning to join the other survivors “sorry guys, I owed you better, you saved my ass. I’ll save your planet, I promise you.” He said finally before following the other Chaos Irregulars. The Whispers of Blake were now on the backfoot, they weren’t beaten on Wallis but for the first time in this fight they weren’t on top of the pile.
While things turn on the side of the FWL on Wallis elsewhere in the nation Districts square off against each other in several systems as they blame each other for the blakes began by the former Word of Blake warriors. On several worlds line regiments of different districts fact of for the first time since the reformation of the Free Worlds League only for calmer heads to prevail and stand forces down before full blown hostilites erupt.
Mechfactory floor, Bay 4B
Wolf City, Gallery
Halfway Province, Lyran Commonwealth
22nd December 3113
For maybe the hundredth time since assuming a leadership role Scientist General Riko Danvers escorted Halfway Province Duke Robert Linius through the Wolf City showing him what the remains of Clan Mountain Wolf had created on the world. Recently they had added two new “Gallery Defenders” Clusters to their defence force which was mostly just Combat Vehicles supported by infantry. But today was a more important day for today they would be able to show the Lyran Commonwealth a new toy “designed and built” entirely on Gallery by his Wolves and ready to serve the Commonwealth or at least that’s what he would be telling this Lyran leader he didn’t need to know that they’d had help with it or where the design had originated.
“Allow me to present you the Kharon Heavy Cavalry BattleMech.” He said showing the Duke the new humanoid BattleMech. “With enough speed to out maneuver any assault Mech on the field it will provide mobility for your forces.” He promised the Mech could reach 86kph nothing too special for a heavy Clan Mech but far more than any assault Mech could reach. “Two Extended Range Large Lasers provide the reach to strike enemy units are mounted on the right side replacing most of the right arm and shoulder assemblies.” He said pointing out the two large laser weapons that dominated that side of the Mech. “A heavy-duty gyroscope provides additional stability to balance out these weapons” he explained seeing the duke look at the weapons the heavier Gyro also hid some of the electronics that his scientists had imbedded in the Endo Steel Hull. “Two long range missile launchers on the left side complement the lasers and allow for indirect bombardment, minefield laying and other support missions. While a medium pulse laser, a targeting computer and ECM suite round out the Mech’s offensive and defensive capabilities.” He explained
“So, it’s a Mad Cat in a hull five tons lighter?”
“Not quite”
“But still a capable heavy model we can well to the Lyran military?”
“Yes, WE can” Danvers said “other than the Gyro the technology involved is Clan based. However, we can also accommodate Inner Sphere technologies that are desired.”
“Excellent work Danvers, I can see why we allowed you to stay here. I want a Kharon in my personal guard.” The Duke said quite enjoying the idea of having a new Mech to share with the Commonwealth.
“You can have this one”
“Excellent does it come in red?”
“I’m sure our techs can paint one in that colour” Riko Danvers said looking at the Lyran wishing he could do something else with the Kharon which would make a red colour mainly out of the Duke at the moment. The man was a necessary evil for his Mountain Wolves but he’d use him for as long as he’d need him and having one of his Mechs as part of the planetary guard wouldn’t hurt.
“Excellent, excellent what else do you have for me?”
“We have housed another four hundred-and-twenty refugees in sector three.”
“Something interesting Danvers, you handle these new people well I’m happy for you to educate them and put them to work.” Duke Robert Linius said as they walked deeper into the facility.
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Interesting entry, DragonCat! For second there, i thought my merc's commander's daughter was in the fight on that Free World's League world!
Is there stats for the Kharon Heavy Cavalry BattleMech posted?
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* grumbles - insert more orbitary fire here - *
::)
TT
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Someone hurt TT's whispers.
More please. :D ;)
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Is there stats for the Kharon Heavy Cavalry BattleMech posted?
It's a variant of a mech posted recently in a fanbook... run by part of that faction in this AU all I'm going to say...
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Before I jump into the next section please see attached the active units and active WarShips
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Before I jump into the next section please see attached the active units and active WarShips
Good to see the Mailed Fist are still going strong.
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Only thing I can see is the Rim Collection's RCS Hellstorm (York-class) missing from the naval side. Great job continuing this timeline! :thumbsup:
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As always, superb stuff!
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End of 3113 map at the following link as it won't attach here
https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=1092.30#lastPost (https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=1092.30#lastPost)
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3114
Launching Ceremony,
LCS Iron Fist (Mjolnir-class Battle-cruiser), Tharkad Orbit
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
3rd January 3114
Doctor Michael Queen of Lockheed/CBM of Tharkad strode onto the gravity deck of the WarShip LCS Iron Fist waiting for him were a group of people including Lyran leader Archon Jessica Steiner. “Thank you for waiting” he said as he approached “ladies and gentlemen today Lockheed/CBM are happy to announce that we have a new vessel for the use of the military and with your permission the greater market.” He said for years the company had produced Sub-compact cored WarShips meaning they were producing the smallest jump capable vessels in space the Lyran Commonwealth had benefited greatly from the Peter-class Scout and the Isis-class Carrier Scout vessels and now their allies in the SLDF and Federated Suns were also benifitting through the SLDF alliance it was expected that other nations would also benefit. He raised a small communicator to his mouth “DropShips release vessel” he said commanding the two modified Behemoth-class DropShips to disengage. Both vessels were docked together in the “nose-on” position, both had been extensively modified turning them into Lockheed/CBM’s shipyard facility capable of facilitating the construction of the tiny WarShips the company specialized in. This allowed them to move the facility around the Tharkad system, and beyond if they desired, to keep their work as secret as possible. On the monitors the two huge DropShips detached from each other to reveal a slender, almost sharklike vessel within.
“Designed like other vessels that Lockheed has produced to disappear into commercial DropShip traffic the end profit can be built to any hull shape you desire. Twenty-five thousand tons in weight it is designed with stealth and speed in mind. Its weapons are a mix of long range missiles, gauss rifles, particle cannons and lasers while Anti-missile systems protect the craft. Two small craft can also be carried these can be armed or they can supplement the vessel’s primary mission which is Diplomacy and spy craft I give you the Nondi-class Executive Transport.” He said naming the small vessel as it lit up its sub-light engines and began to turn gracefully away from the two Behemoth-class vessels.
“Which is? The Jade Falcons last week invaded and captured Krievci placing them a single jump from Coventry and you give us a pleasure yacht?” Admiral Szabo Lilla asked angrily she stood off to the side of Archon Jessica Steiner and had served with her previously on other ships before taking command of the ship they were standing on.
“Yes, Admiral we do, you say they are in striking distance of Coventry?” Dr Queen asked but did not wait for an answer “I counter by saying that they were already in range. A Lithium Fusion Engine would allow them to bypass any defences that we have and strike at any world of their choosing. The Nondi will not win you a war Admiral but it could be instrumental in stopping one from starting, send this world to Sudeten, to Marik, to Luthien or any other world that could be a threat to us it will blend into the traffic over that would and allow you to speak directly to the people in charge.”
“We thank you Doctor, we are sure that this vessel will complete all missions we give it.” Archon Jessica Steiner said herself not sure what the vessel would be used for but deciding not to make a scene.
“Archon, with your permission we would also like to sell this vessel on the open market to civilans and to other nations.” Doctor Queen decided to push his luck, already there had been interest from the large companies of the Lyran Commonwealth.
“Without any weaponry you may sell the hull to Lyran citizens. The High Command will decide on whether this ship will be sold to other nations.” The Archon said making a concession to the company beyond the Nondi herself the Archon didn’t see much need for the Lyran nation to purchase more of the vessel but if Lockheed/CBM wished to produce more for the Lyran people she wouldn’t stop them.
Clan Hall, Jaguar’s Den
Twin Sons, District of Lesnovo
Free Worlds League
12th January 3114
“I am proud of what we have accomplished” Khan Petra Furey said to the leaders of the Smoke Jaguars on Twin Sons. “We have taken control over the military of the District of Lesnovo and we have done so with the full support of the people and the government of this region. We have rebuilt the dead Clan by our own standards.” She said happy with their accomplisments the new Smoke Jaguars were not the same people as before, there was no way to compare the two, some members of the Clan were survivors who had hidden in the periphery and on Twin Sons, others were former crewmen of the disgraced Snow Raven WarShip Spectre which was still hidden in the Lesnovo system, but for the most part the Clan was made up of people born and bred in the Free Worlds League who had come to them with dreams of future glory within those numbers was Petra herself the freeborn daughter of two former clansmen.
“Today we take the next step in the rebirth of this Clan, today our scientists have restarted the eugenics program and the use of Iron Wombs” she announced to her Clankin. The program would remain a secret to the peoples outwith the Smoke Jaguars but her clan was on the path to being truly reborn, just as her parents had dreamed though neither Michael or Sandra Furey would see the reborn Smoke Jaguars as both had passed away the year before. “Each member who has been completely inducted into our military will donate genetic material to this cause. We will be the Founders of this reborn Clan as members of the Exodus Fleet were founders of the original Clans.”
SLS Fletcher (Peter-class Scout), Bridge
Blair Atoll, Hell’s Horses Occupation Zone
18th January 3114
Their mission had been to act as a civilian freighter DropShip and disappear into the traffic over the important Hell’s Horses trade world of Blair Atoll conducting as much intelligence as they could while inserting a special forces team. Judd Thompson stared at the screen, which showed the rear of the SLS Fletcher and the space behind the vessel, and knew their mission had failed as it showed their mission had failed as pursuing them was flat boxy form of a Halcyon-class Cruiser of Clan Hell’s Horses. “Right boys and girls, they are onto us clear the memory banks and then make your way to your escape pods.” He commanded knowing fine that their scout ship had no chance of out running a Clan Cruiser and its support craft, and they couldn’t be boarded.
“You know the orders make your way into the civilian population find work, blend in and wait the Intelligence Corps will find you.” He said making sure that his voice was reaching all the decks he had sixty-one people onboard and wanted to make sure they all got a fair chance or escape, each of them had been given alternate Clan identities but the chances of any of them escaping were slim. As he spoke there was flashes of light from the Cruiser as its forward cannons fired exploding near the scoutship but not hitting it with that he knew that they intended to try and capture them. “You’ve done well people, but today is not our day.” He said cutting the all deck transmission “helm, put our nose in the atmosphere when they hit us, I want to make sure they knock us down and finish us then to the escape pod.” He said the helm officer looked back at him and nodded modifying their flight path then leaving his station as escape pods began to be jettisoned from further along the ship each of them entering the atmosphere immediately it would be a bumpy ride but assuming their parachutes activated correctly the crewmen would get to the ground.
As more naval autocannon fire exploded near them buffeting the Fletcher with debris as its nose dipped into the atmosphere, the five thousand-five-hundred-ton vessel was not designed for atmospheric flight and immediately its hull began to show the stresses of re-entry. “Launch bay, take your people in the shuttle and go, I won’t be making it down there” he said as one of the autocannon rounds exploded nearly on the vessel’s hull the shock wave ripping a huge chunk out of the rear of the ship the Peter-class began to waver and lose control under the stress of the impact. “GO NOW!” He commanded from the underside of the ship a Hell’s Horses built Pelican-class Small craft dropped from the rear of the ship diving straight into the atmosphere from behind it two diamond shaped Aretes Interceptors sped past the pursuing Halcyon and dived behind the small craft firing their particle cannons and lasers, there was little hope the Pelican would survive to a controlled landing. Thompson activated the emergency HPG transmitter, sending the Flecher’s distress signal, before activating his command chair’s own eject system as well as regular escape pods which held multiple persons the Peter-class had been fitted with individual escape pods for certain positions. As the system activated the Captain’s chair was wrapped in foam made from a similar material as HarJel while Thompson raised a mask to his face. “I hate these ****** things” he cursed as his face was covered moments later his entire command chair was ejected from the ship just before another naval autocannon round tore through the ship gutting the SLS Fletcher. Debris of the small ship began to fall into the atmosphere burning up as it entered the atmosphere.
---
The screens came up in the briefing room revealing a small room with almost two dozen observers who had been taking notes as they watched the broadcast. “Ladies and gentlemen, that was the last broadcast from the SLS Fletcher we believe some of the crew survived to the surface. You are the closest extraction and recovery team. You’re going to Blair Atoll which is two jumps from our present location. You will board this ship” he said showing a tiny aerodyne civilian DropShip with a thin hull and a pair of engine nacelles on the end of short wings on the holoimager “this is Freighter 42” he said “I know an imaginative title for a ship as common as the Firefly but it’s a design in common usage by the Horses as a Civilian transport as it is small and carries no weapons. There is one of these vessels on its way to our next jump-point we will board it and commandeer it from its crew before using it to insert your team onto Blair Atoll. You will be inserted onto the planet as two couples transferring between worlds for work.” He said each of them looked at each other silently realizing what that meant, each of them had seen the other naked before it was part of their line of work.
“Rules of engagement on planet?”
“Assess the Fletcher’s crash site and if necessary, ensure its destruction should there be anything left, ensure the Fletcher’s commander’s personally held information does not fall into enemy hands and extract any survivors including the commander if applicable.” He said immediately they recognized that the lives of the crew and of the commander were secondary to the intelligence.
“Sir, can we know the reason…” one of them asked recovering other members of the SLDF was important but normally downed crewmen were expected to slip into the population and await extraction.
“In your documents packs” he said immediately everyone flicked through the pages and found what he meant “is all the information you may need. “Ladies and gentlemen, that is the face of the commander of the all Intelligence Operations in the Hell’s Horses OZ Major-General Judd Thompson code name Bat-22. Why he was on that ship we don’t know but we know that the Watch know his identify. The information he holds up here” he said tapping the side of his head “is information we can’t let the Clans have understood?”
“Yes, sir” the Hunt for Bat-22 was on.
Ground battle
Wallis, District of Regulus
Free Worlds League
22nd January 3114
Jake Chowla pushed his captured OmniMech through the ruined city of Brimal against the Whispers of Blake he’d learned over the last few weeks that the Mech was named as a Deva and had been produced for the Whispers by the Word of Blake on Gibson before their destruction. As a result, he’d learned he could reconfigure the Mech as he desired and replacing damaged equipment was easy compared to his previous BattleMechs.
Darting left and right he pursued a Whispers of Blake Buccaneer BattleMech as he helped hunt down the last renegade Blakist. It had been a long battle but finally the Chaos Irregulars and the local milita forces were getting their revenge on the renegade Clansmen. “Aletha go left!” He ordered the other MechWarrior that was with him Aletha had recovered from her ordeal as a prisoner of the Whispers and was now piloting a Blade BattleMech which had been provided by the Free Worlds League Jake had been determined that the Irregulars would remain independent but his Co-Commander Aerial Peregrine-Simmson had said they needed the weapons and signed a deal with the militia. Aletha, Jake’s wife, aimed her Blade’s autocannon ahead of the Buccaneer and fired a burst of
fire into it ripping the leg off throwing the Mech into a cartwheel as it crashed across the ground away from them.
“Now that’s what I’m taking about” she said the Blade wasn’t her Mongoose, it hadn’t been in her family for generations, but it packed a punch with the rotary autocannon and lasers.
“Let’s get another one” Jake said searching for another target.
“All forces SCATTER! SCATTER! SCATTER!” Aeriel suddenly screamed over the radio but it was too late already the first orbital fire was hitting the ruined City. Unbeknownst to the Irregulars or anyone else on the planet within the last few days a Whispers of Blake special forces unit had struck Regulus killing Prince Lester Cameron-Jones and his first-born child Anita and wiping out the majority of the Elite First Cameron-Jones Guard Regiment using several thermonuclear devices. Now in orbit over the planet a WarShip carrying Lester’s fathers name Prince Titus Cameron-Jones was bombarding every remaining Whispers of Blake position.
“Aletha RUN!” Jake screamed already her Blade was running and Jake turned to follow he was perhaps a few hundred metres behind her already as the Blade ran faster than his heavier Mech. “Don’t slow down, they won’t be able to make out designs from where they are but we’re heading in the right direction not to be a target. We’re going…” he never finished the sentence from above the gunners on the RS Prince Titus Cameron-Jones were firing at anything that moved they didn’t care what direction targets were heading in only where friendly bases were and where potential enemies were the entire city of Brimal was forfeit. As Jake’s Deva got up to speed, he didn’t even see the naval autocannon rounds coming as they slammed down into the ground right in front of Aletha’s speeding Blade. The small thirty-five-ton BattleMech was initially consumed in fire and then the shock wave hit picking the BattleMech up and throwing it like a child would a rag-doll. Jake could do nothing as he watched his wife’s Mech fly through the air parts of the BattleMech separating from the main body of the Mech as it flew. “ALETHA!” Jake screamed as his own Mech was knocked to the ground by the following shock waves debris fell off nearby buildings pinning his Mech even as his sensors showed the Blade come to rest and more naval autocannon rounds impacting in the area around it more landed near Jake’s Mech but the debris protected him from most of the hits unfortunately his wife had no such protection. The Deva’s damaged but functional sensor suite registered a critical failure in the Blade’s fusion engine shielding and he knew the truth, the cold fact that a computer would tell you without compassion or thought, his wife was dead killed at the hands of the very people they were contracted to help.
Spaceport
Blair Atoll, Hell’s Horses OZ
26th January 3114
It had taken the four-person team more than a week to get to Blair Atoll and now they were making their way through customs on the world. As they moved through the area each of them noted the number of unarmoured guards in the spaceport each armed with the Horses newest personal weapon the ballistic assault rifle HAR-201.
“Security’s tight” Ned Glasberg said “the Flecher’s crash has them on edge.” He said as they saw troopers search through visitor’s baggage. The two men were in the queue like everyone else but didn’t react to what they were seeing, it wasn’t the Clan civilian castes way.
“We keep going, less we’re suspicious the better.” His partner said off to the side while they were a couple, they both knew that public signs of affection would gain the attention of the Horses guards. They both approached separate booths the two customs officials glanced at each other and then at the two men before stamping their passes. Further behind in the queue the other two in their team were waiting for their time they were under the cover as a pair of scientists. They made their way through the process just the same passing themselves off as man and wife and were quickly processed.
Outside the spaceport customs office the two men headed to the first vehicle a Praire Schooner Land Train which had been converted into a passenger transport. While the two passing as scientists were led to a Sky Eye News Helicopter which was being used by the Horses as an executive transport for their scientists. They would meet up when it was appropriate.
---
Three hours later Glasberg and his partner Wesley Blood were at a recreational park trying to pass themselves off as civilians enjoying their downtime before being given their first job by their Clan. In the field other people exercised and played games with balls it was a standard day on Blair Atoll. Above the field the Sky Eye News Helicopter they’d seen earlier flew over the field. The aircraft had two rotors on the top one above the other rotating in opposite directions while a pusher propeller at the back moving the chopper forwards.
“I didn’t expect them to arrive with that” Glasberg said watching as the craft circled the field before landing. The doors were opened as it landed and the two of them crossed the tarmac boarding the aircraft “nice to see you guys, nice ride” he said seeing Miia Lahtinen in the pilot seat and Liam Turton in the side seat. In the back of the aircraft he noticed equipment was stacked up “you guys been shopping?”
“Just stuff that was left laying around the helo was left by the transfer pilot, I think he’s done for the day, we’ll have to ditch it in the next couple of hours or security services will clock on but it’ll get us where we’re going.” Miia said cheerfully from the front as she brought the aircraft up into the air. “The cases were exactly where we expected them” she said as Glasberg began looking over the equipment.
“This is Clan stuff?” Blood said seeing a Horse Gatling Gun X99 in one of the boxes it was a large multi-barreled weapon capable of chewing through armoured targets, much more than they should need.
“Affirmative, our contact did their job.” Turton said “we’re en route to the crash site, there’s not much left from what we’ve heard.”
“And Bat-22?”
“In the wind if he survived.”
“Any other crewmen made contact?”
“Negative if any survived, they've likely done what they are supposed to do gone to ground and are awaiting extract in time, we're the ones off schedule.” Miia said “we heard a news report stating that Hell’s Horses security forces had secured the Pelican’s crash site no survivors were found.” She explaining dampening the mood significantly “no news on any of the escape pods or on Batt-22”
---
Deep in the forests Judd Thompson moved slowly through the undergrowth as the rain began to get heavier and heavier. Each step was a careful one as he knew he wasn’t completely alone the Horses had been on his trail almost since he had landed. He bent down slightly leaving a grenade attached to a wire before heading deeper into the forests remaining still watching his trap within thirty minutes a squad of seven Hell’s Horses troopers began moving through the area one of the struck the tripwire he’d left causing an explosion immediately killing four of the troopers in the confusion Thompson struck with another grenade and his KA-23 Subgun cutting down the remaining troopers in explosions and a hair of bullets. He ran down through the undergrowth firing the remaining Subgun ammo into the Hell’s Horses troops ensuring they were dead before gathering up a Gauss Sub-Machine Gun from one of the troopers and ammunition from the rest. He also grabbed several Clan Meals-Read-to-Eat (MREs) and a radio to track enemy movements and finally Assault Grenade Launcher which had been carried by the squad’s heavy trooper it only had a single magazine of ten Dual Purpose High Explosive grenades but that could make a massive difference in the scope of things. “Thanks boys” he said looking down at the dead bodies before darting off into the undergrowth he’d served in the SLDF for more than thirty years he wasn’t going to go down without a fight.
SLS Fletcher Crashsite
Blair Atoll, Hell’s Horses OZ
26th January 3114
Flying quickly towards the crashsite Blood and Glasberg mounted the gatling gun onto a bracket attached to the side door of the Sky Eye giving them some firepower should they need it. “I thought we were giving this thing back?” Miia complained.
“Well it’s one of their guns, I’m sure they won’t mind too much” Blood suggested.
“This is a civie aircraft they don’t want to give them guns.”
“It’ll be a nice surprise for them.” Blood said but Miia didn’t look happy as the aircraft continued to fly forwards towards their target.
The Sky Eye helicopter was soon over the crash site of the SLS Fletcher, there was very little left of the small ship, surprisingly there were few Hell’s Horses at the site either. “Not much chance of much surviving onboard that.” Miia said glancing back “what do you think?”
“Fly over the target we’re dropping three boxes on it.” Glasberg said as the aircraft continued to move forwards. As it flew over the crash site Glasberg and Blood threw three boxes of high explosive out the side of the ship. The packages fell slowly from the aircraft onto the wreckage exploding on contact covering the ground in high explosive fire destroying any data that still remained there. “Keep flying broadcast on the emergency channel, see if any of our people are listening.” He suggested Miia nodded
---
Several kilometres from where the Fletcher had crashed Judd Thompson saw the explosion but didn’t know the reason for it. He’d intentionally avoided what was left of his ship, there was nothing there for him. As he moved through the undergrowth, he saw a path had been cut through the woods creating a road for the Horses to keep their people supplied part the way along the path was a small single story checkpoint station. Slipping his Gauss SMG to his back he instead drew out the grenade launcher aiming it at the checkpoint he saw a single Hell’s Horses trooper coming out and thought about taking the shot. Thompson had a second thought for a moment thinking about the flare he’d seen from the exploding Fletcher and decided that the checkpoint, while a smaller explosion would likely cause too much trouble for him. Instead he turned to the right and continued into the forest.
For what felt like hours Thompson moved through the undergrowth watching his back as he moved but no-one was following him darkness quickly began to envelop him as the rain returned once again. Suddenly out of what seemed to be nowhere a structure appeared in the darkness there was no lighting on but it appeared sound. Moving around the building he couldn’t see any sign that the place had been occupied anytime recently. He moved quickly up to the building putting his boot onto the door kicking open the door he wasn’t a young man anymore but he still knew how to force open a door. Entering through the door, he quickly scanned the room inside and found a comfortable hunting cabin which obviously hadn’t been lived in some time. Turning he pushed the door closed securing it as best he could with its broken lock he’d stay tonight and move on in the morning once his clothing was dry. Tonight, he’d try to get the rest he’d need to continue to avoid Hell’s Horses patrols.
---
As night had closed in the crew of the Sky Eye had turned to their night vision goggles as their aircraft battled through the worsening weather. “I’ve got something, SLDF troops engaging Horse units to the east three kilometres distant.” Turton said glancing up from the radio set
“Take us over their Miia low and fast” Glasberg said glancing at Blood “you fitted it get on the gun.” He said as the aircraft began to bank tightly to the right speeding up as it turned and dived. “Miia bring us over their position, we’ll see what we can see on the first pass” he ordered opening the side door a gust of wing blew into the aircraft along with plenty rain water.
Leaning out the door Glasberg and Blood peered through their night vision googles and spotted the contacts as they approached. On the goggles the four SLDF crewmen were easily identifiable as their uniforms had special reflective materials woven into them for exactly this sort of mission beyond their position were at least seven Hell’s Horses contacts who were getting closer to them. “We’ve got seven enemy contacts to deal with Turton left door cover, we’ll take right, Miia I need you to get us into a decent firing position but keep us moving when I change magazines bring Liam into the fight.” He said she nodded and slowed the aircraft’s speed as Liam Turton climbed over the seat and opened the other door raising his rifle to peer out the door.
“Alright boys making the turn” she said bringing the nose of the aircraft around to the left but continuing to move the aircraft along its same path. As she did, she tipped the aircraft’s right side down slightly. Neither Glasberg or Blood needed any encouragement immediately Blood opened fire with the Gatling gun which spun rapidly throwing out hundreds of deadly bullets that ripped through the undergrowth below. Ned Glasberg was more refined with his shots aiming his rifle from the shoulder he peered through the scope taking pot shots at targets missed by Blood’s indiscriminate fire.
“Over the target Liam get ready!” Glasberg warned as he began switching magazines from the other door Liam immediately began firing down on the targets below a each of them heard bullet’s hit the underside of the aircraft.
“We’re taking damage hold on!” Miia called out she kicked in the aircraft’s engines bringing the aircraft out of the firing line turning tightly through the night’s sky she turned the nose away from targets again allowing Glasberg and Blood another strafing run this time each of them gunned down members of the chasing Hell’s Horses. “Great job”
“Take us over them again” Glasberg ordered “make them count” he ordered the three nodded and this time aimed for the fallen troopers making sure they were dead. “Miia take us down, you and Turton are taking the survivors back to civilisation and will find them a way to get home.” He said looking at Wesley Blood “grab provisions and ammo, we’re going for a hike” he said as the helicopter came down to land on the ground, they shouted at the SLDF crewmen to approach as they did Glasberg and Blood hopped out onto the ground grabbing their personal weaponry. “You two, get these people to safety, find them lives in one of the settlements where they can hunker-down and wait for extraction, then join us when you can. We’re going to find Thompson and kill whatever else gets in our way.” He said to his other team members as the crewmen arrived “the cavalry arrives! You guys are safe now!” Glasberg said to them as they climbed onboard, “you two take care of them and of yourselves.” He said as the chopper took off again climbing into the skies. “Let’s move, we need to be a few kilometres from here before that squad’s CO comes looking for them.”
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Excellent update as always, i'm not sure about the usefulness of the Nondi but she's sure as hell an interesting design for sure :)
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Thank you for keeping the Saga a live and lively, Dragoncat!
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Such evil I is, eh?
>:D
DC? :thumbsup: and thanks,
TT 8)
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Excellent update as always, i'm not sure about the usefulness of the Nondi but she's sure as hell an interesting design for sure :)
I realized I forgot to post the link. As for her usefulness her sister class the Peter appeared in the horse section and against a true WarShip no chance
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=69245.0 (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=69245.0)
Thank you for keeping the Saga a live and lively, Dragoncat!
No problem it might slow sometimes but I wont stop
Such evil I is, eh?
>:D
DC? :thumbsup: and thanks,
TT 8)
They had to go out in a blaze of glory
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New unit and tech for the AU
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=69363.new#new (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=69363.new#new)
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Finally caught up to the current times, been reading this AU since like two to three weeks ago now. This is an excellent piece of fiction. Well done. 8)
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Finally caught up to the current times, been reading this AU since like two to three weeks ago now. This is an excellent piece of fiction. Well done. 8)
Thank you, it wouldn't be anything without the contributions I've had from about a dozen helpful souls with hundreds of suggestions and contributions from them.
So marauder, James Tanaga, JA Baker, Truetanker, Vition2, Shadow Wraith, Wrangler, Red Pins, DOC_Argen, Maingunnery, CryHavok101, Blackhorse 6 and many others Thank you too
I'm glad you enjoyed Artifex more soon
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Next bit edited with a bit from James Tanaga which I missed this morning
River Crimond
Blair Atoll, Hell’s Horses OZ
1st February 3114
Judd Thompson hid in the undergrowth watching as the large Hell’s Horses controlled freighter moved down the river past his position, he had come to the river thinking that it would give him a source of water and make it easy for rescue teams to track him. All of the SLDF flight crews had been trained to seek out water as a way of getting help. It was a risk he knew it but he didn’t have much of a choice he couldn’t trust the locals to continue to help him like Jeremiah Miller had. Unfortunately, a river like the Crimond, which was a trade river, was impossible for Thompson to cross without a boat which kind of left him boxed in. Now less than three hundred metres from him a three-hundred-metre-long freighter and barge combo were moving slowly down the river and he was stuck watching them hoping none of the crew had heat vision goggles to see him. He kept his weapons close to him ready to defend himself if need be but couldn’t do much else.
As the ship passed, he saw dozens of other boats passing in both directions, perhaps coming this way had been a mistake he’d come across too much civilization. As he watched the freighter Thompson heard a click behind him it was unmistakably a weapon hammer clicking into place. “Drop your weapons and do not move, you are under arrest.”
---
Glasberg and Blood had re-joined Miia and Thurton on the Freedom 900 and were travelling down the river trying to keep a low profile with the local traffic and Hell’s Horses patrols they had been passed by several Clan VTOLs that morning and not one of the aircraft had paid them any attention but they knew that it couldn’t continue by now the Sky Eye would have been found and the Hell’s Horses would know there was a hostile team on planet.
As they passed a massive Avalonmax-class Freighter and barge they observed a lot of commotion on the riverbank as a small boat approached a ground team from the Freighter. In between them they saw a single man in cuffs. “Shit” Glasberg cursed glancing out of the Freedom 900 “Miia hold your course, keep your heads down boys we can’t do anything right now.” He ordered as the Hovercraft sped past the scene.
“Boss, if they get him on that freighter Thompson’s on his way to Horse interrogation. I can hit him from here.” Blood said checking the range as they continued down the river.
“No” Glasberg ordered “hold the course” he said “we’ll swing around in a few kilometres. And hit them tonight.”
“What if they airlift him out?”
“It’ll have to be a damned good pilot to land on that damned thing no helipad on that model of Avalonmax. Thurton, we need an exit strategy for after we lift him out, send a message to the extraction boys we’ll be coming in hot tonight or tomorrow morning they need to be ready for lift.”
“And hope the hell that Halcyon isn’t still in orbit.”
“One problem at a time.”
---
The laugh could be heard all around the camp as Star Colonel Vandermice Lassenerra received the news that an insurgent had been captured on the River Crimond and his picture was sent to him. He recognised the man immediately “and to think I deployed an entire Cluster to track you down. If I’d known it was a prize such as you, I’d had deployed an entire damned Galaxy!” Lassenarra commented “all I had to do is wait for you to stumble across a Solhama force on a freighter. He laughed again finding the whole situation amusing. His people had found a prize worthy of words in the Remembrance and a prize that may get him a posting to a world worthy of his name and abilities. He immediately called for air support to be sent to escort the freighter into port.
---
Hours later Glasberg and his team approached the Avalonmax using minimal thrust from their engine sneaking up on the huge ship. Despite its size they knew the crew complement would be only between twenty and thirty the crew weren’t a great threat it was the additional security the Hell’s Horses had brought with them that would be the issue. While the corridors of the civilian freighter would make it impossible for the Horses to use Battle Armour onboard the ship, they could still cram dozens of infantry soldiers onboard. Each of them was armed with a Horse Assault Rifle-201, or HAR-201, because they were on a Horse planet ammunition for the weapons should be plentiful. “We keep moving take down anything that we come across that isn’t Thompson.” Glasberg briefed them finally as Miia Lahtinen brought them in closer time was of the essence Wesley Blood fired grappling hooks onto the back of the ship and they quickly made their way onboard. “Miia, Wes take out the bridge sweep the corridors as you go each room.” He ordered they nodded knowing their orders. “We’re going through the ship until we find Thompson he said to Liam Thurton.” Who nodded.
What followed was ten minutes of utter carnage as the four special operations operators made their way through the freighter shooting anything that moved. Some of the crew were likely innocent of the Hell’s Horses desires but the four operators were not taking any chances Blair Atoll was in the heart of Clan territory they’d take no chances with the people they were coming across. Moving from room to room the troopers eliminated everyone in their path with heavy automatic weapons fire. Finally, they reached the room that a badly beaten Judd Thompson was being held in. “One, Three, target secured status!” Glasberg panted as Thurton released the beaten General. “Three, status.”
“We’re both injured but mobile to extraction point, bridge is disabled.” She said gasping for breath Glasberg didn’t like the sound of that but he’d see how they were when they got back together.
“You need to move your ass sir; we’re getting out of here hold on to me you step where I step.” He said Thompson nodded placing a hand on Glasberg’s shoulder “MOVING!” He called out with Thompson forming the centre the threesome moved back through the ship picking their way through the bodies as they went Thompson picked up a sidearm.
Back on the rear deck of the ship they found Miia Lahtinen and Wesley Blood waiting for them blood streamed from Miia’s left shoulder while Wesley Blood appeared to have a thigh and hand injury. Glasberg looked at him questionably “got into a knife fight with an ex-Elemental” he explained Blood himself was a big man but an “ex”-Elemental was still likely a huge prospect. “She came of worse, I’m good to go.”
“Good back to the Freedom” Glasberg said the five of them headed to the ropes keeping their weapons ready for action as suddenly there was a roar overhead and a Durga Attack Helicopter buzzed the freighter flying its length. “DOWN!” Glasberg shouted seeing the twenty-five-ton craft begin to turn. It was a fast-agile aircraft with coaxial blades above the craft a single rear stabilizing tail it was armed with a mix of pulse lasers and long-range missiles and could keep pace with most hovercraft. “Ideas, because that thing will burn us with lasers and missiles if we try take off on the hovercraft.”
“Cheap RPG” Liam Thurton said raising his HAR-201 which he’d fitted a grenade launcher to “I just need him to come close” he said dropping his backpack “you guys get ready to drop, I’ll drop them.” He said “extract when you get onto the hover, I’ll get out the slow way” he promised them “take care.” He then turned without another word and began to head along the ship as the Durga began to approach again flying down the left side of the Avalonmax its chin turret nose chin turret turned covering the ship.
“They are looking for crewmen.” Miia Lahtinen said “they’re going to know something’s not right.”
“He only needs one right moment, Com’on Liam” Blood whispered as he did Liam Thurton suddenly popped up from his point halfway along the freighter’s length and fired the grenade launcher directly at the twin top rotors on the Durga. The armour-piercing round exploded between the two rotors shattering the linkages there causing the aircraft to stutter in the air as Liam opened fire with a stream of assault rifle fire on the cockpit armour. Because of the height of the aircraft it drifted down and hit the water heavily. “Yes, well done son!” Blood shouted as behind him Miia had lowered herself onto the Hovercraft and Thompson was on his way as Blood turned back towards them several troopers appeared from the far side of the ship and opened fire on Liam Thurton with at least one shot hitting him in the shoulder the trooper turned back towards them and returned fire but another shot hit him knocking him off balance and over the side of the ship. “You…” Blood cursed stepping towards the Horse troopers.
“No! We go and we go now!” Glasberg ordered him “Liam’s off the boat I hope to hell he made it but even if he didn’t, we don’t help him by dying now. Go!” He ordered. Soon after the Freedom 900 took off from the rear of the freighter leaving it and the burning VTOL. House later they arrived at the waiting Pallas Transport Shuttle which had been acquired by another SLDF Team for extraction operation. The two-hundred-ton twin winged long bodied Pallas was built by the Hell’s Horses and made for the perfect extraction aircraft able to lift into space and join regular Hell’s Horses space traffic. They were soon off the surface of Blair Atoll and were heading into space, they’d soon receive a signal from a friendly JumpShip or WarShip which would extract the team from the system, they weren’t out of the woods yet but they’d done their job.
Onboard the Pallas Thompson approached Glasberg, Miia and Wesley Blood were both receiving medical attention, Liam Thurton was god knows where but Jed Glasberg had gotten out with barely a scratch. “Thank you for the rescue…”
“Glasberg sir” he said identifying himself his rank didn’t matter.
“I’m sorry for your man, he was very brave.”
“It’s the job sir” Glasberg said “your crew knew that too, sir, we picked up a few of them they’ll work their way out of Clan space the same way Liam will.” He said confidently
“I hope they all make it.”
“It’s the job, sir” Glasberg repeated rolling over into his bunk he’d rescued the General it didn’t mean he needed to like him his team had suffered on this op, they’d return to friendly space and get ready for the next op. “It’s the job” Glasberg mused as he drifted off to sleep.
Clan Council Chambers
Phillip Drummond City, New Barcella
Core Territroy, Nova Cat’s Den
8th February 3114
Khan Canin Rosse had been summonded to the Clan Council of Clan Nova Cat on New Barcella following questions regarding his leadership the seventy-six-year-old leader now stood in front of his Clankin while the challenger Star Admiral Alexandria Leroux held the floor. “Under Khan Rosse’s leadership we have flourished here.” She said flattering him “but we cannot continue to remain in isolation forever. And now to hear that one of our JumpShips carrying the Forty-eighth Nova Cat Spirit Cluster was lost trying to enter the Pirate Star Cluster, these people are below us a nuisance why are we wasting resources chasing them down is it because Khan Rosse is afraid to take our fight to the true enemy the Federated Suns?” She challenged him turning towards him on his final word she was young, smart and beautiful tall athletic with long blonde hair Khan Rosse could admit it after these years without his wife that he found her beautiful but she was also a Trueborn warrior and had gone on the record several times that she hated what Khan Rosse had done with his Spheroid born wife. She was of a new generation of Clan Nova Cat warriors and they agitated under Clan Nova Cat’s self-imposed isolation.
“They have been a constant nuisance to our territory, they need to be dealt with. The Federated Suns, Taurian Concordat and Gaenir Collective have avoided all of our territorial systems. The pirates continuously raid.”
“And our units deal with them, or our WarShips blow them from space, I have killed many.” She said “Khan Rosse, you have led the Nova Cat Clan for decades you have done what many others could not done and secured our Clan for decades to come. But we cannot remain here and watch while the rest of the Inner Sphere continues without us. Other Clans close in on the goal of being ilClan, we are as powerful, we should be there too.”
“The Wolves descended on the Inner Sphere using a trick to close on Terra, the Bears and Falcons both benefit from their initial invasion corridors positions. Unlike those Clans we do not have a shattered nation between us and Terra we have one of the most powerful nations between us.”
“We should not be afraid of the Federated Suns, we showed the Taurians what we are capable of even facing their nuclear fire.” Leroux taunted which caused Rosse to laugh.
“The Taurian Concordat were nothing compared to the Federated Suns, the size of their nation alone should be respected. I am not afraid of the Federated Suns, if this is the will of this Clan Council I will answer that call personally.” He said looking around for another challenger before finishing on his challenger who looked surprised but covered it with a smirk, she no doubt hoped it would end with his death. “Alexandria Leroux you will join the next Trial of Possession against the Federated Suns at the world of Minette, capital of the Minnete Combat Region. Intelligence suggests that it is currently defended by two Davion-class Destroyers which will give you ample opponents to show your skill.” Khan Rosse said Minnete had been a target he planned to attack for weeks but the timing had not been correct now Leroux had pushed the right button and the Nova Cats were heading to conflict.
---
An hour later there was a knock at Khan Canin Rosse’s office which was in the wing adjacent to the Clan Council Hall as he called for them to enter Star Admiral Alexandria Leroux entered “Star Admiral welcome.” He said rising from his chair.
“You gave in too easily today” she said marching into the room. “And volunteering to command this mission is risky.”
“Aff, perhaps but they wanted a positive reaction not an explanation, I was not going to disappoint them.” He said stepping around his desk approaching her “our Clan needed your argument and you carried it well better than many who have tried. As for risk I’ve done it all before.”
“You would know you have been around long enough”
“Ooow, easy on the old jokes Nova Cats respect age remember” he chuckled pushing her lightly.
“Only push me is you mean it Khan” she warned him smirking as he stepped closer to her grasping her uniform as he did she didn’t stop him so he knew what would follow, he spun her lightly directing her towards the bedroom using his larger stronger frame releasing her with a more forceful push which brought an even larger smile from the Star Admiral as she opened her jacket zip. It was only coupling he knew this; she hated the idea of a proper relationship and he knew she opposed him on many polices but she also respected where he had taken the Clan and was a very able commander, she was a threat to his leadership, as the old saying went keep friends close and enemies closer.
Air battle
Vestallas, Kittery Prefecture
Star League Protectorate
13th February 3114
Throwing his damaged Huscarl OmniFighter to the left and to the right Commander Jeremy Kincaid-Cameron could not shake the Menquin Fighter that was now behind him. His squadron had been outgunned over Vestallas which had seen the WarShip SLS Immortal Spirit had been destroyed by the CCSS Wu Zetian, a Mandarinn-class Battle-cruiser, and now they were trying desperately to stop the Capellans reaching the ground but it was a losing battle. Two more plasma shots from the Menquin slammed into the rear of his Huscarl causing more trouble for his fighter’s systems. “This is Kincaid, I’m going down over Saint Paul, we have six DropShips landing in the vicinity of the city.” He called out as SRMs slammed into the rear of the fighter. “Repeat Kincaid punching out over Saint Paul, Capellans landing on Vestallas.” He called out as he pulled the ejection cords which almost immediately threw his command couch clear of the aircraft unfortunately as he did more missiles from the Menquin slammed into the downed aircraft the shockwave knocking his command chair into a spiral causing unconsciousness. The chair’s automatic sensors deployed its para-foil as he closed on the ground but without Jeremy’s input the chair slammed into a group of trees causing multiple injuries to the pilot before he came to a rest on the ground.
Over the next several hours the SLDF defenders of Vestallas repelled the Capellan Confederation forces with the SLS Freedom and an assault DropShip squadron driving off the Wu Zetian and ground forces belonging to the First Kittery Regimental Brigade “Stone’s Lament” commanded by the Kittery Prefecture’s leader Protector-General Devlin Stone. Jeremy Kincaid-Cameron was found by search and rescue teams and taken to Star League Medical Facilities for treatment. Throughout his time in the academy Kincaid had wanted to see action on behalf of the SLDF and the Capellans were ensuring that happened.
RCS Rim Collection (Warrior-class battlecarrier)
Erdvynn, Circinus Federation
14th February, 3114
Star Coomodore Brittney Carrol smirked as another of the dezgra Circinus Federation dropships was destroyed under the guns of the RCS Rim Collection. That left only one other Overlord dropship for her warship to contend with. “Guns, I want the last dropship taken out yesterday,” she ordered.
The Fire Mandrill Star Commodore half-listened, nodding in reply to the Rim Collection Freeborn Warrior manning the Weapons terminal confirmed her orders. The RCS Rim Collection was the newest Rim Collection warship in the Rim Collection Touman, a battlecarrier designed to contend with enemy battleships if necessary. And so far, it was giving quite a good accounting of itself, she noticed in approval, as the last of the Circinus Federation dropships was quickly destroyed under heavy fire from Naval Autocannons and Naval Lasers onboard the RCS Rim Collection. She knew it better be, for the Rim Collection had bribed Clan Sea Fox heavily; two partially-built Cassandra’s had been the price for that Clan’s heavy assistance in getting the Viborg Fleetyards running three years ahead of schedule. The Merchant Clan took possession of both vessels the day before Operation: Valentine commenced.
She turned her head to her Clan’s leader, Khan Natasha Faraday, who leaned against the bridge bulkhead. “Khan, the last of the dezgra dropships are destroyed. Your forces are clear to deploy,” she informed her.
“Good,” the Fire Mandrill Khan replied. “Let me know when we receive word from either SaKhan Albiev,” she added as she turned to leave the bridge.
“Will do, ovKhan, was Brittney’s simple answer. Turning around she glanced down at her command terminal, somewhat lost in thought as she reviewed the plan.
This entire operation against the Circinus Federation was designed to hit the former Erdvynn Province systems still held by the Circinus Federation with overwhelming power. While the RCS Rim Collection took Erdvynn with four clusters worth of warriors under Khan Faraday’s command, saKhan Stephanie Albiev led the RCS Firestorm and RCS Ash Storm and four more clusters to Yidtall; Galaxy Marshal Monica Able meanwhile had led the RCS Firebrand and RCS Hellstorm to Calvados alongside five more clusters.
Already, they had cleared the dezgra from both Erdvynn and Calvados orbits and now had begun landing in force on both worlds. If everything went according to plan, they and Yidtall would soon fall.
She knew, however, that was only part of the plan. To hit the three worlds like this, the Rim Collection had pulled nearly all their available warships. Should the CF Erinyes decided to take advantage, the forces the Rim Collection had only limited options to respond with.
Yet one of those options caused her to smirk.This entire operation was designed to draw out the dezgra CF Erinyes. If it did, the CF Erinyes would no longer be a factor in the war to come. If it didnt, the Rim Collection would still have their beachhead needed. Her thoughts returned back to her duties, though her smirk remained.
Two hours later, it was confirmed. The Rim Collection had achieved aerospace superiority across all three systems, but the Circinus Federation and their dezgra mercenary allies had pulled back into defensive positions, forestalling hopes for a quick victory by the Rim Collection.
Forty-first Star League Games
Star League Stadium, Solaris
Independent Territory
22nd February 3114
During the annual Star League Games Championship on Solaris VII Solaris Games pilot Heather “Sureshot” Mills of the Galahad Stables is victorious beating all others in her Carronade BattleMech in front of over fourteen thousand spectators. The seventy-ton BattleMech built by StarCorps Industries was unstoppable with the pilot defeating all others with disabling shots from its Silver Bullet Gauss Rifle and kill shots delivered by its regular gauss rifle and laser.
At the same time as Heather Mills victory Michael Raymond of the Raymond’s Hussars registers his unit at the MRBC Hiring Hall on Galatea accepting a job for his reinforced battalion to support a high risk against Clan Wolf in support of the SLDF.
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Excellent updates! The rescue mission for the SLDF operative was superbly written and so was the aerospace battle, hell all of it was great! :)
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Next bit with a significant bit from James Tanaga in the Rim Collection and Lyran Commonwealth and an introduction of a character from Wrangler's Thunder Road
Lower deck, Niops shipyards
Niops IV, Niops
District of Lesnovo, Free Worlds League
1st March 3114
Deep inside the facility that Niops claimed was a shipyard the damage control team led by Abdullah Ababneh rushed as quickly as they could in their magnetic boots would carry them. The District of Lesnovo’s newest vessel was preparing to launch and the command centre had discovered a serious issue in one of the de-docking process that the damage control team needed to repair. As he made his way through the ex-Showden Mining Station Abdullah already knew what the issue would be something related to the fact that Niops had repurposed a pair of Showden-class Mining Stations and latched them together to create their “shipyard” Abdullah had come across dozens of these issues since he’d arrived from Astrokazsy looking for work and a better life for his family. “Move quickly people we need to sort this issue.” He said trying to motivate them.
“They should delay the damned launch!” One of the workers called back “an exploration ship isn’t exactly going to save our worlds from trouble.”
“It’s not a call we can make, we must trust our leaders know what they are doing.” Abdullah replied trying to believe the words himself as they entered the are where control suggested there was a fault. “Spread out, find the source of the issue!” He commanded and the five-man team immediately got to work. “Command, this is DC-4, we are in position and assessing the situation.”
“We need answers DC-4 make them quick and accurate.”
“Affirmative” Abdullah confirmed cutting the link “we would do no less.” He said to himself beginning to work on his section looking for the fault. Unfortunately, he and the other workers quickly established what was wrong there was a cascade fault in the power management of this section which was slowly building towards an overload.
“Control, this is DC-4, we have established the origin of the fault. Generator Six is building towards a cascade failure which will obliterate this section of the station. We cannot stop it.”
“DC-4, we need options other than watching a section of the station explode, you’re onsite work the problem.”
“We are” he said “options people we need them any ideas.”
“We get the frak out of here!” One of them suggested
“Won’t make a difference, the power in this section will spark throughout the corridor we just came down we’ll be fried.”
“Shut all the bulkhead doors” another suggested “seal us in, vent the atmosphere and start a vent of all the local reactors.”
“Ezra are you nuts that’ll flood this section with hard radiation, we’ll be turned to jelly by the heat!”
“But the station will be saved from a serious explosion which could take the Spirit of Northumberland with us.” Ezra suggested “we will die if we try to run, we may as well make things count.”
“Agreed” Abdullah said all of you seal your pressure suits and get into the airlock, it’s shielding will protect us from much of the radiation.” He said and opened a communication with the control room as his team headed into the airlock. Being in there was still probably a death’s sentence but it might give them another option. “Control, this is DC-4, you need to shut all bulkhead doors and seal this section from the other station. I would suggest also evacuation the sections directly adjacent as well before emergency shutting down and venting all local reactors into this section and the space away from the Spirit. My team will be EVA from the station within the next thirty-seconds” he said flicking a control locking them inside the airlock much to the horror of the other five men “they will need a pick up as soon as possible. I am remaining onsite to shutdown additional power relays to stop further damage.” He said cutting the link hearing his team inside the airlock shouting angrily at him for his sacrifice. “DC-4 assume explosive decompression protocol position now it’s your only hope!” He snapped “you have ten seconds, stay apart once you are away from the station and make sure your emergency locators are on transmit.” He said the team didn’t move but continued to complain “do it now!” He commanded external door opening in ten seconds” he said as the team began to move into crouched positions facing the doors. Elsewhere the station began to shut down sections of power and vent the reactors nearby. “Good luck” he said flicking the control which released all the air and his team into space, it was their best chance to get as far from the radiation as possible, their suits would protect them from the hazards of space for a short period of time. Abdullah then walked across the room and began to shut down the power circuits that would lead to the surface of the station stopping them from overloading would stop any additional hull breaches. His suit’s radiation metre began to register greater radiation levels bleeping louder and louder Abdullah tuned it out by saying a prayer as he did his final duty of the shipyard in trying to save as much as he could before hot radioactive plasma flooded the compartment consuming him.
Due to Abdullah Ababneh’s actions the station only suffered a single further hull breach and no-one was hurt by it. The reactors returned to save mode after expelling their excess plasma and dampening their power output. While Abdullah Abebneh had died protecting the station Niops newest Vengeance Pocket WarShip was able to collect up his team with minimal injuries taken to them. For his sacrifice Abdullah Ababneh’s name was given to the Vengeance which had recovered his team and would be assigned to the nation’s newest vessel the Endevour-class Spirit of Northumberland which had been captured from the Marian Hegemony and refurbished over Niops.
Erinyes (Modified Newgrange-class)
Viborg Asteroid Field
Viborg, Rim Collection
3rd March, 3114
Calvin McIntyre smirked, watching in satisfaction as the CF Erinyes continued its slow crawl deeper into the system, intent on destroying the heretical Rim Collection sole shipyards. Drone fighters and DropShips crewed by righteous believers of the Word of Blake and their noble Circinian allies escorted the behemoth WarShip like a swarm of bees protecting their sacred queen.
And like the swarm, the drone fighters and DropShips would soon enter the battle against the heretics and non-believers of the Rim Collection, he knew, Against the Word of Blake battleship and its escorts, the heretics could only defend their oh so vital shipyard with a mere transport and a small construction ship and what fighters and DropShips the system held.
“Something’s not right,” she heard his beloved murmur. He allowed his lone remaining eye to dart to her. She stood next to the acolyte manning the tactical station, annoyingly tapping the side loudly.
“What’s not right,” he asked, his eyes returning to his screen.
“The system’s defenses,” she replied, no, snarked, backed at him. He approved of her fiery spirit, though was careful not to show it in front of the others. She was not a righteous believer as he and the others were on the bridge, though her continued belief and loyalty to him was just as strong as their zealotry, he knew.
“They seem to be concentrated around the lone transport,” he supplied. “Though I wonder where they hid their construction ship,” he thought out loud. His eyes traced a Behemoth DropShip leaving the enemy transport and fleeing to the enormous station that served as the shipyard.
“It’s not that. It’s the size of their forces.”
“Meager,” Mcintyre judged a second later. “All their forces are caught up in battles of fire and ash, too eager to free their brethren heretics,” he dismissed her concerns as the CF Erinyes and its swarm of escorts skirted the edge of the system’s asteroid belt. “They are too far to be part of this battle. Even if they left their battles immediately, they would be too little too late. And soon all in this system shall burn, as all heretics deserve.”
His concerned beloved’s answer was cut off before it began from the acolyte beside her. “The Heretic’s transport and its escort just entered into range. Soon victory and thereafter, fire and ash!”
“Fire and Ash!” he heard approvingly from the other members of the bridge crew as the CF Erinyes entered the fray. Ahead of the noble WarShip, the heretic WarShip and its meager escort lay, a final wall between the Erinyes and its target.
Moments later, his eyes squinted in annoyance as the bridge was slightly rocked by the first few volleys exchanged. The heretical WarShip’s weapon systems were surprisingly decent, he judged in disgust. He was soon proven correct.
“Moderate damage to our port dorsal batteries. Slight damage to that side’s maneuvering thrusters. Armor is holding, but getting red-lines across multiple segments,” the female acolyte manning Damage Control succinctly reported. “Recommend we turn to port so as to shield that side.”
He shook his head, silently cursing, as the acolyte manning the Pilot station immediately changed their course. The CF Erinyes, the finest WarShip remaining to the believers in their righteous crusade, unfortunately still had battle damage they could not repair and the Heretics had found the Achilles Heel of the Erinyes.
Another minute passed as the mighty WarShip presented its starboard side to the enemy heretics’ vessel, all the while. Just as the Erinyes began its next volley, his eyes widened in disbelief at his screen. He heard his lover a half second later.
“Radiation burst directly behind us! Another ship! Behind us!”
“Ship’s IFF reads the RCS Warrior! Battlenet confirms it matches same class that hit Erdvynn!” the acolyte beside her yelled out a moment later as Calvan paled in disbelief. Seconds later, the Erinyes began taking fire from recent arrival.
“Wepaons, fire the asteroid!” Calvan urgently yelled. “Helm, turn out about as soon as it leaves the mass driver!”
As he listened to his bridge crew reply back, he could not help but look back at his screen in dread. The heretical WarShip he judged as at least comparable to the Erinyes in terms of weapons as multiple damage reports immediately came across his screen.
“New contacts! From the belt!” his lover yelled. “Damnit! they ‘re heading for our JumpShips!”
“Comms, have our JumpShips jump out of system and into Steiner space. I doubt the Collection and their pet monkeys are stupid enough to jump across the border. And if they are, then all is well even if we die here!” ye yelled just before the bridge was rocked hard.
“A dozen or so assault fighters just broke through our fighter screen,” he heard his beloved’s voice report. “Having secondary gunners concentrate on the fighters-”
He saw a bright explosion and then nothing.
Mechbay, The Fort
Ecol City, Thorin
Thorin EDZ, Star League Protectorate
4th March 3114
Morgan was clambering over his Shirke OmniMech which was in the SLDF Mechbay on Thorin. The Mech was still painted in its Ghost Bear camoflague and while he had been allowed to take it out several times on exercises with local forces, he still hadn’t been given any sort of assignment. On the ground below Marika Danko stood watching and waiting for him. Since his return to Thorin and his release from the Rasalhague Dominion she had been assigned to him as his debriefing from the Star League Intelligence Command they’d slowly but surely rekindled their previous relations. Suddenly there was commotion on the ground of the Mechbay Morgan manipulated the maintenance pully’s and he shot down quickly towards the ground grabbing a tech who was near Marika. “What is going on tech?” He demanded formally sometimes he still forgot his manners.
“MechWarrior there’s been an explosion near Fell’s Fort, a disused mine imploded somehow took a bunch of buildings down with it. There was a school group in the area, they are all missing!” The tech said rapidly “the Guard’s all over the damned place on exercise.” He explained
“Then I need you to get my Mech equipped to assist” he ordered the Tech who looked surprised “I can get there before any of the guard get back, if there are any cadets still in the Fort get them in the training Mechs they can come with me, we’ll use the Mechs to dig for the school group.” He suggested “do it now Tech.” He said the man nodded and ran off.
“You have no authority to make that order Morgan, be careful” Marika warned him.
“I do not care, if I can help, I will help.”
“Good luck, I’m going to try and help muster more help, be careful” she repeated stepping up beside him kissing him passionately before rushing off. Morgan stood there for a moment gobsmacked since she’d shyed away from kissing him before despite their feelings for each other.
Within the hour Morgan was in his BattleMech with a pair of Chameleons and at the disused mine between the three of them they began digging through the rocks supporting the ground teams that were already working on the area trying to clear debris. For eight hours Morgan remained on station assisting the teams until more of the guard arrived. Due to his actions and the others in the area twenty-eight school children and their teachers were rescued from the mine with minor injuries.
Following the rescue mission Morgan gains greater respect from the local SLDF forces and he chooses now rather than later to propose to Marika Danko. Instead of waiting Marika insists they marry now before he’s taken from her again so in the presence of the Thorin Guard members and his mother Duchess Katya Christifori. Morgan Christifori and Marika Danko are married by Colonel Miguel Ángel Silvestre, the commander of the First Thorin Guard.
First Kathil Uhlans RCT Basecamp
Cassandra Station, Bruin
Irian, Free Worlds League
13th March 3114
The basecamp of the First Kathil Uhlans RCT was a hive of activity as Colonel Celeste Lussier exited the executive transport aircraft. The unit’s equipment seemed to be a hodgepodge of Federated Suns, Free Worlds League, Capellan and Clan Wolf equipment unlike any other Federated Suns unit she had seen. She was met by a young male Leftenant dressed in a duty uniform who escorted her across the assembly yard and into the main command building a battered structure which had seen some fighting but looked structurally sound. Entering the building she was led to a back map room where Marshal Richard Steiner stood with three other Colonels all dressed in duty uniforms, she immediately saluted which was returned by the other officers.
“Welcome to Irian, Colonel” Steiner said greeting him. “We have assisted the SLDF repulsing another Wolf attack this morning the First Wolf Regulars Cluster. We probably damaged them enough that they won’t have enough to remain as a unit.” He said proudly
“Well done Marshal, I have been dispatched by Marshal of Armies Fredrick Davion…”
“Very good, your forces can be integrated into our forces here, they will be very welcome…” Steiner began he knew she also had the FSS Emma Davion, an Avalon II-class Cruiser, at the Nadir point as well which would help secure Irian.
“Sir, sorry to interrupt you.” Celeste said interrupting him the Marshal smirked and nodded for her to continue. “I have arrived with an empty WarShip and some JumpShips. My orders are to recall you back to the Federated Suns, your transport is waiting you’ll be welcomed home as the heroes you are.”
“Excuse me” one of the Colonels said his name tag read Wiig “we’ve lost a lot of people here, they are the heroes who sacrificed their lives for those who can’t fight for themselves.”
“The Marshal of Armies wishes to see the Kathil Uhlans returned to the Federated Suns and stood down for rest and refurbishment.”
“That’s a mistake, we are an integral part of the defence of this world with the SLDF.” Wiig responded “the SLDF and FWL got us to this point, we owe them…”
“The Marshal of Armies does not agree” Celeste responded “Marshal Steiner, the Uhlans have been out of command for a long time. It is time that the Kathil Uhlans to return home.”
“I’m struggling to agree with him” Steiner responded “Colonel, our people are going to have to discuss this.”
“Sir, with respect they are yours to command.”
“Affirmative they are but we’ve had to take unit orphans from SLDF, mercenary and Free World League units into our TO&E.” He explained his name tag read Klimek but he carried a few other markings she didn’t recognize at first before thinking about what he’d said one of his unit patches was a Free Worlds League one!
“This is a Federated Suns line unit… they are expected!”
“COLONEL Lussier” Steiner said emphasizing her rank “the Kathil Uhlans are currently on station and they are under MY command. Now I’m telling you that the Uhlans need to discuss their position on these orders. You’ll be assigned guest quarters we’ll recall you when we’re ready. Dismissed” he said and Celeste Lussier was escorted out of the room.
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Nearly three hours later Colonel Celeste Lussier was escorted back to the map room to meet with Marshal Richard Steiner who now was on his own and dressed in his formal dress uniform. As she entered, she immediately saluted the man who returned it immediately. “Colonel, at ease” he said she stood down “Colonel Lussier, please accept this declaration from the members of the First Kathil Uhlans who originated in the Federated Suns for the Marshal of Armies and the First Prince.” Steiner said handing her a written declaration which had dozens, no hundreds of signatures on it. “This is a declaration that as of this date we are resigning our commissions with the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns.” He explained Lussier’s face must have told the story “our unit has had a mix of nationalities in it since we served with Task Force Serpent.” Steiner said “now we’ve all been away from the Federated Suns for almost two years we’ve been serving with people from several different backgrounds now we’re the Kathil Uhlans, our people are loyal to their unit and the unit have decided once and for all to align our futures with the Star League Defence Force.”
“You cannot betray your oaths and steal equipment.”
“We served the AFFS loyally for years Colonel, now we’ve had to survive on our own and we’ve taken others in.” He explained “we’re moving onto the next stage of our careers and we won’t be leaving the people hear in the lurch.”
“You could be cut off from your families, refused entry into the Federated Suns, branded tra…”
“I’m going to cut you off right there COLONEL.” Steiner said angrily “in that document it states that the people of this unit are ready to accept not being able to return to the Federated Suns. We’ve made this decision in full knowledge of that fact but do not dare go further than that. The men and women of this unit were exiled following orders to follow a Federated Suns combat mission, we did our damned jobs now we’re dealing with the consequences.” He said feeling himself he was beginning to rant and tried to calm down “we’ve been accepted as commissioned and non-commissioned officers of the SLDF. If the Marshal of Armies has a problem with it take it up with Terra, your dismissed do not let me delay you in your return to the Emma Davion.”
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Trial of Possession
Sherwood, Nova Cat’s Den
20th March 3114
While Clan Nova Cat’s 449th Assault Cluster declares a Trial of Possession over the Federated Suns world of Minette Tyler’s Terrors led by Earl Jonas Tyler land on Sherwood, their homeworld, for the first time in thirteen years. There they face off against the Nova Cat’s 451st Pouncer Cluster and while they fight in accordance with Clan dueling rules of Zellbrigen they are soundly defeated and forced off world. The attack is seen as a further afront to the Nova Cat’s territory by their neighbours and a greater challenge to Khan Canin Rosse’s rule. With the Nova Cat’s returning from Minette in defeat further calls for a challenge against Rosse continue to boil beneath the surface.
District of Regulus Hiring Hall
Bowang City, District of Bowang
Free Worlds League
22nd March 3114
The door to the hiring hall wooden slammed into the wood paneled wall taking the door off its hinge as Colonel Jocoam Chowla charged into the Hiring Hall for the District of Regulus on Bowang. He marched up to the negotiators desk and threw down a set name tags in front of a middle-aged man dressed in a business suit. “You want to explain to me what the hell happened on Wallis!” He demanded the man looked back at him calmly and then down at the name tag they read Aletha Chowla “your guns killed the people you hired to defend you!” Chowla continued angrily leaning over the desk grabbing the man and dragging him up off his seat “you killed my wife, you *******!” He bellowed his anger beyond its boiling point.
The District of Regulus had agreed to meet with representatives of the unit but the negotiator had been expecting the unit’s other co-commander Ariel Peregrine-Simpson not this muscled giant who could probably rival a small elemental. He stammered for a moment but Chowla wasn’t finished dragging him over his desk he threw the man to the ground. “I want ****** answers not excuses!” Jake Chowla cursed taking a stomp towards him.
“Stop right there!” a young woman dressed in a mercenary coat said from the door her hand was on her sidearm, which was still holstered, as were the two guards behind her.
“You know what the **** these pieces of crap did to my unit on Wallis!” He said stepping towards the man who shuffled across the floor away from him the guards reached for their weapons but the woman motioned to them to stop. He studied her for a moment she was in her early-to-mid thirties had long dyed red hair, someone who’d obviously been a fan of the old Natasha Kerensky stories.
“I heard Colonel” she said, he guessed she’d recognized his unit patch “the sold you up the river, but this isn’t the way trust me.”
“It might not be” he said grasping one of the office chairs in his hands “but I promise you he said looking down at the negotiator, I’ll get mine one way or the other and I’ll start with your sorry hide” he said swinging the chair up off the ground and across the room into the wall in one fluid motion. The guards drew their weapons but the female mercenary didn’t.
“We’re done here” she said to them “Colonel, I’ll escort you outside, calmer heads can come together tomorrow.” She said flicking a lock of red hair over her shoulder motioning towards the door. Jake took a step towards the negotiator again but then stepped over his still cowering form “until next time.” He threatened
Outside a light rain had started as Jake and the mystery merc stepped outside. “I’m sorry for your loss Colonel, as a mercenary myself if I lost family as you have to your own employer, I’d be angry too. Lt Colonel Naomi Wrangler of the Thunder Road” she said extended her hand as they stepped down the first set of stone steps.
“Jocoam Chowla” he said formally introducing himself his touch was remarkably light for such a size and following the anger he’d shown. “Thank you, they owe us. I’ll get what I’m owed either here or I’ll go to Regulus and take it from there.”
“You’ll get what’s owed to you Colonel, I know the MRBC has already looked into the case and is looking for a response from the District of Regulus. They cannot afford to be taken off the hiring lists, you’ll get compensation for this, but I know whatever they give you will not help make up for your loss.”
“Nothing ever will” he said stomping off down the remaining steps and into the rain Naomi Wrangler stood on the steps watching for a moment before retreating inside.
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The following day Colonel Ariel Peregrine-Simpson and a couple of the other Chaos Irregulars attend the Hiring Hall they bypass the District of Regulus hiring hall going straight to the MRBC’s central hall. There their case is heard and evidence the Irregulars claimed from Wallis is taken into account before a ruling is made. The MRBC rule that Regulus broke the contract with the Chaos Irregulars by bringing down orbital bombardment on their position with adequate warning. They rule that Regulus owes the Chaos Irregulars equipment equal or superior to what the Irregulars lost, payment for the rest of their contract and compensation to the families who lost loved ones. The District of Regulus agrees to make payments to the Chaos Irregulars.
A few days later the District of Bowang offer the Chaos Irregulars a piece of land on the planet of Molokai where they can claim their compensation from the District of Regulus, rest their troops that survived Wallis and train new troops in exchange for them agreeing to help defend Molokai should it be attacked. Colonel Ariel Peregrine-Simpson agrees on behalf of the unit, once on Molokai Jocoam Chowla takes some personnel time leaving Chaos Irregulars base camp in his captured Deva OmniMech heading into the Molokai wilderness to grieve.
RCS Warrior (Warrior-class battlecarrier)
Viborg Fleetyards
Viborg, Rim Collection
26th March, 3114
Loremaster Jordan Trustcott of Clan Fire Mandrill watched the holovideo in distaste. Three weeks ago, the dezgra Word of Blake and their lapdogs in the Circinus Federation had attacked the vital Viborg Fleetyards. They had sprung the Rim Collection’s trap and the Rim Collection nearly destroyed the CF Erinyes before it fled from battle.
It was a costly victory, he knew. The RCS Cassandra had taken heavy damage in holding the heavier WarShip at bay until the right moment for the RCS Warrior to jump in. Worse, the drone fighters the dezgra dogs had brought with them had been committed to an all-out kamikaze attack against the already damaged WarShip in the dezgra WarShip’s successful escape. The battered support cruiser was now just beginning repairs from the RCS Eye of Providence. It was estimated the WarShip would be back in action by the beginning of next year.
For three weeks the Rim Collection had detailed entire stars of Hunter-class JumpShips to find the dezgra vessel. And for three weeks, nothing was found of the missing vessel. That was until today.
The missing CF Erinyes had been found in the depleted system of Tatopani. Immediately the RCS Collection had been ordered to jump into the system and the other WarShips on the border with the Circinus Federation were ready to deploy. Unfortunately, before the RCS Rim Collection could engage the severely damaged dezgra WarShip, it had left the system.
But the holovideo was not of CF Erinyes’ escape from the wrath of the Rim Collection. It was instead focused on Ender’s Deep, a populated oceanic world in the Ender’s Cluster. Four days after the battle here at Viborg, the significantly important agricultural world had reported a pirate force entering the system with the IFF matching one of the Circinus Federation JumpShips that had fled the battle at Viborg.
Eight days later, an emergency HPG message had been broadcasted out loud and clear from the world, requesting immediate humanitarian aid. While the local militia had been able to neutralize the dezgra forces, it was not before they had set the planet’s primary fusion power plant into meltdown. Already, large amounts of radiation had begun to enter the important oceans and atmosphere that fed the huge schools of fish and underwater forests of kelp and seaweed that fed much of the remaining worlds of the Ender’s Cluster and supplied the cluster with medicinal herbs from the world’s aquafarms. Without immediate aid, the world would die and a famine would be unleashed across the remaining worlds of the Ender’s Cluster.
And that was the trick. Due to how the ten-star systems in the Ender’s Cluster aligned together, while JumpShips could jump freely between the ten systems often enough to keep trade and transport alive within the cluster, jumping into and from Ender’s Cluster was altogether a different story. The only time JumpShips could enter or leave the cluster was every eighty-two days for five-day windows and that window had sadly already passed. Very small windows of normally mere seconds and much more rarely a few minutes, enough for only a singular JumpShip to make the journey, but very dangerous, for whatever JumpShip that did not time its jump perfectly would be destroyed by the HPG bubble being affected by the cluster’s gravitational forces.
Already, multiple riots had been reported on all ten worlds as civilians began a mad dash to gather and hoard medicine and food. While the riots on the other worlds were forced back and law and order restored, if strained, the situation at Ender’s Deep was worsening by the hour. Order had ceased to exist within the first week, with the local nobility being lynched and as of yesterday, the HPG compound was barely holding on against rioters and rogue militia personnel. Without immediate aid, contact with the doomed world would end and complete and likely unstoppable anarchy would begin.
Now, only minutes ago, the Lyran Commonwealth had effectively announced they were abandoning the cluster!
Not abandoning, he amended a moment later. Archon Jessica Steiner was mobilizing a fleet of JumpShips at Florida. JumpShips laden with DropShips of food and medical supplies and personnel were arriving in the system. Two entire regimental combat teams were to help bring order to the cluster and the fleet to jump in as soon as the next window opened.
In two months.
In two months, the situation would be too far gone. Thousands, likely millions might die by then. That was unacceptable to him!
“Ender’s Cluster will not fall!” the tall battlemech-genotype warrior harshly whispered, causing the others on the bridge to stop what they were doing.
“Ender’s Cluster will not fall,” he reverently repeated himself as he stood up and scanned the bridge. He lacked the authority of what he was about to do. And he would answer for this, he well knew. But he would know he did the right thing.
“Comms!” he barked out. “Have all JumpShips assemble. I want all DropShips in the system to get loaded up and ready with supplies and send word out to all nearby units we will need any and all assistance they can provide, Collection and Lyran alike. And get me direct comms with Ender’s Cluster immediately! The Lyran Commonwealth may have abandoned the Ender’s Cluster but the Rim Collection will NOT! Seyla!”
“Seyla,” the others among the bridge answered his own and soon a renewed purpose was restored. Within minutes, word had spread throughout the WarShip. Within an hour, various Rim Collection units and local governments across the Rim Collection were coordinating with each other.
An hour past that, communication with Ender’s Cluster had been established when the videostream of a haggard young depressed woman who had all but lost hope finally came through. “This is Grafina Natalie Sereal of the Ender’s Cluster. I was told you wanted to help?”
“Aff,” Jordan responded. “I am readying multiple JumpShips to carry aid into the Ender’s Cluster. We should have the first ready by the end of the day. All we need are the coordinates and exact timings of all known jump points.”
The young Lyran noble raked her hand through her hair in obvious irritation. “We already thought of that approach! We might get a few JumpShips through, but many’ll be lost. It’s too dangerous.”
“Maybe for Lyran JumpShips but not those of the Rim Collection,” he steadily answered her. “Provide me those coordinates and any and all astrogation information you have for Ender’s Cluster and I vow assistance will arrive before the end of the month and regular assistance by end of next week.”
Jordan Truscott watched the conflict that spread across the young woman’s face. And hoped she chose the right decision.
She did. “I don’t have much choice. Either I burn in hell among the Estates General when I inherit my father’s seat or I burn in hell when the riots begin again.” she paused, sighing. “I’ll get everything sent asap.”
Truscott nodded approvingly. The young woman in the holostream was a born leader. Too bad she was Lyran. “Comms, relay her information as soon as we receive it to all worlds and ships within the Collection. I want everyone even remotely trained on astrogation to analyze every single particle of data she sends over. We need to plan this down to the second! We just became Ender’s Cluster’s only hope. Now move!”
Trial of Possession
Vega, District of Vega
Rasalhague Dominion
27th March 3114
The Second Legion of Vega Regiment raid the world of Vega facing off against the Eighth Bear Cuirassiers Cluster in a series of Trials of Possession. The veteran Rasalhague Dominion unit are too strong for the Second facing off and defeating each of the District of Dieron forces before allowing them to leave the plant due to the honour they had shown in battle.
Briefing Room
LCS Iron Fist (Mjolnir-class battle-cruiser), Tharkad Orbit
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
31st March 3114
Archon Jessica Steiner made notes on her datapad as she reviewed the holovideo the Rim Collection was ‘kind’ enough to give to her government nearly a month ago. Really a short holofilm of separate battle ROMs the Collection had spliced together for public consumption and propaganda, it amounted to nearly all the hard evidence the Lyrans had on the Collection’s first home-built WarShip class. She had paid the class only a courtesy briefing a month ago, but that changed with news of the RCS Warrior, the lead ship of the class, had surprised the entire Commonwealth with something thought all but impossible; jumping into the Ender’s Cluster outside of the quarterly jump window.and immediately declaring it was there for the duration of the ongoing humanitarian crisis.
Worse, the damn Collection and their pet monkeys had effectively taken the astrogation charts of the Ender’s Cluster and had figured out when to time their JumpShips to nearly a pinpoint accuracy for multiple of the jump points every day, allowing relief to reach the embattled cluster of stars. And they had done it less than a week after her announcement the Commonwealth planned to send a relief fleet as soon as the next quarterly jump window arrived.
In two months.
She clenched her teeth and her pride when the news broke publicly. To be fair, her government was warned two hours ahead of time and should the first jump be successful, the Rim Collection would immediately send their WarShip into the cluster and send their constructed jump algorithm for Ender’s Cluster to the Commonwealth. She and her staff had just enough time to write and go over a short speech complimenting the Rim Collection for their assistance during this crisis and agreeing to the RCS Warrior’s humanitarian assistance.In the same speech, she made sure the first Lyran responders, Colonel Varnay and her First Fesnyng, would jump into the star cluster using the Collection’s algorithm tomorrow morning.
While the Federated Suns-born colonel would lead the relief efforts on the ground, Jessica had given the Varnay scion a secret mission. Find out all she could of the RCS Warrior without starting a war with the Rim Collection and to investigate rather the Lyran Commonwealth could still hold onto the star cluster after this humanitarian crisis had run its course and if not, to quietly put in Lyran intelligence operatives.
While Jessica hoped for the best, she well knew she had likely lost the entire star cluster to the Rim Collection, especially with the Rim Collection risking another attack on their Viborg Fleet yards, all but saying the Ender’s Cluster was more important than that vital system. And it was a bitter pill to swallow; yet should the Lyrans acquire more information on the Rim Collection WarShip, the loss could at least be somewhat mitigated, she reflected privately to herself as she stared at the image of the RCS Warrior.
And what she saw worried her. The damned Rim Collection had once again pulled a proverbial rabbit out of their hats. Classified as a multi-role battle-carrier, Jessica read between the lines... Nominally a battleship and carrier hybrid in ancient and modern naval theories. The class was built to fight battleships. And able to bring in more DropShips and aerospace assets into battle than any WarShip the Lyran Commonwealth currently fielded. Most modern naval theorists, herself included, had thought the classification only effective with the heavier battleship hulls as shown by House Davion in their Mercury-class battleship.
Should it prove capable, it would be a massive coup and a downright impressive feat as the class was marked at 920,000 tons, noticeably below one million tons, the tonnage of what most modern naval theorists classified as the minimum for battleships and less than half the tonnage as the Mercury. Effectively a pocket battleship. The short holoreel of battle ROMs confirmed this to the Lyran Archon.
And if it did prove worthy of its classification, Jessica Steiner knew it was a slap in the face to long standing modern naval theory and tradition. Modern naval theory heavily stressed fleets should keep their multi-role WarShips limited to escort vessels like frigates and destroyers and often argued for their specialization, or to cruisers expected to be on independent patrol. These were the workhorses of any fleet. Battleships and battle-cruisers served as the heavy hitters and should be in the thick of the fighting. Conversely, carriers and transports should be protected and were primarily for support. And by tradition, nearly all respectable navies followed that train of thought.
The Warrior-class, if effective, merged all the concepts together and in a hull smaller than a battleship. A truly frightening and sobering thought. It meant the Rim Collection had the potential to effectively create a fleet that could outperform her own in the long run and could be much easier maintained and built, with production streamlined to only one class. The fact it took only an average of seventeen months to build both cemented the later fact.
The thought made her nauseated and she quickly flicked the holoterminal off and began making notes on how to mitigate the Collection’s advantage.
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Wow, what doozie the Rim Collection pulled there :thumbsup:
Also welcome back Dragon Cat and assorted assitants!!! ;)
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That's cool my character's kid appeared!
QUESTION: Warrior Class-Battlecarrier? Was it redesigned from a Battlecruiser?
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;D Yay the story got updated! I wonder what the LCAF will come up with to counter the RCS Warrior? I like how the Kathil Uhlans stayed with the SLDF! What could the AFFS do after two years being abandoned/let go behind enemy lines!
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Excellent as always! Sounds like the Erinyie's day's are numbered she's now quite badly damaged and can't do much beyond local repairs unless there's a hidden base out there.
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Into the next bit. And well it's April 1st so...
CIC, FWLS Galisteo (Unity-class Frigate)
Maxwell, District of Gibraltar
Free Worlds League
1st April 3114
“And this is the hub of operations control of the Galisteo, the CIC.” Captain Mitch Mayweather the commander of the FWLS Galisteo said as he led the Duke of Maxwell Mitchell Lee onto the command deck of the Frigate.
“CIC?” The elderly Duke asked looking around the brightly lit room which was dominated by the huge holo-tank in the middle of the room.
“Combat Information Centre or bridge as some people know it. From here we can command all aspects of the WarShip’s operations.” Mayweather explained leading them through the room as the crewmen tried to ignore them working on operations.
“I thought I saw it on the top of the vessel as we came in, so you could see your targets?” He asked oblivious to WarShip operations or layout.
“No, that is the Stellar Observation Lounge, our navigators use it to observe the space around the Galisteo and use it to double check our computers calculations. It’s one of the few places on the ship that you can look out of a window into open space, during combat it is retracted into the hull.” Mayweather explained the idea that the bridge would be on the top of the ship exposed to enemy fire was one that was solely restricted to science fiction. “For WarShip operations we use the Holotank which gives us full coverage around the vessel.”
“So, your crew use the holotank to track things outside the WarShip?”
“No, each crewman who needs to see what is going on in the space around us they can see on their own systems. We use the holotank to give us an overview of…” He began to explain but was interrupted as five new contacts appeared in the holotank.
“Sensor contact, one Wolf WarShip and four JumpShips” one of the CIC crewmen reported.
“Received and understood” Mayweather said looking up at the holotank, Duke Lee followed his gaze, “continue to monitor, maintain standard operations.” He commanded turning back to the Duke “as I was explaining Duke each crewman who needs to can monitor operations from their own stations we use the holotank to give us a command overview of the space around the WarShip.” He said but the Duke was still focused on the holotank.
“Captain, pardon my ignorance but shouldn’t we be more concerned with that WarShip and those JumpShips?”
“No, it’s a supply convoy, if the Wolves wanted trouble, they’d have jumped in closer than they have and we’d know about it already.” He explained but saw the Duke was not happy. “Allow me to explain Duke Lee, by the time I issue commands for our fighters to launch and our weapons to be turned on them the Wolves will have either jumped out or will have opened fire on us. Those Wolves jump into the system fully ready for battle, if they wanted a fight, they are ready for it.”
“Shouldn’t our CAP be ready to intercept them?”
“Flying a CAP in space only wastes fuel, creates airframe fatigue, puts pilots at risk and our sesors can track threats far more effectively than any CAP could, all of our fighters are currently onboard this vessel. At the distance the Wolves are currently at none of our CAP fighters could intercept them as they’d already have used fuel while they were out there.” The Captain explained trying not to make the duke sound stupid while he did, he was thinking about aircraft in an atmosphere in space things worked differently. Out of the corner of his eye he saw all five Wolf contacts jump out.
“So, the Wolves can simply violate our space? Perhaps your superiors need to send additional units to this system?”
“Tactical control, extrapolate how many craft would be needed to guard this system?” Mayweather requested after several minutes the crewmen spoke back.
“Captain, approximately fourteen hundred aerospace fighters, one hundred-and-eighty DropShips, eighteen space stations or WarShips.” He reported
“As you can see Duke Mayweather space is vast.” He explained hopefully not making the Duke sound stupid while he did mentally Mayweather noted it was the First of April... if the Duke wished to waste his time it was up to him.
“Perhaps, I will speak to Gibraltar after the tour of this vessel is complete.” He said as Mayweather led him from the bridge through the Galisteo few people truly understood just how big space was to stop every intrusion into a system was simply impossible.
Exploration Mission, Spirit of Northumberland
Body 42, District of Lesnovo
Free Worlds League
5th April 3114
Jumping into a system that was formerly part of the Marian Hegemony before its conquest by the Free Worlds League the Spirit of Northumberland begins its first scans of the system. The system had not been permanently inhabited by the Marian Hegemony but they had used it for some limited mining. Now it was up to the Endevour-class vessel and its crew to determine what viability the system had for longer term habitation.
Border conflict
Free Worlds League/Wolf Empire
11th April 3114
In an effort to distract Clan Wolf from other operations and isolate Tamarind from the rest of the Wolf Empire the Free Worlds League, mercenary and SLDF launch an attack centred on the systems of Labouchere, Nihau, Preston and Zortman with the Concordia Battlegroup out of Atreus in support.
With the only Wolf WarShip in the Zortman system the Concordia herself and the WarShip Baronnet concentrate on that system while the other two WarShips of the Battlegroup attack Preston and Nihau with ground forces. The FWLS WarShips encounter multiple Nagasawa-class DropShips in each of the systems as the reason for a lack of WarShips in the systems becomes apparent with Clan Wolf having purchased dozens of the Sea Fox produced assault DropShip. In the Preston system the Venturer-class Light Cruiser MS Monitor is overwhelmed by Clan Wolf DropShips and aerospace fighters which breaks up the attack forcing back the attack on the system.
In the Zortman system while the Clan Wolf vessel Tigress, a Halcyon-class Cruiser, is able to damage the Concordia and the multiple Nagasawa-class DropShips are able to take out dozens of aerospace fighters but the Thera-class Carrier’s aerospace fighters are eventually able to overwhelm and destroy the Clan Wolf WarShip clearing the way for ground forces.
On each of the worlds targeted by the Free Worlds League were elements of Clan Wolf’s Snarling Wolves Galaxy with each unit having instructions to slow any Inner Sphere intrusion by any means necessary until reinforcements arrive. On Labouchere the attack on Wolf holdings falls to pieces as the Raymond’s Hussars mercenary command take their revenge on the SLDF by failing to support the Seventh Special Operations Group which results in the Elite Team being overwhelmed by Clan Wolf Elementals. The Hussars pull off planet by overwhelming the SLDF defences at the DropShips and escaping.
On Zortman, Preston and Nihau the Free Worlds League forces face heavy resistance from the Elite Wolf troops with the Fifth Marik Guards Regiment destroyed Nihau before FWL forces are forced to retreat with the arrival of the Werewolf and additional Clan Wolf ground forces. The MS Macuahuitl, an Eagle-class Frigate, sacrifices itself in the system to allow ground forces to evacuate to their DropShips. While Clan Wolf’s garrison forces on Preston fall quickly to the Free Worlds League ground forces. For two worlds “liberated” from the Wolves two WarShips, an entire ground force regiment and an Elite SLDF team have been lost. With the SLDF officially branding Raymond’s Hussars as a rogue command.
Fleet operations, Medusans Command Group
Fenwick, Star League Protectorate
20th April 3114
In the space near Fenwick the Medusans Mercenary Command were continuing operations helping the people of Fenwick adapt to their return to the Inner Sphere. The Medusans helped screen trader vessels through the system from nearby states ensuring they were not bringing in weapons or equipment that could cause issues in the system and ensuring that they remained away from the SLDF WarShips which were being refitted and testing the system.
Today the Medusans were also taking part of the payment for their contract with the SLDF. Four sixty-ton Schrack OmniFighters flew close to the Medusan JumpShips which sat away from the Jump point currently not needed by the command. They banked to the left turning around the JumpShips and heading towards the Medusans newest vessel the seven hundred-and-eighty thousand-ton Quixote-class DropShip Tender which had arrived this morning, the Medusans had named the vessel Forrestal after an old Terra aircraft carrier. The vessel was the first in a new class being developed for the SLDF and the Medusans would be the first to use it. Approaching the vessel at high speed the four Schrack’s split into pairs near the front of the vessel flying down the length of the vessel.
In the CIC of the vessel Admiral John Jellico (Retired) stood at the rear of the room like the seasoned naval officer he was. For more than a decade he had commanded the Medusans before retiring two years ago in the middle of the room he watched his successor Admiral Samantha Harrington take command of the Forrestal. He quietly wondered what he’d do with such a vessel if he still commanded the Medusans, the unit had always been a JumpShip/DropShip unit with some ground forces to support operations but the Quixote added a new element to the unit’s capabilities. Now however was a day to be remembered for the Medusans he thought as Harrington guided the Forrestal through the Medusans JumpShip and DropShip formations parading the vessel in front of all of their people. The vessel would bring a completely new capability to the Medusans one that they could not squander Jellico knew that he’d trained Harrington and the others well, his unit was in a good place.
Construction site, Buick Mountain Range
Marduk, Robinson PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
28th April 3114
Massive machines were at work hollowing out a huge tunnel which would lead deep into the Buick Mountain Range on Marduk. Dozens of IndustrialMechs supported construction vehicles moving earth and rock out of the mountain as the new facility was constructed. Warrior House Leader Imarra Sortek stood back and watched as the men and women worked their machinery creating her House’s new home. After almost a decade in the Federated Suns her people had fully adopted their position in this new Inner Sphere it had taken some time but they had finally accepted their place in the nation instead of the Confederated Suns that bore them.
Unfortunately their people had also given up on the dream of remaining on New Avalon within the confines of the Sortek family landhold they were too different from the other members of the Sortek family and few of them could forgive the actions of Arden Sortek or his son Conner in their nation it didn’t matter to many that Arden was a hero to the Federated Suns or that Conner was a loyal officer of the Armed Forces. As a result of this tension Imarra had jumped at the offer from First Prince Burton Davion to take a landhold of their own on Marduk. Although the world was on the Draconis Combine border and likely to be targeted by any invasion force she relished the challenge for her people.
Since arriving on Marduk three weeks ago she’d searched for a suitable place for the Warrior House to call home and found the Buick Mountain Range was perfect for their requirements with massive reserves of granite which would protect her people should the Draconis Combine bring orbital bombardment against them. She’d employed half the construction companies on Marduk for the effort to hollow out a cavern which would serve as their Castle and command complex which would host and protect their vehicle and Mech maintenance facilities and their infantry barracks. The façade of the mountain face would be styled in a fashion which would be unique to her House forming a Monastery for their recruits to train and learn the ways of Warrior House Sortek before becoming fully fledged members of the command. This world now would serve as a base world for her people as they traveled the Federated Suns and helped its people and it would serve as a symbol of the strength of Warrior House Sortek.
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This is the design I used for the Quixote-class DropShip Tender, my thanks to the original designer I really liked it
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=1949.msg45841#msg45841 (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=1949.msg45841#msg45841)
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Another nice update! It took a moment to remember, but nice to see that the Warrior House Sortek found a new home in Marduk. We're they given any new equipment to expand or refit them?
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Cheers, nice to see this story progressing! :thumbsup: :-)
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Was wondering when we would see Warrior House Sortek again. Nice update! :thumbsup:
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Burn-in system, Hell’s Horses Formidable (Arbitration-class Battleship)
Arcturus, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
3rd May 3114
As the SLS Jerricho, an upgraded Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser exploded under heavy fire from the Formidable, Khan Teresa Cooper smiled this operation had been years in the planning and now with the Lyran Battleship LCS Diligence crippled and the Jerricho destroyed the path was clear for her Clan to begin landings on Arcturus, former capital of the Lyran Commonwealth.
The three galaxies she commanded had been reinforced with additional Clusters made up of the best her Clan could offer and trained in the Mongol Doctrine that her Clan was now fully embracing. Included in all these new clusters were warriors who had been bred through the Elstar program they were trained to be the elite of all warriors and were driven for success.
On the planet below there were seven commands belonging to the Lyran Commonwealth and several mercenary units ready to defend the world against the Hell’s Horses invasion. Normally she’d be concerned about retaliation by the Lyrans against her Clan but during discussions with the other Clans on Tukayyid she’d mentioned plans to invade this world. As a result of her plans the Jade Falcons and surprisingly the Coyotes had seen opertunities to increase their territorial. Only this morning the Watch had confirmed that Jade Falcon forces had invaded Bruekelen, Kirkcaldy, Aur and Edasich while the Coyotes had entered the Apostica and Ganshoren systems, the Coyotes had also taken several of the Hell’s Horses worlds in recent weeks freeing up troops for this operation. It was glorious to see the Clans on the move again it was like the spirit of Operation REVIVAL had been reborn by the actions of her Clan and the march on Terra had begun again.
---
Six days later Hauptmann Alex Gabriotti was fighting for his life as he had been since the Hell’s Horses landed on Arcturus as the Twentieth Arcturan Guards RCT had essentially been destroyed around him. This world was important to the Lyran Commonwealth it had served for many years as a capital world and the people were loyal to the Commonwealth and its Archon. Today it seemed all his troubles were coming from Hell’s Horses vehicles turning his massive Zeus ZEU-11S BattleMech to the right Gabriotti tried to track one of the two Vel Harrasser Hovertanks that were harassing him. Dropping the targeting over the tank he let rip with his clan built long range missile launcher and torso mounted medium and large lasers. Heat spiked in the Zeus’ cockpit as long-range missiles exploded all around and over the Vel Harrasser, the medium laser burned into the hovercraft’s armour and the large laser melted some of the scenary. Alex cursed loudly in Italian as he saw the large laser miss it was his best chance of knocking out the twenty-five-ton hovertank.
In response he felt his Zeus rocked as the return fire from the Vel Harrasser’s turret in the form of short-range missiles and medium pulse lasers cut into the legs and torso of his Mech. From his right the second Vel Harrasser appeared adding its own short-range missiles and medium lasers to the attack. Alone one of these craft would be no threat to his Zeus, together… Alex was in trouble. “This is Gabriotti, I need some assistance in sector four, two squirly hovercraft making life horrible here!” He shouted into the comm channel all he heard back was static one of the craft carried an ECM suite. “Screw you!” He cursed reaching out with his Zeus’ left arm and let rip with the gauss rifle mounted there the accelerated slug shot out of the gauss rifle and flew straight and true towards the Vel Harrasser entering the craft through the cockpit crushing the pilot in his chair the Hovercraft spun out of control its hover fans cutting to idle dropping it slowly to the ground. “Gabriotti, one down any assistance appreciated” he called out turning back towards the other as more short-range missiles flew into his BattleMech’s torso section. He returned fire blindly with long range missiles and was glad to see that some of the peppered the remaining hovercraft but didn’t penetrate the armour. Pulse lasers followed from the Val Harrasser but Alex was even more determined now stepping forwards adding the large laser to the hovercraft’s hurt causing more damage to the craft. This time the laser struck home and dug through the craft’s armour and sparked off the vehicle’s short-range missile launcher ammo bin. The resulting explosion channeled by the vehicle’s CASE system saved the vehicle’s crew just long enough for Alex’s follow up gauss rifle shot which gutted the remains of the hovercraft finishing it off in a brilliant explosion. “Gabriotti, two down!” He confirmed standing still for a moment glad to have survived the encounter.
From nowhere his Zeus was forced forwards as missiles slammed into the back of the Mech. The missiles had penetrated his rear armour blowing through the long-range missile ammunition bin. The CASE II built into the toros saved his Mech from a catastrophic death but his long-range missile launcher was now useless. He glanced at his sensors somehow despite having taken a hit directly to the crew compartment the first Vel Harrasser was still active he spun the Zeus as quickly as an eighty-ton BattleMech coult and launched a ferocious attack with both the gauss rifle and large laser destroying what was left of the hovercraft which disappeared in an expanding fireball. “Gabriotti, now it’s two down, am I the only one out here.” He communicated now seeing that he was back on the Lyran communication net.
“ALL LYRAN UNITS RECALL! RECALL! CODE OF DAY: ESSOVIUS REPEAT: ESSOVIUS” the transmission came across all channels Alex Gabriotti checked his code word and saw what ESSOVIUS stood for “Retreat to Royal Palace pending evacuation.” His heart sunk they’d already lost his own Twentieth and the Second Arcturian Guards on Arcturus now it appeared that they were also losing the planet turning his broken BattleMech away from the destroyed hovertanks he heeded the call and began to head back towards to capital.
The scene at the Royal Palace was chaos as the remains of various RCTs attempted to mount a final defence aganst the incoming Hell’s Horses. As his Zeus entered the main staging area, he saw dozens of armoured vehicles carrying the insignia of the Royal Guards and the Eisenjagers leave the area intent on taking the fight to the Hell’s Horses. Alex was directed to a Mechbay onboard a Union-class DropShip which was loading to leave the world. Before he entered, he saw General of Armies Aiden Grey, the former commander of the Twentieth Arcturian Guards RCT and now commander of all Lyran forces, standing directing commands. Alex’s battle was over his BattleMech could never be repaired intime for a last stand but the Lyran’s weren’t finished yet. Reports suggested that four Hell’s Horses Clusters had been destroyed so far and the Seventeenth and Twenty-seventh Arcturian Guards intended on adding more Horses to the butcher’s bill.
As Lyran ground forces and several mercenary units stream away from the planet the remaining defenders commanded by Aiden Grey vow to battle against the Horses until the end fighting into June trying to hold onto the territories they still held on Arcturus. Unfortunately following a failed resupply mission which cost the Lyran Commonwealth the LCS Thorn, an Indefatigable-class Battleship, the defence of Arcturus was declared a lost cause and further counter-attacks were called off.
Nova Cat Raid in Force
Minette Combat Region, Crucis March
Federated Suns
11th May 3114
Following the raid on Sherwood by Tyler’s Terrors Clan Nova Cat raid three worlds of the Minette Combat Region. In each of the worlds of Crofton, Des Aro and Symsonia. While both the Des Aro and Symsonia fall to the Nova Cats in standard Trials of Possession which the Federated Suns defenders fight honourably, but on Crofton the Nova Cats face the strongest opponents the veteran Regimental Combat Team the Fourth Crucis Lancers which is there to defend the massive Star League-era StarCorps Industries Manufacturing plant. To counter this defence unit Clan Nova Cat hit Crofton with the full force of five front-line Clusters of Alpha Galaxy supported by two WarShips.
Once on the ground Nova Cat saKhan Kalvin Rosse approached Marshal Yvonne Guillox the commander of the Fourth Crucis Lancers outside the planetary capital Marcus. “Marshal, thank you for meeting with me, I am saKhan Kalvin Rosse I am here to declare a Trial of Possession for Crofton.”
“I am happy to meet our neighbours in Clan Nova Cat, you have brought many warriors Khan.” She said diplomatically while Kalvin Rosse was not a young warrior at nearly fifty years old Yvonne Guillox was at least seventy years in age. Kalvin knew little about Inner Sphere MechWarriors only that most retired before they reached that age living out their last few decades in peace a Clan warrior could never accept that and nor it appeared could Guillox which was something Rosse had to respect.
“Marshal, in retaliation for actions taken by the Federated Suns sponsored dezgra mercenary force known as Tyler’s Terrors on Sherwood Clan Nova Cat has decided that the systems of Des Aro, Symsonia and Crofton will belong to Clan Nova Cat going forwards.”
“An extreme reaction, I had units on Des Aro and Symsonia” Guillox noted “perhaps Clan Nova Cat wishes more territory?”
“They have been treated fairly and they fought well. Those troops that survived are heading out of those systems to other Federated Suns garrisoned worlds. We only desire what we are due” Rosse responded “I would prefer not to destroy this world in taking it from you. It is the Clan way that we fight honourably so the equipment left can be used by the victors and in the future, it is available to be recaptured. You understand this quiaff?”
“Yes, I am aware of your practices.”
“Will you be willing to abide by them quiaff?”
“I have been ordered by my superiors to fight within your dueling rules and not use bring total war to you.” She said Kalvin smirked he was the one with two WarShips in system backing up the ground troops if anyone was bringing ‘total war’ it would be him.
“Good, I am glad. Nova Cat forces will meet you here and on each of the continents of Annesland, Churchill, Edwards and Lowther the winner of the overall number of battles will be declared victor. I will send you their combat information details. Your individual unit commanders will be invited by my Cluster commanders to enter a Batchall so we can fight with the smallest unit available to both sides minimizing losses on both our sides. It is your right as defender to decide to fight with your full force at any of these positions.” Kalvin explained
“I understand, I will ensure my people are aware of your laws.”
---
In the following days the Nova Cat clusters engage groups of Federated Suns troops at various locations across the world. Crowds of people gather to watch these events unfold as the two forces line up in full sight of each other before the combat breaks out. For many of the people it is the first time they have seen anything but units of the Federated Suns and for almost all of them the first time anyone has seen a Clan force.
At the worlds capital of Marcus and on the continents of Churchill and Edwards the Nova Cats are victorious while on the continents of Annesland and Lowther the Crucis Lancers defeat Forty-seventh Nova Cat Spirit Cluster and the Fifth Nova Cat Roar clusters causing heavy damage to the Clan forces despite this with three out of five victories Crofton and its valuable manufacturing facility are captured by the Nova Cats. The damaged remains of the Fourth Crucis Lancers are allowed to retreat out of the system.
---
Across the Federated Suns questions are risen to the High Command asking why a manufacturing site like Crofton was allowed to be taken by a “friendly” Clan. Questions are asked about the whole idea of an allied Clan especially after what the Lyran Commonwealth has experienced on Arcturus.
Passing Out Ceremony
Regulus, District of Regulus
Free Worlds League
20th May 3114
In a ceremony in front of great crowds Caden Cameron-Jones follows his older sister and becomes a MechWarrior in the service of the District of Regulus and the Free Worlds League. He like his older sister will join the Second Cameron-Jones Guard Regiment in the defence of Regulus.
Elsewhere in the Free Worlds League various District forces come into conflict with what is believed to be pirate forces striking at several worlds before crossing into other districts and then the two district forces coming into conflict over who has the rights to chase down enemy forces that cross borders.
Contract Negotiation
Kelswa-Aten Palace, Skye
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
22nd Mary 3114
Following the fall of Arcturus multiple mercenary units were retreating to Galatea Station, Noisiel or other mercenary worlds but that wasn’t the place for Koblenz’s Wildcats. Having served their way through the battles on Arcturus and had only left due to the evacuation orders issued by Lyran command now Kommandant Monzar Koblenz was determined to get his mixed battalion back into the fight and Skye was the way for it.
Walking into the Kelswa-Aten Palace in Glasgow on Skye Kommandant Koblenz saluted Duchess Ilsa Kelswa-Aten. “Welcome to Skye Kommandant” she greeted him.
“Thank you, Duchess, my Wildcats would like to work for Skye.”
“You would?” She asked surprised she knew of the Wildcats by reputation only they had worked exclusively for House Steiner since their inception and they had grown to more than a battalion in size before the fight on Arcturus. Used as a special operations/troubleshooting unit the Wildcats were a very experienced command.
“Yes, we have loyally served House Steiner for fifty years but it is time that we took a stand. The Clans are at the gates of Skye if they breach Skye then Terra is there next target and then my mercenary trade will end.”
“So you’ll stand with us in our time of need.”
“Yes mam, pay us enough to maintain our equipment, fuel our ships and put food in our bellys and we’ll fight for you.”
“I will accept your terms Kommandant with one requirement from you. How was Arcturus?”
“Hell on earth” Monzar Koblenz replied “the Horses hit us from every angle you can imagine. They hit fast and strong.”
“Can they be stopped?”
“Yes, if you train hard to counter them.”
“Then until they come your duties will be to travel the Isle of Skye and train my people how t’ fight and how t’ stop them.” She said her accent began to slip slightly as she spoke.
“We can do that.” He promised her their unit determined to now stand or fall against the incoming Clans.
Exploration Mission, District of Lesnovo Expedition-3
Algenib, Independent Periphery
Deep Periphery
29th May 3114
“MOVE YOUR ARSE!” Lieutenant Amanda Cavalcanti screamed at the drivers of the two Pit Bull Trucks that were moving ahead of her, she had been in situations like this before when against a superior opponent you don’t try to stand up against them. Their expedition had been ambushed by superior forces as the afternoon light began to fade. One of their Pit Bull’s had been destroyed and several of her Mechs were lightly damaged. “Cemetery Wind fall back by the numbers to the DropShip! These guys fired first and don’t want to talk to us.” She ordered the other three MechWarriors her unit had been hired to support the District of Lesnovo expedition force which was based off the Spirit of Northumberland. She twisted her Ebony Snake ultra-light BattleMech and let loose two salvos of rockets followed by some smoke from her BattleMech’s grenade launchers. She watched as the rockets exploded over the chest of the Vindicator causing minimal damage to the forty-five-ton Mech. She brought up her Mech’s handheld weapon and opened fire with the three machine guns mounted there with the rockets gone she was down to the machine gun fire.
“Boss, backtrack” one of the MechWarriors said as Rubiyov’s Rattlesnake stepped into view adding his own rockets to her fire as more enemy Mechs, four UrbanMechs moved into view. The UrbanMech was a joke across the Inner Sphere but it weights double her Ebony Snake’s tonnage.
This was the Cemetery Wind’s first contract off Lesnovo the idea was simply take the contract with the Exploration Corps jump around the periphery with the Spirit of Northumberland for a year or so, then make enough money to buy some larger Mechs for the next contract but things were going way south. As Amanda turned back towards the DropShip, she saw her biggest Mech the twenty-five-ton Mammoth piloted by Davie O’Connor step forwards firing long range missiles, two medium lasers and two machine guns into one of the UrbanMechs. The UrbanMech’s response was to torso twist and hit the Mammoth square in the face with an autocannon volley. Amanda saw the Mech’s advanced Reactive armour explode outwards deflecting some of the autocannon’s projectiles away from the Mech but she could also see heavy damage done to the Light Mech the pilot continued to fire even as he began to retreat.
They were in the clearing now and Amanda could see their Fortress-class DropShip which had began to lay down fire towards the incoming enemy Mechs. “Clean break people move towards the DropShip.” She ordered everyone the two Pit Bull trucks and her five Mech’s began making steady progress with the pirates unwilling to close on the DropShip, they were going to make it she thought.
Amanda Cavalcanti didn’t see the blow coming but she felt it as her fifteen-ton Mech was battered by the hatchet of a monstrous Archer. The massive axe slammed through her Mech’s legs crushing them and forcing the Mech to the ground. The Mech cartwheeled once beforce coming to a rest with Cavalcanti knocked unconscious by the impact. Around her there was momentary chaos as her lance tried to counter attack only to be knocked back by the Archer which dropped a salvo of napalm filled short range missiles between her Mech and her allies blocking any chance of them reaching her downed Mech. Despite the DropShip’s fire the ground forces from the Spirit of Northumberland were forced back to the DropShip which boosted towards orbit soon afterwards leaving Amanda Cavalcanti in her wrecked Mech behind.
---
When she came to Amanda Cavalcanti realized, she was in a cave and she was attached to a bed by a pair of handcuffs she wasn’t a kinky person so she guessed her encounter with the pirates wasn’t a really bad dream, she also realized that under the sheets she was in only her underwear and wrapped in a couple of large bandages which covered her side. She also quickly realized she wasn’t alone glancing over she saw a man who looked like he was in his thirties he was unshaven, he had long hair, which was tied back in a ponytail his face had several shallow scars on it and one deeper one that ran from the centre of his forehead into his left eyebrow.
“Good morning” he said his voice was rough and the accent wasn’t regional.
“I assume I’m your prisoner?” She asked rattling the handcuffs.
“You are.”
“Then I’d suggest you let me go, we have a WarShip in…”
“Your ship jumped out this morning, you’ve been unconscious for three days we suspect a concussion. Your DropShip burned straight to the ship and it left the system.” He said informing her “we now realise you are not a hunting band looking for us, you didn’t have to be our enemy, but you will not be collected by your people.”
“Too late not to be my enemy.” her mind raced their first job and she was abandoned by their employer. No by O'connor he wanted the damned job and now he had it.
“You will not be collected by your people” he repeated again as if rubbing it in. “But you do not have to be our enemy. Your injuries were not life threatening we have salvaged your dinky toy BattleMech, you could pilot it again.”
“I can’t see it” she said angrily staring at the rocks above her. “First thing you could do in proving your not my enemy is by giving me my clothes back?” She said glancing down at the sheets aware, they’d seen a lot that the cave wasn’t the warmest place and that she was probably showing quite a bit. “You salvaged my Ebony Snake, I should have a sachel in the cockpit with some spare clothing I’d like it back.”
“That can be arranged. Do not try to escape, the people on this world are not well developed and could see you as lunch. My people will continue to take care of you and we’ll take you with us if your cooperative but cross us…” he said leaning closer to her “cross us and you’ll pay a terrible price.”
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McCoy's Malcontents and Cemetery Wind detailed here
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=57910.0#lastPost (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=57910.0#lastPost)
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Products of Twin Sons Manufacturing for the AU
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=70198.msg1631655#msg1631655 (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=70198.msg1631655#msg1631655)
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Ambush Point
Hassad, Glasgow Commonality
Capellan Confederation
3rd June 3114
“Cut right!” The Bounty Hunter called out from his Marauder II BattleMech he saw Dominic Nostra’s Mad Cat move to the right clearing the way for his own autocannon and twin particle cannon shots to cause heavy damage to the Spartan BattleMech.
Things were not going as they had planned. The Bounty Hunter had come to Hassad as a hunter searching for the pirate band known as “7” but before his team could track down their prey the unit had been attacked by four identical SPT-NX Spartan BattleMechs already Mark’s Privateer BattleMech had been destroyed. For thirty years those that had served as the Bounty Hunter had not encountered these Mechs but now it was Christopher Grant’s turn to face them. Each Mech was eighty tons in weight, it moved up to ninety kilometres per hour and was heavily armed with a devastating sword, an assortment of missiles and lasers. Christopher cursed as his autocannon barrage battered against one of the Spartan’s massive shields which deflected much of the damage.
“We need to break out” Dominic Nostra said opening fire with his Mad Cat’s array of pulse lasers.
“Agreed” the Bounty Hunter replied firing again into an enemy Mech, they were outnumbered and going to be cut to pieces by these brutes of Mechs. “Kafka, point four hit his back open it up.”
“Affirmative” the pilot responded her modified Hawk Moth VTOL Verwandlung flew in fast firing a long stream of autocannon fire into one of the Spartan’s backs and heads as she passed overhead. The weapons barrage was enough to penetrate the Spartan’s head and either hurt or kill the pilot as suddenly the massive machine staggered and fell to the side.
“Well done, recover to staging. Dominic, Sam, Rayna move!” He snapped his green Marauder II moved towards the fallen Spartan as he twisted its torso towards another target and unloaded his weapons. Beside him the Mad Cat, Cauldron Born and Vagabond surged towards the gap. “Not today” Christopher Grant said reaching out with his Marauder II’s big arms to block a blow by one of the Spartan’s swords which smashed into the arm armour instead of striking something more vulnerable. Leaning his Mech forward Grant fired the autocannon at point blank range gutting the Spartan’s torso ruining its gyro he then twisted the his Mech’s torso knocking the Spartan to the side as a variable pulse laser burned across the Marauder II’s torso. Above Kafka dived in again showering the area in autocannon fire. “Kafka, withdraw before these idiots turn on you.”
“I’m too fast for them boss, get out of there!” She said as short-range missiles smashed into his Marauder II from the remaining two Mechs. The massive one hundred-ton Mech was battered from side to side as he fought to control it after losing over a ton of armour. Ahead of him in the gap the other three Mechs had stopped retreating and were firing their weapons in a covering pattern driving the remaining two Spartan’s back.
“All of you keep going we’re not hanging about the 7 can wait for another day.” Christopher said turning to face the two Spartans keeping up his firing pattern to keep the two assault Mechs back. Whoever these guys were they’d picked a bad time to return. The Bounty Hunter and his team continued to exchange fire with the Spartans until they reached their DropShip and boosted off the planet.
As if to add injury to insult the next day the 7 attack the Fifteenth Liao Lancers supply convoy in an attack alongside the two Spartans that had engaged the Bounty Hunter. The six Mechs combined destroy more than a Battalion of Liao Mechs, vehicles and infantry in a series of running battles before recovering much of the salvage as the Liao Lancers withdraw.
Trials of Possession
Crucis March, Federated Suns
14th June 3114
A series of Trials of Possession are declared by Clan Nova Cat targeting the Federated Suns worlds of Minette, Molino, Hortense and Shubuta as the Nova Cats drive deep into the heart of the Federated Suns. With the AFFS still deployed mostly to cover the borders with the Draconis Combine and Capellan Confederation the local forces have little choice but to fight to the Clan method of combat. On each of the worlds targeted by the Nova Cats the Clan encounters elements of the veteran Fourth New Avalon Guards RCT and local forces while over Minette two Davion-class Destroyers supplement the defences.
In a series of Trials of Possession, the Nova Cats are able to capture the systems of Molino and Hortense but they fail to secure Minette. Anger continues to feed back to New Avalon at the AFFS inaction to counter this raiding Clan and the lack of front-line forces in the area. Hundreds of messages are sent to the Royal Court, the office of the First Prince and the office of the Marshal of Armies demanding action. First Prince Burton Davion orders his Marshal of Armies Fredrick Davion to take personal charge of the Federated Suns defence against Clan Nova Cat.
Landing David Aceland (Buccaneer-class DropShip)
Coromodir VI, Cordia City
New Quarter, Fronc Reaches
22nd June 3114
The Fronc Reaches Government Buccaneer-class DropShip David Aceland slowly came to rest on the tarmac of the spaceport of Coromodir VI. While technically a member world of the Fronc Reaches the nation generally allowed its member worlds to run their own affairs and Coromodir had largely fallen away from Fronc Reaches politics. Ambassador Stanislav Radionov had been dispatched by Fronc to re-establish relations with Coromodir and bring it back into the fold. Now leaving his diplomatic vessel the Ambassador realized that Coromodir was far from the backward world he’d expected with a multi-tiered spaceport that had been built in the last forty years something few other Fronc Reaches worlds could boast. His well-kept business suit fit better into the local scene than he’d suspected it would.
He was taken onboard a well-kept motor vehicle and transported through a decently sized city, he wondered why this world was not more important to the Fronc Reaches. His vehicle was driven through the large gates of an ancient defensive fortress which looked Taurian in design. While far from being in pristine condition it was still an impressive formation he was escorted through the hall of the House Arano home to the leaders of Coromodir. On the throne sat a beautiful young woman she was half Stanislav’s age at least she wore a beautiful black and red gown which looked almost Capellan in design with a golden grown that ringed her forehead, while beside her throne was an equally young dark-skinned man who stood nearby he was dressed in a blue suit with a ceremonial cloak over his shoulders he wore his dark hair short and wore a pair of black rimmed glasses.
“Welcome to Coromodir” the young man said looking at him more closely as he spoke Stanislav noticed his arms shook gently as he spoke “you are in the presence of Ali’i nui of Coromodir Kamea Arano.”
“I am honoured” Stanislav Radionov said “Ali-inoo of Coromodir” he said stumbling over the title “thank you for inviting us here I am Ambassador Stanislav Radionov from Fronc.”
“Welcome Ambassador please Countess is as accurate as Ali’I nui, I will accept such a title from an ally.” The young leader of this world said her voice was sweet but strong.
“Thank you” he said bowing to her slightly in thanks “Countess, Fronc has been remiss recently and we have not been the best of neighbours we intend on improving those relationships.”
“I would welcome such an offer, House Arano has attempted to maintain necessary links with those worlds near us but the greater Reaches would be welcome visitors.”
“Your world is impressive Countess, how one such as Coromodir was allowed to lose its position within our nation baffles me.” Radionov admitted he’d heard the system’s name before but didn’t realize it was nearly as populated or as wealthy as it was.
“We have had a rough few years, famine, disease, internal conflict and conflict with our neighbours have all played a part in Coromodir’s low profile. Fronc, Detroit and others have been allowed to take the limelight while our people recover.”
“I see” Radionov said suddenly wondering just how far the Countess’ ambitions reached. “I look forward to strengthening the bonds between Coromodir, Fronc and the other worlds of our nation.” He said carefully hoping the young Countess’ ambitions would not compete with those of Fronc.
Defensive action
Denebola, Wolf Empire
30th June 3114
Returning to service with the SLDF Major Morgan Christifori joins the Fourth Knights of the Sphere, the Second Royal ComGuard Brigade and the Northwind Rangers Brigade as the three commands supported by the WarShips SLS Invincible, SLS Venus and the SLS Victor Focht, the SLDF’s newest Enterprise II-class Super-carrier. Without naval forces in system of their own the Wolves lose air superiority within hours of the landings of the SLDF units. The Fifth Wolf Lancers, Twenty-seventh Wolf Champions and Seventh Mountain Wolf Clusters are destroyed by SLDF forces while the Elite Fourteenth Wolf Assault Lancers and Black Guards Clusters are driven off. The anger within Clan Wolf leadership crosses the Touman quickly with the Wolf leadership taking their anger out on the Hellion’s Nightmare Galaxy disbanding it and sending its warriors to other units to rebuild them while a senior Wolf Star Admiral is removed from his post.
In brighter news the Wolves are able to hold Avellaneda and Abadan from assaults by Free Worlds League forces forcing back the invading forces during the attack the Free Worlds League deploys three new combined arms regiments which have been built from troops originating across the nation. Formed as a new peacekeeping and support force the Free Worlds League Protectors Brigade is a new formation in the Free Worlds League and one controlled exclusively by the Parliament instead of regional forces. Within the Free Worlds League this new force is welcomed as a defence force but regional powers are wary over adding armed forces which they have no control over.
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I see the ongoing issues with the Pirates of Smoked Cats
and gee play our rules... but when you do, we don't care...
20th March 3114
"Tyler’s Terrors led by Earl Jonas Tyler land on Sherwood, their homeworld, for the first time in thirteen years. There they face off against the Nova Cat’s 451st Pouncer Cluster and while they fight in accordance with Clan dueling rules of Zellbrigen they are soundly defeated and forced off world. "
at the same time as
"While Clan Nova Cat’s 449th Assault Cluster declares a Trial of Possession over the Federated Suns world of Minette"
So the Pirates were off hitting Fed Sun world but get pissy someone hit thiers????
11th May 3114
“Marshal, in retaliation for actions taken by the Federated Suns sponsored dezgra mercenary force known as Tyler’s Terrors on Sherwood Clan Nova Cat has decided that the systems of Des Aro, Symsonia and Crofton will belong to Clan Nova Cat going forwards.”
gee so they fought according to Clan rules...they are Dezgra???
got to love Pirate of Smoked Cats Concept of Honor, we saw it against the TC we see it here again. Time for People to unite and turn their forces to Slag. Bring the TC in with FS and clean out this pirate nation. After all they support the pirate action that lead to Endor event in the TC.
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I don’t want to give it away so I won't but no war works the same twice
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The Horses have hit Arcturus? Ouch! Thats gonna be messy! Great updates :)
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The Horses have hit Arcturus? Ouch! Thats gonna be messy! Great updates :)
It was. And they used some Vel Harrassers ;)
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It was. And they used some Vel Harrassers ;)
Aye I spotted some names :D Please feel free to use any of my stuff as always :D
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I don’t want to give it away so I won't but no war works the same twice
Which is why you mark your artillery impact spots and keep them safe for another day... ;)
Paul
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Which is why you mark your artillery impact spots and keep them safe for another day... ;)
Paul
I'll make sure the Wild Geese and Tikonov Cossacks remember that
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I don’t want to give it away so I won't but no war works the same twice
Nor do I expect you to...
I just want to make sure someone called out the Pirates Smoked Kitties, I did it with the war they started with TC. I'll make sure the Wild Geese and Tikonov Cossacks remember that
I'm sure they will remember that lesson, I on the other hand once hit my own P-hawk that was fighting to takeout a temp R&R battlefield site with a Long Tom round the pilot called. Using Maxtech Arty rules, I beleive I was 6 or 7 turns out
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Nor do I expect you to...
I just want to make sure someone called out the Pirates Smoked Kitties, I did it with the war they started with TC. I'm sure they will remember that lesson, I on the other hand once hit my own P-hawk that was fighting to takeout a temp R&R battlefield site with a Long Tom round the pilot called. Using Maxtech Arty rules, I beleive I was 6 or 7 turns out
Haha, I once killed a friendly vehicle with splash damage wasn't my best day, blew the side off a tank...
Base Camp, McCoy’s Malcontents
Wittington, Periphery
9th July 3114
She’d been given clothing and she hadn’t been mistreated in anyway for pirates these guys were not normal, these were things that Amanda Cavalcanti was grateful for, however she was still their prisoner and her freedom was unlikely to return. She was also lucky that she didn’t have children as it was unlikely that she’d return home anytime soon. After a single jump and a couple of days burn back in system McCoy’s Malcontents, as these mercenary/pirates called themselves, were now heading for home Amanda was stunned when she left the DropShip that she was at a well-maintained spaceport facility instead of some dirt track in the middle of nowhere. She was loaded onboard a cargo truck and driven away from the landing zone.
Now nearly an hour into their journey over dirt tracks the truck turned off into a well-maintained fire base which had been built around a grand looking country home. The truck drove in a circle around the house and then turned down a hill entering a cave under the house. Inside the cave Amanda could see that there were several BattleMech maintenance cubicles and what looked like tunnels deeper underground, she also noticed several other Mechs were present in the Mechbay. The truck came to a standstill and Amanda was led out of the back of the vehicle and told to stand still by one of her guards. She watched as Schuyler McCoy’s modified Archer docked in the Mechbay, it was then followed by the other Mechs of his support lance and finally the four pondering UrbanMechs. McCoy left his Mech and climbed down the gantry of the Mechbay before heading over unlike many Inner Sphere MechWarriors he had no coolant suit instead he wore a vest and shorts inside the Mech and he hadn’t bothered getting dressed into anything else yet.
“Welcome to Wittington” McCoy said as he approached “you will be treated well as long as you behave here.”
“Why do you take the UrbanMechs on raids when you’ve got all of these.” She said indicating around the bay the Mechs present were old, far older than McCoy’s Archer or his support lance but they were all capable designs. She looked down the numbers counting more than twenty BattleMechs including the two lances that McCoy had taken to Algenib.
“The UrbanMech is a right of passage if you can survive a battle in an UrbanMech then you can qualify for something bigger. We also have to garrison this world; the people trust us to keep them safe and independent.” He explained as a trailer dragging her broken Ebony Snake drove past them.
“How did you come across all these Mechs?” She asked curious about the Mechs origin some of these Mechs dated back to the eariest days of the BattleMech as a weapon of war.
“My father came here from the Federated Suns” McCoy explained “he didn’t want to join the AFFS after St Ives threw their lot in with the Suns. He and a few others came here hoping to make a life of their own. Along the way they raided several worlds netting them some of the Mechs you see present” he said “when my father came here he expected to build a home and retire however found the house you saw above abandoned the previous family long gone and he decided that would be his home. Under the house they found a vault with many of the Mechs present, it appears that whomever owned the house above stored these Mechs here to be used when they needed them and they never came back.”
“This is a find that would allow most people to retire very wealthy!” Amanda pointed out
“Not all of them are fully functional, but yes some men could retire. My father chose to retire safely on this world, but I want to see all of these Mechs restored to their full capability.”
“And you’ll do that any way you can” she said becoming annoyed that someone with so much potential wealth would abuse it like McCoy appeared to be.
“We only kill those we need to.” He said refusing to become angry at her “you’ll learn to understand. For now, we’ll make you comfortable.” He said indicating to the guards to take her away from him, she didn’t know what this place had in store for her.
Field Base Command, StarCorps Industries
Farrarrah, Annesland
Crofton, Nova Cat’s Den
11th July 3114
The office that once belonged to the head of the StarCorps Industries plant on Crofton now belonged to Khan Canin Rosse. He didn’t much like the room it was too cluttered with items that built up StarCorps as a company with small toy models of BattleMechs and vehicles produced by the company but it served him for today and that’s all that mattered. The door to the office swung open and in entered Star Admiral Alexandria Leroux she’d dyed her blonde hair red since his last encounter reminding Canin of Natasha Kerensky, he was sure she’d done it intentionally, otherwise her uniform was immaculate despite what she’d been through. “Welcome Star Admiral” he greeted her
“Welcome?” She snapped angrily sitting on the leather chair opposite him “have you heard what we went through?” She said astonished by his calm attitude “what they did to us?”
“Aff, I read” Canin said quietly looking at her with hard eyes “we had not expected them to know where our Terminals were, we were wrong.” He said continuing his calm tone the Terminals were massive space stations each almost two million tons in size they were home to six thousand Nova Cats and used as trade and maintenance hubs by the Clan. Each of them also carried numerous support aerospace fighters, DropShips and marines.
“Wrong!” She shouted angrily “wrong, they jumped in out of nowhere and hit us hard!” She snapped “the Lucian Carns was obliterated in a single volley from their three damned Battleships. They hit us with eight WarShips even with my full star of WarShips we had no chance.” She said angrily. Canin had read the report House Davion had retaliated for the Nova Cats attacks in predictable fashion using their heavy stick navy against the Nova Cats supply lines. Somehow, they had discovered where one of the Nova Cats supply stations were, they had jumped in just as Alexandria’s WarShip star was cycling through the system.
“I read the report” he said calmly.
---
The former flagship of the star, the Lucian Carns had been obliterated in the opening volley from the Federated Suns forces the Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser having no chance to retaliate against them. Alexandria had been onboard the Nightlord II-class Battleship Sacred Rite at the time of the attack and had ralied her forces with the Sacred Rite breaking over the nose of the Federated Suns flagship the FSS Black Prince crippling the vessel’s main guns with a devastating broadside. Unfortunately, the Federated Suns counter attack had caused massive damage to the Sacred Rite leaving it to drift into deep space.
With Alexandria out of the fight onboard the Nova Cat’s largest vessel the Terminal commander had taken command of the star and ordered a desperate battle while Nova Cat JumpShips and two Carrack merchant ships escaped. The remaining five WarShips had attacked with the Black Lion White Aerie and two Aegis-class Heavy Cruisers had cut down the port side of the Federated Suns formation tearing apart two Davion-class Destroyers that were protecting the three Battleships that anchored the formation before they themselves were destroyed by the Federated Suns armada’s combined firepower.
The remaining two Nova Cat WarShips the Tiglon, a Liger-class Strike Cruiser and Abrams, a Drake-class Corvette, had charged into the frey with the remaining DropShips and aerospace fighters supported by long range capital missile fire. On it’s approach the Abrams was torn to pieces by the heavier WarShips before it even got within weapons range. The Tiglon’s heavier frame charged into enemy formation shielding the small craft following it as the vessel approached it turned up towards the Black Prince intent on putting more damage on the massive Mercury-class vessel weapons had struck the vessel from multiple directions causing heavy damage forcing it off course and straight into one of the Federated Suns destroyers causing the destruction of both vessels.
As the battle came to a close the Nova Cat small craft and DropShips along with the Terminal fought to their last with one final Nova Cat victory coming as Nova Cat Elementals boarded the FSS Audacity, a First Prince II-class Battleship, as their transports were destroyed. The warriors had known their fate when they boarded the battleship and had no intention on surviving they made their way to the main magazines of the battleship killing anyone that got in their way before detonating massive charges which blew the nose off the battleship ending its fight.
This final act of defiance from the Nova Cats had sealed the fate of the Terminal and everyone who remained onboard the space station. Devastating blow after blow was delivered by the remaining Federated Suns WarShips ending its fight and cutting through its structure until the station was no more. Without bothering to recover any of the Nova Cat survivors the remaining Federated Suns vessels jumped back out of the system. Hours later the crippled Sacred Rite had returned to the area having recovered minimal maneuvering capability. Despite its damaged state the WarShip was able to pick up hundreds of escape pods from other vessels and the station before the Sacred Rite itself successfully jumped clear of the system finding an empty system nearby to shelter in. Additional Nova Cat vessels had rendezvoused with the ship and now repairs were beginning.
In all six Nova Cat WarShips, a Terminal station and thousands of personnel had been lost in the action with another vessel crippled, on the other side four Federated Suns vessels also being destroyed and another crippled. By far it had been the bloodiest battle of the conflict so far and the Nova Cats had been on the wrong side of the result.
---
“We cannot return the firepower they have at their disposal.” Rosse said finally “we now know how the Taurians felt when we attacked them quiaff?” Alexandria winced when the truth hit her. The Taurians hadn’t had WarShips to fight the Nova Cats honourably so they had resorted to using nuclear weapons to level the playing field now the Nova Cats were feeling the brunt of the Federated Suns retaliation. “I believe I said as much before this.” He said trying not to sound like he was saying “I told you so.”
“Aff, now what?”
“We started this conflict now we are in for the long haul. Alpha Galaxy embarrassed their Heavy Guards here but I have confirmed we have lost contact with forces on Kiza, Rentz and Ankou as well.”
“So, they have opened a second front on us quiaff? We’ll struggle to maintain defences against two fronts even if they do not have the location of all of our colonies the Federated Suns could do plenty damage.”
“Aff, they could, we are over extended.” He said pointing out “which is why I have decided we need to take another approach.” He said activating some table controls which brought up a holographic image of the space around Crofton. While the StarCorps office was too much for the Khan he did like some of the features. “Star Admiral, I am assigning you to the WarShip Excalibur. It still looks enough like an Avalon-class for it to pass. You are to proceed to the system of Charleston and broadcast a message to the the Second Watch Cluster which are currently there.”
“Charleston? That’s in the Gaenir Collective, quiaff?” She asked naming the distant periphery state.
“Aff”
“You are sidelining me!” She said angrily she was young and didn’t fully understand his thoughts on the matter.
“Neg, I am not.” He said “the trip to Charleston will take you the better part of three months.” He explained “once you have reached transmission position and the Second have received the message you will procced to the Federated Suns Hadrian’s Command.” He said suddenly her anger turned into a smile.
“They show their intelligence has found things and we show ours has found things?” She said seeing an opportunity for glory again.
“Aff, you will defend yourself if required, you will broadcast your identity and then you will leave the system. I want the Federated Suns worried about what we could do if we wanted, you are not to attack their stations for now.”
“It would be easier if I went directly there, we have forces in the expansion zone they could pass your message.” She protested
“Neg, you lost a WarShip star Alexandria” he said to words slowly even as she began to protest, as he did he rose from his chair “you did. Regardless of the odds against you they were lost under your command. I need to sideline you or you will face trial after trial.”
“Which I can face!” She protested she had not risen to her current rank without fighting.
“Neg, our Clan does not need our senior Admiral defending her position from petty duels!” Canin
pointed out raising his voice, he hadn’t wanted this conflict but he’d fight it his way. “I need the Clan focused and focused on the Federated Suns.” Rosse explained.
“What message am I passing to the Second Watch?”
“The Nova Cats are pulling out of the Expansion Zone.” Rosse said “we punished the Taurian Concordat drove them from their worlds and have no doubt improved the life of many of the people there we have done enough with that distraction. Instead the forces there are going to attack Malagrotta and the worlds around it. We are going to open our own second front and see how the Federated Suns likes it.” He announced “I want the Taurians and Gaenir fighting over what we leave behind for them our agents on Taurus will ensure that they are also aware that we are withdrawing.”
“Politics should be left to the Ravens and the Falcons” Alexandria protested she didn’t like how he was playing the other two nations against each other.
“Aff, but sometimes we need to dabble.” He explained “now rest up, you have got a long journey in front of you.” He said returning to his desk with that she was dismissed the fondness and closeness that they had once shared appeared to be gone. She knew she had failed him, she had pushed for this conflict for the good of their Clan and she had failed him Rosse had built the Nova Cat’s home and he wouldn’t let it fall under his watch.
Capellan Confederation offensive
Free Worlds League
13th July 3114
In retaliation for the fighting that took place on Hassad all seven of the Capellan Confederation’s Warrior Houses with the armoured cavalry regiments in support assault the Free Worlds League hitting the systems of New Delos, Carbonis, Las Halles and Varna. In the Carbonis system the CCSS Chancellor’s Destiny, a Bain Cheng Wang-class Battleship, destroys the vessel OPS Hamilton allowing ground forces to land.
On the ground the three Free Worlds League units on Carbonis drive off the Capellans but they are able to inflict damage on each from high oribit the Chancellor’s Destiny fires several rounds to keep the FWL units at bay but without actually striking their opponents. The Free Worlds League defences on Las Halles and New Delos are also able to drive off the Capellan raiders but Varna falls to Capellan attacks.
Following the attach on Carbonis the FWL government complain to the Capellan Confederation for the actions of the Chancellor’s Destiny but due to the lack of casualties caused by the strike they take no further action.
Clan skirmishes
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
23rd July 3114
As Clan Coyote land forces on Symington and Auldhouse begins to show the fractured nation of the Clans with Clan Ghost Bear cutting into the backs of the Coyote forces capturing Dalkeith, Grumlum, Gunzburg and Skandia in a series of Trials of Possession. The Hell’s Horses also claim Carstairs, Breukelen and Kirkcaldy from the Jade Falcons further fragmenting the Clan’s front lines.
The Jade Falcons retaliate against the Hell’s Horses striking at the Horse’s newest jewel Arcturus keeping the Clan forces there uneasy. The Jade Falcon strike on Hell’s Horses positions also reveal that some of the Lyran resistance forces are still active on the recently lost world.
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Nice to see the Fed Sun open back up and showing the Pirates Smokied Kitties now understand, what they stuck their hand into.
glad to see I'm not the only 1 to do blue on blue arty strikes
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Exercise Run
Colleen, Deep Periphery
Clan Homeworlds
1st August 3114
Sometimes even a Khan just needed to get away from everything, with modern technology they could easily be in contact with command in moments and back within a command centre in hours, in Khan Alex Lassenem’s case today was one of those days yesterday had been a bad day for the surviving Clans in the Homeworlds. He’d needed a run and he’d run into the forests of Colleen.
After liberating Grant’s Station from Society and Dark Caste forces the Society had responded by detonating nuclear warheads buried under each major settlement on the planet essentially turning the once fertile world into a nuclear wasteland. Lassenem had ordered as much of the population evacuated as possible but the losses were high. Leading to his run far from the nearest Blood Spirits settlement on the planet into the wilderness of one of the few safe places in the Clan Homeworlds his people still successfully held Collen, Glory, Sheridan, New Kent and Hector successfully defending them with the Goliath Scorpions from Society incursions. Recently the Goliath Scorpions had colonized a new world known as Arizona which was on the far side of the Clan Homeworlds from Colleen and was intended on being the Goliath Scorpion’s new primary holding.
Unfortunately, the Clan’s greatest difficulty at present was their inability to build new WarShips Alex had tried for months to assemble the components to build a working shipyard but time and again they had failed to construct a working facility. Instead the Blood Spirits were forced to rely on capturing Society vessels or raiding weapons caches their most recent accusation had been three Molniya-class Corvettes originally build by Clan Wolf but abandoned after they found the ships were difficult to maintain the Blood Spirits didn’t have an option but to press them into service.
As he ran, he thought about different scenarios that his Clan could take to counter their weaknesses against the Society there was so much to think about. The Goliath Scorpions had begun to produce the Sun Bear OmniMech at their factory here on Colleen and they planned to build it on Arizona too further bolstering their medium Mech forces but still the Clan forces were badly outnumbered. One of his advisers had suggested taking one of their recommissioned Molniyas to the Inner Sphere to call on support from the other Clans…
Stopping his run for a moment Alex thought through the idea he wanted to head to the Inner Sphere personally to deal with the dezgra Stone Spritis but his desire for revenge had to wait until the Clan Homeworlds were liberated as for the other Clans. The Clans had abandoned their Homeworlds chasing down the dream of conquering Terra and becoming the ilClan. Of the Clans in the Inner Sphere the Bears, Nova Cats, Foxes and Ravens were most likely to return but all of them were significantly bigger than his Clan… once again the Blood Spirits would be the junior member of Clan society… which he didn’t like. Dealing with the Society was his mission, his Clan’s lasting legacy to the memory of Nicholas Kerensky.
Thanks to their successes against the Society and their successful defence of multiple systems against the dezgra scientists the Blood Spirits had fully reconstituted The Blooding, Blood Redeemers and the Bloody Resistance Galaxies each with five clusters while the Goliath Scorpions had successfully put back together two Galaxies of troops, still they were outnumbered by the Society and Dark forces. Each time he brought enough forces against them the Society retreated and used weapons of mass destruction or orbital bombardment scattering his people.
As he stood in the middle forest on the rough path suddenly things did not feel right things were too quiet. He turned on the spot his right-hand drifting towards his gauss pistol sidearm as his hand grasped the weapon, he felt the ground rock beneath him. Unlike the Blood Spirits previous home of York Colleen was not majorly tectonically active suddenly from beneath the ground a massive creature climbed out of the ground.
Coloured red the animal was clearly a mutated/modified scorpion with six powerful legs, two curved claws and a curved rear tail stinger. Alex dodged backwards away from the creature as its left claw swung out. Alex was aware of almost every species on Colleen and he didn’t know this one. As the claw sung past him again, he saw pronged hair sticking from the side of the claw, it reminded him of the mane of a Nova Cat, the swipe missed him again as he drew his pistol aiming down at the beast, he fired a shot into it. The creature’s armoured hide stood up to the strike and swung at him again this time it connected with his stomach ripping through his work out t-shirt but failing to penetrate the skin.
Alex rolled the opposite direction away from the beast as scorpion’s stinger struck out towards where he had been the sprayer sending an acidic substance onto the rocks and trees beside him. Alex grunted knowing no natural creature could spray such a substance he turned the pistol on it again and fired several shots into the scorpion’s side. The Scorpion’s blood spilled out from his hits but it then turned and swung its claws at him again fortunately missing. Alex fired another shot between its solid black eyes and ran knowing fine his pistol was out of shots and that the beast wasn’t going to be stopped so easily. He saw a large tree that would support his weight and jumped up grabbing a large branch he pulled as hard as he could launching himself up off the ground just as the scorpion’s pincers swung where his legs would have been. The scorpion’s stinger shot out more of the acidic goo burning into the tree.
High enough to be out of the creature’s reach Alex replaced the ammunition cartridge in his weapon and reached for his communicator, knowing he’d need help. He noticed it was gone and frantically began to look around seeing the communicator laying on the trail where he had been standing “stavag!” He muttered angrily. Trying to put the thought out of his head he took aim with his pistol and fire again into the creature but he knew he had no chance of defeating it with his pistol. He’d have to bide his time and hope that the tree held up and his enemy became tired.
Hours past and Alex Lassenum had felt himself begin to drift off to sleep several times but he was resisting it, he couldn’t take the chance of sleeping then falling off the branch. By now he knew that his subordinates would be looking for him, but he also knew the scorpion was in the area hearing it every now and then moving below in the growing darkness. He’d thought about it and while the Society probably would release such a creature they didn’t know where Colleen was, his Watch were good enough to have stopped their intelligence in its tracks, so there was only one likely cause for this beast’s origin and that was Clan Goliath Scorpion why they had created and released such a deadly alpha predator onto the world was beyond him. He raised the pistol into the air and fire a single shot he’d decided that if the weapon couldn’t penetrate the scorpion’s armour, he’d try a different tactic and use it like a signal flare.
The action attracted the scorpion’s attention and he felt another thump against the tree as one of its pincers and then the other collided with it again the tree withstood the attack. Alex began wondering how long he’d have to wait for help to arrive but before he could contemplate waiting longer help in its most unlikely form arrived.
He didn’t know if they’d been attracted by his pistol fire, the noise created by the scorpion’s attack against the tree or the smell of the scorpion’s blood but from the shadows two massive smoke jaguar big cats leapt onto the scorpion. From their attack Alex guessed the animals had been observing for a while as one jumped directly on the scorpion’s tail pinning its dangerous stinger into the ground tearing at the limb as the other jumped directly onto the massive scorpion. The scorpion’s size and strength was demonstrated as it continued to try and move as the jaguars launched their attacks tearing at its armoured hide with their incredibly sharp claws. While Alex’s pistol had not been particularly effective the jaguars sustained attacks quickly proved effective with a piercing scream the scorpion’s tail was ripped from its body spilling blood everywhere behind while the other jaguar’s claws tore into the scorpion’s back tearing at its organs. It was a methodical, vicious slaughter which Alex was witnessing the two jaguars showing exactly why Nicholas Kerensky had chosen it as Totem animal of the Clan.
Alex remained in the tree for an hour as the two smoke jaguars finished off the scorpion and then ate what they could of the animal leaving only its armoured carcass and its deadly tail. They then disappeared into the darkened forest around Alex. He allowed them to leave before jumping down and grabbing the communicator calling for extraction he was glad he’d insisted on his teams recovering as many of the Clan’s totem animals as possible and resettling them on Colleen far from the Society’s influences.
---
It took an hour for the Blood Spirits to arrive and take Alex back to a command bunker. There he’d learned the true scale of this crisis eighteen attacks had been recorded all over Colleen with massive civilian casualties when the attacks had occurred in open areas. “Get me the Scorpions… NOW!” Alex demanded standing in the command bunker still wearing his ripped running gear a few minutes later the image of Khan Ingo Yeh appeared, the man did not look well. “Khan Yeh, explain what the hell is going on and tell my why you have betrayed us!” He said angrily.
“It… it was a mistake.” Yeh stammered over the worlds “Khan Lassenum, my Clan was developing a weapon that could be released onto an enemy world before an invasion and sow chaos. One of our scientists released them into the wild believing they deserved to live free and not be used as weapons. She has paid the price of her actions with her own life.” He explained the use of animals as weapons was distasteful but not anything worse than what the Society had done.
“That is not enough. Hundereds of people that my Clan has safeguarded from the Society are dead. You understand a price has to be paid and shown in public, Quiaff?”
“Aff, Khan Lassenum, I am ready to answer for my Clan.” Yeh responded surprising Lassenum with his willingness to answer his challenge himself. “Name your place and I will meet you in combat.”
---
The next day Alex Lassenum was onboard his personal Osteon deep inside the OmniMech’s torso mounted cockpit near the Windsheer Falls a freshwater waterfall between Blood Spirit and Goliath Scorpion territory. The eighty-five-ton OmniMech originally belonged to the Society but he’d used it in an operation against them and had kept it as his own. Against him he watched as one of the new Sun Bear OmniMechs walked out into the space, this had to be a joke the Mech weighed thirty tons less than his Osteon this wouldn’t be a fight it would be a slaughter. “Khan Alex Lassenum, I am ready to answer for my Clan’s mistakes”
“Ingo, I am ready to offer you the honourable way out, use your own Mech.”
“Neg, the Sun Bear will serve my Clan in the future it is a symbol of our rebirth. I will show that it can fight.”
“Understood, fight well.”
“Seyla”
“Seyla” Alex replied immediately rising the Osteon’s two arms letting rip with his Hyper Assault Gauss Rifle and a wave of improved advanced tactical missiles. The gauss rifle shots sand-blasted all over the arms, torso and legs of the Mech. The missiles followed the hit blanketing the Mech in explosions, electronic noise and flame. The lighter Mech wasn’t finished yet firing its ultra autocannon and lasers at the Osteon. The assault autocannon tore through his Mech’s torso armour exposing massive chunks of its reinforced skeleton. The Sun Bear’s pulse lasers burned across the Mech’s torso but its extended range lasers missed their mark.
On his sensors Alex could see that the Sun Bear was near the point of overheating its systems struggling to cope with the attack and his magnetic pulse missiles. Instead of following up with more missiles he added several pulse lasers to a second volley of gauss rifle fire into the Sun Bear. The OmniMech weathered the attack although Alex could see the lighter design was struggling as gauss rifle slugs and lasers peppered the hull. To Ingo Yeh’s credit he didn’t give up after the attack instead he tried to attack again firing the autocannon on its own shells tore up the ground all around the Osteon but caused little in the way of damage. Alex returned fire with far more accurate fire to the still Sun Bear.
“I am sorry Alex” Ingo Yeh broadcast as the improved inferno ammunition exploded over the Sun Bear, Alex’s gauss rifles slugs slammed into the Mech moments later gutting the Sun Bear’s torso and cockpit killing the Goliath Scorpion Khan. Alex stood silent and watched the burning OmniMech topple backwards landing on its back there was no rushing to check if the pilot was alive, everyone watching knew he was already gone. Alex had been involved in the return of the Goliath Scorpions to Colleen saving the Clan from becoming lost in the periphery and now he’d killed their leader, a man he considered to be a friend.
Four days later new Khan Freema Kirov becomes the leader of the Goliath Scorpions. Now that the Goliath Scorpions have Arizona as a world of their own Kirov agrees to remove the Goliath Scorpions from Colleen leaving the Blood Spirits with their home but she also agrees to continue operations with the Blood Spirits against the Society.
Field Office, Irian News Network
Kirin River, Irian
Star League Protectorate
19th August 3114
There was a gentle knock at the door and Marshal… no, General Richard Steiner rose from his chair straightening his new SLDF uniform as the door swung open revealing his wife, and the mother of his children, Duchess Kym Hasek liege lord of the Capellan March in the Federated Suns. She was as beautiful as the day she had met him when they’d both served in the unit he’d now taken from the Federated Suns and into the Star League Defence Force.
“Duchess, welcome to Irian” he said formally as she entered the News Network office Richard had commandeered as a command post. There was nothing in the room personal to him but she scanned the room not even looking at him.
“You couldn’t even meet me at landing?” She asked not looking at him instead picking up a small metal model of a Marauder II BattleMech.
“We have been busy” he said bluntly Clan Wolf were a constant menace to Irian at present, and the Uhlans were converting over to SLDF uniforms and supplies. The Uhlans were changing every day and it was upto him to make sure they were ready so far, the SLDF had agreed to rebuild the unit to its previous full Regimental Combat Team Federated Suns structure. They were also sending the unit masses of new trainees trained in the standard SLDF training meaning he had a lot of retraining to do.
“So, I saw outside” she said still walking around the office before finally looking at him, he could see her eyes were watering. “Why are you still here?” he could tell by her voice that she was talking about him and not just his unit.
“We’ve got a responsibility to the people here, we were saved by the SLDF and brought here away from the Capellan border, something the Federated Suns failed to do time and again.” He pointed out stating the facts. “My people feel they owe the SLDF for their actions, we have an enemy here that could devastate humanity.”
“I understand the consensus within the unit. The Federated Suns had the firepower to get you out, but the military failed to it would have resulted in a major war, but they could have done it.” She conceded “So, I understand the unit’s decision. I don’t agree with it and I think that the Kathil Uhlans should be able to return to Kathil with honour.” She said emphasizing where the unit was from. “But that choice has been made. My question is why are you here when you family are on Kathil.” She said he’d heard she had arrived on the planet alone their children had remained on the Capellan March’s capital world.
“I miss my family greatly; I have for the last two years.” He said he’d sent messages from Las Halles in the Free Worlds League, but never had a response to be fair he didn’t know if his messages had gone through. “But my duty is…”
“To the First Prince, the person you swore your loyalty to.” She snapped “You should come home.”
“My oath to the First Prince was to protect those in need, my unit needs me, there is a mission that needs done. I showed loyalty to the Federated Suns until the Federated Suns left us on our own at the arse end of the Free Worlds League!” He snapped back “They abandoned us, Duchess, I had more support from the leader of Las Halles than I did from my own wife!” He said angrily her eyes meeting his as the truth came out, he felt betrayed by her inaction to rescue his unit. In his eyes leaders of the Capellan March were supposed to stand for their people, and she couldn’t even stump up to support her husband’s units.
“My hands were tied, I asked Burton to act on your behalf he refused. He’s more concerned with holding our borders, the Draconis Combine, the Nova Cats, the Capellans all threaten us daily and your sat here…” When she’d left the Federated Suns the nation was engaged with the Nova Cats on one border and now since landing the Draconis Combine had pushed into the Draconis March as far as Crossing in a rapid invasion which had exposed how threadbare the Draconis March had been left by the invasion and defence of Benjamin and the salient of worlds that were near it. They couldn’t face everyone.
“Holding back the Wolves.” He said calmer this time there were threats everywhere he now faced those he’d been fighting for months; they were a bigger threat at the moment. “I go where I am ordered, I serve those in need, I serve with the people who have my back. The Federated Suns and SLDF are allies, the people in this unit could go home at anytime.”
“But you won’t come home to us?”
“I think the time we’ve had apart has proven that duty is a burden we both share, and one that is perhaps more of an influence than other things.” He said calmly “I belong here now; you have duties at home.” He said trying to keep this as painless as he could, they had met when they served together now duty was separating them.
“And what about your children? Do you not have a duty to them?”
“I hope to see them again as soon as it is possible.” He said he missed Andreas and Rebecca deeply but he’d had time from them taken away and now the Uhlans choice also separated them. “I’ll see them again in the future, if you are willing to let me.”
“You’re their father. The door will always be open you’ll always be welcome at home.” She said finally looking around the room “Is this us?” She said finally approaching the topic they’d both danced around.
“Perhaps” Richard admitted pausing before speaking again “perhaps in time we will both approach things differently.” He suggested, “for now we are on slightly different paths” he said rather bluntly.
“Should your path take you back to Kathil you will be welcome General” she said finally looking at him. “Good luck, Richard to you and your Uhlans.” She said and without another word she walked from the room. After a few minutes the side door to the office opened and Freema Smit, former Prefect of Las Halles stepped into the room.
“I’m sorry” she said stepping into the room, she’d heard their discussion it had been nearly impossible to miss.
“It’s not your fault.” He said quietly pretending to read reports putting both his wife and Freema to the side. “Duty drives us.”
“Yes, even when it causes us pain” she said moving over to one of the couches. “Do you think she suspects?” She asked sitting down opposite him “about us?” She asked the loaded question that was between them.
“While she likely doesn’t know fully about “us” but she knows that as the Duchess of the Capellan March she abandoned me and the Uhlans. For now, that’s all she needs to know for certain, allow that hurt to land before I add to her hurt.” He explained continuing to read the reports.
“She’s the duchess of a House region she has resources which will allow her to see exactly what you are upto… and who with.”
“That’s her choice” he said looking up at her “I’ve made my choice; I know who was there for me when I needed them.” He explained making it clear he meant her.
Trial of Position
Sheridan, Wolf Empire
25th August 3114
During a routine initial Trial of Position on Sheridan one of the candidates makes a name for himself by taking down three opponents in his Trial. While not an extraordinary feat for a Trueborn warrior Alaric Wolf’s third kill happens to be the other Cadet Wolf pilot who is in the Trial with Alaric executing the other pilot with a particle cannon blast from one of his customized Blood Reaper’s main guns. Further adding to the mystery of Star Captain Alaric Wolf his blood heritage is not exactly clear as he stands for no house during his Trial of Position despite being a trueborn warrior due to his lack of a house he is assigned to the newly formed Ninth Wolf Guards cluster a unit made up of mostly freeborn warriors using standard Inner Sphere and modified Inner Sphere BattleMechs.
Border skirmishes
Nova Cat’s Den/Federated Suns
30th August 3114
The border skirmish between Clan Nova Cat and the Federated Suns continues as Clan Nova Cat invade the world of Minette crushing remnants of the Fourth New Avalon Guards RCT which had been rebuilding on the world. The much depleted Fourth New Avalon are no match for two full clusters of the Nova Cat’s recently raised Zeta Galaxy made up mostly of recently graduated ristar warriors the men and women of Zeta Galaxy wish to prove their worth to Clan Nova Cat.
Things do not go completely the Nova Cat’s way however as Federated Suns forces push the Nova Cats off Symsonia, Des Aro and Zolfo severely damaging the Nova Cat forces on all three worlds forcing them deeper into the Nova Cat’s Den.
One setback the Federated Suns has is from an unexpected source. The Twenty-first Illician Lancers Regiment raid the world of Merowinger intent on driving home the Federated Suns intentions in stopping the Nova Cats and driving them back into their own territory however as the unit assaults the world their DropShips are hit by a wave of capital and sub-capital missiles fired from the surface of the world. Heavily damaged before they even make it fully into the atmosphere the Illician Lancers detect several Verne Cargo Subs which are sitting on the surface of Merowinger’s main ocean launching missiles from their cargo holds. How the Nova Cats gained access to the Inner Sphere class of Submarine was a question for another day for the Illician Lancers they were a problem for today and one they could not fully counter. Under the hail of fire, the Lancers land only to be engaged and destroyed by elements of the 454th Nova Cat Pouncer Cluster which were prepared to engage them as soon as the DropShips landed. This use of a planetary defence system is a first for the Nova Cats or any of the other Clans as far as the Federated Suns are aware.
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WoW! What an update!
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WoW! What an update!
Thanks I rushed the last chapter and am not happy with it but I've decided to do a spin off showing how they got to that point and the history behind the subs
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Thanks I rushed the last chapter and am not happy with it but I've decided to do a spin off showing how they got to that point and the history behind the subs
Spin off? So is this ending or being paused for the new story?
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Great update! Lots going on but superb stuff as always!
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Spin off? So is this ending or being paused for the new story?
The timeline isn't ending but I will expand the story of how and why they turned to subs with missiles for defence
It'll introduce some new characters too just for fun but it'll take place before the timeline is currently set
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The timeline isn't ending but I will expand the story of how and why they turned to subs with missiles for defence
It'll introduce some new characters too just for fun but it'll take place before the timeline is currently set
Sounds interesting.
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The first part of my spin off story Foresight is up, hope you all enjoy. It'll be told over multiple parts how many I haven't decided yet but it'll hopefully open up a few new areas of the story.
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=70846.new#new (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php?topic=70846.new#new)
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I'll be going back to the break away story - Foresight - soon but for now another update.
Meeting Room, Gulf Breeze Station
Gulf Breeze, Coventry Province
Lyran Commonwealth
14th September 3114
One wall of the meeting room was dominated by massive floor-to-roof screens that gave views outside of the Gulf Breeze Station giving the impression that they were looking out windows while infact they were deep inside the space station. Commanding-General Victor Focht found the huge screens a little offputting but they did offer a spectacular view of the moon which the station was anchored to over Gulf Breeze Five and of the Star League Defence Force’s newest WarShip the SLS Indianapolis an eight hundred and thirty thousand ton vessel of a class with the same name. The vessel was officially classed as a Heavy Cruiser but the SLDF planned to use it and its three sister ships the SLS Bon Accord, SLS Endurance and SLS Nathan Hale as training ships for the SLDF military. The fact that the ships carried a significant amount of firepower and were capable of independent military operations was a fortunate coincidence. Turning away from the view he looked at one of the administrators here on Gulf Breeze Dame Annie Christopher, she was in her eighties but a life in space without the stresses of planetary gravity or weather made her look twenty years younger, she was thin but muscular not gaunt, her skin was pale her hair still featuring its brown colour of her youth. “An impressive vessel Commanding-General”
“Yes, she is we’re quite pleased with it.” He said “the Indianapolis will take up station at Swartklip along with its support vessels. She will be a deep space training and patrol vessel. During training future naval officers, DropShip crews and fighter pilots will be assigned to one of the Indianapolis-class vessels for on the job training.”
“A very large and well armed vessel for training operations.” Annie Christopher noted most nations assigned training crews to far smaller vessels.
“Yes, due to the areas these vessels will be deployed we decided to over engineer the vessel for its task. If required these ships can assist Star League facilities, participate in fleet operations or remain independent.” He explained “which leads to me to the reason we are here today. We wish to purchase a Wheeler-class Station which will be assembled in the Swartklip system.”
“That will not be an easy task” Annie Christopher said surprised by the idea the Wheeler-class was a common sight in the Gulf Breeze system but the reason for that was the station used to construct them was based here. “Commanding-General, the Wheeler-class Station is two hundred thousand tons in weight and they are over twelve hundred metres in width they cannot be jumped from system to system in one piece it takes a lot of preparation and work.”
“We are aware however while there is a dozen in the Swartklip system that could fit our purposes they are currently being used for mining operations. As the world is under SLDF protection we wish to show the people that we are willing to put in the leg work and provide them with the support that is needed. Such a station will be a symbol of SLDF support for the system and for Gulf Breeze as we will be providing people in this system with jobs as well.”
“Only two Wheeler-class stations are built a year inside the Spider. Most of the time they are to replace aging stations that are coming to the end of their lives. Building one for such a specialist operation will take significant time and money.”
“Which the SLDF will be willing to help compensate you with and assist the LCAF in the Gulf Breeze system as well as Swartklip. The SLS Tidesurge, an Antares-class Support Vessel, is assisting operations and maintenance of local stations in the Swartklip station. We will detour them for one month in a year to Gulf Breeze where they will assist in an maintenance operations that are required.” He suggested he knew that the LCAF would accept such support if the people on Gulf Breeze Station were happy with the assistance but he could tell that was not enough for Annie Christopher. “Also given Gulf Breeze’s history dating back to the original Star League-era perhaps you could make room for a research team here on the station?” He suggested “perhaps a dozen historical researchers plus support personnel and room for any visitors from the Swartklip garrison or Star League Command. Room for two hundred personnel and research space? The space and resources will be paid for by the Star League of course.” He said suggesting the SLDF take on a permanent presence on the station and that they’d be willing to pay for it had the impact he was hoping for from Dame Annie Christopher the support the Tidesurge could offer the system wouldn’t hurt but the money, that’s what made the wheels move in this system.
“I think we could come to some sort of agreement there.” Annie Christopher suggested “we’ve actually been developing a transportable version of the Wheeler for customers in the Commonwealth.”
“You have? How fortunate” Victor muttered after all that they had some sort of solution waiting in the wings waiting for the right gullible customer, he wondered for a moment how many times the people on Gulf Breeze had pulled this kind of act.
“Because of the potential support you could offer the Gulf Breeze system, and because you’ll be operating one of our stations in the future, perhaps it would be better if we provided you with something other than space?” She suggested
“Oh yes?”
“How about the SLDF take over one of the older Wheeler stations in the Gulf Breeze system? It is a perfectly serviceable station, it would give your crews practical experience in using one of the Wheeler-class stations and will give your researchers access to Gulf Breeze Station whenever they need it.”
“An interesting idea, and this older station would it be much different than the one you’d be building for us?” Victor Focht asked wondering if the movable station was going to be completely different from the older model she was offering.
“I wouldn’t have thought so, our newer models are only different in how they are being constructed overall all Wheeler’s are very similar a flying gravity deck in space capable of housing ten thousand souls.”
“I think we can make something work.” Victor said he wasn’t sure what the SLDF would do with all the space but having a base of operations separate from the Gulf Breeze Station would be helpful. Until the station was operational in the Swartklip system the SLDF could at least use the base as a training hub. “I’ll detour the SLS Tidesurge to the system their crews can make sure the station is ready for our peoples needs what is the name of the station?”
“The Myrtle Maud” Annie Christopher answered with a smile “some of the locals have called her Mad Maud due to some of her previous occupants, she’s about one hundred years old plenty life left in her, she’s about an hours 1G flight from here just outside the outer ring of Gulf Breeze Five. She was upgraded with heavier armour a few years ago due to increased micro meteor impacts not due to any other issue.”
“We’ll be assigning a Castrum-class DropShip to the system to act as a guard ship for her if anyone did think about causing issues, along with a marine force.” Victor said wondering if micro-meteor impacts were all they’d have to worry about. With an entire station for their use they could use it as a training base, combining operations on Swartklip, Gulf Breeze and the SLS Indianapolis to create an SLDF hub out here. It would take some convincing with command and the council be he was sure he could sell it.
“They’ll be welcome visitors” Annie Christopher said without hesitation knowing that the additional personnel working through the system would bring even more revenue into the system. Victor Focht turned back towards the screen wall and looked at the Indianapolis he’d come to see the ship to its new assignment and to hopefully buy a new station. It looked like he’d somehow gotten two stations and was well on his way to building a new Training Hub in Lyran space.
Capellan Confederation Re-organisation
Victoria, Victoria Commonality
Capellan Confederation
22nd September 3114
The Capellan Confederation add several more worlds to their periphery region recolonizing several worlds abandoned over the years and resetablishing contact with worlds that had simply be left to fend for themselves. Not all the worlds peacefully accept Capellan rule again but few have a choice when faced against the military forces of the CCAF. The Capellan Confederation also reorganise their internal workings with the world of Victoria re-established as a Commonality Capital splitting world from the Andurien Commonality and in a deal with the Taurian Concordat the Capellan Confedration take over the systems of Mendham, Robstart and Horsham in exchange for resources, enough BattleMechs to equip an entire regiment and three Shoung Bi Shou-class Corvettes.
The Capellans moving further into the Taurian sphere of influence focuses the Taurians on House Davion instead of the nation continuously watching for further Clan Nova Cat intrusions. The WarShips also give the nations additional security to a nation that has spend vast resources on attempting to build such vessels themselves and been knocked down each time by external threats, while the regiment of Mechs allows them to form three additional Taurian Hussar combined-arms regiments strengthening two of their regional forces.
Chaos Irregulars Basecamp
Molokai, District of Bowang
Free Worlds League
23rd September 3114
The basecamp of the Chaos Irregulars on Molokai was a quiet place when Naomi Wrangler arrived which was quite strange, the world of Molokai was deep inside the Free Worlds League but normally mercenary bases were loud places here everything appeared to be quite subdued, the Chaos Irregulars were just going around their day to day business. Her vehicle was challenged at the gate by some infantry troopers and she was directed to the visitor’s car park beside the command building. The building itself looked ancient and probably had been on the planet since humans colonized Molokai. She was again pleased when she was challenged by more of the Chaos Irregulars infantry at the entrance to the building, when it was confirmed she was expected she was given a visitor pass and directed into the reception area. While they were not loud or typical of mercenary commands she’d encountered, her own Thunder Road included, but they were at least professional.
Inside in stark contrast to the outside she found the reception to be a well set out modern office, which had obviously been renovated into the old building at some point she doubted it had been done by the Irregulars and she found it to be a shame considering the history of the building something more traditional would be better, regardless as she entered the young man at the desk rose with a smile he was well dressed in a white shirt and blue tie. Given what she’d seen of the Irregulars military uniform she assumed that this was a local civilian hire the Irregulars had made. It was the nature of the mercenary life each place commands went they tended to hire a couple of dozen civilians to assist with administration, help keep the base clean and about a hundred different tasks that the mercenaries just didn’t have the personnel for. “Good morning Lt Colonel Wrangler” the man said he’d obviously been made aware of her arrival “I have made Colonel Peregrine-Simpson aware of your arrival she is currently inspecting an issue we’ve found with one of the BattleMechs. She should be ready for your appointment soon.” He explained.
“I’m actually here to see Colonel Chowla” she explained the man looked surprised “I believe my appointment with Colonel Simpson is later, I arrived early for a personal visit.” She said since seeing Jake Chowla on Bowang Wrangler had been worried about him and decided to check in on the grieving co-leader of the Chaos Irregulars.
“Of course, my apologies Lt Colonel” the young man said “at present Jake is… not in the office”
“I know” Wrangler added “Colonel Simpson made me aware of his condition, I’ll see him in his quarters.” She explained the receptionist looked surprised but quickly checked the permissions and saw she had been cleared.
“Of course his room is on the third floor fourth room on the right, I will make Colonel Simpson aware you have arrived.”
“Thank you” she said spying a jug of water on the desk “may I borrow that?” She asked the man looked at the jug then back at Wrangler before picking it up and handing it over.
“Of course, I’ll just fetch you a pair of glasses” he said turning around opening a cupboard by the time he’d turned back towards where Wrangler had been with the glasses she was gone.
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The third floor almost felt like a hotel instead of a military base with several rooms set out either side of the main stairwell and lifts. Naomi Wrangler reached Jocoam Chowla’s room and knocked after a few moments without an answer she knocked again and then a third time “Jake!” She called out trying to get his attention. Towards the end of the corridor another member of the Irregulars came out of their room to head to their duties. Instead of causing any further scene Naomi Wrangler reached into her jacket pocket and produced a magnetic pass flicking it over the lock on the right side of the door. The magnetic lock flicked off and the door popped open.
Entering the room Naomi heard the gingle and chink of several cans and bottles hitting each other as she pushed the door open. Jake Chowla’s personal quarters were a mess even in the darkness of the room she could see dozens of bottles and cans laying on the floor. Sprawled on the bed still wearing his kaki coloured work overalls laid Colonel Jocoam Chowla a bottle of local wine propped up on the pillow beside him. “Wakey, Wakey! Colonel, rise and shine it’s time to go to work!” She shouted but he didn’t move. “Jake, get up!” She shouted using his name this time he moved when she spoke but still remained crashed out on the bed. “You’ll thank me later” she said raising the jug of water and in one fluid motion emptying the iced cold water over the sleeping man.
The reaction to being hit by the cold water was immediate and as Naomi had expected violent Jake leapt from the bed the wine bottle suddenly in his hand. Naomi didn’t wait instead she grabbed his incoming arm and used his drunken momentum against him ducking as she flipped him over her shoulder. Jocoam Chowla flew over her shoulder and slammed fully into the bottles and cans that littered the floor with an audible crash. Within a moment of the crash the Irregular that Naomi had seen before was at the door his hand on his sidearm. “Move on soldier, nothing to see here” Naomi said looking up at him flashing her visitor pass as she grabbed Jake’s arm and dragged the hulk of a man to the bathroom.
Within a moment Jocoam Chowla was laying in the shower under a constant stream of water. “Wake up Jake! Time to do some work.” She said to him even though he wasn’t looking at him.
“Not funny Aletha” he mumbled under his breath.
“I’m not your wife Jake” Naomi Wrangler said sorrowfully knowing the loss he felt, she’d lost her mother three years before to pneumonia she, and her father, still felt her loss today. “I’m sorry” she said refering to his loss not the wake up call. She’d seen her father go through bouts of this since their collective loss. “It’s Naomi Wrangler, from Bowang, I came here looking to see if you wanted a job?”
“Chaos Irregulars are out of the market of doing other ******** work.” Jake cursed looking at her.
“You need to get back to work Colonel, it’s the only way.”
“I don’t need to do anything!” He snapped “I don’t need to do anything for anyone every again!” She said his anger boiling over.
“Yes you do” another voice said from behind Naomi, she turned to see the other Co-Commander of the Chaos Irregulars Colonel Ariel Peregrine-Simpson. She was close to Jake’s age she had a slightly lighter skin tone and a far lighter build. “We need you Jake” she said looking down at the man who still laid in the shower “and the Irregulars need the work” she said addressing Wrangler “I can send a battalion to support your efforts Colonel Wrangler, we’ll keep our other battalion here for refit and continued training.”
“I believe my Thunder Road will welcome your presence.” She said reaching over switching off the shower. “Colonel Chowla, ready for work?” Naomi said reaching down to haul him up.
“He will be, I’ll give you a hand?” Ariel suggested
“Agreed, I’m sure the first of many ventures.” She said as the two women pulled the soaked Jocoam Chowla out of the shower. This was far from being the solution to his problems but an important first step. While the contract with The Thunder Road would get the Irregulars back on the market and back to work.
Pirate Raid
Whittington, Periphery
30th September 3114
“What on earth have you done to that UrbanMech?” Schuyler McCoy asked standing in the Mechbay looking up at the thirty ton BattleMech, much maligned across the known human sphere the UrbanMech was horribly slow for a light BattleMech but what it lacked in speed it made up in Mech killing firepower often carrying an assault autocannon. This particular BattleMech however looked a lot different unlike the stubby arms of a standard UrbanMech this one’s arms extended at least half way down its barrel like torso with a pair of lasers extending out of the end. Out of the torso jutted two boxy rocket launchers which extended above the shoulders while two more lasers extended from the lower chest.
“Pieter’s autocannon was destroyed so we replaced it with a new weapons suite. Four medium lasers, two light particle cannons and two rocket launchers. It gives it a little better weapons coverage and it looks visibly different.” Matthew Yingling the McCoy’s Malcontents head technician explained.
“It’s a dramatic change it looks almost like you were trying to recreate something…” he suggested thinking of a particularly famous and heavier BattleMech.
“Maybe a little bit, it was a suggestion from our newest tech.” He said just as Amanda Cavalcanti appeared from behind the UrbanMech on the access gantry, the captured MechWarrior had been working for the unit over the last month or so and from all of Yingling’s accounts she’d fit in well with the techs. McCoy waved at her to come down.
After a few minutes she was stood beside him she was covered in grease and dust but he could see that since she had come to Whittington she’d cut her hair shorter so it only reached her shoulders and she’d coloured it a darker red which in McCoy’s opion suited her. “Any explaination?”
“The autocannon was damaged beyond repair and you didn’t have anything spare, we’d have only gotten another autocannon by ripping it off one of your historical Mechs which I thought we were supposed to be restoring not ripping apart?”
“And the appearance?”
“Well at range it could scare someone who doesn’t know better.” Amanda suggested “given the ECM suite you put on my old Ebony Snake could hide it from sensors. You could put this thing at long range with an enemy, shield it with ECM and give them a scare.” She said explaining thinking behind it.
“And when they close and we don’t have a Mad Cat?”
“Well it can fight better too, the PPCs give better range and the mediums are a better back up every day of the week than the small laser the others have.” She argued McCoy looked up at the Mech and shook his head.
“An UrbanMech pretending to be a Mad Cat” he smirked “I’ve heard of crazy things but this possibly takes the biscuit.” Suddenly an alarm cut off their conversation and McCoy’s communicator bleeped. “What is it?”
“We’ve got an incoming Leopard DropShip they’ll arrive tomorrow.” The communications officer reported.
“We’ll be ready” he said turning to Amanda “you’d fight with that on the field?” He asked looking at the weird UrbanMech.
“Yes”
“And you’d fight with us?” He asked they were officially a pirate unit, they would in the future raid other worlds for supplies but Schuyler McCoy hoped they’d showed her over the last few months they weren’t bad people.
“Yes” Amanda answered again she didn’t agree with stealing supplies from others but the world of Whittington was alone in the universe and they needed to gather resources any way they could, and she had seen the good in these people.
“Then your fighting tomorrow, your Ebony Snake is repaired and ready for a fight. It’s time to defend your new home.”
The Indianapolis-class is from the below link
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/aerospace/indianapolis-class-heavy-cruiser/msg164394/#msg164394 (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/aerospace/indianapolis-class-heavy-cruiser/msg164394/#msg164394)
I'll post the customized UrbanMech and new model of the Ebony Snake in the next day or so.
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McCoy's Malcontents Mechs at this thread
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/battlemechs/mechs-of-mccoy-s-malcontents/new/#new (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/battlemechs/mechs-of-mccoy-s-malcontents/new/#new)
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That's awesome update! I love Naomi technique of getting someone up in the morning. ;D
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The Indianapolis-class is from the below link
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/aerospace/indianapolis-class-heavy-cruiser/msg164394/#msg164394 (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/aerospace/indianapolis-class-heavy-cruiser/msg164394/#msg164394)
I thought she looked familiar...
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I thought she looked familiar...
Its been a while since I borrowed one
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Its been a while since I borrowed one
It's been even longer since I posted anything worth borrowing
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It's been even longer since I posted anything worth borrowing
We all get times like that I've had the indiana in mind for ages but did not know what I was going to do with it a deep space patrol/training ship seemed to work
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Good update DC.
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It's been even longer since I posted anything worth borrowing
I've been combing throught your web-based Field Manual. Do you think you will update your South Dakota Class Battleship (https://battletechfanon.fandom.com/wiki/South_Dakota_(Battleship))? She using HMA i think BV1. Very interesting ship.
Another fine addition to ATwT's little fleet of ships. ;)
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I've been combing throught your web-based Field Manual. Do you think you will update your South Dakota Class Battleship (https://battletechfanon.fandom.com/wiki/South_Dakota_(Battleship))? She using HMA i think BV1. Very interesting ship.
Another fine addition to ATwT's little fleet of ships. ;)
Define "update?"
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Define "update?"
I tried using MegaMekLab to update it. I think your used HMA, which i think was Battle Value 1, i tried plugging in South Dakota but some things were being entered didn't want to work. :P It may have been me.
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I've been combing throught your web-based Field Manual. Do you think you will update your South Dakota Class Battleship (https://battletechfanon.fandom.com/wiki/South_Dakota_(Battleship))? She using HMA i think BV1. Very interesting ship.
Another fine addition to ATwT's little fleet of ships. ;)
I haven't borrowed that one though I might...
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I tried using MegaMekLab to update it. I think your used HMA, which i think was Battle Value 1, i tried plugging in South Dakota but some things were being entered didn't want to work. :P It may have been me.
I don't have MegaMekLab, and to be honest, my PC is starting to show its age. Looking to upgrade come the January sales.
Until then, she is what she is.
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Wonder if a few clan Tripods might make a scene or two...
TT
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Wonder if a few clan Tripods might make a scene or two...
TT
Bad Truetanker Bad
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Excellent stuff as always!
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Time for a new bit with some news from the Raven Alliance - from Vition2
Hope you enjoy both our contributions
Pirate Raid
Whittington, Periphery
1st October 3114
With such a short period to prepare the McCoy’s Malcontents only had the nine active BattleMechs prepared for combat. Schuyler McCoy’s command lance had engaged the Marian forces once already taking out two enemy BattleMechs, an entire platoon of armoured vehicles and several Battle Armoured troopers before being forced to disengage. Now they were cycling around behind the enemy forces to cut off their retreat while the UrbanMech lance augmented by Amanda Cavalcanti’s repaired Ebony Snake stood in the enemies’ way. She’d positioned her ultralight BattleMech out of sight along with the three-regular looking UrbanMechs while Pieter Von Cleef took centre stage in his Mad Cat inspired UrbanMech. The strange looking Mech shrouded by Amanda’s ECM suite made the enemy forces pause at long range long enough for Schuyler McCoy’s forces to catch and engage the raiders. Now the UrbanMech lance was approaching their targets and engaging the enemy forces Pieter opened fire with both his rocket launchers and particle cannons revealing his UrbanMech’s firepower at range but Amanda held fire her ultralight only had the two rocket launchers, a sword and the handheld held triple machine gun. Instead she watched as Pieter’s firepower rippled over a Marian Hegemony Cataphract BattleMech at seventy tons the Mech weathered the hits and took both particle cannons then a pair of laser shots without flinching. The seventy-ton BattleMech twisted its torso to face them and opened fire with its arm mounted ultra autocannon which tore into Pieter’s BattleMech. Fortunately, while UrbanMechs were slow they were well armoured and Pieter didn’t miss a step as he marched forwards. The Cataphract opened fire again this time turning to face them fully engaging with its LB-class autocannon and lasers as well, unfortunately for the pilot he thought he was better than he was and tried to engage multiple targets at once. The autocannon fired cluster ammunition at the Malcontents Mechs causing light damage while of the four lasers fired only one hit one of the four UrbanMechs each of which was shrouded by Amanda’s ECM suite.
The response from the UrbanMech lance was devastating three autocannons erupted into fire adding their firepower to Pieter’s particle cannons and Amanda’s rockets. Amanda was glad to see her rockets mostly hit their target while one of Pieter’s particle cannons and both lasers also connected with the larger Mech. Two of the three autocannons found their mark and explosive shells tore across their chassis causing multiple small explosions along the way. The MechWarrior tried to maintain his balance but it was clear to see that his Mech needed to retreat and was outmatched by the entire lance of light Mechs. An assault Mech may have been able to stand but not a single Cataphract as the Mech toppled Pieter hit it again with both particle cannons as it fell causing more damage as the large Mech slammed into the ground ripping up the Wittington grass. Running in past the UrbanMechs Amanda shot the Mech with her triple machine gun carried weapon as she closed before dropping it as she got to point blank range. At this close range she struck the downed Mech with her Ebony Snake’s sword she struck down with the weapon cutting into the Cataphract’s back as the three other UrbanMechs pounded the Mech again with several heavy autocannon blasts which shredded several of the enemy Mech’s actuators causing further issues for the downed warrior.
The fallen Marian MechWarrior must have known the game was up. As he signaled to them his surrender and powered down the Cataphract before something else went wrong and the BattleMech suffered a catastrophic failure. Turning her Mech around Amanda picked up the machine gun weapon and scanned the area sighting a group of Ravager Battle Armour units. She ran towards them spraying her targets with machine gun fire. Despite her Ultralight Mech’s small frame she still towered over the Battle Armoured troopers and a constant stream of machine gun fire, combined with the approaching UrbanMechs was enough to cause these troopers to surrender along with their fallen Cataphract comrade. Amanda loved being back in her BattleMech, despite only being able to contribute small amounts, she was a MechWarrior again. The surrender of the three Ravager troopers turned out to be the last part of the battle on Wittington one more Mech, the Marian’s heaviest, a Highlander raised its arms in surrender following the dispatching of its comrades and with that it was over. The Highlander, the remains of seven other Mechs, three intact Ravager Battle Armour suits and enough to rebuild another one or two, along with half a dozen light vehicles made for a decent haul for the Malcontents. The Marian DropShip boosted back towards orbit on hearing of the fall of their ground forces leaving their people to their fate. The Malcontents threw the lot of the survivors into the stockade to allow them to think about their failures Schuyler McCoy told Amanda that he might allow them to join his ranks like she had but they’d have to earn their place within the unit just as she had.
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Hours later Amanda Cavalcanti relaxed in the small quarters she’d been given in the manor. The room was little more than a box with a single bed against the left side wall a small bedside table and a chair. It small and basic but it was, unlike the shared quarters she’d had when she was a tech, exclusively hers and when she was inside, she could shut the door and be herself. After the battle she’d retreated to the showers then straight to her quarters to rest up, dressing only in a white tank top and ripped off shorts she laid out on top of her bed as there was a knock on the door.
“Come in” she called when the door did not immediately open. The door slowly opened and in stepped Schuyler McCoy he was dressed in a simple olive drab jumpsuit his short blonde hair bouncing slightly. From his appearance she could tell he’d also taken a shower and he’d taken time to tidy up his one vanity his hair. In his hand he held a refillable bottle which was no doubt filled with some sort of energy drink.
“You did well today” he said remaining at the door
“Thank you, it was nice to be back in the saddle I’m glad I had the opportunity to defend my new home.”
“We won’t always defend places; my unit have taken responsibility for this world but we also are on the look out to make a profit. If that means we have to break some heads and take someone else stuff we will.” He warned her she silently nodded “you think you’re up for that?”
“I won’t kill innocents.” She warned him “I’ll draw a line under that and if I witness it, I.. don’t know if I could stay in the unit.” She said making her point clear “but taking what we need, I think I can do, life isn’t exactly easy out here and we’d be helping the people here.”
“We would, I won’t leave another person to die due to us taking things from them, but we will do what we need to when people resist our attempts to take from them. For those who don’t resist and don’t interfere I’ll try to promise we won’t kill anyone who doesn’t need to be killed.
“I’ll hold you to that.” She promised him
“Good, now to business” he said taking a drink from the bottle smirking “the capture of the Highlander adds a nice option to our next move. I’m keeping the Archer and not surprisingly Morgan is keeping his Blackjack, it’s an OmniMech after all, so I’m giving the Highlander to Tom.” He said naming a couple of the other members of his command lance. “After your little modification work on his UrbanMech Pieter has decided he is keeping his Mech so I’m giving Faris Tom’s old Vindicator.” He said naming another member of the unit she’d piloted one of the autocannon UrbanMechs that had forced the Cataphract pilot to surrender. “Now I don’t think you’re the type to want a UrbanMech as your ride?” After a moment’s thought Amanda shook her head, she’d rather keep a Mech half its weight than pilot a walking tincan like an UrbanMech. “I didn’t think so, instead I’ve ordered the Techs to bring online the old Griffin, its not perfect, not by a long shot a lot of its gear is primitive tech but with what we captured today you and the Techs might be able to do something with it?” He asked she nodded her agreement. “Good, I’ll release it to you, you’ll still be attached to the UrbanMechs for now, you’re not getting out of that assignment just yet, I’m going to make sure that Matt sinks an ECM into the Griffin so you can still shield that monstrosity of an UrbanMech that Pieter is piloting.”
“I understand, their mostly good folks” she said
“Most of the unit are, just ignore Hector and you’ll be fine” he warned her “I’ll find someone to pilot your Ebony Snake and you can mentor them in the Griffin. I want them to be able to take over from you once you move up.”
“I can do that, it’s a good little Mech.”
“It’s not bad, but now you’re in something a lot bigger, learn your new Mech’s limitations don’t think you can run around with it like the Snake understood?” He asked she nodded again as he swiped another drink from his bottle. “Very good” he said giving her the once over with his eyes “as you were” he said after a moment of lingering then the realization he’d been caught. “Drink plenty fluids the come down after combat can be tough.” He warned Amanda reached over to the table and grabbed her own bottle.
“Well ahead of you, Captain” she said drinking a little seeing his uncomfortable look on his face at the rank “Duke?” She asked given his position on the world following his father’s actions in the past in taking up the challenge to defend the world, giving him the title seemed to make Schyler McCoy look queasy “boss?” she asked quickly moving on he nodded “I won’t let you down.”
“I’m glad to hear it, with the Highlander and Griffin added to our ranks we’re going to be running around with a lot more firepower and capabilities so we’ll have to all get used to working together in a different way.” He explained “I haven’t even thought about what we’re going to do with the Ravagers or vehicles yet, I guess some of the locals might want an adventurous future… we’ll see. For now, we’ll keep them here and we can roll them out when we’ve got people up to the task.”
“The Cemetery Wind held a national contest, fitness and mental agility assessed to see who was up for the task. But they had the support of the planetary government.” She said suggesting how she ended up with her old unit.
“Nothing here to support us. Just a bunch of little settlements that don’t have the money to pay us and instead turn over food and drink as payment.” He said while his unit were classed as a pirate unit beyond this planet most people considered them to be their guardians on planet as the only armed force. “I’m not sure how many of them will want to turn over their sons and daughters but we’ll see.”
“You could force it; you have the firepower.” She suggested “or maybe form a planetary defence force… Duke” she suggested smirking when she saw him squirm under the title. Schyler stood there for a moment then left without another word obviously having plenty to think about. Amanda didn’t exactly know what she thought of her new commander, she missed her friends in Cemetery Wind but also felt like she could make an impact here.
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Regardless how Schyler felt Amanda couldn’t wait until the morning when she headed down to the Mechbay to see her “new” Griffin even the horrible rainstorm outside would not dash her hopes for a good day. She’d spend a good portion reading up on the medium Mech learning what it was capable she knew most of the basics fifty-five tons, capable of running nearly one hundred miles per hour and jumping one hundred and eighty metres. Primarily they were armed with particle cannons and missiles good solid weapons.
When she’d arrived in the Mech hanger under Schyler’s house she noticed the Mech seemed to have more missile pods than she’d expected but then it was a rebuilt Mech it would likely be armed with what the techs had available she’d adapt. Climbing aboard the BattleMech she half crawled into the cramped blocky cockpit, as Schyler had said this was a primitive Mech, she’d have to get used to some differences. Sitting in the command chair she began powering up the BattleMech feeling the fusion engine begin to pur under her. Drawing her neuralhelmet over her head once she was strapped in, she heard the familiar start up voice. Technicians preferred transferring a pilot’s neuralhelmet from one Mech to another to help the pilot connect with the machine quicker and more smoothly, starting from scratch tended to take hours.
“Griffin G-R-F-1-A online, fusion engine online, particle cannon online, small laser online, small laser online, machine gun online, rocket launcher ten-pack loaded, rocket launcher ten pack loaded, Guardian Electronic Counter Measure Suite active.” The voice said in rapid succession giving her a rundown of her connected weapons she’d had the same on the Ebony Snake but it was a far shorter list on the fifteen-ton BattleMech. The Griffin also seemed to be over gunned for what she’d expected glancing at her control board she pressed through the menus which were familiar but slower than most Mechs she stopped when she got to the stats of her BattleMech.
“Sixty tons…” she whispered looking at the stats that was wrong she thought the Griffin was five tons lighter “sixty-four mph?” She thought that can’t be right. She tabbed through several more menus until she got to the Mech’s datasheet. Maxwell Manufacturing Inc. Procyon, Date of construction November 2nd 2466… She read the words and numbers and suddenly understood her Mech was nearly five hundred years old, one of the first Griffins to be constructed, she was inside an antique. Most MechWarriors who inherited an older BattleMech received a machine that was older than them but few on the battlefield would be as old as this one. The techs had refitted the old weapons and armour but it still had an ancient chassis, engine, cockpit and a jury-rigged gyro which was heavier than the standard models. “Well, we’re going to have fun.” She said seeing the light opposite her bay go green clearing her way to leave the Mechbay. Amanda took control of the Griffin and stepped it clear of the cradle that held it in position. The Mech took a couple of heavy steps forward before she pivoted it to the right and walked it out of the bay and into the rainstorm that was lashing the building. She felt and heard the rain and wind batter her BattleMech but the sixty-ton machine stood firm. Even though they’d only walked a few steps together Amanda felt she was ready for the next challenge that was thrown her way.
High Council Chambers
Dante, Raven Alliance
3rd October, 3114
Despite the Raven Alliance’s capital being housed on Alpheratz the Snow Ravens held Dante exclusively for their own operations. Here unlike Alpheratz, which still held many of its old prejudices, a Snow Raven could walk down the street without any concern all of the population were completely indoctrinated into the Snow Raven belief system. The change on Alpheratz and across the Raven Alliance would come it would just take a little more time and convincing for now Dante was the Raven capital and held all their command and coordination centres.
Deep within one of these command centres held a the Clan Council’s grand hall designed along the lines of all the other Clan Council chambers with the Clan’s unique brand of angular architecture with every surface seemingly moving at an angle to the other the room was a theatre capable of holding several hundred of the Snow Raven’s Bloodnamed warriors, the elite leaders of the Clan, and had enough holographic and audio technology to keep everyone informed regardless of where they were seated in the chamber.
In the centre of the room the primary holo table, which was several metres wide squared, showed the typical Raven tactical grid for space combat blown up to a size that allowed the text displayed to be read from anywhere in the room. Centrally located on the displayed image is a small cluster of mid-sized white dots a few smaller ones can be seen planetward, with trajectories to intercept the white dots, these glow a brilliant golden in color. As time progresses a smaller group of white dots emerge from the cluster to intercept the golden ones. As the two groups merge a couple golden dots wink out, but most of the white ones also disappear, with only a few remaining continuing their trajectories. The remaining gold dots slow and merge with the central cluster shortly before the feed stops.
Watch Commander Riven steps to the front of the gathered High Alliance Military Council. “The captain of the RAS Silver Star ejected a small transceiver towards the end of this raid in Millary. Which we recovered a couple days ago after failing to receive progress reports on the shipment. As some of you may know, the convoy included a number finished products we were trading to the Nova Cats for a large amount of raw materials. Their recent conflict with the Suns showing some strain on certain parts of their economy, which we specialize in.”
He went on to explain that the golden color was designated as Federated Suns on the Sphere Wide IFF code database. While somehow the audio was jammed the transceiver included a description of the assaulting force which included an Arondight-class DropShip, along with a number of other aerospace fighters and DropShips iconic to the Suns’ military. Then he stepped back to allow Khan Vir Sukhanov to lead the rest of the meeting.
The Khan stepped forward, those who knew him well can see the strain in his features, though he puts on a well composed front, “This is among our worst-case scenarios, the Federated Suns has many more resources than the Combine. Though the Suns have benefited greatly from our scouring of their periphery pirates, yet they still seek to test us.” Grumbles of agreement come from the 20 current members of the Raven Alliance’s High Military Council.
“We cannot let this attack go without response!” Gamma Galaxy Commander Adrian Chand exclaimed, the elemental's voice booming across the chamber.
The lithe form of Alessa Alpheratz, the Long Road’s GalCom, rises, “Our response must be measured, we can’t treat them like the Dragons, the Suns have fewer internal issues, and greater resources. Even their naval forces can rival our own.”
Discussions continue for the next few hours, the normal bloodhouse politicking significantly decreased emphasizing the seriousness of the situation, before Khan Sukhanov calls for its end in order to mull over many of the options brought up. Only two solid goals came from the council: Millray must be secured, and the Federated Suns must be punished.
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The next evening, the Khan meets with the Watch Commander, the Dante sunset streaming into the glass crete windows.
“Riven, I have decided on a course of action, but much of it requires a bit of... delicacy. We will not be able to manage this conflict truly alone, so I’ll need you to make sure a couple of messages get to the right people.” The Khan began.
“I will do my best,” the masked Watch Commander replied.
“There are three components to this, first, we’ll need to make the Combine aware of the situation, we should use our Nexus Ri connection for this. The Nova Cats should be pretty straightforward to convince, the supplies in that convoy were going to shore up some of their economic deficits, and we suspect that may put them behind schedule by a year, maybe more.”
“The last component...” A knock occurs at the door, and Vir’s mouth makes a small smile, “Perfect timing... Enter!”
Galaxy Commander Long Roads enters, “Khan Sukhanov, you requested me?”
The Khan nods, “Yes, Alessa, we have need of you and your galaxy. You will work with Riven in order to...” The three of them work together on their plans late into the night.
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A bit more than a week later, the Hazelhurst PDZ director gives a large press release in which a short statement acknowledging the attack and surreptitiously apologizing for it is buried within, but also relating the recent conflict with the Nova Cats. No overtures are made directly to the Alliance. Within the Alliance, a number of units begin either redeploying or preparing for a redeployment.
Border Conflict
Federated Suns
8th October 3114
Despite having one of the best equipped militaries in the Inner Sphere after months of continuous combat on multiple fronts were causing visible cracks in the Federated Suns defences. On every march border the Federated Suns came under attack as the Draconis Combine pushed deep into the Draconis March attacking Hoff, Bettendorf, Franklin, Lucerne and Rochester shattering elements of the First Robinson Rangers and First New Ivaarsen Chasseurs with additional raids on New Ivaarsen and Sakhara V intended on tying up defenders but actually netting the Draconis Combine Sakhara as DCMS forces overwhelm the training academy and the militia supporting it. In the New Ivaarsen system only the presence of the FSS Ian Davion repulses the DCMS raiding force with the Mercury-class Battleship shattering the invading forces’ DCS Tsukushi, a Tatsumaki II-class Destroyer, driving the DCMS forces from the system. While it is unlikely the DCMS could hold all of these worlds for an extended period of time this sailent provides the DCMS with a temporary and somewhat tenous threat against the system of Robinson.
On the Periphery borders of the Crucis March Clan Nova Cat continue to cause issues with the defences of the Crucis March forcing their way into the Ebro and Memphis systems again strengthening their strike corridor into the Federated Suns. The AFFS strike back against the Clan retaking the systems of Minette, Molino, Maram, Sodertalke, Olindo and Adelson opening a second front against the Nova Cats and essentially shattering the Clan’s Zeta Galaxy which had personnel in each system targeted. With only the Forty-ninth Nova Cat Roar Cluster surviving intact as it retreated from the Maram system Nova Cat command orders Zeta Galaxy once again stricken from the rolls and the Cluster rolled into Sigma Galaxy. As a further insult to the Clan Federated Suns news sources report that the former New Avalon embassy occupied by Clan Nova Cat has been burned to the ground during a protest by Avalon City residence. The base has not been occupied for several years following tensions between Clan Nova Cat and the Federated Suns.
During the hostilities on their other borders the Capellan Confederation and Taurian Concordat combine forces and attack the systems of Shaunavon, Wrentham, Flintoff and Ridgebrook. In each case the Capellans and Taurians find the defences in the Capellan March of the Federated Suns unprepared after years of peace. On Kathil Duchess Kym Hasek is put under pressure by March Dukes to explain why she has supported other parts of the Federated Suns over her own March. With internal issues now also boiling over inside the Suns it ends a bad month for the Federated Suns.
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Trial of Possession
Zosma, Wolf Empire
18th October 3114
The Star League Defence Force had returned in force to Zosma intent on wresling control of the world from Clan Wolf. Instead of charging into combat the SLDF had challenged the Wolves defending the world to a Trial of Possession, using the Clan honour system against them, the Nineteenth Wolf BattleMech Cluster had agreed to the Trial and the Clan rite of Safcon allowing the SLDF to make their way safely to the planet’s surface. The veteran Fourth Knights of the Sphere Regimental Brigade supported by the Second Hessen Irregulars Mercenary regiment had landed on the world supported by three SLDF WarShips which faced off against two Wolf vessels in a stand off. With the Trial of Possession agreed the WarShips would stand guard but were forbidden from getting involved in the battle for the planet.
Sitting in the cockpit of his Shirke OmniMech Major Morgan Christifori paced the other BattleMech in the Trial force was they waded their way through an untamed grass field heading towards the Wolf force. Due to his knowledge of Clan practices General Hadassah Sadira had given him a position on the force and he did not plan on letting her or his new unit down.
As they entered weapons range challenges were being shouted across both lines as Wolves and SLDF warriors picked their targets. Following the challenges weapons fire followed almost immediately with the two lines of forces connected by autocannon salvos, flights of missiles, man-made lightning of particle cannons and lasers. Immediately several Mechs on both sides took heavy damage but Morgan walked through the fire without a scratch, without a single challenger, as he walked forwards a Warwolf stepped into his path. The seventy-five-ton OmniMech was new to the Wolf Touman, twenty tons lighter than his Mech and slightly faster it carried significant firepower “I am Star Captain Terrence Kerensky of Clan Wolf, I challenge the MechWarrior of the stavag piloting the Shirke OmniMech to a Circle of Equals, may no other interfere in our battle.” He said
“I am Major Morgan Christifori, I won this Shirke in battle against the Jade Falcons in a battle of honour, I accepted your challenge Wolf.” Morgan transmitted in response as the two began their dance the rest of the battle continued around them with Mechs and their warriors dying on both sides but they were only background noise to the two duelling MechWarriors.
Morgan engaged his Shirke’s jump jets launching his ninety-five-ton Mech into the air. His jump was assisted by the Shirke’s partial wings which gave him superior control in flight allowing the Mech to glide further than the jump jets would carry him. He used the increased control and his Shirke’s advanced targeting computer to launch an ariel attack to hammer the Warwolf with his Hyper Assault Gauss Rifle which spat out metal slugs at supersonic speeds causing massive kinetic damage to the Warwolf’s torso and arm. The Wolf warrior returned fire with his weapons long range missiles, a particle cannon and laser. A BattleMech being his as it preformed a jumping maneuver could result in a fatal crash due to the sudden change in weight and balance from an enemy assault Morgan was braced for the attack but was glad to see the manmade lightning from the particle cannon sail past his Mech missing its mark. The laser burned up the inside of his Shirke’s left leg but didn’t penetrate the armour while the long-range missiles slammed into the Shirke’s left arm. Nothing critical Morgan thought as he rebalanced the machine coming into a landing touching his jump jets to slow the fall as he did. Ninety-five tons of man and machine landing on the ground was every “soft” but with the jump jets and wings assisting the Shirke landed with a thunderous thud flattening a patch of burning grass and throwing up sand into the air. The Shirke didn’t miss a beat running out of the thrown-up sand Mogan heard the ping of a lock on from his missiles and immediately fired the short-range missiles launching from the launcher situated above his Mech’s right wrist. As the smoke around him cleared Morgan ran into a volley of short-range missiles fired by the Warwolf pilot and then the following combination of lasers and pulse lasers which burned into the Shirke’s torso armour. Morgan glanced at his sensor display and saw the Warwolf standing off to his right-hand side twisting the Shirke’s torso he let rip with both large lasers mounted there not waiting to see the two green beams strike the enemy Mech Morgan brought the left arm HAG around and opened fire with another stream of fire hitting the enemy Mech all over.
The devastation wrought on the seventy-five-ton Mech was brutal with armour lost on almost every surface of the OmniMech Morgan thought he saw one of the lasers explode under the attack but couldn’t be certain. To his credit the Warwolf pilot did not loose his footing nor did he stop his assault attacking the Shirke with his particle cannon and a collection of lasers as the two Mechs continued to dance around each other. Unlike the missed aerial shot this time the particle cannon slammed into the Shirke’s torso burning away almost a ton of armour. Of the other lasers fired only one pulse laser hit striking the Shirke’s left leg causing nothing more than armour damage.
It took a lot to kill a ninety-five-ton OmniMech advancements of technology over the years had made it possible for Mechs to carry more armour while still carrying as much firepower as some small conventional armies. Continuing their dance, the two machines continued to trade blows the Warwolf hitting the Shirke with its missiles and laser combination while Morgan struck back with his own lasers, missiles and gauss rifle. Unless one of the MechWarriors landed a killing blow against the head of the enemy Mech it was a battle of attrition, which unfortunately for the Wolf warrior he couldn’t win, the Warwolf couldn’t take as many hits as the Shike could. Morgan intended on ensuring that exact outcome randomising his movements, cutting his jumps short and constantly tracking the lighter Mech in an attempt to throw off the Wolf pilots’ game which would cause a mistake and allow Morgan to capitalize.
Finally, after what seemed like hours but was actually only minutes the Wolf pilot made a mistake as the two approached each other it was a game of chicken which one would come off worse of. Turning to the right instead of the left to protect his lighter rear armour allowed Morgan to turn in on Warwolf. This put the two Mechs on an unavoidable collision course Morgan fired his short-range missiles at near point-blank range before clenching his Shirke’s hand actuator into a fist before the two Mechs collided in a sickening physical impact. The Shirke’s hand, arm and then shoulder slammed into the charging Warwolf knocking the seventy-five-ton machine off balance and then sprawling onto its back as Terrance Kerensky failed to control the Mech. Both the hand and short-range missile launcher had been ripped from the Shirke’s arm by the impact but other than armour damage Morgan’s Mech stood over the downed Warwolf. In the cockpit blowing warm air against his face in a vain attempt to cool down Morgan reached over and dumped the remaining short-ranged-missile ammo, he didn’t need to carry a bomb which he couldn’t use. As the Warwolf struggled to get back up Morgan stood square onto the Mech and fired his HAG again into the downed Mech before lashing out with a kick to knock the Mech down again. “Terrance Kerensky, surrender now!” Morgan ordered but the warrior continued to try and resist so Morgan hit the Mech again this time kicking one of the Mech’s arms as it tried to raise crushing the arm at the elbow joint causing seventy-five tons of Mech to fall down again. “Surrender and live or die. Final warning.” Morgan warned the downed Wolf warrior.
Several moments passed with the Warwolf prone and at the mercy of the Shirke until the MechWarrior wordlessly signaled his surrender shutting down his targeting systems and bringing the Mech to it’s idle setting it would be against the rules of war, and violate the Trial’s agreement, for anyone else to target the Mech. “Surrender accepted, Terrance Kerensky, I Morgan Christifori have defeated you in battle you and your Mech are taken as Isorla by the Star League Defence Force and you will serve as my bondsman until I see fit for you to return to the status of MechWarrior.” Morgan stated ending the Circle of Equals in Clan tradition it was the right of a victorious warrior to take the isorla, spoils of war, as they saw fit including the MechWarrior. It had happened to Morgan when he was taken by Clan Ghost Bear and now he was continuing this tradition.
After the battle which saw the SLDF recapture the world of Zosma from Clan Wolf and grant the Wolves safcon, to leave the world without attack, Morgan Christifori was summoned by General Hadassah Sadira who questioned his taking of a bondsman. Morgan had stated that he was not the first Star League warrior take take on a bondsman, pointing out that the current Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion did the same during the Clan War, and he likely would not be the last. While the General had not liked his reasoning believing he held onto his Ghost Bear traditions too closely she accepted his decision and placed Terrance Kerensky directly under his responsibility.
Combat Arena 5
Nexus Ri, Gladiator World
Star League Protectorate
24th October, 3114
Held officially by the Star League Protectorate Nexus Ri was really contested by the Star League, the Draconis Combine and Clan Snow Raven with few people on the world other than those directly involved in combat with the other factions or maintaining the machines for those battles. While described as a “Gladiator World” Nexus Ri was not the like the arenas on Solaris VII with the battles here conducted by military commands and following a strict regime of combat, although like those on Solaris battles on Nexus Ri were often recorded and distributed to entertainment networks. Territory on Nexus Ri often changed hands with each faction battling over abandoned towns, atmosphere purifiers, wind power plants and hydro electric dams. In a month a structure of area could have three separate owners but the objective was not for one side to prevail over the others like in a real war instead it was to allow all three nations involved to test their individual combat units against the other nation’s forces with the territory changing hands often being dependent on which regiments were cycling through the world.
In what started as a typical gladiatorial trial between a rough company of Draconis Combine gladiators and a similar number of Raven Alliance combatants, a particularly long duel occurs, as a pair of combatants square off, trading blows, insults, and evading others for nearly an hour before the Raven Alliance ‘mech finally succumbs to damage. After the hard-fought battle the Combine MechWarrior declares the Alliance warrior as her bondsman.
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:thumbsup: Its nice to see an update to your story!
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Excellent updates, and that was a major misstep with the Suns hitting a Raven Alliance convoy. Also whats this ultra-light? Sounds rather good :)
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Very nice!
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Excellent updates, and that was a major misstep with the Suns hitting a Raven Alliance convoy. Also whats this ultra-light? Sounds rather good :)
The Ebony Snake is on the following thread I've got the new UrbanMech and upgraded Griffin on there too and the custom Archer
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/battlemechs/mechs-of-mccoy-s-malcontents/new/#new (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/battlemechs/mechs-of-mccoy-s-malcontents/new/#new)
As for the Ravens Vition2 requested to add a story and is having fun with it
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The Ebony Snake is on the following thread I've got the new UrbanMech and upgraded Griffin on there too and the custom Archer
Where the "Timber Wolf" UrbanMech's record sheet. :D
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Needs some homeworld love...
But nice, so far... ^-^
TT
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Needs some homeworld love...
But nice, so far... ^-^
TT
I'll be heading back towards the Homeworlds at some point
Unity City News Network
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
2nd November 3114
“Good evening ladies and gentlemen, I am Walter O'Brian from Unity City News Network bringing you breaking news from the Eighteenth Whitting Conference here on Terra.” The male presenter said he appeared to be in his fifties with balding hair on the top of his head, greying hair on the sides and a grey mustache. For twenty years he had served the Unity City News and reported on the Star League Conferences. “In the last month the leaders of the Star League nations have discussed various issues varying from the current actions of the Star League Defence Force and the direction this Star League will take. Yesterday it was decided by the Star League member states that the SLDF will not be used to stop various member states coming into conflict with the council stating that the SLDF was formed to defend the Inner Sphere not act as a police force.” He said breaking the news which many people had been questioning for years. “It has also been decided that the SLDF will take full responsibility for the Milligan’s World Salient in the Draconis Combine with the worlds of Zaltousi, Milligan’s World and Quantraine all now falling under the Star League Protectorate Charter. The newly named Milligan’s World Prefecture will fall under Star League Protectorate control the same as the Kittery Prefecture.” He announced the change was a small one in the grand scheme of things but the additional worlds would bring many more citizens under Star League Protection. “Draconis Combine Mustered Society Forces will withdraw from these worlds over the next few weeks and redeploy along Raven Alliance borders to support SLDF operations.” He explained the changes the small salient of three worlds jutted into the Raven Alliance territory but for the most part they were peaceful with the Ravens over the border.
“Additionally, today the Star League Council announced two further measures. Firstly, a call by the Free Worlds League Leader Captain-General Joseph Marik to launch an Operation Bulldog style operation against Clan Wolf was rejected by the Council due to Clan threats threatening multiple borders the Star League Council members pointing out that many nations are being threatened. The SLDF have agreed to further support the Free Worlds League agreeing to build facilities on Keystone with a branch of the Royal Cosara Weaponries being built near the Earthwerks facility there and reconstruction of the Fort Meade Star League-era Castle Brian.” He explained while not completely federalized Cosara which was primarily based on Northwind was expanding with Star League support to build facilities across the Star League Protectorate Worlds bringing jobs and production to every corner of the growing nation.
“And lastly the most important announcement from this generation is that Magestix Ilsa Centrella of the Magistracy of Canopus has been made the new First Lord of the Star League Defence Force. Ilsa Centralla is the second member of her family after Chancellor Naomi Centrella to become the First Lord of the Star League however she is the first leader of a periphery state to lead the Star League since the Usurper took control from the Cameron Family. While there is no suggestion that Ilsa Centralla will attempt to follow such a path, assurances have been made by Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion that no Magistracy of Canopus forces will be allowed to set up inside the Star League Protectorate, Kittery Prefecture or Milligan’s World Prefecture.” The announcer reported having a periphery leader as leader of the Star League was huge news. “The First Black Watch Regimental Brigade along with several WarShips will be deployed to the Magistracy of Canopus as part of the First Lord’s new protection group. Due to this lengthy deployment these vessels and the ground forces will be permanently assigned to each other for the duration of this deployment. To further support these efforts the Star League Defence Force construction group supported by the Integrated Combat Services Group will be deployed to Gallis system in the Magistracy of Canopus to build an extensive support base for the Star League Defence Force. The Integrated Combat Services Group are a mercenary command that have been based on Caph for the last ten years and they will be leaving a small force there to continue to support Star League Engineering Services based there.”
Balmoral Castle Residence, Aberdeenshire
Scotland, Europe
Terra, Star League Protectorate
3rd November 3114
In the lush green and brown Scottish country side near the North East coast Prince Luther Davion walked the grounds of the home that his father’s party had been given control over for during their visit to Terra. Balmoral Castle had been a residence of the British Royal family since 1852 and had been rebuilt and modernized over the years to serve as a residence for the Cameron family. During the Star League-era Stefan Amaris had razed the Castle to the ground during his purge of all surviving members of the family. The surviving Winsor-Cameron family members had rebuilt the Castle and expanded the facilities to include a Mechbay capable of holding an entire battalion of Mechs to the east a runway capable of accepting military DropShips had been constructed on the massive grounds that were included with the Castle.
Luther liked being back on Terra following the attack on Terra the year before he had resided exclusively on New Avalon in and around the grounds of the Davion Royal Palace, this excursion to Terra had given the nineteen-year-old a little freedom. Walking across the stone covered grounds that were around the facility wearing simple denim jeans and a loose shirt despite it being winter in Scotland he entered the massive Mechbay past his father’s Templar III OmniMech and his command lance. The fifth Mech in the row of Mechs was his grandfather’s OmniMech the Clan built Dire Wolf OmniMech. Standing in front of it was his father First Prince Burton Davion, his mother Duchess Sterling Davion, his grandmother Duchess Danai Centrella-Davion and his grandfather Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion. Despite being eighty-four years old Victor Steiner-Davion was full of life and had taken to the role as leader of the Star League Protectorate in his stride during their month long stay on Terra his grandparents had visited with them at Balmoral but Victor’s thoughts and meetings included issues for across the Star League Protectorate and its Prefectures.
“Good afternoon” his mother Sterling said as he approached, it was barely after midday and after their late-night flight from Unity City he’d decided to sleep in a little.
“Good afternoon” he responded glancing up at Prometheus wondering why they were stood infront of the mighty one hundred-ton OmniMech. He’d spent his childhood watching his grandfather practice with the Dire Wolf on the ranges near the Davion Palace.
“We leave for New Avalon in a couple of days” his father said “but before we leave your grandfather wishes to present you with your Christmas present.” He said following Luther’s glance up at the Mech.
“Prometheus” Victor said despite being the shortest of the group and the oldest in the group at eighty-four years Victor’s voice carried the authority that Luther was used to over the years. Luther looked at his grandfather with a surprised look despite carrying Victor’s blood in him he had inherited many of his mother’s Clan genes as well as his height he towered over both his Grandfather and his father standing at more than six foot in height. “I’m too old to pilot her into combat again, too many fights already fought by this body.” He said
“Many victories won by the fist, and now many victories won by your mind.” His grandmother Danai said squeezing her husband’s arm despite only being seven years younger than Victor Luther was always struck by how young his grandmother looked, she looked like she was thirty years younger with her hair still holding onto some of its youthful colouring.
“Indeed, it is time for Prometheus to return home and serve the nation it served for many years.” Victor said “your father is retaining his Templar III, so Prometheus falls to you.” He explained Luther noted that Victor refused to use the name that his father had given the Templar III, Dragon’s Wrath, Victor had always understood the Draconis Combine and respected it more than Burton Davion.
“Thank you, I look forward to taking it through its paces the Sandhurst range is an impressive facility.” Luther answered he saw his grandfather’s surprise and a glower of anger from his father.
“As are the facilities on New Avalon, where you will finish your studies, as we have discussed you are coming home!” Burton thundered this was not the first time the two had discussed this already several times.
“I started my studies here…”
“And you’ll finish them at the NAIS.” Burton said finally turning away from him towards the Mech “it will be good to have Prometheus back on New Avalon, now thank your grandfather.”
“Thank you, I’ll do my best to take good care of her.” Luther said he knew how much the second love of Victor’s life both of his grandparents smiled at him but also looked concerned at their son and his attitude towards his son.
Clan Wolf Assaults
Free Worlds League
8th November 3114
As Inner Sphere leaders leave Terra the reason for the SLDF existing in this modern fractured era is highlighted as Clan Wolf assaults targets throughout the Free Worlds League identifying a weak spot in Free Worlds League defences the Wolves seize Helm, Tania Australis, Bedeque and Lancaster from the defenders deploying nearly a dozen previously unseen Cluster’s built using BattleMechs manufactured on worlds captured by the Wolves from the Inner Sphere. Each of these repurposed Inner Sphere designs have been refitted with Clan technology allowing them to hit harder than their previously design allowed. The WarShip MS Kolorev, the Eighth and Ninth Free Worlds Legionaries are destroyed in the fighting as are the Zodiac Phantoms and Raymond’s Hussars Mercenary commands.
The one failed assault for the Wolves is on Connaught where the Ninth Wolf Guards Cluster are essentially destroyed fighting against the SLDF. Star Captain Alaric Wolf takes command of the Cluster and leads the remains from the system as MechWarrior Alex Wolf leads a heroic rearguard action frustrating SLDF attempts to chase down the retreating Ninth in his Incubus BattleMech damaging dozens of the defenders Mechs and vehicles before finally being taken down. As a result of his efforts Wolf scientists ensure that despite him not holding a bloodname that his DNA sample is added to the genetic mix that makes up the next generation of Clan Wolf warriors. The remaining elements of the Ninth, three binaries retreat to Dieudonne where Star Colonel Alaric Wolf assumes full time command of the command and command of its rebuilding.
Troubles for the Free Worlds League continues as the Magistracy of Canopus, straight after their victory at the Star League conference, launch attacks on the District of Regulus. Officially this is in response to Free Worlds League attacks and pirate attacks which are believed to have originated in their territory. In the attacks the Magistracy not only search for raiders but also secure the systems of Chilung, Vikindu and Barlaston rolling back District of Regulus forces. Despite the Magistracy of Canopus officially searching for pirate forces they do not announce any convictions of pirates following the actions.
On Terra advisers of the various member states of the SLDF note that the last SLDF First Lord to take immediate actions against other states also held the name Centrella, Naomi Centrella when she led the Capellan Confederation, though there are no calls for sanctions against the Magistracy or the new First Lord.
Border fighting
New Oberon Confederation and Ferris Collective
22nd November 3114
Two formerly held Clan territories the New Oberon Confederation and Ferris Collective come into conflict on several worlds as the two jostles to hold territory abandoned by the Clans in the region known as The Barrens. On various worlds the two sides exchange fire using Mechs and vehicles they have salvaged from the various Clans and Inner Sphere states in the region. The fighting comes to a head as the two sides enage each other on the world of The Rock.
The Rock is officially independently held by the inhabitants of the world but the New Oberon Confederation and Ferris Collective also hold territory on the world. The inhabitants of The Rock retreat from their settlements into the world’s ancient fortress which the Clans had abandoned but once free The Rock’s inhabitants had spent much of their resources in refurbishing the facility. The Rock’s people watch as the two sides fight before intervening int the end driving the two sides apart and bringing peace again onto The Rock.
Earnest and Bosch Solicitors of Wasat
Downtown Wasat Prime, Wasat
Star League Protectorate
25th November 3114
“It’s a land grab by the Star League Defence Force pure and simple, we’ve been contracted by Earthwerks to oppose the move by Royal Cosara to build a facility on Keystone.” James McTeigue began within hours of the Whitting Conference announcement of SLDF movements on Keystone Earthwerks had contacted the local Earnest and Bosch firm on Keystone and lodged the complaint. “As far as Earthwerks are concerned if the Star League wishes to invest in Keystone then they should do so by working with Earthwerks instead of building their own facilities.” He said continuing with the Earthwerks complaint “While their argument will not concern the Star League Government much we believe that they may gain traction with the District of Marik’s government which is the tract we’re going to take with it. Our office on Keystone is taking point with this but we’ll be doing our bit to prise a much information out of the Star League government as we can.” He explained Earnest and Bosch was a multi-planetary law firm with offices on many worlds the offices on Wasat were the largest of the firm in the Star League Protectorate’s territories. “Now let’s get started Keystone’s argument is that there are plenty worlds in the Free Worlds League that the Star League could build on, plenty worlds that could use the jobs that Cosara are ready to provide and that if Cosara are not willing then maybe Keystone will.” He said allowing the threat to hang in the air for a moment. “So far they have stopped short of threatening to pull out of Keystone completely but the threat…” suddenly he was interrupted by the sound of a VTOL passing closely over the building, far closer than any aircraft normally passed almost like the aircraft was landing, or crashing, nearby several of the people in the room moved to look out the window. Opening the blinds, they saw a modified Hawk Moth Helicopter hovering less than one hundred metres from the office building. Without a warning the weapons suite of the Hawk Moth activated and the entire floor sprayed with machine gun fire and missiles from two large chin mounted launchers. The office building was not a military facility and the glass façade was not armoured to withstand more than a strong storm. Bullets shredded the windows and cut into several people in the office before they had a chance to duck out of the way. Bullets shredded glass, furniture and flesh before the first salvo of inferno equipped missiles slammed into the building. Immediately the building was enveloped in flame as the sticky napalm jelly substance exploded. The next salvos of missiles added fragmentation munitions to the mix which penetrated other floors of the twelve-story building as missiles streaked from the aircraft cutting into bystanders on every level of the complex.
The Hawk Moth continued to fire machine gun and missiles into the building as it began to move away with its chin turret tracking to keep the weapons on target causing more damage to the structure causing smaller fires in the external car parks as missiles exploded among the parked civilian vehicles. As the VTOL moved out of range there was little left of Earnest and Bosch of Wasat other than a blazing collapsing ruin as the aircraft disappeared into the clouds above walls of the building were collapsing under the intense heat as emergency services began to arrive. The VTOL rose through the air quickly with its electronic counter measures suite shielding it from tracking sensors.
Higher in the atmosphere above the clouds the Hawk Moth was joined a Sopworth Supply Camel which was also climbing. The Sopworth levelled out briefly allowing the Hawk Moth to move over the Sopworth before coming to rest on top of it, even as the Hawk Moth's blades were spinning to a stop the roof of the Sopworth was in motion beginning to slowly lower into the cargo bay of the craft and doors closed above making the craft airtight.
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Inside the small cargo bay of the Sopworth the pilot of the Hawk Moth stepped out of the aircraft still wearing their full flight suit waiting in the bay was Christopher Grant, aka the Bounty Hunter, wearing a simple green jumpsuit everyone knew everyone onboard the ship there were no secrets between the Bounty Hunter and his team. “It’s done” Kafka announced taking off her flight helmet revealing her long red hair “no-one is leaving that building alive.” She said coldly
“Good, well done, we’ll be clearing the atmosphere shortly.”
“Our exit is secure?”
“Affirmative, no pursuit expected, we’ll be heading to the next staging ground shortly.” He said leaving the bay.
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The Sopworth pulled out of the atmosphere and slipped into the traffic around Wasat heading directly for a massive Dante II-class Frigate which hung above the world its engines pointed towards the world as it prepared to leave orbit. The Sopworth flew around the large WarShip like a small winged fish flying around a whale in the black ocean of space. On the far side of the Dante the Sopworth docked with the larger vessel disappearing inside the WarShip’s docking bay.
On the SLS Toronto’s bridge the watch officer turned to the ship’s commander Captain Ivan Kolesnikov and nodded. “Thank you, we don’t have to like this it’s part of the job.” He replied seeing the officer’s disgust. “Contact Wasat control again and inform them we’ve completed our third scan and there is no sign of the aircraft in question. Add in if these things weren’t manufactured here, we might not have as many problems.” He said stepping around the holo-table in the middle of the room, his magnetic boots keeping him stable in the microgravity, he entered his command code into the system and deleted the record of the Sopworth Camel docking with their vessel. His orders had come directly from General James Topher, the Head of Star League Intelligence it wasn’t his job to disagree with command.
“We’ve been cleared sir”
“Very good, head for the nadir jump point single g burn.” He ordered the watch officer nodded and his words were repeated throughout the vessel as a warning to all the crew to expect the burn from the Toronto’s main engines. Slowly the ship accelerated moving away from Wasat. Several days later at the nadir point the Sopworth left the Dante docking with an Invader-class JumpShip which carried several DropShips away from the system.
The Sopworth is on the link below, I saw it a wee while ago and it seemed like the perfect fit. I'm not sure if there would be a mechanism for the VTOL to dock like described but we'll call it a quirk of this particular craft.
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/aerospace/sopworth-supply-camel-small-craft/msg1612886/#msg1612886 (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/aerospace/sopworth-supply-camel-small-craft/msg1612886/#msg1612886)
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Interesting update.
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And so Terra begins walking down the Cameron Road again... Jeebus.
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Why am i concern that Luther is a bad apple waiting to happen. Personally, i don't understand why Burton thinks he had bad behavior.
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Why am i concern that Luther is a bad apple waiting to happen. Personally, i don't understand why Burton thinks he had bad behavior.
I maybe didn't go over what came before very well technically you're right he hasn't
But from Burton's position Luther was shot while on Terra by someone who turned out to be from the Suns. Button is more anxious about what that potentially represents and what sections of his population think of his sons decision to study outwith their home colleges
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Time to end 3114
Deployment, Integrated Support Services Group HQ
Aswen, Caph
Star League Protectorate
8th December 3114
The base of the Integrated Support Services Group, the unit had been based here for years, with some elements sent to the world of Fenwick briefly to help bring it back to the Inner Sphere preparing the worlds spaceports for incoming travelers and now they were being deployed off world for the first time under Star League contract. Colonel Janina el Arguioui was fifty-two years old and had taken command of the unit at the beginning of the previous year following an extended career with construction firms on Caph, during her time with the command she’d done much to prepare the unit for work beyond the Star League’s borders thinking it was nearing time for them to move on not expecting the SLDF to need them elsewhere. Now with the Magistracy of Canopus leader holding the position of First Lord the Star League had agreed to help the periphery nation build infrastructure and Integrated Services Support were being sent there.
Standing in the middle of their massive command base Janina stood beside her XO Major Andreas Dandekar who would remain on Caph continuing to support the continued regeneration of Caph. Centre to those elements would be part of the unit that would likely never leave Caph. During excavations of one of Caph’s long forgotten Star League-era depots Integrated had discovered the find of a lifetime and something that they had decided they would renovate for their own use – a Rattler Air Defence Platform. The Rattler was a mobile structure which formed part of the SLDF’s System Defence System Network capable of targeting space craft approaching the planet. While Integrated had little need for an SDS platform this Rattler had been modified with multiple pieces of engineering equipment and formed a core part of Integrated’s efforts to re-establish Caph’s Mag-Lev network.
“You think you’ll manage without the rest of us?” Janina joked looking at the younger man.
“I think so sir, we’ve got Betty” he joked indicating to the mobile structure “they’d need a regiment to prize us out of her if we needed to hole up and enough local contacts to keep us going, you think you’re ready for the Periphery.” He asked more seriously while Caph was a world in need of a lot of rebuilding the periphery had never been tamed and would be constantly threating.
“We should be, we’ve got our own elements and the Twenty-seventh SOG will be on hand to support us along with the naval elements sent to the task group.” She explained the Twenty-seventh Special Operations Group from the Blackhearts had been assigned to Integrated for the duration of their stay on Gallis as a support element.
“Unless they get…” Andreas didn’t finish his statement as a large hovercraft approached them painted in Integrated’s light blue and yellow construction site colours. “What the hell is that?” He asked looking at the craft which wasn’t part of their TO&E. The hovercraft came to a rest more than thirty metres from them it was perhaps three times the size of most other hovercraft and was covered in weapons and communications antenna. As the huge fans began to cycle down one of the side doors opened and out walked Duke Kalvin Gustafson the planetary leader of Caph.
“Colonel, Major, I’m glad I could catch you before your DropShips left” he said as he approached while he was in his seventies Gustafson carried himself like the MechWarrior he had been when he was younger. While he’d long since retired from the battlefield he was still full of energy. “Colonel Arguioui, a gift from a grateful world a brand-new Hexarme Mobile HQ vehicle for your command.” He said turning towards the hovercraft “straight from Protectorate R&D the Hexarme is going to be deployed by SLDF units across the Inner Sphere, I twisted an arm or two and have had one released for your command along with its eight person crew and seven maintenance technicians who are willing to volunteer to join you in heading to Gallis.”
“Thank you” Janina said glancing at the vehicle and thinking of it and the fifteen new people she’d have to account for in the future. Caph had done a lot for her command and with the Rattler and Dandekar’s people remaining on the planet Integrated would continue to help the world. “Integrated will always be linked to this world Duke, we will ensure that we return following our deployment to Gallis, and I will do my best to return our new Hovercraft and its crew.”
“They are ready for the adventure, each of them trained with the Caph Guards they know how to serve in a command Colonel, I promise you, and I promise we’ll look after Major Dandekar and his people while you are away.”
“I’m sure that they’ll look after you too.” She promised him looking at “Betty” which stood behind them “Major Dandekar know exactly what our plans for Caph are Duke Gustafson he and his people will serve you well.” The Rattler was a huge asset for the command and it was not transportable, they’d return for it and Gustafson knew it so the Hexarme was an investment by the people of Caph and Arguioui would make sure they used it.
Pirate Point, Excalibur (Scimitar-class Missile Cruiser)
Charleston, Gaenir Collective
Periphery
10th December 3114
The Scimitar-class Missile Cruiser Excalibur, it’s long red hull a carryover from its original construction as an Avalon-class Cruiser while its Nova Cat emblem showed its current ownership status, arrived high above the world of Charleston in the Gaenir Collective. The small periphery nation had no space defence forces in the area to oppose the Cruiser’s presence but the Excalibur’s intent was not attack today.
Deep within the seven hundred-and-seventy thousand vessel in the command centre Star Admiral Alexandria Leroux floated confidently as there was a buzz of activity around her. “Star Admiral, we are in position over Charleston, no local defences from Gaenir.” One of the crewmen reported.
“Understood, communications send our message package to the Third Watch, engineering prepare to transfer energy package from Lithium Fusion Battery once message is confirmed received, helm as soon as engineering confirms jump us out of the system and take us to our next objective.” Leroux ordered giving all three departments their orders.
“Affirmative, Star Admiral” all three positions replied in rapid fire acknowledgement of her orders.
“Star Admiral, message in receipt at source and acknowledged by Star Colonel Franka West.”
“Energy transfer confirmed.”
“Coordinates confirmed”
“Jump the ship” Leroux ordered and within a couple of minutes the Excalibur launched itself out of the system. On the ground the Third Watch immediately began abandoning their positions on Charleston with the local defenders unable to stop the Clan unit. While the troops on Charleston did not know this these actions were being repeated by Nova Cats on fourteen other systems as the Clan abandoned its Expansion Region in its entirety and turned those troops towards the Federated Suns. Watch agents embedded in the Taurian Concordat, Fronc Reaches and Gaenir Collective ensured that all three periphery nations were aware of the Nova Cat withdrawal essentially ensuring that all three nations would be in conflict over the region and not bothering the Clan.
The Nova Cats ensured military equipment was removed or destroyed while leaving upgrades they had made to local infrastructure. They also ensured that all Nova Cat born civilians were evacuated from the worlds as were anyone who had proven their worth to the Clan while the native populations were left as if the Clan had never been there.
Raid in Force
Sakhalin, Bell PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
12th December 3114
In a pair of raids against the back of the Federated Suns the Capellan Confederation’s Elite Red Lancers and Dynasty Guard Regiments supported by several WarShips invade and conquer Ulan Balor and Sakhalin. Leading the Red Lancers from her Vandal OmniMech Duchess Zeia Liao leads the assault on Sakhalin brutally cutting down targets with her sixty-five-ton Mech’s Light Gauss Rifle, Vibroblade, lasers and inferno missile munitions. The first-born daughter of Chancellor Dao-Shen Liao proves to be a brutal and skilled fighter in the heavy utilitarian OmniMech.
These attacks occur as Clan Snow Raven begin heavy raids against the Draconis March of the Federated Suns striking at Bryceland, Kennard, Tancredi IV, Pitkin and Hazelhurst with raids against defence forces while Inner End and Haynesville are captured by the Snow Ravens who drive out local defenders following local Trials of Possession in each case the AFFS defenders show the Clan force respect. With Federated Suns already trying to hold the Benjamin Salient, trying to defend Robinson from Draconis Combine assault and hold the Nova Cats at bay their defences are stretched to breaking point.
Press Conference, Courtyard
The Triad, Tharkad
Donegal Province, Lyran Commonwealth
19th December 3114
In front of the Government Hub on the Lyran Commonwealth’s capital of Tharkad dozens of reporters were gathered for a press conference. On a small podium set in front of a pair of Main Battle Tanks, a Manticore II and a DI Schmitt, a tough looking man in his fifties stepped up to address them. His close-cut dark hair was beginning to go grey in places his face broken by dozens of wrinkles showing his experience for all to see. He wore an immaculate Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces dress uniform of the armour corps with the unit patch of the Eisenjagers Independent Armour Regimental Brigade, a Rommel Tank and Steiner Fist insignia, displayed proudly on the arm.
“I am Colonel Bernard Howard, the commander of the Second Eisenjagers, today I return to the Lyran Commonwealth from the world of Arcturus.” He said “I and my fellow Eisenjagers have continued to serve the Lyran Commonwealth under the command of Aiden Grey against the occupying forces of Clan Hell’s Horses. The troopers who served under the General’s command are some of the bravest I have ever seen spending their lives for the people of Arcturus and the Lyran Commonwealth against insurmountable odds. It is my duty to announce that Aiden Grey has fallen and all remaining resistance on Arcturus by Lyran forces has now ended. We will continue to claim Arcturus as a holding of the Lyran Commonwealth but it will be one under occupation.” He said pausing remembering those who had fallen “I will continue to serve with the Lyran Commonwealth and will oversee the rebuilding of the Eisenjagers Independent Brigade.”
This announcement of the official capitulation of Arcturus comes as the SLDF and Lyran Commonwealth defenders stop a combined Hell’s Horses and Clan Coyote assault on the district capital world of Freedom in the Isle of Skye. While the Inner Sphere forces have their victories on Freedom and in the system of Alexandria news comes that the worlds of Whittington, Eaton and Yedi Prior have all fallen to the combined Clan assaults as Clans Jade Falcon, Hell’s Horses and Coyote all push into the Isle of Skye region.
Expedition Landing Site, MacMahon (Fortress-class DropShip)
Novus Terra, Deep Periphery
28th December 3114
In front of the Fortress-class DropShip MacMahon Dave O’Connor lead pilot of the mercenary unit Cemetery Wind stood with Expedition leader Christoffer Trossen on a new world. Though the world known as Novus Terra was not a completely hostile world to humans both wore breathing masks to assist in filtering the air which had a slight taint hazardous to human biology. Dave O’Connor was uncomfortable standing beside Trossen, this was Amanda Cavalcenti’s job, Trossen was a civilian but he carried himself like someone who could look after himself. While he was in his fifties, he stood over six foot in height and was well built having worked out for years in gyms in between his scientific studies. Ahead of them approached a single Ostscout BattleMech painted in the grey colours of the rocks around them. The thirty-five-ton humanoid Mech had a single laser jutting out of its chest but otherwise looked like an oversized human.
The Mech stopped almost twenty metres clear of them and a chain ladder dropped down the front of the Mech and soon after the pilot climbed out of the Ostscout cockpit and down a ladder. The figure slowly walked towards them as they approached O’Connor could make out that the figure was a male who appeared to be older than both of them. His jumpsuit was primarily white, it was obviously not new with multiple patchwork repairs having occurred over the years giving it multiple different coloured patches. On his belt he had what appeared to be a heavy pistol holstered and several other survival packs.
“Welcome to the Novus Terra system” he said to them unlike O’Connor and Trossen he didn’t wear a breathing mask having either adapted to the taint in the atmosphere or not caring about it due to his advanced age. “My name is Greg Bushroe, I command those that call this world home, I’d like to know why you are visiting this world.”
“As we said from orbit we are simply exploring and mapping the area beyond the Free Worlds League and Magistracy of Canopus.” Trossen explained “we mean no hostile intent; we only wish to find the populations beyond the nearby realms which were formerly held by the Marian Hegemony and the worlds beyond them.”
“Ah, well Novus Terra is occupied, there is no Marian influence here only myself, my unit and our people. There are half a dozen farmers and small settlements across the planet, mostly people just wanting to be left alone. We’re too far from anyone for them to show an interest in us before today, and I hope after this meeting you’re satisfied enough to leave?” He said obviously becoming irritated by their presence.
“That’s an Ostscout 7Jb isn’t it?” O’Connor asked looking admirably at the BattleMech behind Bushroe. As he looked at the Mech he saw small antenna sticking out and a slightly enlarged section of armour suggesting hidden electronics. “built by the original Star League Defence Force.”
“Yes, I brought it here with me, there isn’t a cache here before you think otherwise.”
“It’s an expensive piece of kit, even for an antique” O’Connor said speaking out loud what he was thinking, the 7Jb was a Royal variant of the Ostscout put into limited production by the original Star League there wouldn’t be very many of them left in the Inner Sphere and none were in production anymore.
“Brought from my previous occupation in the Inner Sphere, MechWarrior?” He asked looking O’Connor up and down.
“Affirmative, David O’Connor, I pilot a light BattleMech known as the Mammoth.”
“I don’t recognize it, but then I’ve been out of circulation for a while, we don’t get MechWarrior’s Monthly out here.” The older man joked MechWarrior’s Monthly was a subscription service which was primarily sent out via HPG from its distribution centre on Terra.
“It’s relatively new” O’Connor said “built in the Free Worlds League primarily for security work I’d guess it wouldn’t be even a match for your antique.” He said glancing at Trossen who nodded “it’s also our heaviest Mech, sir, we’re not here to cause you harm. We are simply exploring and seeing what’s out here.”
“I appreciate your honesty Mr O’Connor, but I’d prefer not to show you everything we have, if your people decide to ‘explore’ here in the future we’ll need all the surprises we have. All I will say to you is that we’re willing to trade with outsiders if they trade on our terms, they land where we ask like you did today and they trade fairly. We’ll not entertain exploration of our world by outsiders unless there is something specific you want to look at, then we’ll assess if your work will be any threat to our positions.”
“I think we can work with those restrictions.” Trossen said “is there anything your people need? Medical supplies or food?”
“Not at present, we brought a lot of equipment with us and the locals have been very supportive, thank you.” Bushroe explained “we like the people here and they appear to like us.”
“Thank you for your time, we won’t bother you further…”
“Good” Bushroe said cutting in essentially ending the conversation he briefly turned to O’Connor and nodded once before turning and returning to his Mech.
“Not everyone wants visitors.” O’Connor noted
“No” Trossen said “we’ve gathered some interesting information, maybe someone else will come by this world in the future, and maybe Bushroe will get the peace he desires.” He said as they watched the man climb back onboard his Ostscout. “Shame we used some fuel to get here but a trip onto any new world is an interesting one. Onwards and upwards I guess.” He said turning and walking back into the MacMahon leaving O’Connor to watch as the mysterious MechWarrior and his Ostscout walked away from their landing zone leaving them in peace, at least every world isn’t a hostile one, he thought before turning back towards the inside of the DropShip. Within the hour the MacMahon was lifting off the ground and heading back into space, onwards towards their next world.
Trial Grounds, Research and Development
Tukayyid, Clan Territory Inner Sphere
31st December 3114
On Tukayyid the Clan research team watched as the Phoenix Hawk BattleMech walked out of the Mechbay onto the grounds. Seeing a BattleMech, even an Inner Sphere one like this Phoenix Hawk wasn’t a surprise, but this Mech was special. The Mech almost immediately broke into a run activating its jump jets as it ran in Mid-air the BattleMech appeared to convert a into something else with its upright stance bending over and its wings extending either side of the craft. The newly arranged airborne Mech now flew a distand in it’s new form before going through further changes with the legs and arms folding into the aircraft’s form crating a fully operational aerospace fighter.
“As you can see our test pilot has mastered the conversion process from BattleMech to aerospace fighter.” Scientist Tualo said turning to the Loremaster of the Clans Iwabuchi Nagasawa who was overseeing the test project.
“MechWarrior Hector is of Raven stock and has adapted well to the process” he said as the Phoenix Hawk flew over their position “unfortunately not all MechWarriors have adapted as well not have pilots adapted to piloting a BattleMech which requires its pilot to be Intune with its machine.”
“I know how pilots work with their machines!” Nagasawa snapped slapping the man across the side of the face it wasn’t a hard hit and Tualo didn’t move far, he should have known better than to try and teach a Trueborn Warrior how BattleMechs and Aerospace fighters worked even if LAM pilots needed to know both disciplines. “Inner Sphere freebirth pilots are able to fly Land Air Mechs, their nations field entire regiments against us!” He said angrily the Inner Sphere had gone down the LAM rabbit hole, much like the original Star League had, with every nation the Clans now fought fielding many of the machines. The Clans had abandoned the technology on the instruction of The Founder Nicholas Kerensky who wished a divided system of MechWarriors and Aerospace Fighter pilots. “The Draconis Combine embarrassed the Ghost Bears in the Mellen system the LAM’s they fielded able to out maneuver and out fight the defenders even when using our dueling laws. The Clans must adapt.”
“And we will” Tualo said agreeing with him
“When can we have our first Clan variant of that Mech built and tested?”
“Clan… variant?” Tualo stammered “we have barely begun to learn how everything works the textbooks and information held from the Star League-era has only taught us so much. We need to learn this technology from the ground up.”
“Are you saying that we need to recruit people from the Inner Sphere?” Nagasawa asked he wanted work to begin on a new Clan built LAM as soon as possible before the Clans discovered the plans being developed on Tukayyid. If the Clans discovered they could field such craft if they were built using Inner Sphere technology then it would never work.
“Some experts could be useful but our technology is not fully compatible with LAM technology. We need to adapt our building practices to accommodate this technology.”
“I will instruct the Watch and Ebon Guard to seek out those that can help you. There is a project in the Hell’s Horses Occupation Zone that could also help with your development work. I will get you the people and the equipment do not fail me.”
“Aff Loremaster.” The scientist said as the Loremaster walked away from him the Phoenix Hawk flew over them again before turning back into a BattleMech and coming in for a landing on its jump jets. They had successfully tested the Mech but production was a very long way away.
I'll get the support unit and warship lists and map uploaded hopefully Monday but feel free to discuss in the meantime.
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An excellent update as usual, so the Nova Cats are contracting their space to reinforce it and the Sun's is overstreched militarily, and, the Clans are working on a LAM of their own! Verrrrrrrrrry interesting!
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Attached are the current active units and WarShips at the end of 3114
The following link has the current Map as this site doesn't like it
https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=1092.msg50906#msg50906 (https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=1092.msg50906#msg50906)
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Thank you for the detail update on the armies & ships of your universe!
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Nice update! :thumbsup:
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Not really an update today but something I think is really cool!
Wrangler has been working on a fandom wiki page for this universe. As this is the timeline that started with me borrowing designs, characters, units, worlds... yes I did ;D and saying thanks to the creator afterwards I think it's time to say a big thank you to Wrangler for this. Below I've linked two of the articles that are on there.
UrbanMC
https://battletechfanon.fandom.com/wiki/UrbanMC_(ATwT) (https://battletechfanon.fandom.com/wiki/UrbanMC_(ATwT))
Peter-class Scout
https://battletechfanon.fandom.com/wiki/Peter-Class_Scout_(ATwT) (https://battletechfanon.fandom.com/wiki/Peter-Class_Scout_(ATwT))
Although these units are already in the universe it's great to see them in this format and I think it really adds to the timeline. So thanks to Wrangler and please enjoy.
More soon.
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That's really cool! He's darn good like that :D
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3115
Snow Raven assaults
Hazelhurst PDZ, Draconis March
Federated Suns
1st January 3115
Opening a new front against the Federated Suns following their actions against Snow Raven a supply convoy. Two entire Galaxies of troops supported by WarShips descend on the systems of Hazelhurst, Sterlington, Kirbyville, Bastrop and Stratford in a surprise blitzkrieg style assault. Snow Raven fighters and BattleMechs almost blot out the light above Hazelhurst during the initial attacks with the Ravens rapidly overwhelming the defenders.
With most of the AFFS holding onto the Benjamin Sailent, Defending Robinson and fighting the Nova Cats the AFFS are far out of position and not ready for the assaults. The Dragonlords Regiments defending the Bryceland PDZ hold their position defending their homeworlds following the previous Raven assault the units appear to be in no hurry to leave their worlds instead fortify their positions while other AFFS other units are directed into the area. In the Hazelhurst system the FSS Staghound, a Peter-class Scout, is destroyed as the crew attempt to stop a Raven Titan-class DropShip making its way in system the Titan was not a standard model of the class and overwhelmed the Staghound with superior firepower.
Iron Wombs
Science Quarter, Wolf City
Sheridan, Wolf Empire
8th January 3115
In the heart of Wolf City, Clan Wolf’s defacto capitol city, on the world of Sheridan were the Clan’s Iron Womb complex where Wolf scientists created the next generation of Clan Wolf Trueborn warriors. When the Wolves had arrived on Sheridan, they had built the Wolf City over a settlement that existed before much like the Clans had when they built Katayusha with entire neighbourhoods being razed and a new orderly city being built over the top. Citizens of the old city were ordered to move to the outskirts or executed in a brutal operation which would give the Wolves the order they desired. When the Wolves had taken Tamar in the old occupation zone, they hadn’t bothered with such operations but here in their “Empire” the Wolves intended on retaining Sheridan even after they seized Terra, Sheridan would remain a Wolf world now and forever.
With each section of the city defined it was unusual to see members of other castes in the others areas unless they were looking for something and today was no different. Star Colonel Alaric Wolf was on the warpath the day before he had arrived on Sheridan to take part in the Ward Bloodname bloodtrial only to find that he had been passed over for selection and his only way to earn a Bloodname would now be through a grand melee. Such a contest would reduce his chances significantly and would mean that if he won, he would receive one of the lesser Bloodnames. Each Bloodname brought honour and respect but some, some were more equal than others in most warrior’s eyes. Alaric was of Ward stock with his lineage bring drawn from the blood of Vlad Ward himself, the former Khan of Clan Wolf and one of the most respected leaders of the modern Clan Wolf, Alaric wanted to know why he had been passed over for ‘his’ Bloodname.
Entering the laboritaries, Alaric would have been anywhere in human space that had reached the technological level to investigate the secrets of science. These non-descript white and grey offices with small office cubes on either side and larger research areas in the centre were where important science happened for Clan Wolf Alaric. It was where Alaric could get answers he wanted, calmly he spoke remaining in control as much as he could as he addressed a group of scientists who looked at him with respectiful but wary eyes. “I am Star Colonel Alaric of the Ward Bloodhouse; I wish to speak to the one who is in charge here.” He said remaining at arms length to them his tone not entirely hostile. “I have questions about my bloodline, questions that need answer.
“This is quite improper…” One of the scientists began but Alaric stopped him with a backhanded slap over the man’s face knocking him to the side, his anger beginning to boil.
“Understand this scientist, I am a Trueborn Warrior of Clan Wolf which your fate is tied to from your birth to your death and you are a scientist. Warriors have ruled our Clan from its inception and will until the ends of time where all that remains is Clan Wolf and its subjects.” He reminded the man as he calmly rubbed the side of his face “I have won the right from the leader of the Ward Bloodhouse to be here and to ask questions, I have been authorised to use any means I deem necessary to get the answers I want.” He said which was a little stretch of the truth he’d won a Circle of Equals against Aron Ward to come here, that was true, but the leader of the Ward Bloodhouse had almost taunted him by informing him to ‘ask his questions and be unhappy with what you find, there are secrets Clan Wolf holds that will never become public.’ He hadn’t known what that meant but he was determined to find out exactly what he’d meant. He was a trueborn warrior he knew that much and his actions for Clan Wolf had gained him the recoignition that would allow him to fight for a Bloodname like any other warrior, his successes should be built on by future generations.
“Well… scientist Vettel may be better to explain… he’s in his office… this way.” The man began to say as he recovered from the slap.
“Star Colonel Alaric Wolf, enough of this witch hunt, if you wish to speak to anyone that person will be me.” The thunderous voice of Loremaster Gloria Shaw thundered from the doors at the far end of the room. “Scientists you have work leave us.” She said walking into the office complex her massive bulk a reminder to anyone that she was an Elemental by birth the metal plate that ran the length of the right-hand side of her head from her eye to behind where her ear should have been. Both her right eye and right ear had been replaced with cybernetics due to the damage caused by the injury the eye now an unblinking red glare that pierced through and unnerved her opponents.
Around Alaric the scientists vacated the area leaving him alone in the shared central area between offices. “Loremaster, Aron Ward authorised me to come here and speak with these scientists…”
“Aron Ward is dead, he met me this morning in a Circle of Equals and he was not my equal.” Gloria Shaw said interrupting him she stopped at arms length to him which for an elemental of her size was several feet and she was still intimidating despite being in her forties Gloria Shaw struck an impressive figure, her artificial red eye and metal plate worn with pride. The news that she had killed a Bloodhouse leader in a Circle of Equals shocked Alaric. “His descision to overlook you for the Bloodname contest was a mistake as was his… lack of discretion could have cost Clan Wolf much if things that were done in the name of progress came to light.”
“And what does this progress have to do with me?” Alaric asked wondering what his Clan had done which would affect him.
“Walk with me” Shaw commanded turning away from him Alaric matched her large strides as best he could to maintain pace with the larger woman. Once out of the offices Gloria Shaw led him silently down a grey corridor outside onto a balcony overlooking Sheridan. It was a dull wet day near Wolf City the planet that Clan Wolf had selected as its new capitol was a habitable pleasant enough world and a perfect habitat for the Wolves that the Clan had released on their arrival with an abundance of prey for the animals. Unfortunately, it was also a humid and wet world with frequent rain storms which covered half the hemisphere sometimes for days on end. Already the Wolves had funded massive construction projects on the world to build flood defences to protect their facilities and the civilian settlements and to collect rain water for drinking and other uses.
As the rain beat down on them and the science complex Gloria Shaw turned to him ignoring the weather, on the balcony guard she placed a small device, Alaric was surprised realizing it was some sort of jamming device. “We can talk here without being overheard. While I trust the scientists in this facility, I do not know who else may be listening this device will mask our words and the weather will distort our words.”
“What did out Clan do, and how does it affect me?”
“Have you ever heard of someone named Katrina Wolf?” She asked Alaric couldn’t place it immediately there may be a hundred Katrina Wolfs in the Inner Sphere it wasn’t an uncommon name. “She also went by the names Katrina Ward and Katherine Steiner-Davion?”
“Aff, I have heard of this pirate she was an Inner Sphere born freeborn warrior, she betrayed Clan Wolf and was killed in the periphery.”
“Aff, she was claimed by Khan Vlad Ward when she was defeated in the Lyran Commonwealth. Before her defeat Katherine was classed by many as one of the more successful politicians in the Inner Sphere. Khan Ward was infatuated with her and impressed by her abilities, he wished to use her knowledge to forge a future for our Clan in a battleground that our Clan was not experienced.”
“The only experience we need is that we earn on the battlefield quiaff?”
“Aff, battlefield victories are important but using the politics of the Inner Sphere to our benefit is also important.” Gloria Shaw explained “Ward believed that she could be a benefit to him in gaining control of the Inner Sphere unfortunately for Vlad Ward he died before his plan could come to fruition. Neither Vlad Ward’s plan nor Katrina’s presence in our Clan have had a lasting effect bar one thing, Vlad Ward ordered Katrina’s DNA to be added to our genetics program.”
“She was freeborn!” Alaric exclaimed angrily “she did not earn the right.”
“Neg, she did not, but she is also not the first freeborn to have had their DNA added to the Clan genetics program there are hundreds of occurrences recorded through Clan history each cataloged and studied every time our scientists looking for improvements.” Shaw explained informing Alaric of one of the murkier facts about their genetics program. “Simply put to encourage genetic diversity and maintain the health of our future generations occasionally additional DNA is added to the program by scientists. Normally these are taken from our own civilian castes because they have shown promise, but Khan Ward ordered Katrina’s DNA mixed in with his own and one other to breed a new generation of warriors.”
“Who else?” Alaric demanded his anger boiling inside as he realized that Shaw was speaking about his generation of warriors and that he had been passed over because of Katrina’s DNA.
“Victor Steiner-Davion, Katrina’s brother and the present Exarch of the Star League Protectorate.” Gloria shaw admitted watching the shock play on Alaric’s face. “He is considered by many to be one of the best strategic commanders of the modern era having masterminded the destruction of Clan Smoke Jaguar and having led not only the Federated Suns but also now the Star League for decades. Khan Ward ordered his DNA to be taken by the Clan Watch and added to our genetics program.”
“Khan Ward’s actions were dishonourable. Clan Wolf’s future should be in Clan Wolf hands, I understand the need to keep our genetic stocks diverse but Clan Wolf’s future should be of its own making.”
“Aff, I agree” Gloria Shaw said “however those actions have been taken and now we must live with them. The scientists who were involved in the project have been reaved and thus far only one individual has proven their worth to our Clan.” She explained “the impact this experiment will have on Clan Wolf is a minimal one.
“And what does that mean for me?” Alaric guessed that the 'only one individual has proven their worth' was him and did not like the idea that his entire life had been an experiment masterminded by scientists and a dead Khan.
“You Alaric Wolf are in a unique position; unlike the others of your generation, you have proven yourself worthy of having the right to earn a Bloodname and with Aron Ward’s death there is a place within the Ward Bloodhouse available." He said confirming that Alaric had thought. "Through Khan Ward’s DNA you have a right to fight for that name but there is a condition attached – your silence.”
“My silence, once I am a Bloodnamed Warrior I can do what I desire.” Alaric stated “it is the right of each Bloodnamed warrior to forge their own destiny, Quiaff?”
“Aff, you can.” Gloria Shaw admitted, she’d observed Alaric for some time she knew his potential “but, revealing this secret would damage Clan Wolf’s standing and if you were to lead this Clan with this secret revealed your position would be weakened in Clan society something that will not only cause trouble for you but also our entire Clan. We are the Children of Kerensky we should be at the fore front of Clan society, do not jeopardies our position." He warned sternly "do you understand Alaric? Your own actions could determine how successful you are as a Wolf, you have a choice win a Bloodname, use discretion and potentially lead this Clan or do not use discretion and possibly end it.” She said giving him the stark choice “either way Alaric, the choice is yours.” She said picking up the jammer again she walked off the balcony back into the building.
Eight days later Alaric stood as one of the warriors fighting for the name made available by the death of Aron Ward. Inside the Circle of Equals Alaric proved himself worthy of the name winning his Bloodname becoming Alaric Ward.
Border Raids
Magistracy of Canopus
Periphery
19th January 3115
With the conflict that began the year before continuing the Magistracy of Canopus with assistance from the Capellan Confederation push into the Regulan systems of Dalton, Jouques, Martigues and Shenwan the District of Regulus is clearly in trouble against the attacks. In an effort to assist their Free Worlds League allies Khan Petra Furey, the leader of the District of Lesnovo and of Clan Smoke Jaguar’s remnants, orders her forces into action invading the Magistracy of Canopus.
The District of Lesnovo forces launch attacks across five worlds between Wisconsin and Rushcegg catching the Magistracy of Canopus support forces as they rearm preparing for the next wave of attacks. On Wisconsin the First Rim Guardians and elements of Clan Smoke Jaguar’s reconstituted Beta Galaxy face off against the Third Canopian Brigade. As with previous District of Lesnovo tactics the heavier machines of the First Rim Guardians lead the attack with Beta Galaxy’s primarily Ultra-light units maneuvering around the flanks and finally crushing the Canopian Regiment. Survivors from the Rim Guardians are folded into Beta Galaxy.
In a similar attack on Ayn Tarma the Second Rim Sentinels Regiment and elements of the Smoke Jaguars Gamma Galaxy are pitted against the Second Canopian Brigade. Unlike the attack on Wisconsin the four Canopian Regiments are ready for the assault and they repulse the invaders attempts at conquest. Back within the District of Lesnovo the remains of the Rim Sentinels are folded into Gamma Galaxy. While to an outsider this tactic appeared to be the Jaguars taking over the District of Lesnovo the people and the regiments accept their transfer as the majority of the “Clan” force is made up of native-born Free Worlds Leaguers who were born on worlds that have always been loyal to House Marik and as suce the people of Lesnovo see their “conversion” to Smoke Jaguar position as simply a transfer between units.
With the failure to secure Ayn Tarma the District of Lesnovo’s attacks do not stall instead Khan Petra Furey is even more determined to show her district, and by extension her Clan, are ready to fight the wars that need fought and win their own battles without external assistance. As a result, District of Lesnovo forces assault the remaining three worlds in their target list with renewed vigour. While Rushcegg and Saonara fall to their assaults on Skovrec do they suffer any significant reversal when the passing WarShip MCS Katara obliterates two JumpShips and eight DropShips worth of troops in space destroying the entire invasion force. Hundreds of soldiers and thousands of tons equipment are lost in the attack showing the power of even the smallest WarShip when it is used correctly against ground forces.
The destruction of the Ayn Tarma assault force Khan Petra Furey orders the remaining elements of Delta Galaxy stood down and its forces retested for their warrior positions. Without significant shipyard facilities available to the District of Lesnovo she turns to her Free Worlds League allies for assistance using contacts within the Free Worlds League Smoke Jaguars neigotiate with Free Flight of Fletcher and arrange to purchase three Monolisk-class Destroyers. Unfortunately, due to orders already placed at the shipyards these vessels will not be launched until 3125. In the meantime, for the defence of their district and for future offensive operations, Khan Petra Furey decided her people needed other options and looked inside the district for support.
With the Magistracy of Canopus facing assault from multiple districts of the Free Worlds League Magestix Ilsa Centrella orders her troops to hold their positions and rebuild their strength ready to take territory back from the District of Lesnovo. The Magistracy of Canopus’ gains have another effect the worlds captured are classed as Inner Sphere territory bringing the nation that currently holds the position of First Lord into the Inner Sphere.
Briton Throne Room
Cyclops Station, Cyclops
Periphery
28th January 3115
Deep within the Cyclops Space Station Queen Gabriela Briton sat on her throne chair confident of her rule as she had been for the forty years. Rarely did she dress differently than today her brown leather jacket covering the survival suit she always wore when in space. The jacket itself told hundreds of stories and wore several patches she had added over the years to some it was a standard piece of clothing but to the queen and those people who lived on the station it was a symbol of her rule as much as any crown would be. While the survival suit served its own purpose Gabriela Briton occasionally visited penal mining colony in the system, she primarily lived-in space and as such dressed appropriately ready at all moments for reports of a hull breach and the survival suit was one key factor in survival or death for space dwellers. The “Throne Room” onboard the station outpost was actually two rooms one part was an extension of the CIC facility that ran the station where the Queen could oversee what was going on on the station, when the station was still a Potemkin-class ship in the service of the SLDF this room had been a separate meeting facility used by flag officers to oversee invasions of worlds. From here she could watch as the stations day to day operations were conducted and hold private audiences if required.
“Jump signature” one of the crewmen manning the operation’s centre announced “single JumpShip Invader-class” he said then after a few moments “it identifies as the SLJS John Doig, they are requesting permission to deploy a DropShip to the station to conduct neigotions.”
“Authorize them to approach” Briton said “have our fighters’ approach and escort them in once they are close enough.” She commanded then she flicked a switch on her throne which turned the entire wall around into another compartment away from the buzz of the operations centre. At the door stood two guards at attention their magnetic boots holding them onto the deck in the micro-gravity. Moments later her Chief of Security Ronin Ichiro Matsumoto walked through hatch entering from the Ops centre to this day he still wore his Red and Black DCMS uniform just without any of the ranks or medals he was entitled to on his uniform he still wore the Katana blade he had as a DCMS warrior even though he was no longer entitled by his native-born tradition. She appreciated the fact that he still had the blade and his skill with it.
“Sumimasen, Joō Briton” he said bowing despite being the father to her children Ichiro knew his place on the station; one step lower than her. “I believe that allowing the SLDF to approach is a risk that we do not need to take. They do not need to come here; we can survive without being part of the Cirincus Federation and without their assistance.” He suggested refering to the recent decision by the Queen to remove the Cyclops Station from the Cirincus Federation and declare their independence once more. In recent weeks the Rim Collection had pushed into several systems of the Cirincus Federation shattering commands after the Rim Collection claimed that Cirincus was responsible for raids into the nation. This had caused the four “Zeta” worlds to break from the Federation creating a buffer between Cirincus and the Rim. Independence would be good for the Cyclops Station and allow them to trade with and raid all three nearby nations. The SLDF had no presence in the region why they’d come to the Cyclops was a mystery and Queen Briton liked a good mystery.
“I agree we do not need them, but I am curious about what they have to say.” She explained “Also you do not simply insult someone who could knock down a wall of your home with a flick of their wrist. The SLDF have great power behind them and while the Cyclops is strong it wouldn’t survive an extended encounter with a dedicated military threat.
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It took three days for the SLDF DropShip to reach the station as it approached fighters from the station escorted it in. The ship appeared to be a large cargo DropShip that had been modified to carry small craft and additional weapons according to the Cyclops military sensors the ship appeared around twenty-five thousand tons in gross weight visually it appeared to have one central round section and four bulbous cargo/engine modules running around the ship with two either side of the central section. From its fighter bays two aerospace fighters and a small craft launched turning towards the station with the fighters peeling off and flying down the length of the station as the small craft docked. Queen Gabriela Briton had requested that the SLDF party be welcomed onboard like any other traveller and to go through standard immigration checks and then taken to the Throne Room.
As a result of the Queen’s instructions the party of four from the Star League Defence Force took three hours to get from immigration to the Throne Room which was currently turned so the room was private and away from the CIC Operations. When they arrived Queen Gabriela Briton was sat waiting for them alone with Ronin Ichiro Matsumoto Queen could see their party had two large and obviously capable security officers who were dressed in standard military fatigues of trained marines. She had no doubt that even without weapons they’d be a match for her own guards in a fair fight. The other two were dressed in SLDF uniform one an older man with receeding grey hair and a grey mustache wore the grey jacket and black trousers of a Captain while the other a younger man with dark hair wore a plain black uniform jumpsuit all four stopped at a respectful distance from her and Ichiro but far enough away from the guards to not be an immediate threat.
“Welcome to The Cyclops, I am Queen Gabriela Briton, what can we do for you?”
“I’m Captain William Blannin the commander of the SLS Liverpool, thank you for seeing us” the older man said introducing himself “we’re glad to see that the Cyclops is still thriving it has been some time since we have made contact…”
“Officially we have never had relations with the Star League Defence Force” she said interrupting the captain “whatever unofficial relations you had they were not with me and so you should discount them entirely before continuing or leave before I become angry with you.” She demanded she saw Matsumoto tense beside her and knew the SLDF would have to.
“Of course, Queen Briton, I did not mean any offense, the SLDF have been aware of this station’s presence purely through the words of the traders who have dealt with you and from ComStar’s records.” Blannin explained backtracking slightly.
“Now that we understand one another may I enquire ONCE more why you are here?” Her emphisis on the word once was enough to make it clear that she wished to proceed with business now rather than continued small talk.
“As we understand it your nation has recently broke from the Cirincus Federation…”
“Something we have done within a matter of the last few days; you are well informed” Briton said quietly
“…and as a result of your new independence we would like to establish diplomatic relations with this station and help keep you in contact with things outside this station.”
“As your ‘traders’ have no doubt informed you we have many people coming through our station and we learn many things. I am sure the Star League would like to know some of the things we know?”
“Yes, we would however I’m sure certain people would only talk to independent trading outposts like yourselves.” His diplomatic dodging of the Cyclops position as a pirate nation was well done and Briton allowed him to continue. “With your independence does come some risks however, the recent conflicts between Clan Fire Mandrill and the Cirincus Federation has shown what can be done with enough weapons.”
“The Cyclops can defend itself”
“For a short period of time yes.” Blannin suggested “what we offer is the ability for the Cyclops to hold out longer until help could arrive and resist external threats such as those provided by Clan Fire Mandrill or by the Federation’s Erinyes.” He saw them preparing to counter his argument and quickly spoke again “I know this station was built on a Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser and despite its outward appearance and the modifications that have been made over the years that some of its weapons have been restored but against a fully operational assault force alone Cyclops is not enough.”
“And you would also provide this help?” Matsumoto said speaking up for the first time “you speak as a friend but from what I understand in your case we would be indebted to you should we call for your help.”
“Not necessarily you would not need to call for us, you could call for anyone, but the SLDF was formed to hold back the Clans we aim to serve those in need of assistance.” He offered “which brings us to why we are here the SLDF would like to enter into an agreement with you similar to the one that you held with ComStar. We would like to hire several DropShip collars with you and in exchange we will provide you with funds and information from the Inner Sphere.”
“Considering you will receive information while your people are here all I hear are the ching-ching of C-Bills.” Briton said
“I think you can do better.”
“Like what?”
“You say that you want us to be able to communicate with those nearby then perhaps you could provide us with an HPG?” Briton said smiling “we have a compartment that could be converted to the purpose and power lines that lead into that area.”
“An expensive piece of equipment.”
“Which you could charge us and the people passing through the Cyclops to use.” Briton suggested “my people could not operate the facility but those SLDF personnel you wish to dock at our station could run the facility and make some money while doing it.”
“We’d need more for such a service, two of the docking collars free of charge.”
“A fourth docking collar free of charge” Briton countered “you cannot expect me to offer things to you for nothing you want ComStar’s agreement you can have ComStar’s agreement. But these new deals are extra.”
“Then we’ll also want to leave an armed security detachment with the HPG and the personnel” the younger man in darker clothing said.
“With weapons that are checked onto the station by my people.” Matsumoto said “nothing that could penetrate the hull will be allowed onboard and no Battle Armour the station was not built for them to traverse the corridors.” He said the two exchanged a nod of agreement.
“Major Malcolm Galley will command the detachment here on Cyclops” Blannin said indicating to the man all in black.
“Pleasure” Galley said nodding
“Of couse and to protect this investment you will authorize weapon sales to the Cyclops.”
“There is a line and that one we will not cross” Blannin said according to Star League intelligence the people of the Cyclops with support from the Cirincus Federation perhaps as many as three of the Heavy Naval Particle Cannons which made up the original Potemkin armament giving the station additional punch. One of these weapons had been used to obliterate a pirate DropShip several years before as a show of force further power was not something that Blannin was will to entertain.
“How about defensive items such as anti-missile systems?” Briton suggested “in exchange we’ll give you a fifth docking collar? Which should be more than enough for a garrison, communication staff and whatever else you wish to pass through the station.”
“I will confirm with my superiors if that is an option.” Blannin said “for not we’ll agree to provide you with an HPG in exchange for the garrison and the docking collars discussed.”
“Well bargained and done, Captain” Briton said rising from her chair “now please you, the major and your friends should join my family for a meal to cement this deal.”
“Agreed, I hope this is the start of a lasting relationship”
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A nice update for the New Year!
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Nice see this keep going. Weird Cyclop is getting improvements...very sneaky.
What deal with Alaric? Katherine Wolf/Steiner-Davion/Ward/watever. She dead? Didn't she already have Son who became Cesar before it's downfall? I missed where Alaric came from.
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Nice see this keep going. Weird Cyclop is getting improvements...very sneaky.
What deal with Alaric? Katherine Wolf/Steiner-Davion/Ward/watever. She dead? Didn't she already have Son who became Cesar before it's downfall? I missed where Alaric came from.
Katrina Ward is dead assassinated by the Bounty Hunter IIRC she did indeed have a son but I'll be I cannot remember off the top of my head if he's alive or dead he was in the Marian Hegemony and involved with some Blakists so likely I'll check when I have a minute
Alaric in this is like he is in Canon a genetic experiment by the Wolves mixing Katherine's, Vlads and Victor's DNA in a cannister to build a new Trueborn. Unlike the Canon Alaric he never met any of his DNA donors instead he's pure Wolf so he won't be as adaptable as the Canon one otherwise I'll not say much else on him for now
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Katrina Ward is dead assassinated by the Bounty Hunter IIRC she did indeed have a son but I'll be I cannot remember off the top of my head if he's alive or dead he was in the Marian Hegemony and involved with some Blakists so likely I'll check when I have a minute
Alaric in this is like he is in Canon a genetic experiment by the Wolves mixing Katherine's, Vlads and Victor's DNA in a canister to build a new Trueborn. Unlike the Canon Alaric he never met any of his DNA donors instead he's pure Wolf so he won't be as adaptable as the Canon one otherwise I'll not say much else on him for now
You TOTALLY realize that to SONS of Katherine Steiner-Davion who maybe on opposing sides are just asking to have epic encounter in years ahead. right? >:D
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You TOTALLY realize that to SONS of Katherine Steiner-Davion who maybe on opposing sides are just asking to have epic encounter in years ahead. right? >:D
Yup
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Excellent updates as always! And Alaric's on the rise eh? :D
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Excellent updates as always! And Alaric's on the rise eh? :D
Thanks, just an earlier and different path for him
Presentation Ceremony, Algonquin Theatre
Jefferson City, Freedom
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
8th February 3115
The arena was filled with twelve thousand people assembled on a triple tier which faced down on a single display podium. The owner and announcer of the Algonquin Theatre Wolfgang Bogdanow was both nervous and excited today various companies were showing off the new Mechs which were being presented to the defenders of Freedom with Duke Brandt Simons-Steiner here in person to accept them. Recently Freedom had been a nervous world with the Rasalhague Dominion and Clans Jade Falcon, Hell’s Horses and Coyote all bearing down towards the planet and Brandt Simons-Steiner’s brother Bodeven had been making noise about taking a more proactive position in defence against the Clans. In response Brandt had spent money from the Simons-Steiner coffers and was now bringing in a new mixed battalion of forces for the defenders including many new Clan Mechs. The presentation here at the Algonquin Theatre would put the site and Bogdanow on the map and bring in plenty money in the coming months.
Now the first Mech a BattleMaster 6C was being presented with its twin cockpit the most stand out feature the Command Console mounted in the head of the BattleMech providing superior command capabilities. The BattleMaster was an old design but still a favourite across the Inner Sphere which constantly adapted to the changing environment of the Inner Sphere, this version of the venerable Mech featured twin pulse lasers and a short-range missile launcher which provided close in firepower while medium to long range firepower was provided by four light autocannons. The eighty-five-ton BattleMech turned slowly showing everyone its firepower. At the back of the Mech there were two extended range small lasers which would add further defence to the Mech. Because of the half circle design of the Algonquin Theatre the crowd were able to get closer to the eighty-five-ton Mech than most people could be while being safe due to the Solaris VII-style energy barriers which were employed around the entire arena.
As the applause rang out Wolfgang Bogdanow spoke “Ladies and gentlemen, from a venerable giant to an invader’s Mech which now serves in our defence.” He said as the BattleMaster thumped out of the arena a far smaller design walked in. Weighing in at thirty-five tons the hunched over Puma BattleMech painted in the black, silver and brown of Clan Wolf stood proud in front of them all. The crowd murmured as the OmniMech extended its arms stretching like a human would “the Puma S is a design we will be employing in the future to defend our cities from intrusion and for hunting down Clan Elementals.” Wolfgang said the Mech was equipped with multiple pulse lasers in the arms but that was not the most horrifying aspect of the Mech, sixteen machine guns covered the arms and torso of the Mech making the Mech more than capable of cutting down multiple infantry soldiers or Battle Armoured troopers in moments. The Mech turned slowly on the platform flexing its arms and twisting its torso giving people the full experience of the light Mech. “Built by Clan Mountain Wolf on Gallery the Puma is…” he began to explain more about the Mech when he saw the energy barrier stutter and then suddenly fail “…oh my…” He said his words failing him “ladies and gentlemen, no need to worry we’ve had a minor technical hitch but you’re perfectly safe…” he began to say as the Puma continued its routine but then stopped when facing the Royal box. For a moment time seemed to slow as the Puma’s machine guns, pulse lasers and torso mounted flame thrower opened fire with a thunderous noise cutting down the duke, his immediate family and hundreds of civilians who were caught in the attack as the Puma’s pilot specifically targeted the area with bullets and pulse laser fire.
Wolfgang Bogdanow knew he was ruined by the sudden and deadly attack but he’d be a patriot and seal in the Puma long enough to slow it and allow the militia to arrive and arrest the pilot. Turning to reach for the emergency lockdown button in his control room Bogdanow’s thoughs of financial ruin and his control over his arms failed him in an instant as a burning white vibroblade sliced through his back and penetrated his chest. For a moment Wolfgang Bogdanow stared down at the blade, his thoughts escaping him as he looked at the weapon and knew the result and then he slipped into unconsciousness and death.
“One, Two, your clear control eliminated.” The power armoured assassin said allowing the body to fall to the floor her feminine voice and body movement clear even through the power armour. As she spoke the Puma continued to fire with its arms now turning on staff and guards from around the building showering more areas of the theatre in heavy machine gun fire.
“Received, link up with Three and evacuate.” The other person replied as the Puma ceased fire the theatre was on fire, there were hundreds of casualties in the stands and hundreds more scrambling for cover while there were thousands of shell casings at the OmniMech’s feet. “Four, Five, I am evacuating.”
“Understood One, the militia are all over the place answering calls you’ll only have a flight of ready VTOLs and some Battle Armour to contend with.” Four replied the pilot did not like the sound of that but didn’t respond instead he turned the OmniMech and ran down the late night streets of Jefferson City. Around the Theatre hundreds of private vehicles were trying to get clear of the scene of the attack jamming the roads for ground vehicles. The thirty-five ton OmniMech was not going to be stopped by traffic jams though and ran through the parked vehicles smashing them to the side or crushing them as it went.
“This thing might be Clan Tech but remember I don’t have the range.” The pilot said continuing to run the small Clan Mech down through the streets towards the harbour.
“For once you don’t need it, I’ve got you covered” another voice said over the comms.
“We’ve got lift off from city base four VTOLs all different models” another of the team reported. “They’ll be with you in a couple of minutes.
“I’ll be near the harbour by then, Dominic, feel free to chime in when you’re ready.” One said breaking their codes.
“Command sent” he replied from several roof tops long range missile and autocannon batteries began to fire into the air at the incoming VTOLs and down at the militia base. The weapons fire was damaging buildings and starting mini-fires across the downtown city. Each of them had been hacked to fire on automation until they were out of ammunition.
“You’re clear Bounty Hunter, they will not brave that storm of weapons fire, you’re clear, we’ll see you after extraction.”
“Affirmative, thanks for the assist” Christopher Grant aka the Bounty Hunter replied smashing his Puma through the gate to the harbour and down one of the piers he ignored the small arms fire directed at his Mech as he threw the Mech off the end of the pier and sunk into the depths of the harbour. Within a minute the Mech was safely on the floor of the harbour its hull perfectly sealed for this kind of operation he reached over to a detonator control he’d attached to the side of the cockpit and pressed the button detonating explosive they’d placed on the bottom of several of the ships. As the ships began to sink throwing cargo and people into the water and stirring up the sediment at the base of the water obscuring movement below the waves, this covered his escape into the depths of Freedom’s ocean.
With the Duke dead a power struggle made up of his supporters against those of his brother began on Freedom driving the world into a state of civil war as the local militia was overwhelmed by multiple forces on different sides. During the following days the Bounty Hunter’s team evacuated with hundreds of other civilians’ intent on escaping the world before things got really bad while for a week Christopher Grant survived on combat rations as he walked his Puma across the ocean bed to a small island. Emerging at night the Mech was guided across the beach and into a cargo container he then dismounted from the OmniMech and headed to a local motel where he already had a booking. For a week the Bounty Hunter remained in the motel keeping a low profile as Freedom continued to go through the pains of losing its leader.
While Freedom was an important world to the Isle of Skye the sudden loss of its Duke had destabilized the world. The Bounty Hunter then left on a DropShip bound for Skye his Puma, which would form part of his team’s payment for this job, would be shipped off the world separately or his employer would send him a new one if it wasn’t possible to send that particular Mech. Either way the job was done and Christopher Grant was off to his next challenge.
Border Raid
Sarna, Lee PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
9th February 3115
Madison Liao, Duchess of Andurien, Daughter of Dao-Shen Liao, screamed in anger as the flames consumed her BattleMech and the autocannon fire tore down the left arm of her Cataphract BattleMech. She had chosen Sarna as a target for her unit’s raid against the Federated Suns but unfortunately the Clinton’s Cutthroats mercenary command which defended the world had been ready for them and were making her people pay for every inch of territory they captured. Now a Cutthroats Legionnaire BattleMech was chewing her Mech’s left hand side to pieces with its rotary autocannon and inferno equipped short range missiles. The Cataphract was a traditional Capellan design which had been reborn with new technology she twisted the Mech’s turret-styled torso to track the Legionnaire firing her Mech’s gauss rifle in an attempt to knock down the lighter Mech unfortunately the Legionnaire was too fast for her shot and the supersonic slug went wide tearing up the ground behind the fifty-ton BattleMech. Now in behind her more autocannon blasts tore into the rear left torso of the Mech breaching the armour and damaging a heat sink mounted there. Horrible green black fluid exploded from her Mech’s torso running to the ground Madison triggered both of her Mech’s rear mounted medium lasers scoring two hits on the running Legionnaire a small victory and one that only caused minimal damage. Already the Legionnaire was running past her Mech’s back now hitting the back of her right leg and arm but mercifully missing the torso and the gauss rifle mounted there. Two short range missiles flew past the Cataphract’s position thankfully missing her Mech which already was struggling with heat build up from the pervious strike and exploded on the ground throwing inferno jelly everywhere. Moments later Madison’s relief turned to horror as she realized the missiles had not missed and were not meant for her and she saw four battle armoured troopers walk from the flames their armour ablaze the soldiers literally being cooked alive in their armour. Three of the troopers had the wits about them to drop to the ground and try to knock off the jelly but it was to no effect and none of the squad survived the strike.
Even more angry at seeing members of her unit killed by an opponent she hadn’t been able to defeat Madison Liao twisted the Cataphract to her right-hand side and unleashed both her Mech’s gauss rifle and particle cannon in an attempt to strike down the Legionnaire. If only one weapon could hit her enemy, she’d have preferred it to be the gauss rifle with its kinetic striking power the weapon could take an arm or leg completely off the enemy medium Mech unfortunately only the particle cannon struck home damaging more armour on the still fast-moving enemy. Madison moved her stance and fired both variable speed pulse lasers but neither hit the target as the Legionnaire turned on her again the over head autocannon roared to life as did its arm mounted short range missile launcher.
As autocannon munitions exploded all over her Mech’s torso several shots hit her Mech’s head rattling Madison’s teeth as she was thrown around the cockpit. She had no way to prepare for the two short range missiles exploding directly in front of her showering her BattleMech with another salvo of inferno jelly. The heat levels spiked inside the Cataphract’s cockpit as her Mech’s heat sinks struggled then failed to deal with the rising heat. Madison like all all MechWarriors wore as little clothing as possible and a coolant vest to help deal with the heat produced inside the BattleMech during battle but even these measures did little to help as the temperature skyrocketed. In all of her twenty years Madison Liao had never felt such heat but giving into it was the last thing she could do she slapped the system shutdown override and tried to breath while commanding the seventy-ton Mech to move and try to knock off some of the inferno jelly all while trying to track the Legionnaire.
While she multi-tasked she suddenly melt something off, something burning, she checked the external filters but they had reacted to the external fire and were closed. She glanced around the cockpit even as more autocannon fire raked down her Mech for no she could probably survive the autocannon rounds if there was fire in her cockpit, she’d be dead in seconds. Glancing upwards she saw it one of the autocannon rounds had penetrated the cockpit’s frame breaching it and now she was smelling the fumes coming from the fire outside. Confident there was no fire inside the cockpit she turned back to the fight at hand just as the Legionnaire charged in close to her and swung one of its balled fist hands up, she’d been still trying to locate the source of the smell and given up her situational awareness an easy mistake to make for a young pilot. It was at this moment that Duchess Madison Liao realized she could do nothing as the Legionnaire’s left then right fist slammed into the Cataphract’s body first came a blow to the chest which ravaged and smashed the armour while the other slammed into the Cataphract’s faceplate. Fifty tons of attacking BattleMech slammed its fist through the cockpit even if the cockpit armour had not already been damaged it would have likely killed the pilot, the fist punched through the head armour into the cockpit crushing Madison Liao in her command chair. As the Clinton’s Cutthroat’s Legionnaire withdrew its fist from the Cataphract’s Mech and without control the Mech collapsed in a heap. The mercenary pilot knew nothing about the pilot they had killed and ran off after the next target as Madison Liao lay dead on the field within hours the invaders had retreated from the world in disarray carrying word of the Duchess death back to the Capellan Confederation.
Throne Room,
Crimson, Salonika
Canopus, Magistracy of Canopus
17th February 3115
Entering the Throne Room of House Centrella on the world of Canopus Commanding-General Victor Focht was glad to see the joint guard of two Royal Black Watch and two Centrella Rangers warriors snap to attention in unison. They had not been together for long but already appeared to realize that the best way for them to do their jobs was to work as a team, which was the whole point behind the Star League Defence Force. For seventeen years Victor Focht had served as Commanding-General of the Star League and he’d never been to the Centrella family’s royal residence nor even Canopus. It was a beautiful if humid world with rolling hills and forests which covered the deep mines that dotted the landscape. Wearing his regular duty green uniform Victor approached the Magestix who sat on her golden throne waiting for him. Magestix Ilsa Centrella was a beautiful woman now approaching her forty-second birthday she wore a gleaming green dress which fit her athletic body well and had golden threads running through it, on her head she wore matching green jewels which framed her head and fit in nicely with her dark skin hair. As he approached the throne Victor saluted the Magestix and First Lord, she would be his immediate superior for her term as First Lord.
“Welcome to Crimson” Ilsa said as he approached “I hope you find the facilities we are providing your people here on our capital?”
“Affirmative First Lord they are very impressive facilities and they have good access ways to all of the cities main transport routes.” He said appreciative of the Magistracy’s efforts to make them comfortable “I must say I was impressed with your efforts to repair the shipyards in this system they are coming on well.”
“Thank you, my engineers will appreciate your praise I am sure, we could not continue to rely solely on the Trznadel Cluster Shipyards to provide transport for our realm first the Alliance Aerospace Group’s Bass Shipyards were brought online and now we are closing on having the Diamond Garter Shipyards operational for the first time since the First Star League almost completely destroyed them during the Reunification War.” She said Focht knew exactly what the point she was making was; that the Magistracy was rebuilding to its previous strength with or without the SLDF’s help. “What is the status of the SLDF at present?”
“The largest expansion of the SLDF in many years is underway the Knights Corps has officially been activated within its ranks.”
“The Knights Corps?” She asked not familiar with the formation.
“At present it stands at twenty combined-arms battalions each made up of a company of Mechs, armour and battle armour supported by some aerospace units. These commands are led by a Knight of the Star League Protectorate and each of these Knights comes from a member world of the Protectorate. Their mission is to promote the message of peace throughout the Star League nations and help resolve conflicts and assist local defenders in preparing to protect their own land instead of relying on external forces to save them.” He explained “the SLDF’s plan is for there to be a formation active for every Protectorate world.”
“Every world? There are over seventy systems currently claimed by the Protectorate.”
“Almost ninety now with Ruchbah, Basalt and Kawich in the Federated Suns, Hamilton in the Free Worlds League and both Shiloh and Pheoda from the Lyran Commonwealth all choosing to join the Protectorate this year.” He explained “the SLDF is dedicated to their defence and while each planet will be provided for with Militia Guard forces the Exarch believed that it was time that the SLDF had a unifying force which could provide additional political and diplomatic powers to deployed commands and systems that needed it the Knights will provide this support. Each Knight will carry the authority to speak for the Star League Defence Force and the Exarch of the Protectorate worlds giving them much political and resources support. The Exarch sees them as the Star League’s olive branch force, capable of bringing some peace and security as well as a fighting force.” He explained alone a single battalion was not a lot of troops but if one of the Knight forces arrived on a planet most nations would learn that they were the lead elements of a far larger force. Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion had instructed that the Knights Corps do not lead assault forces but instead act as their own travelling support force picking their own destinations and helping where they could, almost like a state sponsored mercenary force.
“And with all this spent on the Protectorate how much will be spent on other nations defence, such as those of your new First Lord?” She asked probing, “she like all of the other House Lords? Those that keep your Protectorate relevant and do not rip it to pieces.” She asked barely concealing the threat despite the Magistracy having not claim to threaten the Protectorate.
“Magestix Centrella” Victor Focht said intentionally dropping her title of First Lord. “Already SLDF Engineering Teams have landed on Gallis and are gathering resources that will see them build the largest supply and support facility in this entire region. The Royal Black Watch and naval forces have also entered your realm to support you and help your nation, the Magistracy of Canopus will benefit greatly from the SLDF’s presence. At present the SLDF’s main force are moving to help counter Clan threats from Clans Jade Falcon, Hell’s Horses, Snow Raven, Nova Cat and Wolf while all of them press Inner Sphere and periphery targets.” He explained as the SLDF primarily tried to function as a shield for the Inner Sphere.
Already this week we have seen three more Federated Suns worlds fall to the Snow Raven advance while AFFS defenders had narrowly defended the system of Woodbine from falling. There were numerous rumours that there was a split in the AFFS hampering defensive efforts.”
“So, no more forces a shame.”
“For now, no while you prosecute an attack on a nearby SLDF ally further support may take some time.” Victor Focht warned, on Terra the Advisory council had raised concerns with the Commanding-General that the Magistracy would try to use SLDF forces against their allies in the Free Worlds League, something Victor would not allow was for his people to get drawn into a regional conflict.
Border raids
Jade Falcon OZ
21st February 3115
In an attempt to force back Clan Jade Falcon forces away from the Coventry system Lyran Commonwealth forces supported by mercenary commands and two SLDF Regimental Brigades assault the worlds of Krievci, Incukalns, Zanderji and Atocongo with an aim to liberating these four systems. Unfortunately, Lyran scouts heading into the Krievci and Inckalns systems detect that in both systems the Jade Falcons have WarShips waiting for the incoming forces including a Battleship in each system. Fearing heavy losses before they even made landfall Lyran commanders call off the attacks on both systems instead fortifying Coventry from attack.
The attacks on Zanderji and Atocongo however are a complete success as Lyran and SLDF forces invade both systems the 1894th Regimental Brigade of the SLDF splitting its forces to support the Nineteenth Arcturan Guards to retake both systems. In both cases however the Lyrans find Clan Sea Fox defenders with the Jade Falcons completely gone from both systems the Sea Foxes agree to fight honour trials for both worlds allowing for minimal losses on both sides. Due to the cordial nature of the engagements the Lyrans and SLDF troops learn from the Foxes that the Jade Falcons have turned over Esteros, Bountiful Harvest, A Place and Morges to Sea Fox forces leaving them only with Sudeten in the region cutting Sudeten completely off from the rest of the Occupation Zone. While it is a strategy that none of the Inner Sphere realms would be comfortable it does not concern the Falcons as none of the other Clans around them are primarily naval Clans and do not have enough ships to enforce a blockade, while having the Falcons can also use the rite of Safcon to allow for uninterrupted travel. Meanwhile Lyran and Star League Intelligence scratch their heads and search nearby systems for the garrisons of the four systems which the Jade Falcons had moved without them realizing.
Planetary Administrator’s Office
Gallery, New Stockholm
Halfway Province, Lyran Commonwealth
26th February 3115
It was cold on Gallery as the world descended into its winter season but then the windswept surface of Gallery was always cold and inhospitable Riko Danvers, the Scientist-General of the Mountain Wolf Clan, hated the world and he hated the Lyran Commonwealth for placing them there. Apparently, the world’s defences had never been breached it was a natural fortress with hundreds of tunnels underground many of which led nowhere a labyrinth under the cold surface. Unknown to the Lyrans since the remains of the Mountain Wolves had made Gallery their home, they had converted several of the tunnels to their own uses.
Placing his thick wolf fur lined jacket over his leather desk chair Riko Danvers immediately felt like he was being watched spinning around to his right quickly he drew a laser pistol from its shoulder holster. He always carried a weapon and knew how to use it as he didn’t trust the Mountain Wolf warriors not to turn on him someday even if most of them were too inexperienced or too many years old to challenge him.
“Hello Riko” the figure said sitting on the chair in the far darkened corner of the room even from here he could tell it was a female wearing a Wolf warrior’s duty uniform. Even in the darkness that his much of her face he could see her bright red hair which he guessed she’d modelled after Natasha Kerensky like so many had over the years. It took him several moments to realize who the woman was she’d aged more than the years that had passed he could now see as his eyes adjusted to the darkness that her left eye had been replaced with a cybernetic one which was coloured blue like her natural eye.
“Misara is that you?” He asked slowly moving his finger from the laser pistol’s trigger.
“Aff, Riko, it is good to see you again.”
“And you, how did you get here?”
“I arrived in the Inner Sphere approximately six months ago and I arrived on Gallery with the Sea Fox transport this morning.”
“Our people are in the Sea Fox Clan?” He asked it was a revaluation to him, he hadn’t realized there were potential allies so close. Each cell of their society was locked off from the others with contact kept to a minimum.
“Our people are everywhere. I take it that things are progressing well here, quiaff?”
“Affirmative, the Kharon and Puma S sales continue to bring in resources for the Mountain Wolves resources that we continue to use to develop new weapons to target our enemies." He said naming the BattleMech and OmniMech which the Mountain Wolves primarily produced on Gallery the majority of their current production was sold to the Commonwealth and to the Fire Mandrills in the Rim Collection. "We have also finished work on a new Long Range Missile carrier to support ground forces and sell to our hosts in the Commonwealth. As they have Clans on every border, they buy lots of weapons and ask little questions it has been quite a boon for our people.”
“And your control over the warriors?”
“Absolute” he said confidently even though he didn’t trust them he knew he controlled them. “When the majority of the Clan rejoined Clan Wolf it devastated our ability to maintain the genetic diversity needed for a Trueborn program as a result we have an increased number of freeborns in our Touman, few of which have the political knowledge to challenge the status quo.” He explained “a few of our younger members have agitated under the exile we have found ourselves in on this world desiring to fight and defeat enemies of the Mountain Wolves and of the Lyran people but we have been able to keep these desires in check with their able leaders falling to unfortunate accidents.”
“And the warriors have not questioned these accidents, quineg?”
“When most of them are near the end of their career or just out of their cannister they barely have any idea on what is going on.” He said confidently finally putting the pistol away and moving around his desk “we control the Mountain Wolves entirely as you do the Homeworlds.”
“Not quite” she admitted looking at the floor for a moment “the Clans continue to resist efforts in the Homeworlds and our people have been unable to draw them into a final conflict.” She said “instead we believe we need to use what you have researched here in your special section” she explained Riko Danvers eyes widened in surprise, while he had tried to get the Lyrans to use the weapon when they hadn’t they’d given the go ahead he’d drawn back from its development, “we will target a population centre on Fasa, somewhere we know they will be and have it run through their population.”
“It… it has not been tested like that, it was not part of the plan we had aimed to target the Iron Wombs, I have no idea what the effect will be on a primarily freeborn population.” He stammered shocked at what she had suggested his people had developed the weapon yes but to release them into a general population had not been part of the plan instead they had planned to release it into their enemies Iron Wombs slaughtering their future generations and contaminating their Bloodlines one at a time.
“Then test it!” She nearly shouted her anger boiling he was sure her cybernetic eye glowed red for a moment to reflect her rising temper. “We need to know that it will effectively pass from person to person and between worlds, this is most important Riko we need that data we need it to hurt them.”
“I will have my people do simulations and give us data.”
“Simulations?” Misara laughed out loud “you are in the Inner Sphere Riko Danvers you have a wealth of worlds to target… pick one, but do not get caught.” She warned rising from the chair “I’ll return soon Riko, you had better get that data for us, time is short for all of us. Now your continued life depends on it.” She warned him “otherwise if you are unable to pick a target, I will ensure that one of my people release your little plague here among your population and we’ll get the data anyway.” She threatened leaving the room before he could get answer. He couldn’t track her down without rising suspicion and she knew it, he needed to work fast or everything he’d built here would come crashing down around him.
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Naval Battle, Sovereign (Sovereign-class Carrier)
Winfield, Woodbine PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
28th February 3115
Two Clan Snow Raven WarShips had jumped into the Winfield system surprising a Federated Suns WarShips and the Fourth Crucis Lancers RCT who were preparing for an attack against the Raven Alliance. This attack was designed to distract the AFFS as Snow Raven forces launched an attack on Kilbourne tying up AFFS forces while the Ravens invaded. The combined firepower of the Ravens had destroyed the FSS Bravery, a Federated Suns First Prince II-class Battleship, and now they were hunting down the ground forces DropShips.
Standing on the bridge of the Snow Raven vessel Sovereign, the first Sovereign-class Carrier which had been commissioned into the Snow Raven navy, Star Captain Hakke Sukhanov watched the Federated Suns counter-attack unfold. In the Snow Raven Touman Hakke Sukhanov was considered to be a Ristar and had been tipped as a potential warrior for Khanship in the future for himself Hakke Sukhanov ignored such claims. “Warn the Spartan that the Federated Suns have assault transports in that attack, they should expect boarding parties!” He warned watching the AFFS LAM and aerospace fighter force throw themselves into their attack against the Spartan and its aerospace wing “instruct our fighters to assist them!” He commanded the Sovereign had moved around the wreckage of the Bravery and it was attempting to get back into position to support the other Raven WarShip which was when the Fourth had launched its attack ‘they know they are done for but they intend on making us pay for it.’ Sukhanov thought watching as DropShips followed the fighters and LAMs with enough forces in an area a ship could get onto a WarShip and if they did that then all bets were off.
“Helm bring us into a broadside position with the Spartan” Sukhanov commanded as the vessel began to approach the ongoing battle “weapons to target their DropShips, bring them all down” he said watching as LAMs landed on the Spartan converting into their Mech configuration they targeted the vessel’s hull opening it for Battle Armoured troopers to drop directly from the DropShips into the vessel. The Sovereign’s weapons brought down three DropShips in rapid succession but the damage was done and Sukhanov could see the Spartan had now been boarded by dozens of Battle Armour troopers. These brave soldiers had sacrificed themselves distracting the Ravens from finishing off the other ground forces less than two combined regiments would escape the Raven attack crippling the RCT but now the Ravens were about to pay an unacceptable cost. Watching the attack continue Sukhanov breathed deeply before speaking “weapons target the Spartan with an intent of destroying the vessel.” He commanded for several moments afterwards you could hear a pin drop on the command deck but the crew did as he asked. Sukhanov continued to be focused on the Holotank image watching as the Spartan began to slowly list to the port suggesting that there had been an interruption to helm control. “Anything on the status of the crew?”
“Continued fighting onboard Star Captain Sukhanov some explosions are coming from within the vessel.” One of the bridge crew suggested as data continued to be gathered on the seven hundred-and-ten thousand ton WarShip. They were sitting less than three kilometres from the ship and the Sovereign was powerless to assist their Clankin on the other vessel. Both ships had been damaged in the fight with the Bravery but they should have been able to resist the ground forces counter-assault, the crew of the Spartan should not have allowed them to get close enough to board their ship, as the more heavily armed vessel the Spartan had been the ship that they had targeted Sukhanov was impressed by their bravery after seeing their WarShip destroyed by Snow Raven fire.
“Loss of contact with Spartan bridge crew!”
“Continued fighting onboard the ship!”
“LAM craft abandoning the vessel and turning towards us!”
Rapid fire reports came through the bridge one by one as Sukhanov stood and watched AFFS forces were attempting to turn their attention now on the Sovereign classing the Spartan as no longer a threat which meant one of two things. Firstly, that the Spartan had been captured by the invaders or secondly that the vessel was close to destruction Sukhanov had already decided that if the first had happened then he was going to ensure that the second eventuality also happened.
“Gunnery crews, defend us from incoming threats with conventional and sub-capital weapons” Sukhanov ordered “none of them are to close on our vessel.” He initially ordered “communications try Spartan’s bridge again.”
“No communications, sir, it is possible the transceiver has been damaged.” The crewman suggested but Sukhannov could see that the Spartan was no longer firing on AFFS targets allowing the remaining fighters to concentrate on the Snow Raven fighters in the area.
“General broadcast for our forces” Sukhanov ordered then after a moment “all Snow Raven vessels in the vicinity of the Spartan clear the space, I repeat clear the space, any Sovereign crew receiving this message are ordered to abandon their ship.” He said allowing the message to be passed out and understood he watched as the Spartan continued to spin showing no sense of control. There was also more importantly no counter command to his from the ship, the crew of the Spartan unable to answer him, which made his next decision easier “weapons positions, fire at will on the Spartan, destroy that ship.”
While weapons fire continued to be directed in the defence of the Sovereign from incoming aerospace forces the majority of the WarShips weapons now turned onto their former sister ship. Naval versions of the BattleMech’s particle cannon spat out from the Sovereign’s weapons positions and tore through the Spartan’s armoured hull. At this range it was impossible for the crewmen to miss the uncontrolled vessel and particle cannon blasts burned away the armour plate by plate tearing pieces off of the vessel. Able to coordinate and concentrate their fire the gunners onboard the Sovereign penetrated the Spartan’s armour within two salvos exploiting damage already done by the FSS Bravery and the boarding actions. Close to the hull of the Spartan a Federated Suns Stinger LAM was vapourized for being in the wrong place at the wrong times as a particle cannon blast tore through the fighter as it slammed into the WarShip beyond. While the inside of a WarShip was designed to resist damage like the outside of the vessel there was only so much that the vessel could take and the continuous attack by the Sovereign took its tole on the ship. Even as the Sovereign continued to fire the Spartan’s reactors lost containment and the vessel was consumed by an expanding fireball with explosions sending parts of the Spartan across the jump point. In time those fragments would fall into Kilbourne’s star and burn up one last time.
With the destruction of the Spartan complete and the Sovereign’s defences holding the remains of the Fourth Crucis Lancers scattered attempting to return to the surface of the planet their forces harried all the way. The Sovereign recovered as many survivors as they could from the Spartan, the remaining aerospace fighters and surviving DropShips before leaving the system. From Winfield the surviving elements of the Fourth Crucis Lancers travelled and joined the First Crucis Lancers on Woodbine combining with that command.
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Major oof. Is there stats for the new Carrier?
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Major oof. Is there stats for the new Carrier?
Both ships are here they've been around for a bit just little action
https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=3369.0 (https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=3369.0)
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Excellent stuff and it seems House Davion's getting a bit of a kicking at the moment due to them being dogpiled.
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TAG'd
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Throne Room
Imperial City, New Samarkand
Draconis March, Federated Suns
1st March 3115
Standing in front of Coordinator Hirohito Kurita, the leader of the Draconis Combine, Gunji-no-Kanrei Kaimoto Inokashira knew that he had failed and that his life was forfeit. The Coordinator could not spare him for this most recent failure he and the Coordinator had been successful many times recently but this failure was unacceptable. Standing with his head bowed lower than he normally would Kaimoto delivered the end of his report.
“While we have success in the Glenmora, Tallmage and Fairfield systems, New Ivaarsen, Dobson and Le Blanc. Glenmora, Tallmage and Fairfield systems and we have retaken Benjamin and the Ludwig system. Unfortunately, the District of Dieron seized Umjiri, Katapha and Junction before our troops could move in.” Kaimoto Inokashira said bowing even lower the failure to seize three systems before the break away district was another failure which the Coordinator was making him retell.
“The status on Benjamin?”
“After four years of Federated Suns occupation” Inokashira reported from his extended bow “there is little on Benjamin that resembles the world that was taken. The Federated Suns levelled Fort Shadra, destroyed the Osaka Training Fields and we believe moved the Whitworth Specialty Manufacturing Complex to an unknown location along with the relocation of all of the companies registered employees.” He said making his report the loss of the factory was a minor one the design had not kept up with modern advances in technology if the Federated Suns wished to waste resources in continuing to build them the Coordinator would not stop them.
“Continue” he commanded not leaving his throne chair
“The lack of resistance in the so-called Benjamin Salient was explained when our forces entered the New Ivaarsen system…” Inokashira said pausing still remained in his bowed position unsure if the Combine wished to hear the rest.
“Continue, in your own words Gunji-no-Kanrei”
“Hai!” He said answered his Coordinator’s command “on entering the New Ivaarsen system we expected to encounter a WarShip and both New Ivaarsen Regiments.” He explained “intelligence failed to notice that the Davion Assault Guards and Davion Light Guards were also transiting the system after being driven back by our forces.” He said trying to make it sound like a victory unfortunately the both knew that the Federated Suns had given up Benjamin due to the Draconis Combine threatening Robinson. “The Federated Suns forces were prepared for us and fell on the DCS Vincent Kurita, the DCS Osumi and the DCS Shohei Maru. While our vessels did destroy one of the Federated Suns WarShips and several DropShips all three vessels were forced to sacrifice themselves to save our JumpShips and ground forces. Our ground forces have returned to our territory and are ready to join the assault on Robinson.”
“Which now teeters on the brink of being impossible thanks to the presence of these elite RCTs and their WarShips being within jumping distance. How did intelligence fail to realize that the Federated Suns units had retreated from Benjamin?”
“We believe the Federated Suns employed a ruse similar to that of what the Draconis Combine did during the Clan War when facing Clans Smoke Jaguar and Star Adder. They employed minefields, fixed artillery, dozens of IndustrialMechs and modified vehicles to man fire bases to make them appear to be fully defended when in fact they were not. While Special Forces teams were employed to in fact strike at the invasion forces early and get their attention before disappearing into the wilderness.”
“I want them hunted down and killed.”
“Several teams have already been killed they made no attempt to surrender or escape the world instead attacking our people when they encountered them, we believe the AFFS left them behind intentionally, this was a suicide mission.”
“You know what these losses mean to the Draconis Combine?” Coordinator Hirohito Kurita asked the man remained bowed and did not answer. “By your order you have caused the deaths of thousands of our people and by your order you will wipe the stain from our nation. Disband the Vincent Kurita Naval Flotilla as your last act as my Gunji-no-Kanrei and then you know what must be done?”
“Hai!” He answered simply the Coordinator was allowing him the honourable way out to pass one last set of orders and then to commit seppuku, the final act of a disgraced warrior ritual suicide.
“Then be gone, fulfil my orders.” He ordered hours later the Gunji-no-Kanrei was dead by his own hands and those of his closest aide. Over the course of the next few days more than a dozen of his personnel staff had also committed seppuku for their failures to the Gunji-no-Kanrei, to the Coordinator and to the Draconis Combine. By the order of Coordinator Hirohito Kurita, the former commander of the Ghost Regimental Division Marissa Michika became the new Gunji-no-Kanrei of the Draconis Combine making her the first woman to hold the post.
Trial of Possession
The Rack, Stone Spirit Territory
3rd March 3115
Following attacks into their territory Clan Sea Fox punish the Lyran Commonwealth in several ways firstly they withdraw their entire trade fleet from the Lyran Commonwealth sending it into the nations surrounding the Commonwealth. Even Stone Spirit space which was considered to be little more than a bandit kingdom by the Clans saw Sea Fox traders appear on their worlds following the withdrawal from Lyran space with the Clansmen even honouring the Stone Spirits with an honour trial in The Rack system where the Seventh Cruiser Cluster win control over the system. The Sea Fox’s first action once gaining control of the system is to rename it Port Vail, the name in which the world had been known during the First Star League.
While not classed as a trade embargo officially without Sea Fox traders inside their nation the only Clan technology available in Lyran merchants is that which is produced in the Lyran Commonwealth, mainly by the Mountain Wolves, and that which is taken in combat.
Capellan Raid-in-Force, Outside City of Argo
New Aragon, Bell PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
9th March 3115
“With respect Duchess, we must retreat from this world!” Jiang-jun Dan Gun said looking at the Duchess. Gun was the former commander of the Eighth Capellan Armoured Cavalry. Former because the Eighth had fallen on this world to the guns of the Fifth Syrtis Fusiliers RCT and several mercenary bands that harried them. Off to the side Jiang-jun Niklas Turunen the commander of Duchess Zeia Liao’s own Red Lancers stood off shaking his head warning Gun that Zeia Liao was not in the mood for this argument.
“No Jiang-jun, with your surviving forces and those of the Nineteenth Liao Lancers the ranks of the Red Lancers have swelled we have more than enough forces to destroy the Fifth Fusiliers once and for all!” She said angrily turning towards the planning table in the which sat in the centre of their circular command tent.
Duchess Zeia Liao had led three Capellan Confederation regiments supported by two WarShips through four Davion held systems crushing militia and mercenary forces along the way in a tour of destruction retaliating against the Federated Suns for the death of her sister Madison. But here on New Aragon the rage that the Capellans felt had burned out as they encountered an elite AFFS unit which was more than ready for them and equipped for an extended battle. The Fifth was dug into several positions on New Aragon around the capital city of Argo the Regimental Combat Team had held firm when confronted by the Capellan Forces knocking them back during their counter-assault. The Fifth had then done what elite forces were capable of and turned a defence into a full offensive pushing through Capellan defences as their counter-attack turned into a full line assault. The charging Davion forces had first turned their attackers left flank which was held by the Nineteenth Liao Lancers. The unit had crumbled under sustained heavy fire with its survivors streaming through the lines of the other Capellan regiments in disarray with the Fifth behind them baying for Capellan blood. With the forces so intermingled the Capellan naval forces in the system were unable to interfere with the ground battle for fear of destroying their own Duchess the Eighth Cavalry had blunted the Fifth’s rampage through Capellan lines but the damage was done combined the Nineteenth or Eighth could field no more than two combined arms battalions less than a quarter of their original strength. The Red Lancers had gotten off lighter and now stood even stronger than their original strength with the inclusion of the survivors from the other units.
As Zeia Liao stepped back towards the table the Duchess nor her bodyguards saw what was coming next as Dan Gun at fifty-two years of age swung a lighting fast chop which struck the back of Zeia Liao’s neck. The blow struck the short lightly built woman and she crumpled into a heap unconscious but alive, just as Dan Gun had planned. Behind him two guards drew their weapons and fired several shots into his back several of which penetrated his personal armour and body. As he sunk to his knees Dan Gun knew that his life was soon to end, he looked up at Niklas Turunen as blood began to trickle down his face from his mouth. “You’re in command now, do the right thing, protect our duchess.” He whispered before several more bullets hit his body ending his life. He whispered before slumping to the ground dead. A medical team rushed in to tend for their duchess who still laid unconscious. Within hours all Capellan forces on planet were abandoning their defences and returning to their DropShips leaving New Aragon with DropShips, fighters and naval gunfire protecting their retreat and keeping the Fifth Syrtis Fusiliers RCT back. Liao Madness had brought the Capellans to this system and now the bravery of one man, who knew his life was over after he watched his regiment fall, had acted to ensure that some of the attack forces could escape.
In retaliation to the Fifth’s resistance on New Aragon and his daughter’s death fighting Clinton’s Cutthroats, Chancellor Dao-Shen Liao orders a surgical strike against Sarna targeting the unit that had killed Madison Liao. In the Inner Sphere where engagements between nations and planets were so common sons and daughters died every day but rarely were those losses felt so high up in a nation’s leadership. On the 19th March 3115 two unidentified Capellan Confederation WarShips jumped into the Sarna system bombarding six separate AFFS military bases intent on crushing the Clinton’s Cutthroats and any other resistance on the planet. Thousands died in the bombardment with several wildfires started in the Sarna mountains that would go on for weeks after the attack but unfortunately for the Capellan forces the Cutthroats had already left the system. Instead, the Capellan WarShips found they themselves under attack as dozens of capital missiles were fired from the surface of Sarna at the two vessels fired from silos buried deep within the mountains of Sarna. Both vessels sustained several missile hits each but they were able to retreat before AFFS forces could capitalize on the damage.
Dig Site
Riken Minor, Rigil Kentarus
Star League Protectorate
23rd March 3115
For three months the combined Star League and Interstellar Expeditions team had excavated the huge doors that covered the access point which they hoped led into the recently discovered fortification. Discovered by a passing SLDF WarShip the base was completely recessed into the surface of Rigil Kentarus moon and had laid undiscovered for centuries. Unused during the Amaris campaign the facility had laid hidden during the various conflicts that had plagued the Inner Sphere.
Dressed in a grey coloured suit with matching sun hat Dr Ruben Urtubi walked into the massive five hundred metre across domed tent which the dig crews used as shelter during their work. Originally from Mexico on Terra Urtubi was used to the heat felt during the day on Riken Minor but some of his colleagues were not hence the tent. There were massive access doors in the roof of the tent which allowed construction workers to pull large finds out for study elsewhere. Inside he saw that the crews and their four ConstructionMechs working on the site were waiting for him approaching he saw his lead assistant Monica Meio step out from the crowd. She like him was from Terra originally coming from the Brazilian city of Porto Alegre she was nearly thirty years younger than him at only twenty-nine years she had dark skin and thick dark curly hair which she wore tied back in a tight ponytail.
“We made it doctor, we have uncovered the access doors fully.” She said greeting him
“Good, very good” he said walking with her towards the facility greeting his co-workers as they approached “are the lifters in position?” He asked as he reached the pit kneeling down to look at the massive armoured doors which his crews had uncovered.
“We have four ships ready to assist us when we are ready.” She said “even if we wanted to blow open the doors, I do not believe we could.”
“I wouldn’t even if I was held at gun point. The Star League may be in a rush for us to uncover this place following the fall of Zosma but to rush would millions in revenue and ruin the whole reason we are here.” He said his group were here specifically because of Clan Wolf’s recent successes the fall of the Zosma system was just the most recent success of the Clan driving the Fourth Knights of the Inner Sphere from the system and shattering a WarShip in the process. The Star League defenders had taken one of the Wolf vessels with them but the loss of the system was one more blow for the Protectorate. Now the SLDF hoped to use this place as a fortress, a roadblock, to stop the incoming Clan charge. If they could get it operational “Call in the cranes!” he called out “we’ll attach here and here” he explained pointing to the top corner on one side of the door “and the same at the other end. Four pull points as we open our prize.” He said looking up at the workers around him to smiles.
As he was speaking the doors on the roof opened and powerful wires were lowered to the ground from four airships which hovered above the facility. Due to Riken Minor’s low gravity the airships made for the perfect lifting machines capable of lifting far more than they could on a world with heavier gravity. It took them two hours to securely attach the wires and then another hour on top for them to take the strain of the lift and then another agonizing hour of lifting from the four craft opening the one-hundred-metre-long doors. Each time the doors were pulled a little further open they made a loud cracking noise as they were forced open against the ancient mechanism’s wishes exposing the cavern inside to fresh air.
Even as the doors opened Urtubi and his team were crawling over the opening trying to see what was being uncovered inside. Immediately they knew that they had hit the jackpot with this particular door as inside the cavern they could see the image of an ancient Drost-class Transport DropShip “in the first room!” Urtubi thought excited by the find primitive even in the Star League-era the Drost was primarily an infantry and cargo carrying vessel which wouldn’t exactly set the Inner Sphere on fire with it being found but the vessel looked like it was in a near perfect condition and it had laid here unseen for centuries and it could be only the first in thousands of finds for Urtubi and his people.
Before the doors were even fully open Urtubi, Meio and several others had begun dressing in safety harnesses ready for the two hundred metre drop to the bottom of the launch bay aiming to land near the nose of the Drost. “After you, Doctor” Meio said smiling to him when the two of them were finally ready to enter the bay below Urtubi smiled and then stepped off the edge and the others in his party began to lower him down, it was a slow process and as he was lowered Urtubi took dozens of pictures taking in the whole experience. The launch bay appeared to be in near perfect condition while the Drost in comparison seemed quite weathered, the vessel had obviously been used extensively and had worked a long hard career. It also, Urtubi noted, did not have any SLDF markings instead it featured a red and black jester’s head with eyes peering off to the left-hand side a large hooked nose and a had a chinless manacle smile. It was a mystery that Urtubi would gladly solve.
“Oh, meu Deus!” Monica Meio exclaimed as she landed several metres behind him still attached to his safety lines Urtubi turned and saw what she had seen a skeleton dressed in a tattered mercenary uniform that featured the same jester’s head that was on the DropShip. Beside the body laid a what appeared to be a vintage 10mm Heavy Pistol from the SLDF while beside it lay a pen and a stained note.
Urtubi stood beside the body careful not to touch the body or the note “Welcome to Castle Centaur” he said out loud so his harnesses microphone could pick up the find and leave his hands free to move “the locals do not want guests; the Succession Wars are not their concern.” He said reading further “I’m struggling to read the last part he said into his recorder looks like “the locals… those ********… do not believe the war is their problem, but now we are here… we will not be leaving, we can’t… they are hiding in this bunker with their traps to defend them” Urtubi said “I hope you have better luck than us.”
“He killed himself” Monica whispered looking at Urtubi who nodded that was his thought as well. “But why? They have weapons, the DropShip has weapons, they could have forced their way out or further into the facility?”
“It sounds like whomever occupied this place was well dug in.” Urtubi said raising from the skeleton “my guess is they themselves were hiding from someone when they first came here” Urtubi said looking at the DropShip seeing that some of the dings which he’d seen and thought were from hard work looked like weapon fire damage. “Maybe once they were down, they had nothing to get themselves back into the air even if they could get out.”
“You don’t think the locals could still be here?” She asked in wonder.
“We are here to find out” Urtubi said stepping over to a nearby door finding it freezing to the touch “we’ll uncover your mysteries Castle Centaur.” He said as others landed inside the bay there had been no resistance to them opening the doors and none now that they were in the facility so Urtubi felt confident the place was now abandoned.
Within hours however he had an answer to the SLDF’s quest on whether the facility would be useful to them in their defence of the Inner Sphere. All four access corridors into the hanger were flooded completely scans suggested that they had been intentionally flooded by defence mechanisms built into the facility. Even if half of the corridors were filled with water the facility would be of little use. They were inside Castle Centaur but it was only the beginning of a very long process of gaining access to it.
Planetary assault
Beuller, Robinson
Draconis March, Federated Sun
25th March 3115
In the sky over Robinson there was a titanic explosion as a WarShip entered the atmosphere in an uncontrolled manner there was no sense of celebration as the ship and its crew perished. Four WarShips had been assigned to the worlds defence now three of them had been lost fighting against the invading Draconis Combine forces including the Avalon II-class Cruiser the FSS Lucian Davion II which had just fallen. Together the Davion WarShips and their support vessels had destroyed three of the six attacking WarShips delaying the invasion by several days giving the ground troops time to prepare and dig in but that had not been enough.
Now with air superiority over Robinson DCMS forces were dropping through the atmosphere towards the three regiments that waited for them the invasion was not uncontested with several wings of aerospace fighters from the defending RCTs contesting each of the landings but there was simply too many DCMS fighters and DropShips to stop them all. The remaining AFFS WarShip in the system, the Vincent Davion-class Destroyer FSS Lancaster, was still operational feeding information to a relief force via HPG giving the AFFS forces an advantage.
The relief forces made up of battle-hardened units that had fallen back out of the occupied “Benjamin Sailent” area were en-route and would be here within the fortnight meaning that the ground forces on Robinson had to resist for a short period of time. Unfortunately, the DCMS knew that their time on Robinson would likely be limited as well which led to their first targets being the Sandoval Family’s home, the Robinson Battle Academy and Robinson Metal Works intent on destroying all three targets before further AFFS troops could arrive. This invasion was not about occupying Robinson instead it was intended on doing to the Federated Suns what was done to them with the world of Benjamin. Benjamin had been a District capitol before the AFFS invaded and occupied the world as the Draconis Combine had been unable to retake the world quickly the AFFS had been able to strip it of every valuable industry and every piece of military hardware leaving a husk of a world with only the capability to sustain its own people. Now the DCMS wanted to turn that back on the Federated Suns and reduce Robinson to the same capability only in a shorter time period. To hasten these actions the DCMS first used their surviving WarShips and air superiority to bombard the targets from above.
On the ground the First Robinson Rangers RCT, the McKinnon’s Raiders Regiment and the Eighth New Avalon Guards RCTs all threw themselves forwards at the invading units trying to defend the world ignoring the threat of orbital artillery intent on resisting to their last against them five DCMS Regiments.
Meeting Room, Large Gravity Deck
Bel Amica Station (Snowden-class), Trinity Moons
District of Lesnovo, Free Worlds League
27th March 3115
Onboard the fifty-one-thousand-ton Snowden-class space station Bel Amica Khan Petra Furey leader of Clan Smoke Jaguar and of the District of Lesnovo marvelled at the sight hidden from view few people even knew the Trinity Moons had such a station hidden away deep within their network of moons. According to the reports she had read the people of the system had purchased the space station from the Taurian Concordat more than a century before and then transported it via JumpShip to this system. They now used it as their primary construction hub having removed the ore processing equipment the mining station was built around and replaced it with a second pressurized dock capable of building small space stations or DropShips.
And now its presence had brought here JumpShip to this largely forgotten corner of the Free World’s League. Even though the Trinity Moons had officially re-joined the Free World’s League decades before and they had three habitable moons orbiting the gas giant few people travelled here other than traders looking to purchase some of the systems natively built items. For decades the system had built their Vulcan 6 and Commonality Space Stations, the primitive Vulcan aerospace fighter, a range of small craft and small DropShips which they had sold across the Free World’s League.
Now Furey had come here and she wanted the system to sign an exclusive contract with the District of Lesnovo to supply at least one Vulcan or Commonality space station for every system in the District, construct two new DropShips for their military one for transporting ground assets and one for aerospace patrol. And to develop a new aerospace fighter based on the Vulcan Aerospace Fighter which would be upgraded with modern engines armour and weapons bought from Clan Sea Fox Furey had already picked a name for the new fighter the Miletus. To pay for these vessels the District, and her Clan, would provide the people of the Trinity Moons with weapons and supplies and access to Clan technology.
The District needed these additional resources to combat the new trade tariffs being introduced by the Districts of Bowang and Regulus who believed that the District of Lesnovo was attempting to undercut them in the FWL markets and was causing tension within the nation with its near continuous raids against the Magistracy of Canopus.
Excalibur (Scimitar-class Missile Cruiser)
Hadrian’s Command, Crucis March
Federated Suns
31st March 3115
The seven hundred-and-seventy-thousand-ton Nova Cat WarShip Excalibur emerged into the system in a flash having travelled thirty light years in a moment. The vessel was still painted in the deep red and black like the Avalon-class WarShip hull that the Nova Cat’s had built on from a distance the vessel would look exactly like the Federated Suns vessel it was pretending to be, and with the information that the Nova Cat Watch had seized the Identification Friend or Foe system of the vessel would make it appear to be a Federated Suns vessel on long range sensors. Standing near the holotable in the centre of the vessel’s command room Star Admiral Alexandria Leroux was proud of her crew they were deep behind enemy lines and the crew had successfully navigated several habited systems without any issues from the planetary systems. Federated Suns planetary leaders had ignored their transit through the systems even after the Excalibur spent four days in the MacIntosh system and they hadn’t been communicated with instead they’d recharged their KF core and jumped clear of the system continuing their journey.
“Are we where we expected to be?” Leroux asked out aloud
“Affirmative Star Admiral” navigator Allan responded from his station “we are fourteen hundred metres from our expected point of arrival.” While that sounded like a lot considering the vessel had just travelled from one system and into another the distance was a tiny one, she could hear the pride in his voice and he deserved to be happy with their work.
“Sensor contact on the port side within weapons range, one Peter-class Scout vessel, war book suggests it is the FSS Inquisitor.” Crewman Sarah reported from her station manning the sensor system.
“Weapons, destroy that vessel now!” Alexandria Leroux ordered. Her command was carried out wordlessly with a salvo of naval-class lasers and autocannon being fired from the cruiser at the far smaller Federated Suns vessel. The amount of firepower used by the Excalibur was overkill for the five-and-a-thousand-ton vessel penetrating the vessel’s hull mid-way across its upper hull the salvo of autocannon fire tore through the vessels structure shattering it. “Good work, sensors reorientate onto the shipyard facilities gather as much information as we can.” She said congratulating the crews as the Inquisitor’s hull began to expand the remaining pieces of its hull being slowly caught by the star’s gravity in time the entire vessel would fall into the star and be lost. “Communications, open a channel so the entire system can hear me.” She said as she saw the Excalibur’s sensors more deeply scanning the shipyard facilities in the system the Nova Cat spy had found this system but its exact composition was unknown.
“You are on Star Admiral” Andrei said from the communications station.
“This is Star Admiral Alexandria Leroux onboard the Clan Nova Cat WarShip Excalibur. Your nation has shown it is capable of resisting Clan Nova Cat.” She said reading the information the ships sensors were picking up five construction slips at the shipyard, one constructing a massive WarShip which was tentatively identified by the Excalibur’s sensors as a Mercury-class WarShip, beside them were several large habitats and warehouse facilities as well as aerospace launch facilities. Around them were dozens of DropShips and beyond appeared to be mining facilities they could spend months studying even this small glimpse into the Federated Suns “secret system.” “My message to you is nothing in your nation is hidden from Clan Nova Cat and we will strike across the stars where and when we wish.” She said looking at Andrei she drew her hand across her throat cutting the channel. “They know who struck them, transfer power from the LF battery and take us out of the system before we get a stronger response. A true battle is not our mission today.” She commanded within the end of the hour the vessel had jumped clear of the system while the defenders scrambled to prepare for a defence that was not needed.
Elsewhere in the Federated Suns Nova Cat forces crossed the border invading the systems of Zolfo, Des Aro and Hoyleton engaging various elements of the Third Crucis Lancers RCT which was spread over the area supporting local militia forces and mercenary units. Intent on ensuring that the Third could not mount any sort of major response the First Nova Cat Guards Cluster targeted the Third’s command base on Tsamma challenging them to an honour trial for a pair of RFL-X3 Rifleman MUSE WIND BattleMechs which the unit was testing. The two Mechs had been refitted with Clan armour and weapons and were planned by the Federated Suns to be the basis for new variants of the ancient BattleMech. As the MUSE WIND refurbishment already had so much Clan tech already featured in it the Nova Cats saw the design as a potential refit, they could use for their own Rifleman BattleMechs, many of which they had originally captured from the Federated Suns.
During the battle on Tsamma the Clan duelling rules of Zellbrigen are rapidly violated by the Federated Suns troops who intend on using their superior numbers of infantry and vehicles to overwhelm the elite Nova Cat unit. Unfortunately, this also allowed the Nova Cat Guards to concentrate their own fire and employ unconventional tactics against the Davion unit. Over recent years the unit had begun to become lighter than a traditional Guards type cluster a change made largely by its leader Star Colonel Victoria Fokker, the only person to hold that Raven bloodname in the Clan, who herself piloted a Kestrel OmniMech. Combining the speed and firepower carried by Clan built machines the used flanking manoeuvres combined with artillery and mass long range missile fire to crush the lighter units of the Lancers and turn their flanks finally surrounding their command elements forcing a surrender of the trial force.
Had it been a true invasion the Nova Cats would likely have had enough firepower to seize control over the world but that was not today’s intention, like the Excalibur’s mission across the Federated Suns the Nova Cats were proving to the Federated Suns that they could strike when and where they wanted and win. The systems of Zolfo, Des Aro and Hoyleton would all become Nova Cat holdings as the remains of the Third Cruicis Lancers mustered on Tsamma following the Nova Cat withdrawal.
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I have said before It is time for the Inner Sphere to deal with the Pirate Band the Kitties by extreme measures.
They have taken "war to" TC including for all evidence support then Ender event that a "Rogue" clan ship caused, they hit Star League forces, and Fed Sun, as well as the DC.
I know that Dragoncat they are your favorite faction, but maybe they need a slap down.
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Man, the FedSuns is their happy hunting grounds.
Their busy blowing up stuff on other fronts, the Cats waltzs remind them their not something to target once their done playing rough with others.
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I have said before It is time for the Inner Sphere to deal with the Pirate Band the Kitties by extreme measures.
They have taken "war to" TC including for all evidence support then Ender event that a "Rogue" clan ship caused, they hit Star League forces, and Fed Sun, as well as the DC.
I know that Dragoncat they are your favorite faction, but maybe they need a slap down.
Remember it was a Raven WarShip that went rogue the Spectre
I kind of agree that the Nova Cats need a beating but not that they are Rogue they are being a Clan. Too long they played nice
As for they need to be taken to terms that's actually harder than it sounds and not just because of author fait
From the start I've adopted the Piranha and shark Philosophy
The shark is big enough to eat anything but vulnerable to being eaten by the smaller fish working together
In universe terms this means House Davion should be trouncing the Nova Cats but they are at war with at present the Combine, the Ravens, the Nova Cats and the Capellans.
Davion was more interested in taking Benjamin than protecting its own Periphery and now Robinson is in trouble too.
As for the Star League yes it should be more active against the against the Nova Cats but they are also facing down the Ravens, Jade Falcons, Horses, Sharks oh and they have the Wolves on their doorstep thanks to the decision to form the Protectorate. So defend insignificant Davion periphery worlds or help defend Donegal, Coventry and Terra? It's not a difficult decision it's cold hard facts
There's also the political side of it Davion invaded Benjamin Davion ticked off the Ravens they are starting fights they are struggling to finish. Now in the Council people don't want to help them they should be big enough to fight their own battles
If Davion becomes First Lord again I think we'll see the Nova Cats dealt with until then they need to retake Robinson as a point of pride and finish the fight with the Ravens and deal with the Nova Cats
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Right Sure Right
Pirate Gull claimed a Brand new ship just went Rogue and pulled a Endor Style event without Ewoks... and just after it happen Pirate Kitty hit the TC and then cried when the TC treated them as they should be given what had happen, and got the rest of the Clans to say they would not play ball if the IS handed them beat down they so deserved.
I did send you a plan back then for the TC to brought the pain back to the whole of the clans for agreeing playing the game they want but you choice not to take then plan.
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Excellent stuff as always, that old SLDF base is rather mysterious and I wonder who the 'natives' are.
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This one's been held back a bit because I've been trying to write the spin off story "Foresight" and hit a bit of writer's block. Instead I'm pushing forwards with the main storyline (from reading it you may have guessed I got TRO Irregulars this week ;D)
The last bit was inspired a bit by the Sybil stories and others that have floated about a bit in the past. But the reality behind those stories (at least as far as that Admiral knows)
Wolf Assaults
Star League Protectorate
1st April 3115
A rebuild Ninth Wolf Guard Cluster re-join Clan Wolf forces assaulting the Star League Protectorate assaulting the systems of Shiloh and Wing. Due to the presence of two Star League Special Operations Teams on Wing Star Colonel Alaric Ward leads the majority of his Cluster to Wing while the remains of his Cluster along with support elements from the Tenth Wolf Irregulars Cluster assault Shiloh.
The assault on Wing sees the first victory for the rebuild Ninth Wolf Guard Cluster as the Second Special Operations Group are shattered in the victory and the Seventy-seventh Special Operations Group are forced off world after taking a beating delivered by the Wolves who wish to prove themselves. Due to the presence of so many special operations operatives on the planet the Wolves deploy several Watch operative teams and heavy infantry support units to the world to hunt down any survivors. As soon as the garrison forces arrive on planet the Ninth move on from the world heading for their next target.
Combat Air Patrol
Keystone, District of Marik
Free Worlds League
7th April 3115
In the last year Jeremy Kincaid-Cameron had flown several aircraft as he recovered from his injuries, he received on Vestallas but today he was back in a Huscarl OmniFighter flying in active duty for the Northwind Renegades. During his time recuperating he had been promoted to Captain having shown an aptitude for the administration side of his duties as well as having the combat experience with his new rank he had a lot more responsibilities but they didn’t get in the way of his first love of flying an aerospace fighter.
His assignment to the Northwind Renegades had come as a surprise. The unit still held much of its traditions from when it was a mercenary command and still only rarely took on recruits from anywhere but the academies on Northwind or from those that shared blood with previous Highlanders. When he arrived however Colonel Jeremiah Rose had made it quite clear that the Renegades didn’t hold as closely to those traditions as closely other units and that if he did his duty then he’d have no problems within his command. A month in and so far, Rose was being proven right and Jeremy Kincaid-Cameron had begun to feel at home within the unit.
Today he was overseeing an SLDF operation supporting the construction of defences on Keystone and below them two Maruhanabachi Carrier Airships and several Tonbo and Bishop VTOLs were working to support the ground troops in their construction efforts. Kincaid-Cameron turned his fighter to the right circling over the efforts below overseeing the work, today wasn’t a combat assignment just security and as a way of fitting in he was happy to take it.
“BREAK, BREAK, BREAK, CAP we’ve got an issue down here!” Suddenly the message broke Kincaid-Cameron’s thoughts.
“This is CAP, go ahead.”
“We’ve got a theft of a lance of StrongArm ConstructionMechs by a group of criminals. Ground support cannot intercept them. We need support.”
“Ground control, CAP Talon One, I have a pair of Huscarl fighters up here. We can lay down support but you need to feed us targets or we’re going to make a heluva mess!” He warned tightening his flight’s turn to keep them over the area and releasing the safeties on his weapons.
“Affirmative, Talon One, you have clearance from command to engage. Target lance is heading east through sector six. We’re releasing their IDs now, pursue and eliminate.”
“Understood” Kincaid-Cameron said taking a deep breath, so much for an easy security patrol where the hell were their ground support? “Talon Two, on my wing, you take both targets on right I have left understood?” He asked the other pilot silently acknowledged his orders taking up the targets while the two fighters turned. “Mamma Bear One, Talon One, we’re travelling through your work space have all traffic aware we’ll be coming through at pace.”
“Talon One, Mamma Bear, understood good hunting.” The airship traffic controller acknowledged their move as the two Huscarls dived under the airships the two expert pilots avoiding flying VTOLs which were working in the area as they dived to the ground to track down the four stolen ConstructionMechs. Now flying below one hundred feet they approached the four light ConstructionMechs at pace. In tandem the two fighter pilots engaged with their autocannons and lasers splitting their weapons against the slow-moving targets. Talon Two followed Kincaid-Cameron’s targeting aiming for one of the StrongArms legs each with the ConstrctionMechs moving slow there was no way for them to avoid the fire and the Huscarl’s heavy weapons fire rapidly fell. One laser blast burned through one of the StrongArms legs burning into a nearby building but the collateral damage was light. One of the other IndustrialMechs remained standing for a moment but Kincaid-Cameron added his ten-tube long-range missile launcher into the mix knocking down the Mech.
“Talon One, Mamma Bear, we’ve got four crippled construction Mechs I can see pilots attempting to get away heading off towards building one hundred metres to their east marking location. We are not weaponized to target them send in ground pounders and recovery teams.” He said feeding back to the orbiting Airship.
“Affirmative Talon One, good hunting.” They responded as the two Huscarls began to rise into the air again returning to their patrol a surprise distraction but as Jeremy Kincaid-Cameron levelled his fighter again and continued the patrol.
Counter Attack
Draconis March, Federated Suns
10th April 3115
In an effort to cut the Draconis Combine supply lines the AFFS units near Robinson target Lucerne, Franklin and Betterdorf striking the three worlds that had been captured by the DCMS in their push towards Robinson. Those forces on Robinson attempt to start destroying anything related to the Sandoval or Davion families while fighting the defending AFFS defenders. In the Lucerne system the DCS Meiyo, Kyushu-class Frigate, and its attached LAM Regiment are obliterated trying to resist the FSS Ian Davion with the frigate completely outclassed by the Mercury-class Battleship.
Raid
Arc Royal, Jade Falcon OZ
15th April 3115
Three mercenary commands the Grey Death Legion, the Carlyle Family Guard and the Snord’s Irregulars combine to strike against the Jade Falcon held world of Arc Royal. While all three units together combined number over two combined arms regiments they find two Elite Jade Falcon Clusters and several clusters of cadets on the world as Clan Jade Falcon have begun using the world as a training world.
While the Grey Death Legion and Carlyle Family Guard engage the Eight Falcon Dragoons Cluster the Snord’s Irregulars push the Sixth Falcon Eyrie Cluster out of the former land hold of the Kell Family allowing their scavenger teams access to the site for several hours. Using multiple ConstructionMechs and heavy lift vehicles the Irregulars excavate a large area within the land hold specifically looking in one location eventually finding what they are looking for.
Buried deeply below the ruins of the Kell Family land hold they find a hidden hanger which would have only been known by the Kell Hounds themselves. Inside are dozens of BattleMechs and armoured vehicles dating back to the succession wars. While outclassed on today’s battlefield with refurbishment these Mechs would easily add an entire battalion to a combat force once prepared.
With the Grey Death and Carlyle family Guards as well as elements of the Irregulars hold off the Dragoons and Eyrie troopers the Irregulars evacuate the hidden cache to their DropShips before the three units withdraw to Coventry where the Kell Hounds had been based.
Having used the mercenary raid as a distraction the Kell Hounds themselves had combined with several other mercenary and house units to strike and reclaim the Krevci system for the Lyran Commonwealth. Several weeks later the Kell Hounds pay the three units for their work on attacking Arc Royal, the commander of the Hounds Colonel Jeremy Kell had known if they were the ones to return to Arc Royal they would have stood and either liberated the world or ceased to be so they had hired the other units to assist them. The Hounds took several artifacts from the recovered cache, most being Kell Hound heirlooms while the three other units took a heafty payment and salvage from the fighting back to their staging worlds.
SLDF Deployment
Star League Protectorate
29th April 3115
“Listen Governor please, these Drones are not alive!” Admiral Mark Cavannah stressed to the planetary governor who was angry at the deployment of four M5 Casper Drones to the defence of the system. “The movie Tri-Vids about sentient WarShips defending humanity against Amaris and fighting forces that threaten us, I agree, are fantastic but they are FICTION! It is beyond the capabilities of the original Star League and the current Star League to produce such craft.” He said angrily looking at Planetary Governor Jordain Ariadness of Pacifica, or Chara as the star was known, he was by far one of the youngest Planetary Governors in the Star League Protectorate at thirty-two years he had a full head of blonde hair and blue eyes, if he hadn’t gone into politics Cavannah was sure the Governor would have been a poster boy for advertisement campaigns. Unfortunately, while he was young, he was also a little backward in his thoughts about the drone technology and the Casper WarShips that were being deployed to the system.
“They are still WarShips without crews and without control! My citizens are afraid these things will see them as a threat as the original Caspers turned on their creators. My people hate the idea of them over their heads.” He complained looking at the roof of the building as if it would be possible to see the Caspers through them, which was impossible.
“These WarShips are “Smart" they know how to fly around a star system, they will stop and interrogate IFFs of ships they don't know, but they wont fire on ships that don’t show hostile IDs or are not hostile to them. Instead, they will ask for direction from your office and from the office of the local defence forces.” Admiral Mark Cavannah explained “if your orders or those of the SLDF forces present conflict with their prime directive of defending this system, and defending the Star League Protectorate, they will contact Terra via their onboard HPGs for instruction.” Cavannah explained.
“So, they will not follow my orders if “they” do not agree with them!” He said angrily “these buggering machines will go to Terra over the local orders and threaten Pacifica with Terra’s desires” Ariadness said annoyed at the prospect.
“They will follow your orders as long as they are not contrary to the desires of the SLDF and the well being of the people of Cha… Pacifica” Cavannah said stumbling over the local name for the world. “These Drones will do nothing to harm the people of this system you will not even have to supply them” Cavannah explained “we have deployed several DropShips with spare parts, ammunition and fuel. If something goes wrong with these ships the Caspers will arrange a rendezvous autonomously without need for the people of Pacifica to assist them all of this is funded by Terra and the SLDF.”
“And through our taxes” Araidness pointed out.
“Yes, and through your taxes” Cavannah repeated “Governor, Clan Wolf is getting ever closer to this system. They could jump in at any moment. Now your system will not only be defended by the drones you have the Third Knights of the Sphere Regimental Brigade, two full Guard Regiments, the SLS Markov and SLS Caliburn you are hardly under defended.” He explained Chara actually had one of the heaviest concentrations of SLDF forces after Terra with the addition of the Drone WarShips just adding to this force. “We are dedicated to your defence Governor, the SLDF will not abandon you.”
“We are just one more wall that is between you and Clan Wolf, if we fall, you’ll have others.”
“We will but we will not abandon you to the Clansmen.” Cavannah repeated trying to convince the man, Terra couldn’t afford to lose all its protection to the Wolves not with others closing their grip. “Your system is not the only one to receive upgrades to their defences the systems of Graham and Zavijava will be receiving a similar defence force to your system. The Star League are investing heavily in protection for your systems.”
“While Clan Wolf continue to naw and nibble at the Protectorates borders?” Governor Jordain Ariadness “Pacifica has been on the borders of enemies for many years the Protectorate was supposed to bring stability, instead it feels like we have become a target.”
“A target that fights back Governor, the defences of Pacifica or Chara whatever you want to call yourselves this week, will rival that of Hesperus II, Tharkad and New Avalon. You will have a net above your heads to protect you from the threats that are near us. We will build a metal shield around our worlds and protect the people below them from the threats above.” Cavannah said his voice full of passion “you have nothing to fear from us, the Star League is a home worth supporting and fighting for.”
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Excellent update and great to see folks are still afraid of drones!
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I have had a little more time to write recently, it's been great so finally an update!
Planetary Assault
Alpheratz, Raven Alliance
Periphery
3rd May 3115
Standing on the bridge of the FSS Hanse Davion II, Fleet Admiral Jonathan Raikkonen watched as the other WarShips and JumpShips of his fleet jumped into the Alpheratz system; the capital system of the Raven Alliance. After recent attacks which had seen the Raven Alliance secure six systems including the PDZ capital world of Woodbine the Federated Suns had classed the Clan/Periphery nation as a credible threat to the security of their periphery border. The Alpheratz mission was a “Shock-and-Awe” strike designed to make the Ravens understand that striking into the Federated Suns would cost them more than they could afford. Six WarShips, including the Hanse Davion II, and twelve JumpShips carrying two Regimental Combat Teams and four mercenary units had joined in the strike intended on forcing the Ravens to come to the peace table; or at the very least enter into a cease-fire.
Looking at his sensor system readouts Jonathan Raikkonen smirked seeing that the intelligence staff had got things right for once there were only four WarShips in the system… “Only” he quietly said to himself from the Holo-table in the CIC there was a time in the Inner Sphere that seeing ONE WarShip in your entire lifetime would have been a life changing experience. Now in some systems that was still the case but with the numbers of vessels now available in the Inner Sphere it was becoming a far more common experience to see such vessels. “Readouts on the vessels present.” He ordered louder getting the attention of the room as he realized the only the four Recharge Stations that served the system were present at the Nadir and Zenith points and none of them were the targets of this attack.
“The Four Raven WarShips read as One Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser 100% confirmed as the Bontaventure, One Texas-class Battleship 93% confirmed as the Montbatton…”
“Hold report and confirm why the uncertainty?”
“Vessel’s profile does not match what our sensors recognize as a Texas-class vessel she’s been modified either cosmetically or with additional capabilities.” The officer reported from his station “sir, our readings on the two Aegis-class vessels also read as 93% confirmed they have also been modified from the base design.”
“The Star League had several variations of the same WarShip in operation some of them look nothing like another vessel of the same class could our sensors be thrown off by what they are looking at?” Raikkonen asked exploring options he’d flown in starships nearly his whole sixty-two years since his parents fled the Clan invasion of their native Free Rasalhague Republic and set up in the Federated Suns as crewmen onboard a trader JumpShip. He’d been born in space just within the Federated Suns borders and been registered as a citizen as soon as his parents had landed on Addicks officially that planet served as his homeworld even though he’d spend less than a year on its surface in reality he was at home in space.
“Negative Admiral through the Star League we have records of all variations of Star League and Clan ships these variations in the Texas and Aegis class are unknown.”
“Understood, ladies and gentlemen I call for your attention, our duty is to get the ground-pounders onto the planet surface to do their work. We will respect Clan dueling rules if they are willing to once, we are in communication range the Hanse Davion II will challenge the Montbatton regardless of what the Clans have done to her. The Melissa Davion II will challenge one of the Aegis and the Jennifer Davion will challenge the other leaving the Jackson Davion to challenge the Potemkin should it be looking to join the battle.” He explained the Jackson Davion would be heavily outgunned by the Potemkin should it be carrying a full set of DropShips however Raikonnen didn’t think the vessel would be used in this battle he’d make it clear that the Federated Suns were not here to claim the vessel in his challenge he wanted to rule it out of the battle quick. “Our remaining WarShips will engage any aerospace defences around Alpheratz should the Ravens refuse Safcon, which we expect they will, our objective is not to cleanse life on Alpheratz our objective is to secure control over a settlement or a factory which will bring the Ravens to the negotiations table with the Federated Suns and end the conflict between our nations. Understood?”
“Yes, sir!” Came a resounding response from the crewmen in the system.
“Very well bring us into the system” he ordered across the fleet vessels began to accelerate away from the JumpShips at the Nadir point.
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Five days later the Federated Suns fleet entered into the range of the defenders communications and Fleet Admiral Jonathan Raikonnen made his challenge. “I am Fleet Admiral Jonathan Raikonnen the commander of the Federated Suns Fifth Fleet and of the WarShip FSS Hanse Davion II. My vessel carries a proud name and stands to defend its nation I challenge another vessel with a proud name Clan Snow Ravens Montbatton to combat. This is a solitary challenge to be resolved between myself as commander of the Hanse Davion II and the commander of the Montbatton my vessel against theirs let no other vessel enter.” As he spoke the commanders of the Melissa Davion II and the Jennifer Davion issued their own challenges against the Lord Death and the White Terror these challenges were to be worded in a very particular way to get the attention of the Snow Ravens and for now to include nothing else.
“Response from Raven vessels are coming in, it’s the commander of the Montbatton.”
“Put them on.”
“Fleet Admiral Raikonnen, welcome to the Alpheratz system, before we accept your challenge, we must know your purpose for being in this system?” Came the response after the delay in transmission.
“We wish to end the conflict between the Raven Alliance and Federated Suns through honourable combat. I have brought the additional WarShips for security and to allow the crews of your additional vessels to gain honour through battle. Our ground forces will offer those troops you have on the ground that same honour with the understanding that we have no wish of conquest of your world, we bring no plans with us of conquest only to bring an end to the war between our nations as two martial nations should end a conflict.” He offered giving the Ravens the words they needed he’d have preferred if they could show some force and speak with their enemies ending the conflict with worlds of peace but he knew that the Clansmen would need a battle to keep their warrior caste happy.
After several minutes a response came through the CIC’s speakers “This is Star Admiral Rayford McCorkell the commander of the Montbatton. I accept the challenge from with Fleet Admiral Jonathan Raikonnen of the FSS Hanse Davion II with conditions.” Onboard the Hanse Davion II Raikonnen glanced at his XO who nodded ready to note down what the Ravens were about to say “the Lord Death and White Terror are bound by these same conditions” McCorkell continued “firstly the Bontaventure is not included in the bid for this system if any ship enters within one hundred kilometres of that vessel then Zellbrigen will be classed as being broken and additional Snow Raven forces will join the battle.” He said to himself Raikonnen nodded understanding and seeing that the Bontaventure was far outwith the engagement zone anyway. “Second, ground forces are to land on the northern continent where they will engage Raven Alliance forces.” He said continuing “third should any vessel signal its surrender during battle the opposing side is to accept that decision and not pursue the total destruction of their enemy.”
“I accept your terms and wish to request Safcon for my forces landing at the Northern Continent” Raikonnen asked knowing full well what the answer would be.
“Negative, to grant Safcon would mean the fighter pilots on the ground would miss out on the honour of engaging your forces. Safcon will not be granted from any trial and should your WarShips approach Alpheratz they will be subject to Trials by aerospace defenders.”
“Well bargained and done” Raikonnen said ending the Clan Ritual showing them this respect would hopefully go a long way to helping cement any decision that came from it.
“Well bargained and done”
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Nine hours later the Hanse Davion II entered weapons range with the Montbatton and found their first surprise of the battle as four Kraken Telescopic Capital Missiles slammed into the Hanse Davion II’s hull the assault surprising and overwhelming the Battleship’s impressive anti-missile systems. Within moments the FSS Jennifer Davion and FSS Melissa Davion II reported similar strikes as the Ravens revealed that they had copied the Inner Sphere invention and were now deploying them on their WarShips as well.
“So, the Ravens have kitted their ships out with some surprises.” He said looking at the damage caused fortunately there wasn’t any obvious penetration of the hull. Raikonnen cursed normally they would’t waste time with screen launchers until they’d seen the missiles fired but the Kraken’s had been fired before they even entered range and been controlled all the way to target. “Time for us to respond in kind, return fire as we enter range, deploy screens and move us in on them.” Raikonnen ordered as they closed on the Snow Raven Battleship. The Montbatton was designed to engage a target at range with a range of naval particle cannons, lasers and naval missiles its greatest weakness was its lack of directly forward-facing weapons and lack of missile defences. While the First Prince Block II was also designed to engage at range with a host of Naval-class gauss rifles, lasers and missiles to throw back at the Clan vessel while also having a ring of screen launchers and anti-missile defences. It was a slugging match which the newer designed First Prince-class should come out ahead of with its modern defences but after seeing the use of Kraken missiles by the Ravens Raikonnen was taking nothing for granted.
“Sir, naval missiles ineffective!” The weapons station reported as the missiles reached their target the missiles had been fired probably at the same time as the Krakens had been fired but unlike the attack on the Federated Suns WarShip the missiles targeted on the Montbatton had failed to reach target. “They have deployed screens and are employing anti-missile defences!” He said looking over at the Admiral again as further Raven Krakens bore through the Hanse Davion II’s defences and slammed into its armoured hull. With defences now active the attack was far less effective than before but it still wore into the vessel’s hull.
“Bring us onto their port flank, we’re going to have to close on them, use our capital missiles to support the DropShips and fighters they should have more.”
“Affirmative, Fleet Admiral” the officers replied as the ships range decreased the Hanse Davion II angled towards the Montbatton’s port flank as they closed the Clan vessel turned sharply away from them bringing its broadside of naval lasers to bear on the nose of the Hanse Davion II. The Federated Suns battleship shuddered as the lasers bore into the vessel’s hull coupled with more lasers, autocannons and particle weapons. Between the two vessels a dozen DropShips and over a hundred aerospace fighters engaged each other in close quarters fighting.
“Turn our nose off target, bring autocannons into play!” Raikonnen ordered seeing the armour wear to the front of his vessel. By turning they vessel, they brought their own broadside into play allowing several naval-class autocannons onto target. Raikonnen was glad to see them wearing on the side of the enemy Texas even as the Montbatton continued to strike them. “Sensors, I want a detailed scan of the Montbatton if the Ravens have modified her in any further way I want to know!” He ordered as the the Hanse Davion II rocked heavily from a new impact against the port side.
“Report!”
“Armour breached caused by further Kraken impacts they’ve been targeting the port side with them our defences can’t hold them back!” The Damage Control Officer (DCO) reported the Kraken was a special type of missile due to the Telescopic cameras which allowed the missile to be “piloted” by the gunners controlling it the Ravens had been coordinating their strikes targeting one section of the Hanse Davion II. The missiles themselves were heavily armoured and designed to penetrate an enemy vessels defences and armour.
“Air boss, we need the aerospace squadrons to assist in missile defence, we can’t afford to keep taking hits like that!”
“Sir, all squadrons are fully engaged turning them off target now will cause losses!” The man protested
“I know, but we’re going to lose this ship if they don’t!” Raikonnen snapped “it’s a sacrifice but it’s one we need, give the damned order!” He commanded turning to the helm station “give us a nose-broadside swing I want to hit them with our forward armament then turn back on them again! Our armour can take it.” As the ship began to turn aerospace fighters and DropShips continued to fight and die around the two ships they were like bugs beside a grand anima.
“We’re going to take a pounding” the helm officer commented but didn’t argue as he begun to swing the WarShip around onto it’s starboard side. Naval lasers and particle cannons from the Montbatton tore into the WarShips flank and nose further damaging the Hanse Davion II’s armour. The Federated Suns Battleship responded in kind with a volley of naval-class gauss rifles all while continuing the bombardment of naval autocannons and lasers. As the Hanse Davion II turned back to display its broadside the Montbatton also shifted position sending a volley of heavy naval autocannon into the Battleship while further Kraken missiles slammed into its damaged port flank.
“Port Autocannons offline! Port links to engineering down! Hull breach four decks! We’re losing atmosphere! Emergency protocols activated! Our armour is gone.” The DCO shouted a warning the deployment of fighters and DropShips hadn’t been enough.
Raikonnen breathed heavily as the ship rocked again under bombardment. “Communications Officer, signal the Montbatton, the Hanse Davion II is willing to stand down.” He announced looking around the CIC “We are not surrendering to them this ship can still fight if they want to take us to destruction!” He said defiantly “but this battle will not be determined up here, it will be determined by the boys and girls we have successfully escorted to the planet.” He said looking at the sensor screens seeing DropShips carrying their ground forces enter the planet’s atmosphere of the WarShips that had escorted those ships it appeared the FSS Killing Blow had been crippled with its crew abandoning ship from what Raikonnen could make out the four hundred-and-twenty thousand tonne ship did not have the velocity to maintain orbit over Alpheratz; at least the Ravens had allowed the crew to abandon ship safely.
Launch site
Northern Continent/North Country, Alpheratz
Raven Alliance
9th May 3115
“Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen I’m Shakeel Hussein, of the Alpheratz New Freedom Journey, for the last six days and nights Alpheratz has been under attack by forces of the Federated Suns.” The dark-skinned man in his forties said over the launch of a red-and-black coloured DropShip behind them his greying hair highlighted by the flare from the DropShip’s engines. “What started with a naval battle just outside orbit continued below on our planets surface. But this, this was like no battle our people have faced before.” He said “the Federated Suns forces came here to fight an ‘honour battle’ against the forces of the Raven Alliance. In a battle which was more like a large duel than a battle of conquest the Federated Suns forces and those fighting for our nation engaged in fifteen battles across the North Country. Each of these individual battles had very distinct victory conditions with both sides meeting before the battles and agreeing what factors would lead to a victory. In all the conflicts that I have witnessed in my time as a new correspondent this was perhaps the most ‘civilized’ with not a single civilian casualty in any of the battles.” He explained as a second red-and-black DropShip this one clearly displaying the insignia of the Federated Suns took off. “This was not to say that this was a bloodless battle hundreds of brave men and women have given their lives for the Raven Alliance and for the Federated Suns during these battles. The WarShips FSS Killing Blow, FSS Jennifer Davion and our own White Terror were all destroyed in the naval battle above while in the fifteen battles on the ground more than two Federated Suns Regimental Combat Teams fought against our brave volunteers and Snow Raven warriors. In the end the commander of the Federated Suns force Marshal Max Riemelt led his forces to six victories against our defenders while the remaining nine battles went to our defenders.” Shakeel Hussein explained “while this has netted the Federated Suns a production run Deimos OmniMechs for their efforts, the Raven Alliance victories have secured Alpheratz and the gains made during the recent conflict with the Federated Suns.” Hussein explained as another explosion occurred behind him this wasn’t unexpected as a huge Conquistador-class DropShip shot along the ground and took off heading towards orbit. Hussein was silent as the roar of the DropShip’s huge engines carried it into the upper atmosphere.
“Now the Federated Suns leaves the Raven Alliance in peace. In the days of the Succession Wars a nation state would fight until it was exhausted but now in the time of the Clans a battle for honour leads to the end of this wasteful conflict between our nations. The Federated Suns has lost the battle for Alpheratz and it has lost the war with the Snow Ravens but both sides have agreed that there will be no further conflict between us.” Hussein said as a group of ten Raven Alliance aerospace fighters flew over the camera “at least now. I am Shakeel Hussein, of the Alpheratz New Freedom Journey, reporting live on the 9th May 3115.”
Trials of Possession
Rasalhague Dominion/Coyote OZ
Occupation Zone
11th May 3115
In a series of Trials of Possession several worlds are exchanged between the Rasalhague Dominion and Clan Coyote. Both sides restrict themselves to honour trials of no more than a Cluster engaging the other Clan in the battles. In all the Coyotes come out on top over six trials adding four systems Mozirje, Feltre, Basiliano and Thannhausen to their occupation zone while the Rasalhague Dominion seize control over Carse and Glauzzo from the Coyotes. In these battles the ground fighting is seen as little more than training for the Clusters involved with no collateral damage taken by any of the forces involved.
Nuclear Incident
Sudeten City, Sudeten
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
19th May 3115
A nuclear explosion envelops Sudeten City, the official capital of the Clan Jade Falcon Occupation Zone, the casualties are massive but less than they would have once been as the Jade Falcons had spent the last ten years all but abandoning the city and Sudeten itself. For decades the Jade Falcons had been giving up parts of their occupation zone to forward their goals deeper in the Inner Sphere and Sudeten had been strip mined by the Falcons for all of its worth. During that period of time only a single garrison cluster had been based on the world while all other scientists and leadership had moved elsewhere in the OZ.
The Jade Falcon Watch begin a short and an immediate investigation into the explosion but for all intensive purposes the Falcons abandon Sudeten once and for all soon afterwards allowing the Hell’s Horses to take control over the radiated planet. Within days of the Hell’s Horses take over they command all survivors from Sudeten City to abandon the grounds of the city and move elsewhere on the planet naming Sudeten City as a no-go zone for the population of the planet. A Hell’s Horses investigation suggest that the explosion could have been caused by an undermaintained Jade Falcon reactor which may or may not have been tampered with by unknown persons.
Resource Raids
Magistracy of Canopus
Periphery
22nd May 3115
In a series of raids McCoy’s Malcontents pirate band raid several systems of the Magistracy of Canopus striking at Kleinwelt, Thraxa and Vixen taking salvage from all three systems as they continue to try and rebuild the Mechs that are stored on Whittington. In each of the battles Amanda Cavalcanti is allowed by Schuyler McCoy to join the unit in battle in her restored Griffin GRF-1A despite being someone who had been coopted into the unit she fights for the unit and does not attempt to leave the pirate band. From the resources taken in the Magistracy the Malcontents’ techs restore a Koschei and an Icarus II BattleMech to operational status adding them to the defences of Whittington.
Trial of Possession
Savonburg, Draconis March
Federated Suns
28th May 3115
After recent victories by the Nova Cats claiming the systems Kiza, Rentz, McRae, Rosiclaire and Vandalia and Federated Suns counter attacks which claimed Hortense Hogdell and Jessup the Nova Cats and Federated Suns agree to end the current conflict between them on a world not touched by the recent combat. On the world of Savonburg Khan Canin Rosse meets with Field Marshal Paul Bowmen of the Federated Suns Crucis March.
With a simple Trial of Possession fought over by the Delta Keshik and Bowman’s own First Tikonov Cossacks RCT the “war” comes to an end between the two nations with the Federated Suns force victorious ending the conflict between them. The fighting has told both sides several things the Federated Suns has realized that it is not the nation that can fight on multiple fronts and they have now seen the Nova Cats as a threat. While many within the Federated Suns desired to see the Nova Cats kicked back into their Den the nation has been battered on all fronts and needs time to regain its strength. While the High Command of the Federated Suns is confident of a victory against the Nova Cats over the long term the wars with the Raven Alliance and Draconis Combine have sapped the AFFS strength and desire for battle. The Nova Cats could wait until their next conflict.
The Nova Cats have secured what they wished to in the production world of Crofton and gained retribution for the attack by Tyler’s Terribles against their nation overall they have lost control over several systems and have lost a lot of bloodied troops but they have also gained valuable experience. Internally within the Clan they have also realized that they need to deploy bigger formations of ground troops and bigger WarShips to counter those of the Federated Suns. During the battle for Savonburg the Nova Cats deploy clan-tech versions of the Gallant and Thanatos BattleMechs in battle both already produced on Crofton showing the worth of the world to the Clan.
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Oof, Davions didn't get away easily from that fight. Their going need to learn some new tricks to handle anti-missile systems like that.
Nuclear incident sounds like WoB survivors are mingling among the Occupation zone.
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Oof, Davions did get walkway easily from that fight. Their going need learn new tricks to handle anti-missile systems like that.
Nuclear incident sounds like WoB survivors are mingling among the Occupation zone.
They lost about 15-20 systems I don't have may map at hand but they lost quite a bit
As for the AMS crews they didn't expect Mass Kraken T attacks
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One thing I forgot to mention previously the Ravens Suns conflict was the brainchild of Vition2. Originally Vition2 was going to write it and have a few more twists but they have dropped off recently I hope they are well as my only contact is here on the forums.
Based off our notes I wrote a story I could use but credit also belongs to Vition2
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One thing I forgot to mention previously the Ravens Suns conflict was the brainchild of Vition2. Originally Vition2 was going to write it and have a few more twists but they have dropped off recently I hope they are well as my only contact is here on the forums.
Based off our notes I wrote a story I could use but credit also belongs to Vition2
If he does come back, you should use Google Docs and share the file so uh oh can work on it jointly.
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Base camp, Eagle’s Talons
Las Halles, District of Oriente
Free Worlds League
8th June 3115
Dropping into the atmosphere the four purple, red, blue and white painted Screamer Land Air Mechs descended quickly through the snow storm brewing above the surface. Eldest daughter of the ruling family on Oriente Duchess Sophie Halas led the flight of craft towards the ground. The four craft were specifically painted to look good from the ground with the paintwork intricate lines which spread from the nose of the aircraft down to the tail. However, once they converted into their AirMech or BattleMech configurations the paintwork would be at different angles which it was thought would break up the look of the Mechs on visual identification and give the MechWarriors an advantage over range.
High over the base camp of her new unit the Eagle’s Talons Special Operations Unit the craft banked into a tightening circle as they descended on fusion fire. The fifty-five-ton LAM was the largest of all built Land-Air-Mechs and while slower than smaller LAMs they were better armoured and they were well armed with a pair of extended-range lasers and two five-tube Multi-Missile Launchers. In a fight with a dedicated BattleMech or aerospace fighter of the same eight they would be outmatched but neither of those dedicated platforms could come near to matching the others capabilities.
“Eagle One to Talon Base, requesting permission for Eagle Flight to land on main tarmac.” She transmitted as they approached the ground base.
“Permission granted” the tower replied with a well practiced calm the four craft were expected arrivals at the base. Constructed during the period of time that the First Kathil Uhlans were briefly based on the planet there were several hangers which would house a unit’s vehicles, BattleMechs and Aerospace units. These were constructed away from each other in an effort to soften the blow should an enemy bomb the base blindly. There were half a dozen other buildings constructed across the base which had the command, briefing, accommodation, training and maintenance facilities. A single control tower had been built near the long runway which ran between the various facilities.
“Understood, Eagle Flight proceeding to landing.” She said as they approached the base the four craft began the conversion process from aerospace fighter to BattleMech a couple of hundred metres from the ground. Being onboard the craft as the automated process began was a strange sensation for a pilot, even someone who was used to the process like Sophie Halas. First the velocity began to slow dramatically as the engines ceased their forward thrust turning more velocity to vertical power holding the craft aloft with brute force instead of aerodynamics. The rear of the craft broke into two halves with various parts of the legs beginning to form as they did the wings of the craft broke in half with the other halves of the two wings turning downwards beginning to form the Mech’s forearms. Finally, the cockpit sections of the aircraft bent forwards giving the AirMech its final hunched appearance additional thrusters at the rear of the craft kept the forward momentum while ground facing jets kept them aloft.
During the conversion process a pilot was most at risk with less control over the defence of their craft and more concentration being placed on the craft’s heading and stability. Any attack during the conversion process could prove fatal to a Land-Air-Mech with damage causing a failure in the craft or a crash either of which could kill the pilot. Today there were no such threats however as Sophie authorized the onboard computer to continue the conversion process with the back of the LAM straightening above the extended legs, the remaining flat surfaces of the wings moving backwards onto the back of the BattleMech’s arms and shoulders as the arms fully extended. The nose flipped under the cockpit of the Land-AirMech as the cockpit itself moved forwards away from the back of the craft and turned into the vertical configuration of a BattleMech finally settling in position with an audible “clunk” together the four BattleMech configured LAMs.
In formation then walked towards one of the hangers with a “follow-me” civilian truck turning onto the road in front of them guiding them towards their berthing facility joining their comrades in the Eagle’s Talons newly formed Land-Air-Mech Battalion. “Welcome to Eagle’s Talons, Eagle Flight.” The tower said finally as they entered the hanger.
Border Raid
Main Street, Stone Spirit Territory
Periphery
11th June 3115
During an invasion of the Main Street system the First and Sixth Stone Clusters of the Stone Spirit forces supported by the General Stuart, an Aegis-class Heavy Cruiser, the Stone Spirits invade the system taking control of it from the First BattleMech Regiment of the Obsidian Lancers Brigade. As an opener to the battle the Stone Spirits intentionally jump one of their Invader-class JumpShips into one of the JumpShips based at the main jump point obliterating both vessels in a spectacular explosion.
Fighting for their lives the Obsidian Lancers successfully kill Eli Furey the leader of the Stone Spirits gaining themselves a lull in the charge by the invaders. The remaining Obsidian Lancers withdraw from the system meeting with a recently arrived Obsidian Lancers JumpShip which had arrived from the Elume system.
With their leader dead there is an end to the immediate fighting between the former Clan force and the Lyran Commonwealth as a new leader is elected. Unlike the Clans the force instead elects a new leader with former Star Colonel Tanya Furey becoming the new Commander of the Stone Spirits.
Promotion Ceremony, Thunder Complex
Bowang City, Bowang
District of Bowang, Free Worlds League
14th June 3115
The Promotion Ceremony more resembled a wedding than a military procedure as music played in the Grand Hall at the Thunder Complex. Situated in the centre of their multi acre estate on Bowang the Thunder Complex was the base of operations for the mercenary command the Thunder Road which had been contracted to the District of Bowang for several years. During this time, they had expanded their facilities to better incorporate their unit’s needs and bring up its standards in living, training and care. In recent months John Wrangler had overseen the opening of a new school facility which trained future members of the mercenary command and welcomed in local members who wished to learn more about military life as well as regular studies. Those natives who graduated from the Wangler Training College could become members of the unit or return to civilian life with training certificates which would be recognized by the world of Bowang thanks to agreements in training which the Thunder Road had agreed with the government.
The Grand Hall itself was situated near the command building of the base and was the unit’s primary meeting chamber for ceremonies and unit briefings. Inside the Grand Hall every member of the Thunder Road Mercenary Command and several members of their allies the Chaos Irregulars were present in their best uniform of clothing to watch as Lt Colonel Naomi Renee Wrangler took command of the Thunder Road from her father John Wrangler.
The Grand Hall was built like the Lyran Commonwealth’s throne room and it was large enough for a BattleMech to stand inside. Today there were two BattleMech’s present John Wangler’s one-hundred-ton Thunder Hawk on the left in front of the gathered crowd and Naomi Renee Wangler’s Black Watch OmniMech beside it. Colonel John Wangler stood in front of his Thunder Hawk he was nearly ninety years old and had finally decided that today was the day for his retirement, while he still piloted his Thunder Hawk on occasion in practice, he hadn’t engaged in actual combat with it for several years instead concentrating on assisting with training at the Thunder Complex.
As tradition of the ceremony demanded Naomi stopped in front of her Black Watch as her father waited for her in front of his Thunder Hawk her blond hair tied back over behind her grey uniform as was tradition for the unit the jacket of the uniform which was open, showing a simple white shirt underneath, had animal fur had been sowed into the left shoulder and this extended down the arm of the jacket running through the elbow and to the wrist cuff. “Lt Colonel Naomi Wrangler reporting as commanded.” She announced standing at attention.
“Naomi Wrangler, you stand in front of the Thunder Road” her father began as he spoke the entire unit stamped their feet which in the words of the unit “brought the thunder” to the room. “You are entrusted with their command; how do you answer?”
“I am ready to walk the Road and bring the Thunder.” She said reciting the words each person spoke as they accepted a promotion. As she spoke the words the unit responded in stamping their feet making more noise that echoed in the chamber.
“How say you Thunder Road, can she lead you?” John Wangler asked turning to the gathered group.
“Hail!” They shouted united accepting her leadership the old man smiled broadly knowing their answer before they spoke, she had led them in combat several times and each trusted her judgement.
“Colonel Naomi Renee Wrangler, The Thunder Road are yours to command.” He said his eyes watering in pride as he stepped back away from her.
“It will be my honour” she said to her father as the unit stamped their feet again as she turned towards the unit as the noise quietened. “I am proud to serve with all of you and I am proud to take command of this unit here today within the Thunder Complex.” She said as the crowd again on que stamped their feet. “I am also glad to have our allies the Chaos Irregulars present.” She said acknowledging the presence of Lt Colonel Jocoam Chowla and Lt Colonel Ariel Peregrine-Simpson who represented the unit. “And today I am announcing a new expansion to our unit’s chorus.” She said making her deal public for the first time, so far only her father and select advisors had known about the changes that were about to fill the unit. “Lt Colonel Chowla and Lt Colonel Peregrine-Simpson please.” She said welcoming them up beside her both of them wore their best clothing with the Chaos Irregulars command. “Call your troops in.” She ordered Jake Chowla clicked his hand-held radio twice and the doors on either side of the chamber which were used to get her the two BattleMechs inside slowly swung open.
From either side of the room the two battalions of Chaos Irregulars entered the room the troops all wore their best civilian gear and after they were all present Naomi stepped clear of them in front of both units. “We have fought with the Chaos Irregulars on several battlefields. Their unit has been through a lot, as have the Thunder Road.” She said as there was another rumble from stamping feet, this one smaller than before as the crowd reacted with surprise at the presence of the Chaos Irregulars.
Jake Chowla stepped forwards from the Chaos Irregulars beside Naomi to address the surprised command “your commander said The Thunder Road!” He roared looking at the command and his own people in a sweeping motion this time both the original Thunder Road and several members of the Chaos Irregulars stamped their feet together in a combination of habit and surprise at the interruption. Naomi acknowledged his action with a nod of thanks Jake Chowla was at times impulsive and this appeared to be one of those moments, he’d come a long way since the death of his wife fighting the Whispers of Blake. There was times when he struggled with it, this she knew this both he and Ariel had made clear when they first discussed today’s meeting and it was something that Naomi had agreed to help him deal with in the future.
“Today I am announcing that the Chaos Irregulars are formally joining the ranks of the Thunder Road.” She said this time her words brought almost stunned silence “their unit has been through a lot in the last few years and combined we will be able to forge forward along a new Road together!” She announced this time there was no thunder but instead an immediate applause and cheers as both the Thunder Road and former Chaos Irregulars realized that Jake Chowla’s interruption had been one to make them realize who they were. That this was a merger of commands the old ways were not going away instead they were being enhanced by their new combined numbers which would give the Thunder Road more than a regiment of BattleMechs and two combined arms support battalions.
Terrorist Incident
Ferihegy, Kaumberg Theatre
Alarion Province, Lyran Commonwealth
28th June 3115
Following the announcement of the death of Lindon Ashley, a former leader of the Democracy Now movement in the Lyran Commonwealth, who was in prison on Kaumberg. The movement announce their responsibility for an attack on Ferihegy shattering one of the sealed Arcology settlements on the world. In the Ferihegy Primus settlement more than five thousand people perish in the explosion which causes damage to the dome protecting the population and from subsequent nitrogen-cyanide poisioning as Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces attempt to help them. Democracy Now warn that they will continue to target Lyran facilities until the Commonwealth accept that democracy not the feudal rule of the Steiner family is the better route for the Lyran people.
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https://bg.battletech.com/forums/non-canon-units/mercenary-units-of-au-with-thanks/new/#new (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/non-canon-units/mercenary-units-of-au-with-thanks/new/#new)
An update for mercenary units for The Thunder Road mercenary command is here
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Great updates as always, the FedSuns ended the war with the Snow Raven's in the best way without any undue loss of life or more worlds lost, giving them time to take a breath and look at redressing their forces. Superb writing :)
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Time for July and time to move things on a bit. For anyone who took interest before in my Solaris Racing League post the first part of this story has been told before but I've cleaned it up a little. For the original championship the story is on the following link. The rest of it will be added into the main story with little changes here and there.
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/fan-fiction/solaris-racing-league-alternate-timeline-with-thanks/msg1598454/#msg1598454 (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/fan-fiction/solaris-racing-league-alternate-timeline-with-thanks/msg1598454/#msg1598454)
Solaris Racing Event
San Bardo Canyon, Equatus
Solaris VII, Independent Clan Territory
7th July 3115
On a sunny day on the world of Solaris VII a Lexan Oceanic Series Luxury VTOL flew high above the San Bardo Canyon on the mountainous Equatus continent far to the east of Solaris City. The area had long been used as a training ground by MechWarriors preparing themselves for the hardships they would encounter in Solaris’ famous Arenas while more recently Equatus had become home to a large number of the Clan Wolf population who were based on the world. Today, however the canyon was going to be used for an entirely new event intent on bringing in new audiences from Solaris and across the Inner Sphere. From the rear cabin of the aircraft announcer Rick De Graff stood in front of the Tri-vid camera wearing his customary navy suit and multi-coloured bow tie waiting for the broadcast to begin. The Lexan was designed for long distance travel and had a fully kitted out set of luxury passenger quarters normally allowing the passengers to travel in complete comfort, but today the comforts had been pushed to the side or completely replaced with tri-vid cameras and six crewmen from the Solaris Entertainment Company. The red light behind the camera turned to green and the broadcast began.
“Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen my name is Rick De Graff and for the last thirty years I have commentated on the various competitions that have taken place here on Solaris VII.” He said beginning the broadcast in his customary manner. He’d spoken to the people of Solaris for three decades and he “knew” what they liked. Newer broadcasters had constantly tried to get him to change his style but De Graff was set in his ways and had no plans in changing. “I stayed on with the Leagues when the Clans came to Solaris and have seen them go from strength to strength, even though the Clan culture is completely at odds with the life of Solaris they understand the need for a good fight.” He said pausing few of the “natives” on Solaris liked the new Clan populations that had augmented their population but they all understood that the Clans simply had more firepower than anyone else around them and could hold the world in a far stronger grip than they currently did if they wished.
“But now, today we have the debut of a new organised competition on Solaris based out of the San Bardo Canyon here in sunny Equatus, I bring you the Solaris Racing League! Gone are the days of two pilots racing to show who has the fastest aircraft in a straight line and gone are the guns!" He said drawing another difference between the SRL and other racing competitions on Solaris. "Now they need skill and they need the crowds to win in a competition fully supported and sponsored by the Solaris Entertainment Company and TD Investments.” He announced as two conventional aircraft flew past the Lexan rocking it slightly with the wind caused by their passing external cameras on the aircraft cut from De Graff to show the two multi-coloured aircraft banking away and towards the canyon. “Featuring conventional aircraft of various sizes and capabilities the Racing League will be almost unique on Solaris in that we won’t be using weapons on any of the aircraft taking part.” He said pausing for a moment wondering just how the population would take to a competition with no weapons fire? It wasn’t the only competition on the world that didn’t use weapons conventional vehicle stock car racing still consisted of drivers racing without weapons but those kinds of races saw the vehicles themselves used as weapons in almost every race. “Each craft will be expected to carry these weapons or appropriate weights to represent them and to ensure that the race judges and ourselves are kept in contact with all craft each has been fitted with a Slave C3 system allowing us to take data directly from the aircraft and from specially fitted video cameras on each aircraft.” He said as the camera again cut from De Graff now switching to a camera fitted onto one of the two aircraft which had flown past the Lexan previously. Now the two aircraft were down in the canyon below flying in close formation as low as they dared with one aircraft slightly further ahead of the camera carrying aircraft. The two craft changed direction several times as the canyon terrain changed before switching to a wire frame image of the aircraft showing the stress being put on the aircraft.
“We’ll also all be able to follow the action from camera crews situated around the course and from drone craft positioned waiting for the competitors.” He said finally as the camera switched back to De Graff in the flying studio. Beside him in the studio images showed camera equipment that had been set up around the canyon as perfectly timed shots of the formation flying races flew past. The two racers then flew past a hovering VTOL covered in cameras which was also monitoring them.
“The rules are simple the winning aircraft will be the one with the fastest time through San Bardo Canyon, each aircraft will also gain points for completing each challenge while remaining under one and fifty hundred metres, anytime spent above this height will result in point deductions, these points will be result in subtractions or additions to the finish times at the end of the race. “Any aircraft that leaves the canyon will be disqualified.” He explained
“Now let’s see the course!” He said and Rick De Graff’s image was replaced by images taken from one of the racing turbine powered aircraft as De Graff narrated. “Initially the flight will involve a forward dash through the firebreak between the Redwood and Riverbank Forests.” He said as the aircraft began to fly through the trees with greens, browns and oranges flashing past the wings of the aircraft as it flew. “Our competitors will then raise up the right-hand side of the canyon walls staying as low as they can before entering a natural formation known as Hamilton Tunnel.” He said as the small aircraft entered the tunnel. Now natural light was replaced with artificial light as the aircraft changed direction inside the man-made tunnel. “The pilots will navigate in a tight downward spiral through the tunnel avoiding any obstacles and keeping their speed up” he said as the pilot avoided several rock formations inside the tunnel and then dodged between two sets of containers” before they exit and sprint past the northern edge of Riverbank Forest.” He said as the light changed again and the aircraft was illuminated from above by natural light. Camera images changed showing the aircraft flying above them though the daylight air above the canyon floor the cameras panned to show the aircraft now flying over water and De Graff continued his commentary.
“After crossing over Forss Water the competitors will then fly up over the Solaris Steps where we’ll have spectators camped out waiting for them.” The camera then cut to people already camping out on the natural stone Solaris Steps which were bathed in sunlight “those people are in for a treat.” De Graff said as the image shifted to the aircraft which flew from the tunnel over the choppy river then up over the stone steps missing the crowds by several hundred feet as the crowds cheered. “They’ll climb to one hundred metres and dart through the Loch Gateway” he said as the aircraft flew through a stone archway which faced onto the open water below. “They’ll then fly over Loch Scramclate banking to the left around Grant Island where we’ve got more people waiting for them” again the camera showed crowds gathering this time on beach-built bandstands. “Each aircraft will be expected to do the pilots own chosen signature move in front of the crowds at Grant Island with bonus points voted by you being awarded to each pilot after the race is complete.” He said as the racing aircraft did a simple barrel roll over the crowds below. “These points will go towards each pilot’s own personal ranking score which will count towards their season points. After their excursion over the waters of Loch Scramclate they will fly through the firebreak of Sibster Forest before climbing to the final area of the competition.” He said as the small craft flew between the trees of the forest again the various colours of the trees flashed past the wings of the aircraft before raising into TD Investments Stadium an artificially flattened area in the Canyon Wall which had multiple built up bandstands waiting “In TD Investments Stadium, along with you at home, we have 7,500 people waiting for them there each pilot can again preform their signature move and be awarded additional points for their efforts before hitting the finish line.” He said as the aircraft finally through the stadium doing further barrel rolls as it did in front of the waiting crowds.
“Without further waffling from me here comes our first competitor” he said as an HL-15 Hellfish Light Attack Fighter flew into the area. The craft’s wing edge tilt-rotor turbines pulling it through the air while the pilot could be seen in the forward bulbous cockpit the Solaris sun glinting off of the twin tailed rear boom. “Allow me to introduce Koskova Yartseva piloting a Hellfish Light Attack Fighter from Silver in the Free Worlds League, let’s see how he gets on.” The small ten-ton aircraft flew through the trees before diving down into Hamilton Tunnel inside gun cameras from the small aircraft showed just how close the tiny ten-ton aircraft came to the obstacles inside the tunnel. “The small Hellfish is perfect for this type of close quarters flying and is able to avoid everything in the tunnel with ease.” Turning left Yartseva expertly brought the craft down through the tunnel and out the other side then across the water before climbing up over the Solaris Steps tipping his wings ever so slightly as he passed over the heads of the spectators “KEEP your heads down there!” De Graff called out as the spectators cheered at the aircraft passing by the Hellfish didn’t stop it continued on diving through the Loch Gateway and then over Loch Scramclate. “Here come’s Yarseva to our first display area what will he do for the crowds?” Turning towards Grant Island as the aftcraft quickly flew past the crammed spectator stands on the island’s western edge flicking the VSTOL controls Yartseva brought the engine nacelles up into a hover turning his fighter to face the people below as he did causing the aircraft to do a near perfect reverse turn as it moved past the island one hundred metres below. “HA! Using the Hellfish’s VSTOL equipment to pull an entirely unique move in the spectator region. The crowd down there are going to be in for a treat with the rest of the competitors.” He then flicked the engines back into normal flight function and accelerated away from Grant Island banking again to the left towards Sibster Forest. “Here comes Yarseva towards the homestretch and here in TD Investments Stadium!” De Graff said as the crowd below his aircraft went wild in anticipation the cameras showed the small Hellfish flying between the trees then pulling upwards towards the bandstands of TD Investments Stadium. As the small aircraft flew into the stadium area the Hellfish’s engine nacelles again slowly turned pointing upwards bringing a halt to the craft’s forward movement as it did so allowing the craft to turn in a full 360 degrees before finally pointing to the exit of the course. “Well ladies and gentlemen there we have it the end of the first competitors run and a time on the board now everyone knows what to beat. Remember ladies and gentlemen your vote from home can make all the difference for all Solaris Residence you can instant message on the numbers below to cast your vote at the standard calling price. The pilot has done his best job now its up to you to enhance his finishing position.”
Over the course of the next hour eight more competitors flew through the course each piloting their own type of aircraft. Most of the competitors were based on Solaris and had been seen flying in the adhoc events that had taken place on Solaris before but finally it was Jonnie Mjalby from Aubisson in the Rasalhague Dominion piloting an ASF-23 Protector Aircraft that won the first organised league race on Solaris VII.
“Congratulations to Jonnie Mjalby for his victory here at San Bardo Canyon on Solaris VII. I hope you enjoyed that ladies and gentlemen because this debut season is not done, we’ll have another race which will take place in Dunnet Forest on October 22nd. You can click on the link below to find out how you can be a spectator at that event and stay tuned to the Solaris Entertainment Sports IV for an interview with Jonnie Mjalby and some of the other cometitors with me Rick De Graff.”
Trade mission, DCJS Vancouver Sun (Tramp-class JumpShip)
Richmond, The Havens
Periphery
16th July 3115
The Draconis Combine registered trade JumpShip Vancouver Sun jumped into the Richmond system for a standard trade mission arriving in a flash of light at the Zenith point. The Captain of the ship Invar Lofgren floated in the micro-gravity into the small CIC of the vessel as the jumpsail was being unveiled to begin the days long recharging process. Unlike many JumpShips the Tramp-class did not have a cockpit-styled “bridge” but instead had a larger bowl-shaped combat centre similar to that on a WarShip with several stations dotted around the room manned by members of his crew. “Anything to report?” Lofgren asked his bridge crew
“Hai, Captain” Lt. Commander Masao Suzuki said in response unlike a DCMS vessel the Vancouver Sun was not a military vessel and did not follow military ranks, in fact Lofgren refused to use the Japanese ranks of his native Combine in protest for what had happened to his family in the Free Rasalhague Republic. “We are being approached by a group of ten tightly grouped aerospace fighters, they are of Clan design.”
“Clan design?” Lofgren asked aerospace fighters were concerning, he had a few of his own craft onboard this JumpShip for self defence but his pilots were trained to defend agains pirates not Clan bred and trained pilots. “And where did they come from? We are on the wrong side of the border for them to be here.” He demanded answers “extend sensor concentration identify the source of these fighters.” He ordered looking at the sensor data himself he saw they had a few minutes to check the situation.
“Captain Lofgren we are detecting a Carrier-class DropShip at the edge of sensor range. The vessel does not identify as a Rasalhague Dominion vessel, our sensors cannot identify the tag.”
“Understood, communications attempt to raise the aerospace fighters, identify us to them. We are a civilian vessel we have no interest in contesting Richmond if Clan Ghost Bear have decided to take it from the Combine. This is not our fight and we will leave if they let us.” Lofgren said making his decision the Vancouver Suns’ DropShips carried various trade items that the people of Richmond generally bought but if the world was being contested then he wouldn’t be sending his people to the planet today.
“Incoming message!”
“This is Captain Akira Tempest, the commander of the approaching aerospace fighter star, we represent the defence force of Richmond and The Havens. These worlds are claimed by The Havens all threats will be met by our defences. Traders are welcome to our worlds.” The voice responded Lofgren was taken aback he’d never heard of The Havens nation before.
“This is Captain Invar Lofgren of the trade JumpShip Rainbow Sun, forgive me, I have never heard of your nation. My vessel is a trade ship, we carry weapons only to defend ourselves and our cargo and we do not carry weapons of war.” He said watching as the aerospace fighters continued to close.
“The Havens have gained their independence from the Rasalhague Dominion.” Tempest responded “we have freed from the constraints of the Dominion and offered the chance to forge our own future.”
“We are an independent vessel we will not threaten your worlds. My family comes from the Rasalhague worlds, as do many of those on my crew, we now live on this ship. “While I cannot speak to that of the rest of my crew for now, I would be willing to trade with you going forward depending on the terms available.” He said as he watched the aerospace fighters approaching as the sensors updated it showed them turning away from the JumpShip.
“We welcome friendly traders to our nation” Captain Tempest responded “I will allow you to speak with your crew, we will welcome you to Richmond if you decide to continue hostile acts will be dealt with harshly however you are free to leave if you wish.” He said as the aerospace fighters began peeling off heading back towards the Carrier which continued its approach. “Good luck, captain.”
Invar Lofgren watched as the fighters continued to move away as the communications cut off, he looked around his crew wondering how many of them would be willing to take on another challenge in this “new nation” The Havens. He’d wondered for years about taking the Rainbow Sun beyond Combine borders but the DCMS kept them under contract doing work. “Lt Commander Suzuki assemble the crew, if we decide to trade our cargo with Richmond it is unlikely, we will be welcome back in the Combine. These ships are our home but it is a choice that all the crew must agree to.”
“Hai, Captain” Suzuki responded he was proud of his Combine heritage but he was loyal to the ship first hours later the crew of the Rainbow Sun proved that they too were loyal to the ship of the Combine and they chose to trade with Richmond and remain in the Barrens. Both of the JumpShips trade DropShips headed in system leaving the Rainbow Sun to recharge at the jump point with its Leopard CV-class vessel still attached that vessel carried the JumpShips six aerospace fighters and was unsuitable for trade missions. On the planet the traders based onboard their two DropShips are welcomed with open hands and given generous prices. On Richmond they are given contracts to take cargo deeper into the new nation of the Havens which spreads from Richmond to Santander and to Outpost beyond and has eight systems in total.
Within days of the JumpShip Rainbow Sun jumping deeper into the Havens and its disappearance from Combine trackers the DCMS send out search parties into the Havens only to be rebuffed by the nation’s defences. The Rasalhague Dominion then launch attacks against Schuyler, Garstedt, Turtle Bay and Rockland with Star Colonel Ramille Bekka, a Ghost Bear ristar, leading the attack on Turtle Bay announcing to the Combine that the Rasalhague Dominion had released the Havens from their rule, but they would allow the Draconis Combine to counter attack against the nation should it choose to try and conquest as an option but it would not allow the Combine to attack first and take over. This new nation was still heavily linked to the Dominion through trade and unlike many of the other worlds in the area had been provided with the means to provide for their people on their own and encouraged to cooperate with the worlds around them.
Command Council, Stone Spirit City (Forbidden City)
Strabo, Outpost 27
Stone Spirit Space, Periphery
17th July 3115
In the heart of what had once been a Rim Worlds Republic training ground based on the First Star League-era Forbidden City laid the Stone Spirit Command Council Building. It is an imposing structure that had been built on the rubble of dozens of buildings which the Clan force had destroyed when they had arrived on the world and chosen to make this city their new Capitol. While it stood ten stories tall the building looked more like a bunker than a command facility with sloped walls on either side extending several hundred metres in three directions from the summit to the ground. A BattleMech or armoured vehicle could ascend up the side of the building from the ground if it needed to. On the one slopped side the building had a completely flat face with a single massive entrance at the front of the building which was tall enough and wide enough for any BattleMech to walk through. On either side of the entrance were statues the size of a QuadMech both were identical a massive Stone Rhino with droplets of blood engraved across its body.
Walking into the main auditorium Commander Tanya Furey approached her three Galaxy Commanders each of them saluted with standard Star League Defence Force salutes, the Stone Spirits having abandoned the Clan salute when they arrived on Strabo. “Report.”
“Commander, all of our Galaxies are now at full strength. Further production and recruits will go to strengthen these units until you decree, we should raise further Galaxies.” Jasper Osis reported he commanded the Stone Spirit Galaxy and next to Tanya was their most senior commander in both rank and age as he approached sixty-two years old his short hair now long gone leaving only his scarred and well tanned head. Tanya nodded her understanding.
“Galaxy Commander Leroy Church?” She asked the next senior Galaxy Commander who was more than ten years Jasper Osis’ junior and commanded their Rhino Galaxy. Unlike Jasper Osis Leroy Chuch still had some of his youthful looks while his hair was short there was still colour as well as gray while he remained as fit as a person ten years his junior.
“Commander, the disarray of the Fire Mandrills forces continues following the death of Khan Natasha Faraday on Sapienza to a Lyran sniper. We believe Loremaster Jordan Truscott will ascend to command the Clan while efforts by the Mandrills to secure Sapienza continue against the Fesnyng forces based there.” He said describing the Lyrans irregular warfare unit that had been supporting the local militia forces. “Truscott is a former Serpents warrior and before that he served in the Star Adder Clan. He said sharing his disgust for that group that all Stone Spirits felt for the Adders. “We believe that once he has cemented his control over the Fire Mandrills, he will take full control over the Rim Collection.”
“I’m surprised that the Mandrill population hasn’t demanded that for years before now” Tanya Furey commented “it is Clan technology that is propping up the Collection and the only reason they have had any success. Their future is Clan. Please continue Leroy”
“In the confusion Edmine, Brank and Oporto from the Fire Mandrills as per tradition we have taken bondsmen from the Eleventh Rim Regulars, Second Rim Regulars and Third Rim Regulars as well as Isorla. We have reinforced our positions awaiting the Fire Mandrill response. Also, per your orders a JumpShip with all forces we are not claiming is being returned too the Fire Mandrills. With what we have taken from the Fire Mandrills we could potentially raise another Cluster or two of our forces with new recruits bulking it out.”
“Excellent, well done.”
“Galaxy Commander Boques” she said finally looking at the youngest of their Galaxy Commanders Kari Boques was only thirty years old ten years younger than Tanya Furey blonde haired and blue eyed she could have been a model if she hadn’t been born into the Clan life.
“As per your orders the last of our forces have abandoned Port Vail to Clan Sea Fox. They are settling in well. Lushann and Elba in the Lyran Commonwealth have fallen to our forces.” She said giving them her quick short report. Unlike the fighting between the Stone Spirits and the Fire Mandrills there was no need to return the dispossessed defenders of the two Lyran worlds they would instead be left to languish on the worlds under Stone Spirit rule until they proved their worth.
“Unfortunately, I do not carry as good news” she said looking between the three of them “unlike the relations and respect we have faced with the Fire Mandrills and now the Sea Foxes we are being stonewalled by the Clan Council on Tukayyid with our approaches rebuffed.” She explained “we have had better responds from Von Stranges World, the New Oberon Confederation and from the Ragnarok Union but each of them while they serve as trade partners, they will not bring us further into Clan society.”
“Will they ever accept us? We are two Clans made into one. We have because of what we have lost been forced to abandon much of the genetic engineering that they all follow. We may never be accepted into Clan society again.” Jasper Osis said the Stone Spirits simply didn’t have the resources nor the scientific minds to build defences and build up a genetics program.
“Unacceptable” Tanya Furey stated “they accepted the Fire Mandrills when that Clan only held part of the Rim Collection! That Clan was on life support and still they were welcomed back in with open arms!” She said angrily “I will not accept double standards; the Stone Spirits are rightful heirs to the honour of the Blood Spirits and the Stone Rhinos. No, they will accept us back in. But first we will make a mark that they cannot ignore.” She said “firstly, I will send a message to Khan Truscott once he has gained control over the Fire Mandrills and subjected the Collection. I will make it clear to him we will continue what we have started in our recent battles and offer them the honour they deserve as a Clan of Kerensky.” She said gaining nods from the others around her “then we as one Clan will strike at Swartklip and eliminate the Star League Defence Force garrison there, we will destroy the pretenders on that world and we will prove standing in their blood to our brethren we belong.”
-
Invasion
Gibbs, Donegal Province
Lyran Commonwealth
19th July 3115
What had started with news on the invasions of Upona, Westerstead, Callisto V and finally Donegal had quickly been followed with an invasion of Gibbs by Clan Jade Falcon forces. By the sounds of what Captain Aksel Youngblood was hearing the entire remains of the Donegal province excluding Tharkad had been attacked by the Clan in an all-out assault which was sending the Lyrans reeling. The Crescent Hawks had been assigned to protect Gibbs along with Carlton’s Cavaliers a reinforced combined-arms unit and the local militia forces. Gibbs had long been the site of a JumpShip construction yard but companies had been streaming out of the system for months following intelligence that a big Clan push was coming leaving only the skeleton remains of the construction site above the planet.
Now that the Falcons were here the Crescent Hawks needed to escape the all-out assault. Fortunately, no Falcon WarShips were present but that could only last so long. Aksel had already secured them a JumpShip which was waiting in a pre-organized spot ready to evacuate the unit, an additional DropShip captain had also signed on with his own crew to assist in evacuating as many of the people from the planet as they could. Walking from his command tent towards his Shadow Hawk LAM which stood waiting for him his communicator bleeped before he could make it ten steps to his ride. “Youngblood go!” He called back
“Sir, we have a single Ryoken II approaching the base its painted in Clan Wolf colours.”
“Clan Wolf? Are you sure?”
“Confirmed Captain, Clan Mountain Wolf, its just standing beyond the gates. The pilot wants to speak to you.” The guard said Aksel looked at his Mech and wondered what was going on he knew Clan Mountain Wolf had traders on the world, he’d heard they had been working to try and get the shipyard facility transferred to their holdings on Gallery but he didn’t know why they’d want him.
Soon after Aksel arrived at the gates to see the Ryoken II standing there silently waiting for him he found it strange that the seventy-five-ton BattleMech was so silent when the entire world around them was fighting. “I am Aksel Youngblood, commander of the Crescent Hawks, how can I help you MechWarrior?”
“My name is Tassa Kay, I am looking for transport off this rock. I heard this was a good place to look.”
“What is a Clan Mountain Wolf pilot doing here? I heard your unit was engaged with the Falcons and militia.” He asked suspiciously
“Ha, the Fourteenth Mountain Wolf are not my command, I’ve no intention on fighting and dying with those Clansmen!” She said laughing her germanic accent suggested she was a native of the Lyran Commonwealth. “the MechWarrior that previously piloted this Mech chose the paint-job, I would not have. I fight for myself and I am looking to leave Gibbs to continue the fight elsewhere.” Suddenly there was several explosions at the far side of the base. “From where I am sitting, I think you can use the help” she said the Crescent Hawks and local defenders numbered less than a company of Mechs he could definently use additional help.
“Jade Falcon forces approaching perimetre!”
“You want a ride? Prove to me you are use in a fight!” Aksel shouted launching his own Shadow Hawk into the air converting the Mech quickly into its aerospace fighter mode joining the other Crescent Hawk pilot who was already airborne. He saw he didn’t need to communicate further with this Tassa Kay as she’d also launched her Mech into the air and was engaging a Jade Falcon Mech with paired the particle cannons mounted on her Mech. “Crescent Hawks the Ryoken II is allied we need to hold the Falcons at the perimetre until the DropShips are ready to go!”
For the next thirty minutes the Crescent Hawks fought, and died, for every metre of ground as they defended their own Leopard-class DropShip and an Aurora-class DropShip which was parked on the tarmac beside it. In that time the unit’s civilian support staff and dependents gathered and boarded the vessel while the unit fought off the Clansmen above Aksel and his wingman Amanda Tracy provided air support for the defenders until they were finally ready to escape.
“Kay this is Youngblood, unless you want to be left behind get onboard that Aurora now!” He ordered as the Wolf painted Ryoken II completed a death from above maneuver crushing a forty-five-ton Shadow Cat OmniMech under its feet. The seventy-five-ton BattleMech’s feet tearing through the green painted armour of the Clan Mech as it crushed the Shadow Cat into the ground.
“I am not finished yet!” She screamed angrily sending short range missile fire into another Falcon Mech “these honourless dogs deserve more.”
“We’ve given enough! I’ve lost three people on this world we’re not giving them more blood. If you want a ride off this planet, you are!” Youngblood communicated “Trenchant, give Kay another minute to get onboard then close doors and initiate take off!” He ordered flying around above the DropShips. “Crescent Hawks fighting withdrawal get onboard the Gold Rover, now!” He commanded his small unit couldn’t hold for long. He saw the three surviving MechWarriors scramble onboard their Leopard-class vessel he spared a glance at Panuwat Selanon’s Spectre BattleMech, unfortunately he wouldn’t be leaving this world with the rest of the unit two other MechWarriors had died defending the DropShips but Aksel knew neither of them personally they had arrived on the base days before and agreed to help the Hawks escape. As the last of his MechWarriors boarded the DropShip the Gold Rover’s engines engaged and the vessel began to run down the runway away from the fighting shrugging off Jade Falcon fire as it went. Moments later the Trenchant followed the Leopard accelerating across the runway escaping the world Youngblood was glad to see the Ryoken II was not being left behind. “Amanda head to orbit, we’ll dock there!”
“Affirmative, see you soon.” His wingman answered turning her LAM towards space Aksel accelerated his own aircraft following. Soon after they were in orbit and Youngbloods sensors immediately began screaming as four light Jade Falcon aerospace fighters were detected approaching. Aksel and Amanda’s LAMs couldn’t handle multiple aerospace fighters their machines were designed for specialist situations not open combat. He was responsible for all of the people onboard all of the ships present he couldn’t lead them to their deaths, he knew that could happen when they left the Kell Hounds, but he needed to find a way out for them.
“This is Aksel Youngblood of the Crescent Hawks we are trying to leave this system; I request safcon” he communicated asking the Falcons for safe passage from the system. He didn’t expect it to be granted but he had to try holding his course forwards he was prepared to do all he could to stop the Clan fighters. When there was no answer, he accepted today he’d die but he hoped he could help the two DropShips could escape.
“Crescent Hawk DropShips turn to course one-eight-three repeat turn to one-eight-three Asterix Flight will cover!” A new heavily German accented female voice came across the communications channel the two DropShips and LAMS turned immediately and the sensors lit up showing the new contacts on sensors. Six locally produced TFN-5H Typhoon Heavy Aerospace Fighters and a DropShip approaching each was painted in the colours of Lockheed-CBM of Gibbs which was primarily a light blue, with a yellow and red striped pattern and their weapons were already active engaging the incoming Jade Falcons with missiles, particle cannons and laser fire.
The mass assault from the Lockheed fighters overcame the Clan fighters rapidly knocking the four craft out of the fight. Behind the Typhoons came their Leopard CV-class Aerospace Fighter Carrier DropShip together the seven craft flew past the Crescent Hawks continuing to fire into the disabled Clan fighters until they were nothing but wreckage remained. “Thanks for the assist” Aksel communicated before watching the force come around behind the Crescent Hawks joining them in formation.
“You’re welcome Leutenant Kelly DeBrusk of Lockheed-CBM.” The pilot said introducing herself. “We’ve had to abandon the shipyard facility to the Clans, I’ve got dozens of civilians on the DropShip and we’re looking for a way out of this system, any chance of repaying our assist with one of your own? I’m sure Lockheed-CBM will pay up if you are anywhere near Tharkad?”
“Our next stop” he replied “we have a JumpShip waiting I’ll have coordinates transmitted it’s time we leave this place.” He said as the three DropShips and eight fighters turned away from the burning planet below. Fortunately, the Falcons WarShip which was assigned to this invasion had remained at the captured shipyard facility on the far side of the planet allowing the ships to escape to their Invader-class JumpShip.
This invasion by Clan Jade Falcon sees Khan Jana Pryde personally lead the assault on Donegal which sees the destruction of the Second Royal Guards RCT, the death of Lyran Commonwealth General of Armies Admiral Michael Washington, the crippling of the Star League Defence Forces First Kearny Highlanders and the destruction of the 789th Striker Regimental Brigade. Stories of the 789th’s sacrifice on Donegal to save Duke of Donegal Nejama Beersheba-Marsden from capture by the Falcons and the fighting retreat put up by the Second Royal Guards and First Kearny Highlanders increase support by the Lyran people for the Star League Defence Force and the Steiner crown.
The Battle of Donegal also sees the destruction of two Jade Falcon WarShips including the Mississippi-class Battleship Jade Spear and four Lyran Commonwealth WarShips including the LCS Elfurt, an Indefatigable-class Battleship. While the attacks on Gibbs and Donegal robs the Lyran Commonwealth of many major production facilities of aerospace fighters.
In all the attacks the Jade Falcons invade eight systems losing multiple clusters as they push through the Lyran defenders shattering multiple commands and driving the Lyrans back while also blooding several other new formations. The invasion also leaves Tharkad, capitol of the Lyran nation, perilously close to the Clan border. The loss of Donegal, Gibbs and the threat to Tharkad leads to questions in the Commonwealth regarding the viability of the leadership remaining on Tharkad.
-
Enter wacky Tassa Kay, hopefully her mercenary career will be longer lived and just as lively as the original canon one.
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Landing Operations Gold Rover (Leopard-class DropShip)
Cold Creek, Tharkad
Halfway Province, Lyran Commonwealth
3rd August 3115
An icy wind blew through Captain Aksel Youngblood as he stepped clear of the Leopard-class DropShip Gold Rover making him wrap his thick fur lined brown jacket around his black and red duty uniform jumpsuit; on the left arm of his jacket like the jumpsuit below were the emblems of the Kell Hounds and the Crescent Hawks. The usual Tharkad snow was heavy in the air above them but so far it hadn’t begun to fall but it was only a matter of time. The unit had been diverted from Tharkad city to Cold Creek a city of fifty-million in the north-east of the Lockheed-CBM facilities for a landing due to traffic in and out of the primary spaceports. Already his Crescent Hawks had lost the services of Leutenant Kelly DeBrusk and her aerospace fighters who had broken formation as they approached Tharkad. The squadron were returning to the Lockheed facilities to reconnect with their primary employer Aksel couldn’t complain they had pulled the Crescent Hawks out of an uncomfortable situation over Gibbs saving themselves and the entire unit.
Aksel would have preferred to land at Tharkad City so he could access the main Mercenary Bonding office but there was an auxiliary office here in Cold Creek which would do. Even at a relatively small spaceport like the one here at Cold Creek everything appeared to be in commotion with conventional aircraft and multiple aerospace craft leaving and arriving as the Crescent Hawks two ships came in for a landing. Due to the traffic their DropShips had been left far from the terminal facility instead they were parked in an open waiting area.
Not remaining in the cold for long Aksel made his way into the waiting Slipper LX-Series hover taxi which would take him where he needed to. Immediately Aksel was hit by the warm air from inside the vehicle the driver barely waited for him to close the door before accelerating away from his unit’s two parked DropShips pushing Aksel back into the comfortable cabin seats the Slipper was built to carry four passengers and a decent amount of luggage. As they drove Aksel noticed the activity he’d noticed on their approach continued throughout the facility. “Welcome to Tharkad, boss, where we heading?” The young man driving the vehicle asked over the gentle hum of the hover engines as they exited the spaceport grounds following about a dozen other vehicles.
“Thank you, the Lyran Mercenary Bonding Office.” Aksel said tapping his credit-chip against the vehicle’s exchange reader on the flip up screen he saw a small amount was debited from his Lyran account.
“No problem, boss, be ten minutes or so” the young driver said keeping his eyes on the busy roads they turned away from the spaceport and onto the city by-pass the hovercraft effortlessly gliding over the permafrost and snow underneath. There were two rules that everyone on Tharkad had to remember for every journey bring something that could power through the snow or something that ignored it. The Slipper was perfect for the task able to ignore the snow below as it coasted gently down the road slipping in between the traffic with ease.
“The roads seem busy” he said making small talk as he glanced around it was mid-afternoon, he’d been to Tharkad a dozen times and rarely were the roads this busy.
“Lots of changing coming following the Archon’s announcement.” The driver said his eyes not leaving the road as he moved the hovercraft between the lanes of traffic the snow storm that had been threatening when Aksel landed was now falling heavily adding to the mounds of snow that covered the roads and making visibility difficult out of the forward screen. The Slipper’s driver was obviously well experienced with the weather and was making quick progress along the road.
“Sorry, what announcement? I’ve been out of the loop since the fall of Gibbs.” He said mentioning the world they’d fallen back from normally a DropShip downloaded local news as it travelled into a new system but Aksel hadn’t bothered to check it instead he’d spent time planning the Crescent Hawks next moves and checking on the repair schedules.
“Archon Jessica Steiner is running with her tail between her legs.” He said glancing back at Aksel before looking back at the road “she’s announced all government facilities and critical production facilities are to be moved off of Tharkad within the next three months to the world of Carlisle.” He said naming a world in the Alarion Province far from borders on all sides. “With them there’s going to be hundreds of people moving deeper into the Commonwealth, it’s a huge undertaking. It’s fine for the big wigs able to move at the drop of the hat, the rest of us have to stick around with our families and see things through.” He said as something popped up on his screen and the Slipper’s speed suddenly cut as the driver turned his vehicle to the left. “Sorry, boss, I’m adding a couple of minutes your trip” he said pulling the vehicle off of the main lanes and onto one of the side lanes cutting their speed even further. From behind the taxi a military convoy covering three lanes suddenly thundered past dozens of vehicles carrying heavy armoured vehicles. “They are going to turn Tharkad from this nice little ice ball we have into a frozen bunker intended on slowing any invader to a standstill, it’s going to make these streets a nightmare for visitors and journeys a lot more expensive for everyone.” He said as the last vehicle thundered past suggesting that he and everyone else would be paying for the choices that were made. “The Falcons taking Donegal really ruffled some local feathers” he said moving the vehicle back into the fast lane accelerating the Slipper.
The announcement hit Aksel like a ton of bricks, Tharkad was once the untouchable icy jewel at the heart of the Lyran Commonwealth it had never been invaded it had never touched by the major conflicts of the past, now with the movement of the Clans the world sat on the border of an aggressive enemy which so far had not been stopped by Inner Sphere defences. To hear that Tharkad would no longer be the heart of Lyran Government was a blow even to a mercenary like Aksel Youngblood.
“The military types think things could get really grim by the end of it, even bringing in the Błyskawica they don’t have much confidence.” He said as the vehicle turned off the by-pass onto the side streets military and police vehicles were in heavy presence even on the side streets. The mentioning of the Błyskawica was a piece of pride for the Lyran people it was a weapon of build by their enemy which had been captured and turned against them. The ship formerly served the Jade Falcons as the Emerald Talon, and had been re-named for an ancient weapon of resistance used on Terra during one of the many pre-space conflicts it would stand as a symbol of Lyran resistance against Clan Jade Falcon.
The hover taxi cut through the traffic before pulling up in front of the Lyran Mercenary Bonding Office there were offices like this in most cities on Tharkad each of them reporting to the central one in Tharkad City. The idea being that not all mercs would flood to the same place resulting in less conflicts of interest arising Aksel Youngblood wasn’t entirely convinced it but he didn’t have a say in it so he worked with the system. “Can you wait?” He asked standing beside the Slipper, the cold windy streets were busy with vehicles vying for places in the traffic, after seeing the commotion in the town he wasn’t convinced he’d get another taxi fast.
“It’ll cost you, boss, driver’s market today.” The young man suggested Aksel leaned into the back of the taxi and tapped his credit-chip against the reader then tapped it again. “You’re the boss” the driver said smiling surprised at Aksel’s generosity.
Wrapping his winter jacket around him Aksel rushed across the courtyard outside the Lyran Mercenary Bonding Office entering the glass fronted building he saw dozens of people milling around. He quickly got through the queue and headed to the reception desk. Behind the desk was a pretty young woman dressed in a light grey suit, white shirt and Steiner-blue tie with her blonde hair tied back into a ponytail. “Good afternoon, sir, welcome to Cold Creek Mercenary Bonding Office. I’m Assistant-Bonding Officer Yvon Carpenter.” She greeted him as an equally young man behind the desk squatted behind her grabbing some folders before moving off.
“Thank you” Aksel said remaining standing in front of the table “I’m Captain Aksel Youngblood of the Crescent Hawks. I’m looking to speak to the Bonding Officer.”
“Unfortunately, due to changes in Lyran Commonwealth Mercenary Procedures the Officer has moved to the world of Carlisle. This office is currently dealing with requests submitted prior to the Archon’s announcement on 29th July 3115.”
“There is no-one here that I can speak to?” Aksel asked surprised as someone else moved behind the desk grabbing more items.
“Unfortunately, due to changes in Lyran Commonwealth Mercenary Procedures this office will close once prior requests have been dealt with.” She said essentially repeating herself “I can make you an appointment to see the Bonding Officer at Tharkad City?” She offered
“Yes, that would be great.”
“What size is your command at present?”
“Currently two lances” he answered the young woman looked up at him “we’ve recently been fighting the Falcons and taken some losses.” She typed into her system “I can set you up in Tharkad City on the 21st September?”
“That’s more than a month away!” Aksel explained surprised “I’m a merc commander, I need work to keep food in our stomachs and our equipment in working order.” He said thinking he may even have to take the unit back to the Kell Hounds for support of they couldn’t help him on Tharkad. He hated the idea of having to return to the Hounds so soon but it might be necessary.
“Unfortunately, only a registered Bonding Officer can agree additional contracts for now all I can I can offer you is a closed contract agreement based on Tharkad which will see your unit join in the defence of Tharkad should there be an attack on Tharkad.” She offered his face must have told the story that he wasn’t interested in it, garrison work on Tharkad would see his unit thrown into a meat-grinder of a battle should it occur. “I can also offer you a closed contract agreement based on Freedom serving the Lyran Commonwealth Bonding Office and the Isle of Skye Bonding Office.” She said reading the screen “this contract will pay at a level dependent on your commands needs and will be a garrison and raiding contract based on the needs of the local bonding officer.” She suggested
“Sounds better” he admitted the chance of taking his unit against the Clans sounded far better than garrison work.
“I can pencil you in?” She asked Aksel nodded “The Crescent Hawks how many DropShips?”
“Three DropShips and one JumpShip available” he said before realizing the departure of the Lockheed-CBM pilots they’d arrived in system with three ships it at least made more sense to say they were the same as they’d arrived.
“You have your own JumpShip? Excellent are they bonded to the unit or contracted.”
“Currently bonded for non-combat operational transport.” He said there were two forms of contract with most JumpShip captains one contract that would see them assist in moving the unit from A-to-B but be used in other operations when not needed. The JumpShip would assist in movement into a disputed system but specifically would not join invasion fleets. The other saw JumpShips being contracted as part of the unit.
“Very good. As part of the pre-contract, you will be paid for the fuel spent travelling to Freedom. Further terms will be agreed on Freedom with the Mercenary Bonding Officer.” She said he nodded his agreement. “If you agreed please sign here” she said handing over the electronic pad and stylist Youngblood glanced down through the document.
“Looks really good” he said beginning to sign “are you moving with the office to Carlisle?” He asked making small talk as he finished the signature.
“Not likely, the bonding officer has already left, they’ll hire locally for assistants that way people will know what is available on Carlisle. There might be a need in the Tharkad City office but I’ll likely have to look for something else.”
“Ever fancied working for a merc outfit?” He asked handing the pad and stylist back.
“Not really?”
“Well, my outfit is small but if you want a job, I could use a new Chief Negotiator, we’re at the spaceport look for the berthing for the Crescent Hawks and the Gold Rover. We’ll be leaving in three or four days the offer is on the table until then.” He offered reaching out she was a friendly sort of person and his unit could use some support staff, especially ones who could help with negotiations.
“Thank you for the offer Captain, I appreciate it.”
“Thank you for your help, Yvon have a good day.” He said departing he made quick movements back towards the still waiting Slipper Hover taxi. “Thanks for waiting, back to the spaceport please.” He said getting inside tapping his credit chip again the driver smiled broadly seeing the charge come off, he’d obviously not been expecting further payment.
The journey back to the Spaceport was uneventful Aksel continued to speak with the Slipper driver about what was going on Tharkad. He found out the driver’s name was Niklas Devereaux and he’d driven taxis and other delivery vehicles around Tharkad for four years. He also wasn’t convinced that the Lyrans could hold back the Falcons. As the Slipper pulled up in front of the Gold Rover “well, I don’t know how you and your family feel about mercenary commands Niklas but we’ll be here for another three or four days. I’ve got space for you and your family if you want transport off world? We could probably find some space to tie this baby down too. I won’t throw you into combat if you don’t fancy it, we can always use people who just want to work on our base worlds.” He suggested seeing the young man’s face lighten up
“Thank you for the offer, I’ll speak to the wife and get back to you Captain” he said as Youngblood stepped out of the taxi and headed back onboard the DropShip at the top of the ramp stood Tassa Kay waiting for him, she’d already agreed to remain with the unit for their next assignment at least and when he left, she was overseeing the repainting of her Ryoken II. She was beautiful like a reborn Natasha Kerensky with dark red shoulder length hair, she wore her black leather jacket closely to her and despite the cold she was still wearing a white crop top underneath displaying her toned stomach. If Aksel Youngblood wasn’t a happy man he’d pursue her in a minute.
“Welcome back” she said greeting him “how did it go?”
“Thanks, we’re not staying long, a couple of days then we’re heading to Freedom. I got us a short-term raiding contract; we’ll head out when the ships are re-fueled. We’ll get more details from the office on Freedom.” He said walking into the DropShip as the doors closed behind them.
“Good, I never did like staying in one place too long.” She said back to him as they walked. Three days later as planned the unit boosted off the surface of Tharkad with two new crewmen with both Yvon Carpenter and Niklas Deveraux accepting terms with Aksel to join the Crescent Hawks with Niklas wife, daughter and Slipper all joining them as well. At the rate things were going with Aksel’s own daughter Jezebel and now Niklas’ daughter Cherie he might have to think of setting up a school as well.
Almost as soon as the two DropShips arrived in orbit a call rang through the Gold Rover “Captain Youngblood to the bridge, Captain Youngblood to the bridge!” The call repeated several times finishing just as Aksel arrived on the bridge.
“What’s up? We’ve barely left Tharkad.” He asked glancing around the cockpit monitors displayed what was happening outside the ship but they were pretty useless even their other DropShip, the Trenchant was tiny on the video screen.
“We have and incoming transmission from them” Captain Frank Connolly said indicating to the sensor screen which showed a Leopard CV burning hard towards them, Aksel glanced at the data and saw it was the Apennines the same ship that had carried the Lockheed-CBM pilots.
“Seriously, put them up” he ordered the communication channel crackled until it filled the room.
“This is Lieutenant Kelly DeBrusk, former employee of Lockheed-CBM to Captain Aksel Youngblood of the Crescent Hawks. Sir, we’re requesting to join formation and a place within the Crescent Hawks the Lockheed offices on Tharkad are all but abandoned we don’t have a home at the moment.” The aerospace fighter squadron pilot said as the ship continued to burn towards them.
“Captain, slow our speed, have the Trenchant do the same and put me on.” He ordered Connolly who nodded “Lieutenant DeBrusk, I’ll speak with my new head negotiator and have her draw up some contracts for your people.” He said pausing and thinking, he needed to figure out how to deal with their former employers too. “And I guess we’ll contact Lockheed with your contract termination papers. We’re heading for Freedom, welcome aboard.” He said signalling to Connolly to cut the channel “any more surprises?” He asked as the third DropShip joined the Leopard and Aurora-class ships in formation heading to the jump point.
Border conflict
Military District of Pesht, Draconis Combine
8th October 3115
On the far periphery border of the Draconis Combine Clan Lynx launch heavy raids against the systems of Echo, Lonacuning and Sayer. The system of Lonacuning falls almost without a battle as a group of weekend warriors attempt to resist the incoming Clansmen. Both Echo and Sayer offer more resistance however with two Pesht Regulars Regiments and the Seventh Ghost Regiment defending these two worlds. The invasion force against Sayer is led by a determined Lynx force commanded by Star Colonel Zdeno Deleportas who commands the elite-rated Lynx Spirit Cluster and the former Rasalhague Dominion WarShip the Lioness. The York-class WarShip was one of the Rasalhague Dominion’s oldest WarShips and was once part of the Smoke Jaguar Clan.
The Lynx Spirit Cluster has been recently rebranded from the 201st Nova Cat Spirit Cluster which was part of Upsilon Galaxy which broke away from the Nova Cat Clan to join Clan Lynx. The entire Upsilon Galaxy in Clan Lynx has been re-branded as the Lynx’s new Lynx Spirit Galaxy with each Cluster re-branded and reinforced as part of the new Clan. Part of this reinforcement is an entire star of armour units and an entire star of conventional infantry forces which bulk out the command’s numbers significantly. While a new assault BattleMech named the Bjorn is seen among all Lynx forces.
According to both Draconis Combine and Star League Defence Force Intelligence organisations the Bjorn is built primarily in the Rasalhague Dominion. This eighty-ton BattleMech is capable of a running speed of sixty-four kilometre per hour and a jump capability of up to one hundred-and-twenty metres. The Mech is armed with a pair of large lasers, an autocannon, a Mech-sized mortar and a flamethrower.
On Echo the two Pesht Regulars units push back against the Lynx force holding their positions with the Twenty-first Pesht Regulars Regiment essentially being sacrificed in the defence of the world with its survivors folded into its sister regiment the Seventeenth Pesht Regulars. The governors of Echo called on Pesht to further support their defences.
Executive Meeting Room, Cenotaph Box
Jungle Arena, Solaris VII
Independent Clan Space Inner Sphere
21st August 3115
Below inside the Jungle Arena on Solaris VII a grudge match between two Mechs from Tanderek Stables and two Mechs from Cenotaph Stables was being fought as MechWarriors worked out their differences in the only way they knew how. Tanderek Stables had links to the Capellan Confederation while Cenotaph was linked more closely to the Federated Suns and more particularly St Ives Allard-Liao family. Standing taking a passing interest in the game below Star League Protectorate Leader Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion instead was deep in his memories as he remembered standing in this box with his friend and Solaris VII legend Kai Allard-Liao, while Victor was booked into this Stable’s box today under an assumed name the current owners knew exactly who was here and had been honoured to host their founder’s friend. Kai Allard-Liao had been a gifted MechWarrior and fought in dozens of games on Solaris VII winning the majority of them while also serving in the original Clan War with Victor which was where the two of them had become fast friends a friendship that had lasted until Kai’s passing in 3081.
“You’re far away again” his wife Danai Centrella-Davion said quietly squeezing his hand she had known Kai Allard-Liao more by reputation than by experience. She’d met him during the later stages of the Clan war when she’d first met Victor but she hadn’t become close friends with Kai as Victor had.
“Just remembering this world brings back a lot of memories.” He said quietly “and remembering just how old I am.” He said quietly squeezing her hand back.
“Solaris independence makes it a good place for a meeting, less prying eyes. Even the Clans respect the right for anyone to travel to the Game World and enjoy the games.” She said the Clan Watch knew Victor was here even though he’d arrived under an alias his face was recognizable anywhere in the Inner Sphere, but as long as he didn’t interfere with what was happening on Solaris, the agreement between the Star League and Clans was that they would leave him alone to enjoy the games. “And you’re as young as you feel, don’t let anyone tell you your old.” She said jokingly.
“Ha, I wish that were true and I could remain as beautiful as you are.” He said turning towards her embracing his wife since they had left the Federated Suns and entered the Protectorate, she was the one person he trusted absolutely. On the arena floor Saviour Mech recovery vehicles were removing the fallen Tanderek BattleMechs with the remaining Cenotaph BattleMech making a victory tour of the arena.
“How do you think this will go?”
“I fear badly.” Victor admitted watching the wreckage continue to be cleaned “Unfortunately I cannot give Ilse everything she wants.”
“Hesperus II” Danai said quietly naming one of the most important worlds in the Lyran Commonwealth.
“Yes, Skye currently has devolved powers of self-government simply because Tharkad allows them to.” He said “if Tharkad wanted to take back the Isle they could even with the Falcons pressing them. I will not give the Isle a reason to start a Civil War in the Commonwealth over Hesperus II. Even if it would benefit the Star League.”
“We could hold Hesperus II; it would be a great boon to Protectorate production.” She suggested playing devil’s advocate for him, while she was not part of the Star League Protectorate’s political structure, she was a key part of his.
“Yes, we could” he said quietly “but the Protectorate was formed to protect the worlds under its charge. I will not use it offensively against a member state.” He said “to do so would break the Star League and to break the Star League would break any sort of support structure we have that holds us together against the Clans. The Protectorate is not ready to become a new Hegemony, despite what Stone suggests.” He said naming Director-General Devlin Stone the leader of the Star League’s Kittery Prefecture who recently had vocally been calling on the Star League to push through the Capellan Confederation and link the main protectorate with his worlds in Kittery.
“Which returns us to Skye, you won’t help them break from the Commonwealth.”
“I won’t cause a war.” He said “I have started plenty of them in the past. The Isle of Skye has its own decisions to make about its future. If it finds a way to peacefully separate from the Commonwealth then I would entertain it but for now we can only offer them support through the Lyran state.”
“What’s left of it.” She said quietly continued rumours out of House Steiner made it absolutely clear that Tharkad was being turned into a fortress world intent on holding out against any invader regardless of the damage that was done to it while the nation’s leadership was moving to Carlisle.
“House Steiner can hold.” He said still proud of his heritage “and they have a better chance of holding with both Skye’s and our help.” He suggested “we just need to make Ilse see that.” He finished off as there was a knock at the door moments later his assistant arrived announcing the arrival of their guest Duchess Ilse Kelswa-Aten, the Duchess of Skye and the Duchess of Tamar (in-Exile).
As Victor Steiner-Davion had suspected the Duchess of Skye wished to break the entire Isle of Skye from the Lyran Commonwealth using the firepower of the Star League Defence Force to make House Steiner give up their claim to Hesperus II and the Mech factories based there. With five Clans pressing the Isle from various directions Ilse believed the only way to ensure their freedom was to look for assistance beyond the Lyran realm as House Steiner geared its defences to holding Tharkad and Coventry. The Exarch went to great pains to explain to Ilse that using Star League forces to attack a member state was not the way to ensure the freedom of her people instead she needed to work with the Lyran Commonwealth and Star League to push back against the Clans and only together could they blunt the Clan push. Instead of pushing for the Independence of the Isle Victor suggests another meeting takes place between the Star League, Skye and House Steiner to push back against the Clans.
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Basic Training, Police Headquarters
Tellman IV, Raven Alliance
28th August 3115
For years the Snow Ravens and Outworlds Alliance had slowly morphed from being a periphery state and Clan into one nation known as the Raven Alliance. During those years of transition, the dominant Snow Ravens who had grown to rule the nation had allowed small independent units to continue to operate within their borders protecting the worlds that needed help but that the Ravens didn’t want to spare main line units on. One of these small units was known as the Thermo Police a unit that had served and protected dozens of Outworlds Alliance worlds for decades providing a roving Police force which units using limited resources.
In recent years losses had seen the Thermo Police significantly reduced in members making future operations unlikely, but now the Ravens wished to see the unit restored to its former strength and continue its work in protecting the Ravens periphery worlds and to explore the Outworlds Wastes. To support these efforts a group of young enthusiastic warriors and a couple of aged veterans had been assigned to boost up the numbers of the unit.
Walking towards the Thermo Police’s Headquarters building through the built-up snow outside MechWarrior Karl of Bloodhouse Kanter saw an imposing red brick building with multiple black and white painted vehicles parked in front of it most of them looked like they were modified civilian cars and transport vans instead of military units. From the front, the building looked like it was bigger than most in the area and it extended backwards several hundred metres into where there was a large hanger which held the unit’s BattleMechs. While the building was imposing it had not been Karl’s choice to join, He’d passed his first Trial of Position with only a single kill which had earned him the position of a MechWarrior but hadn’t given him much of a choice of assignments. Instead, while some of his sibkin were headed to the Draconis Combine of Federated Suns units Karl was headed to the periphery border, When Karl had heard of the assignment he’d begun to plan, he still desired an assignment a front-line unit so he could win honour for his Clan and have a chance at competing for a Bloodname. To do this he would make the most of the situation he was in and ensure he was successful.
Entering the facility Karl and the other eight recruits were confronted by a room that looked like it was about three hundred years old and out of some sort of ancient fictional drama, ninety percent of the room looked like it was made of dark wood with a tall central desk manned by a clerk in the middle of the room with doors behind leading deeper into the facility and a set of stairs that led up either side of the room to upper floors, there were also doors down each side of the ground floor leading to further rooms.
This main room was filled with people some were civilians who were sat on benches that run the length of the wall he’d entered at, others were who looked like staff members were dressed dark blue uniforms and what must have been prisoners dressed in orange jumpsuits, who were being moved by those in blue between rooms. The room was dominated by an imposing figure of a man dressed in tradition looking clothing made of thick layers of weather resistant cloth which would serve him well in the icy wastes of Tellman IV. Other than his clothing Karl noticed was his age, the man was at least a hundred years old, but despite his age he stood tall and proud and he wore a thick braided mane of hair which was tied back behind his head in a knot which only added to his size.
“I am Kotori Nostra, the Commandant of these Headquarters, before your minds hurt you no, I am not a former member of the Nova Cat Clan and I do not follow visions.” He said his large frame was matched by his deep voice. “My parents were from Clan Nova Cat and were part of a Clan intelligence mission Intelser which scouted the Inner Sphere before the Clan Invasion they did not abandon the Clans they were left to fend for themselves as were many of the Intelser members after that mission was completed.” He explained Intelser was a mission that was launched by the then exclusively Homeworld based Clans in 2984 it was designed to gather intelligence on the Inner Sphere. “I and my family carry their name to honour their service and their lives, if you trueborns have a problem with it deal with it as I will not be changing for you.” He said defiantly bloodnames were sacred to the Clans but this man did not care and despite his age he could probably give the Ravens a fight for it. “And to answer your next question yes I am actually that old I was born in 3010 and I have served as a MechWarrior defending those who need it since before many of the warriors who you are descendant of.” He said chuckling to himself as he saw the surprise cross many of their faces. “I expect as much discipline in these Headquarters than the discipline your Sibko trainers would have expected. You are warriors in your Clan’s eyes but I will expect you to excel in our training which you will pass before you are allowed in the field. We are here to serve and protect the people of the Alliance and of those who cannot protect themselves. We do not accept that the weak simply should perish, Clan Snow Raven’s leaders have seen to allow us to continue with those goals, I expect all of you to respect our choices or you will not last here.” He said as behind him from a set of stairs that led off to the right of the room walked another older man, he was younger than Nostra but still old by accepted Clan standards.
“Now that Commandant Nostra has introduced himself I am Captain Alec Oak, I am the commander of the unit when it is in field, welcome to the Thermo Police.” He said looking him over Karl could tell he was a MechWarrior despite being older than most warriors he had seen he was built like someone who could look after himself. “Prepare yourselves for some of the most intense training you have so far experienced, we with the Thermo Police are expected to serve and protect those we meet and do things that no other combat unit are capable of. We will have to solve problems on our own we will not always encounter enemies who are willing to fight by your Clan rules and we will not always be able to follow the path of honour.” He warned them Karl didn’t like the sound of what he was hearing but he was a lowly MechWarrior without a Bloodname if his Clan’s leadership supported the idea then he too would try the way of this strange unit.
“Do not expect all of the rules you learned in Clan school to help you with this unit, you need to be adaptable.” Alec Oak continued warning them all about what Karl had been thinking about, this was not a typical Clan unit assignment. Karl glanced around his fellow recruits the two older Raven warriors would probably be right at home here they didn’t need to prove themselves as a success to their Clansmen instead they only needed to survive until they met an honourable death, he and the other young recruit could learn to adapt and fight honourably within the rules of their own unit, but he wondered about the five ProtoMech warriors who were part of the unit. ProtoMech pilots were far from the most adaptable of warriors instead acting as a collective unit to engage enemies the enhancements built into their bodies made them weaker when separated from their machines over long periods but allowed them to absolute control nearly merging completely with the machine they piloted. He wondered why they had been assigned here since they could be a liability on the field.
“Over the next few weeks, you will collectively learn how this unit operates and we approach situations, you will learn the rules and laws that we live by. You will be tested mentally and physically I expect you all to succeed.” He said before turning and climbing back up the stairs leaving them with Kotori.
“You will be billeted in the Headquarters” Kotori said his deep voice “you have classes beginning tomorrow followed by several physical challenges and vehicle maintenance. It is a full schedule; I am sure you will all do well.” He said Karl thought he saw a smirk on the old man’s lips Karl didn’t know what he’d let himself in for but he was ready to try.
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Woah, didn't expect House Steiner in that much trouble this soon. Man...
Thermo Police sound like it will be fun. Name keep making me think of Miami Vice for some reason. ;D
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Brilliant updates but I can't help but feel that turning Tharkad into a fortress (Festung Tharkad?) is a bad idea, concentrating forces there might leave other worlds exposed and vulnerable.
The Thermo police sound awesome :) And as always, superb updates!
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The Thermo Police are of course the canon unit from the Spotlight On of the same name. They've got several more parts coming for their story. It's sort of a thing that's developing quite naturally as I'm writing the story line the same people will get several parts as it progresses and it'll bring us forward while also telling their stories.
I'm glad you both (and I hope others) liked the updates so far. Festung Tharkad? I like that I may have to use it, I know exactly where that story line is going so here goes.
The next Solaris Racing Event is from the previous threat I left a link to before the other update. I have cleaned it up a bit and added to it. I will have additional Racing Events in the distant future if anyone wants things added or to have a go at a race feel free I'll welcome it! I may even draw out your race just for fun (or feel free to give it a go).
Solaris Racing Event
Dunnet Forest, Thurso
Solaris VII, Independent Clan Territory
8th September 3115
The second event in the Solaris Racing League had come up quickly following the success of the first. Viewer ratings had gone through the roof and the Solaris Entertainment Company (SEC) had pushed and pushed for the next race to be brought forward to keep the hype rising but the newly formed league had held its ground and kept to their planned schedule. As the racers and their support crews had packed up their equipment into a dozen GESV’s and other transport vehicles and traveled from San Bardo Canyon across Solaris to the city of Thurso near Dunnet Forest the SEC had contented itself with highlights from the first race and in-depth interviews with the racing drivers and close looks at the new aircraft in use over the Game World with feature presentations being shown regularly on Tri-Vid screens across Solaris.
This race track was longer than the San Bardo Canyon race and took place in and around the City of Thurso and the nearby Town of Crownkirk. From what the mayors of the two towns were passing onto the SEC every hotel room and hired house were booked out for the entire week. Additional housing had been brought in by a cargo DropShip with dozens of GESV’s configured to carry civilian housing cubicles. The Generic Expandable Service Vehicles were not comfortable living with some of the guests describing their “rooms” inside the vehicles and trailers as little more than brightly lit coffins long enough for a single sleeping cubicle, an overhead video recorder and shared toilet facilities but they provided sleeping accommodation for the die-hard fans. Already both Thurso and Crownkirk were considering building holiday home expansion areas should the race season return a second year.
High above Solaris waiting for the next race to begin sitting in his ASF-23 Protector Aircraft Jonnie Mjalby wasn’t thinking about the sleeping accommodation of his fans instead his thinking was focused on the race ahead. He felt pretty confident his win at San Bardo had been partly because of a decent time and partly because the public had gotten behind his race style but today was a whole new challenge. The San Bardo Canyon relied on maneuverability over speed Dunnet Forest/Thurso Racetrack on the other hand depended on speed with several long straights on which Mjalby’s Protector would struggle with.
Listening to the announcer Rick de Graff Mjalby maintained his altitude at just over two hundred metres and maintained cruising speed on his main HUD he saw the countdown timer had started. “Today ladies and gentlemen here high in the skies above Solaris, our winner from the previous race Jonnie Mjalby, piloting an ASF-23 Protector aircraft, begins proceedings the others will be using his time as a benchmark and watching his performance for tips. Good luck Mjalby!” He said as he did the countdown timer hit zero and Mjalby banked his aircraft below one hundred metres and headed for the starting line.
Unlike San Bardo Canyon the Dunnet Forest was designed from the ground up as a spectator stadium with dozens of stands filled with a live audience just to add to the pressure on the pilots. Now was not the time to think of spectators Mjalby thought as his fighter crossed the starting line. Almost immediately he turned the Protector into a hard-right turn onto the first straight maintaining altitude of eight metres he flew past the towering spectator stand on his left-hand side before heading out across the Thurso River which bisected the course. The trip across the choppy river water was a short one and Mjalby was quickly over land again entering the first stadium section known locally as Pittodrie.
The area was essentially an oval cut out of the forest with spectator stands, multiple food and drink stands and medical facilities on all side’s spectator safety was paramount but if one of the planes crashed in the stands it would be carnage. Mjalby had not intention of creating such a scene and maintained an even speed as he flew into the area ignoring the flashing lights from the stands, he concentrated on making the perfect right-hand turn fighting the g-forces put against his body he clenched his muscles forcing the blood back towards his brain as the aircraft completed the turn the speeds travelling at and maneuvers he was attempting were relatively low-g force turns but anything placed on the body could cause issues if the pilot was not prepared. Leveling out his fighter leapt forward as he accelerated and Pittodrie Stadium was a memory as quickly as it had entered his mind. After the stadium the fighter was heading back across Thurso River flying parallel to the Interstate Highway 16 Bridge passing by the town of Crownkirk where more spectators were cheering him on and watching the race on massive Tri-Vid screens Mjalby intentionally tipped the wings while maintaining speed giving the public a little show.
The Protector quickly passed over the Road Tunnel leading into the town and then Mjalby pushed the aircraft into a shallow dive slowing his speed slightly he entered Nevis Tunnel, a man-made paved tunnel through the hard rock of the same name. Following the “S-Bend” track of the Tunnel Mjalby accelerated as he exited entering the second stadium Hillhead.
Smaller than Pittodrie but still packed with people Hillhead was a loop with four tight left turns and one tight right turn. Too fast you’d overshoot and have to raise in altitude to turn and re-enter the course losing time and points, too slow and this section would cost you valuable time. Mjalby’s Protector was well suited for this section maintaining the same speed he held the turn again fighting the g-forces once more he put on a show and the crowd loved it. As with the previous stadium section Hillhead Stadium passed quickly and he was soon heading back into Dunnet Forest flying between the trees on one side and Nevis Rock on the other he followed the path of the course left around Nevis Rock and back towards Crownkirk and into the next section.
This part of the course Jonnie Mjalby knew his Protector was not well suited for it with long sweeping turns that took them through the forest and towards a raised area known as Beinn Hob. Here planes with a high-top speed would have a significant advantage the turns suited high-speed flying with relatively low g-forces there wasn’t much he could do but ride through the long turn and concentrate on not messing up. Raising out of the trees and up Beinn Hob Mjalby focused on the next section which would see him travel up, down and then up again long “S-Bend” over the hill which would take him into the third S-Bend. By the time Mjalby’s Protector had the hill for a second time he could see the third stadium section the Daniel Keith Stands. Named for one of the founders of Crownkirk the Daniel Keith Stands jutted out of the side of Beinn Hob and Mjalby felt a little sorry for the packed spectators below as the winds up the side of the hill buffeted the area. But he wasn’t here to feel sorry for them or watch the crowd however instead he was here for an almost leisurely right turn between the stands followed by a second right turn that took him back down the hill and into Dunnet Forest. According to the race guide this section could catch a pilot off guard as the trees appeared to come up rapidly as the aircraft accelerated down the hill and back into the forest but they were no trouble for Mjalby who carried on the straight towards the bridge of Interstate Highway 16.
Unlike his previous encounter with the ground road this time the course took Mjalby’s fighter under the huge bridge that connected Thurso with other parts of the region. He could see plenty of spectators and emergency services in the area watching his fifty-ton fighter pass under the bridge and then once cleared from that obstacle make an immediate right turn under a natural rock formation known as Angelica’s Archway. From there Mjalby crossed the Thurso River for a third and last time now entering Thurso itself to finish the race. Along the sides of the course there were lines of trees which helped dampen the noise for the residence of the city who were only a few hundred feet away. The trees also hid energy barriers similar to those in the Solaris Mech arenas which were designed to absorb an aircraft hitting them and force the craft either into the ground or into the air Mjalby hoped if he ever hit any of them it was the latter result and not the former.
Travelling past the trees Mjalby’s Protector entered the final section known as the Janet Porter Stadium, again named after a founder of Thurso, it was a commercial haven like the other spectator stands with food, drink and advertising throughout designed like the rest of this course to make money little else. Flying around the series of left turns Mjalby intentionally rolled the aircraft in a barrel roll showing off for the crowd counting on their votes to help keep him up the boards as they headed into the final race of the season. Making the last left turn before the finish line Mjalby knew that speed alone would not help him win and instead pulled the aircraft back doing a loop-the-loop just short of the finish line adding a little flourish to his performance.
As he flew away from the course Jonnie Mjalby knew all he could do now was wait for the other competitors to finish. There were seven other competitors that would follow him five of those aircraft would outrun his Protector in open flight he just had to hope the crowds were still on his side or one of the others made a mistake.
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Hours later the final competitor had crossed the line and the spectator vote had been counted leaving Jonnie with a fourth-place finish. During the course of the other competitors flights Irene Steele the Guardian pilot who had come second in the San Bardo Canyon run had lost control of her fighter and crashed. She’d been able to eject but the fighter was a right-off in the medical GESV Mjalby visited her they’d known each other for years competing in various one-off events.
“Glad to see you made it out of that wreck in one piece” he said greeting her Irene was the same age as Jonnie Mjalby, twenty-six, originally from the Federated Suns she’d moved to Solaris sixteen years before when her father had come looking for fame and fortune. He’d been killed in the Solaris Mech Arenas and Irene had decided that life was not for her instead taking aerospace fighter lessons with the intention of gaining a position within the LCAF. Things hadn’t turned out that way and instead she’d started flying acrobatics on Solaris to make money now that income had been taken from her.
“Yeah, Segura didn’t come out of it so well.” Irene replied, the fighter had been destroyed in the crash. “That’s me out, I see you didn’t do so well either?”
“Still there” Jonnie Mjalby said looking down at his injured friend. “Listen, I asked the doc you’re still flight capable; your injuries are not all that severe.”
“Thanks for reminding me Jonnie, but I’m lacking a fighter.”
“I happen to have a spare” he said smirking he saw her surprised one fighter was expensive a second was nearly unheard of. “Juliusz Kamil decided to hang up his flight gloves before this tournament” he explained she’d heard the “Grandfather of Flight” had retired earlier in the year. “His Striking Cobra was going cheap.”
“I thought Kamil wanted to put it in a museum?”
“He did, it might still end up there, but it’s got more miles in it and I offered him more.” He admitted what Kamil wanted was important but the fighter belonged to him now.
“What difference does that make to me, Jonnie, I’ve barely got enough for my medical bills and to pay off the support staff. I’m out of this game.”
“I’ll give you the Striking Cobra” he said raising his hand to stop her speaking “on credit. You place in this tournament you pay me some of the money for it. You win it you can buy it outright from me.” He suggested offering her a lifeline he could see tears in her eyes.
“Why?” She croaked
“You deserve to see it to the end, just don’t crash that thing before I get a chance to fly it.” He said winking to her before turning to leave. With her last place at Dunnet Forest she was fourth place in the championship out of the major money-making positions but still in touching distance to the leaders going into the last round at the Slanotov Industrial Zone in Solaris Arctic Zone. If she placed and he didn’t at least he’d get some of the money back from this event.
Trade Mission, International Zone
Westover, Sea Fox Claimed territory
Free Worlds League
20th September 3115
The Clans and Mercenaries tended not to get on in fact most occasions Clan forces saw them as dezgra and hunted them to extinction. International Zones on Sea Fox trade worlds were different however, run by Clan merchants the warrior caste was here only to ensure Inner Sphere visitors were not armed and to take part in various Trials of Combat.
Mercenary commander Colonel Naomi Wrangler, the commander of The Thunder Road mercenary regiment, stood near the back of a crowd which had gathered to watch Smoke Jaguar leader Khan Petra Furey dispatch a Sea Fox Star Colonel in hand-to-hand combat. For several years now Naomi had been aware of the Smoke Jaguar faction for a couple of years now since she had taken over control of the Lesnovo District following a popular vote. According to intelligence reports she’d read from Bowang the Free World’s League’s Intelligence Agency SAFE had vetted these Smoke Jaguar survivors and found that they were not acting like the Clan they once were instead helping build up native populations. So far, the Smoke Jaguar faction had little contact with the Clans other than the traders here on Westover. As Naomi watched the young Khan dispatched a second Sea Fox warrior claiming victory in the Trial of Possession over an Elemental Battle Armour Production Facility. As far as Naomi knew up until now almost all of the Smoke Jaguar’s power armour had been of the Nighthawk type built on the world of Niops. For them now to possess Elemental Power Armour was a significant upgrade in capabilities.
As she stood and watched the Clans exchange pleasantries not the battle was over, she felt the approach of Lt. Colonel Ariel Peregrine-Simpson, the former co-commander of the Chaos Irregulars, like her fellow co-commander she’d accepted the new rank when her unit joined The Thunder Road. “I’ll never understand them” Ariel said watching the Clansmen, as a former commander of a unit herself Naomi had given Ariel and Jake leeway when they spoke with her, allowing them to voice their opinions and join her on this mission.
“No, me neither” Naomi admitted the Clans were alien to them even if they were willing to trade with anyone willing to pay. “How did you do?” She asked she’d tasked Ariel with securing transport assets for the Thunder Road given that their command was bigger now than ever. Although a significant military asset the Sea Foxes allowed any trades to occur in the International Zone as long as they were done peacefully, to enforce this both women had given up their weapons when they arrived.
“Not bad, but also not great” she said “Free Worlds League rejects I’m afraid.” She admitted they’d hoped for Clan equipment but Naomi had ordered her to buy what they could afford and what they needed, not wants. “Three Hamilcar DropShips for a cut down price.” Ariel said Naomi didn’t much like the sound of it and her face probably showed it, the Hamilcar was a very specialist design mainly intended for Zero-G assaults. “The Sea Foxes captured them when they captured Westover but no-one had taken any interest in them so they modified them a little bit.” Ariel reassured her explaining her choice. “On each ship they removed a pair of aerospace fighter bays and gave them a bit more fuel making them more useful in an atmosphere, they then streamlined the guns to Particle cannons, long and short-range missiles and anti-missile systems.” She explained “less to break on all three of them, they’ll be easier to maintain and they’ve got better range and uses. I’d class them almost like a modified Leopard.”
“Well, we won’t likely be launching any space borne assaults in the near future but I’ll take the chance to move a company in a pinch. We’ll have to keep an eye on them but they might be worth it.” Naomi admitted “I got off a little better.” She said as the two of them moved away from the trial location. “They’ve started up a modified Dictator-class DropShip manufacturing line here on Westover but sales have been dismal, no-one knows what to expect from them.” She said the design had been modified with more modern weapons and defences and had a reconfigured cargo bay. “The Clans themselves don’t want to buy an ancient DropShip design with Inner Sphere weapons even if it is configured to carry three Binaries of troops.” She explained the Sea Fox idea seemed to be to build up interest in the design and then improve it with Clan technology. “So, the trader was more than happy to turn one over to us, and if we spread the news of its use then we may get a kick-back from them in the future.”
“Sweet, now we just have to hire crews. Our current staff can probably get them back home but operational use will be more different.”
“Agreed, how do you think the boys are getting on?” By ‘the boys’ Naomi was referring to her father John Wrangler and Ariel’s former co-commander Jake Chowla.
“I’m sure Jake is doing his best to get into as much trouble as he can while away from the burden of command.” She admitted Jake’s continued recovery from losing his wife was being helped by her former command’s new place within the Thunder Road and time away from the unit would help too.
“Yes, I’m sure my father is doing the same. Our first major supply run since his retirement and he just happens to come along.” She mused wondering why her father came along.
“He trusts you Naomi, I’m sure of that, I think he mainly came for Jake’s benefit.” She said having been able to observe them a little bit. “You have done a lot for him since Reema’s death and the Chaos Irregulars becoming part of The Thunder Road has been great for him too but your father is quite active with him too.”
“He’s still grieving for my mother’s passing a few years ago and I think he sees Ob, as a bit of a project.”
“Ob?” Ariel questioned Jake’s first name was Obadiah but she rarely heard anyone else use it especially since Reema’s passing.
“Yes, I think my father sees Jake as a bit of a project, seeing a lot of my father in him.” She said dancing over Ariel’s question.
“Ob?” Ariel pushed
“I’m sure they are getting into trouble and will have a surprise for us, I’m sure.” Naomi said carrying on walking “Com’on, we’ll head back to the field we can inform the crews and have them come and collect our new DropShips while we wait.”
“Seriously Naomi? What the hell!” She said as the Colonel kept walking away from her not answering Ariel’s question the two of them were close in age and despite the hierarchy of command, they got on quite well personally but if Naomi didn’t want to share it didn’t seem like she would.
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Several hours later Naomi Wrangler was back at the landing field which the small contingent of Thunder Road personnel who had accompanied her. She’d arranged the collection of the units newest four DropShips and was now just waiting for her father to return but he was already an hour overdue. Now standing inside the command deck of the Overlord-class DropShip Stonewall she waited trying to show she was calm and not worried he was missing.
Suddenly the radio crackled to life “Road House to Stonewall, permission to approach” it said using her father’s old callsign. Naomi nodded to the crewmen who granted permission. “Received Stonewall, be prepared for a flyby.” Her father said which got Naomi’s attention her father was airborne? She walked over to the sensor desk and watched as from the south a two-hundred-and-forty-ton Koi Heavy Transport WiGE approached the airfield at speed flying low as the Wing-in-Ground-Effect aircraft were known for.
“What on earth?” Naomi wondered heading out of the command deck and down towards the ground. By the time she reached the ground the massive Koi was touching down on the tarmac it was painted in a deep red on the primary wide-bodied hull with the wings painted in black. She could see where insignia had been painted over but it was clearly the insignia of the Draconis Combine which wasn’t too surprising as the craft was designed and built there. How it had crossed the Inner Sphere and ended up in the arse-end of the Free Worlds League was anyone’s guess but here it was and it appeared to be commanded by her father. The craft was designed to land on land or in water with the hull curved underneath like the underside of a boat and the four turbine engines high above the waterline at the rear of the craft with two near the tail on either side of the craft and two more engines over the top of the hull. The massive craft larger than anything else in the Thunder Road’s organisation Naomi did not have a clue how they were going to get it back to Bowang.
Stopping several hundred metres from the Stonewall the massive clamshell doors at the front of the Koi opened with the nose of the craft splitting open like a massive sideways mouth. From inside the craft a ramp extended to the ground and locked in place. From inside she could hear the revving of fuel cell engines and within a couple of minutes the first of two large wheeled transport vehicles drove out. Both vehicles were the same painted in primarily blue and white the vehicles looked like long range transport trucks with extended trailers once they came out onto the ground, they turned to either side and stopped flanking Naomi’s position. From both sides the trucks and trailers of the vehicles opened automatically raising upwards creating a canopy over the side of the truck. From the inside of the truck counters extended and lowered to the ground creating service counters. From the cabs of the two trucks her father and Jake Chowla exited the vehicles heading over to them.
“Good afternoon, Colonel” her father greeted her formally as he approached.
“Father, what the hell?”
“This?” John Wrangler asked surveying the two vehicles and the Koi behind “this is for my retirement” he said “I’m calling it the Road House.” He explained “I’m not going to mope around the Complex back home, I need something to throw myself into this is going to be it. Bowang has a growing entertainment industry especially with all the mercs that have come through in the recent years but outside Darby they don’t have many entertainment venues. Road House is the answer, we’re going to travel across Bowang and we’re going to bring the entertainment to the people and bring in some money for the unit.” John explained Naomi looked at Jake for support but he just smirked at the idea her father had retired but this idea seemed to reinvigorate him.
“How are we going to get it home?” She asked but almost on cue she had her answer as a purple and red painted Danis-class DropShip approached the airfield from a sub-orbital trajectory.
“The DropShip will transport the Koi and anything else we need then she’ll transfer to the Thunder Road full time, use it as you want Naomi myself and my silent business partner here” he said indicating to Jake “have bought the DropShip, the Koi and the GESV’s. Jake will assist me when he’s not deployed with the unit but over wise it’s my show.” He said Naomi glanced at the younger man who seemed like he relished the idea.
“Colonel, I’d expect your commitment to the Thunder Road to continue.”
“Understood, I know what I’ve signed up for.” He said but his eyes told her that he was thrilled by the idea of getting on the road with her father. “Road House will be a success as will the Thunder Road.” He promised her but Naomi couldn’t help but wonder what they’d gotten themselves in for.
Weapons Research Facility WD-1152
Rosice, Halfway Province
Lyran Commonwealth
28th September 3115
If the Lyran Commonwealth was not facing enough troubles with the Clans pressing at their borders and the Isle of Skye again pushing for a breakaway from the state on the world of Rosice in the Halfway province a huge explosion engulfs a weapons research facility killing dozens inside and dozens more in the nearby area costing millions of C-Bills. Within days of the explosion terrorists claiming to be part of the Democracy Now movement take responsibility for the attack.
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Royal Mechbay, Davion Royal Palace
Avalon City, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
16th October 3115
Walking slowly across the Mechbay’s floor Prince Luther Davion approached his father Burton Davion who stood in front of three BattleMechs which stood proudly waiting for orders. The first BattleMech was Hanse Davion’s famous Battlemaster “Dana” painted primarily in royal blue the number “24” was written in red on the right torso while two stripes one in red and one in white ran from the left shoulder down across the BattleMech to the floor. The BattleMech was over one hundred years old and was only moved once a month as the test pilots ensured its actuators did not seize up. Recently his father had suggested permanently moving it to a display in the city celebrating the successes of the Federated Suns during the Fourth Succession War. Luther stood and looked at the Mech as he approached his father and wondered why he cared for the BattleMech it had sat in this Mechbay for both of their lives and neither of them had met Hanse.
Next stood the Templar III which belonged to his father the eighty-five-ton OmniMech named “Dragon’s Wrath” by Burton Davion. The BattleMech was painted identically to the Battlemaster beside it.
Finally stood Luther’s own OmniMech the Dire Wolf known as “Prometheus” which had originally belonged to his grandfather Victor Steiner-Davion. Luther had piloted the BattleMech twice since returning to New Avalon but the pain from the injuries he took on Terra returned both times. The OmniMech was in the middle of being repainted with the traditional Steiner blue of the Lyran Guards with yellow piping highlights being painted over to match the others. Luther had not known about the new paint job but then he hadn’t been here for several weeks.
“How do you like it?” Burton asked seeing his son appear Burton was tall nearly six foot tall and broad shouldered far unlike his father Victor. Luther had fallen between the two slightly shorter than his father and slightly taller than Victor. They all had the same lightly coloured hair of most Davion men but unlike his father Luther had grown his hair out a bit as long as his shoulders.
“I had not been aware you were having Prometheus repainted” he said looking at the OmniMech.
“It is time, Victor’s time is over with the Federated Suns.” Burton said his father using his Grandfather’s first name felt strange to Luther but recently Burton’s opinion on his father had fallen significantly due to the political changes Victor Steiner-Davion had brought to the growing Protectorate. “The time for us to honour our link to House Steiner is over, now we must show pride in our own House and get you ready for the field.”
“I am not ready” Luther said “I have many studies to complete and my physio-therapy is not complete.”
“Your doctors say otherwise” Burton said angrily his voice raising.
“What do they know!” Luther snapped back at his father “each time I exercise the pain returns, I cannot pilot a BattleMech until my body is ready.” He complained “until then I will continue with my studies. These icons you are so proud of” he said nodding at the three Mechs standing silently “can wait for me to be ready.” He said turning to march off away from his father.
“Then perhaps your sister will accept the challenge of taming Prometheus if you are not willing!” Burton challenged his son to react but instead Luther kept walking. Luther’s sister Leah was seventeen and had already begun training as a BattleMech pilot but she had yet to begin real studies.
Objective Raid, Edasich Motors
Vesteralen, Forbidden Islands
Edasich, Hell’s Horses Occupation Zone
19th October 3115
After a brief Trial of Possession on Edasich against the Hell’s Horses defenders the Crescent Hawks were more than pleased with what they found at the the Edasich Motors production plant on the Forbidden Islands. When they had arrived Captain Aksel Youngblood had challenged the Clan defenders to a single production run of the contents of the Edasich Motors complex expecting a haul of the fusion engines that had been produced there since the fall of the first Star League. In a hard-fought battle, which had seen two Crescent Hawks BattleMechs fall and the death of MechWarrior Stephen Livingston the Crescent Hawks were victorious against a Trinary of Hell’s Horses from the Thirty-second Mechanized Strike Cluster. To the mercenaries surprise they found that Edasich Motors plant had been refurbished to produce Thor, or Summoner, OmniMechs by Clan Hell’s Horses and standing waiting for deployment were fifteen brand new machines.
With the loss of two of their own BattleMechs and a vacant slot within the Crescent Hawks already existing the Hawks had claimed three of the OmniMechs for themselves while the remaining twelve would go to their employers in Lyran Commonwealth space not a bad haul for a single raid. The Mechs were brand-new and lacked any security precautions of systems making them easy for the Hawk pilots to move them into the waiting DropShips.
Standing guard over the operation was Tassa Kay in her Ryoken II BattleMech. She watched as the brown painted OmniMechs were moved into the waiting DropShips and could help but smirk the Horses had been foolish to upgrade a factory so close to their front lines and then to accept a Trial despite having a full cluster defending it. She knew the Star Colonel in command of the Thirty-second would be facing a Circle of Equals following this failed operation for their failure to stop the Crescent Hawks which would likely cause them to do something rash.
As she stood guard over the loading operations something rash happened almost on queue a single Vulture, or Mad Dog, OmniMech painted in the brown, blue and gold camouflage paint scheme of the Thirty-second Mechanised Cluster approached their position. “Contact, single Mad Dog OmniMech approaching. I am intercepting them.” She said pivoting her Ryoken’s stance towards the incoming Mad Dog switching her communication system to a general frequency she challenged the enemy Mech just as it walked into range of her particle cannons. “I am Tassa Kay of the Crescent Hawks; we are loading our Isorla into the DropShips as agreed upon by our victory in the Trial of Possession. Identify youself and the reason you are here.” She challenged the incoming pilot.
“I am Star Colonel Tvedten Ravenwater of Clan Hell’s Horses I declare a Trial of Refusal against the Crescent Hawks.”
“There is no Trial of Refusal following a Trial of Possession.” Tassa Kay said shooting down the challenge “however, I will allow you to fight in a Circle of Equals with me to show your people that you tried to win honour.” She offered him she saw her personal radio link to Aksel Youngblood was active, he was no doubt monitoring her, but she ignored it, this was something he couldn’t understand a battle between warriors over more than possessions.
“I accept your terms warrior; may no other enter.”
“Seyla” Tassa said accelerating her Mech forwards she fired paired particle cannon blasts from the two torso mounted cannons. The man-made lightning bolts crossed the distance between the two Mechs with one slamming into the Mad Dog’s right leg while the other ripped up the ground beside the Mech. A wave of heat surged through Tassa’s cockpit as her the BattleMech’s heat sinks struggled with her weapons fire Tassa ignored the heat build up and instead turned her Mech to the right firing the Mech’s jump jets launching it into the sky just as a pair of large laser blasts slammed into her Mech’s left arm. The heat from the lasers burned into her seventy-five-ton BattleMech’s arm but she ignored it, there were no weapons there, instead Tassa feathered the engine throttles expertly bringing the Ryoken II down with her heat now lower she fired another pair of particle cannon blasts towards the Mad Dog just as the sixty-ton Mech fired forty long range missiles back at her.
As the flight of forty missiles flew towards her Tassa accelerated the Ryoken II into the fire closing the range between the two Mechs. Missiles slammed against her Mech as she closed on the lighter Mad Dog at range the way the warrior had configured his BattleMech he actually outgunned her at range but as the distance closed between them the weapons would favour her. As the range ticked down, she saw her particle cannons had recharged and she fired again at the Mad Dog just as her enemy fired his lasers again. The armour of her Ryoken II held up under the onslaught but she was glad to see the Mad Dog’s didn’t as one of her particle cannon blasts tore through the armour covering its torso and tore the long-range missile launcher to pieces. The Mad Dog staggered backwards with the loss of the launcher but it didn’t stop the warrior returning fire with another volley of missiles from its remaining launcher most of the missiles missed her still charging Ryoken II but a few hit their target smashing armour on her Mech’s right torso.
“Well done” Tassa commented cutting to the right twisting the Ryoken’s waist to track her target she opened up with both medium lasers mounted there and as soon as the computer gave her a tone the twelve streak short range missiles as well. The heat produced by these weapons was far less than her particle cannons but the damage was not the lasers burned across the Mad Dog’s armour while the streak missiles caused explosions all over the Mech’s left leg and arm which buckled and then broke the large and medium laser there hanging loose away from the OmniMech.
Ravenwater didn’t give up his OmniMech was damaged but not out of the fight as Tassa’s Ryoken II circled he forged forwards unexpectedly and caught her slightly by surprise firing his remaining large and medium laser as well as a flight of long-range missiles into the back of her OmniMech “Stavag!” She shouted angrily firing the Ryoken II’s jump jets she launcher her Mech into the air angling the Mech backwards the seventy-five-ton unconventionally jumped backwards. She fought her instincts allowing the Mech to fall towards the ground she pulled the primary triggers as her Mech came towards the ground sending two particle cannons shots straight into the back of the Mad Dog. At the same time Tassa fired her own Mech’s jump jets one last time countering the falling Mech’s trajectory keeping her Mech standing as it landed on the ground.
The Mad Dog was not as lucky one particle cannon blast tore through the Mad Dog’s right torso vapourizing the armour there blowing through the long-range missile ammunition. The OmniMech’s built in CASE panels blew away from the Mech channeling the blast away from critical components but the ammunition was gone. The second blast tore straight through the back of the Mech punching straight into the OmniMech’s gyroscope destroying it as well. Without the gyro the Mech’s fight was over and the Mad Dog fell forwards giving into the battle with gravity as it slammed into the ground disabled. “MechWarrior Tvedten Ravenwater you are defeated in single battle, I will spare you the embarrassment of returning to your unit following the defeat by a dezgra mercenary and I claim you and your Mech as Isorla, you both belong to me until I decide if you deserve to return to MechWarrior status.” She said opening up the communication channel once more letting the MechWarrior know his fate. She saw that Aksel Youngblood was still waiting to speak to her. “Go ahead Captain.” She said, she was sure he’d be able to tell she was smiling following her personal victory.
“Nice fight, Tassa, the Horses should have known better than to challenge a victor after their battle.” He said she’d almost expected him to try and give her into trouble for her actions but instead he was supportive? Perhaps the time he’d spent with the Kell Hounds and exiled Wolves had done him well, there was hope for Aksel Youngblood. Following the end of the battle the Crescent Hawks completed their loading from Edasich Motors and left the planet soon afterwards. The Union-class DropShip carrying the captured Summoner OmniMechs would go to Freedom while the Crescent Hawks were heading back to Galatea Station.
Meeting Room, SLSS Swartklip Major
Swartklip, Star League Protectorate
Periphery
28th October 3115
The news had filtered into Swartklip that morning that forces of the Stone Spirits had raided Elume, Kwangjong-ni, Ma’anshan and Issaba this morning. Elume’s defenders the First Obsidian Lancers had held as had the forces hired to protect Issaba and Ma’anshan but Kwangjong had fallen to the clan raiders. The lack of Lyran Commonwealth defenders was telling for those in the Swartklip system, which was protected by the Star League Defence Force it was also telling for representatives of Elume, Sweet Water, Canal, Tsarahaven and Howick that as they met onboard the Star League Space Station Swartklip. This fact was further supported as during the meeting the civilian run MS Glomar Explorer, an Explorer-class Mobile Refinery run by the Belters of the Sol system, and two Monolith-class JumpShips filled with supples arrived in the Swartklip system to further support building up the world. The presence of SLDF ground forces and naval forces in the region only added to the sense that the SLDF was supporting the worlds it protected while the Lyran Commonwealth was forgetting them.
Raid in Force
Zanzibar, Tamarind
Wolf Empire
31st October 3115
Lasers and missiles criss-crossed the battlefield as the four Havoc BattleMechs led a group of vehicles towards in a breakout from Zanzibar spaceport. Behind the Havocs came a group of eight Partisan AA Vehicles and a group of R10 Infantry Fighting Vehicles. Each of the vehicles and Mechs were painted in the colours of the First Tamarind Militia as it raided the world of Tamarind taking the Wolf defenders by surprise. The Mechs were painted mostly purple with a red sash that ran from its right shoulder down towards and over the entirety of the left leg while the vehicles were primarily purple with red turrets. Over the days before their two combined arms battalions had been brought to the world right under the Wolves noses aboard cargo DropShips hidden within cargo containers and now they were striking out.
The raid’s objectives were for the ground forces to break free from the spaceport and charge towards the Wolves manufacturing plant at the former Graham-Davies Manufacturing site to the north. The aim of the raid was to destroy the facility in its entirety.
Bursting from the spaceport short range missiles and laser fire from a pair of Havocs turned one of the sentry guard towers into a burning mess as the two light Mechs ran out. Behind them the Partisans opened fire on the Wolves initial reaction forces which was made up of a flight of Red Kite Attack VTOLs. The sight of the Free Worlds League designed VTOL serving Clan Wolf had angered the Tamarind troopers and now they had an opportunity to take them out, from two Partisans paired LBX-class Autocannons filled the air with flak munitions. Each of the four Red Kites took multiple hits as the cluster munitions exploded around them immediately one of the Kites lost power to its right engine as multiple pieces of shrapnel slammed into the VTOL’s thin armour and pulverized the engine unit housed there. As the other engine failed to compensate and the twenty-five-ton craft spun out of control to the ground slamming down hard against the tarmac it exploded. Two of the Red Kites returned fire against the vehicles their nose mounted chemical lasers glowed momentarily as the weapons were loaded with ammunition and then they fired melting armour on a pair of Partisans below more autocannon munitions slammed into the VTOLs even as one of the Partisans exploded open its front armour completely melted away.
From behind the Partisans a flight of long-range missiles followed by a particle cannon blast flew quickly into one of the remaining Red Kits penetrating the aircraft below and behind the forward cockpit the twin attack shattered the control section from the mid-line engine modules. Lasers and then the roar of an Ultra-class autocannon joined the attack as a second Red Kite was torn to pieces in a hail of weapons fire from the leading purple and red coloured Anzu class BattleMech.
The radio channels crackled open as another three sixty-ton Anzu BattleMechs joined the fire “I am Duke Robert Brett-Marik, the true Heir to Tamarind and I am here with my fellow Tamarind citizens in the First Militia to oppose Clan Wolf’s rule over our homeworld.”
“Finally,” the voice a response came as the Free Worlds League’s sensors lit up with contacts “when the Clan Watch said that forces hostile to Clan Wolf’s rein here on Tamarind had arrived, I wished to challenge you immediately but I was cautioned not to. Instead, we have waited for you, waited for you to display your strength and now that you have you will meet the Wolfkin Keshik in battle. I am Galaxy Commander Herbert Kerensky and I will be your end.” The Clan warrior laughed as a Vulture Mk III stood up from its concealed position from the Mech a point of Elementals disembarked from its hull and on either side of it nine other OmniMechs stood up each carrying a point of Elementals. It was clear the Wolves had laid in wait for them to move and they were more than prepared for the attack.
“We will fight for our home and we will win.” Robert Brett-Marik said defiantly targeting the Vulture III with his particle cannon and autocannon which were in range the particle cannon had not fully charged and it sparked against the hull of the heavily armoured Clan OmniMech while the autocannon went wildly wide soaring through the sky past the Mech. With their battle decided the Vulture III returned fire with eighty long range missiles. The missiles arced over the battlefield and blanketed the Anzu in waves battering the heavy BattleMech in waves which exploded all over the armour and the ground beside the Mech. Under such fire Robert struggled to keep his BattleMech standing stepping back under the waves of fire stumbling backwards the Anzu dropping to a knee. Either side of the Anzu the other Free Worlds League troops were under heavy attack from the the other Wolf forces. Bringing his BattleMech back up to his feet Robert saw that the Vulture III was on the move walking towards his position with more long-range missiles arcing over the battlefield towards him. Robert braced the BattleMech for more hits and fired his own long-range missiles in return fire against the Clan Wolf OmniMech. His ten missiles passed the eighty incoming missiles in mid-air and flew towards the Vulture III as the Mech continued to close on his position missiles rained down on his position. A flight of long-range missiles slammed into the top of the Anzu’s head section rattling Robert Brett-Marik’s cockpit, the MechWarrior strapped into his command chair was thrown around the cockpit like a rag doll as he tried to maintain control of his under-fire machine. “Continue to fire! Any unit that can breakout do so and head to targeted plant!” He ordered his troops over the roar of fire inside his cockpit “we must complete this mission or it maybe our last!” He said defiantly at the same time he sent an encrypted message to one of the cargo DropShips located within the spaceport. Moments later he received a message from the DropShip stating his command was understood “our friends will be here soon” he said targeting the charging Vulture III with his autocannon again explosive ammunition battered the enemy Mech with fire.
The plan had never been for this to be a one-way mission for Robert he wished to hurt the Wolves and if possible, liberate Tamarind but there was always a plan to escape. Just beyond Tamarind orbit the second phase of the battle began as the WarShips Sardis, Abbey and Stormos jumped into the system disgorging more than a dozen DropShips and hundreds of aerospace fighters. The majority of the fighters, several DropShips and the WarShips Abbey and Stormos turned to engage the three Wolf Lola IV-class Destroyers which were protecting the shipyards over Tamarind. The Impavido-class Abbey and the Monolisk-class Stormos would be outgunned by the three Wolf vessels but they had a significant advantage in small craft over the defending Wolves. The Sardis with its lighter armour and smaller capital grade weapons arrays remained at long-range providing support and a base for the aerospace fighters to reload should they need it.
Meanwhile several DropShips carrying two ground force regiments hard burned towards Tamarind intent on reinforcing the ground forces. Should they be able to link up the combined firepower had a chance of liberating Tamarind from the Wolves and robbing them of their only shipyard. Unfortunately for the Free Worlds League troops they had discounted the Wolves readiness to protect the system and from the surface rose an entire star of Isegrim-class Assault DropShips along with dozens of aerospace fighters to engage them. In space, the upper atmosphere and on the ground, battle was engaged between the two forces.
Fighting for his life on the ground Robert Brett-Marik cut in his Anzu’s jump jets attempting to jump over the Vulture III which had closed in on him. He fired his autocannon as he jumped targeting the Clan Wolf Mech as he went autocannon rounds exploded all over the Vulture III. Unfortunately for Robert the Clan warrior had at his disposal six extended range medium lasers for close in battle as the Anzu flew over the Vulture III the red laser blasts cut into and then through the knee of the Anzu shattering already damaged armour which had been pocketed by missile blasts the lasers penetrated the armour and caused the knee actuator of the Anzu to critically fail as the jumping Mech began to fall towards the ground. As Robert Brett-Marik’s BattleMech landed the damaged knee actuator collapsed taking most of the lower leg with it the Anzu stumbled forwards and then fell crashing to the ground.
In the cockpit of the Mech Robert Brett-Marik awoke realizing that he had been knocked out by the Anzu’s landing he immediately attempted to bring the Anzu back to its feet and turned looking for Herbert Kerensky’s Vulture III only to see the Clan OmniMech laying on the ground burning. As he looked at the remains of the sixty-ton OmniMech he saw a group of eight Leonidas Battle Armour troops which had attacked the Vulture III when his Anzu had fallen. “Thank you, warriors,” he said quietly as the troopers raised their arms in salute towards him, they had likely saved his life.
Robert glanced across the battlefield and saw that several of the Wolf Mechs had fallen but so had many of his own forces. In his thirty-seven years he had heard stories of huge battles against enemies of his home but he’d rarely been involved in battles larger than battalion strength. Today was different he could see DropShips begin to come in for a landing several of them were heavily damaged. Seeing the DropShips, and the condition of his own BattleMech, Robert realized that today was not the day for the liberation of Tamarind instead he’d be lucky to escape with his life.
In orbit above the planet the WarShip Abbey exploded under fire from the remaining two Wolf Lola IV-class Destroyers. One of the defending Clan vessels had been destroyed by massed fighter attacks but as the fighters ran low on fuel and muntions the tide of the battle had turned back towards that of the defenders. From the ground DropShips rose from the ground fighting their way clear of the planet as they retreated enmasse from the battlefield onboard one of the DropShips Duke Robert Brett-Marik stood defeated in battle by the Wolves but still alive and ready to fight another day.
The Battle for Tamarind was over with a stalemate the Wolves continued to hold the world and its critical shipyards as well as the production facilities it had built on the surface. The Free Worlds League forces had proven they could battle the Wolves on the surface of Tamarind but they would need more firepower before they were able to retake the planet. As the DropShips escaped to their waiting WarShips before escaping the system ending the Free Worlds League assault on Wolf territory, until another day. How the Wolves would react to the attack was anyone’s guess but today the battle was over.
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I wonder what transformed Burton into a-hole. His intolerance for his son is very....not cool. Luther seems like he may go rogue or something. Burton's disrespect to his father is even worse.
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Yeah, right along the lines I was thinking too with regards to Burton.
However ... Victor abdicating only to step up as a significant official of the Protectorate isn't really cool either. Could be that Burton interprets it as a betrayal. Doesn't of course excuse his callous stance towards his son and daughter. Wonder what Stirling is thinking of this... "new" Burton?
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Sorry I've not replied to this in a while, superb updates, I'm waiting to see what happens on Festung Tharkad.
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Sorry I've not replied to this in a while, superb updates, I'm waiting to see what happens on Festung Tharkad.
It's alright I've been too busy to write recently did a little bit of a non battletech fiction I've worked on previously otherwise proper work lol. Hopefully soon update here
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Wait, is my Warship the McKenna-Class Subtlety still alive?
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Wait, is my Warship the McKenna-Class Subtlety still alive?
Yeah she is at Galatea Station providing training and defence
This is to all who read I haven't abandoned this not by a long shot I've just been busy. I'm 50% through next update and I'm working towards incorporating more elements into it
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Do you still have the initial write up I did on it?
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Do you still have the initial write up I did on it?
Here you go
https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/factions/unit-profile-subtlety-profitable-college-of-military-arts/ (https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/factions/unit-profile-subtlety-profitable-college-of-military-arts/)
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Here you go
https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/factions/unit-profile-subtlety-profitable-college-of-military-arts/ (https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/factions/unit-profile-subtlety-profitable-college-of-military-arts/)
Thanks.
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FINALLY!!
Baby Support Unit, Ecol City Hospital
Thorin, Star League Protectorate
1st November 3115
Sitting in his wife’s room in the Ecol City Hospital’s Baby Unit Morgan Christifori watched the Lyran News Network broadcast as the Grey Death Legion Mercenary Regiment was given a hero’s welcome on Tharkad by the population. The units BattleMechs, armoured vehicles, battle armour and infantry paraded through the capital after the mercenaries had spent three months behind enemy lines in the Jade Falcon and Hell’s Horses OZs conducting sabotage operations. The reports Morgan had read suggested the Grey Death had lost at least a third of their numbers in the battles but they had been victorious in the eyes of the Lyran people. Beside him in his cot Adrianna Katya Christifori, his first-born child, slept quietly beside her mother Marika today was a good day for him and the Lyran Commonwealth.
Scout mission
Las Tunes, Outworlds Wastes
Periphery
9th November 3115
For the last month the Thermo Police had been deployed to several worlds scouting along the Raven Alliances periphery border searching out worlds that were once part of the Outworlds Alliance for the most part they had found dead worlds long forgotten following the conflicts which had befallen the Inner Sphere following the fall of the First Star League.
Inside his Warhammer IIC8 MechWarrior Karl of the Kanter Bloodhouse liked one thing about his deployment with the Thermo Police he was in his BattleMech otherwise the assignment had been painfully boring. He had hopes of winning a Bloodname and he wasn’t going to do that scouting out worlds on the border, he needed to do something that would see him recognized. Up ahead on his sensors he detected energy signatures. “One-Adam-One, this is One-Adam-Two, I have energy signatures ahead” he transmitted to Captain Alec Oak who commanded the command Star which had been deployed here to Las Tunes to collect a member of the unit who had been here for sometime meeting local settlements.
“Investigate but if you encounter hostiles hold your range until we can all support, Understood?”
“Aff” Karl said rolling his eyes Alec Oak was trying to understand the Clan ways but he would soon learn. Throttling the Warhammer IIC8 forwards Karl moved his BattleMech into range of the settlement which was made up of a series of small buildings many of which looked like they were centuries old and some that were partially standing. Las Tunes was a nice enough world but without the support from outside to provide additional resources and without heavy industry of their own some of the world’s buildings were showing their age. As he closed his BattleMech’s sensors picked up several low range power signals but one signature stood out the unmistakable signature of a BattleMech. Karl reached over to key his communications system to inform Oak but had a second though alone he could take on any BattleMech in combat and win the glory needed to prove he deserved a Bloodname.
Moving in on the signature he spotted the other BattleMech and immediately halted trying to work out what he was seeing ahead of him just inside weapons range stood an unusual looking BattleMech standing inside a metal cage as infantry soldiers all around it fired flamethrowers onto it. Karl’s Warhammer IIC8’s sensors confirmed a Raven Alliance identification signature coming from the BattleMech. “Unidentified Raven Alliance BattleMech this is One-Adam-Two, identify yourself and do you need assistance, Quiaff?” He asked challenging the MechWarrior who stood still in the cage being fire upon.
“This is One-Adam-Two, this is Three-Adam-Two, negative I do not need your assistance.” The MechWarrior responded the callsign used was for the missing Raven Alliance MechWarrior Alisan Nostra, the great-granddaughter of Kotori Nostra. “You can close on my position Raven but keep your weapons down no need to absolutely scare these people, Understood?”
“Aff” Karl responded moving in on Alisan’s position he could see her BattleMech was no larger than twenty-five tons it looked like it carried a spear in one arm, an autocannon in the other arm and a couple of machine guns in the torso. His Mech’s warbook identified it as a CattleMaster IIC with a secondary name listed as the Hunter IIC. “What exactly are you doing?” He asked seeing the people around the pit slow their firing on her Hunter IIC as it stood in a small pool of water.
“This is a challenge I have been given by the locals known as a Trial of Fire if I can survive this trial then the locals will trust me.” She explained cheerfully.
“Your BattleMech’s heat sinks will easily absorb their fire. You know this?” He pointed out due to the advanced technology used on the BattleMech the infantry had little to no chance of damaging her Mech.
“Affirmative” she responded “I’m winning their trust Raven, sometimes you have to take the time for people to trust you. Are the rest of your lance nearby?”
“Affirmative, my starmates are searching for you.”
“Good call them in.” She said for the next thirty minutes Karl watched as the Hunter IIC was burned by the locals occasionally Alisan would move the Mech around a little to make it look like she was looking to escape but remained in the pool of water using it to enhance her heat sink capacity. Around the caged area the rest of Karl’s star arrived further adding to the mystique that the Raven Alliance force held over the locals.
Once the trial was over they treated the visitors to the very best of meals where Karl got to meet Alisan Nostra. She was approximately Karl’s age, short in height with long hair which was tied back and athletically built, she wore little in the way of a uniform and instead was dressed in a fur jacket which she claimed to have made herself while out in the wilderness. She was like no MechWarrior he’d ever met. After the meal the locals then showed them to their “Shrine of the Past” half buried to the north of the settlement they found an ancient Confederate-class DropShip which had taken some of the original inhabitants to the world. While the DropShip was generally in good condition it would never fly again and the fusion reactor had begun to degrade leading to some radiation leakage while it was at a level lower than many battlefields registered after a large battle it was still dangerous.
Using the HPG onboard their own DropShip Headquarters Captain Alec Oak called for a support engineering team to attend and secure the reactor to protect the locals from further harm. Because it was Alisan’s trial that had won the locals trust the Thermo Police remained on the world for a further week while Raven Alliance specialists made the DropShip safe. As a result of this extra help and time spent with the locals told them stories of another recent visit by “Metal Gods” who had caused damage to one of the worlds other settlements killing dozens of the people who lived there. While Karl did not understand why they cared for this world which was outwith their own realm and did not see how this would help him gain a Bloodname the prospect of meeting these “Metal Gods” who had preyed on the innocent interested him greatly.
Solaris Racing Event
Slanotov Industrial Zone
Solaris VII, Independent Clan Space
18th November 3115
“Good morning, ladies and gentlemen, I am Rick de Graff and I am here today to bring you the latest event in the Solaris Racing League at the Slanotov Industrial Zone! Even as Clan Wolf continues its offensive against the Free Worlds League and Clan Lynx have reportedly invaded the Draconis Combine the racing is all that matters here on Solaris!” The announcer said “following our last event at Dunnet Forest the league standings are as follows. Jonnie Mjalby leads the standings on eighteen points, Joe Normandn and Zhao Jian-guo are close behind on sixteen points, Irene Steele follows on eleven points after her crash at Dunnet Forest just in touching distance to the leaders.” He said “due to her DNF in the last round Steele will be going first today flying a new substitute aircraft a Striking Cobra which she aquired following the race at Dunnet Forest, good luck to her.”
Listening to the announcer Irene Steele sat in the pilot’s chair of the Striking Cobra the twenty-ton turbine driven aircraft she’d found it was far different to her jet engined Guardian. The cockpit was compact but comfortable but more primitive than the Guardian still it had all the controls and switches as you’d expect from this type of aircraft. She’d flown the aircraft twice since she’d left the hospital where Jonnie had given her the aircraft first around the course at San Bardo Canyon and then at a practice run here at the burnt out Slanotov Industrial Zone.
While the town of Slanotov as a settlement was inhabited the Industrial Zone had become a victim of the Succession Wars with most of the building’s now little more than ruins. For the most part the area was used by MechWarriors practicing their moves before going into the arenas on Solaris or by mercenary units training before travelling off world. Due to the built-up nature of the area most of the spectator stands were crammed into stands which had been wedged between buildings and would be using tri-vid screens to follow the action.
“Ladies and gentlemen, without further from me I turn the action over to Irene Steele, good luck racer!” De Graff said and Irene didn’t need further encouragement.
Diving her aircraft away from Interstate 3 she slipped the small Striking Cobra down between two buildings building up speed and as her confidence in the aircraft grew. On each wingtip there was an SRM-4 launcher filled with dummy rounds each pod provided her with a guide for how close she could get to the buildings. The fighter turned tighter than her old Guardian did and she was able to fly around the ruined building in a tight circle before she needed to dive under Interstate 3.
The fighter was under Interstate 3 for only a few seconds slipping between the road’s support pylons before immediately rising way from the ground between two more ruined buildings. Another tight diviving turn hit Irene with the g-forces as her Striking Cobra dived down over Canal Pregolya which ran through the course. As she crossed over the water at less than ten metres in height, she dodged the Striking Cobra between two parked barges before pulling up in between more buildings. She breathed deeply as her aircraft levelled out and the g-forces eased before she pushed the twenty-ton aircraft again under another one of Interstate 3’s roadways heading into an area filled with various disused oil storage containers maintaining an altitude of twenty-three metres Irene was happy with her time so far as she moved into the next section.
This section was made up of a maze of pipes, chimneys, towers and oil drums that Irene expertly dodged through before making a hairpin turn which would take her towards the Port Authority and Pregolya Tunnel the speed and height she had kept through the section would win her much needed additional points. The road tunnel was thankfully closed to road traffic today and was wide enough for her to fly through it with the wings of the small craft level as it took her under the Canal of the same name and out the other side into more buildings.
Rising from the tunnel she followed a lazy figure of eight around two of the dark grey buildings and she was away from them heading back towards the Interstate Highway that bisected the course. Before she reached it, she turned tightly to the right between the buildings then right again tipping her craft up onto its wing as she split between buildings as fast as she dared finally, she turned towards the last area of the course the only open area and the only place with live spectators the creatively named central park. A wide arc over the Canal Pregolya past the spectators Irene Steele threw her craft into a couple of barrel rolls to make the crowd below happy before turning over the Canal towards the finish point. She hit maximum throttle and threw her craft over the finish line hoping that her fancy flying and speed had done enough.
Following Steele came the other six racers of the racing league with Koskova Yartseva doing enough in one of the slowest aircraft to win the race in time and in spectator points. As he’d flown with great skill and style to prove you didn’t need the fastest aircraft to win the race. Irene ended up placing second which given she was in a new aircraft was a spectacular result for her, it earned her third place overall and earned her enough credits to pay off Jonnie Mjalby for the plane. Jonnie himself had placed only fourth in Slanotov his bigger aircraft unable to fit between the oil containers or under the smallest of the river bridges had cost him greatly in the race standings.
The fourth place was enough however for Jonnie Mjalby to be crowned the first champion of the Solaris Racing League. With the League proving itself to be a commercial and spectator success. The sport had also brought up several questions due to the variety of aircraft employed and the different ways that points had been scored. While it was unquestioned whether another year of events would follow already organisers and racers were thinking up new ways to keep the spectators interested and the racing fair… well as fair as Solaris ever got.
Raiding party
Green Hills, Magistracy of Canopus
Periphery
21st November 3115
As a defending Arbiter SecurityMech fell to her particle cannon Amanda Cavalcanti felt sorry for the MechWarrior she had defeated in her far older but still superior Griffin she remembered when she was the one in an inferior BattleMech it wasn’t a nice feeling but it was the way of the universe she thought as the smaller Arbiter lay still on the ground its pilot either unconscious or dead had not ejected from the Mech.
This was her third raid with McCoy’s Malcontents and so far the Mercenary/Pirate group had proven true to their word in not targeting civilian forces but instead aiming for military targets. Moving alongside her she saw the five strong squad of Ravager Battle Armoured troopers moving in on the Arbiter activating her communications she raised the lead trooper “Leading Gunnner if the pilot lives capture them alive.” She said
“Understood MechWarrior, we will do as you ask.” Eva Marocchino the leader of the Ravager Squad responded. Behind the Ravagers came the unit’s two UrbanMech MC’s which had accompanied them on this raid. Together the three Mechs and the Ravagers had fallen into a sub-unit of the Malcontents supporting Schuyler McCoy’s command lance in their raids taking on the support assets of ann enemy unit while McCoy’s unit took on the main enemy.
Right now, they were assaulting Green Hills support base while McCoy engaged the main militia force. With the Ravagers and several Prime Movers moving into the area to salvage what they could from the base Amanda Cavalcanti moved into the base proper. The base was made up of a few buildings which were single story accommodation blocks and a single larger hanger structure as she crossed the main assembly yard an open area between the accommodation blocks and hanger only for her BattleMech to be struck by a large autocannon blast that had come from the hanger. Turning she could barely believe what she was seeing a lumbering BattleMech which looked like a sixty-five-ton Thunderbolt but it was streaming thick black smoke from two funnels which were attached to the BattleMech internal combustion engine. Amanda was stunned for a moment, despite the age of her old Griffin it at least still had a fusion engine powering it, internal combustion engines were generally only mounted on the smallest and most primitive of Mechs.
Twisting her Mech’s torso Amanda hit the the Thunderbolt with her Mech’s particle cannon. The man-made lightning blast briefly connected the two BattleMechs before exploding across the Thunderbolt’s torso. The blast threw off the Thunderbolt’s return fire from two Medium Range Missile launchers mounted on the Mech’s opposite shoulder. Moving and firing Amanda hit out at the Thunderbolt again with her Mech’s particle cannon adding her Mech’s two Rocket Launchers to the attack showering the Thunderbolt with thirty rockets. Only about half of the rockets struck home, with the rest tearing up the parade ground, but those that struck were enough to cause damage all over the enemy Mech the pilot staggered and the autocannon shot they had been lining up slammed into the ground in-front of the Mech tearing up the ground but causing no further damage. Amanda used the pilot’s distraction to close on the enemy Mech raising both of her Griffin’s arms she opened fire with everything she had left. Her particle cannon tore through the Thunderbolt’s right torso causing a structural failure which left the autocannon right arm hanging loose inoperative. The Griffin’s machine guns and lasers caused further damage to the torso striking off the autocannon’s ammunition bay causing a huge internal explosion in the BattleMech. The ammunition explosion that close to the Thunderbolt’s internal combustion engine caused a catastrophic explosion which consumed the BattleMech in a fiery explosion which sent parts of the Mech all across the torn-up landscape of the base.
Behind the Thunderbolt came another Mech leaving the hanger on her Griffin’s sensors Amanda saw four of the Ravager suits had come to investigate the fight which had just occurred. “Hold your fire.” She ordered using her Mech’s external speakers and communication system at the same time. “MechWarrior that Mech isn’t built for a battle do not make us do anything. If you surrender you will be treated fairly.” She said looking at the light Fwltur SalvageMech. “Don’t make me kill you, stand down and take that Mech back inside.” She said seeing a group of infantry soldiers moving out of the hanger to support the Fwltur, looking at them she could see they were a collection of techs who had armed themselves to take on the pirate force, she made them retreat by hitting the ground with a burst of machine gun and laser fire killing none of the infantry but making it no question that they would be facing death to come out of the hanger again. “No more chances, all of you stand down!” Amanda snapped not wanting to murder the techs and the unarmed Fwltur but making them understand she would of she needed to.
Around the Fwltur the Ravagers moved into flanking positions just as the fifth Ravager joined them with the Arbiter pilot in tow her hands tied but alive and well. Seeing their comrade still alive and captured broke the Fwltur pilot’s will to fight and the Mech stood down from its fighting stance walking backwards into the hanger. With the Mech surrendered the armed techs surrendered as well by the time the rest of the Malcontents arrived the base was entirely in their hands. Schuyler McCoy took the Fwltur as battlefield salvage and left the captured soldiers and techs in the base they had defeated the planet’s defences, they didn’t need the prisoners, from the planet the Malcontents salvaged several weapons from the defeated milita. Schuyler also designated several pieces of farm equipment from the planet as salvage as well for use on Whittington, true to his word the Malcontents did not target any of the civilian settlements other than to take farming equipment with no serious injuries to the population. For her efforts on Green Hills and in other battles McCoy promised Amanda Cavacanti that he’d instruct Whittington’s techs to upgrade the ancient Griffin she’d made her own.
Clan Snow Raven Hall
Hall of the Clans, City of Andrey
Tukayyid, Independent Clan Territory
30th November 3115
While Clan Nova Cat had four stars worth of WarShips and their own production facilities, they lacked the experience of building Battleships and carriers. This lack of capacity had hurt the Nova Cats in their recent conflict with the Federated Suns which had a fleet stacked with Battleships and carriers. To fix this lack of capacity the Nova Cats contract Clan Snow Raven for assistance. The Ravens had concentrated on building WarShips for the majority of the Clan’s existence often with other branches of the Clan losing out.
In exchange for natural resources and a steady stream of front-line Nova Cat OmniMechs built for the Snow Ravens the Raven leadership agree to build four new WarShips for the Nova Cats. One each of the Battleship classes Nightlord II and Arbitration along with two Conqueror-class Battle-cruisers which would be used to reinforce the Nova Cats Cruiser heavy navy.
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Nice update brother. Love reading your work.
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Nova Cats getting battleships, looks like party time in the FS. >:D :thumbsup:
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Nice to see new entry to your saga, Dragoncat!
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Nice to see the Striking Cobra showing off... :thumbsup:
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Meh...
Needs more Word action, but so far a good read.
TT
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Meh...
Needs more Word action, but so far a good read.
TT
Oh you mean Attack, Assault, Charge, pulverize? Those are action words.
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Oh you mean Attack, Assault, Charge, pulverize? Those are action words.
Verb. That’s what’s happening. ;)
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Oh you mean Attack, Assault, Charge, pulverize? Those are action words.
I'm pretty sure there's a Pulverizer somewhere in this... :thumbsup:
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Verb. That’s what’s happening. ;)
I do my thing in action.
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One small screw up on my part... normally at the end of every year I post all active units, warships and a map saying what's going on in the Inner Sphere. (I still will)
But because I've jumped into 3116 and I'm half way through the next month's update the active units and the like will come after the January 3116 update. I normally go through the production database before I jump forwards but I've been enjoying writing and I forgot... it won't be that out of date... just a few worlds changing hands in January... like a dozen or so changing hands... nothing major honest O:-) :thumbsup:
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Tsk tsk...
:whip:
TT
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Ending 3115 - as I stated before I've already ran into 3116 so I'll post the update for January 3116 and then post the updated map and active units/warships documents. This update is very Clan centric... Hope you enjoy.
Dome 43, Substructure 9
Hellgate, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Homeworlds
17th December 3115
Many of the Clan Homeworlds were harsh places to live and they had been colonized purely because the Star League Army in Exile had needed space for its population and needed the resources available in the systems. Hellgate was one of those worlds which had a population only because the Clans could exploit the germanium deposits which were located throughout the system. During the Clans dominance of the Homeworlds Clan Snow Raven had commanded all authority on the world for centuries with only a couple of other Clans gaining a small foothold in the system. Following the evacuation of the Ravens from the Homeworlds the Society had quickly gained dominance over the system and its population which were huddled in domes abandoned by the Ravens quickly turned their loyalties to the Society.
Fortunately for the remaining Clans some of the population still remained loyal to the structures which had led the world and hated what the Society represented and that opened up opportunities for the Blood Spirits and Goliath Scorpions. The Blood Spirits did most of the heavy lifting in the resistance battle against Society but it was time for the Goliath Scorpions to do their duty. Star Colonel Ezell Djerassi was older than most warriors in the Clan and he had volunteered for this mission, it was a suicide mission, he wanted to die as a warrior all of the others in his command had agreed to the price as well. Should fail they would be dead the Society wouldn’t be looking to taking prisoners and even if they succeed in their mission there was no DropShip waiting to evacuate them, they would be stranded in this dome with only the tainted atmosphere outside. Unfortunately, in an effort to gain retribution against the Clans the Society would likely vent the dome to ensure they all died all of his twenty-five warriors accepted that should they be victorious then they would pick another target and carry on until the last of them were dead. There were almost as many volunteers who had picked up a rifle to support them, those that had already betrayed the Society to help them get onto this world, he had cautioned them all that they should be ready to die when the time came.
“All units be ready” he communicated using his star’s dedicated channel to talk to the entire unit. It was a risk for them to speak but he had to take a chance. The strike force was deployed in several buildings near a main access route to the centre of town. The multi-story office buildings and accommodation had for the most part been abandoned when the Snow Ravens left the homeworlds but there were some people still there who would be unfortunate collateral damage. It wasn’t Ezell’s job to safeguard the civilians in the area only to kill members of the society.
The Society convoy moved onto the end of the street a single Septicemia OmniMech led several ground vehicles onto the road. Walking alongside one of the vehicles stood a Cephalus OmniMech while a Sprite and two Hobgoblin ultra-class ProtoMechs rounded out the escort.
“Targets in sight, the civilian vehicles are our primary” Ezell said flexing his right hand inside his Surat Battle Armour suit Ezell waited around him hidden in the buildings and on the ground in the area his people laid in wait. Trying to gain more information he zoomed in on the targets and saw one piece of detail which was important for this plan to work. “The Cephalus is in its primary configuration, no missiles on the vehicles!” He warned seeing no weapons on the Mech the pilot was there simply to defend the vehicles. “Target the Septicemia with all our missiles.” He commanded “everyone else converges on the vehicles before the ProtoMechs can react!”
The change in orders was coming late but each of his warriors had served for more than a dozen years and they all knew how to adapt; it was how they had survived this long. As the Septicemia stepped into the kill zone the Clansmen waited for his command. “IN THE NAME OF KERENSKY!” Ezell screamed at the top of his lungs smashing his Surat out of the building he’d been hidden in. The Surat had been built in the Inner Sphere originally, it had been purchased or captured and taken back to the homeworlds as Isorla. The Goliath Scorpions had armed it with a Heavy Small Laser and Ezell was a deadly shot with it, as soon as he was clear from the building, he triggered the weapon targeting one of the ground cars near the Cephalus burning a hole through the front driver door of the vehicle disabling it at least temporarily. Off to his right the Septicemia pilot reacted to the attack twisting their Mech’s torso to the left and eight machine guns opened up together in fire spraying the building with streams of led. Many of the volunteers who had stepped up to support the Scorpions were cut down in a hail of fire. Two of the Septicemia’s Plasma Cannons targeted the building attempting to burn it down around the remaining Scorpions who were inside but as it fired the remaining missile armed Scorpions targeted the medium OmniMech with half a dozen inferno tipped short range missiles firing from different directions and elevations the pilot had no chance of avoiding them all and at least four of the missiles struck home. The anti-armour warheads on each missile was armed with napalm-like inferno jelly which exploded moments before hitting their targets covering the OmniMech in fire.
“While that murder monster is distracted target the vehicles!” Ezell ordered as a pair of troopers ran past him each was armoured in in Resgate Power Armour which was normally used by emergency services but had been dragooned into service to assist the Clans. Both were armed with heavy pulse rifles and they blazed away with their weapons at the vehicles before being struck down by a hair of long-range missiles from the Sprite ProtoMech. “We do not have long” he said jumping his suit up onto the top of a waiting vehicle he punched out with the battle claw encased left arm punching a hole in the top of the vehicle before bathing the inside of the vehicle with heavy laser and small arms fire. All around them troopers were dying the still on fire Septicemia continued to fire its machine guns wildly while the Cephalus lacking weapons or arms attempted to stand on the infantry troopers.
Another shock wave of explosions struck the Septicemia as another salvo of inferno missiles were fired down on the stricken OmniMech causing even more fire and heat build up onboard the OmniMech. Inside the fifty-five-ton OmniMech its machine gun and plasma cannon rounds cooked off under the huge heat build-up and exploded. The OmniMechs specially built chassis attempted to vent the explosion away from the OmniMech’s critical systems but there was simply too much damage and fire caused by the ten inferno missiles which had struck it. The Septicemia pilot attempted to keep their OmniMech standing but there was little they could do Ezell couldn’t imagine the heat onboard the Mech as it staggered across the street-turned-battlefield into the same building Ezell had hidden in and exploded as its fusion engine let go.
A fusion engine expoding was not like a nuclear bomb, despite what many civilians thought, instead it was more like a serious overload. It was easily strong enough to damage armour plate on units too close to the explosion or kill anyone unlucky enough to be in the blast radius. It was also strong enough to damage a building. As the explosion rippled through the building above shattering the glass façade of that building and every other nearby showing the battlefield in glass and parts of the building as they rained down on top of them.
“Anyone still standing continue to target the vehicles!” Ezell shouted as class showered his suit the glass was no danger to him but deadly to any of the remaining infantry. “Anyone with missiles target the ProtoMechs hold them back!” He said as another volley of missiles flew in from the three ProtoMechs. “They should have closed on us!” Ezell commented although the Sprite was designed to support the two lighter Hobgoblins could have done serious damage in closer Ezell guessed their attacks on the Septicemia had killed their commander which would explain the hesitation.
Taking advantage of their lack of action and the Cephalus inability to deal ranged damage he jumped his Surat from vehicle to vehicle using his suit’s jump jets landing on another vehicle he repeated his tactic punching the roof then reaching in with his weapon arm. He felt a shotgun blasting back against his Surat but there was no threat of damage from it and Ezell continued to fire his weapons into the vehicle.
“Osteon!” Someone shouted Ezell glanced up, at his HUD and saw the OmniMech which had arrived to support the three ProtoMechs which was the last thing he did. The Osteon was an assault class OmniMech and it bathed the battlefield in heavy pulse laser fire. One of the bursts slammed into Ezell’s Surat overwhelming the armour which had protected him until now. The energy pulse blast entered his suit and burned through his body in half a dozen places at once killing him instantly.
With the Osteon’s arrival the battle was over the eighty-five-ton machine marched into the middle of the street gunning down Goliath Scorpion soldiers and civilians alike in a ferocious display of firepower. Dozens of on lookers were caught in the rampage of destruction laid down by the Osteon as it secured the area along with the three ProtoMechs which now with leadership returned were also making up for their lackluster performance. The battle was over but the attack had achieved its objectives and a leading bio-chemist working for the Society was dead. In the coming days a purge of the habitation dome began with dozens lined up and shot by Society enforcers, they stopped short of venting the dome completely but the message had been sent.
Council of the Clans
Hall of the Clans, City of Andrey
Tukayyid, Clan Territory Inner Sphere
28th December 3115
Another Council of the Clan leadership had begun on Tukayyid in the Hall of the Clans with at least one Khan from each of the ten member Clans present arranged in a circle with the Loremaster of the Clans included in their own place. The room was large enough that should the Council ever expand then the circle could grow without a second circle needing to form. On the furthest wall of the room the flags of twenty Clans hung, nineteen original Clans and one newly formed one Clan Lynx. The twentieth original Clan, the not-named Clan’s flag was missing from the room entirely. Other than the tables and the flags the only other thing in the room was a holotank in the middle of the tables as it was presently not in use it just looked like any of the other tables.
The more the Clans met on Tukayyid the more it felt like a home for the Council, at least until the Clans returned to Terra. Loremaster of the Clans Sandra Ward stood at her table dressed in the ceremonial leathers of her parent Wolf Clan. “I am Sandra Ward, Loremaster of the Clans, I call today's council into session. Clan Sea Fox has the floor.” She said from Sea Fox stand Khan Evangeline Clarke stood, she too wore the ceremonial uniform of the Sea Fox Clan which was a dark navy jumpsuit with highlights across the torso and arm of Sea Fox fur.
“I am Khan Evangeline Clarke the leader of Clan Sea Fox.” She began formally “and today I bring something which effects us all.” She said glancing around the room “when the Clans were formed there were twenty of us, which the Founder created from the Great Father’s Star League army. Now there are ten of us, ten Clans remain half of our original number. Those Clans that have fallen were not strong enough to remain part of our number, but the Founder left the door open for new Clans to join the fold which we have embraced by welcoming Clan Lynx and allowing the reformed Clan Fire Mandrill to rejoin this council.” She said glancing around the room, most members of the council scoffed at those Clans that had fallen others within the council still looked down on the Lynx and Fire Mandills for their junior status in the council. “Today, I bring information to this Council of a rise of another Clan.” She said wondering how many others had heard of what she was about to mention. “Clan Smoke Jaguar has been reborn inside the Free Worlds League.”
“Clan Smoke Jaguar…” Jana Pryde began pausing for a moment before speaking “Clan Smoke Jaguar died at the hands of the Inner Sphere, they are not worthy of a place in this Council.”
“Clan Smoke Jaguar survived when everyone else wrote them off.” Clarke said “elements of their Clan have settled in the Free Worlds League and their Clan has begun to flourish. Clan Sea Fox have been in direct contact with them and traded with them. We were treated as Clansmen should be and they fought several trials against my warriors all of them fought as we would expect with honour.”
“You said they are within the Free Worlds League? The hold no territory of their own?” Khan Canin Rosse of the Nova Cats asked, he was the oldest Khan present but his voice was strong and he was ready to meet any challengers. The Nova Cats and Smoke Jaguars had a troubled past but Rosse was known as a fair individual.
“Aff, they presently command the District of Lesnovo within the Free Worlds League. Khan Petra Furey, a freeborn of a member of the Furey Bloodhouse, has risen to command the area from within the structures that governs the Free Worlds League.” Clarke explained
“So, they are subservient to barbarians.” Jana Pryde pointed out.
“I will not answer for the Smoke Jagaurs, nor their actions since their fall.” She answered refusing to speak for the Clan. “I only wish to make this council aware that their forces exist. If we have questions, they should be asked to the Smoke Jaguar Clan, Quiaff?” She asked calling on any of them to challenge her. Clarke noted that none of the members of the council challenged her on her use of the term Clan to describe these descendants of the Smoke Jaguars.
“I believe that we should send a fact-finding mission.” The Snow Raven Khan Vir Sukhanov suggested. “Already we have accepted that the Ghost Bear, Sea Fox, Fire Mandrill and Snow Raven Clans are part of this Council and yet have… different relationships with the Inner Sphere than others. It would appear that the Smoke Jaguars have found their own way to survival and are flourishing as the Founder desired for each of his Clans.”
“And what will be learned that a group of freebirths now believe that they are a Clan, so we will make them a Clan? I say Neg, they may be Clan in their own minds but they did not come from us.” Jana Pryde said angrily around the table the Hell’s Horses leaders and Wolf leaders nodded in agreement, all three still believed that the Inner Sphere should be ruled by the Clans not worked with. The Nova Cat, Lynx and Coyote leaders remained passive on the subject.
“Clan Sea Fox traded iron-womb technology to the Jaguars.” Clarke said lighting the fire that could not be extinguished. Already my Watch have confirmed the Jaguars are creating new genetic legacies for their future warriors.”
“Technology and genes of free----births… mean nothing.” Khan Sepp Heller of Clan Coyote said simply entering the debate. The mechanical screech of his artificial voice box breaking through the growing argument.
“We all originally came from the genes of freebirths.” Khan Angela Bekker of the Ghost Bears said she was a short woman with her hair slowly turning grey as she aged. “I support Khan Sukhanov’s suggestion Loremaster of the Clans the Ebon Guard is neutral within our numbers, I propose we send a Cluster to investigate.”
“The warriors of the Ebon Guard are capable of such a task.” Ward confirmed “but this Council not the Ebon Guard speak for us. I will only command the Ebon Guard to travel to meet these Smoke Jaguars on the order of this Council.”
“I vote we send them.” Clarke said standing at her desk to support the idea. “And I will offer to provide a trade JumpShip circuit through the Inner Sphere to bring the Ebon Guard to their destination.”
“As do I” Vir Sukhanov agreed also standing, with two votes the issue now would be vote on by all of the present Khans.”
“I vote no. If and I stress the word IF they are ever to join us it should be by their own choice and their own feats. Not because we invite them.” Khan Jana Pryde stated angrily.
“I agree with the Falcons, no.” Khan Teresia Cooper of the Hell’s Horses stated without expanding further the Elemental warrior refused to stand remaining seated at her desk.
“I vote yes, my Clan has flourished in the Rim Collection and yearly my people are becoming the dominant force on the Lyran Periphery.” Khan Jordan Truscott the leader of the Fire Mandrills said. “It would appear the Smoke Jaguars are doing the same, we should acknowledge their survival…”
“My Clan barely acknowledges your existence.” Khan Cade Kell of Clan Wolf said dismissing Truscott’s comments. The Fire Mandrills had been accepted into this council simply because they were the last members of Clan Fire Mandrill and they had the last elements of the Serpent Clans as well, after the destruction wrought on the Clans by the Serpents attack seeing the destruction of yet more Clansmen by refusing them council did not seem right.
Kell himself had once been on the outside of this council in a Clan which was formed outside the Founders plans. He had been born as a Trueborn to Clan Wolf (in-Exile) and was the first of Phelan Kell’s descendants to claim the Bloodname, he understood some of what the Smoke Jaguars may be feeling but also he saw the benefits of having them back in the fold. “I vote yes” he said glancing at Jana Pryde with a smirk he knew his Clan was in the premier spot to strike at Terra when the time came having a Smoke Jaguar Clan at his back taking over the Free Worlds League could potentially make that easier for the Wolves.
“I also vote yes” Khan Canin Rosse said standing surprising many who had thought the Nova Cats would stand to keep their once rivals away from the council. “None of us are what we were in the past.”
“I also vote… yes” Sepp Heller said joining the yes votes. With six votes to three the votes were cast for an expedition to be sent to the Smoke Jaguars.”
“I have six Clusters of warriors based on Tukayyid, they will trial and a Cluster will be sent to meet with the Smoke Jaguars as is the will of this council.” Sandra Ward announced once the vote had been tallied. “Are there any other votes to be called today?” Until now Jordan Truscott of the Fire Mandrills had been tempted to mention the Stone Spirits in the periphery and how they desired to return to the fold as well, but today was not the day for that call and instead he kept his own council.
In the coming two weeks further meetings would be held between the Clan leaders and Trials would be fought between the various Clans present. In an act of vengeance against the Jade Falcons both Clan Lynx and Fire Mandrill launched harvest Trials against the Jade Falcons with the Lynx Clan absorbing an entire cluster of warriors from the Jade Falcons. Trade deals and other agreements were made between the Clans ensuring they all knew where the others stood. While the current Council of the Clans was not a war council it did mean that all of the Clans remained on the same sheet of paper understanding where each stood.
New Years Eve Trials of Position
Clan Wolf Territory, City of Skupo
Tukayyid, Clan Territory Inner Sphere
31st December 3115
In the heart of the City of Skapo Clan Wolf warriors gathered for a Trial of Position. The cities original inhabitants had been evacuated before the Battle of Tukayyid in 3052 and since then had barely returned, most not wishing to live on the front-lines facing the Clans. When the system had been seized by the Rasalhague Dominion some ex-patriots from the old Free Rasalhague Republic had moved onto the worlds and taken up residency in what remained of the north quarter of Skupo. When the world had been made an Independent Territory of the Clans more civilian castes from various different Clans had settled in the city. In the centre of the city where the old City Hall had once stood, before Clan Wolf razed it to the ground following the loss of the Battle of Tukayyid, the building’s foundations were all that remained and these now played host to an unaugmented Trial of Position held by Clan Wolf. During the Battle of Tukayyid the city had been one of the Wolves two targets and it had been claimed by the Clan so any Trials held here were special to the Wolves and would be remembered.
In a brutal hand-to-hand battle between two Cluster commanders Alaric Ward, the commander of the Ninth Wolf Guard Cluster stood bloodied and bruised but victorious over the body of Star Colonel Ivan Ward of the 328th Assault Cluster. In the battle the older Ivan Ward had refused to yield preferring to die in battle against another member of his Bloodhouse than remain as a Star Colonel leading to Alaric being forced to kill him. Now in Galaxy Commander Alaric Ward would lead all of the Wolves Snarling Wolves Galaxy against the Star League Protectorate in the next round of battles which would begin soon.
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3116
McKenna Palace
City of McKenna, McKenna
District of McKenna, Free Worlds League
3rd January 3116
Sat on the throne of McKenna in the room once occupied by her father Duchess Saadia Cameron-Jones was dressed in a Marik purple gown which was lined around the edges with a thick black strip of mourning. Her make up was likewise muted and with no colour visible against her dark skin while her blonde hair was tied back away from her face as she turned to face the waiting Tri-vid camera. Beside her to one side stood her daughters twenty-two-year-old Captain Anita Cameron-Jones and sixteen-year-old Rene Cameron-Jones missing was her twenty-year-old son Caden Cameron-Jones who was presently with his regiment the First Cameron-Jones House Guard on Regulus. She had asked him to travel to McKenna but he had refused and said his place was with his regiment she would miss her son but today needed to happen for her own sanity as well as the safety of her daughters.
“People of the Free Worlds League I am Duchess Saadia Cheynov, the Duchess of McKenna” she announced she’d kept this change a secret from everyone including her closest advisors and children for maximum impact. “My father was Felipe Cheynov the true Duke of McKenna.” She said pausing to allow that to sink in for a moment before speaking again. She knew her worlds would be carried across McKenna live and it would reach the other worlds of the Free Worlds League over the next few days. It would be weeks before her words crossed the Inner Sphere but soon everyone would know of this change. “Today for the good of my people and for my children I am announcing my divorce from Duke Lester Cameron-Jones and the secession of the McKenna system from the District of Regulus effective immediately. Lester Cameron-Jones is an evil man who murdered my father when his forces invaded the world of McKenna, he was not a casualty of war as my husband reported to the people. He was murdered and placed in rigged-BattleMech which exploded under him.” She said pausing again she knew the editors would be playing the video clip of two men dragging her father’s already dead body into his BattleMaster before leaving him onboard the powering up assault Mech. Moments later two Wasp BattleMechs burst into the courtyard and sprayed the BattleMaster with machine gun fire but instead of returning fire the BattleMaster exploded from within as charges placed throughout the Mech exploded in a what was supposed to look like a freak ammunition explosion.
“I hav kept my silence for the sake of my children and for the people of McKenna who Lester threatened with harsh treatment should I not cooperate. Only now with my husband distracted have I been able to act.” She said as the camera returned to her and her children “today I announce the formation of the District of McKenna which will include the worlds of McKenna, Sorunda, Ling, Second Chance, Gomelsa and New Delos.” She said naming them New Delos would be a surprise it was officially a world of the District of Oriente but it had been swayed by her words to join the newly formed District. “In an effort to protect them from the inevitable fallout from my actions I have assisted the systems of Bernardo, Holt Park Place and Ibstock in joining the Star League Protectorate, these worlds are loyal to a peaceful Free Worlds League and wish to be part of what I expect will be my ex-husband’s attempt at taking our worlds back by force.” She said the loss of four systems to the Star League would win her no fans in the Free Worlds League but it would protect them from Lester’s actions in the future, it wasn’t a perfect choice but she thought in time she could perhaps persuade them to return to the fold. “If Regulan forces come to the District of Regulus understand we will protect ourselves as of today I have signed a letter of intent to reactivate the First, Second and Third Atrean Dragoons Regiments bringing them back into the Army of the Free Worlds League ready to protect her borders from enemies foreign and domestic.” She said the Third Atrean Dragoons had been inactive since the First Succession War while the First and Second regiments had been around more recently but were currently inactive on FWL District Rosters.
Within days of the announcement Captain-General Robert Brett-Marik of Gibraltar, the current overall leader of the FWL parliament announces his support for McKenna and announces that the Eleventh Tamarind Militia, a brigade-sized combined arms formation, would be placed on loan to the District of McKenna as a peace keeping force to assist with the protection of the new District until its ow military were ready to protect all of its worlds. In an effort to save face from Brett-Marik’s selfless actions and to spite the District of Regulus the Free Worlds League deploy all three recently formed Marik Protectors Regiments to the District of McKenna to support the peacekeeping effort, their first deployment off of Marik as a Free Worlds League unit. For his part Duke Lester Cameron-Jones denies his wife’s accusations claiming the actions that resulted in her father’s death were made by officers who were no longer part of his chain of command. It is believed that he does not order immediate military action due to the presence of the League peacekeeping forces.
Border conflict
Swartz, Albiero Prefecture
Military District of Pesht, Draconis Combine
8th January 3116
In a seemingly combined assault, the Rasalhague Dominions and Clan Lynx launch assaults against the Albiero Prefecture of the Draconis Combine. In a blitzkrieg assault the Rasalhague Dominion’s Rasalhague Galaxy awakens from its slumber and assaults the systems of Albiero, Sainsville and Schwartz. Only in the Albiero system do they encounter heavy resistance from the Thirteenth Pesht Regulars and the WarShip DCS Taipan, a Inazuma II-class Corvette, the Bears answer the DCMS defence with the WarShip Rudigen, a Leviathan 2-class Battleship, which blows through the Corvette and its supporting defences barely even noticing the ship was there. On the ground the elite First Rasalhague Bears Cluster outclass and out shoot the Pesht Regulars unit until they are forced to surrender.
At the same time in complete coordination with the Rasalhague Dominion Clan Lynx strike at the backs of the Draconis Combine forces forcing their way onto the worlds of Virentofta, Staplefeld and Echo. On both Echo and Staplefeld the Lynx forces encounter elements of the Seventeenth Pesht Regulars. The Seventeenth was oversized for a Regulars unit and should really have been two separate units with each subdivision of the unit comprised of two each of BattleMech Battalions, Armour Battalions, Infantry Battalions and an aerospace wing each. The unit had been raised in strength to meet Clan Lynx head on and stem its invasion into the Draconis Combine keeping the Clan to the periphery.
Meeting both formations of the Seventeenth Clan Lynx offer the unit a simple Trial of Possession over the two targeted worlds. The samurai of both halves of the Seventeenth jump at the opportunity to meet the Clansmen in honourable combat and agree to fight within the constraints of Zellbrigen. As is Clan tradition the Lynx commanders agree to transmit their pilot and BattleMech data to the Draconis Combine defenders so they could prepare for an open battle the next day.
As dawn breaks the two sides of the battlefield line up the Draconis Combine gain their first look at the Clan Lynx’s newest weapon of war the Bobcat OmniMech. A forty-ton OmniMech capable of almost one hundred-and-twenty kilometres per hour and covered in Ferro Lamellor armour. Capable of carrying fourteen-and-a-half tons of weapons and equipment the Lynx commanders include five different variants of the capable medium OmniMech to confuse DCMS lines and break down the defenders. The Bobcat’s appearance is a complete surprise to the Draconis Combine Intelligence Services who did not believe that the Lynx possessed the capability of building such and advanced OmniMech. This leads many to believe the OmniMech had originally been designed and built for another Clan and either won or traded for by the Lynx. The OmniMech’s pointed and nearly hooked “nose” torso suggests that originally the Bobcat went by a different name and in the service of Clan Snow Raven.
In two short trials both Echo and Staplefeld fall to Clan Lynx and with them in effect the Draconis Combine loses all control over that area of its periphery border with Clan vessel able to traverse any system in the region unmolested. Star League Defence Forces arrive in the Pesht District to support the defences but they are too late to stop the recent gains by Clan Lynx and the Rasalhague Dominion. For the Lynx Clan it is a successful debut of their new OmniMech and another step towards legitimacy working with the Ghost Bears of the Rasalhague Dominion.
CIC SLS Gryphon (Otey Block II-class Battleship)
Fenwick Shipyards, Fenwick
Star League Protectorate
17th January 3116
“Ex-Oh, have all ties cut and take us out of the shipyard one half gravity acceleration” Commodore Charles Roven the commander of the SLDF’s newest WarShip the SLS Gryphon said from his command chair in the middle of the wide expansive bridge. All of the CIC crewmen were strapped into their chairs while the ship was not under any acceleration saving them from the need of dealing with the challenges of micro-gravity. Charles Roven was Terran born and had served on several WarShips before being assigned to the newly built Battleship.
“Casting off ties, bringing us out of spacedock, sir” Captain Brian Smith, the WarShip’s executive officer, responded like Roven he was Terran born and had served on several WarShips before joining the Gryphon. He’d commanded a DropShip under Roven once before and had been picked for the position specifically by the Commodore the two fit each other like a glove.
As their commands were passed out the Otey-class Battleship slipped clear of the shipyard and slowly into open space. Once the one million and forty thousand tonne ship was at a distance of one hundred thousand kilometres the engines brought the ship up to one gravity of acceleration. “Sir, ship has answered the call to one gravity of acceleration.” Brian Smith reported from his chair on the right side of the CIC. With this announcement Roven released the catches on his chair and stood up experiencing the artificial gravity created by the ship being under at fifty-two years of age Charles Roven always felt better when his ship was under acceleration. Like the other members of the CIC crew, he wore the green Star League Defence Force duty uniform.
“Very good, Major” he said smiling as Brian Smith joined him standing on the bridge both walked several steps ahead of the captain’s chair and stood beside the expansive holo-tank which dominated the long CIC. Around them the crewmen were releasing their chair straps and enjoying a little more freedom in the gravity.
“Time to put the Gryphon through her paces, have a course set for the Pathfinder Group.” He ordered quickly and efficiently Smith passed out the orders and they felt the ship adjust course.
“Intercept course set for Pathfinder, expected rendezvous in three hours.” Smith said checking some of the data presented on the holotank. Roven could read himself but it was good protocol for Smith to call out any changes in the vessel’s status.
“Our DropShips will join us at the rendezvous point. I want to practice with our new toys before we get there. Have each fighter wing take turns attempting to break through the other and attack us.”
“Understood Captain, it will be a good test of the new system.” Smith responded unlike the other Otey-class Battleships in the service with the SLDF the Gryphon had been upgraded with new technology. While the vessel had the same cosmetic profile of the standard Otey-class which hid the vessel’s heritage, which was based on the Stefan Amaris-class Battleship, the cosmetic changes the Otey Block II had were only the start of it. Inside the ship the heat sink capacity had been increased by another half, its fuel storage had been increased significantly, halfway along the hull two full decks had been added to the ship which increased its length by a dozen metres taking the vessel to sixteen hundred-and-twenty-five metres in length packed into these decks were additional computers and servers supporting the ship’s operations. The ship’s armour profile and coverage remained unchanged but half of the conventional pulse lasers had been replaced with laser based anti-missile systems providing superior coverage all around the ship. While four screen launchers had also been added to the vessels defensive armament further enhancing the vessels defensive capabilities. The new Otey II-class was still able to transport four DropShips and two wings of aerospace fighters but its small craft had been increased to eight craft from the previous six. Four of these craft were general use craft which could be used in boarding actions, search and rescue or as support craft. The remaining four were dedicated to a new class of craft which were currently unique to the Otey II-class and would give the ship additional capabilities.
“Yes, it will” Roven confirmed “Major, I want to make sure this system works before we get too far from spacedock. Deploy Ancile craft.”
“Affirmative, sir.” Smith replied the deployment of these ships were a prototype for all SLDF WarShips. From half the way along the Gryphon’s hull four small craft deployed and quickly took up positions around the ship. “Ancile deployment complete, all craft maintaining formation with Gryphon no change to ETA with Pathfinder Group.” Smith reported the Ancile Point Defence Craft was a drone controlled “flying ball” which was designed to intercept incoming missiles targeted on the WarShip and engage those missiles with their massed anti-missile arrays the one-hundred-ton craft had no offensive armament at all. They would enhance the Gryphon’s already impressive defensive armament while the WarShip was deployed in hostile conditions.
The Star League Navy wished to see how the Gryphon and her sister ships operated with the Ancile deployment before deploying a minimum of two of the small craft to every WarShip in the fleet. Built on the world of Bryant the future of hundreds of jobs hung on the success of the deployment of the new craft. Eventually the Ancile would also be sold to the member states of the Star League further improving the sales and giving shipyards work for years in refurbishments.
Rosice News Network
Dei Gratia, Rosice
Halfway Province, Lyran Commonwealth
22nd January 3116
Live from the capitol city of Dei Gratia the Rosice News Network screens lit up as the broadcasters spoke to the people of the world. “Ladies and Gentlemen, I am Venla Nieminen, welcome to Rosice New Network’s Breaking Event” the middle-aged broadcaster said. She had lightly coloured skin, blonde hair with blue eyes and delicate features, the stereotypical Lyran look. She wore a dark blue “Steiner” business skirt and jacket with a white shirt which was open at the collar. “Tonight, we bring you a news story which concerns us all. According to reports which have begun to emerge a new virus has been discovered here on Rosice. Sheridan?” She said glancing over at her co-anchor.
“Indeed” Sheridan Jansen her male co-anchor said. He was more tanned than she was and he looked about ten years her senior with his dark hair beginning to go grey at the temples. He wore a charcoal suit with a white shirt and blue tie. “After first appearing in November last year the virus has reportedly spread across Rosice and displays with a discolouration of the skin, itchy rash and bleeding. Should any of our viewers be experiencing any of these symptoms they should contact the emergency number displayed at the bottom of the screen.” He said pausing
“Rosice Medical are on the case working to protect us all from this new virus. Health officials from Halfway have joined their colleagues here on Rosice and are ready to provide anyone sick of this virus with the best of care.” Venla Nieminen finished off. “At present officials from Rosice Medical do not know where this virus originated from but they have not ruled out that it has come from the weapons facility destroyed in a terrorist action by Democracy Now in September of last year.” She said “thus far Lyran Military Command have refused to comment on what was being researched at the plant and only that they continue mop-up operations there and care for those who had been wounded.”
“Separately Democracy Now have announced that their attack on a weapons facility on Rosice included no biological elements and that anything that may have caused the new virus came entirely from the facility themselves.” Sheridan Jansen said taking over “Democracy Now have said that their actions were against the oppressive Steiner State and not against the people of Rosice or the Lyran Commonwealth.”
Behind the news broadcast Lyran Health officials race to control the Rosice Virus spread. The Virus itself seems to target specific genetic markers within the population and those infected appear to suffer shortly from the virus before bleeding out and dying rapidly. By the time of the news broadcast over one thousand have died on Rosice.
Inner Sphere offensive
Clan Occupation Zones
28th January 3116
In a combined offensive the Lyran Commonwealth, Star League Defence Force and several mercenary commands including two regiments of the Wolf’s Dragoons launch assaults against the Rasalhague Dominion, Hell’s Horses, Coyotes, Jade Falcons and Wolves. By agreement from the Lyran leadership and with the Star League Defence Force all of the attacks are fought in accordance with Clan dueling laws known as Zellbrigen. In each case except one these battles are fought exactly as planned leading to minimal casualties on both sides.
In all the Inner Sphere forces successfully liberate Westerstede and Whittington from the Jade Falcons but fail to win the system of Halmyre Deans. The Isle of Skyes forces and Wolf’s Dragoons Alpha Regiment liberate Edasich from the Hell’s Horses but fail to win on Eaton. During the battle on Edasich the Isle of Skye’s Third Hesperus Guards are debuted against the Clan defenders. While Korbin’s Kommandos fail to liberate Yedi Prior in their Trial of Possession against Clan Coyote.
While the Isle of Skye’s Fourth and Fifth Hesperus Guards are seen in action against Clan Wolf along with several mercenary units no worlds change hands as the Wolves send them home back into the Isle of Skye missing several of their now used Defiance of Hesperus II products.
The only battle to fail to adhere to the rules of Zellbrigen was the battle for Wing between Star League Defence Force troops and troops of the Ninth Wolf Guard Cluster. Alaric Ward’s cluster minus their commander who had been on Tukayyid recently refuses to agree to a batchall with the SLDF troops and fight back against the First Knights Regiment of the Star League Defence Force. Unable to match the ferocity of the attacking Wolves the Knights are sent back to Denebola to rethink their strategy.
Author note: the Bobcat in canon is known as the Carrion Crow however with the Craven OmniMech already developed by the Ravens in this AU I moved the Carrion Crow's origin.
The Ancile was developed by Liam's Ghost and can be seen here: https://bg.battletech.com/forums/aerospace/ancile-class-point-defense-craft-pretend-it-was-there-the-whole-time/msg1560535/#msg1560535 (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/aerospace/ancile-class-point-defense-craft-pretend-it-was-there-the-whole-time/msg1560535/#msg1560535)
I'll be posting the active units, WarShips and map in the next few days. I hope you enjoy and as always and questions are welcome.
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as always superb stuff, the insurgency in the Homeworlds section was harrowing and brilliantly written!
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Please see attached the much delayed Active WarShips and Units documents for January 3116.
And the map for the same period of time has been posted on OBT at the link below as it's too big for the forum here.
https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/dragon-cat-collection/maps/30/#lastPost (https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/dragon-cat-collection/maps/30/#lastPost)
If anyone wants the map and isn't on OBT feel free to private message me and I'll email it to you (same with the units if you want.)
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Arise from your slumber timeline, ARISE! End your long sleep...
Erm, not sure where that came from maybe because Halloween just passed and this timeline like Frankenstein's monster is Alive once more.
Absolute Truth, (Nightlord-class Battleship)
New Kent, Clan Homeworlds
5th February 3116
High above the world of New Kent three WarShips led by the Absolute Truth continuously bombarded the planet below obliterating two clusters of the Goliath Scorpion Clan and a single cluster of the Blood Spirits. For three weeks the two Clans had defended their holdings on the world from waves of Society enemies but finally the Society had resorted to orbital bombardment.
Due to the lack of coordination with ground forces the WarShips were bombarding everything below them in an effort to finish Clan resistance on the world. This escalation of the fighting reduces the size of both Clans and reduces New Kent to a world of ash. The leader of Clan Blood Spirit Khan Alex Lassenem travels to the new capital of the Goliath Scorpions on the recently settled world of Arizona and meets with their leader Khan Freema Kirov. The two agree that their new objective must be to reduce the capabilities of the Society’s WarShip maintenance and construction starting with the facilities around Tamaron and Strana Mechty.
Visitor Centre Renown
Victoria Commonality, Capellan Confederation
Periphery
16th February 3116
Following another wave of internal emigration, the Capellan Confederation announces new visitor centres on several worlds of its periphery borders near the world of Renown expanding their area of influence. Again, like their previous movement these worlds had been inhabited but now have greater populations the moves into the periphery draws concerning views from the Magistracy of Canopus, Fronc Reaches and Taurian Concordat who have watched Capellan moves carefully.
Border Raiding
Marantha, Magistracy of Canopus
Periphery
21st February 3116
This was the McCoy’s Malcontents fifth raid in as many weeks and Captain Schuyler McCoy was feeling it his people hadn’t been home in two months and he was about ready to hang up his neurohelmet and take a break. The most recent attack, which like the others were supported by the Free Worlds League, had targeted the world of Marantha where the Magistracy produced aerospace fighters. The Malcontents had targeted an auxillary airfield quickly overwhelming the elements of the Fourth Canopian Light Horse and capturing four Lightning Aerospace Fighters which were now being packed up and prepared for travel along with several thousand tons of spare parts and ammunition all of which would be useful to the small unit.
On the ground Schyler McCoy stood beside his customized Archer BattleMech its left arm mounted hatchet still buried deeply in the torso of a downed Canopian Eyleuka. The fifty-five-ton BattleMech had been the last to fall at the airfield and the pilot had been captured alive following the battle. Like others Schyler would give them a chance to prove their worth to his Malcontents if not they’d be cut off. He thought watching as Stefanie Beas’ Fwltur SalvageMech walked into the frame along with a recently captured Shackleton ExplorationMech together the two Mech’s began to prize the Eyleuka off the Archer’s hatchet.
Amanda Cavalcanti walked over to join him watching the two Mechs work she began to speak but he could barely hear her over the screeching of metal caused by the work of the two BattleMechs. He raised his hand and the two began to walk away from the salvage work. “You know that thing will be more trouble than it’s worth” she said looking at the downed medium Mech “the ex-el will be hard to repair, the small cockpit is uncomfortable and the gyro is tough to repair.”
“You’re in a good mood today” he said sarcastically she’d done well in battle destroying a brand new Capellan-built 5L variant of the Cataphract BattleMech which weighed in at ten tons heavier than her Griffin already from what he’d heard she was thinking about keeping the Mech as her own. He decided that right now was not the time to mention that the Mech’s variable pulse lasers, extra light gyro and reflective armour would make it just as problematic as the downed Eyleuka.
“I’m tired, I’m also not sure what we’re going to do with the Lightnings which we don’t have pilots for or the repair bill we’re going to have after this little adventure.” She said her passion for the unit filled him with pride since she’d been captured into the unit, much like the Eyleuka pilot had in this battle, Amanda was now a member of his command lance following the death of Hector Barbarosa on Vixen.
“The FWL should foot most of the repair bill, that was our agreement” he countered “you keeping the Cataphract?”
“I think so” she admitted, it had been a tough battle with its reflective armour reducing the effectiveness of her particle cannon she’d resorted to a physical attack from behind which had critically damaged the gyroscope of the enemy Mech. The pilot had been captured but had so far refused to join the Malcontents. “We received a communication meant for the airfield commander, it was in the clear so no need to decrypt, Tellman’s Mistake and Bayindir have been invaded by Magistracy forces the Fourth have orders to pack up and prepare to move.”
“The FWL are going to get their war.” Schuyler said he knew his people had been hired in to ruffle the feathers of the Magistracy. Fortunately, they hadn’t sent too many forces against them so far but he didn’t fancy taking them deeper into the periphery state. This would be their last raid before heading home.
“Which could impact our payment.” Amanda pointed out he reached out and squeezed her shoulder gently.
“We’ve got enough in salvage to make up for it.” He said knowing the repair costs alone would probably cause issues “with what we’ve taken we should be able to refurbish a couple more of the hanger queens which are back on Whittington and it’ll set us up for our next move.” He said she didn’t resist his continued touch so he wrapped his arm around her fully as they turned back towards the salvage Mechs which had separated his Archer from the downed Eyleuka. “For now we’re going to head home before fighting fully erupts.”
“Sounds good to get some peace and quiet” she said resting her head against his arm “for a bit anyway.”
“We’ll see” he said continuing to hold her as the downed Magistracy BattleMech was dragged along the ground by the two salvage Mechs which were dragging it to the unit’s Mule-class DropShip.
Hiring Hall, Galatea Station
Galatea, Star League Protectorate
26th February 3116
She’d never been on the dead planet below but Tassa Kay found the concept of Galatea station strange. It had been built to provide mercenaries with a meeting place which she understood but why they didn’t just move the hiring halls from one planet to another bothered her, it seemed like it was such a waste. Not that it played on her mind too much today she’d been busy formally breaking off her contract with the Crescent Hawks which were currently rebuilding on the station.
The raids against Gibbs and Halmyre had cost the Hawks three MechWarriors but they’d salvaged two Jade Falcon BattleMechs which began to help offset their losses. Aksel Youngblood had already decided that the unit would be going back to the Jade Falcon front as soon as possible, which was enough of an incentive for Tassa to break ranks and announce the termination of her membership in the unit. Youngblood hadn’t been happy but he hadn’t tried to stop her which had freed her to look elsewhere.
Now she was in one of the hiring halls on one of the huge gravity decks that circled Galatea station’s solid core. The all of the gravity decks were a marvel of engineering with the internal facing sides of the decks made of reinforced transparent hull plating. The outer side of the internal core was made the same way allowing crewmen to see inside the massive station from the gravity deck. It was a strange set up but one Tassa could appreciate in a strange way the designers had tried to make the station feel bigger than it actually was, from what she understood there were plans to build an even bigger station in the system and try to rotate the entire structure to create a stable gravity field for everyone on board. The hiring halls were all located on the gravity decks and they were little more than open bars for people ready to serve in mercenary units and prospective customers to meet and discuss terms. She ordered a pint of Timbiqui Dark from the bar and searched out the man she’d come to meet Colonel Adam Wyld the commander of Wyld’s Jokers, she’d spoken to the man briefly through the “Link Network” which ran through the station and they’d agreed to meet here on gravity deck five, hall 6, McNasty’s Bar. Adam had said “look for the most unusual hat and that will be me.” He sounded eccentric but he also planned to head into the Free Worlds League which was exactly where she wanted to go.
Walking through the crowd of warriors she finally saw someone that stood out and headed in his direction taking a sip of her beer as she did. “Tassa Kay?” He said looking up at her she stood out, and she knew it, she had long red hair, a black leather jacket and a tight black tank top which revealed far more of her mid-rift than was normally acceptable. Her dress sense was intention she knew her looks made her desirable to men and women and she used that to her advantage.
“Only if Adam Wyld is asking” she answered seeing the man fully he was older than she’d expected in his fifties at least with a long graying beard, he wore a dark brown jacket and true to form he wore a tall pointed hat, almost like he wanted to look like a wizard from one of those old fantasy stories.
“It is I” he bellowed loudly raising his arms in a grand show as she sat down she noticed he had a child with him, so put off by his appearance she’d completely missed him. She suddenly appreciated Adam Wyld a little bit more he was theatrical intentionally so, intending on putting off anyone he spoke to so they would miss judge him.
“I understand you’re heading into the Free Worlds League?” She asked getting straight to business “that’s where I want to go. I’d like to sign on with you for the next six months and I’ll be willing to extend if it works out.”
“It would be more worth your money if you signed on with us fully.” He suggested as she drank more of her beer.
“Neg… Negative” she said covering her stutter as she drank. “Short term works better for me. My BattleMech belongs to me, I will pay for any repairs it needs and I’ll take my own salvage should I desire it. If the Jokers want what I claim you’ll pay me at 0.8 of basic price.” She suggested offering them a discount on her salvage would help even if sacrificing what she captured would hurt the unit.
“You’ll pay for the transport of anything “you” capture as well” Adam Wyld said “I won’t transport what you’re wanting for nothing.”
“Agreed” she said drinking more
“Then I think we can accommodate you. Youngblood sent through your record I think you’ll fit in find. One final question why leave the Hawks?”
“Aksel Youngblood plans to poach for more Falcons, I want to hunt Wolves.” She said smiling.
“That I can work with young lady, welcome to Wyld’s Jokers.” He said standing grandly waving his arms around and then reaching out with a massive hand now standing she could see Adam Wyld was a big man even without the tall pointed hat he stood at an impressive size. Standing up gracefully Tassa met his hand and shook it firmly she smirked internally as she could see his wince having not expected her firmer grip. Soon they’d leave this station and head after their first target.
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Next update
Fighting withdrawal
Wyatt, Thorin Administrative Area
Star League Protectorate
3rd March 3116
The air over the world of Wyatt was full of aircraft of various shapes and sizes as the invasion continued. Three days before the entirety of Clan Wolf’s Beta Galaxy supported by three WarShips had arrived in the system the Star League Navy had engaged them above but already the SLS Britannia and the SLS Surprise had been destroyed engaging the Wolves taking with them the WarShips Devastation and Principle. Both the Principle and SLS Surprise had served in the original Star League Defence Force but after the fighting here neither the Aegis or Kigamure-class vessels would ever fight again. Given their current courses the wreckage of Principle would likely impact with Wyatt’s moon in the next few hours while the Surprise would soon lose orbit unless the Wolves dealt with it before then.
Now over the planet the SLS Venus faced off against the Wolf McKenna-class Battleship Ward’s Legacy both battleships were damaged from the fighting but they were operational giving the SLDF forces still on the planet a window to escape. Below the WarShips in the atmosphere the battle for supremacy continued with aerospace fighters and DropShips dueling it out for control. Despite the SLDF forces signalling their retreat the Wolves continued to attack and it was the aerospace forces job to hold them at bay. Turning his Huscarl OmniFighter Captain Jeremy Kincaid-Cameron pulled behind a Broadsword DropShip with his wingman Lt Park ‘Petra’ Ye-seul close by off his port side “Petra, hit the port engines I’ll strike the starboard”
“Understood” she said both aircraft hammered the enemy DropShip with their aircraft’s two ultra-type autocannons tearing open the rear armour of the small DropShip its engines showing heavy damage from the onslaught began to stutter off-line with the ship beginning to bank into a starboard turn. From either side of the ship BattleMechs began throwing themselves clear of the doomed DropShip which had little chance of a controlled landing.
“Nice kill, let’s find another one.” Jeremy said banking off to the right with Petra following closely the fighters were specifically outfitted to strike down enemy DropShips and assault fighters but the sky had far more enemy craft than defenders.
“Renegade Actual to all Renegade forces, Renegade One lift off in 3 minutes. All forces rally on Renegade One.” Colonel Jeremiah Rose called out to all his remaining forces Renegade One was their Command DropShip and the callsign of the DropShip’s command squadron. All six remaining Renegade Command DropShips would be leaving Wyatt together.
“We better be close by when they go up” Jeremy noted
“Affirmative Shockwave, new target three-zero-three on tac-map.” She called out Jeremy hated the callsign he’d earned on Vestallas fighting the Capellans following a loss to enemy fighters the shockwave of his exploding fighter had knocked him out, when he’d returned to duty the name had been painted on his locker, his fighter and his new uniform so he had a callsign whether he liked it or not.
“Agreed, under over treatment?” He asked her looking at the target it was a Wolf Union C Mech carrier. Despite the SLDF’s heavy fighter screen covering their ground forces the Wolves still insisted on sending more and more enemies over their ground base.
“Affirmative salvo the engines and the chrome dome should make them think twice.” She said he noticed her fighter taking the lead.
“Alright, Petra, I have your back.” He said slipping the fighter slightly behind hers and onto her starboard wing the two seventy-five-ton aircraft flew in on the Union C tearing down its spheroid shaped hull they let loose a salvo of weapons fire buckling one of the Mechbay doors. Several laser blasts impacted the underside of his Huscarl but the armour held as they reached the underside of the Union they both let off another salvo of weapons fire tearing into the ship’s engines. Unlike the Broadsword this bigger DropShip would not be put off by a single strike instead the two Huscarls rolled over underneath the DropShip before climbing up around the DropShip again angling in on the chrome-colour painted top of the DropShip.
As the two fighters approached the Union C for their third strike both were struck by a steady stream of autocannon fire which impacted both fighters. “Break-off, Break-off!” He called out seeing they’d been engaged by a pair of Goth OmniFighters the Union would have to wait. “We need to get these guys before we can go near the DropShips.”
“They have range on us but those cannons don’t like being fired often.” She agreed as they saw the pair of Goth’s pursuing them autocannon fire continued to bracket the two Huscarls.
“Take them low and fast keep moving and keep your spacing we don’t need them taking pot shots at one of us and hitting the other!”
“Agreed” she answered the two Huscarls dived low across the SLDF base inviting MechWarriors to take shots at the Goths as they passed unfortunately the Renegade ground forces were busy keeping fighting off Wolf ground forces. The Wolves Beta Galaxy were pushing them back at every turn for a moment Jeremy was tempted to switch to ground attack and help out the ground forces but then his Huscarl took a heavy jolt as one of the Goth’s struck home. “Shockwave, you go over fast and I go under then a heavy lift!” his wing called out ahead he saw what she meant there was a bridge which the ground pounders had put out of action hours before now it would serve as some useful terrain for the two Huscarls.
The two aerospace fighters split as they approached the bridge with Jeremy heading over while Petra went under the bridge the two Goth’s did the same following their own individual targets but the two SLDF pilots had other ideas Jeremy poured on the speed keeping his course forward while Park slowed a little while going under, any pilot taking a seventy-five-ton aircraft under thirty metres in height would slow down. But this also brought one of the Goth’s ahead of her craft as she sped under the bridge Park immediately angled upwards and triggered her autocannons the stream of fire cut through Jeremy’s flight path but his fighter had already passed by unlike the Goth which was just in the right position autocannon fire slammed into the bottom of the aircraft penetrating its armour causing an ammunition explosion which knocked the Goth out of the fight permanently the pilot ejecting from their stricken craft.
Jeremy had also acted as Park as she’d fired on the Goth, he’d cut his fighter’s speed and banked heavily to the right turning his fighter in as tight a turn as was possible. Because of his tight turn his fighter had lost height bringing him in line with the speeding Goth. Unlike Park’s unsuspecting target this one could see him and it immediately opened fire with its paired cannons which had better reach than his own weapons. Jeremy relied on his fighter’s armour and speed accelerating heavily back towards the Goth on a head-to-head pass he let rip with both autocannons and his medium pulse lasers as the range cut to near point-blank range. There was little chance of the sixty-ton aerospace fighter surviving the onslaught with his heavy ballistic attack causing rippled explosions across the Goth’s fuselage and wings. At the height the pilot was at they had no chance of a safe ejection but instead of having to ride the wreckage to the ground as one of the pulse lasers cut through the cockpit instantly incinerating the pilot. One of the autocannons rounds then penetrated the ammunition storage causing a massive explosion which consumed the fighter. At the speed he was travelling and with no way to clear the bridge on his current course Jeremy plowed through the explosion diving under the broken bridge.
“Shockwave, you alright?” Park called out as Jeremy’s fighter flew back into clear air a moment or so later.
“A little beat up, but I’ll manage another round or two.”
“I was worried the shockwave from that explosion would take you out…”
“Shut-up Park!” Jeremy shouted back smiling as he did, she was trying to get under his skin and it was working. “Let’s find another target.”
“Renegade Actual to all commands Renegade One is airborne! All aerospace fighters’ rendezvous in orbit.”
“That’s our bug out call” Park said as the two Huscarls reunited flying towards their base, on the ground in among the broken vehicles and BattleMechs they could see an Outpost DropShip painted in the colours of Clan Wolf’s Beta Galaxy.
“Tempting target” Jeremy said tilting his fighter’s wings at the Outpost considering an attack just as the doors began to open.
“We won’t have the speed to catch up with the other Renegades” Park answered pulling the nose of her fighter towards the sky but maintaining formation “next time Shockwave. We’ll be back.”
“Count on it” he agreed giving up his desire to damage the Wolf ship and instead turning to follow the other retreating Renegades DropShips and fighters, the battle for Wyatt was over. With the damage the command had taken the Northwind Renegades would be out of the fight for months meaning Jeremy had time to plan his revenge.
Terminal Nine
Expanded Region, Nova Cat’s Den
10th March 3116
The Nova Cats complete their ninth Dominion Terminal space station which has been built in the Expanded Region of the Nova Cat’s Den between Terminal Four and the systems of Pegasi and Lucian. The Nova Cats will use the station as part habitat, part way station to be used by the Clan as it supplies Pegasi with troops and other supplies. The Terminal will also serve as a coordination point for mining operations in the system following the discovery of valuable materials on several of the larger asteroids in the system. Already the Nova Cats had built mining operations in the system which provided work for nearly three thousand of the lower castes.
The initial Nova Cat plan had been to build two more of the Terminal type of space station between the Pegasi and Carcri systems and between the Carcri and Caphai systems but following the destruction of the Eigth terminal to Federated Suns hands and the loss of several WarShips during their recent campaign against the Succession State the Nova Cat leadership chooses to put resources into WarShip construction instead holding the Terminal project.
Trial of Possession
Nox, Clan Lynx Territory
Rasalhague Dominion
13th March 3116
In a Trial of Possession, the Seventh Nova Cat Roar Cluster of Clan Lynx’s Zeta Galaxy and engages the Eighth Bear Cuirassiers Cluster of the Rasalhague Dominion’s Polar Bear Assault Galaxy. Fighting in open plains near the capital city of Bolsun the Lynx warriors use their speed to out-maneuver the Rasalhague Dominion forces deploying Elementals and Clan Standard Battle Armour suits in and around the Dominion’s lines. With Lynx warriors swamping the Eighth’s lines the trial is over within an hour with the Seventh’s victory assured. In celebration of the successes on Nox the Seventh changes its name to the Seventh Lynx Battle Cluster casting off its Nova Cat past embracing its place in the new Clan.
Battle of Donegal
Donegal, Lyran Commonwealth
19th March 3116
The Lyran Commonwealth, Star League Defence Force and mercenary forces push Clan Jade Falcons out of the Donegal system but at with heavy losses. Archon Jessica Steiner herself joins the invasion launching off of Tharkad commanding the invasion from the LCS Peter Steiner-Davion, an Indefatigable-class Battleship, she oversees the invasion of their former province capital. As part of the forces the Grey Death Legion who are well experienced in recent Jade Falcon fighting are involved in the battle. The Jade Falcons fight a stand-up battle in a Trial of Position which turns against them leading to the Clan accepting the offer of Hegira and retreating from the system.
The victory in the Donegal system is a psychological victory for the Lyran Commonwealth but it costs them hundreds of men and women. For the Jade Falcons the Clan lost several Cluster’s claiming Donegal but the push towards Tharkad appears to have been slowed and instead the Clan is turning its attention back towards the drive to Terra.
Trial of Possession
Shasta, District of Marik
Free Worlds League
20th March 3116
Star Colonel Darnel Tseng stood victorious on the Battlefield still suited in his Elemental Battle Armour suit as Clan Sea Fox seized control over the Shasta and Mundrabilla systems from the Free Worlds League. Clan Sea Fox had trade embassys on the worlds for years and Tseng’s Khanate the Predators had chosen to expand their embassy to the whole world. After a short battle the Sea Foxes had quickly obliterated the Marik Militia units remaining on the worlds seizing control of the two systems.
The frequency crackled to life “this is Star Colonel Perian Rodriguez of the Fifteenth Cruiser Cluster, prepare yourselves for battle.” A female voice said Darnel looked up and saw an unknown BattleMech falling from the sky it looked like a Summoner OmniMech but it looked differently. The Fifteenth Cruiser Cluster was part of the Starstrike Khanate which hadn’t been part of this battle.”
“This is Star Colonel Darnel Tseng my forces are victorious on Shashta it is now a Sea Fox holding. Fifteenth Cruiser Cluster you may stand-down. Quineg?”
“Neg, Star Colonel Tseng our battle is against your forces. Our intention is to take this holding for the Starstrike Khanate.”
“Our forces have just completed a battle. You would attack your own Clan in a Trial of Possession without allowing them to refit. Where is the honour in that battle?” Darnel asked watching the strange BattleMech land and unload a pulse laser, particle cannon and lasers on one of Darnel’s Mechs. “I request a hold until our forces are prepared and a true Batchall can be held.” Off to Darnels right he saw a fast-moving BattleMech he didn’t recoignize turning he saw it was a deep blue with green lines and stars, the colours of the Starstrike Khanate. He let off his last two short range missiles at the target as he saw it open fire with a pulse laser and missiles against his troops. Both of his missiles struck their target but the BattleMech’s armour barely looked damaged as it turned Darnel noticed the Mech had a strange double low-slung double-sided head and tall arms. His battle computer said that it was named as a Hammerhead. Before Darnel could even move the Mech unloaded another volley of short-range missiles several of which slammed into Darnel’s suit knocking the wind out of the Elemental as his suit flew backwards following the impact. Looking up he tried to pick himself back up but the last thing Darnel saw was another pulse laser blast that illuminated Darnel’s suit and killed the Star Colonel inside.
Within an hour the Fifteenth Cruiser Cluster proclaimed victory seizing control of the trade zone on Shasta and the system beyond with the Fourty-second Combined Strike Cluster destroyed in the battle. Fighting between two Khanates was not an uncommon thing, the Khanates were self contained factions of the Sea Fox Clan out to expand the Clan’s territory and secure the most resources by anyway necessary however the complete destruction of a Cluster and the lack of an honour trial are uncommon within inter-Clan battles.
Public announcement, Presidential Palace
Larkinge, Swartklip
Swartklip Protectorate
29th March 3116
On a sunny mid summer day in the rose garden of the presidential palace on Swartklip in the Lyran Periphery region the assembled press from Swartklip, the nearby worlds, the Lyran Commonwealth and the Star League Protectorate had been invited for a meeting. There it had been announced that the leadership of Swartklip, Elume, Sweet Water, Canal, Tsarahaven and Howick would be making an announcement along with members of the Star League Defence Force. For several years now the SLDF had invested heavily in Swartklip the world now boasted an entire brigade of guard regiments, a permanent naval presence, an extensive training ranges on the ground and in space and a space station all of which had created jobs for the world. The heavy SLDF presence in the system had brought support contracts for all of the nearby systems further creating a boom for the region. The Lyran Commonwealth had sat back and reaped the rewards of this investment while citizens of the Star League Protectorate, who for the most part paid for the SLDF’s expansion, questioned why there was so much spent on a remote region.
Today these questions and more were answered as the leaders of each of the six worlds filtered out President Bihr Huan the dark-skinned leader of Swartklip steeped forwards. Generations ago his ancestors had been some of the first to settle on Swartklip forming part of the Indian population who resided on the world. In the most recent planetary election Bihr had swept his opponents with a progressive and outward looking manifesto. “Ladies and gentlemen of the assembled press thank you for attending today, as you can see, I am joined by the assembled leadership of Elume, Sweet Water, Canal, Tsarahaven and Howick and by Fleet Admiral Anthony Fitzgerald, the commander of the Star League Defence Forces Navy.” He said announcing everyone who was present. “Today we are here to announce that Swartklip and the worlds nearby it have requested aid and protection from the Star League and we have been accepted. As of this date our worlds will form a new Protectorate centred on Swartklip with myself serving as its first Protector-General.” He said the announcement caused several of the reporters’ cameras to flash and it would be a moment beamed across the Inner Sphere.
“All of our planetary forces will immediately be recognised as Star League Defence Force Guard regiments and will immediately be in line for additional support and an influx of personnel. Each of our worlds will continue to build on the relationships we already have and continue to cooperate with our neighbours in the Lyran Commonwealth. To the people of the Lyran nation we are not a breakaway state, we consider ourselves as loyal to you as we were yesterday, we just… need to stand up for ourselves and look at our future with the Clans upon us as they were upon other worlds in the past our worlds need more support and a presence that currently the Commonwealth cannot provide.” He said recently all of the worlds had suffered heavily from raids by the Stone Spirits which although not officially recoignised as a Clan state it was heavily influenced by the Clan members who had formed it. The Lyrans had provided the region with heavy support but the SLDF offered further protection and had placed a greater emphasis on providing the worlds with the equipment they needed and letting the locals do the job creating more local support for the SLDF instead of sending regiments from beyond the worlds. The only heavy outside presence on Swartklip was the resting navy personnel which crewed the WarShips and Space Station in the system and they brought in credits from elsewhere which further stimulated Swartklip’s economy.
“We will of course extend all courtesies to the Lyran Commonwealth personnel stationed within our military units and on our worlds and will make arrangements to have them transferred to other stations should they desire.” He said extending the olive branch for the most part their planetary defence forces would be made up of personnel from their own worlds but there would be those from beyond their borders who had been assigned to a backwater posting who may wish to still be remain within the Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces. There were also civilians who were employed directly by agencies that were based throughout the Lyran realm who may not wish to move their employment into another nations area of influence.
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Interesting update. I have sinking feeling that Star League's days are numbered.
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Well, what with all the "Protectorates" that keep springing up in all the Great House areas ... yeah. Don't think they'll keep looking on while they lose the nominal control of worlds that had been theirs for very long timeframes - at least - centuries...
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I'll try to keep this more up to date than I have recently but December has been the usual fun.
Office of the Khans
Former Kell Family Hold, Arc Royal
Jade Falcon Occupation Zone
9th April 3116
The place for a Clan warrior was not behind a desk but today was one of those days that Khan Jana Pryde of the Jade Falcons had to remain. Today she had authorized the creation of several new Clusters of warriors and deployed them into the Lyran Commonwealth against the worlds of Collnas, Jaumegrande, Turinge, Bjornlunda and Furillo. The battles the warriors would face would be their initial Trial of Possession those that survived would become members of the Jade Falcon warrior caste, their time as cadets was over. Recently she had reinforced her Clan with several Clusters of Jade Falcon warriors won in Harvest Trials taken against the Sea Fox, Hell’s Horses and Coyote Clans the Falcons had a plan gone were plans to conquer the capital worlds of the Lyran Commonwealth instead they were going for the nation’s manufacturing capital Hesperus II.
In the coming days only the systems of Jaumegrande and Bjornunda all fell to the Jade Falcon cadets with those that survived their victory now granted warrior status. The forces deployed to Collnas, Turinge, and Furillo were wiped out completely by the Lyran defenders. In all the Jade Falcons had lost the equivalent to seven clusters of warriors but they were a couple of jumps closer towards their goal of Terra. With the cadets proving their worth Jana Pryde and the elite units of the Clan would charge into the heart of the Isle of Skye.
As the Falcons have successes against the Lyrans the Rasalhague Dominion and Lynx Clan factions have other successes jointly assaulting the Draconis Combine the two Clan factions capture Almunge, Brocchi’s Cluster, Coudoux, Hanover and Kabah before the end of April. The continued joint operations by the two Clans and the successes of Clan Jade Falcon shows the Inner Sphere that they need another solution to fight the Clans.
Public Health Announcement
Triad, Tharkad
Halfway Province, Lyran Commonwealth
22nd April 3116
On Tri-vid screens across the Inner Sphere and beyond Dr Tobias Roeper, the Head of Lyran Health stands to make an announcement that would cause fear and panic in many places. Tobias Roeper was in his late sixties and had never reached for the limelight but today he needed to be the one that spoke to the people of the Lyran Commonwealth. “Ladies and gentlemen, I am Dr Tobias Roeper the head of the health department for the Lyran Commonwealth, we have been monitoring a genetic virus which targets specific genes causing illness and then death. The scientific and medical community across the Lyran Commonwealth and with our allies in the Star League Defence Force are doing all they can to find the best treatment for sufferers of this virus” the over weight balding man said looking at the tri-vid camera Roeper was not a picture of health but he was the man best placed to inform the people of what was wrong.
“Unfortunately, due to the severity and targeted nature of this virus and the unknown transmission rate and method, certain steps have had to be taken. As of this date the 22nd of April 3116 the systems of Rosice and Radostov are under a quarantine with restricted travel into and out of these systems. This will remain in effect until further information is gained on the virus.” He said pausing for a moment “to the people who are living and visiting these worlds listen to the authorities on these worlds they are there to help you, if you do not have a permanent residence on these worlds and are stranded the authorities there will help you. You will not be forgotten.” He promised the people on the two quarantined worlds. “Updates will continue on the progress of this virus, the ongoing quarantine and treatments that will be rolled out by your health providers. If you have left ether the Rosice or Radostov systems within the last week please report to your nearest health centre for a health check up.”
Distress Signal
Uncharted world, Outworlds Wastes
Periphery
30th April 3116
Following the detection of a distress signal when their JumpShip had entered the system Captain Alec Oak had ordered the Raven Alliance’s Thermo Police into the system to investigate it had taken their two DropShips three days to make the trip. The distress call was generic and continued to repeat that there was a DropShip which had landed on the world and been unable to leave the crew were now taking shelter near their ship and required assistance. The same message could have been playing for decades but one of the reasons the Thermo Police were out here in the Outworlds Wastes was to investigate any signals they picked up.
From orbit the Headquarters, their Lion-class DropShip had detected what appeared to be an ancient Mingo-class Dropshuttle which hadn’t been used in more than one hundred years despite this indication that the ship’s crew would have been long dead Oak ordered the unit to land. The Headquarters had found a landing zone a little under a kilometre from the Mingo at one end of a long rocky ravine from orbit the planet looked entirely land locked with a few small lakes and rivers dotted across the landscape the atmosphere was thin and the world was colder than a comfortable world but there wasn’t enough moisture to make it a wet or snow-covered place. From what he’d seen since leading the landing zone there wasn’t many large creatures in the area either just some small small mammals the size of a domesticated dog, a poorly fed one at that.
From the landing zone the unit’s ten BattleMechs could move in and investigate the find. The Thermo Police’s second DropShip the Precinct One, a Buccaneer-class vessel, had needed a longer area of land to come done on and had landed nearly three kilometres away on board it was their three IndustrialMechs, supporting infantry, support staff and the five ProtoMechs assigned to the unit. For the initial part of the mission the ProtoMechs would be the primary defence for Precinct One. As a trueborn Raven Karl had applauded Oak’s aggressive strategy this way, they would engage with those already on the planet in less than an hour.
In his BattleMech Karl followed Oak’s Dervish in his Warhammer IIC at the other side of the Dervish walked Rhodes Cable’s own Warhammer while the Hercules and Ursus BattleMechs followed them by one hundred metres. Further back still was the support star of its four regular Mechs and Alisan Nostra’s Hunter IIC which had traveled onboard the Headquarters. Making their way along the ravine it was Karl’s Warhammer IIC’s sensors that detected the BattleMech first it was a design he didn’t recognize, as quickly as he’d seen the contact it was gone again. “Contact!” He called out looking over the sensor image he could see it was a smaller Mech than his Warhammer IIC, it had a nearly round torso with two cannons extending from its back one over each shoulder. The Mech had two fully formed arms and back-canted pointed toed legs. “Single unidentified BattleMech, I am moving to investigate.”
“Negative, MechWarrior Karl await until we are in position.” Oak said but Karl’s BattleMech had already turned to face the potential threat.
“Too late” he said to himself allowing his finger to slip off the transmission button he muttered “freebirth” under his breath. As a Clan Trueborn warrior Karl’s position may be subordinate to Oak in position but his birthright took most importance and if he ever wished to win a Bloodname he’d need to count on his genes and taking on every challenge he could.
His Warhammer IIC8 was about two hundred metres clear of the other BattleMechs rounding a pile of grey rocks sitting on the brown soil his quarry appeared standing waiting for him behind the BattleMech there were plenty of thick rock cropping which would impede any Mech’s movement, his BattleMech’s warbook quickly tried to identify the BattleMech but did not recognize it. Quickly Karl opened a communication channel “I am MechWarrior Karl of Clan Snow Raven, I challenge the MechWarrior ahead of my position, this will be a dual of honour may no-one else interfere.” He said before the other BattleMechs could round the corner the smaller Mech’s arms were raised and his sensors could detect targeting systems coming from the Mech. “These other warriors will not become involved if you accept this challenge.”
“I am MechWarrior Berat Hordwon of the Escorpión Imperio Seekers we have claimed this world you are intruding on our territory.” The MechWarrior responded the BattleMech holding fire his Warhammer IIC8’s sensors had identified that the enemy Mech was either forty or forty-five tons in weight and was most likely built using Clan technology.
“The who?” Karl pondered to himself for a moment before triggering the communication system “MechWarrior, I do not know who your Escorpión Imperio is…” he said he noticed his private communication channel between him and Lieutenant Alisan Nostra was also active. “I am a member of Clan Snow Raven and I have challenged you to one-on-one combat. You will accept it or you will face my entire Star’s fury.”
“And yours will face mine” the MechWarrior responded from behind the unknown design Karl saw a Daedalus QuadMech rise fully to its feet, beside it looked like a pair of Orion BattleMechs, though his Warhammer’s warbook was struggling to lock down on the Mech type, finally a Timber Wolf OmniMech rose fully to its feet. Karl cursed himself he had challenged a MechWarrior when the Star Captain was waiting for them, now one of his Starmates would defeat them and the glory that would be attached to that victory. Karl noticed that his communication channel was still waiting with Nostra.
“Wait one” he said keeping his fingers near the firing triggers he switched channel his eyes never leaving the enemy Mech “what is it?” He snapped “you may be born of Clan blood, but you do not know our ways! Quiaff?” He demanded angrily.
“MechWarrior Karl, the name Hordwon was once an Ice Hellion name, this Warrior could be a trueborn like you.”
“Of a dead Clan and now of a Bandit Kingdom.” Karl said pondering for a moment “I have an idea” he said switching back to the other frequency “MechWarrior Hordwon, I am a trueborn of the Snow Raven Clan, we are tracking down a Bandit Caste force. You are far from home it is possible you have stumbled into our hunt.”
“This world has been claimed as our own MechWarrior it is you who have stumbled somewhere.”
“Then we will dispense with our Honour trial which you have failed to answer, I declare a Trial of Possession over this world. Clan Snow Raven’s Thermo Police bring ten BattleMechs, 3 Industrial Mechs and five ProtoMechs to this battle.” He declared now he saw Captain Alec Oak’s frequency was active.
“We agree, but with one provision you accept all surivors from our battle into your Clan.”
“I accept.” He said switching the frequency he activated Oak’s channel “Sir” he said confidently.
“What are you doing! We are not here to declare an invasion on a world?”
“We are Clansmen Captain Oak. Your unit has been allowed some autonomy but I was born for battle, they have accepted our battle.” He said “we were ordered to look around the periphery the Raven Alliance, we have found something that could potentially have found a threat on our border…”
“So, you declare war on them!”
“A Trial of Possession is not the same as a War.” He stated calmly “Captain, these warriors could potentially be from the fallen Ice Hellion Clan, Lieutenant Nostra identified the name of the warrior I spoke to as a Hellion bloodname.” He explained “should they be of Clan blood and should this Escorpión Imperio be close to our borders we should be prepared for them, Quiaff?” He asked wondering if Oak had listened to what was going on.
“You are correct MechWarrior, we should investigate”
“Aff” he said swapping back to the open frequency “we are ready to begin this trial here and now, but as the defender I am willing to give you the choice of venue and time as is our tradition.”
“We are also ready, we have this single star of BattleMechs here, our other forces protect our landing site and will not be included in this battle. I will transmit our combat and codex data. Quiaff?”
“Aff, your bid of five BattleMechs is accepted, the Snow Ravens have ten BattleMech here at present as our initial bid.” He said swapping to the Snow Raven secure channel “Captain Oak, you heard their bid as is our tradition we must inform them who will fight them. We can take all of our BattleMechs but that will not win our Clan honour.”
“It would be the most effective use of our forces.” His commander initially answered “but you understand this sort of thing better than I and this is your battle MechWarrior. Choose the force you wish to battle; I seed command of this trial to you.” Oak said Karl almost smiled, almost being the correct term now that Karl was in command any failure would fall on him but so would the victory.
Karl sat for a moment and looked at the data shared by the enemy MechWarrior the forty-ton Mech he’d initially seen was called a Whipscorpion and was an alien design to him before today. The two BattleMechs which had looked like Orions were in fact known as Reconquista C BattleMechs which were more like IndustrialMechs than proper BattleMechs they were powered by Fuel Cell engines, making them slower than almost any other Mech Karl had seen and they featured strange looking lift hoists hanging from their backs. What they’d originally been designed for was anyone’s guess but now they were a nightmarish mix of IndustrialMech and BattleMech but still would likely be no match for a true Clan BattleMech. The Timber Wolf and Goliath were likely going to be the toughest of opponents the Timber Wolf was an iconic Clan OmniMech known across the Inner Sphere for its prowess in battle while the Goliath was an eighty ton heavily armoured QuadMech. “We must match the BattleMechs we will face, I will take on the Timber Wolf, Rudolf and Joel you will each face one of their Reconquistas they are heavier than your Mechs but you are capable warriors and you have better equipment than them. Adrie your Ursus is lighter than that Daedalus but it is like those Reconquista’s and built as an IndustrialMech, keep moving and force its surrender.”
“And I will take on the Whipscorpion.” Oak said
“Captain, it may be lighter than your Mech but it is a superior machine.” Karl warned
“I’m still the commander of this unit Karl, if we’re going to fight them then I’ll take on the target.” Oak said
“Aff, Captain, transmitting data.”
A short while later the ten Mechs were facing off against each other ready to engage in battle and straight away as planned the separate challenges flew out almost immediately the Dark Crow, Shadow Hawk IIC and Ursus II from the Thermo Police launched themselves into the air attacking their opponents. In the less nimble Warhammer IIC Karl stood his ground. “I am MechWarrior Karl of the Snow Raven Clan; I began this trial and I challenge the Timber Wolf opposite my positon to single combat may no other enter.”
“I am Star Commander Pine I accept your challenge MechWarrior; may no other enter” Karl cursed his luck the Timber Wolf was the star’s commander but unlike the Whipscorpion pilot he wasn’t bloodnamed. Never mind the fight was now more important.” The Timber Wolf opposite him opened fire with both large lasers one went wide while the other slammed into the Warhammer’s left leg just as Karl charged forwards returning fire with both arm mounted Heavy Large Lasers the opal coloured beams stretched the distance between the two Mechs savaging the Timber Wolf’s armour as a wave of heat rushed into the Warhammer IIC’s cockpit.
Ignoring the rising heat Karl pulled the secondary triggers hitting out with his two plasma cannons intending on heating up the enemy Timber Wolf as he fired the Timber Wolf began to move launching forty missiles in his direction. Karl watched as the missiles approached ducking at nearly the last moment throwing off a third of the missiles while the rest slammed into his eighty-ton Mech’s armour. Cutting to the right Karl watched as his lasers cycled and pulled the triggers again ignoring the rising heat once more slapping the manual override keeping forced shutdown at bay. One one of his opal beams hit his target burning into the Timber Wolf’s left side torso coring the armour. He saw a rise in heat from the Timber Wolf indicating his weapons were doing something. The crouched over design twisted its damaged side away from him and firing a pair of blue coloured medium lasers and a green pulse laser all three burned into his charging Warhammer IIC causing more armour damage but little else. Karl smelled blood cutting to side he triggered his Mech’s secondary armament firing his own torso mounted two medium lasers and short-range missile launcher. One of his own blue beams of high-powered light and energy slammed into the ground but the other beam burned into the Timber Wolf’s left leg. Moments later the six short range missiles slammed into the Timber Wolf exploding all over the hunched over Mech’s frame causing damage.
In retaliation the enemy Mech’s long range missiles and red coloured large lasers reached out at the Warhammer damaging armour all down the right side of Karl’s Mech, Karl noticed the SRM launcher blink out damaged by the assault he flicked the ammo dump for the launcher. He continued moving trying to get behind the Timber Wolf firing both plasma cannons one slammed into the side of the ravine the super heated plasma causing the very rock face to explode outwards showering the Timber Wolf in small pieces of rock.
Machine gun, laser and pulse laser fire tracked the running Warhammer IIC causing more damage against the side of the assault Mech, but Karl wasn’t ready to stop he continued moving and firing doing his best to make himself a tough target for the enemy OmniMech while trying to cause heavy damage in response the heat inside the Warhammer IIC rose significantly but he ignored it and continued to move. One twin volley of firey plasma cannon and opal heavy laser blasts slammed into the Timber Wolf’s torso burrowing deep inside the right side of the Mech. Inside the machine the super heated plasma caused the Timber Wolf’s long range missile ammunition bay to explode. The CASE technology built into the OmniMech tried to save the machine by venting the explosions through specially designed panels but the damage done by the heavy lasers was enough to cause the entire right side to essentially collapse with the arm falling useless to its side.
With his BattleMech crippled Star Commander Pine signaled his surrender unwilling to die against a superior pilot. Karl slowed his Mech to a walk and accepted the Timber Wolf pilot’s surrender ordering him to stand down he then turned to face the rest of the battlefield. Both Rudolf and Joel were still fighting their respective targets both of the MechWarriors appeared to be getting the better of their targets. He saw that Adrie’s Ursus II similarly was standing over the hunched over Daedalus, the enemy IndustrialMech’s jury rigged weapons appeared to be disabled and it was trying to engage her with its backhoe but she was refusing to engage in physical combat. Finally, he saw the Whipscorpion though damaged was standing victorious over Captain Oak’s Dervish which lay on its side downed. From his position Karl could see the cockpit was intact and Oak hadn’t punched out meaning he was probably injured inside the BattleMech.
Turning to face the Whipscorpion Karl decided to take a different tract “to the MechWarrior piloting the BattleMech opposite me I am Karl of Clan Snow Raven. You have defeated my unit’s commander and I have defeated yours, my Starmates are getting the better of yours in this battle. We can fight and it may resort in your death or you can accept defeat and we can end this now. I will honour our agreement the warriors that fought today will not be abandoned.” He said keeping his targeting systems active and trained on the lighter Mech at this range both of his heavy lasers could hit the enemy Mech. He wanted to capture the Whipscorpion it was an unknown design to his Clan and although the data gained during this battle would be invaluable in understanding its operation having a copy of the design would cement their victory.
“I MechWarrior Berat Hordwon accept the Snow Raven victory, all Escorpión Imperio Mechs are ordered to stand down. MechWarrior Karl, we are yours to command.” He ordered slowly the fighting wound down to nothing and the Ravens stood victorious over the enemy Mechs. They now controlled the fate of these warriors and of the world.
In the coming hours Karl learned that Alec Oak had died commanding his Dervish which left command of the unit to Lieutenant Andrei Solomatin. Of the enemy MechWarriors Star Commander Pine had also died piloting his Timber Wolf with the OmniMech too badly damaged to be salvaged with his own BattleMech damaged Karl had ordered that the surviving parts of the Mech be used to repair his own while the Thermo Police got to work investigating why these people were on this world.
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For three weeks the Thermo Police interrogated the captured warriors and those that had accompanied them. The Police’s officers found that the five Mechs had been defending nearly two hundred civilians and conventionally armed infantry soldiers who had been found encamped around their ancient Mingo-class DropShuttle almost three kilometres from the battlesite, on learning that their Mech forces had lost in battle all of the defenders had surrendered without a single shot fired.
During the interviews and interrogations that followed the Thermo Police had found that their ship had been attached to an equally ancient Conestoga-class JumpShip which had been deployed on a long-range exploration of space by the Escorpión Imperio searching for resources and worlds to capture. They had found the Imperio was a fusion of former Clan Goliath Scorpion, Ice Hellion and Steel Viper elements with a deep space periphery nation that they had captured following the loss of Clan space to the Society. Considering the age of the Conestoga, the Mingo and their Reconquista BattleMechs the Snow Ravens did not consider the Imperio to be a threat to the Raven Alliance but with the Conestoga still out there the unit had been tasked with attempting to track down the ship and establishing contact with them before they came into contact with the Alliance.
Karl had been called into what was now Captain Solomartin’s office onboard the Headquarters DropShip. Solomartin was a dark-skinned man of part Japanese descent he wore traditional Japanese styled robes instead of a uniform and he had moved his own personal set of samuri armour into the office since taking it. While the armour had no practical modern use, he knew tha the navy blue/teal set of layered leather and metal armour meant a lot to the unit’s new captain, he that Solomartin’s family came from the former-Draconis Combine world of Tabayama and that the armour had been handed down to him and it was classed as a family heirloom. The armour now dominated one side of the small office with its domed helmet and elaborate face mask staring at anyone who wished to challenge the unit’s new captain. The vibrant colours and delicate workmanship that had gone into the armour were clear to see. “Sir, reporting as ordered.”
“MechWarrior Karl, I have decided to promote you to Section Leader of the second star.”
“Section Leader?” Karl asked “that is not a Clan rank, Quineg?”
“Negative it is not, it is a Thermo Police rank. This command is not a traditional one Karl. You may gain recognition within this unit but you will still need to show your prowess in front of members of the Clan before you gain a true rank. Now I am offering you a chance to gain experience beyond your position so that when you do gain rank within the Snow Ravens you are ready for that position. Do you accept?” He asked Karl stood thinking for a moment, he should be facing MechWarriors of equal skill to him in single combat for the right to command in battle but instead he gained a fake rank inside a unit which his clan cared little for.
“Aff, Captain, I accept the challenge and opportunity. I will also take the first chance I can get when we are back in Clan space to confirm this promotion.” He said deciding to take on the challenge.
“Very good, I’d expect nothing less. Your first job is to prepare the unit for departure we have an enemy to track down.” Solomartin announced but Karl remained hovering for a moment. “A problem Section Leader?”
“Aff, what about the people on this world, they are not Snow Raven but we accepted their surrender.”
“The ruling of our Clan is that we accepted the surrender of the surviving three MechWarriors. Of those only Berat Hordwon has an active BattleMech which we will take with us. Should they prove themselves capable then they will be accepted into the Clan otherwise they will remain as Bondsmen.” Solomartin said respecting the Clan tradition of taking captured MechWarriors and giving them the chance of becoming warriors again. “The others the Clan have decided they did not engage us in combat so they will not be accepted. We will leave them here with the supplies we can afford to and with the conventional weapons they were armed with when we encountered them.”
“There is not a lot of resources on this world” Karl pointed out “our estimates suggest they will not survive long term without support.”
“Aff, that I am aware, I have made my argument to our people but they do not see the value in supporting such a small population at such a distance.” Solomartin said “unfortunately I do not have the influence to ensure they get the support they will most likely need.” He said seeing the disappointment in Karl’s face. “You are showing more concern for the population than most trueborns would” he said seeing Karl’s eyes come up in surprise “that is not a criticism Section Leader to succeed in this unit you will need it.” He said “now prepare the unit for extraction we have a hunt to continue.”
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Woah, some interesting turn of events on Thermo Police patrol! nice writing, Dragoncat!
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I forgot to say in the post the Whipscorpion was created by Bishop Steiner and I first saw it and it's art on Facebook.
The design is 40 tons, moves 6/9/6, has 2 each of Improved Heavy Medium Lasers (one each arm), 2 ATM3 and 2 Plasma Canons (one in each side torso) and 2 centrally mounted Small Pulse Lasers, it's built on an Endo-Composite structure and has Ferro Fibrous armour
I'd love to post the art here but it was done as a commission so I won't, its publicly available on Facebook and Bishop Steiner's Patreon page
https://m.facebook.com/groups/ClassicBattletech/permalink/5500516773354429/ (https://m.facebook.com/groups/ClassicBattletech/permalink/5500516773354429/)
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Not able access the facebook page.
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DS Santiago de Cuba (Stork-class DropShip)
Uncharted system near Reese Station
Alarion Province, Lyran Commonwealth
8th May 3116
For more than thirty years there had been rumours of an uncharted but habited system near Reese Station deep inside the Lyran Commonwealth but despite a search there had never been a sign of a habitable planet or moon in the area, “never that is until now.” Dr Thomas Mazzarelli thought as he stood on the command bridge of the Stork-class DropShip Santiago de Cuba he had spent a decade of his life working within his scientific fellowship searching for worlds lost off of Lyran maps during the Age of Wars and Succession Wars. Two months ago, when he was based on Reese Station the powerful telescopes there spotted what he believed to be indications of a spacer colony in this system and then only one month before scientists in the Tiruppir system looking at the same thing he had been spotted the same thing. With two pieces of evidence to back his claims his belief up Mazzarelli had been authorized to take one of his fellowships two exploration DropShips to this system. The JumpShip merchant they had hired to take them here had already continued its delivery mission and had left the system for the next month and a half the Santiago de Cuba was on its own which suited Mazzarelli just fine they could take a slow one gravity burn around the system and discover what it had hidden.
Now ten days into their forty-eight-day mission Mazzarelli was buzzing with excitement. “We have something!” One of the bridge officers shouted out he was a young man in an unmarked coverall which had been kept clean, and he was clean shaven another bonus on a civilian ship far from any oversight.
“What is it?” He called out moving towards the front of the small DropShip’s bridge past the Captain’s console “my apologies, Captain.” Mazzarelli said sheepishly nodding and backing off the Doctor was not a small man; he was not afraid to admit he enjoyed the sweeter things in life probably too much. His balding head and greying hair did little to dis-way this idea. He didn’t need to get on the wrong side of a ship’s captain this early into a trip.
“It’s your mission Doc, just turn to me when things hit the fan.” Captain Symonds said quietly he was a lot more like Mazzarelli than he’d like to admit he liked an easy life, exploration missions like this generally caused little in the way of problems he could put up with an excitable scientist or thirteen as this little trip had brought.
“Thank you, Captain,” Mazzarelli said stepping forward once again “what do you have watchman?” He asked not knowing the you man’s rank or position.
“It’s rubbish, sir, a garbage drop by the looks of it from a passing ship.” Mazzarelli beamed the biggest smile he could at the young man.
“If I were twenty years younger, I would kiss you!” He said turning back to Captain Symonds “Captain we’re on the right track you don’t get rubbish without traffic I’d like permission to bring it onboard.”
“Other people’s rubbish” Symonds repeated so he was absolutely sure. “Doctor you know that could include their… left over… bio-matter?” He asked just to make sure that the Doctor understood.
“Their shit, you can say it Captain it doesn’t hurt we’re all big boys and girls here, yes I understand Captain. We will be careful around what we find. If we can study what we have found then perhaps we can figure out how long it has been here, who left it and what kind of people they are. I might be able to tell you what they had for dinner before dumping the rubbish.”
“Ok Doc, it’s you that gets to clean the mess.” Roughly three tons of rubbish, including the expected faces, were brought onboard the DropShip giving the scientists a mini-treasure trove to fall back on.
---
Nearly a week passed and still nothing further had been found in the system Symonds was ready to give up on their search of this area and move on into their secondary search area but Mazzarelli had persevered they had entered what could only be described as a dense area of rogue planetoids and large asteroids. While none of them had atmospheres many had deep canyons and cave networks any of which could have what he wanted. Laying in his bunk Mazzarelli was convinced he was on the right trail for a find in this system so their search would continue. “Mazzarelli report to the bridge, we have something you won’t believe” it was Symonds on the ship announcer.
Mazzarelli hadn’t in his fifty-two years ever dressed so quickly moving through the small four deck Stork-class DropShip. As an aerodyne DropShip the Stork was built like a massive cargo aeroplane with the top two decks dedicated to command and the crew quarters the third deck which carried passengers while the fourth deck was twice as tall as the others and was purely a cargo bay. When in space the ship flew on its belly so the deck remained as the deck for the crew and passengers making it easier to move around without needing to rearrange things.
Entering the Stork’s bridge, he found Symonds leaning forward looking at his screens, Mazzarelli read some of the displays but mostly it didn’t make much sense to him “Captain” he said announcing his arrival.
“Doctor” Symonds said smiling turning to face him “well you said we’d find something here. Take a look.” He said inviting him to look at the screens.
“I’m looking Captain, I just don’t completely understand what I am seeing, can you direct me?”
“Right there!” He pointed up at one of the roof mounted flat screens Mazzarelli stared at it for a moment and began to understand what he was seeing. “That Doctor is a drive plume of a small vessel, probably one hundred tons or so.”
“A fighter, a patrol or scout?”
“More likely a small cargo ship of some sort given its movement profile, they are moving a little under 2G nothing fancy just avoiding the rocks, like us” the same sensor operator who had answered his query before. “It probably can go faster than it currently is but they are in no hurry to go where they are going.”
“Can we talk to them?”
“We wanted you to be here before we did.” Symonds said “Doctor, if you please, you’re on.” Mazzarelli stood up straighter at that, as straight as one could in the cramped bridge before he spoke.
“I am Doctor Thomas Mazzarelli of the Alarion Fellowship of Associated Scientists; we have come to this system on a mission of peaceful exploration and we would welcome the chance to open peaceful relations with you.” He began intending on explaining who they were and their intentions
“That got a reaction! Engine spike they are accelerating.”
“Doctor, they go much past that we’ll lose them. But in this type of belt, they are risking losing something more than just us…”
“This is the captain, everyone buckle in and prepare for reorientation” Symonds announced over the ship wide intercom “doctor, take your seat, you have one more chance to calm this down.”
“To the pilots of the small ship we are not hostile we are purely here to open peaceful relations you don’t need to run from us.” He said pleading with them to slow down and listen to his words. As he spoke Mazzarelli was climbing into his chair as the Stork re-orientated into its normal flight mode with the ship’s main engines driving the vessel forwards. If the DropShip was going to be expected to make any special manoeuvre, they couldn’t do that in the transit mode.
“They are disappearing behind that rogue planet!” The pilot said a rogue planet was a planet which didn’t have a regular orbit of its own, it was a remnant from the system’s formation and now it drifted through the asteroid belt as one of its largest contacts. Part of their next search pattern would have been to explore the planet but this new contact had brought that search forwards.
“Bring us in close and begin scans. Weapons have them ready” Symonds said catching Mazzarelli’s eye “just in case Doctor, this is still your game, I just want to be ready we’re out here on our own.” The Santiago de Cuba spun slowly around one of the small asteroids as it did the ship rolled gracefully onto its back and down towards the planet.
“We have him! He’s gone into that canyon” the dark-skinned sensor operator said tagging the region on her console. On the other consoles of the Santiago’s bridge the canyon was lit up by the vessel’s sensors.
“Helm, slow engines to station keeping keep us in orbit of this rock and in range of that canyon but no need to waste fuel.” He ordered reaching over to other controls as the helm station began to change the orientation of the ship and the power being delivered to the engines. “All hands this is the captain prepare for zero thrust operations; all crewmen not comfortable with zero-g wear your slippers we don’t know when we’ll need to use the engines in a bit.” Symonds ordered his crew into action in rapid succession the ship went from being under trust to spinning in space and breaking to nearly no velocity at all. Now the ship was flying “backwards” but at a fraction of the speed that it had been previously using minimal trust to remain above the canyon the crew may feel the occasional jolt but for the most part they would not have the benefit of thrust delivered gravity for a bit. “What have we got Sujitra?”
“Lots of rocks” the young woman said catching Symonds look out of the corner of her eye “yup, lots of rocks…” she repeated “and some metal, some high concentrations of metal about three hundred metres inside. It could be natural but at that level of concentration I’d say we’re seeing some sort of landing bay.”
“Too small for us to fit in there. If we want to drive them out, we’ll need to bring some sort of landing craft from outside the system.” Symonds said “unless you can talk them out Doctor, we’re at an impasse.”
“To the people on the colony below this is Doctor Mazzarelli, you may not be aware of this but your world is in the heart of a nation known as the Lyran Commonwealth. This nation is ruled by the Steiner family and is known in the Inner Sphere as one of the Succession States…”
“Oh boy, we’re going to be at this for a bit.” Symonds noted hearing the doctor begin his history lesson.
“Maybe not we have movement from the canyon!” Sujitra called out from her station “two small craft similar but not the same as the previous models.”
“Doctor, have you had anything from them?” Symonds asked as the two craft rose out of the canyon. His DropShip was not heavily armed and against two modern aerospace fighters they’d have not chance, but he highly doubted that these craft were modern.
“No, captain”
“Fine, my turn” Symonds said flicking a switch on his control console shutting off Mazzarelli “this is Captain Wayne Symonds of the DropShip Santiago de Cube. My DropShip is not a craft built for an invasion but we can and we will defend ourselves if we are threatened.” He said watching as the two craft continued to approach. “Final warning, identify yourselves or be subject to defence fire.”
“This is Leutenant Julie Mertens of Vendrell to DropShip we welcome you to the home space of Vendrell and the last bastion of the Protectorate of Donegal.” The heavily German accented voice said coming through the radio system. “You are intruders into our space, identify the reason you are here.”
“Protectorate of Donegal?” Symonds said looking at Mazzarelli “Doctor?”
“A precursor nation to the Lyran Commonwealth. One of House Steiner’s founding members, the richest of them, where leaders of our nation were originally born. It hasn’t existed for nearly eight hundred years…” He began to explain but Symonds raised a hand to silence him.
“Leutenant Mertens the nation you claim to represent became a founding member of the Lyran Commonwealth almost eight hundred years ago. You have been cut off for a very long time.”
“We are aware, our colony and Rijeka are happy with our isolation. We do not need to be subjugated by your Commonwealth like the Donegal was, our ancestors close to create a life for themselves in the stars away from the bigger national government which was being created.”
“The people of Donegal led the Lyran Commonwealth. Archon Robert Marsden became the Commonwealth’s first Archon, his brother Alistair the second!” Mazzarelli blurted out cutting over Symonds before the captain could speak.
“The traitor led the new Commonwealth?” Martens asked back over the open channel “Santiago hold position.” The woman said and the comm channel went silent for several minutes. Symonds looked at Mazzarelli annoyed he had broken through.
“Sorry Captain, but these people descend from ancestors who thought their nation which was rich and prosperous was going to be subjugated and broken up by the other nations of the new Commonwealth. They left based on a lie and have been cut off from the rest of us for more than seven hundred years!”
“I was getting to that point Doctor, this is going to be a lot for them to take in.”
“Third contact rising from the surface!”
“Communication from lead ship.”
“This is Leutenant Martens we are sending a small ship as there is not space for your vessel within our landing bay. You are invited to send a delegation to Vendrell to speak to our leadership.”
“Doctor, looks like we’re going for a trip.” Symonds said to the excited looking doctor.
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An hour later the small craft carrying Dr Mazzarelli and Captain Symonds arrived on the asteroid colony of Vendrell. The small craft had been of the same design as the other two craft and had docked with the Santiago’s external docking port they had been escorted into the rear of the craft which was little more than a converted cargo space. The trip had been short the ship had landed on a landing pad which had retracted into a hanger below. They had felt the ship be pulled along the hanger floor by something as the hanger pressurized outside after several minutes their pilots entered the rear cabin through a small slide door and then the side doors of the small craft opened and a ramp extended allowing the four people to exit.
Mazzarelli and Symonds were greeted by the sight anyone would encounter if they entered a hanger of a military vessel or underground installation all of the walls were made of heavily worn metal and the area was a hive of activity. While they didn’t know if this was their only hanger Symonds could count seven of the craft similar to the three ship’s they had already encountered.
From deeper within the hanger a man wearing a grime covered black and grey coverall approached them he had a full head of greying hair and a greying beard he was easily in his early fifties and looked well for his age if a bit pale, probably due to the lack of natural exposure of sunlight. I am Administrator Daniel de Oliveira of the Vendrell Colony, welcome to our colony and the soil of the Protectorate of Donegal.” He said raising his hands openly to his side “my apologies for my appearance we had a maintenance issue which needed the hands of a trained operator.”
“Thank you for the welcome Administrator, I am Captain Wayne Symonds of the DropShip Santiago de Cuba and this is Doctor Thomas Mazzarelli of the Alarion Fellowship of Associated Scientists.”
“And you are from the Lyran Commonwealth?”
“Well less” Symonds answered the question simply.
“Our ancestors knew that one day the Commonwealth would expand to our shores. What is it the Commonwealth wants with us today?” Oliveira asked Symonds glanced at Mazzarelli who stepped forward.
“Mr Administrator, I do not know how far you think your ancestors travelled for the Commonwealth to finally reach your shores?” He asked carefully seeing a small crowd of about thirty people so far had gathered to see the visitors.
“Our ancestors travelled for approximately eighty years settling in this system in early 2420 after a critical part of their colony ship failed during transit stranding them here. They travelled far from the reach of the newly born Commonwealth and the external wars it was bringing to our lands.” He said loudly enough for the crowd to hear and be proud of their accomplishments. “While Vendrell and Rijeka are not the paradise worlds they hoped to find we have made them home.”
“I understand that and your Colony ship travelled through the Interstellar space between worlds?” He asked trying to establish exactly how they had arrived to live here.
“Yes, their ship accelerated for years and then when they ran into difficulties, they made a heroic effort to slow to a stop in this system.” Oliveira explained “our colony and Rijeka are the results of their efforts.”
“I don’t know how much you know of Interstellar travel Administrator?” Captain Symonds asked not waiting for a response “travel in normal space is significantly slower than using Jump technology and it does not travel nearly as far.”
“Yes, we are aware but our ancestors did not have the funds to move such a large population by JumpShip and they wished to move all of their supporters at once before other elements got to them. Their colony ship was the only option.”
“I can understand the issues they faced.” Symonds said “but because they used normal space travel instead of jump technology. Your people have moved a little under seven light years from Reese Station. While you have been independent and your accomplishments are your own, you are still within the heart of the nation known as Lyran Commonwealth.” He explained he could see the shock on the faces around them “now the Lyran nation is not coming here to enslave you. My ship is one of science and exploration, but what you all need to know is that you are as Lyran as anyone else even if it’s something you haven’t been able to be part of until now. And you could be in line for support from the nation’s leadership.”
“Something we can explore.” Oliveira suggested “talking of which would you like to see more of our home?” He offered and he began leading them of a tour of the facility which laid below. The top level was exclusively the hanger facility but below that there were twelve additional floors which sprawled out several kilometres in every direction housing a population of nearly twenty-five thousand. There were schools, hospitals and accommodation for all with many of the people who lived on the colony working in the maintenance of their home or on one of their satellite mining facilities.
While they were travelling Oliveira explained that Rijeka was similar to Vendrell but was nearly three days away through the asteroids and because of the size of the small craft it required several refuelling stops. The two colonies essentially operated entirely independently of each other but traded regularly for supplies and parts with members of the population occasionally choosing to settle on the other colony keeping their gene pools diverse. The news that outsiders from the Lyran Commonwealth had made contact swept through the two colonies quickly with many afraid of what the nation would do to their tiny “Protectorate” while others embraced the idea of being part of a grander nation and looked forwards to learning more about the nation their ancestors had run from.
Within weeks of the Santiago de Cuba’s arrival in the system and the return of their JumpShip a Lyran contact team is sent to the system with several cargo DropShips carrying additional supplies opening up the two colonies to the rest of the Commonwealth. The people on the DropShips brought stories into the colonies as well as resources opening up opportunities for their population elsewhere. The integration of the two colonies to the Lyran Commonwealth also brings taxes to the systems however because of their long isolation the Lyran government ensure they are introduced slowly. For Symonds and Mazzarelli their mission in the system is done initially Mazzarelli’s scientists were allowed to explore the two colonies learning a little about their culture before the Lyran contact team took over leading to their presence being addition to the needs of the project.
Border skirmish
Ziliang, Ziliang PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
14th May 3116
It was near the hour of midnight when the people of Ziliang realized something was wrong but things were far more advanced than they realized. Under the cover of night, the Capellan Confederation had arrived on the world with a reinforced battalion of troops which had one goal, eliminate the leadership of the world and sow chaos. The assault on Ziliang was part of a larger goal to unsettle the entire region as the Capellans made a play against their neighbouring succession state.
Their first goal on Ziliang was to target the Duke of Ziliang Marlin Alexander for death for years he had the First Federated Suns Armoured Cavalry on world to protect him but that elite unit was currently based off world with only the local militia unit to protect the duke. The so-called Chancellor’s Chosen Augmented Battalions were made up of mostly Stealth equipped BattleMechs and they had moved quickly breaking through defence lines to deposit numerous Battle Armoured assassins into the duke’s private residence. Having delivered his four Battle Armoured troopers to their target Sang-wei Lee Ji-sung sat in his Yamal BattleMech waiting for their return, this was a simple hit and escape mission and his sixty-ton Yamal, or Kangaroo, as the Battle Armour troopers nicknamed the design had been sent with a single mission to transport them in and get them back out.
The Yamal (Kangaroo) was a new BattleMech in the Capellan Confederation Armed Forces built at sixty tons it was capable of over eighty kilometres per hour and it was clad in thick stealth armour. The Mech had four medium lasers and a flame thrower as armament but its true asset was its armour, speed and jump jets. The Mech was designed with this sort of mission to get in unseen and to get back out before a defender could react. For this mission his unit had sent six of the Kangaroos each carrying four Battle Armoured troopers to target the duke.
Now that the Battle Armoured troopers were inside Sang-wei Lee Ji-sung sat and waited for their return the night sky on Ziliang was nice tonight there was a faint green colour coming through the clouds Ji-sung had no idea why that would be the case but he took it as a good sign. In his ten years serving with the CCAF he had served in many units but this was his first time leading an assault into the Federated Suns, his first of many. Suddenly there was signal from in front of the Mech and Ji-sung could see a Fa Shih suited trooper with an unconscious figure over their shoulder indicating for his attention.
The Kangaroo was designed to serve as a command Mech but that same facility could be locked out essentially as a cell and be used as a transport for those captured in combat. Ji-sung folded the BattleMech’s legs carefully under itself lowering the Mech’s profile to a near prone position he then flicked the toggle for the front hatch and the forward cockpit on the Mech opened. Unlike many BattleMechs with a Command Console feature the Kangaroo’s was located at the front of the Mech allowing for a prisoner to be loaded quickly into the Mech. The Battle Armoured trooper did not wait long and moved forward buckling his new passenger in place. From what Ji-sung could see she was a young woman in her early twenties still dressed in her bed clothing and wrapped in a robe. As the trooper buckled her in the pilot locked out the controls in the front compartment, he didn’t need her waking during the trip, he didn’t know who she was, the plan had not been to capture anyone. Once his passenger was buckled in the trooper withdrew from the front of his Mech and Ji-sung toggled the cockpit closed before bringing the BattleMech back to a standing position. On his main communication screen at the front of his cockpit Ji-sung could see a simple unspoken command “Go!”
Accelerating quickly Ji-sung ducked his thin BattleMech through the night streets of Ziliang while the Kangaroo weighed in at sixty tons it was not a wide BattleMechs both “arms” were more like shoulder stumps and the rest of the Mech was longer than wider with the forward mounted second cockpit and rear torso mounted jump jets. The guardian electronic counter measures suite and stealth armour combined to hide the black painted Mech from sensors but nothing could hide an eight-metre tall BattleMech charging through the city. The first patrol to see him were a pair of Sortek Mechanized Combat Vehicles which were most likely responding to the attack on the duke’s residence, their response at encountering an enemy Mech was typical and they filled the air with particle cannon fire trying to tag his Mech one blast of man-made lighting slammed into his Mech’s left torso while the other slammed into the building beside him Ji-sung took evasive action and turned his Mech to the right avoiding further fire heading down another street.
Whether it was the impact of the particle cannon or his evasive manoeuvre Lee Ji-sung’s passenger woke following the encounter with the two vehicles and she began to scream out of a mix of fear and anger. Lee quickly muted the intercom between the two cockpits, he didn’t need the distraction as they ran through the city streets. His sensors flashed up with another target a fast-moving BattleMech, he twisted his BattleMech’s torso to see if he could get a look of any targets first on his left and then on his right but nothing appeared before his Mech was hit by four tightly packed pulse laser blasts. Twisting his Mech back around he noticed it was a Gunsmith which weighed less than half the tonnage of his heavier Mech unfortunately its laser reflective armour would make his lasers far less effective against the target. Firing all four medium lasers into the target he saw that three hit their target but even with his successes due to the enemy Mech’s specialized armour he hadn’t even penetrated the Mech’s armour. He lunged the Kangaroo forwards trying to kick out at the lighter Mech, hoping to land a crippling blow, but missed the Gunsmith ran off firing its pulse lasers back at him. Lee Ji-sung wasn’t interested in trying to catch a faster light Mech instead he jumped the Kangaroo away from the lighter target more green pulse lasers filled the air but missed the flying Capellan Mech. His passenger continued to scream angrily at him as his Mech reached the top of its jump, she then continued to scream as they began to fall again. Ji-sung cut in the jump jets at the last moment softening the landing and the Kangaroo continued to run.
Unfortunately, the encounter with the Sorteks and then the Gunsmith had put him behind schedule at reaching his rendezvous point with their DropShips and now time could not be wasted. Landing Ji-Sung plotted a course for outside the city while keeping a look out for additional enemy targets his concentration on piloting the heavy Mech at speed resulted in Ji-sung missing the two Maten Scout VTOLs pass by his position fortunately the automated anti-missile system was ready and immediately engaged the incoming missiles from the two aircraft. Unlike the Gunsmith which Lee Ji-sung knew he could scare away with his Mech’s size the two VTOLs could pick away at his armour and report his Mech’s position to other enemy units meaning he had to do something about them. Stopping his progress rapidly he changed direction heading the opposite way from originally intended trying to throw off the two VTOLs. His passenger had quietened down and was not crying he wondered if she was resigned to her fate or if the heat in the cockpit had finally begun to get to her. Unfortunately, Ji-sung had no intentions of letting up launching the Mech into the air once more he triggered the four medium lasers on hitting one target with two of them, fortunately two medium lasers against a small VTOL were plenty and the small aircraft exploded, his anti-missile system engaged the incoming missiles cutting down several as fragments of the aircraft rained down on the streets below. The Kangaroo came down heavily and Lee Ji-rung ran the sixty-ton Mech back in the opposite direction. His sensors showed several enemy Mechs were combing the area looking for him, word must have been out, dodging further combat Ji-sung piloted his Kangaroo into the city river and waded towards the deepest part. From there he made slow but steady progress out of the Unfortunately, city limits his passenger had fallen unconscious during the engagement with the VTOLs so she was mercifully silent.
Once out of the city Lee Ji-sung piloted the Kamal back up onto the banks of the river. Behind him he could see the city was on fire as other members of his Chosen unit continued to harass Davion defenders. The battle for Ziliang was not over after tonight, it had just begun. He thoughts as he piloted his Mech the several kilometres south of the city back towards their DropShips. His Mech was waved directly towards their command DropShip a low to the ground Assault Triumph he was directed to lower his Mech to the ground position and open the front cockpit then his passenger was unloaded and he was directed to move again this time to the Mechbay for repairs before his next mission.
The battle for Ziliang was not over nor were the battles for eight other systems as the Capellan Confederation launched a mini-invasion of the Federated Suns testing out their new augmented battalion forces flooding the Ziliang PDZ with forces. For weeks the worlds would be contested between the Federated Suns and Capellan Confederation with four of the nine worlds Uravan, Weatogue, Ikast and Manapire falling into Capellan control and the others being contested.
News breaks a couple of days later that Duke Alexander of Ziliang had survived an attempt on his life but his daughter had been kidnapped by the invaders and that they were trying to use her as leverage over the duke as they continued to contest the world. With the news of his daughter’s abduction made public Duke Marlin Alexander has little option but to remove himself from the defence of the world hurting the AFFS defenders but maintaining their integrity. With the Duke out of the world’s defence structure the Capellans have little need for his daughter, a body of a young woman matching her description is found in the river three weeks after the battle for Ziliang once Capellan forces have been forced off the world. The cause of death is confirmed to be drowning and DNA records confirm that it was Duke Marlin Alexander’s daughter.
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Solaris Racing League Practice Event
Masako, Solaris VII
Independent Clan Space
23rd May 3116
The game world, Solaris VII, continues to spin and the competitions continue to amaze spectators year-round. The Solaris Racing League event which pitted pilots in single seat conventional fighter craft racing against the clock in its opening season of 3115 was ramping up for a second run and hoping to bring in bigger more profitable audiences than the previous year the organisers of the event choose to introduce additional obstacles. A majority of the racers do not think the new additions are necessary but agree to allow them to be introduced first in the practice race outside of the small town of Masako in the Draconis Combine dominated region on the world.
The practice race is a single lap of a famed area near Masako through a nature reserve which has been surrounded by some elevated spectator areas which are used by the teams to monitor their aircraft and make refinements in a controlled area. Due to the additional areas available some VIPs, members of the press and social influencers from Solaris are allowed exclusive access to watch the practice runs with the intentions of raising the Racing League’s profile.
Unfortunately, this increased scrutiny and additional obstacles makes a mockery of the completion two pilots who were attempting to show off in front of their supporters and the press crash into some of the additional obstacles while one pilot Mathilde Noir completely loses control of her Boomerang Spotter Plane and crashes causing a huge fireball which claim’s the pilot’s life. With these accidents far more public than the SRL would like the rest of the practice sessions are cancelled and the obstacles are removed from the remainder of the season so their introduction can be properly studied.
Border conflict
Thadora’s Land, Southwest Covenant
28th May 3116
The Cirincus Federation launch several attacks on the Southwest Covenant following the failure of a trade agreement. For months the Cirincus Federation had been trying to convince the Southwest Covenant and the Zeta Quadrant worlds that an alliance with the Federation would be beneficial for all three nations, unfortunately the two smaller nations saw these suggestions exactly what they were for, the Federation attempting to conquer them without firing a shot. Both Southwest Covenant leadership and Zeta Quadrant leaderships had rejected the Cirincus Federation trade deals and now the nation was attempting to bully them into submission.
In their attacks on the Southwest Covenant the Cirincus Federation deploy entire companies of WVR-9R Wolverine BattleMechs suggesting that they were able to manufacture the BattleMech and that they had been for some time. The inclusion of so many brand-new BattleMechs are enough for Cirincus to secure control over Thadora’s Land but they are forced off the other two worlds by the dedicated defences of local militia and supporting mercenary forces. In an effort to further bolster their available forces the Southwest Covenant send addition negotiators to Galatea Station and other hiring worlds looking for mercenaries.
The Kangaroo I found on Facebook and was created by Xander MacLeod. I'll post the design in the design section shortly it's used with the creator's permission.
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The Yamal/Kangaroo
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/battlemechs/yamalkangaroo-lkg-04/msg1796166/#msg1796166 (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/battlemechs/yamalkangaroo-lkg-04/msg1796166/#msg1796166)
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Man, you go in so many directions with this saga, DragonCat.
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Man, you go in so many directions with this saga, DragonCat.
I want to show as much of the Inner Sphere and Clans as possible, there are most definitely gaps and any time there's a suggestion I'll gladly take it
There's a piece from marauder coming up shortly exploring some internal Sea Fox fun and plenty more besides that really got the writing bug at the moment
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Minnetonka Hotel
Solaris City, Solaris VII
Independent Clan World
6th June 3116
It was 0402 on the morning of the 6th Jun 3116 and Reporter Sarah El-Sabbagh hadn’t had a wink of sleep, she was based three blocks from the massive Star League Stadium and it was the morning of the Forty-third Star League Games, the biggest game on Solaris schedule this week. The air was filled with the sound of low flying VTOL engines and the sirens as a group of Mao-Heng Charioteer ground vehicles sped down the street their police sirens screaming. “Ben, get them on camera then pan up and get the SWAT Carriers in the shot too. I’m going to prep the piece.” Her red Natasha Kerensky-styled hair flowing as she leaned out their hotel room window watching the convoy of vehicles pass by.
“How many calls is that today already?” Ben Tan asked leaning out the window with his Tri-vid camera capturing images of the Charioteers and the nearby VTOLs higher above there was a Cloud Nine Airship also patrolling the area Ben did his best to capture the massive delta winged craft on camera before it slipped back above the clouds. The Clan and Inner Sphere forces on Solaris had two of the thousand-ton support airships as part of their combined police and peacekeeping force rarely was it seen in public other than when they wanted it to be seen.
“At least four I’ve counted, it’s the Sixth of June, Ben everyone is jumping through hoops hoping there isn’t a repeat of previous years.” She said flipping her hair over each shoulder and opening the top button of her white shirt showing a little bit of skin didn’t hurt the ratings. She saw Ben looking at her for a moment “what? I’ve covered these games three times now, this has got to be the worse date of the year for them to hold these games, after the disaster in ‘74 they can’t afford another balls up.” She said “you got the shot?”
“I got it, we have no idea what the context of their trip is but I’ve got it.”
“Why else wake up the entire city?” She demanded with a knowing smirk, they city was on edge they were just reporting it, seeing Ben flick the switch on the camera she composed herself for a moment “ladies and gentlemen, my name is Sarah El-Sabbagh and we have just witnessed the fourth Police Call out in Solaris City in as many hours. While it has not been confirmed by authorities, we believe these call outs have been for scares over potential Sixth of June Terrorist Activities. With the Star League Games due to start in just a few short hours I’ll be staying on the pulse as we watch and pray that nothing befalls these games. I’m Sarah El-Sabbagh live from Solaris City on the Day of the Forty-third Star League Games.” She said she saw Ben cut the feed “good, cut that with your footage and upload it to the server we’re going to have a busy day ahead of us.”
“We don’t even have press credentials to get into the Stadium, the Clanners are clamping down hard on it this year even the Commission hasn’t been able to open up as much as they want.” Ben Tan complained he’d worked with Sarah for three years and he hated the Star League Games, he hated Solaris but they went where Sarah thought they’d get the best ratings looking to pick up the story that would make their careers and the games taking place on such an infamous date was too much to turn down.
The scares continued throughout the day continued with nearly the entire Police force of Solaris VII deployed in and around the Star League Stadium. Fortunately for the competitors, the spectators and the games organizers the games go on without incident with Dracois Combine Mustered Society Officer Tai-sa Kenji Shimura piloting a Hatamoto-suna Assault BattleMech winning the day over other competitors. Without access to the games and without a major story outside Sarah and Ben must wait for another story to earn them fame.
As the anniversary of the Sixth of June passes across the Inner Sphere there are several terrorist attacks claimed to have been committed by the infamous group but none are proven to be the case and all are on a far smaller scale than previously attempted by the group.
Final assault
Wolf City, Gallery
Halfway Province, Lyran Commonwealth
12th June 3116
As the sands blew their heaviest in a century above ground the Mountain Wolfs sat in their den on Gallery and awaited their fate. Unfortunately, the warriors who remained knew this time was coming, they’d known for several days and had made peace with it. “Lyran troops have entered the base! Lyran troops have entered the base!” The warning sounded constantly as a rumble rolled through the caverns as Lyran Commonwealth Commandos approached command.
“This is Star Colonel Daniela Wolf to all Moutain Wolf forces, offer no resistance. Lyran Commanders are to be welcomed to Gallery; we are not their enemy.” The most senior Mountain Wolf warrior said standing beside the command holotank, she had been wrong, wrong so many times today was the day she’d make things a little righter. Daniela Wolf had never expected to lead so many of her people nor had she ever expected to be here at the end of her Clan’s life, she knew that day was today and there was nothing she could do about it.
It didn’t take long for the lead Lyran Commonwealth troopers to reach the command complex of the Mountain Wolves. Barging into the complex fully armoured in their Grey Death Infiltrator Battle Amour Suits their under-arm gauss rifles and firedrake needlers covering the entire room. With these weapons the four lead troopers alone could wipe out ever man and woman in the command complex in a matter of seconds.
“By the order of General of Armies Sabine Steiner, you and all Mountain Wolf forces are ordered to stand down and surrender! ” The troopers screamed. "The Mountain Wolf Clan is charged with deploying a biological weapon against the Lyran Commonwealth."
“I am Star Colonel Daniela Wolf; I am ready to offer my Clan’s unconditional surrender to your forces.” She said raising her right hand up in surrender, weeks before the Mountain Wolves had stood as allies to those of the Lyran Commonwealth now she was faced with their weapons. She understood the challenge, since returning to Gallery she had learned of the Mountain Wolf scientists actions here and in the Commonwealth beyond it made her sick to her stomach.
“Where is Riko Danvers!” The lead trooper demanded not even bothering to introduce himself, at least Daniela thought he was a he the trooper had kept his armour sealed, not that she blamed him after what the Mountain Wolf scientists had done.
There was a genetic illness that had been striking the Lyran Commonwealth for months. It appeared to pick out genetic markers in victims nearly at random but in fact it was very well designed, and it had been designed here on Gallery by Riko Danvers and his other scientists. Daniela had been assigned to Tharkad assisting in the defence of the Lyran Commonwealth and she had not seen what Danvers and his cohorts had done to the people of Gallery, her people. In the months before releasing the illness on the Lyran Commonwealth Riko Danvers had tested it first here on the native population of Gallery and then on the Mountain Wolves based here. The formerly proud Clan was now sick and dying in the caves which the Lyran Commonwealth had gifted them. There was no known cure for this virus the only way was to allow it to run its course fortunately one thing she had learned on Gallery, the virus had a shelf life which she could offer to the Commonwealth.
“Where is Riko Danvers!” The trooper repeated the under arm needler almost twitching as he spoke.
“He’s gone!” She snapped angrily. “He and his allies escaped on a trader DropShip last week. The DropShip was supposed to be taking supplies to our troops on Krevci, it did not arrive. I do not know where he is.”
“Research papers! The damage he has done to the Commonwealth may be irreparable.”
“It is not irreparable” Daniela said through the tears that were running down her wrinkled face she felt like she had aged several years in the last few days alone after seeing the destruction that she had allowed Riko Danvers to wrought here on Gallery. “We cannot undo the damage that has been done, but I have learned that the virus has a shelf life. It needs to be quarantined until its life is over and once that happens it becomes inert. Do you understand time, time is what your people need, time will eliminate this virus to a horrible memory.” She said “we have learned this here on Gallery Riko Danvers released the virus here first and devastated our lower castes with it. Time has passed now and the virus is gone. Our troops that are off world have had nothing to do with this they are innocent of what has happened but we understand that our Clan must pay a price for what we have unleashed.” She said raising her left hand and placing what she held on the table in front of her. The item had two cubes one above her closed hand and the other underneath, she held the trigger in between these two cubes tightly. “I am going to give you time, Commander, time to get your men and women out of this complex before we pay Surkai for our actions.”
“You offered your surrender; how can you turn this on us with this?”
“Our people here have done too many wrongs to simply say sorry.” Daniela explained “our troops off world will continue to serve your people when we are gone. I have ordered them to stand down without resistance, and I have ordered our JumpShips to do the same. Our legacy will survive but these caves which we have made our home in must be cleansed of the stain of our failures.” She said looking down at the device “now go! Leave us to our path!” She bellowed
The Lyran Battle Armoured troopers ran as quickly as they could through the complex of caves with the Mountain Wolves watching as they left. Each member of the Clan had been informed of Danvers actions and informed about what he had done to their people as well, each of them had accepted the chosen path of Surkai.
“All Lyran troops have left the facility. Sealing entrance doors.” The announcer said over the speakers due to the hostile nature of Gallery’s surface almost all of Wolf City had been constructed underground in a huge complex of caves. Each entrance had massive airlock like doors which could be closed to seal off the city to the outside world it would take several minutes for all the doors to close. Daniela Wolf remained silent looking at the dead mans switch in her hands, the tears continuing to flow, she could hear others were also crying as well their failure as Clansmen complete. “All… all external doors are secured. Khan Wolf, we are all ready.” The announcer said sending one final message.
Star Colonel Daniela Wolf was not Khan of the Mountain Wolf Clan. Due to the tiny remains of the Mountain Wolves, and the sway of Riko Danvers, they had never elected a Khan instead trusting Daniela and their Scientists to guide them in their rebuilding. How wrong had they been? Daniela looked around the room “it’s been an honour.” She said releasing the dead-man’s switch. Near the bottom of Wolf City a series of nuclear armed explosives detonate within moments of Daniela releasing the switch. Within hours the last remnants of the Mountain Wolf Clan are wiped from existence as the nuclear flames burns through the entire cave. The explosives cause the caves which Wolf City had been built in to collapse crushing the remains of the city in thousands of tons of rubble.
Off of Gallery the three active Clusters of Mountain Wolf troops on Kreci, Gladius and Donegal are stood down by the Lyran Commonwealth forces with the warriors all cashiered out of service and their equipment seized. While none are found to be guilty of causing harm to the Lyran Commonwealth simply no unit wishes to have them in their units. Many of the warriors leave Lyran space or head to mercenary hiring halls in the coming weeks.
As the news spreads Clan Wolf which took in the other half of Clan Mountain Wolf and remade their Clan whole following the time of the Exiles strikes the Mountain Wolf name from their Clan’s Clusters and from their Clan’s remembrance. Dozens of the warriors of the former Clan face Trials of Grievance from other Wolves throught the coming months as the Crusader Clan attempts to wipe the legacy from its ranks, only a few of the warriors including Khan Cade Kell survive the series of Trials.
Internal Management
Kaumberg, Kaumberg Archonette
Alarion Province, Lyran Commonwealth
18th June 3116
Elsewhere in the Lyran Commonwealth there is a series of terrorist attacks claimed by the Democracy Now movement. Without support from Carlisle and Tharkad the Kaumberg Lord of Lords Erich Sheridan announces the formation of the Kaumberg Archonette which will allow him to combat the movement and maintain the correct defences to be used against the encroaching Fire Mandrill Clan. This change encompasses the entirety of the Kaumberg Theatre and adds in several worlds from the Alarion Province. Erich Sheridan cites the lasting Buena Khanate as the reason behind his move to bring more worlds under Kaumberg’s control.
Spirit of Northumberland (Endeavor-class Explorer)
Zebra, Deep Periphery
22nd June 3116
A flash of light and the long boxy Endeavor-class Exploration Vessel Spirit of Northumberland entered a system further from the Inner Sphere than it had ever been, even further than the research colony McEvedy’s Folly. The massive rectangular gravity deck which dominated the middle of the ship began to spin almost immediately. At the rear of the vessel the huge jumpsail began to extend from the WarShip’s hull.
In the command deck Captain Bruce Barnes sat and monitored operations “deploy small craft and the MacMahon they can assist us in bringing in the cargo pods. Have their Mechs deployed along our hull towards the cargo bay.” He ordered from the ventral spire at the front of the ship the vessel’s Fortress-class DropShip detached and took up a position off the vessel’s bow. Meanwhile three small craft accelerated away from the space craft.
“They are in position.” The sensor operator “The MechWarriors are ready.” Along the hull there were now six ultra-light BattleMechs waiting to assist the crew.
“Open cargo bay – cargo operators can leave the bay but should be no further than one hundred metres from the bay doors.” The captain said near the back of the ship several power armour equipped troopers exited the vessel and took positions waiting for the cargo launch. “None of us have done this before outside simulations so be prepared for anything.” He said briefing the crew “communications raise Cassion One, have them launch package one.”
Several hundred metres away a Cassion Payload Satelite opened its first cargo bay and deployed a fifty-ton cargo pod immediately the first small craft moved in and grappled the pod beginning to drag it towards the Spirit of Northumberland once it got closer the BattleMechs and Power Armour reached out to grab the pod. The first few missed the incoming pod but the next layer of Mechs caught the Pod and passed it onto several power armoured troopers. Immediately the next small craft grappled the next pod and began to move it towards the Spirit while the first small craft moved off heading towards the second Cassion.
These two payload satellites had been deployed in this system several months before the Spirit had even left the docks they were each filled with roughly one hundred-and-fifty tons of spare parts, fuel and supplies which would help the Spirit extend its mission by several months deeper into space. This supply point and one other Whisky would serve as “pit-stops” for the vessel one heading out and one returning home.
Asset redeployment
Marduk, Robinson PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
22nd June 3116
Intent on maintaining control over their salient into the Draconis Combine the Federated Suns Navy deploy the FSS Sortek, a Davion III-class Destroyer, and the FSS Lancaster, a Vincent Davion-class Destroyer, along with several support DropShips to the Marduk system on the Combine border. Their arrival comes as Warrior House Sortek, the wayward solders from the Confederated Suns, return from a raid into the Draconis Combine returning to their garrison position on Marduk with well over a company’s worth of Combine built BattleMechs.
On the planet’s surface the Warrior House’s fortification deep in the Buick Mountain Range is well under construction and is occupied by the unit and their support personnel, the facility is already capable of surviving a nuclear or orbital bombardment and is able to support nearly five thousand personnel should it be required. Deep within its training ranges the next generation of Warrior House inductees, which have been gleaned from across the Draconis March, are training ready to take their place in what is becoming a prestigious unit. Year on year more people flock to the world of Marduk looking to become associated with the Warrior House which has also led to a boon in the world’s gross national product. The world’s sole production facility Norse BattleMech Works continues to produce Griffin and Wolverine BattleMechs for the AFFS and has been working on a new variant of the Lynx BattleMech which would be produced under licence at the Marduk based plant.
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Excellent updates, and The Society is still clearly going strong, but blimey the end of the Mountain Wolves...that was a shocker!
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Excellent updates, and The Society is still clearly going strong, but blimey the end of the Mountain Wolves...that was a shocker!
I regretted not getting rid of them the honourable way and merging them completely with the Wolf Clan but I didn't think the Society cell would grow as well in the full Clan Wolf and I wanted Riko Danvers to have a little time (he's not done with yet). Instead it gave me a chance to play on the Lyran desperation for tech and to give them what they want. Unfortunately that backfired on them just a bit. I to-and-frowed about how to end their story with the virus having already ravaged their own population I thought this was the best way for them to go.
Into another month I've got plenty more twists and turns to come as we head into the second half of 3116.
Solaris Racing League
San Bardo Canyon, Equatus
Solaris VII, Independent Clan Territory
8th July 3116
“Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen, my name is Rick De Graff and for the last thirty years I have commentated on the various competitions that have taken place here on Solaris VII.” He said beginning the broadcast in his customary manner. “I stayed on with the Leagues when the Clans came to Solaris and have seen them go from strength to strength, even though the Clan culture is completely at odds with the life of Solaris they understand the need for a good fight.” He said using the same entrance he did to almost all his shows the truth was that when other left Solaris for other markets he stayed on Solaris VII and continued to watch and commentate on the events that took place around the planet. “Today we see the start of another Solaris Racing League season after a bumpy start we have eight pilots who are ready to race it out over three circuits here in San Bardo Canyon, Deep inside Dunnet Forest and in the Slanotov Industrial Zone. A planned fourth race circuit has been cancelled following the recent virus outbreak inside the Lyran realm.” He explained “it is also my duty to inform the spectators here on Solaris and beyond that since the revelation that the virus came from the Mountain Wolves, which our Archon harboured on the world of Gallery, a planned entrance from a team representing Clan Sea Fox has also been cancelled for this year which coincides with Santova the closure of the borders to all non-essential travel with all of our Clan neighbours.”
While many within the Lyran realm would welcome less Clan intrusions into their territory and no doubt more extreme elements of the nation’s populace would campaign for more extensive use of biological or chemical against their Clan enemies should it make them back off most did not understand that a significant amount of trade continued between the Lyran nation and their neighbours even during war time.
“We’ll bring you the play-by-play from high above every race in what promises to be an exciting season.” Rick De Graff continued “a planned introduction of additional obstacles to this year’s races was stopped following several crashes during practice sessions including one which resulted in the untimely passing of Pilot Mathilde Noir.” He said as a montage of Mathilde Noir’s acrobatic performances across Solaris VII were played. “Mathilde Noir was a former six-year veteran with the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns piloting her Boomerang Scout Plane throughout combat theatres in the Federated Suns Capellan March. She came to Solaris VII in 3101 and had acrobatic shows at dozens of venues across the planet including the opening Class B season of the Solaris Games in 3106. She was an early acceptance to the planned 3116 Solaris Racing League season. She will be missed by all of us at the Solaris Racing League Team. Please join us in a moment of reflection over our lost racer!” He finished as the Lexan Oceanic Series Luxury VTOL he used as a base was joined in an arrowhead formation by the eight remaining competitors for this season with four on each side of the Lexan.
“But we have another racing season to begin!” De Graff said after several moments of silence suddenly the eight fighters sped forward away from the Lexan splitting off in different directions with the previous season’s winner Jonnie Mjalby’s ASF-23 Protector Aircraft, which had been painted in three different shades of green for this season, pulling upwards and away from the Lexan.
Over the course of the net two days the previous season’s second place finishing pilot Koskova Yartseva piloting her HL-15 Hellfish Light Attack Fighter won the racing competition. Jonnie Mjalby was able to recover from a bad start and a technical issue to finish in third place while pilot Nicolae Carpathia piloting an MSF-42 Bluehawk Combat Support came second.
Northwind Military Academy
New Lanark, Northwind
Northwind EDZ, Star League Protectorate
12th July 3116
On a bright morning at the Northwind Military Academy nearly six hundred cadets stood waiting to begin their careers as soldiers and officers of the Star League Defence Force. As they waited in the early summer sun of Northwind a chilly eastern breeze blew across the parade ground. In front of the entire class the head of the Northwind Military Academy Brigadier General Michael Maguire stepped up onto a slightly raised podium. “Good morning cadets, welcome to Northwind and to one of the Star League Defence Force’s premier Military Academies. Here we will educate you beyond the academies you have attended before, you will learn the art of war and you will learn what it is to be a member of the Inner Sphere’s primary defence force against the Clan threat. We will teach you how to serve, and how to act as members of the Star League Defence Force.” He said introducing himself and the purpose of the facility, if any of them had thought anything differently, standing silently listening to the General about six rows back from the front near the centre of the formation of cadets stood seventeen Lady Janella Lakewood a native of the world of Fletcher, she stood at one hundred-and-seventy-two centimetres tall, she had long dark hair was tied back with a red ribbon, the colour which was on her family crest. Her father had served with the SLDF in the early days of its formation and now he and her mother owned a business and land on Fletcher. She could easily have lived a life as a noblewoman on Fletcher without ever going to war but she saw it as her duty to serve in the defence of the Protectorate and of the Inner Sphere, this was the first step towards what she planned to be a long career.
Border Dispute
Land’s End Prefecture, Pesht Military District
Draconis Combine
18th July 3116
In an invasion of the Draconis Combine Clan Lynx invades the systems of Korramabad, Lupine V and Pusht-i-rud leading the invasion are three of Clan Lynx’s newest WarShips which had been gained in a trade with Clan Nova Cat for natural resources off of worlds taken by the Lynx Clan. As the Lynx Clan originated from Clan Nova Cat it is of little surprise that the two Clans continue to have good relations. The three systems that had been invaded had been a hot-bed for Black Dragon Society operations for decades and so they had a heavy security and infantry defence force which were completely unequipped to deal with the invading Clan forces.
On Pusht-i-rud the defence forces were not ready to face Clan Lynx forces and felt abandoned by the DCMS command their commander Sho-sho Kiyochika Kane had called for aid but that aid had been rejected, Kane did not plan on laying down for the invading forces but with an Onslaught-class Assault Frigate and several DropShips inbound he knew a defence was impossible. The Sho-sho attended a known Black Dragon hideout with his top three infantry battalion leaders each of them was armed simply with the weapons of a samurai twin swords and a single sidearm weapon.
“You have a lot of nerve attending here Sho-sho Kane-san without your military forces” the black cloaked leader said looking at him. Sho-sho Kiyochika Kane was a gaijin not born of Japanese descent, he was originally from the world of Cosenza, for nearly thirty years he had served the DCMS as an infantry and armour commander and he’d given a lot for the Draconis Combine but because of his birth right he had not raised higher than Sho-sho and he had remained on the periphery border of the Draconis Combine. Now with a Clan bearing down on him his world was under threat and he did not have the weapons to protect them, he’d been abandoned by his commanders.
“I am here to offer your forces a truce.” He said “Clan Lynx has come to this system and we” he said raising his hands to the take in the other three officers “cannot offer this world a fighting chance of remaining independent.” He said looking at the figure “we have always dealt with your people fairly; I have kept the ISF from pursuing you when it could potentially cripple your people because of the good the Kokuryu-kai have done for the people of this world.”
“Your people have benefited as well Sho-sho, yourself included, we are well aware that you have benefited personally from some of our operations.”
“Hai, that is correct” Kane admitted “and now I propose we work together for the benefit of all of our people.” He suggested “I have three Infantry DropShips available to my forces we have space onboard them to carry additional personnel over and above what we have, but I have no access to a JumpShip.”
“And why would you think that we do?”
“I am well aware that your people have access to a Starlord-class vessel and that it frequents this system bringing in supplies. Thus far you have not brought weapons, or at least you haven’t used them, here so we have allowed it to continue.”
“This world is a supply world for our people who are elsewhere.” The cloaked figure said “we could come to an arrangement Sho-sho at least until we are clear from this system. We have nearly three hundred people who we must get off this world.”
“I can help transport perhaps a third of that on board our Nagumos.”
“And we have access to a DropShip as well.” The cloaked figure said “it is being prepared as we speak and will be ready to leave shortly.”
“Then it’s agreed we’ll evacuate this system and once we are somewhere safe, we will go our separate ways.” Kane suggested, the figure nodded their agreement.
Several hours later Kane’s three Nagumos were loaded up with his troops and several dozen civilians both from the infantry’s support units and from the Black Dragon Society. The three ships took off and met with the Kokuryu-kai’s Rose-class vessel and the four ships burned away from Pusht-i-rud as the Lynx Clan burned towards the planet which fell with barely a shot fired.
Aeroyard Gargain
Bearclaw, Kerensky Cluster
Clan Space
26th July 3116
The streets of Bearclaw had been bathed in blood for months as the Society tried and failed to stop Clans Blood Spirit and Goliath Scorpion return the world to Clan hands. Hundreds of thousands of the civilian castes had been killed as the Clans wrestled with the Society to break their hold over the world with hundreds of civilians taking up arms to contest the ownership of their home, all of them hoping that returning a Clan to control over the world would make life better than what the Society had made it. Despite the heavy losses the world had finally fallen to the Bear claw Clans and it had become the fourth planet in the Homeworlds to be liberated, unfortunately the two Clans currently holding out against the Society were steadily running out of resources as their numbers of trained warriors continued to dwindle.
One the grounds of Aeroyard Gargain a pair of Clan Blood Spirit painted Guardian II Ultra-light Mechs walked by a downed Society Haze OmniMech one of the last to fall in the production centre’s grounds. The Guardian II weighed in at fifteen tons and was being produced now in greater numbers than ever for use in garrison posts. It was covered in machine guns, with a Flamer and Medium laser for heavier targets. When the OmniMech had run out of fight the pilot had ejected wearing a power armoured suit and continued to fight against unarmoured infantry soldiers before finally being overrun. For the most part Aeroyard Gargain had been captured intact, the Society commanders had not caused physical harm to the facilities but their electronic technicians had left several computer viruses active leading to the production facility being useless until they were cleared. The goal was clear make the facility unusable by the Clans until the Society could return and retake the facility unfortunately their destruction on the world had been complete during the last offensive and with two WarShips protecting the world from space there was little chance the Society would be returning soon.
The destroyed Haze OmniMech is from Fan XTRO Society while the Guardian II I'm using comes from Patreon creator Bishop Steiner
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Another good update DC.
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Halas Manor
Amur, Oriente
District of Oriente, Free Worlds League
9th August 3116
In his stately home on Oriente the Grand-duke of Oriente Jonas Halas passes away in his sleep following a massive heart attack aged on fifty-one years old. Jonas leaves behind a nation which is being pressed from two sides with the Capellan Confederation and Magistracy of Canopus both continuing to cause border issues. At twenty-two years old Sophie Halas becomes the Duchess of Oriente and becomes one of the youngest leaders in the Inner Sphere for the last year she had served with the Eagle’s Talons Special Forces Command. To show she is fully in command and control of her emotions on the day of her father’s death she visits important defence contractor Etna Foundries and tours their sprawling Battle Armour production facility. As part of the trip, she is fitted for her own suit of Leonidas Battle Armour suit which she is gifted by the company at the end of the visit. While a Land-Air Mech pilot in the District of Oriente Military the gift from the company and walks away from the facility wearing the suit. Despite her obvious personal loss, the young woman is attentive to the owners of the factory and listens carefully while asking several questions. Meanwhile Sophie’s two brothers Javier and Ralph, both twenty years old, having previously been known for stealing two Persus OmniMechs for their private use causing multiple civilian deaths and millions in damage decide the best way to honour their father is to hold a wake for him in the most expensive restaurants located within Amur in which both brothers, and over one hundred guests get very intoxicated to the point of needing city security forces to break up the party.
Elsewhere in the Free Worlds League Clan Wolf launch several assaults against the District of Marik Wolf troops resecure control over the Preston and Zortman systems and launch a deep strike onto the world of Keystone shattering the First Marik Militia which was on the planet. In space a titanic battle is unleashed as four Clan Wolf WarShips including the Battleships Nicholas Kerensky and Werewolf taken on the Loyalty Battle Group headed by the MS Loyalty, a Thera-class Carrier. While the fighters from the Loyalty cause enough damage to cripple the Nicholas Kerensky and destroy the Vampire Wolf, a Lola IV-class Destroyer and the Swingfire, a York-class Carrier, the heavy guns of the Nicholas Kerensky and Werewolf are too much for the more fragile Free Worlds League vessels. Heavy laser and particle cannon blasts shatter the spine of the MS Loyalty and her three support vessels wiping out the Battle Group.
With the Wolves in control of the Keystone system and its valuable factories the naval battles inform both sides of various weaknesses their forces still have which had cost both of them massive amounts resources and thousands of personnel. The Wolves rely too heavily on their four large Battleships to carry them to victory neglecting their aerospace fighter and DropShip forces. While the Free Worlds League Battle Groups are simply too small to hold back a dedicated Clan threat and too weak to stand toe-to-toe with the larger Clan vessels.
Border Raid
Varna, Glasgow Commonality
Capellan Confederation
13th August 3116
What was supposed to be a routine border raid on behalf of the Free Worlds League had turned heavily against the Wyld’s Jokers when a particle cannon blast from an unknown BattleMech design had impacted the head of Colonel Adam Wyld’s BattleMech and incinerated him. Now the unit was under fire from three directions and they were being herded in a direction. In her customized Ryoken II BattleMech Tassa Kay did not like being herded, she had been born a Wolf, she hunted her prey she did not follow direction.
She had come to the Free Worlds League with a desire to hunt Clan Wolf but Wyld’s Jokers had been sent against the Capellan Confederation with a promise that they would meet Clan Wolf after the “routine” raid. The difference was when they had arrived on Varna, they’d been met by an unexpected regiment of Capellan troops including an unfamiliar class of light BattleMech. The BattleMech looked like a slightly enlarged Locust with the back canted leg over a boxy torso. One arm ended in missile pods while the other had a longer barreled plasma weapon. The first four Mechs had fallen quickly however they had been replaced with more supported by several vehicles Tassa had noticed, too late as it had turned out, that some of the Mechs carried different weapons configurations with heavier weapons on some and stronger electronic signals on others. It was a new OmniMech design she hadn’t come across before, not that she expected to know all Mech designs, but now she was more curious firing a double volley of short-range missiles into one of her targets twelve short range missiles launched from the streak launchers and consumed one of the unknown OmniMechs in fire the Mech didn’t weather the fire well and fell in a crumpled heap of broken metal.
Twisting her Mech’s torso she followed a San Ku Chu tracked APC. Aiming at the APC’s side she kicked into the side of the tank tearing open the armour and crushing the vehicle’s tracks. She followed up with a pair of medium laser blasts burning the inside of the vehicle incinerating the crew. “We are going through the middle!” Tassa called out stepping forwards a Hellspawn BattleMech triggering the left torso particle cannon the man-made lightning blast crossed the short distance in moment slamming into the side of the Mech forcing it backwards as metal and weapons melted under the force of the blast. She then added a set of short-range missiles into the target causing further explosions all across the medium Mech one of the missiles penetrated the armour causing an ammo explosion within the forty-five-ton BattleMech’s body the arm of the Mech exploded outwards as armour and components flew from Hellspawn. The Mech’s engines went into a rapid shutdown cycle as the engine failed and tried to preserve itself.
“Jokers on me!” She said jumping her BattleMech into the air she triggered a particle cannon shot against a Catapult which was holding back the blast washed over the Mech’s left leg before it returned fire with twenty long range missiles. The sixty-five-ton hunched forward BattleMech was designed to bombard targets with long range missiles launched from its two over shoulder mounted launchers, a flight of missiles flew towards the Ryoken II with several of them slamming into it as the BattleMech came in for a landing. Not missing a beat Tassa Kay accelerated her Mech into a run and ran at the enemy BattleMech firing both medium lasers and a particle cannon as it went. She added missiles in as she closed and even though it turned the Ryoken II’s cockpit into a furness she was overjoyed to see the results on the Catapult which laid in a ruin at her Mech’s feet. Behind her several of the Jokers had broken through Capellan lines and were now helping other break through and escape.
The Wyld’s Jokers had been hurt by the battle and victory was clearly out of the question but Kay had hopefully saved their command which would give them a chance of another battle and another victory elsewhere. Standing clear of Capellan lines Tassa Kay watched as the Jokers continued to break through the trap that had been sent from them. Instead of continuing to run from the battle she targeted the Capellan Mechs with her two particle cannons scoring several long-range hits crippling a couple of targets, she was glad to see several of the Jokers who had escaped joined in the counter-attack. As the last of the Jokers fought their way clear Kay opened a channel to the surviving members of the unit “volley-step counter movement” she said she couldn’t bring herself to say the word withdrawal if there was ever a question about what she had said no-one voiced it instead the entire line of Jokers fired their longest ranged weapons then stepped backwards before firing again. This movement and fire repeated for nearly twenty minutes before the Capellans wisely choose to withdraw allowing the Jokers to hold the field and recover any fallen pilots before escaping the world.
Tekenotuji (Star Lord-class JumpShip)
Land’s End, Land’s End Prefecture
Military District of Pesht, Draconis Combine
22nd August 3116
The Kokuryu-kai owned Star Lord-class JumpShip Tekenotuji had been turned away from the system of Multan by DCMS commanders despite Sho-sho Kiyochika Kane vouching for the vessel and stating that their DropShips had barely escaped the Clan Lynx advance. The Lynx forces were less of a concern for the defenders of Multan due to the presence of a squadron of four Nekohono’o Assault Ships each armed with anti-WarShip Kraken Telescopic Capital Missiles. Kane had been confident when he had seen the ships that his people could help defend this world but the planetary governor and military commanders had agreed that there were was not room for Pusht-i-rud refugees and criminals and the naval forces had kept them at their JumpShip.
From Multan they had jumped again this time to the Prefecture capital Land’s End looking for a more accommodating commander unfortunately they found Clan Lynx had arrived to contest ownership of the system with an Anna Rosse-class Battle-cruiser and a Sovetskii-Soyuz-class Heavy Cruiser shooting down the DCS Sunzunami, a Kirishima II-class Cruiser, over the planet. “Evacuate the civilians onto this JumpShip and your DropShip. I will take the infantry in system and assist our forces.”
“You will be wiped out Sho-sho Kane.”
“We are still Draconis Combine warriors, our comrades are on that world, we must assist them.” He countered as another alarm sounded in the Star Lord’s compact bridge. “What is that?”
“An emergence signature another ship has arrived at the Zenith point Invader-class… belonging to Clan Lynx.”
“Could they detect us?” Kane asked despite not having rank over the Kokuryu-kai crewmen they were deferential to him and answered quickly.
“They will within moments they are deploying what looks like three Union-class DropShips all are C-type upgraded versions of the class.” The crewmen answered naming the Clan upgraded version of the DropShip class. The crewmen were little more than merchants without a uniform in sight Kane felt strange and out of place.
“Then we have our own problems” Kane said “continue the evacuation of the civilians from my DropShips we will deploy and keep them at bay until this JumpShip can jump clear.” He said reaching beyond the crewmen triggering the JumpShip’s communication array “this is Kane all civilians are to evacuate DropShips and board the Tekentoji. There is three Clan Union C-class DropShips deploying from a JumpShip at the Zenith point we must hold them off until the Tekentoji is able to jump clear. Land’s End is a contested system I will remain on the JumpShip to coordinate our defence.”
Over the next hour civilians and non-essential support personnel evacuated the DropShips while the three Clan Lynx DropShips began a slow burn around the star towards their location. As they approached the three Nagumo-class DropShips detached and began to approach them while the Rose-class DropShip also detached but remained beside the Star Lord in a defensive position.
As they approached each other both sets of three DropShips unleashed massed waves of long-range missiles supported by lasers and gauss rifles. The Clan DropShip commanders obviously thought that honour was important with each DropShip targeting a separate vessel while the three Nagumo’s targeted a single Union C. While that did mean all three of Kane’s DropShips took hits it meant a concentration of fire blew through the nose armour of the leading Union C and exposed its internals to damage. Explosive decompression's ripped through the vessel and it fell out of the formation as they approached.
To their credit the two remaining Union Cs continued their approach despite what had befallen their comrade hammering the two Nagumos as they accelerated past. At close range the Nagumos opened up with their close-range armament of short-range missiles and heavy autocannons causing more heavy damage to the two enemy vessels. Instead of turning to engage the Nagumos as they turned however the two Union Cs continued to burn towards the Tekentoji and its defending Rose. “Hoxa continue to target board and capture if you can, Kidafore and Kubara turn and assist Vittorio!” Kane ordered sending one of his three Nagumos after the enemy JumpShip hoping to bring them one extra prize. “Vittorio hold!”
As the two damaged Union Cs approached the single Rose approached them to contest the assault immediately engaging with its long-range lasers and particle cannons causing heavy damage on one of the approaching Clan Lynx vessels. “Why no missiles or gauss rifle?” Kane asked the Kokuryu-kai crewmen who remained silent. He had expected a full assault from the vessel. As they closed, he saw the lasers and particle cannons in action again along with multiple close-range lasers and pulse lasers. The firepower was enough to burn through the second Lynx DropShip knocking it out of the fight but Kane was angry he’d hoped that the Rose could hold the two ships at bay long enough for the Nagumos to close.
“You have no ammunition for the gauss rifles and missiles!” He said accusing the Kokuryu-Kai commander Shimatani Yulchiro “you played a bluff!”
“Sumimasen Sho-sho Kane we needed something to counter your ships” the older man said as the two Union Cs pounded the Rose as they flew past.
“Prepare for incoming damage!” Kane ordered watching as his two Nagumos finally opened fire on the two Lynx vessels with long range missiles and lasers targeting the rear of the two ships. Unlike their first past the two Nagumos targeted a separate vessel looking to cripple both ships engines in response the two Union Cs turned their noses back towards the charging Nagumos.
“They are breaking so they can deploy Mechs!” One of the crew called out.
“They will not get that chance open bay four, all units are to fire at will!” Kane ordered further along the hull of the Star Lord a cargo bay opened and Kane’s infantry wearing spacesuits had set up support weapons to target the incoming Union C causing heavy damage to the two Union ships. The two Union C’s rear weapons returned fire targeting the Star Lord’s cargo bay. Kane grabbed one of the handrails as the lightly armoured took damage.
“You have doomed us Kane!” Yulchiro screamed angrily as decompression alarms sounded in the Star Lord’s control room.
“No, I haven’t, I bought us time” Kane said as the two Nagumos opened fire with massed weapons which burned through both remaining armour on both DropShips knocking them out of the fight. As they did the Lynx JumpShip jumped clear of the system escaping now that the three DropShips had been knocked out. “This is Kane begin boarding operations on all three DropShips eliminate the crew, capture what you can.” Kane ordered his infantry DropShips all three Unions would potentially have Clan BattleMechs or Battle Armour which his people could use. The crew onboard the three ships could still put up a fight but he had nearly a regiment of soldiers to contest control over the ships.
Over the course of the next hour Kane’s troops secured the wreckage of the three Union C-class vessels. As expected, the surviving crews onboard the vessels put up a fight and took several of his infantry troopers with them but the battles were decided as they began. On the first Union C which had been knocked out of the fight some of the fire from the Nagumos had blown through the Mechbay and destroyed all fifteen Mechs, their MechWarriors inside their BattleMechs. The entire ship and the crew were a lost cause with a small number of infantry weapons all that was worth salvaging from the ship. On the other two ships however, there were far greater prizes several of the weapons on the DropShips themselves were salvageable as were six of the BattleMechs on one of the ships and eight of the BattleMechs from the second ship. Fourteen Clan BattleMechs it was just a shame Kane had no trained pilots for the Mechs but it was a start. None of his Nagumos were capable of carrying or deploying BattleMechs but the Rose was at least able to carry them. Following the performance of the ship in battle however Kane had insisted that an entire company of his infantry were also deployed on the ship essentially giving him full control over all of their ships. With the Lynx forces taking control over Land’s End, they had no choice but to jump again from Land’s End and look for another safe harbour.
Counter assault
Capellan Confederation/Federated Suns border
27th August 3116
In response for the assault on Ziliang and the worlds around it the Federated Suns launches a near immediate counter attack with multiple mercenary and house commands sent to the region. Immediately these units reinforce Ziliang and the worlds that are confirmed to remain in Federated Suns however the Capellan March’s intention is to go far beyond that. On the morning of the 27th three Caliburn-class Battle-cruisers along with dozens of assault and troop carrier JumpShips jump into the systems of Uraven, Ikast and Westogue intending on liberating all three systems with a display of firepower. The Federated Suns remains powerful despite recent conflicts with House Kurita, and Clans Nova Cat and Snow Raven and has one of the strongest Navies. The Caliburn is a relatively new design but with no immediate naval threats the Federated Suns sees an opportunity for victory.
Unfortunately for the AFFS the Capellans had been waiting for their counter attacks. As part of their conquest of the three systems they intentionally took all three HPG stations within minutes of the arrival of a liberation force in the systems a message was sent to Capellan High Command and a counter force was launched. As the DropShips were launching from their JumpShips in each of the systems a Mandarinn Battle-cruiser and Shoung Bi Shou-class Corvette along with their own assault ships arrive in the system to assault the Federated Suns naval forces.
In both the Ikast system and Westogue the Federated Suns liberation forces including both Caliburn-class WarShips, the FSS George Hasek and FSS Morgan Hasek-Davion, being destroyed by Capellan fire. The Confederation WarShip Elia’s Promise a Shoung Bi Shou-class vessel is also destroyed in the fighting but without WarShip support the mercenary commands Beowulf Rangers and Ravannion’s Redemption are both shattered in space along with the Federated Suns line regiments the Eleventh Syrtis Fusiliers LCT and the Third St Ives Lancers LCT with a few survivors making their way to the planets in those systems to join resistance movements but for all intents and purposes they are ineffective commands.
The battle in the Uraven system however takes another turn the FSS Invincible, the Sixth Syrtis Fusiliers RCT and Eighth New Avalon Guards RCT turn on the two WarShips in the system with many DropShips all but abandoning all hope of reaching the planet while the naval units are present. With BattleMechs and Battle Armour dropped directly onto the hull of the CCSS Wu Zetian is rapidly overwhelmed as the Mandarinn-class Battle-cruiser’s weapons are destroyed by units on its very hull. The supporting Shoung Bi Shou-class vessel is brushed aside by the Invincible as the two “surprise” attack is turned back on them. With the Sixth Syrtis and Eighth New Avalon heading towards the planet Uraven is quickly returned to Federated Suns control.
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Brutal entry
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A hugely delayed update
Trial Grounds
Scientific Sector, Andrey
Tukayyid, Independent Clan Territory
9th September 3116
The PHX-HK2 Pheonix Hawk Land-Air-Mech converted into BattleMech mode as it came in for a landing on the fields in front of the testing facility on Andrey. The scientists had been working for months on a new Land-Air-Mech for use by the Clans. So far, they had tested many different configurations but they had been unable to get a design to work with an Extra-Light Engine nor with the advanced armours favoured by front-line Clan BattleMechs. Today’s test of the Pheonix Hawk, an Inner Sphere machine, tested a different technology an advanced type of Extra-Light Gyroscope much like the same technology developed by the Inner Sphere. Like the inner sphere technology that preceded it the new Clan technology split the gyroscope into two modules locating each in one of the side torsos.
“MechWarrior Avisto, how do you find the new technology?” Scientist Kojiro asked using a small hand-held radio.
“Good Scientist, the gyro works perfectly well but seems a little more unstable in Mech-mode than others. Quiaff?”
“Affirmative MechWarrior, thank you for your feedback.” He replied “bring the Mech into the bay, we have another model ready for testing tomorrow.”
“A Clan one I hope” Avisto responded as he moved the Land-Air-Mech towards the Mechbay Avisto was an old warrior by Clan standards in his late forties but he still desired what all MechWarriors desired, the best of technology and to fight in battle.
Peacekeeping Intervention
Disputed Territories, Capellan March
Federated Suns/Capellan Confederation
15th September 3116
Following heavy Capellan Confederation raids against Federated Suns territories and counter attacks by the Federated Suns Protector-General Devlin Stone fears the fighting will spread into his small Kittery Prefecture and chooses to intervene. In an effort to end the fighting closes to his border Stone deploys Kittery’s First and Second Regimental Brigades along with six WarShips to the Indicass and Hustaing systems.
Both the First, Stone’s Lament, and the Second, Stone’s Liberators, were six regiments in strength with the WarShips supporting them the SLDF troops quickly gain the upper hand against the forces on both worlds securing command of space and the skies over the worlds within hours of their arrival. On Hustaing the SLDF forces shatter the Twenty-second and Twenty-Third Liao Lancers, the Hustaing and Grand Base Regiments of that brigade, they then force the Federated Suns hired Donnel’s Commandos Mercenary Regiment to power down their weapons. The mercenary command were informed by the SLDF forces that they would be re-repatriated back to the Federated Suns once both worlds had been secured. Despite this easy victory the population were not entirely pleased with the heavy presence of SLDF troops on the streets and there were heavy protests for three weeks following their arrival. Slowly however the population began to realize the the SLDF forces had been ordered to allow them to peacefully protest and that their voices were being heard, something that rarely happened under Capellan rule. Although he had sent them as “peacekeeping” troops Protector-General Stone kept the forces in place essentially annexing control over Hustaing. With the WarShips and troops in place and a content population the Capellans had little choice but to accept the SLDF’s rule.
While on Indicass Stone’s Liberators were welcomed exactly like that as liberators by the besieged local militia forces. The Capellan raiders had resorted to using artillery strikes against civilian areas when the battle had not turned their way. The Liberators force of heavy BattleMechs quickly ran down the Capellan forces and won control of the battlefield. As the Liberators had come when the people needed them the SLDF troops were paraded through each large settlement they visited and welcomed as heroes. Within weeks of their victory Indicass held a referendum and petitioned to join the Kittery Prefecture as a full member of the Star League’s Protectorate Worlds Initiative a move which was completed by the end of 3116.
Landing Procedure
JP-M-774, Periphery
23rd September 3116
Continuing their retreat from the Clan Lynx invasion and reeling from being turned away by the DCMS Kane had led his people into the Periphery. Their JumpShip Tekenotuji, damaged in the previous encounters, had finally given up in its fight leaving them stranded in a system which had what appeared to be a single habitable planet. The still functional sensors detected what appeared to be the wreckage of a large JumpShip in orbit around the world and Kane had ordered the DropShips to head into the system hoping that they could salvage parts from the JumpShip or repair it. At the very least he hoped that the world would be a haven for them to shelter on.
Now they were approaching the planet and it was clear that the JumpShip was a wreck with a very low possibility of repairing it, they could perhaps take parts from the ship but that would have to wait. “Land us on the planet we can find somewhere to shelter our people.” Kane ordered “once we have secured out LZ we can send up a team to check on the JumpShip maybe we can salvage something.” He suggested, none of his people or their Kokuryu-kai questioned his orders. Since the discovery that their Rose-class DropShip had no ammunition for its primary weapons Shimatani Yulchiro and the others had been quieter than before with their objections.
The four DropShips hit the atmosphere minutes apart with each of the three aerodyne-type Nagumos coming in belly first while the spheroid Rose-class Vittorio entered with its engines facing the atmosphere. Once in the atmosphere they were treated to a bright world during its day cycle, and found a cold but breathable planet with wildlife detected by the DropShip’s sensors.
“Food for our people to hunt, and plenty of shelter in those caves…” Kane began to suggest before his voice trailed off “what is that?” He asked suddenly seeing something new on sensors “bring up a visual feed!” He ordered the crew onboard the DropShip Kidafore as they followed his orders the image appeared on a small screen and Kane had to lean over their shoulders in the compact bridge to see the screen. “Forget the caves, we will use those ruins. Direct the Vittorio to find a landing area and find the same for ourselves.” He said seeing the images on the screen there appeared a large facility with a ruined HPG-styled dish above it. The facility had clearly been at the centre of a large battle at one point, it looked completely abandoned and while some of the buildings were in a state of collapse others appeared sturdy enough to provide shelter.
He turned to Shimatani Yulchiro “it appears to be some sort of observation station. My infantry will scout the buildings and secure a perimetre. Your people are to remain onboard the Vittorio until we give the all clear signal.”
“Our people are trained fighters Sho-sho Kane.” Yulchiro complained
“I’m sure they are but my people have been trained to shoot those they do not recoignize when in hostile situations. Until we secure this area this world is a hostile place. Your people will stay in their DropShip understood?”
“Yes, Commander Kane, it is understood.”
“Good, I must join my people.” He said finally then he began issuing orders to his infantry battalions. Two of them would deploy in defence of the DropShips while they were grounded while the other would deploy into the ruins and secure a sufficient amount of shelter for their civilians.
The operation took the better part of a day to secure enough buildings for their people to shelter within in. It was into the night before the civilians got out of the cramped conditions on the DropShips and into the buildings. If the day was cold the night was colder while fires were set and barricades were built to shelter the people from the wind it was still colder than comfortable. Kane ordered them to “tough it out tonight and in the morning, they would look to bring portable generators from the DropShips to try and get the facilities back online.” One thing his people did establish was that this facility had once been a Stellar Research Facility run by the original Star League Defence Force, it had been abandoned during the First Succession War when the staff based there had realized they had been left behind by the Exodus Fleet. One of their JumpShips had broken down and been left in orbit.
Pirate Hunting
Kaumberg, Kaumberg Archonette
Alarion Province, Lyran Commonwealth
29th September 3116
Using power taken under the Kaumberg Protocols Archonette Erich Sheridan of Kaumberg declares the Democracy Now movement to be terrorists and pirates and with that designation declares them to be enemy combatants of the Lyran Commonwealth. No longer will it be a civilian law enforcement matter but a military one. With that he orders the six Fesnyng Rapid Response Units deployed within the Kaumberg Archonette to begin offensive operations against the movement. Each of the Fesnyng units were designed to move around a region in response to a threat independently of others and had their own DropShips and JumpShips attached. All six of the units also had integral intelligence units, infantry and armour should they need it to face any type of adversary. Within hours of the order all six units had either engaged in raids against suspected Democracy Now elements or were moving station to engage them. While deploying military forces into built up residential areas was an extreme method of dealing with a threat in Erich Sheridan’s words Democracy Now had shown they were willing to take extreme measures to resist House Steiner’s rules so House Steiners forces would respond in kind.
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Nice story entry! WOah...new fix for the LAM's gyros. Nice. Will there be a separate entry for the technology?
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Can't see it being to much longer before the 'great' houses start to take offence at the protectorate nibbling worlds from them and start pushing back.
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Can't see it being to much longer before the 'great' houses start to take offence at the protectorate nibbling worlds from them and start pushing back.
I thought I added the LAM Gyro but it's been a while I'll have a look at my notes before posting further
Can't see it being to much longer before the 'great' houses start to take offence at the protectorate nibbling worlds from them and start pushing back.
Well... the Americans take the 5th? When they don't want to say something I'm a Scot but I'll borrow it and keep zipped :-X
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Well... the Americans take the 5th? When they don't want to say something I'm a Scot but I'll borrow it and keep zipped :-X
Tease :D
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Tease :D
Bigger tease my next update will show you where one man's mind is going in regards to that
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Bigger tease my next update will show you where one man's mind is going in regards to that
Ooh....
No pressure but hurry up then ;)
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Excellent updates and action as always!
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Ooh....
No pressure but hurry up then ;)
You asked so I'll deliver, you like fireworks? I do :thumbsup: time to set some off in a few places all at once.
When writing this I realized I hadn't posted the Aumaku-class Destroyer so I'll try to sort that.
Khanate Conflict
Spica, Sea Fox claimed system
Federated Suns
2nd October 3116
On the Sea Fox claimed trade world of Spica two Khanates of Clan Sea Fox come into conflict when the Thirty-sixth Cruiser Cluster of the Fox’s Whelps Khanate challenges the elite Diamond Skate of the Deathstrike Khanate. Initially a disagreement over a trade deal quickly escalates to a fully fledged battle between a Trinary of each of the Khanate units, while this should have been the end of it with the Diamond Skate having more elite warriors and front-line technology over the second-line units of the Thirty-sixth.
Unfortunately for both units Star Colonel Shannon Vewas of the Thirty-sixth calls in a second Trinary to even things up prolonging the conflict. Word of this breaking of honour quickly spreads and a second Trinary of the Diamond Skate entered the battle on their own initiative and engaged the Thirty-sixth’s reinforcements before they could crush what remains of the Diamond Skate.
With the fighting on the planet escalating quickly things go from bad to worse for the Sea Foxes as rival aerospace fighter pilots from rival WarShips beginning calling out challenges against their opposite numbers from to opposing Khanate. If calmer heads had prevailed the commanders of the two WarShips would have contacted each other and agreed that enough was enough but they did not and the misery of Clan Sea Fox in the Spica system continued as the WarShip Triad, a Halcyon-class Cruiser, of the Fox’s Whelps Khanate and the Peuo, an Aumaku-class Destroyer, of the Deathstrike Khanate turned on each other.
WarShip battles between single WarShips tend to be short affairs especially when one of the vessels is bigger than the other. While the Halcyon-class Cruiser is a cruiser in name only at six hundred thousand tons the WarShip has a heavier armament and armour than the lighter Aumaku-class Destroyer and the Peuo is ripped open a mid-ships by the Heavy Naval Gauss Rifle and heavy autocannon armament of the Triad. While the Triad does attempt to save members of the Peuo’s crew the destroyer itself is a right off and the wreck’s multiple explosions light up the night sky as the Peuo's ammunition reserves ripped the ship apart on Spica below and shock the ground troops into calling a cease fire.
Border Skirmish
Vega District, Rasalhague Dominion
9th October 3116
Timed almost to perfection forces wearing the colours and flag of District of Dieron invade Konstance, Eltain, Shimosuma and Tsukude. The Dieron forces strike quickly and efficiently rapidly using aerial dominance to force the Rasalhague Dominion forces on the defensive. In each case the Dieron forces strike from converted cargo ships and in each case their aerospace fighter pilots first strike is against Rasalhague Dominion barracks facilities using fuel-air explosives to flatten the defensive forces.
The Dieron attacks appear to be intended as raids instead of battles of liberation their aim is to sow chaos and unsettle the populations of the worlds informing them that this is the first of many battles and that Dieron would return to liberate them. On each of the worlds the District of Dieron forces fall back and disappear almost as quickly as they came having decimated the Rasalhague garrison forces and spread their promise of liberation and that Akira Kurita’s rule will soon return to these worlds.
On Shimosuma the District of Dieron forces, tentatively identified as Forty-second Dieron Regulars, are surprised by the arrival of a second cluster of Rasalhague Dominion forces who block their path of retreat, low on ammunition and beginning to fall due to damage to their machines the Forty-second have no chance of escape. Instead of allowing their warriors to be captured their converted Mule-class DropShip unleashes a volley of capital missiles against the ground forces position. At least one of these weapons has a nuclear warhead, the entire Dieron force and 115th Strike Cluster of the Rasalhague Dominion is wiped out in a nuclear fireball.
Retirement ceremony, Medusans WarShip John Jellico (Quixote-class DropShip Tender)
Fenwick, Star League Protectorate
11th October 3116
Hanging in formation with their first Quixote-class vessel the Forrestal the recently renamed John Jellico maintained its position with the other Medusans forces. The John Jellico had been delivered a month before under the name Wasp but following the passing of the former commander of the Medusans Admiral Sandra Harrington ordered the vessel renamed in his honour. As it turned out it it was her last command of her unit before her own retirement. She and Jellico had steered the Medusans to a status shared by an elite few units to her knowledge only five other independent units had true WarShips under their command and now her command had two such vessels.
For years they had trained on how to use their original Quixote-class vessel in coordination with their DropShip forces and they would remain in the Fenwick system for several more years completing their contract before looking for new work. She’d already made a couple of suggestions to the new Medusan commanders but after today it wasn’t her choice anymore. She stood in the gravity deck of the John Jellico quietly waiting for a few minutes before the younger Medusan staff member beckoned her through. She had already officially passed the command baton to her replacement the rest of tonight was a formality the staff member waved her over and Sandra moved through the door into the massive meeting room where already the party had begun and the drink had begun to flow as the Medusans celebrated the retirement of another of their commanders.
Office of the Exarch
Geneva, Europe
Terra, Star League Protectorate
20th October 3116
Entering the bright round room in the Terran High Command Knight Christopher Johnson entered the office of the Exarch for the first time. He had been a Knight for a very short period of time and felt like he was barely fitting into the role but now the Exarch wished to see him about a new role. Christopher Johnson was nearly fifty-four years old he had been a MechWarrior serving Terra, and the Star League, for more than thirty years he had grown up under the banner of the Star League Defence Force and was at the service of whomever led Terra to future peace.
From behind an oak wood desk Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion rose from his chair while now well into his eighties the Exarch commanded respect and moved gracefully for a man of his age. While Victor had been born in the Lyran Commonwealth, been brought up as a warrior prince and won great victories leading the Federated Suns Johnson had not seen the man do anything that would harm Terra or favour either of the realms of his birth and so he was willing to give him his loyalty.
“Knight Johnson, welcome to Geneva, it’s a beautiful day.” He said waving his arms towards the large glass windows which provided the room with a lot of natural light.
“Yes, it is Exarch” he said using the man’s title, he’d heard that Victor did not like to be addressed as “Sire” despite being entitled to it by birth. “Thank you for the invitation.” He said following Victor’s gaze out of the windows.
“I hear the Tenth Knights have been busy on Fomalhaut?” The Exarch asked looking back towards him Johnson realized the older man intended on keeping him on his toes.
“Yes, Exarch, we have been helping prepare the Fomalhaut Guards for the influx of refugees we expect from the District of Dieron following the recent activities in the Rasalhague Dominion. There have also been rumblings from across the Lyran border of them potentially taking advantage of the District’s current situation and we do not want that spilling across into our borders.”
“It is… Unfortunate” Victor admitted turning away from him and walking towards the large glass doors Johnson followed at a respectful distance. Johnson took a moment to take in the Exarch while his height, or lack there of, had often been commented about during Victor’s life the man carried with him something that made you notice. Today he was dressed in a standard business suite which only carried the addition of a Star League branded cape over his shoulders. The only hint of his Lyran past was his academy scarf which had been stitched into the hem lining of the cape he wore. “Tell me, Chris, what do you see?” He asked beyond the command complex there was a mass of gardens and open space for the better part of a mile before the city of Geneva extended beyond.
“Geneva, my home, the birthplace of humanity” he said thinking about ways to describe the beautiful towers that dotted the skyscape of the city, while Christopher Johnson was not from Geneva Terra would always be his home.
“I see peace” Victor said quietly “peace bought by the power of who has the biggest gun.” He said glancing over smiling at Johnson seeing the old man smile he saw that there was still plenty going on in his mind. “The Terran Hegemony, the Star League, ComStar and now the Star League again have kept the peace on Terra because they’ve all had the biggest guns.” He said “we’ve tried to do what the Hegemony did before us in building up the Protectorate and creating safe spaces for people to grow up in peace. But we are drawing a lot of attention onto ourselves as our Protectorate worlds grow in size and prosperity.” He explained
“Because people are tired of war and see the Star League as a means of preventing a slip back towars the Succession Wars.” Johnson said “sire, with all due respect if the nations you grew up in were allowed the power, we now hold all of our worlds would suffer and heaven forbid the Clans gained that power!”
“The dark secret is Christopher” Victor said with another knowing smile “they all aready have the power they just don’t control the seats we do.”
“But they want them?”
“Of course, they do!” Victor said laughing loudly it was a deep knowing laugh “for centuries the Succession States have wanted Terra, they always will, so they can claim that they are the inheritors of humanities future. That’s why the stavag Clans want this damned place! They want to tear it all down and start again under their own banner because they know better than the rest of us.”
“What can we do? We have already built up our forces. The Protectorates, the Star Leagues, they are all standing together holding back the darkness. We are staying ahead of the nations around us, we must.”
“Yes, we must.” Victor said calmer now “the Star League Defence Force will fall Knight Johnson.” He said looking at the younger man who was shocked by the statement “already there are cracks in its foundations, cracks that began with the withdrawal of the Capellan Confederation and have continued to deepen. One of these days one world too many will break from its parent nation, or the council will make a choice that more Succession Lords do not like and then the Star League will fall.”
“It cannot be that simple, it has stood for fifty-eight years longer than I have been alive!” He said “all of the current lords were born during its existence. Many of them owe their realms continued safety to the SLDF’s presence.”
“But they have centuries of ‘freedom’ and ‘independence’” he said emphasizing the two words “while the SLDF has technically taken neither of them, year on year we do bring new worlds into our little Protectorates.”
“Quite often war-torn worlds”
“Still followers of the Succession Lords.” Victor Steiner-Davion said “and there are outside pressures which may influence what happens. We’ve already seen the troubles Dieron faces?” Johnson nodded “they’ve brought it upon themselves but the Bears have already struck four worlds sending the defenders reeling by the overwhelming force the Bears are bringing to the fight. We need to be able to hold that back too.” He said mentioning the Bears immediate response to the attacks on their Dominion, the Clan’s military wing had already struck the systems of Kaus Borealis, Kaus Australis, Kaus Media and Ascella destroying the defenders who had tried to hold each of them including one of the District of Dieron’s few WarShips which had been shattered by one of Rasalhague’s fearsome Leviathan 2 Battleships.
“Hence the SLDF and the reason it was formed. All of the nations owe the SLDF” Johnson said repeating himself. He couldn’t see how the Succession States could survive without the SLDF, or vice versa.
“We’ve built swords and shields to protect our space, Knight Johnson, but we need a set of daggers to protect us as well.” Victor said “not every weapon works against every enemy. Not every weapon works the same way in defence.”
“I thought the Knights were along those lines?” The Knights were not supposed to win wars themselves but work with other units to shore up defences and create some sort of unity in the Protectorate. “They are a different kind of weapon.”
“They are but they are also in the public eye, we need a nasty unit one that lives in the shadows is part soldier, part spy and if need be they may need to be part saboteur and part assassin.”
“A black ops unit?” Victor nodded “Exarch, we also have those in the SAS and Intelligence Commands. They are made up of the most elite warriors the SLDF has produced and can do all of those things.”
“For the SLDF, I want a unit that is loyal to two things the Protectorate and its people. Answerable to one office.” He said raising his arms “this one!”
“To you.” Johnson said accusingly
“I’m an old man Knight, I won’t be around much longer. I don’t want your loyalty, just your obedience and that of your peoples. Together we can make this Protectorate safer” Victor announced turning towards the windows once more “and protect the peace.” He said calmly turning back to Johnson “Knight, I hereby name you the Protectorate’s first Shadow Paladin. And I charge you with recruiting a group of Ghost Knights.”
“Shadow Paladin, Ghost Knights?” Johnson asked with a small amused smile at the new ranks.
“Exarch, First Prince, Archon, Prince, MechWarrior.” Victor said listing more ranks all he’d had at one point “they are just titles Paladin Johnson, titles we match our duties to. We are prisoners to duty you and I” he said seeing Johnson smirk slightly “we both chose to be here. We both chose to protect this world and those around it. I may be an off-worlder but this is home now and I am duty bound to protect it. Do your duty and carry my dagger.” He challenged the younger man.
“I accept Exarch Steiner-Davion, we will create a force capable of doing anything you need to protect the peace from the shadows.” Shadow Paladin Christopher Johnson said accepting the position.
Orbital Drop
Marius Tears, Independent World
Periphery
22nd October 3116
Explosions rocked the Cohor’s Morituri’s base on the independent world of Marius Tears as the night was lit up by a surprise attack. The world was a former world of the Marian Hegemony and when that nation had come to an end it had been cut loose by so many others. There were some large mining facilities on the world which had been dug by prisoners sent to the Marian Penal Colony on the world. These prisoners had no choice over what happened on the world its defenders had set themselves up as the new rulers keeping control with the iron fist of a gun. This had kept them in power and the population subdued until tonight.
With their headquarters on fire the few guards were assaulted by an invading force dropping from the skies around them attacking their defence positions. On each of the attacking BattleMechs and paratroopers they wore the red coloured inverted chain mail fist of Ward’s Hunters another former command of the Marian Hegemony. In a rapid surgical strike, the Ward’s Hunters eliminated the entire command structure of the Cohor’s Morituri and force the survivors to surrender. From there with the masters dead the Ward’s Hunters take control over the penal colony and the mining operations setting themselves up as the new rulers of the backwater world.
Observation post,
Ruins of Stellar Research Facility, JP-M-774
Periphery
30th October 3116
Although the ruins of JP-M-774’s Stellar Research Facility looked like they were ready to crumble at any moment from the outside, in fact while the buildings had suffered battle damage centuries before they were also often dressed to look worse to the naked eye. While the former Combine troopers who had followed Kane to this place had set up camp on the lowest levels of some of the buildings that they considered to be most stable there were dozens of buildings to explore through including the massive primary building with its ruined Hyper Pulse Generator dish.
At present Kane’s people were making themselves at home and providing their people with shelter they weren’t interested in exploring the remains of the facility. This gave the other inhabitants based on the world time to set up observation posts around them watching the Combine citizens eek out an existance on the world.
“Four Three to Four One, we have sight on who we believe is their commander.” One of the observers said staring through the scope of a sniper rifle from their spot near the top of the Stellar Observation Post using the ruins to get a height advantage. There were two men who made up the observation post both dressed in gear that dated back to the first Star League. “He has shaved his head bald and tidied up his beard.” He said watching the man who still wore a Combine military uniform but with the addition of a civilian wet weather jacket JP-M-774 was well known for its bad weather during daylight hours and clear skys at night which made it well placed for a scientific base.
“Four One to Four Three, understood. We have sight of the other side of the settlement, keep up observation status.” His squad commander replied from his post across from them on the same building technically it meant that both teams could be in trouble if something befell the large building but there was no evidence that the Combine troops had such heavy weaponry beyond the weapons on their grounded DropShips.
“Affirmative, are we all going to die of old age before making contact with them?”
“Unknown Four Three, we don’t make the orders, our Brothers will decide when the time is right.” The two teams remained in their positions watching the Combine troops from afar, they would make contact when the time was right.
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the rise of Victor's Shadow Force
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A November update with 2 additions thanks to marauder648. One is purely inspired by his Project Zhukov and uses several of the units from it (Sorry if you haven't read... and WHY?) The second part was written by marauder several months ago and has sat in the vault waiting to be used, it's gone though a little revision recently but it's still mostly his so I thank you marauder it was much appreciated.
Planetary Assault
Furillo, Halfway Province
Lyran Commonwealth
1st November 3116
Over Furillo II green coloured DropShips and fighters almost blotted out the sun as much as the cloudy weather as Clan Jade Falcon arrived on the important Lyran manufacturing world. Higher in orbit WarShips of the Lyran Commonwealth tried to stop the Jade Falcons invading but they also had Jade Falcon WarShips to contend with.
Sitting in his Jade Hawk’s cockpit seventeen-year-old MechWarrior Christian sat waiting for the order to deploy his DropShip had thankfully cleared the Lyran aerospace defences and now they were dropping quickly towards the Defiance Industries plant, their primary target. Like the majority of the warriors involved in this battle Christian hadn’t faced his first Trial of Possession today would be that for all in his unit the Tenth Jade Eyrie Cluster. They would follow in the Xi Solahma Cluster which was already engaged with the Third Arcturan Guards RCT.
The light opposite his fifty-five-ton Jade Hawk went green and Christian surged forwards through the open doors and out into the atmosphere of Furillo. Immediately he triggered the BattleMech’s partial wing built into the Mech’s back the two multi-feathered metal wings raised up behind giving Christian far better control over the fall than a Mech carrying only jump jets. He turned the BattleMech towards the ground below he fell faster and faster at one hundred metres he cut in the Jade Hawks wings further slowing the fall before the Mech slammed into a landing. During his training Christian had practiced hover-drop maneuvers but this was his first in action and he was quite happy with how it had gone.
His happiness lasted less than thirty seconds as his Jade Hawk took an autocannon salvo high on the left of its chest. He looked at who had attacked him and saw a fifty-five ton blue and red painted Uziel BattleMech. While both Mechs weighed in at the same weight Christian’s BattleMech was built with Clan technology and far superior. “Well bargained and done!” Christian responded raising his own Mech’s arm opening fire with both of his own autocannons and then both large lasers. The explosive rounds of the autocannons both slammed into the enemy Mech while one of lasers burned down across the Uziel’s left leg the other laser missing its target harmlessly.
The Lyran Mechwarrior began closing on him firing its autocannon again at the moving Jade Hawk the explosive rounds went wide missing Christian’s Mech but the pulse laser fire moments before didn’t and the green pulses burned down the Jade Hawk’s left leg. While Christian had a significant advantage in ranged firepower his Mech was also faster engaging the Myomer Acceleration Signal Circuitry (MASC) built into his Mech the Jade Hawk surged forwards at over one hundred kilometres per hour. The Uziel pilot continued to fire autocannon and pulse laser shots at his Jade Hawk but Christian ignored the damage returning fire with both of his own autocannon striking the enemy Mech’s torso the fire was enough to throw off a short-range missile volley from the Uziel and the six missiles flew into the air exploding harmlessly away from any target.
Now within range Christian launched his Mech into the air continuing to keep up the autocannon fire. Return fire from the Uziel caused minor damage against his Mech’s lower torso but Christian didn’t flinch from his target firing both lasers down on his target as the Jade Hawk’s legs struck the Uziel one leg hitting the right torso and the other tearing off the Lyran Mech’s short range missile launcher. Momentum carried the Jade Hawk forward away from the Uziel as it toppled to the ground Christian fought with all his skill to keep his own fifty-five-ton Mech standing as he ran a few steps beyond the prone Lyran Mech spinning his Mech on the spot he triggered both autocannons directly into the cockpit of the downed Lyran Mech.
Under the sustained weapons fire the Uziel’s cockpit armour failed and crumpled inwards killing the pilot. “I am Jade Falcon!” He screamed into the shared communication channel he heard others screaming the same and knew he was now a Clan warrior. Not wasting time, he spun back towards the Defiance Industries plant seeing a red and black Axman heavy Mech its massive hatchet raised as its autocannon tore open a Jade Falcon SM1 Tank Destroyer. Raising his arm mounted autocannons he fired both striking the Axman’s torso gaining the pilot’s attention.
Unlike his fight with the Uziel Christian had a different engagement method against the Axman his Mech could run circles around the heavier Mech and that’s exactly what he planned on doing. He ran across the Mech’s field of fire striking the Axman again with its autocannons. He triggered the jump jets taking the Mech cleanly over a Lyran Fafnir assault Mech with was engaging in a long-range duel with a green painted Jade Falcon Hellstar. Not interfering with the battle, he twisted the Jade Hawk’s torso and continued to fire his lasers and autocannons at the Axman which was unable to close on him due to the superior speed of the lighter Jade Hawk.
As the Lyran Axman appeared ready to fall a group of short-range missiles fired by Lyran infantry troops struck his Jade Hawk. “Stavag! The Freebirths have broken Zellbrigen!” He called out but his warned was for nothing as he saw unit’s combining fire up and down the battle line already. “I will teach you!” He cursed the infantry troops firing both autocannons down at the troops caught in the open the infantry troopers were shredded by the autocannon sub-munitions as shotgun-like rounds tore thought at least a dozen troopers. His distraction had allowed the Axman to close and its autocannon roared into action tearing off a large section of the Jade Hawk’s right torso including the partial wing there. “Stavag!” He screamed angrily twisting back to his original target striking it with both large lasers the heavy Axman had already been damaged by his concentrated fire before now and struck dead centre, the torso of the Axman was cored by the Jade Hawk’s fire, his second kill.
Christian barely had time to catch his breath before his Mech was carpeted by long range missile fire from a black and red Catapult. “I killed your Axman, I will kill you!” He said angrily running his damaged Jade Hawk towards the enemy Mech. The long-range missiles had mostly done damage to his arms and legs, fortunately none had hit his Mech’s already mangled right torso.
Intending on closing quickly he jumped and ran towards the Catapult the quick movements and changes in direction throwing off the support Mech’s fire. He fired both autocannons as he ran to keep the heat down and then added in his large lasers as he closed and was surer of good shots. The Catapult added in medium lasers in the closer ranged combat two struck his Mech’s right torso and suddenly he realized that he had lost control over the right arm, right jump jets and his engine was showing damage. “I will still kill you!” He screamed keeping his aim on the Catapult, he was inside the minimum range of the long range missiles but it still had four, no only three, medium lasers active. He didn’t care as the Jade Hawk was failing around him Christian marched forwards screaming into the communication channel “I AM JADE FALCON!” As his remaining autocannon and laser burned away at the enemy Mech. To any outsider the Jade Hawk must have looked like a zombie machine that wouldn’t die as he closed on the Catapult continuing to take hits but march forwards. The heavier Lyran support Mech suffered from a lack of armour and this was what caused its end as Christian continued to fire and scream at the Catapult the heavy Mech suffered a catastrophic failure in its ammunition storage and suddenly the entire BattleMech was engulfed in an expanding fireball. “Stavag! Freebirth!” Christian muttered as his Mech was impacted by the explosions which were rocking the Catapult. During the battle he hadn’t realized but one of the medium lasers had struck the cockpit of the Jade Hawk causing a partial collapse of his cockpit part of the BattleMech’s cockpit had struck his neurolhelmet and as the concussive blasts continued to tear apart the Catapult the Jade Hawk fell over almost in sympathy for the fallen enemy BattleMech with Christian having passed out from his injuries.
Three days later Christian woke in a Jade Falcon field hospital as he recovered from a severe concussion. He sat in bed seeing dozens of warriors his age, little more than children in the eyes of the Inner Sphere, all injured during the fighting. On his fourth day he was visited by Star Colonel Swayman Mattlov the huge elderly Elemental commander of the Tenth Jade Eyrie Cluster. He motioned to rise from his position “Neg, Christian, remain where you are.” The “Old Man” of the cluster said Mattlov was only forty-two years old but he was more than double the age of any of his former cadets turned warriors. “You did well. Three BattleMech kills in your first outing. Enough to be a Star Captain were you fighting Clan opponents but as defeated inner sphere opponents it will be enough to be a Star Commander in future deployments. Quiaff?”
“Aff, Star Colonel, did we win?”
“Aff, but at great cost we lost four Clusters of the seven we brought to this world and Defiance Industries has been gutted by the room-to-room fighting which our Elementals have been forced to fight.” He said, it was a victory but a costly one “we destroyed one of the Lyran WarShips and captured another but we lost both heavy cruisers we brought to this system.”
“A costly battle”
“Affirmative, but a victory, rest now our journey towards Terra resumes soon.” All in all two full Lyran RCTs, four Jade Falcon Clusters and three WarShips had been completely destroyed in the Furillo system. The Fourth WarShip the Danzig, a Mjolnir-class Battle-cruiser, had been captured but it was crippled and wouldn’t leave the system without significant refurbishment. Elsewhere the Jade Falcons had also captured the Clotat and Laurelston systems.
Circle of Equals, Bonaventure (Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser)
Alpheratz, Raven Alliance
4th November 3116
After a Snow Raven petition to claim territory on an Outworlds Alliance world is turned down by civilian governments the Clan civilian, manufacturing and scientific populations who are largely confined to the newer colonies on the outer edges of the nation’s space, to the Clan’s many Potemkin-class Troop Cruisers, which had become little more than massive cities, or to floating enclaves built on certain worlds become restless. As far as they are concerned the Clan has made the periphery nation a force to be reckoned with and that it should not be begging for scraps of territory on the developed Outworlds Alliance worlds.
In an effort to quell the growing tensions Khan Vir Sukhanov spends the month travelling to each of the Clan’s four Potemkin-class vessels. On each ship he speaks to communities of Snow Ravens onboard the WarShips and attached DropShips and explained that he was doing everything in his power to expand Raven holdings in the Outworlds Alliance but their population was still tiny compared to those in the nation and compromises had to be made. Unfortunately, his words are not enough on the WarShip Bontaventure while he was speaking a hulking ex-warrior Chara Cooper challenged the Khan to a Circle of Equals. Chara Cooper carried a Bloodname from his time as aerospace pilot ace. During his final battle he’d been shot down fighting Clan Nova Cat and lost both his right arm and leg in the crash. While he had been fitted with a cybernetic replacement leg and an arm, he had been unable to continue fighting and been relegated to the Scientific Caste. Now he stated he was challenging the Khan as was his Bloodnamed right stating he had failed their Clan and a new leader with new ideas was needed and while the challenger was not that man, he thought a change was needed with a jeering crowd at his back Sukhanov agreed to the fight.
The two agreed to fight unarmed and unaugmented by armour and space for the Circle was cleared in one of the Bontaventure’s cargo bays and witnesses gathered from the WarShip’s crew and its attached DropShips. In a drawn-out battle Sukhanov successfully broke two of the man’s ribs and one arm but a devastating strike from Cooper’s replacement leg knocks the wind out of Sukhanov shattering several ribs and in a fluid motion he snaps the Khan’s neck.
Following the shocking victory many onboard the Bonaventure call for Chara Cooper to take his rightful place as the new Khan he refused stating the Khan needed to be someone capable of fighting for his Clan and he was no longer that man. Instead, a Clan Council was to be called at the Snow Raven capital enclave on Alpheratz and it took place at the end of November. Because Chara Cooper had been victorious and he still held his Bloodname he was invited and immediately refused the position before leaving the council accepting that because he was not a warrior, he deserved no vote.
With no Khan and no front runner saKhan Adam Howe attempted to take control over the Clan but was challenged immediately and killed in a Circle of Equals. The death of the Khan and then saKhan of Clan Snow Raven leaves a power vacuum at the top of the Clan which lasts well into December as various Bloodhouses attempt to place one of their leading warriors in a leadership position.
At the end of December Galaxy Commander Porter McKenna finally filled the position of Khan after winning the vote of the Bloodnamed Council. As a MechWarrior by profession and knows that he will find holding the position difficult with so many aerospace and naval warriors at his back. To ease their fears, he nominated Star Admiral Lydia Sukhanov the commander of the Montbatton WarShip Star to be his saKhan intending on ensuring a balance remained at the top of the Clan.
In an effort to appease the Clan populations and keep the Snow Ravens on their nation’s side President Rodger Orton, the civilian leader of the Raven Alliance, informs new Khan Porter McKenna that he was personally guaranteed several land grants to the Ravens on developed worlds for the Clan’s sole use allowing hundreds of civilians to set foot on Raven Alliance soil.
Weapons development
Csesztreg, Hell’s Horses OZ
Clan Occupation Zones
17th November 3116
The Snow Raven Clan had not been the only Clan to suffer from civilian unrest however unlike the Snow Ravens Clan Hell’s Horses were suffering troubles from their subjugated populations. Unlike other Clans like the Ghost Bears, Snow Ravens, Sea Foxes and Nova Cats the Horses had maintained a strong leash on their populations reminding them that the Clan was on top and they were the lower castes. This hard-line approach had worked for the Jade Falcons and Wolves but with the Horses it was beginning to cause problems riots were common across the OZ and in some places things had escalated to terrorist cells popping up and striking at Clan positions with everything from improvised weapons such as Molotov cocktails to military equipment, which had either been stolen from the Clan, recovered from hidden caches or sneaked onto the worlds by Inner Sphere powers looking to cause trouble.
Not wanting to use front-line equipment against these groups and in an effort to counter this growing troubles Clan Hell’s Horses first introduce a new Battle Armour suite known as the Demios. The Demios is half as large as a standard Elemental suit and is designed with anti-infantry and scouting operations in mind with an extended jump range over the Elemental and multiple standard and support anti-infantry weapons the suit proves deadly in the first few weeks of deployment with the Hell’s Horses new Thunderflame Clusters however they still need heavier armour or Mech forces to engage some enemies leading to further developments.
While the Horses had already been planning on introducing several new vehicles to their Touman they chose to first test these vehicles by deploying entire stars of their new Durga VTOL, a twenty-five ton VTOL with several pulse lasers and a long range missile array, the Eris APC, a forty-ton hovercraft with several support anti-infantry weapons and a capacity to transport five tons of battle armoured infantry soldiers, and Nike IFVs, a tracked fifty-ton Infantry Fighting Vehicle which carried an autocannon and missile launcher. In an effort to test their new vehicles and battle armour they a minimum of eight battle armour stars and two stars each of the new vehicles are deployed in each cluster and their impact is immediate with multiple cells of would-be terrorists wiped out during their inception. Arguments could be made that several of these people were yet to commit acts against the Clan but the Horses were more content that the peace was being held, even if it was at the end of a gun. By the end of 3116 nine Thunderflame Clusters had been formed with several attached to the various other Hell’s Horses Galaxies.
Battlefield
Shimosuwa, Vega District
Rasalhague Dominion
22nd November 3116
The conflict which had begun with the District of Dieron’s assault on the Rasalhague Dominion was going well with Moore, Lambrecht and Kuzuu being the most recent systems to fall to the Ghost Bears assaults with heavy forces also assaulting the District’s defences on Alya.
Back in the Rasalhague Dominion however the investigation into what had happened during the District’s assaults was just beginning Point Commander Durham moved across the battlefield on Shimosuwa in his Constable Power Armour (Light) suit along with his Watch team investigating the radioactive battlefield. While the Ghost Bear warriors were happy to vent their fury and frustrations on the District of Dieron the Watch had other ideas and wanted to answers.
“Investigator Durham!” One of his warriors, Taro, called out his grey painted Constable suit was bent over a Hitotsume Kozo BattleMech, one that had caught Durham’s attention because of its heavy Draconis Combine design.
“It’s Point Commander” Durham muttered to himself, he had won the rank in combat but he was an old man and the Watch did not see battles on a regular basis “what is it Taro?” He asked keying the radio.
“I have found something; do you want to see?”
“Neg, Taro, continue your investigation” he said lifting part of a broken Rasalhague Dominion BattleMech “find all the facts then present your story to me in full, Quiaff?”
“Aff, Investigator.” The man replied Durham swore to himself as the radioactive winds blew sand against his Mech. The word of Shimosuwa had suffered this greatly from this attack, the first nuclear attack since the First and Second Succession War, but with Clan science they had hopes of cleaning up the radioactive materials and fallout completely. The Ghost Bear attacks against the District of Dieron was allowing the older warriors to die facing an enemy’s guns and was allowing many of its youngest warriors to face a real enemy. The Watch would do its duty behind the scenes and once they had found the complete story here the Clan could continue its war with the civilians fully aware of their reasons, as if the nuclear fireball hadn’t been enough. Sand blew against Durham’s Constable suit as he methodically moved from one piece of wreckage to the next.
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Meeting Hall, Gravity Deck Four
CDS Titanic (Sea Fox-class ArcShip), Degholan
Clan Occupation Zone
30th November 3116
At just shy of two million tons the CDS Titanic lived up to her name. What had once been a Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser was now a mobile home, factory and habitat for thousands of Clan Sea Fox personnel. Her outer hull bulged where DropShips had been permanently attached to her hull, whilst hydroponic bays dotted her flanks and spine no longer just a Troop Cruiser the Titanic like many of her sister-ships were classed by the Sea Foxes as something new, an ArcShip, with the Titanic forming the centre of power for the Bloodscent Khanate. The massive ship sat at the centre of a fleet of DropShips and fighters, patrolling round the space going leviathan like small fish following a whale. But this titan was not alone, for another leviathan of the black swam alongside her, the CSF Terror of the Deep, a Nightlord II-class Battleship, and flagship of the Faulk Khanate and of Clan Sea Fox overall. Neither ship, nor any of the other JumpShips in the system, had a lot to worry about Degholan was a system fully controlled by the Clan and today was an important day.
The Terror’s passengers and many others from the JumpShips had already been sent across to the Titanic and the two giants now cruised a few hundred meters apart as the conference started. Every Khanate had sent representatives, and it was here that financial futures and the future of their Clan would be discussed, details on profitable markets, areas of growth and shrinkage and areas to be exploited as well as new designs showcased. Following the recent fighting in the Spica system between two Khanates decisions had been made by the two Khans and the ovKhans that helped them.
As the previous presentation about a planned assault transport VTOL came to an end Sub-Chief Scientist Katya stepped up and smiled. Around her she could see hundreds of other Sea Fox personnel, Merchants, Sub-Factors, Scientists of all ranks as well as Warrior-Merchants, those bold profit and market seekers who would travel across the Sphere with minimal support seeking smaller but none the less profitable markets with nothing but their own skill and acumen to support them.
A light on the big holo-projector came on and that indicated that it was her time to start speaking. She’d won the right to give this presentation after winning a Trial where she and her competitor had been tasked with ‘fixing’ the Great Depression or at least lessening its impact. Their papers, reviewed by the Merchant Factor of the Bloodscent Khanate himself saw her declared the winner. So, taking a deep breath Katya nodded and began.
“My fellow Clansmen, I give to you today our workings from the last nine months. Whilst other Clans and the Spheroid houses are now producing greater numbers of Assault DropShips or Pocket WarShips to complement their WarShip fleets it is a market we have yet to move into. And it appears that there is a market for such vessels. The Dominion was looking at producing their own design, even before losing the WarShip Ursla Major in the Alya system, but that is caught in a bureaucratic snarl-up with the Clan unable to direct its civilian castes with enough force.” She said around the room there was a small rumble of laughter from the warrior castes. Many saw the Sea Foxes as too lenient with their Clan but the Rasalhague Dominion was even more lax with its control. “The Wolves have produced the the Isegrim but lack the facilities to produce them at a useful rate and instead of building their infrastructure they are wasting their Clan’s resources on battering the Protectorate’s borders.” She said pausing for a moment “the Wolves are an opening we should exploit. Their one shipyard is overworked in the Tamarind system and we can profit from that.” She said glancing to the side she saw ovKhan Blake Hawker who was willing her to move on with the presentation instead of giving the other Khanates advice. “The Hells Horses also have a want for an assault ship that is not a decades old Noruff. And the Ebon Guard would also desire an Assault vessel for their own uses in the defence of Tukkayid. There is also the potential to sell to the Inner Sphere, the Grand Council of course still having a say in what we can trade with our Spheroid contacts.”
There were soft chuckles round the large chamber, the Sharks sold to whom they wanted and only paid polite lip service to the edicts on trade between the Clans and Houses. Many of the warrior caste believed that the only influence any of the other Clans should have in the Sea Foxes business was should be in a Trial of Possession.
“Ladies and gentlemen, I give you our answer to this need the Nagasawa class Assault Dropship.” She said continuing the large central 3D holo-projector sprang to life, showing a perfectly clear image of a long, sleek and aggressive looking vessel. Smaller windows on the projector opened up displaying her statistics and predicted capabilities.
“Basing our design on the original Noruff, the Nagasawa is half again as large, massing three thousand tons and like the Noruff we chose to make her a fast and agile craft, with her engines producing twice the thrust of a Isegrim class vessel at full burn.” She explained as the display showed the vessel turn slowly for all to see. From the initial reactions to the ship Katya thought she heard several approving comments about the ship.
“Unlike the Isegrim though we chose not to mount any sub-capital weaponry, but chose a mixture of conventional ballistic and energy weapons. A quintet of our newest class-5 Rotary Autocannon and a quintet of Extended Range Particle cannons form the vessels primary punch whilst Extended range large lasers, twenty-tube long range missile launchers and large pulse lasers provide all round firepower. Each of the missile launchers is fitted with the latest Artemis-V tracking system whilst fifteen laser anti-missile systems provide the defences she needs.”
“This weapons fit was chosen because honestly, if she was armed with sub-capital weaponry, she would be under-gunned. There is only so much you can fit on three thousand tons after all.” There were several approving chuckles from the audience. “Each of the weapons is in its own cradle which will allow them to be fully modular, and whilst not an Omni-vessel, our testing has shown that this makes the weapons easy to maintain and refit if needed.”
More data sprang up on the holo-display including a short video, played at several times the normal speed, of Technicians working on a full-scale mock-up of a RAC-5 mounting, with the weapon being dismounted and replaced in ten minutes. The view then went to a 3D cutaway of the interior of the vessel. Katya moved round to the side; a laser pointed highlighting sections of the ships hull which peeled back to reveal the interior layout.
“Using a wide range of input and experience as well as the latest in computer modelling the interior is laid out to be efficient and comfortable. And most importantly the vessel is sturdy it is armoured with ninety tons of Ferro-Aluminum armour the Nagasawa will offer a level of protection that will allow it to a hit from even a capital scale weapon and survive something that cannot be claimed by ships of this size and many far larger vessels. Combined with the ship's speed which allows them to outrun large aerospace fighters and many medium sized ones they have the ability to move into the optimal position to bring its firepower to bare whilst taking the worst that an aggressor can throw back.”
On the holo a simulated battle took place with a Nagasawa engaged against Spheroid fighters as well as a DropShip. The simulation showed the Nagasawa’s strengths, outmaneuvering a larger Spheroid Assault DropShip and crippling its engines before chasing down medium fighters that simply could not outrun it. Watching it Katya smiled seeing the battle and being born an aerospace fighter pilot she could see how the Nagasawa could be outmaneuvered but that wasn’t to happen today those that had programmed the simulation had made sure of that.
“With their superior layout the Nagasawa promises to be easy to maintain and whilst not atmospheric capable it is capable of deep space patrols and escorting larger vessels.” The new projection showed several Nagasawas in formation with the Terror of the Deep. “The hull is also designed to be manufactured in sections, with each section fitting like a jigsaw piece. This allows for them to be constructed at smaller facilities and at greater speed than a traditionally keel or spine-built DropShip.” She explained again now the holo-projector showed several parts of the DropShip being connected together inside the pressurized cargo bay onboard an ArcShip. “This would also allow for the sections to be built and sold as needed, creating a market for spare parts or indeed, spare sections. Each of these sections when broken down will measure thirty meters in length and with this, you could fit a fully broken down Nagasawa in the cargo bay of a Mule class transport. A competent work crew could assemble the hull within a matter of weeks, but of course the fitting out, installation of electronics and the vital systems would still take months, this can shave a significant amount of time from construction and allows the Engineers to work in a safe and pressurized environment.”
“Should construction be approved we believe that the first Star of Nagasawas can be ready within four months and that would be using the production facilities we have aboard the Titanic. A fixed facility could produce them at a greater rate. And we do need these vessels.” She stressed to the gathered warriors “whilst each fleet has its defence capabilities, there are well founded concerns about what might happen if we were turned upon by any of the Great Houses or other Clans.” She said she had been ordered to avoid mentioning the recent fighting between factions of her own Clan in the Spica system, this presentation wasn’t about shaming part of their own Clan. “Whilst the other Clans simply will not turn on us enmasse, because they need us, the House Lords are far fickler.”
A low murmur went round the chamber, the words were true, whilst the ArcShips were massive and well armed, they were not battleships, and their tactical doctrine called for them to simply jump away if threatened, using DropShips and fighters as a sacrificial screen. While most ArcShips had an escorting WarShip with them none of the Clan’s vessels other than the Terror of the Deep could fight a major slugging match with the majority of the Sea Fox vessels falling into the destroyer or cruiser categories. Even the Terror of the Deep while it could hold its own in a major battle, and she was being outclassed by the latest vessels to be produced by the Clans and the Inner Sphere. There were calls by the Warriors to trade for or obtain in battle an Arbitration class vessel to help secure the Clans assets.
The holo now displayed a ‘typical’ ArcShip surrounded by a swarm of Nagasawas much like the Terror of the Deep had been, their bright engine flares driving back an off screen darkness as the symbol changed to that of the Diamond Shark’s insignia. Katya smiled as she felt she’d done well this day and it would be noted in her codex and if production was approved, promotion, prestige and profit all beckoned.
“Now moving on to a lighter subject, we feel that there is another market for us to exploit, and for this we must call upon one of our most potent forces.” Katya said, she knew about the next presentation and decided to ‘big it up’ somewhat as she stepped back. An eager and young-looking Merchant stepped up as the Scientist took her seat, smiling at the applause she received as well as notifications on her console about personal meetings regarding the design.
“I wish to thank Scientist Katya for yielding the floor and I apologies for the tonal shift. But there is a market that we have not thought to swim, one that helps all of the Clans of Kerensky, and stands to bring great profit at minimal cost and with maximum impact.”
The lights dimmed and a rather happy piece of music started playing before the holo sprang to life projecting yellow highlighted orange words that read ‘The New Adventures of Clan Spaniel!’ This then changed to ‘Uhu the Peregrine!’ Around the hall there was a collected low laughter seeing their Clan was expanding into new less natural environments. Discussions would be taken away from the main presentation halls regarding the relationships between the Khanates but nothing concrete would be agreed today instead the traders would have their day and the Clan would look towards a brighter future and away from their troubles.
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Nice story update! I like the details on how they will build the new dropships
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Great updates, and I wonder whats going on with this nuclear attack, darn well written and yay that bit about the Nagasawa's here :D
I can kinda imagine the music for Clan Spaniel being more akin to a 1980s/90's cartoon (IE Pure ear worm) whilst Uhu The Peregrine would look a bit like Aggretsuko and its theme would be something like - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9R-AVyXtonk
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Nice story update! I like the details on how they will build the new dropships
This is a canon dropship unless this new version of it. Sarna article (https://www.sarna.net/wiki/Nagasawa_(DropShip_class))
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This is a canon dropship unless this new version of it. Sarna article (https://www.sarna.net/wiki/Nagasawa_(DropShip_class))
Canon design but I think Shadow_Wraith liked the details on how it was being built not just the design.
Time to end 3116. It's been a slog but I've gotten here. Housekeeping time as with the end of every year I'll be posting Active/Destroyed WarShips (the destroyed list is sitting at a scary 642 ships), Active Units and a map. I'll also be posting Clan Sea Foxes Aumaku-class Destroyer and the Coyotes new Redemption-class Heavy Cruiser (details of its first outing below... enjoy!
Objective Raid, Urseinova
Emris, District of Regulus
Free Worlds League
3rd December 3116
In his first “out of the Capellan Confederation” mission Duke Lei Ren Liao, the third and youngest child of Chancellor Dao Shen Liao, at nineteen years of age, joins they Dynasty Guard in a raid against Emris IV. Unlike his two sisters Lei Ren had not showed any affinity to BattleMech piloting and had instead joined Battle Armour training being assigned to some of the Shen Long Battle Armour suits produced in the Confederation. Following the death of Duchess Madison Liao fighting against the Federated Suns there had been some reluctance to allow him to join the raid but Duke Lei Ren dreamed of fighting for his nation.
Now running the quad suit across ground beside the StarCorps Industries plant on the world with his squad as they ran in circles around a Longbow BattleMech the turrets on their suits backs turned towards the Longbow peppering it with slugs from their David Light Gauss Rifles. Dozens of slugs slammed into the back of the Longbow as all four troopers fired in unison tearing open the lighter armour there and causing internal damage. They continued to circle the support Mech as it tried to fire on them and missed with every shot. Duke Lei Ren Liao smiled as he continued to fire his weapons into the face of the Mech as missiles from a Capellan Confederation Catapult II also landed on target. Massive explosions rippled across the BattleMech the Shen Long suits continued their circular course firing again at the Longbow’s back causing more damage to the assault Mech’s back this time triggering ammunition explosions inside the Mech as the ammunition stores were damage. The CASE panels built into the BattleMech stopped it suffering a catastrophic explosion but the damage was enough to take it out of the fight for the rest of today.
Breaking away from the wreckage of the Longbow the Shen Long squad turned on a Stinger light BattleMech the light Mech opened fire on them with its machine guns and laser burning down one of the squad’s members but that wasn’t enough to save it from a volley of fire from the rest of the squad. The damage tore through the Stinger’s left arm snapping it in two and then more damage was done across the Mech’s torso and head. The Stinger staggered under the fire but continued to try and engage them so the remaining three Shen Long suits did exactly what they had done with the Longbow and continued to fire on the light Mech quickly bringing it down.
“Duke Liao, return to our lines”
“We are winning”
“There are reinforcements coming we must retreat.” His battalion commander ordered Lei Ren Liao looked at his suit’s sensor feed and saw at least a battalion of enemy troops closing on them. The Dynasty Guard had already netted themselves several brand-new BattleMechs from one of the storage facilities but conquest was not their intention today. “Duke Liao, did you hear me?”
“Affirmative, I am falling back” he said turning the suit’s course away from the StarCorps plant in defiance he turned the suit’s turret into his aft arc and continued to fire all four gauss rifles as did the rest of his squad. Several of the fast-moving Marik light Mechs were targeted but even the combined effort of their entire line didn’t do enough to bring any of them down. “I will return to this world.” Lei Ren vowed as the Liao line continued its retreat they would soon be off the world and heading home but it wasn’t in defeat. Duke Lei Ren Liao’s star was rising slowly but surely in the Capellan Confederation.
Ghost Bear Retribution Strikes
District of Dieron
11th December 3116
Despite an ongoing investigation in the Rasalhague Dominion into who and what had started the conflict that was at the back of the Ghost Bears minds as they dropped forces onto Rukbat, Shitara, Sabik and Atria. The Rasalhague Dominion was a nation held in a delicate balance the Ghost Bears ruled with the strength of their Touman but also as the nation had evolved more resources and leadership had been passed into the hands of the civilian castes. It was the only way for a nation the size that the Ghost Bears held to remain stable. The Sea Foxes, Nova Cats and Coyotes had identified that and their nations were growing in strength. The Jade Falcons and Wolves believed that their populations belonged on Terra and so they were constantly moving forwards deeper into the Inner Sphere abandoning previously held worlds.
As a result of this greater civilian power and influence the Ghost Bear warriors who saw themselves as the core of the nation had been more and more pushed to the side. The Rasalhague Dominion had intentionally avoided inter-clan conflicts maintaining their strength and only retaliating and blooding their forces against the Draconis Combine. Now against a threat which had been identified as one that had harmed their nation the Clan warriors would not be stopped.
On all four systems were targeted by at least two clusters due to the presence of three combined-arms regiments on Shitara the entirety of the Bear Essentials, Rho Galaxy, were deployed against them along with a WarShip to provide complete aerospace superiority. The battle started with the Eight Rasalhague Bears Cluster and the Galaxy Command Trinary dropping directly on top of basecamp of the Third Arkab Messengers Regiment. They found the base entirely unoccupied but it served as a good base camp for the Bears to operate from it also allowed the Bears to land an additional star of support DropShips unhindered by enemy fire.
Instead of being in their base the Third Messengers had joined with the Twenty-ninth District of Dieron Regulars Regiment near the capital intent opposing the landings there while the Thirty-third District of Dieron Regulars Regiment held the main spaceport. Having established air superiority within hours of their arrival Ghost Bear commander Galaxy Commander Chin Snuka ordered the spaceport bombed by aerospace fighters’ intent on picking away at the Thirty-third’s dug in defences. Initially the spaceport’s defences weathered these assaults but then the troops and the spaceport itself began to be pounded by artillery missiles fired by the support star of Polaris-class DropShips occupying the Third Messengers base. At the same time the remaining four Clusters of the Bears Essentials dropped right on top of the Twenty-ninth Regulars and Third Messengers Regiments.
It was a heavy weight slugging match on open ground with one side having control of the air and having entrenched artillery pieces with the initial ground forces charging into the thick of the battle joining the rest of the Galaxy the two regiments were encircled and annihilated to the man.
With cruise missiles falling all over the spaceport and two regiments completely the planetary governor attempted his escape heading to a DropShip located near the outskirts of the capital far from any Ghost Bears. While the aerospace fighters had been dedicated to bombing operations the WarShip Akakabuto was not, the Bergan-class Destroyer, was holding position near the Battle of Tukayyid, one of the Rasalhague Dominion’s Leviathan 2-class Battleships. Galaxy Commander Snuka had ordered that no DropShip be allowed to leave the planet, seeing the rising Bara no Ryu-class vessel the Akakabuto’s commander allowed the DropShip to rise to ten thousand metres of altitude before four heavy naval particle cannon shots sliced through the atmosphere with three connecting with the DropShip’s port side shattering armour and burning through several decks of the ship the hit killed dozens of people onboard the ship and completely severing the ship’s engines from its fuel supply. A safety feature built into the class to protect the crew from damage in space caused the engines to splutter and stop sending the ship into a horrifying dive from which there was no recovery.
The third particle cannon shot that missed the DropShip tore a three-hundred-metre-long scar across fields south of the capital striking just before the governor’s DropShip also slammed into the ground and exploded in a massive fireball. The two combined acts as well as a continuous bombardment from the Bears broke the remaining defence regiment’s will to fight and the remains of the Thirty-third laid down arms rather than face the entire Galaxy arrayed against them.
Compounding issues for the leadership of the District of Dieron was the Draconis Combine annexing the Umjiri and Junction systems with barely a shot fired as those worlds defences had been stripped to face the Rasalhague Dominion assault. On the District’s other border, the Lyran Commonwealth’s Isle of Skye region launched assaults on Skondia and Alkalurops systems securing them both and isolating both La Blon and Dormini VI from the rest of the District. While JumpShips could traverse the space in between border lines it was unsettling for Dieron as the year comes to a close to see its region of space carved up by its neighbours.
Trial of Possession, Redemption (Redemption-class Heavy Cruiser)
Engadin, Alshian District
Rasalhague Dominion
19th December 3116
With the Rasalhague Dominion busy mobilizing for their conflict with the District of Dieron and the Hell’s Horses once more preparing for assaults against the Lyran Commonwealth Clan Hell’s Horses strike at the two Clans backs with Trials of Possession against a manufacturing plant on the world of Engadin in the Rasalhague Dominion and the symbolic target of Sudeten in the Hell’s Horses OZ. Backing both of these attacks are the first two Redemption-class Heavy Cruisers built by Clan Coyote in an attempt to reinforce their naval arm. Built on a sturdy frame weighing in at eight hundred-and-seventy thousand tons, protected by heavy duty ferro lamellar type armour and armed with primarily naval autocannons and naval gauss rifles supplemented by a bevy of advanced conventional weapons and defences the ship was designed to enter and dominate the battle space around it hammering enemy opponents at all ranges.
In the Engadin system the Redemption, the lead ship in the class, had battered the Rasalhague Dominion’s Norge, a Bergan-class Destroyer, allowing ground forces to move in and secure the planet for the Hell’s Horses. The Norge and what was left of the Dominion’s Fifth Bear Regulars Cluster were now limping towards the jump point in defeat.
In the Hell’s Horses OZ the second Redemption-class vessel, the Vindication, had faced no naval forces but it had escorted the Forty-ninth Battle Cluster to victory over the Hell’s Horses recently formed Fourth Thunderflame Cluster. Their prize for their victory Sudeten was not the manufacturing giant that it once was but it was still a symbolic prize showing that the Coyotes were not just making up the numbers within Clan space but a force to be respected. In Coyote space two more Redemption-class vessels were under construction and being prepared to join their sister ships serving their Clan.
Sam Snell Trading and Warehouse Storage Depot
Algiers, Algedi
District of Dieron
22nd December 3116
Almost every house and mercenary MechWarrior and BattleMech on the planet of Algedi had been involved in the defence of Algedi as they pushed back the Ghost Bear invasion of the world holding onto it for another day. The Ghost Bears controlled the space around the world their gigantic Leviathan 2-class Battleship Rasalhague and its Conqueror-class Battle-cruiser escort having slain both Tatsumaki II-class Destroyers assigned to the defence of the system. The Bears would return to Algedi and when they did the remains of the three regiments protecting the world would more than likely fall.
For Bobby Winchester the survival of those regiments was not his concern, he’d never bought into the whole defence of a realm idea instead when darkness had fallen, he had used his Huron Warrior BattleMech to cave in the wall surrounding the Sam Snell Trading and Warehouse Storage Depot on the outskirts of Algiers, the capital of Algedi, and now he was standing guard as his employers stole several dozen crates of munitions and parts from the depot. Sam Snell Trading was a subsidiary of the Scarborough Manufacturing Annex on Algedi and was used to store items before they were taken off world, today these items would pass through a few more hands before making it off world.
“Time’s money com’on, com’on” Winchester muttered watching the crates being loaded onto the three six-wheeled Prime Movers that had been brought on this trip. Winchester wasn’t being paid by the hour he had insisted that his money be deposited into an off-world account as soon as they left this facility, he planned on staying with the Prime Movers until he’d confirmed his money was transferred and then he’d slip away to his own extraction point.
Unfortunately for Winchester and his associates the fighting for Algedi had ended far sooner than he had hoped and already he was hearing reports from the front lines that troops were returning to their bases most likely meaning that some might also be coming back here. “One to ground troops move your arse we have incoming!” He said just as his Mech was hit by four autocannons of an approaching Mauler. “I haven’t got the weapons for that big bastard, get out now!” He warned them seeing the ground troops scatter towards their lightly armoured vehicles.
So far, the Mauler appeared to be alone and it appeared like it had seen some fighting already with its armour pitted in several places, with luck it was also low on ammunition. This gave Winchester an opening he accelerated his Huron Warrior to the right just as the space he had occupied was bombarded by long range missile fire from the incoming assault Mech “no joy!” Winchester shouted twisting the Huron Warrior’s torso firing both his arm mounted weapons a pulse laser and silver bullet gauss rifles into the Mauler. It was such a large target he couldn’t miss it the pulse laser burned down the big red Mech’s left side while the Silver Bullet shattered armour plates across the Mech with its fast-flying projectiles.
The assault class Mauler attempted to track the Huron Warrior but Winchester was already moving when the laser and autocannon fire tore through the space his Mech had occupied. Activating his Mech’s supercharger, the Huron Warrior accelerated well over one hundred kilometres per hour and moved behind the Mauler giving Winchester a clear shot at its lightly armoured back Winchester quickly took a shot with both weapons neither could miss and they burned and tore open the rear of the Mauler exposing its ammunition bays and staggering the big Mech. Winchester quickly lined up a second volley against the back of the Mauler and fired he could see secondary explosions rock the Mauler as his pulse laser found the ammunition bay and the autocannon or missile rounds inside began to cook off. He savored the moment as he watched the Mauler die from within “ground forces withdraw at your leisure, I got…” Winchester never finished his sentence, he wasn’t an accomplished MechWarrior he hadn’t served in the military and hadn’t fought in any large battles, he was a criminal and he used his BattleMech as an extension of his criminal activities. If he had been trained in the military, they would have taught him to always check his surroundings and never take your safety for granted. The Mauler had been the first Mech to return to the depot for repairs but it hadn’t been alone behind it another damaged Mech was returning for repairs. The second Mech was a smaller but capable Hitotsume Kozo clad in stealth armour which had held back when they detected Winchester’s Mech and the activity at the depot now with its lance mate dispatched the second Mech had moved in behind Winchester’s Huron Warrior and with a single swipe of its Hatchet caught the Mech completely unprepared and caved in the protective armour arranged over its chest and back. The Hatchet enhanced by the Triple Strength Myomers which filled the Hitotsume Kozo’s arms dug through the Huron Warrior’s chest and into the cockpit slicing Bobby Winchester in half before he even realized what had happened to him.
As the Huron Warrior fell to the ground with Bobby Winchester either dead or close to death in its cockpit the criminals, he had been protecting had no chance of fighting off the Hitotsume Kozo and they had attempted to run into the night. With other District of Dieron forces returning to the area the entire criminal operation was hunted down and killed without any quarter given.
Amenemhat (Invader-class JumpShip)
Uncharted system, Deep Periphery
31st December 3116
Since his escape from Clan Mountain Wolf’s holdings on Gallery Scientist Riko Danvers had been at the mercy of his Society handlers he had been bundled from one DropShip to the next as they travelled across House Steiner and into the periphery. Now beyond the grasp of the Lyran Commonwealth or the Clans he had betrayed he had been taken several jumps into the periphery and felt like he was beginning to feel the effects of long-distance travel in space. Riko Danvers was now sixty-two years old even by Clan scientist standards he was old while Clan medicine could easily extend his life span over one hundred years and he’d used what drugs he could get his hands on still the effects of aging were catching up with him.
The Society had invested a lot of resources in his extraction and Danvers was not entirely sure why, his research into viruses’ augmentations had already been transmitted to his handlers, he didn’t have much more to give. The Mountain Wolf experiments had served their purposes they had shown that done correctly a virus could target specific genes and cripple a Clan.
Now standing in the Invader’s gravity deck he waited for his handler to arrive, the whole crew served the Society but none of them were willing to speak to him so he waited, on the monitors in the room he watched as the JumpShip’s massive jump sail unfolded.
“Riko Danvers, how are you doing?” His handler Joseph finally asked as he entered the room. Joseph was half his age standing at average height with short dark hair, he had a well-maintained beard and his clothing would match any traders in the Inner Sphere, he would disappear into any crowd.
“Bored, watching the lifeblood of humanity unfurl.” He said indicating to the sail without jump sails humanity would never have expanded as far as it had, while a JumpShip could use other means to charge its jump engine each of them came with additional risks of damaging the drive.
“Yes, a grand sight, but you’re watching the wrong thing.” Joseph said he smiled noticing Riko’s flinch in his use of a contraction “you’ll have to get used to lots of those where you’re going.” He said laughing at Riko’s discomfort as he reached out and changed the monitor which showed the blackness of space. On a planet you could look into the sky and see the stars and know there were systems beyond your own but here the stars were tiny compared to the black. The isolation out here must be maddening he thought. “Computer isolate area forty-two on display eight and enhance one hundred times.” Joseph ordered as he did the screen changed to show more black but this one showing a large space craft.
“What is that?” Riko asked not knowing the class of vessel it looked massive with dozens of DropShip collars and a large open area at the front which appeared to hold another vessel.
“The future” Joseph said “you’ll learn soon enough about its purpose but on that ship the Society will build a new and our dominance will stretch from the Homeworlds all the way to Terra.” Joseph boasted as the DropShip began to exit the internal bay onboard the vessel, the DropShip appeared to be covered in weapons.
And finally a Special Thanks to Maingunnery for providing us with the Society ship at the end (yes it's an Alexandria-class CoreShip)
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Another exciting entry in universe of AT w/ T! I'm finally going start arching this thing, which will be PROJECT. Hopefully it will be okay, I may just put it all on PDF instead posting it all the Fanon Wiki, it maybe too much. 2ndArc's The Quest & 1st Book of Fate is Cruel were as long as War & Peace. I can't imaging how big this thing is going be. xp
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I can now spell the classes name (I looked it up)
The Aumakau-class Destroyer fielded by Clan Sea Fox and the Free Worlds League's District of Bowang
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/aerospace/aumakau-class-destroyer-au-with-thanks/new/#new (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/aerospace/aumakau-class-destroyer-au-with-thanks/new/#new)
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I Found the Redemption-class from Clan Coyote it was designed by The_Caveman and can be found on the below thread.
The fluff doesn't match the design presented as my AU is different but the design is the same. (I reserve the right to use the other two later...)
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/aerospace/a-clan-warship-post-wor-coyote-heavy-cruiser/msg1166133/#msg1166133 (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/aerospace/a-clan-warship-post-wor-coyote-heavy-cruiser/msg1166133/#msg1166133)
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Active WarShips and Units at the the end of 3116
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Map at end of 3116
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Active WarShips and Units at the the end of 3116
wow they are still here
Korbin's Kommandos
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How did ever get make these maps? I have difficult time as is using old pdfs of them try show troop movements/border changes.
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How did ever get make these maps? I have difficult time as is using old pdfs of them try show troop movements/border changes.
I try to keep it as simple as possible I use paint to change the borders it doesn't look as pretty as a PDF but it works
The excel sheets seem to be way more efficient in tracking unit movements than anything else I've tried so I'll stick with them for now
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wow they are still here
Korbin's Kommandos
Miller's Mailed Fist as well :)
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Rainbow 6 and DOC_Argen yeah they are both active and both on Skye I believe... fun place to be
Short but fun start to 3117
Castle Dieron, Empress’ Briefing Chamber
Dieron, District of Dieron
11th January 3117
In the carnivorous round chamber deep within Castle Dieron Empress Emiko Kurita stood with former Coordinator Akira Kurita and Warlord Akira Tormark. Both men were her closed advisors and wore full military uniform. The District of Dieron had not been around long enough to develop an entirely unique uniform so it followed the traditional lines of the Draconis Combine’s uniform with the Dragon replaced with Dieron’s Castle emblem on the shoulder and right side of chest. Emiko herself wore a traditional green and red silk kimono all three of them stared up at the holo-projector as the connection was made and the image began to settle. The holo-map of the District of Dieron was replaced with the emblem of House Steiner, the clenched chainmail fist before being replaced by the multi-pronged halberd insignia of Skye. Finally, the image changed to an image of Duchess Ilse Kelswa-Aten, now in her forties she still looked fit for her age with her thick dark straight hair cut short into a bob which was arranged around her face. She appeared to be wearing a business suit with a light blue shirt which was open at the top underneath. “Greetings from Skye, Duchess Emiko Kurita, Duke Akira Kurita and Warlord Akira Tormark, I hope this communication finds you all well.”
“Well enough given the circumstances Duchess, we wished to enquire why Isle of Skye JumpShips have appeared in the La Blon and Dormini systems?” Emiko asked cutting to the chase immediately.
“We are there to support the forces of the District of Dieron, nothing more.” Ilse said simply with a smile “my regiments and their supporting auxiliary forces wish to provide you with the necessary manpower to hold La Blon and Dormini while also defending your District from Clan attack.” She explained further “like your nation mine is under threat from the Clans, we have faced five Clans assaulting our borders at different times and Skye stands strongly. We wish to see Dieron do the same.” She said, she neglected to mention in her statement that Skye stood with the full backing of the Lyran Commonwealth and SLDF while the District of Dieron had neither support. The Draconis Combine was opposed to the break away state's existence and they had also opposed the inclusion of the District into the Star League with the presence of SLDF forces on Dieron a holdover from previous agreements, not an official defence agreement. Emiko Kurita had no idea how the Eridani Light Hoses based on Dieron would react to an invasion against her world.
“By offering to garrison our cut off worlds?” Akira Tormark asked speaking up, recent Ghost Bear assaults had cut off both systems from the rest of the nation. While JumpShips could cover the gap it was only a matter of time before their position became untenable.
“We are offering peacekeeping troops which will free up several of your ground forces regiments to be used elsewhere.”
“It is an unprovoked…” Akira Kurita began but Empress Emiko Kurita silenced him with a single raise of her arm.
“Such assistance would greatly help our District.” She said smiling an unhappy smile “and tell me Duchess would Dormini and La Blon be the only worlds you would suggest were occupied by your peacekeepers?”
“As you ask no, we believe Ko and Lyon would be benefit from the presence of our troops too. Perhaps if we are there, as neutral forces, the Ghost Bears would realize those worlds did not need to suffer due to the host nation’s actions.”
“We did not attack the Rasalhague Dominion!” Akira Tormark snapped “we have been set up; we are just unable to provide the evidence of this because of the actions of the true culprit.” He said indicating they had their suspicions without actually naming anyone, there was only one nation it could have been that conducted the attack but that did not have to be said.
“Of course, a nuclear bomb will do that.” Ilse suggested “still my offer stands do you wish the assistance of our peacekeeping troops? If not, they will leave without incident.”
“We will contact…” Akira Tormark spoke first but like Akira Kurita he was silenced by a single wave of Emiko Kurita’s hand.
“I accept, on one condition my regiments and any civilians who wish to leave are allowed to leave.”
“Of course, our forces are not an occupation force they are simply here to support you.”
“You have my thanks Duchess Ilse Kelswa-Steiner, I will not forget what you have done for the District of Dieron today.” Emiko said finally bowing slightly to the other woman who simply smiled on the holo display. Before another word could be said Emiko cut the Interstellar link connecting Dieron to Skye.
“We will never recover those worlds.” Akira Tormark said quietly walking around the table facing the Empress “the Lyrans will dig into those systems and we will never pries them out.”
“It matters not” Emiko said dismissively seeing Tormark’s anger “we will not be able to recover anything if the Rasalhague Dominion conquer Dieron and Dyev is an opening to Dieron. Warlord redeploy all of our troops from those four systems to Dyev, they will guard us from the Bear’s invasion forces.”
“They could Passover the system” Akira Kurita suggested “come directly here, they are within range of a Lithium Fusion Battery.”
“Not likely” Tormark admitted, “the Bears like to be systematical. Look at their most recent reinforcements they hit Dublih, Albali and Ashio instead of pressing the attacks they had already made. They are seeing targets in front of them and firing, hiding nothing about their intentions.” He said the holo projector showed the Rasalhague Dominion’s most recent assaults Dublih, Albali and Ashio had all fallen within days of the invasion beginning.”
“We must stop them, bring them to the table and force them to listen to us.” Akira Kurita said “We did not start this war, individually our units cannot defend the District from the Ghost Bears, the Rasalhague Dominion invasion has proven that. But concentrated into one mighty block our forces could stop them.”
“On Dyev?” Emiko Kurita asked she did not have the military mind of the other two but could see the beginnings of a concentration of units.”
“No, too close to Dieron.” Akira Kurita suggested
“I agree” Tormark said nodding his head “we need to bring them to a world of our choosing.”
“Algedi?” Akira Kurita suggested, a heavily fortified world already it also had the manufacturing facilities to supply the defenders for a long campaign.
“Agreed, but how do we bring the Bears to that world?”
“We go there ourselves” Akira Kurita said “we inform the Rasalhague Dominion that we are ready to answer for the District of Dieron’s defence and we will defeat them and prove their accusations are wrong.”
“Challenging them will not be enough, you will need to offer them something in defeat.”
“Algedi?” Akira Kurita suggested
“One system when they are already taking many systems every month, I do not believe they will take that challenge for that prize.”
“Then there is only one solution” Warlord Akira Tormark suggested “if they defeat us the Rasalhague Dominion will have all of what is left of our nation.”
“The ComStar option” Akira Kurita commented but he saw Empress Emiko Kurita did not look happy as she read the data pad in front of her “it is the only way.”
“It is not that.” She said glancing up “the Federated Suns have landed troops in the Towne, Helen, Quentin and Murchison systems.” She said she didn’t even have to mention that House Kurita had this very morning secured control over the systems of Minakuchi, Waddesdon, Katalpha and Sutama. The troops from those systems were already in full retreat.
“The bastards have no honour. Attacking a target in the back.” Akira Tormark said angrily “we should withdraw our units if we wish to preserve our strength to use against the Rasalhague Dominion. We have three regiments worth of troops in that region.”
“Route them to Algedi” Akira Kurita ordered “Empress, with your permission we will submit our challenge to the Rasalhague Dominion and make preparations to move to Algedi?” She nodded both men bowed deeply to her authority. Akira Kurita was a former Coordinator of the Draconis Combine but everyone knew Emiko Kurita held the power on this world.
As the two men left her the Empress looked at the map, almost thirty worlds had been lost already and with their forces concentrated on Dyev and Alegdi more worlds would be vulnerable to attack. She knew what she needed to do, and she knew both men would struggle to forgive her should they survive their encounter on Algedi but it had to be done. She needed to explore options other than resisting the collected powers around her.
Border Fighting
New Samarkand Prefecture
District of Midway, Draconis Combine
23rd January 3117
With the Draconis Combine launching assaults on targets within the District of Dieron and remaining on guard against the movements of both the Federated Suns and Rasalhague Dominion attack comes from the other side of the nation as Clan Snow Raven attacks. On Zalaf the First Ghost Regiment are wiped out by the attacking clansmen on Sinope while the Twentieth District of Midway Regulars are sent reeling from Zalaf. While there are only two attacks, they rock confidence in the DCMS defences.
As the Ravens launch attacks against the Draconis Combine the Nova Cats also cause problems on the border of a Succession state winning two Trial of Possessions against the Federated Suns. Unlike the full assaults against the Draconis Combine the two battles between the Nova Cats and the AFFS are limited to a Battalion against Cluster battle with the Nova Cats victorious in both of the fights on Davisville and Mermentau. The Nova Cats invite the Federated Suns to enter in Trials of Possession against them while both were technically in conflict the Nova Cats would allow Federated Suns citizens to leave their occupied worlds should they wish and allow companies to continue to trade non-military goods with the Federated Suns.
Loading Entrance, Tower of Fronc
Paradise, Fronc
Fronc Reaches
31st January 3117
The world of Fronc was the capital of the Fronc Reaches and seemed to be a world away from the Clan invasion and any external threat. Pirates had long decided that the world wasn’t worth the effort to invade while the Taurian Concordat, Magistracy of Canopus and Capellan Confederation were little threat to the world or its nation with all having non-aggression pacts with the nation.
The Tower of Fronc sat at the middle of Paradise. It had been constructed following the independence of the Fronc Reaches from the Magistracy of Canopus and Taurian Concordat. When described as a “Tower” it was infact five buildings in very close proximity. The four corner buildings were curved on the outside and each was twelve stories high while the fifth central tower was three stories higher at fifteen. On the top there was an observation balcony which allowed the government to look over their city and look at the sand-dunes which dominated the landscape beyond the city.
As mercenary contracts went this one was easy for the Pebal Court Jesters their combined arms regiment had accepted it after a year and a half on the Canopian/Free Worlds League. During the fighting there they had salvaged multiple weapons and pieces of equipment fielded by the District of Lesnovo and now on Fronc they were slowly fitting them into their TO&E and training new recruits. The presence of an additional combined-arms regiment on the planet had allowed the Colonial Marshals to spread out and protect easier to target worlds while the Jesters provided garrison and training support.
After an extended campaign defending Bayindur from raids Infantryman Olivia Baddeley was bored she and her infantry squad had fought off a Clan invasion from the forces bringing down one of their Cheetah BattleMechs. It was only a fifteen-ton ultra-light BattleMech but they’d brought it down and now it was part of their regiment. Now she was bored guard duty of the government centre on Fronc was the complete opposite of combat.
Sitting at the gatehouse at Corner Four she was checking in vehicles to the dock it was 09:04 she was two hours and four minutes into a twelve-hour shift, the sun was beating above and it was another beautiful day on Fronc with the weather expected to hit 29C today, perfect for anything but work. Each vehicle had to be checked with a scanner and physical check before it was allowed into the service yard. She’d worked this detail for two months already and it was monotonous, the same vehicles entered the facility on the same schedules like clockwork. She looked up from her desk and saw the next truck approaching, it was a blue and green painted Iveco Burro II Super Heavy Support vehicle with the Bull logo of Taurian Freshwater Suppliers Limited. She looked up and saw the driver Randall, the same man who came in every week, heading out of the guard house she headed over towards the box truck. “Hey, hero how you doing today?” He called out of the cab window they had begun speaking during his multiple visits to the building he seemed happy to see her.
“Bored senseless” she replied heading out towards the truck looking up at him, Randall was nice on the eyes he had smooth dark skin, short cut hair and well-maintained facial hair. He had ambitions beyond Fronc and delivering fresh water unlike many on the world.
“You just want to get out there and get shot up again, don’t you?” He asked keeping things light.
“Well, you know what it’s like.” She said searching her pockets realizing she’d forgotten her scanner; it was still in the guard post.
“Yeah, it’s dangerous out there…” he said looking at her “you never know when you could have trouble.”
“You going to cause me problems Randall?” She asked half seriously, what trouble could a truck of water cause.
“I really don’t want to” he said seriously
“Good, I hate trouble” she said beginning to walk around the vehicle, she didn’t have her scanner but at the very least she could check the vehicle and have a look around. She got to the back of the vehicle and toggled the open control located there it asked for a passport and she entered the code Randall had given her the day before, it wasn’t standard procedure but they saw each other every other day and he trusted her. The door opened up and it showed a wall of water containers behind there was another line and then another line. She toggled the close and lock control before continuing to walk around around to the cab and looked back at Randall.
“No scanner?” He asked looking her over, he’d obviously expected it and the delay its use cause “hope you didn’t see anything that might worry you?”
“Nothing today, you wouldn’t cause me trouble, would you?”
“I really don’t want to” he repeated he looked more nervous this time.
“You alright Randall?”
“Yeah, I’m fine just a warm day, a lot to day no rest for the wicked” he said smirking looking up, the sky was bright above and it was warm.
“You trying to wind me up because that could be just as dangerous, you know fine I'm stuck in my little box for the next nine hours.” She warned him smiling back
“I wouldn’t do that” he said “you know what it’s like Olivia, busy, busy non-stop in my line of important work.” He said sounding like he only was half joking, they’d talked a lot she knew exactly what he thought about his job and its lack of importance, “if you’re not scanning then I guess I can continue?”
“Absolutely, carry on with your busy day, until tomorrow Randall” she said turning towards her guard post again walking away as the truck began to move again the hum of its fusion engine the only sound it made as it passed by.
Olivia Baddeley watched Randall’s vehicle continue down the slope beside her heading towards the underground loading bay before heading back towards her guard post. She barely got into the small booth and picked up her scanner when the blast wave ripped through the guard post and through the building above. The fireball moved quickly enveloping the lower area of Corner Four and the Central Tower of Fronc, while well built the Tower wasn’t designed to resist an explosion especially one from within its own basement or one quite as large as the one inside Randall’s truck. The blast quickly extended through the basement sections of all four buildings shattering the foundations of the complex and causing massive damage. Further damage was done to all five buildings as fire ripped through them overwhelming the built-in sprinkler and fire suppression systems.
All around the Tower of Fronc the blast wave shattered windows and caused minor structural damage but the damage to the Government’s centre of authority was huge. Despite the efforts of Fronc’s emergency services and the additional assistance provided by the Court Jesters the entire complex collapsed in on itself three hours after the initial explosion. By 12:32 there was nothing left of the Tower of Fronc and 80% of Fronc’s Leading Council were dead or in critical condition included in that number was Prince Marshal Dirk McEvens and his wife Edre McEvens, who were both dead, and their daughter Colonel Emma McEvens who was so badly injured she needed to be placed in a medically induced coma.
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This update sort of just flowed out of me, seemed to work pretty well and sets up a lot of things to come in the future
The next few updates will show exactly where things are going. If anyone wants to see what's happening in a specific area of the Inner Sphere, periphery or Homeworlds feel free to ask either in a comment or PM. Same with any contributions feel free as always you will have my thanks.
Border conflict
District of Dieron
2nd February 3117
As the District of Dieron calls on regiments to dig into Algedi the Draconis Combine takes advantage of the errant state’s concentration on the Rasalhague Dominion by landing troops on Shimonita, Peidmont and Chichbu taking each away from the local militia troops who have been left behind.
On Algedi Duke Akira Kurita and Warlord Akira Tormark challenge the Rasalhague Dominion to come to the system and engage the District of Dieron in an honour trial to end the conflict. They state that if the Rasalhague Dominion are victorious on Algedi then the Rasalhague Dominion will gain control of all remaining District of Dieron worlds. With the Draconis Combine, Federated Suns and Lyran Commonwealth all already taking worlds from the District of Dieron this may be the only way for the Rasalhague Dominion to gain control over the remains of the small state. Arrayed waiting for the Rasalhague Dominion in the Algedi system are eight regiments worth of troops and three WarShips along with several support squadrons of Pocket WarShips.
Tower of Fronc VTOL Port
Paradise, Fronc
Fronc Reaches
21st February 3117
Less than half a kilometre from the rubble that was the remains of the Tower of Fronc the VTOL port had been a hive of activity since the terrorist attack which had leveled Fronc’s Parliament and killed 80% of the world’s leadership. There was a constant stream of VTOLs and ground ambulances evacuating the wounded and dead from the field hospital which had been erected at the site, around the area was an entire battalion of the Fronc Household Guard, Colonel Emma McEvens regiment, who were guarding the evacuation. Since the destruction that had been wrought on the Tower riots and internal fighting had begun threatening the security of the site. While both Dirk McEvens and his wife Edre had been found dead in the rubble while Emma McEvens had been recovered, she was badly injured was in a medically induced coma.
On the main pad of the VTOL Port there was a Cal-Boeing Swiftran. The Swiftran was a large twenty-five-ton VTOL. On each of its four upward tilted engine nacelles the four propellers turned slowly as the aircraft waited to take off. Above the Swiftran four Lamprey Transport Helicopters hovered waiting for them to be ready to move out already the infantry the Lamprey’s had brought here were moving towards ground vehicles.
Sitting in his Hound BattleMech Major Jakub Zboril monitored the situation “All Guards, the Colonel is coming out be on your guard, no-one comes through the perimetre.” He ordered as he did, he saw a group of doctors and medics moving quickly from one of the tents towards the Swiftran, already the VTOL held a half a dozen other patients all crammed in together. As the group entered the rear the four propellers began to spin quicker lifting the aircraft off the ground. “Straight to the DropShips” he commanded the pilots as the Swiftran joined the Lamprays and headed across the city.
“Guards” he said addressing his MechWarriors and ground troops “let’s get out of here, we don’t know who may still be gunning for the Colonel or for us. She needs care off world, let’s get the job done.” He commanded moving his BattleMech towards the city all around him the Guards defence lines fell into formation around him and the ground vehicles. Fronc General Hospital could care for Colonel McEvens but the world was quickly slipping into a state of Civil War and the Guards couldn’t stand against every civilian, it would turn into a bloodbath, a lot of the Guards were from Fronc and the surrounding worlds and none of them wanted to engage in combat action against their own people.
The convoy passed through the city without major incident. The streets were lined with civilians who were screaming insults and throwing items at their units but thankfully nothing that could harm an armoured vehicle or BattleMech. Fronc was a prosperous world and the Reaches had done well in recent years but without leadership, and with the massive loss of life and damage done by the bombing, uneasiness was quickly turning to fear and anger. The Guards were an easy target even though mercenaries had filled guard duty at the Tower of Fronc the Household Guard were the world’s primary defence force.
Once at the spaceport the Household Guard almost wordlessly filed into the unit’s DropShips and boosted off the planet leaving Fronc to continue to fall into disarray. The Household Guard’s plan was to take Emma McEvens out of the Reaches completely and into the Capellan Confederation to neutral ground where she could receive care away from potential threats, while many would see this as cowardice in the face of the enemy Emma McEvens, her daughter and son were the legitimate leadership of the Fronc Reaches and at the moment there was a threat against them all.
Trading Hall
Trading Post P62, Falakuma
Sea Fox Territory, Periphery
28th February 3117
While not on the grand scale of a gathering of the Clan Council on Tukayyid the small insignificant periphery world of Falakuma was the site of a gathering of the largest concentration of Clan leaders in several years. Khan Canin Rosse, the leader of Clan Nova Cat and the oldest of all the Khans, entered the chamber buried deep within the Sea Fox Trading Centre and he saw the young Khan of Clan Snow Raven Porter McKenna, the Khan of Clan Lynx Katrine Devalis and Sea Fox Snapping Jaws Khanate leader ovKhan Brad Hammond already waiting for him. Canin Rosse had taken longer to travel to this system but had also come from further afield to this meeting of the Clans.
“Khan Clan Nova Cat arriving” one of the Elemental Guards announced as he stepped into the room the man was unarmoured but still towered over Canin Rosse as he entered.
“Finally,” Katrine Devalis muttered looking up at the older man, he guessed the five years she’d had control over the Lynx Clan hadn’t mellowed her opinion towards him, he looked at her she had dyed her dark hair bright green which Canin found slightly off putting, for a woman her age she seemed to be trying to prove she was still interesting to look at.
“Welcome to our little party Khan Rosse.”
“Thank you, Khan Devalis” Canin said respectfully “Khan McKenna, nice to meet you.” At thirty-eight years old he was half Canin’s age, of average height and of an athletic build with a full head of blonde hair, unlike Canin who had now fully lost his hair. While he was advancing in age Canin still walked unaided and regularly joined his troops on the field.
“Khan Rosse welcome”
“OvKhan Hammond thank you for hosting us here.”
“It is Clan Sea Fox’s pleasure” the man said he sat in between Khan McKenna’s and Khan Rosse’s age in his early sixties maybe from his build Rosse assumed he was of an aerospace fighter pilot phenotype by birth. He was small with a larger head than naturally born humans. “Why did you want to bring our four Clans together Khan Rosse?”
“The Succession States are a problem” Khan Rosse began moving to the oval table in the room he sat down at one end of the table while Khan McKenna and Khan Devalis took either side of the table and ovKhan Hammond took the far end chair.
“Really? You brought us all that way to tell us that?” Devalis said angrily standing up her green hair moving creating a wave of hair over her head.
“The Draconis Combine detonated a nuclear bomb on the soil of the Rasalhague Dominion” Rosse said bluntly, Devalis and the others looked stunned and she slowly sat down again.
“You cannot know that; I do not know that yet and I am closer to the Bears than you are Rosse.” Hammond stated his voice raising slightly he sounded angry thinking that Canin would be willing to lie to get them onboard with a plan.
“Your Clan may be closer to the Bears than the Nova Cats are but we have capable people in the correct places.”
“Spies” Devalis almost spat angrily, she knew exactly what Rosse was referring to, she knew where Khan Rosse had come from and what he had fostered within the Nova Cat Clan. “The Watch have eyes and ears everywhere as always Khan Rosse?”
“Not spies, they are capable people and they mean no ill to those that they observe.” He said both Khan McKenna and ovKhan Hammond looked equally annoyed and concerned about the revelation by the Nova Cat Khan, just how far this “network” extended. “Some of our observers in the Rasalhague Dominion space have confirmed with the Dominion’s own Watch that the nuclear bomb originated within the Draconis Combine.”
“If they have concluded their investigations and found this, why are they continuing to hammer Dieron?” McKenna asked confused
“Many reasons namely they are able to test their new weapons, blood their newest warriors and close on Terra.” Canin said pointing out the three obvious reasons to pursue an assault on Dieron.
“But the Dominion do not want to conquer Terra” Katrine Devalis stated Canin Rosse smiled
“Publicly” Canin answered “the Bears have a similar view on the ilClan as the Nova Cats, the Sea Foxes, the Horses and…” he said looking at the new Raven Khan not knowing his beliefs “at least until recently the Ravens. The ilClan is a title and it takes Terra off the table as a target but otherwise life goes on and the Clans continue to do what we do.” He said seeing Katrine Devalis disgust at the attitude towards the highest honour that could be achieved by a Clan. “The Founder was very clever when he formed our Clans.” He said each of them nodded their agreements “while we have a lot of joint heritage and shared history, he made sure that each of us was able to grow independently of the shared cause.”
“Except the Not-named” Hammond noted there was silence between the gathered four for several moments before they spoke together “Seyla” before several more moments of silence.
“So, the Succession States are a problem, Quiaff?” Devalis said bringing them out of their silence and back to Canin Rosse’s original point.
“Aff, the Bears are dealing with Dieron and then they will more than likely turn their attention onto the Combine and ensure they cannot prosecute a war of aggression for some time.”
“Aff, you would not want to be their long-term neighbour and enemy” Canin Rosse said remembering when the Clan Invasion corridors were originally being drawn up. Clan Nova Cat was due to join the Smoke Jaguars in fighting the Draconis Combine before a vision had led them to their new home in what was then the Tortuga Dominions on the periphery region of the Federated Suns where they had prospered. “The Combine will be very busy in the coming months allowing us an opportunity to strike.”
“Us? You do not share a border with the Combine Khan Rosse, my Lynx do.” Devalis said almost as if she needed to remind him, she took part of his Clan and their territory away from him. “What is the Nova Cat’s part in this assault?”
“Technical expertise and supply, as well as keeping the Federated Suns busy on the Raven’s back.” Rosse said “I am willing to release enough forces for you to create four combined arms Clusters Khan Devalis in exchange for materials.” He said looking at Katrine he was offering her a chance to build an entire Galaxy worth of troops. “I know the Lynx plan to abandon several of your deeper periphery holdings.” He said seeing the surprise on her face “with these additional forces you can greatly expand you, Clan.” He suggested
“And how do we benefit?” The Sea Fox ovKhan asked
“I am willing to release a Nova Cat holding to Clan Sea Fox. Specifically, to the Snapping Jaws Khanate.” He said seeing the man’s face light up, the Nova Cats had jealously held their territory only allowing a small trading enclave on Tortuga Prime until now, having an entire system would greatly benefit the Sea Foxes. “And we will assault Federated Suns targets between the Nova Cat’s Den and Snow Raven space keeping their attention on us instead of on your forces.”
“Where would you have us strike?” Khan McKenna asked deferring to Khan Rosse’s judgement “you are both already doing it. Katrine your Lynx are placed to attack Herndon?” he asked looking at her, she nodded again annoyed the Nova Cats had picked up a couple of details about her Clan. “And from there you threaten Pesht with direct attack.” He said glancing over at McKenna “your forces recently won two battles near New Samarkand which is already drawing additional forces to the region.”
“And we support” Hammond said he didn’t look happy with the arrangement.
“You are welcome to join the attacks if you wish ovKhan” McKenna suggested “your Sea Foxes would be welcome to join us.”
“A trade world close to New Samarkand would benefit Clan Sea Fox greatly.” He noted, we could coordinate with your forces on a target, quiaff?”
“Affirmative, ovKhan, what do the Nova Cats get out of this Khan Rosse? Your Clan will likely make negligible moves against the Federated Suns, even with them being distracted currently with Dieron.” Katrine Devalis said wondering what Rosse’ endgame was.
“Affirmative, we will make slower and steadier progress than your Clans should but with the new WarShip we’re building with the Ravens perhaps our time will also come.” Rosse suggested “until then we’ll continue to make slow but steady pace. In your attacks the Nova Cats will assist with intelligence and supplies for the most part.” He saw their faces realizing that he knew that they didn’t like that the Nova Cats would be sitting on the sidelines “none of you need to make these assaults, the Rasalhague Dominion will likely assault the Draconis Combine in the few months.” He suggested “given what we know of the attack against them the Bear retribution will come swiftly and be dramatic. Having this information gives you an advantage when the attack comes.” He stated simply “I am placing this information in your hands it is up to you if you wish to use it.” Canin Rosse had the experience to know when he had someone’s attention.
“When did the Nova Cat’s become the spy, Clan?” Hammond wondered out loud, he saw that Canin Rosse did not take offence to the statement. “You appear to have access to quite a bit of information.”
“That is all he has but none of the guts to act on the information on his own.” Devalis stated “that was always your problem, it is why you lost us.”
“I lost you because you are a manipulative bitch.” Canin snapped breaking his cool “Katrine, I knew about your moves within our Clan. I sent what became the Lynx Clan away because of your plans and the plans of others within the Clan. A direct confrontation with the Federated Suns on the scale you wanted would have destroyed out Clan.”
“And now you are pushing us to act against the Combine in the same way? Quiaff” She asked angrily thinking she had exposed an opening.
“Neg” he responded looking at the others “to attack the Federated Suns en masse brought a reaction our Clan could not handle, we all witnessed that when we took Crofton.” He stated the counter attacks by the Federated Suns caused heavy damage to the Nova Cats. “The intelligence I am providing you with will allow your Clans to strike when the Rasalhague Dominion does. Our Clans are powerful, but we cannot take out an entire succession state alone.” He pointed out what should be obvious to the others. “We saw that when the Clan Invasion initially occurred the Clans that invaded invaded together and they won more than a fifth of the territory in the Inner Sphere. However now that there is no combined invasion our progress has stalled. If you want to cause irreversible damage to the Draconis Combine you will strike together when the Dominion does.”
“There is too much territory” Hammond agreed “the Sea Foxes have found the same since we took control over portions of the Jade Falcon OZ.”
“Exactly, our Clans can win the territory but we also need to learn how to garrison huge areas of territory. We need to build Auxiliary forces willing to defend their homes while we take our wars to the enemy. The Rasalhague Dominion has done that faster than our other Clans, the Fire Mandrills on the other side of the Inner Sphere appear to be well on their way to that as well. The Wolves and Falcons sacrifice their territory to move forwards, none of you want to follow that model.” He suggested recent intelligence suggesting that the Lynx Clan planned on abandoning several of their systems to move forwards as they did not have the manpower to garrison all their worlds.
“And where are your Nova Cats?” Katrine Devalis asked
“We follow our visions, and our intelligence, you are correct ovKhan Hammond my Clan has begun to rely on the intelligence, it is the best way for success until there are others in the position to crush the Federated Suns.” He said glancing around the room seeing their surprise his old face cracked into a smile “we are Kerensky’s Clans, while some of us believe that there are better options rather than full invasions, we all hold the same dream an Inner Sphere enlightened by the guidance of the Clans.” He said all of them nodded at that agreeing with the statement “we just need to fight smart.”
While on Falakuma Khan Canin Rosse confirmed a trade agreement with the Lynx Clan where the Nova Cats would trade four clusters worth of equipment in exchange for additional natural resources. They also signed a deal for access to the newest Snow Raven aerospace fighter the Navajo, a ninety-ton aerospace fighter designed to engage the heaviest enemy fighter, DropShips and WarShips, and the rights to build it.
Rosse also negotiates the trade of Memphis from Clan Nova Cat to Clan Sea Fox ownership in exchange for the Sea Fox Clan supporting any offensive actions taken by the three other Clans and supplying them with munitions where required.
Note: the Navajo is from marauder648's Project Nelson
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Great updates and it seems that Canin and co are planning seeing the Combine in the middle of a feeding Frenzy.
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Ooh... Homwworlds.
What's up on them?
Something nasty, I hope...
TT
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Another great update.
I'd be interested in seeing what's happening in and around the Taurian Concordat and the Clan Homeworlds.
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Well you're in a little luck
There's more to come from the Taurian Concordat in the March, April and May updates including a new Mech they are producing
As for the Homeworlds next we'll here from them is in October 3117, it's a really exciting update where... iath... son... ety... Bearclaw... discover... BattleMechs [Error Code 303... attempting to reengage with server... Error 303 HPG Service Interrupted please contact your local provider]
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I become single and suddenly I have lots of time to write... you'd think they were connected ;D honestly I've got the flow to a tee right now I know exactly where this is going
Negotiation
District of Dieron, Federated Suns
9th March 3117
While Duke Akira Kurita and Warlord Akira Warlord attempted to repel the Rasalhague Dominion in the Algedi system already reports suggest that three WarShips from each of the Rasalhague Dominion and the District of Dieron had been destroyed and Rasalhague Dominion troops had landed on the planet. Even with eight regiments on the planet victory was not assured as the Ghost Bears had dedicated two full Galaxies to the planet’s conquest.
Empress Emiko Kurita stood alone on Dieron looking at the holo-tank ahead of her waiting for the connection. She hated what she had to do but it was the only way especially with the Draconis Combine already exerting their authority on three more systems of the District Tannil, Lapida II and Kurhah. The District’s agreement with the Rasalhague Dominion stated that should the Clan force be victorious then all of the District’s systems and worlds would be turned over to their control in the meantime she was duty bound to defend their territory. Either Combine rule or Dominion rule the results would be similar the local government would likely be imprisoned or worse, she had taken them out of the Draconis Combine with a promise of more freedoms but she had led them to ruin.
The holo-tank finally activated and the face of Duke Jerome Sandoval the duke of the Federated Suns’ Draconis March. “Duke Sandoval, thank you for speaking to me on such short notice.”
“My pleasure Empress” he sounded pleased to speak to her Empress Kurita had dark hair the sides of his head were completely shaved while the top was grown longer and tied at the back in a topknot. He wore the uniform of a Field Marshal of the Federated Suns. “How can we be of assistance?”
“I want you to engage the Draconis Combine units on Tannil, Lapida and Kurhah” she said she felt like she was making a deal with the devil and it was a devil that laughed at her for several seconds before calming down. “You don’t need to take the systems
“And why “Empress” would we help you?” he emphasized her position almost to the point of making it a joke, she was begging another state for help, and she knew it.
“Because I will legally cede those systems to you if you are victorious.” She said willing to give up control over the three systems.
“Not enough” Jerome Sandoval said “you want me to risk my people’s lives for three worlds we could win ourselves there has to be an intensive.”
“What do you want?”
“Galatia to Sadalbari.”
“That is seven worlds!” She said angrily “none of them have been threatened by the Draconis Combine.”
“Yet” Sandoval said “Empress, admit it your nation is in the twilight of its existence. You can accept our assistance, buy your people time, and I will deploy house and mercenary units along with WarShips to Tannil, Kurhah and Lapida within an hour of this transmission ending. But I could lose those house, mercenary and navy units, I need to give First Prince Davion something in return. Your worlds are all threatened.”
“That is a third of our remaining systems.”
“Save your nation or surrender to the Bear or Dragon, your choice.”
“A list of bad options Duke Sandoval.” Emiko said angrily, this felt like her conversation with the Duchess of Skye the other side held all the cards. If her people could defeat the Bears on Algedi they might be able to salvage some of their nation but right now things looked bad.
“Our conversation is wasting time; do you want my troops or not?” He asked leaning back away from the camera as if what he wanted was not all that important when in fact it would be a great win for the Federated Suns.
“I agree” she said through gritted teeth
“Very good, our units will be deployed by the end of the day.” He said within hours of House and Mercenary units each supported by at least one WarShip were deployed from the Draconis March into the three contested systems. Landing quickly on the worlds the Davion and Mercenary forces engage both the House Kurita forces and the militia forces of the Distict of Dieron turning the fighting into a three-way battle for dominance.
Landing Operation
Talltsa, Deep Periphery
23rd March 3117
With the Fronc Reaches falling deeper into a state of civil unrest the Taurian Concordat had decided to expand back into systems that they had abandoned previously starting with those closest to the Concordat and then spreading further out. On the world of Talltsa Subaltern Dwain Murphy strode his sixty-ton Oryx BattleMech through the undergrowth towards to small town ahead of him. He saw a pirate Wasp charging towards him and fired both of the LB-X class autocannons mounted on the rifle arms of the BattleMech. The Wasp was pelted by armour piercing pellets which caused damage across the BattleMech while the light Mech accelerated towards his position, he sighted the Mech again with the autocannons targeting the camouflage Mech. Only one of the autocannons splashed over the Wasp while the other tore across the ground beside it tearing up the dirt.
The Wasp retaliated by firing off a medium laser which burned across the Oryx’s chest burning away some of the BattleMech’s standard armour. As the Wasp closed on the Oryx’s position Dwain fired again but missed the fast moving twenty-ton BattleMech which cut to his right. As it closed Dwain added in his two medium lasers and two short range missile racks from the Oryx one laser burned down the Wasp’s left leg while half of the twelve short ranged missiles slammed into the small Mech while the rest exploded harmlessly on the ground around the BattleMech tearing up the landscape. So much damage was too much for light BattleMech which staggered forwards for a few more steps then it collapsed and staggered into a fall.
As the Wasp was taken out of the fight, he saw another Mech moving from the city his Oryx’s battle computer quickly identified it as an Argus BattleMech. From Dwain’s right flank a brown Shadow Hawk raised and fired its autocannon and missiles into the target, moments later on his left an Enforcer engaged the Argus with a laser while the lances fourth BattleMech a Watchman also stepped forwards and added another large laser to the mix. The Argus was heavier than all three of the Oryx’s lance mates but combined it struggled under the combined hits. Dwain added in both of his light autocannons causing further misery to the BattleMech’s plight.
Despite the damage wrought on the Argus the heavy BattleMech was still able to open fire firing its long-range missiles and its rotary autocannon tearing into the Enforcer on Dwain’s left. The medium Mech staggered under the fire but remained standing.
“This is Subaltern Murphy of the Taurian Guards we are here to bring order to Talltsa and bring it back into the Taurian Concordat. Stand down.” He ordered on an open channel in all Dwain’s dozen years in the military the Taurians had taken hits and retreated from enemies attacking, it felt good to be on the attack. There was silence to his call “Battle engage and bring down that BattleMech, fire at will.”
The three BattleMechs on Dwain’s flanks charged forwards engaging the Argus from all angle’s lasers, missiles and autocannons bore down on the BattleMech causing heavy damage. To the pilot’s credit he tried to fight back but he was one BattleMech against three. From behind Dwain Murphy watched their backs and saw the incoming threat a lance of wheeled short range missile carriers. “Watch your six! They’ve set a trap.” He called out opening fire on one of the short-range missile carriers hitting it with autocannon fire causing heavy damage to the side of the small vehicle. As he did the Enforcer turned and launched itself into the sky on jump jets and engaged a second SRM carrier with its autocannon and laser. The laser burned away armour while the autocannon blew open the front of the small vehicle causing huge internal damage and blowing the vehicle up from the inside out. The third missile carrier peppered the Watchman with missiles blowing away pieces of armour and causing internal damage blowing away the BattleMech’s left arm. The Watchman staggered under the blows but remained standing long enough for the rest of the lance to destroy the remaining SRM carrier.
The resistance here on Talltsa was over but the Taurian Concordat forces extended their reach to Davetall II and III, Acidalla and Charion VI bringing them all back into the periphery nation, all of the systems had once been part of the Concordat and would be again as Protector Sonja Calderon flexed her nation’s muscles once more.
Landing Zone
McCoy’s Malcontents Homebase
Whittington, Periphery
29th March 3117
They had seen the destruction from above, and seen the condition of the remains of the planet’s defenders as they approached the base from orbit. Schuyler McCoy exited the unit’s DropShip Conte Rosso and walked down onto the torn-up ground of Whittington. Less than one hundred metres from the DropShip’s LZ he could see a destroyed Emperor BattleMech, one of the Mechs he’d left here when the unit was deployed, beyond the Emperor laid a Mackie while closer to the base stood the remains of a Banshee BattleMech. On the courtyard three more BattleMechs that he had left behind stood in various states missing limbs and suffering armour breaches. Also littered around the battlefield that had been their home was a destroyed Centurion BattleMech, two destroyed Fulcrum hovercraft and several smashed-up weapon carrier vehicles.
As Schuyler McCoy moved through the base seeing the Marian Hegemony insignia on several pieces of destroyed armour. Moving over to one of the bodies he bent over and flipped the man over revealing the Marian Hegemony’s insignia engraved on the man’s head. “Cohors Morituri” McCoy grumbled angrily, the Marian Hegemony was gone but their remnants still survived. He looked up and saw the survivors of his base coming out, many of them were wounded.
“Schuyer are you alright?” Amanda Cavalcanti asked walking up behind her during their trip away from Whittington she’d taken a pair of hair clippers due to an out-of-control hair day, he wasn’t a huge fan of her close-cropped hair but it did the job.
“Do I look alright?” He snapped back towards her “they came here when they knew we weren’t!” He said angrily “these people are my people Amanda, I brought most of them here and I left… I left them with the scraps of our equipment while we were out adventuring.” He stated the best practice was to take the best equipment you had but it had left Whittington with barely enough for a solid defence.
“We were doing what we needed to. You keep saying if we sit on our asses here then one day someone will come and we’ll lose it all!” She responded
“We need to defend this world better” he said turning to the others “we’re the ones they rely on.” He said turning back to her “tell the Front Two to stay buttoned up in the DropShips, we need food and spare parts, Backdoor Squad are staying behind to reinforce things here. We’re leaving half the unit behind to reinforce things here. Tell Sabrina and Stephanie to acquire themselves something that’s functional they can help with the defence” he said naming the newest two members of the unit.
“Shouldn’t we help them?”
“We’re going after those who did this. We’re going to Marius’ Tears.”
“That hellhole” he said Amanda commented Marius’ Tears was a barren volcanically active world, no-one went there intentionally.
“We’re going in, and we’re going to clean it up. And either they come out or we do.” He said angry at what had happened to his home, he didn’t even want to see the mess the ex-Marian warriors had made of the collection of Mechs his father had left them, that would be a discovery for another day for now he planned on taking two lances off the planet after almost a battalion of enemy troops, they had to do it right.
The Oryx is borrowed from the rather good fan-TRO Operation Lancaster
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As for the Homeworlds next we'll here from them is in October 3117, it's a really exciting update where... iath... son... ety... Bearclaw... discover... BattleMechs [Error Code 303... attempting to reengage with server... Error 303 HPG Service Interrupted please contact your local provider]
( Sends a disquised WoB repair person to " help " with repairs to the local HPG. )
Precentor Pi
Zeta Alpha Epsilon
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( Sends a disquised WoB repair person to " help " with repairs to the local HPG. )
Precentor Pi
Zeta Alpha Epsilon
It’s those bird aliens from Far Country, isn’t it?
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Just looked the Oryx up, not a bad mech.
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Just looked the Oryx up, not a bad mech.
Similar to the Rifleman but yes not bad at all
Back to work in two days I wonder how much more I can write... honestly this week its been fun, time for April 3117 - the first part is not at all inspired by an old TV show I've been watching honest (I say old it's like a few years old)
Hostage Situation, Detroit Consolidated Mechworks
Deerborn, Fronc Reaches
Periphery
1st April 3117
The Fronc Reaches was spiralling out of control fast with the lack of leadership following the attack on the Tower of Fronc. The bombing had happened at just the right moment taking out the majority of the government, the knock-on effect had been to destabilize the entire nation with people not knowing where their nation was going.
The Colonial Marshals, which were the glue that held their people together, were fighting fires and dealing with issues throughout the Fronc Reaches. On the industrial world of Detroit, a team Marshals known as Team Flashpoint had been sent to Detroit Consolidated Mechworks, one of the most important places in the entire realm, due to an armed incident inside the works.
The Flashpoint Team were known as the Special Reaction Unit and the Marshals job was to defuse the situation, and if they needed to eliminate the threats. The situation on Detroit was a fluid one with angry workers holding several of the plant managers hostage until they got answers.
“Listen my names Sergeant Grieg Parker of the Detroit Marshals Special Reaction Unit, we want to resolve this situation peacefully” from within the Quaestor Mobile Tactical Command HQ which was parked behind the line of Cellco Ranger Law Enforcement Vehicles and the Zhan Heavy Transports which ringed the entrance of the plant. Between him stood eight Amazon Battle Armoured troopers ready to infiltrate the facility while behind the Quaestor, the Cellco’s and Zhans stood the unit’s six BattleMechs. Above the facility several helicopters monitored the site watching for anyone trying to sneak through the
“You cannot help us, we’re all doomed, soon the signal will come and we will all be bathed in the inferno of death.” Came a response over the radio “Fronc was the first sign”
“What do you mean you’ll be bathed in an inferno, we’re all going to be alright” he responded swapping communication channels “Raymond, anything out there?”
“Negative, no sign of contacts” his twin brother Raymond Parker responded from his Wyvern City BattleMech which stood on the outskirts.
“Boss! We might have a problem”
“Go ahead Spike” Grieg called the younger man who was in his Raven II BattleMech he was the units electronic warfare specialist.
“My Mech just picked up an attempted transmission sent to the facility. My Raven’s ECM is set up for a broad-spectrum block, it didn’t get through but someone tried to blow this place to pieces.”
“Any idea where it came from Spike?”
“Planet side, probably within a few kilometres given the strength of the signal.” Spike said his forty-ton Mech carried a lot more than the standard electronics suite “Boss, I don’t know if I’m going to be able to keep it covered if things move.”
“What’s your plan?” Raymond Parker asked from his Mech
“We use the choppers ECM, blanket the area, link them to me and I’ll coordinate positions, it’ll be like a poor man’s C3.” He suggested
“You’re not a poor man, Spike, brains are worth more than money.”
“Tell my banker that” Spike commented
“Do it Spike, take the units” Grieg Parker said from the command vehicle “Eddie, if this goes sideways leave Spike and the helos.”
“Understood” Edward Laing said from his Quickdraw BattleMech on the field he was in charge of running any battle that occurred.
“Boss! We have another problem” Bradick called from his Gravedigger BattleMech, Bradick was an ex-member of the Rasalhague Dominion military and his mixed tech BattleMech was probably the most advanced one in the entire periphery.
“Go ahead”
“I have movement near the Mech entrance.” He said Bradick and the unit’s Anubis BattleMech piloted by MechWarrior JC were checking the perimeter of the building.
“Maybe some employees trying to break out?”
“Only if that break out includes weapons fire!” Bradick called back ducking his Gravedigger away from a salvo of weapons fire. “We’ve got enemies on the move, weapons fire incoming two Ostroc!” He said both were bigger than the two Mechs around the back.
“Wordie, Ed, Raymond go!” Greig Parker ordered the three Mechs began running around the facility leaving the vehicles and battle armour to hold the front door.
“We’re fully defensive!” JC called out her light Anubis was running at full speed putting out long range missiles and laser fire while Bradick’s heavier Gravedigger was firing a combination of its particle cannon, missiles and autocannon into one of the Ostrocs. From the facility two Anubis BattleMechs were joining the breakout. “We need help here”
“You called!” Wordie called out his Marshal landing behind the Ostrocs and in front of the two Anubis which he engaged with his particle cannon and three pulse lasers. Moments later Laing arrived as well his 8X variant Quickdraw raising the hand-held autocannon which burst out hitting one of the advancing Ostrocs. At the same time Raymond Parker added in his laser to the attack engaging the same Mech.
“Boss, we’ve got these guys pinned, there was a report of four attackers we should have them all here now.” Laing communicated seeing one of the Ostroc
“Understood, I’m sending in the Amazons” Grieg responded BattleMechs fall under a hail of fire. The Special Response Unit quickly moved onto the next target combining their fire to bring down the target while the Marshal contained the two Anubis BattleMechs. At the front of the facility the eight Amazon Battle Armour suits launched into the air jumping straight into the building smashing their way through facilities metal frontage shattering the glass. Shards of glass showered the ground in front of the building.
“Four Mechs down!” Bradick called out as the fourth Anubis fell under the heavy weapons fire weapons fire.
“Facility clear, no more subjects inside.” Greig reported after hearing from the Amazons. “Spike anymore signals?”
“Negative, but I wouldn’t drop the ECM net until we search the facility completely. These guys were willing to die when the first signal was sent.”
“Understood, good job team” Parker said from his command vehicle they would check the facility and find the explosives that had been left they also continued to protect the facility while intelligence teams searched for the culprits who attempted to blow up the facility. The intelligence teams eventually found a repeater in the facility which had been set to auto repeat, the owners of the equipment were gone. From the four BattleMechs they found that the four pilots had committed suicide in their cockpits, none of them carried identification of any type the mystery of who had attacked the BattleMech plant remained a mystery while the Fronc Reaches continued to spiral towards chaos. The only defenders of the Reaches, the Colonial Marshals, were fighting the issues but they couldn’t stop everything without politicians to help them the nation couldn’t recover. On multiple worlds individual planetary leaders were trying to gain enough favour to establish some control.
Parliament Meeting
Atreus, District of Marik
Free Worlds League
5th April 3117
The united Free Worlds League was still fractured in a dozen different ways and every time the Parliament met the fractures came to the surface. One of the main divergence points for the FWL was military strength and deployments of the units in its defence of all their differences one of the few things all of the Districts of the nation agreed on was that military forces should remain in their hands not parliaments.
While the Free Worlds League was different now than it was during the times that the Captain-General held all the power there was a still a fear of a collected military. The Free Worlds Protectors regiments had been seen as a compromise by all of the districts each unit had a combined-arms regiment which had a BattleMech Battalion, a battalion of vehicles, a battalion of battle armour and a regiment of infantry troops. Over time the brigade had grown to ten regiments in strength and they were under the direct command of Marshal Monica Meio and of the Free Worlds League parliament their job was to defend all of the FWL and support the combined defence of the nation.
Monica Meio had been born in the District in the Ionus system on one of the orbital habitats there but she had become a MechWarrior in the service of the District being drawn away from space. After years of service to the District of Marik she’d transferred from the District military into the Marik Protectors intending on creating a true Free Worlds League Armed Forces once more. The problem she found was that not everyone in the reborn FWL believed in a combined military force for the entire nation.
Now it was time for her to convince them in front of the gathered parliament she was dressed in her purple dress uniform waiting to be called. “Marshal Monica Meio” she heard her name called; she gave them several moments then stepped up onto the podium.
The Free Worlds League Parliament building was a large bowl-shaped arena with multiple levels of chairs overlooking a pit like area on the “floor” of the room. In all more than two hundred people could be arranged around the facility. In front of her speaker’s podium were tables and chairs for several of the staff members who kept the facility and the briefings going and at the far end Captain-General Joseph Marik sat listening.
“Elected members of parliament thank you for granting my audience today.” She said glancing around the room but attempting to maintain contact with the Captain-General she continued “it has been my honour to see the Free Worlds Protectors Brigade grow to ten regiments in strength, and we have now begun to roll out aerospace fighter wing and Pocket WarShip support to all regiments.” She explained “but we are asking for more.” She said “if we encounter an enemy WarShip my commands do not have the firepower to counter those forces. Each of your districts has WarShips but they have orders to protect your areas of interest, we are asking for integral WarShip support to be added to each Free Worlds Protector Regiment. We want the power to truly defend the nation and provide the defence that this realm and this parliament deserve.” She said before stepping down even as Monica marched from the Parliamentary Room, she could hear shouts of support and shouts against the plan, she had done her bit, she would spend the rest of 3117 ensuring that each of her regiments had at the very least an aerospace wing attached to them and preferably a squadron of Pocket WarShips as well.
The Parliament would discuss the proposal made by Marshal Monica Meio for the next week before an agreement would be reached. Instead of agreeing for each of the nations to donate a WarShip to the regiments a new design based on the ancient League-class Destroyer would be designed and built at each of the shipyards around the Free Worlds League. While this was considered to be a win for the Free Worlds Protectors the first of these new WarShips would not be available until at least 3122 leaving the protectors to continue to rely on District WarShips and Pocket WarShips for support.
Brunswick Flight Range
Camblam River, Brunswick
New Avalon, Crucis March
19th April 3117
High above the continent of Brunswick on New Avalon two Cutlass OmniFighters flew in tight circles after taking off from an airfield near Winchester now they were above the river of Camblam. “Time to show what you are capable of cadet the hard deck is one hundred metres.” The lead pilot Captain Sabrina Rodzik said glancing over at the other seventy-ton OmniFighter off her wing the pilot didn’t respond instead she saluted and then the other Cutlass began to pull up and to the right Rodzik pulled her own fighter up mirroring the other fighter’s movement. The lead fighter then began a steep dive towards the raging river. “Remember the hard deck is one hundred metres” she said diving her aircraft after the lead aircraft.
“Keep up, Captain” the lead pilot said following the raging river the two fighters banked heavily to the left side and then sharply to the right passing over pleasure boats and swimmers. They then banked sharply left again angling towards a river tunnel which would take it through the Omni Fighter side of a mountain.
“If you fly through that tunnel, you will fail your training, I don’t care who your father is.” Rodzik warned the lead aircraft. The aircraft continued to dive towards the tunnel but veered off to the right before it got within one hundred metres instead of following the river tunnel, they followed the open river rapidly banking to the left and right moving at pace towards their goal Brunswick City.
The two aircraft traveled quickly down river heading towards a series of bridges “this is not a good idea cadet. We’re well below the hard-deck!” Rodzik warned as the lead fighter continued to accelerate pulling out a lead from her fighter the lead Cutlass swing to the left as the river opened wider to show a group of bridges and merchant boats. Rodzik was unwilling to chance colliding with any of them but the lead pilot full of confidence and sure of her capabilities continued accelerate the Cutlass dived under the first bridge before swinging to the left turning the aircraft up on the edge of its wing as it traveled between two transport boats. The aircraft spun one hundred and eighty degrees placing the aircraft in a vertical position on its right wing as it passed under the second bridge. Finally, the aircraft accelerated quickly diving under the third and final bridge before pulling back upwards joining Rodzik in perfect formation.
“Was that entirely necessary Cadet?”
“Not entirely” she admitted “but it was a lot of fun.”
“Know this Cadet Davion your father may be the First Prince but those antics will not be accepted when you are serving this great nation.” Rodzik said she knew she was speaking Princess Leah Davion, the second in line to the Throne of the Federated Suns, but she needed to understand as she grew up there were rules that would need to be followed.
“I know, Captain, this was the last time I would have this chance to have a bit of fun with the job.” Leah Davion replied as the two aircraft banked over Brunswick City “I chose this life, Captain, I want to serve our nation and support my father’s rule. I know what comes with this job.” She said she’d heard stories all of her life from her parents and grand-parents about the life of service that she was joining she had life easy until now and now she’d serve the nation.
As Leah Davion joined the Armed Forces of the Federated Suns the military of their nation secured control over Tannil on the Draconis Combine border. The defenders also faced Combine troops on their own soil Reisling’s Planet, Barlow’s Folly, Matar and Homam as the Draconis Combine began a counter attack. On the other side of the realm the Fifth Tikonov Cossacks Regimental Combat Team win a Trial of Possession against Clan Nova Cat for control over the Steinhatchee system.
Reinforcements, SLDF Forward Operating Base
Horseshoe Valley, Freedom
Isle of Skye, Lyran Commonwealth
29th April 3117
The Collosus-class DropShip landed along with several others bringing reinforcements to the 208th Hussar Regimental Brigade which was based on Freedom supporting the planet’s resistance to Clan occupation. The BattleMechs and vehicles began to file out of the DropShip and were directed to their spots on the massive Forward Operating Base a thirty-five-ton BLD-XR Blade BattleMech filed out of the DropShip along with the others. Inside the cockpit recently graduated Lieutenant Ezekiel Crow guided his BattleMech towards its berthing with its new unit. Lieutenant Crow was older than most new pilots at twenty-eight years old but as an immigrant from Liao he had several loops to jump through before joining the Star League Defence Force and now he had graduated he was ready to serve in the defence of the Inner Sphere.
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You got Team Flashpoint right :thumbsup:
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Time for some pay off on what has been set up to date.
Counter-attack
Marius’ Tears
Periphery
2nd May 3117
In the battered volcanic landscape of Marius’ Tears Captain Schuyler McCoy brought his modified Archer BattleMech down on top of the Fennec BattleMech cutting down through the air with the Mech’s hatchet decapitating the arm less BattleMech, it was his fifth Mech kill as his unit’s McCoy’s Malcontents counter-attacked throughout the canyons that the Cohors Morituri made their home. Already his unit had destroyed more than a company of enemy BattleMechs and more than a company of vehicles during the fighting he had lost three of his own ten MechWarriors, and he knew he would lose more in the course of the day.
He pulled his hatchet from the downed BattleMech and he turned towards their goal, the enemy encampment, he raised his particle cannon which was mounted on the underside of the opposite arm firing a bolt of lightning into the enemy base blowing apart one of the rooms. “Continue to pour it on!” McCoy shouted moving his Mech forwards a Javelin BattleMech ran past him peppering his Mech with short range missiles blowing open the armour on the Archer’s right side but not causing an armour penetration, McCoy returned fire with his own short range missile launchers and added in all four medium lasers as well. The return fire tore open the lighter Mech and the Javelin fell to the ground. The heat produced by the lasers and missile fire roared into the cockpit of the Archer as he continued forwards.
“Two, we need cover!” He shouted angrily at the second lance which were about two hundred metres behind his lance, both units were short on Mechs due to combat losses but they had all of the unit’s Ravager Battle Armour and their six vehicles.
“Affirmative Captain, there are a dozen alleys that they can come out of, the faster more mobile units are causing trouble for us.” Leading Gunner Faris Scherwiz replied, “I’ve staggered the unit to cover more ground but the faster units are passing quicker than we can react.”
“Do what you can, One move forward obliterate the base and barracks.” He ordered there were three BattleMechs left in his leading lance and all three moved forwards he saw Amanda Cavalcanti bring down a pair of Flea BattleMechs with heavy blows from her Cataphracts autocannon and then particle cannon.
From behind the base a Firestarter BattleMech ran out and began spraying the command lances Highlander with several flamethrowers. The Highlander’s pilot Tom Ayrton returned fire with a devastating volley of eighteen short range missiles which blew the Firestarter’s leg completely off the BattleMech. Two laser blasts cored the Firestarter’s cockpit killing the downed pilot.
“THIS IS WHAT YOU WANTED!” McCoy said angrily walking up the building firing a volley of short-range missiles into it. He raised the Mech’s hatchet and brought it down on the side of the building caving in the side of the building. “You came to my home; you killed my people. Today you pay the price.” He said slamming the BattleMech through a wall moments later the Cataphract fired its autocannon into another part of the building dozens of people were running from the far side of the building.
“They are evacuating” Amanda Cavalcanti said seeing people escaping from the building Tom Ayrton’s Highlander stepped up and suddenly spat eighteen more short range missiles targeting the running people the ground exploded all around them and the civilians stopped moving.
“Mercenary HOLD FIRE! Those people are helpless.” Another male voice came on McCoy’s Archer’s sensors it registered behind his position turning he saw a lance of BattleMechs remained all of them ancient designs a Galahad, a Talos, a Pheonix and a Hammerhand all Mechs that used to be housed in his father’s hanger.
“Thieves, rapists and murderers all of you” Schuyler McCoy seethed over the radio angry at the sight of the Mechs in enemy hands and the memories of all the losses they had taken. “Stand down immediately and I’ll grant you a quick death.” He cursed
“We are… we are willing to surrender in exchange for safe passage to a neutral system…” McCoy didn’t know who fired first only that it was not him. The Hammerhand went down first in a hail of fire, the Galahad followed quickly after it as gauss rifles, missiles, autocannons and particle cannons tore through the fifty-ton Mech. The Talos turned and tried to run only for a gauss rifle slug from Ayrton’s Highlander to tear through the back of the Mech and tear out the gyroscope. The Pheonix was last another fifty-ton Mech like the Talos and Galahad had no chance against five enemy Mechs, the pilot at least tried to fight back but he had no choice.
None of the remaining Malcontents stopped firing until the entire base was torn down to rubble and not a single survivor remained alive. In all the Malcontents had lost half the personnel they had brought to Marius Tears but they had destroyed more than three times their number, with much of it salvageable, cutting down their enemies in a hail of vengeful fire and hopefully safeguarding their home for the immediate future at least.
Later that night the DropShip laden with salvage lifted off from Marius Tears and began heading back towards their JumpShip. In total the Malcontents had lost more than twenty members of their unit and support staff, Schuyler McCoy had no idea how many of the civilians on Whittington had been lost sitting in his quarters onboard the ship he began to try and figure out what he could have done differently, it was the largest loss he’d ever had and far larger than anything his father had lost.
The alarm bell rang he got up and crossed the small quarters, the door slid open. “Amanda” he said seeing Amanda Cavalcanti standing there in a navy set of work coveralls, she’d been helping the techs repair their remaining equipment and she was covered in grease. Her hair was beginning to grow back and tied at the back of her head. “Come in please” he said crossing the small quarters he sat at the corner table while Amanda crossed the quarters and sat on his bed
“how go the repairs?”
“Messy” she said raising her dirt covered hands “how are you?”
“Trying to make sense of all of this, we haven’t even crossed paths with them before and they come to our home and they kill our people.” He said angrily
“We have done the same Boss” she said looking at him with hard eyes “it’s how I joined this unit.” She said harshly she saw him looking at her angrily “I know, you didn’t target civilian settlements and I know you wouldn’t but we do attack others and take what we need. Perhaps they needed our Mechs, the ones we encountered in the final battle, Whittington is a valuable target.”
“But to target the civilians…”
“Some people don’t care who they hit.” Cavalcanti said “listen Shu if I found out that you were that kind of man after you’d captured me, I wouldn’t be sitting here today.”
“So why are you here?”
“You got me a better Mech” she said smirking looking at him “I wanted to serve in a unit, this unit has slowly become home. I’ve found a reason to stay.”
“So why are you ‘here’” he asked meaning his quarters this time.
“Well, you have a working shower” she said smirking opening her coveralls raising to her feet Schuyler also rose to his feet he couldn’t help himself, he moved over to her. “I’m covered in dirt”
“I have a shower” he said reaching out to her.
“Yes, you do and we’ll definitely need it” she said joining him in an embrace giving in to the basic needs of companionship, love, lust and shared grief. They had all lost friends and family when Whitting had been attacked and in their revenge mission on Marius Tears but perhaps these two also gained something.
Planetary Assaults
Fronc Reaches
Periphery
10th May 3117
As the Fronc Reaches continues to fall further into a confused state its neighbours, the two nations that supported its founding as the “New Colony Region” fall on the state like wolves attacking cornered prey. From both sides of the nation troops land under the guise of peacekeepers with the Magistracy of Canopus deploying its four newest regiments, the Canopian Lancer Brigade. These units have been raised using equipment purchased when the Canopian Magestix has served as the First Lord of the Star League Defence Force with each of the units trained against the best the Magistracy has to offer. The four regiments have also been reinforced by dozens of ex-Clansmen mainly from the Mountain Wolf Clan in the Lyran Commonwealth who have fled prosecution by the Lyrans and are hiding in the Periphery. Most of these warriors simply wish to die an honourable death and happily throw themselves into combat against the Fronc Reaches defenders as the Magistracy annex Joppa, Ur Cruinne, Cygnus and Addisar. During the fighting the Fourth and Eleventh Colonial Marshals are completely destroyed while the Twelfth are forced to retreat.
On the other side of the Fronc Reaches the Taurian Concordat follow a similar strategy to that taken by the Magistracy landing troops on several worlds in rapid succession but unlike the bloodthirsty Canopian units the Taurians allow the defenders to leave challenging them to make the right choice and defend worlds they can hold. In all Carthage, Asphode, Hellespont, Miridem and Argos fall to the Taurian forces with skirmishes only taking place on Carthage and Argos.
Within the Fronc Reaches news of what exactly happened on Fronc begins to cascade through the nation as courier JumpShips and HPGs carry messages between the stars. Follow up news stories of these attack from outwith the small periphery nation further begin to galvanize the population to take up arms and defend their homes from outside aggression in the nation’s time of need.
Clan Invasion
District of Midway, Draconis Combine
21st May 3117
The plan drawn up by the four Clans on Falakuma is brought into reality as Clan Snow Raven, Clan Lynx and Clan Sea Fox all assault the Draconis Combine. With the defenders already heavily engaged with the District of Dieron, Rasalhague Dominion and Federated Suns in various systems the last thing they are prepared for is another three Clans to attack them. The forces that the Draconis Combine did have in the area were concentrated around New Samarkand and Midway giving the Ravens almost unhindered access into the territory capturing the Tiflis, Goubellat, Budingen and Valentina systems.
On the back of the Raven assaults Clan Sea Fox move their trading hub from Falakuma to Sverdlovsk landing two Clusters of troops on the world seizing it for Clan Sea Fox. They offer the one consolation to the Draconis Combine that they will continue to trade with them. As for the people of Falakuma they are completely freed from Clan rule and given their own system back but without any defences, as the Sea Foxes took all of their own manufacturing with them there is little to take from Falakuma except the people.
As the Ravens and Sea Foxes assault the Draconis Combine from one side the Lynx Clan, reinforced by several clusters of equipment that come from Clan Nova Cat’s factories, invades from almost the complete other striking at the Herndon Prefecture driving through the Chupadero, Jeanette, Matamoras, McAlister and Herndon systems in a series of rapid attacks driving towards Pesht. Only in the Herndon system do the Lynx Clan face serious opposition, the Nineteenth Pesht Regulars, a brigade of three combined-arms regiments. While the Lynx lose two Clusters of troops, they are able to overcome the Nineteenth and capture the world.
While the Rasalhague Dominion had not been part of the discussions between the four Clans on Falakuma there were troops within the Rasalhague Dominion itching to get involved in the fighting but had not been called to serve on the District of Dieron front. Now with Watch agents informing them of the Lynx movement on the border the Rasalhague Dominion garrison troops take it upon themselves to move against the Draconis Combine flooding the area between them and the Lynx Clan. In all six systems are attacked by seven Clusters of the Rasalhague Dominion with all six falling to the invading Clan forces. While the Third Kavalleri Infantry Cluster are completely destroyed on Wolcott the Cluster of primarily Infantry and Battle Armour troops is the only total loss for the Rasalhague Dominion as Wolcott, Bangor, Byesville, Jeronimo, Marshdale and Labrea all fall to the Clan forces.
In all by the end of June, when the last assaults on Labrea and Sverdlovsk are completed, the Draconis Combine has lost seventeen systems. True to their word Clan Nova Cat supplies each of the three Clans it met with additional war material to support their assaults on the Draconis Combine. In exchange the Nova Cats are given access to multiple mining sites within Clan Lynx’s territory.
The Nova Cats also keep the Federated Suns eyes focused on the Nova Cats instead of attacks against the Ravens back by declaring Trials of Possession against Azeban, Okenfenokee, Offerman, Shawnee, Anjin Muerto and Tsamma. All of these Trials are at the most a reinforced battalion against a front-line Cluster the Nova Cats are successful in four of the Trials capturing Azeban, Okenfenokee, Offerman and Shawnee but they are forced off Anjin Muerto and Tsamma. Into June and the Federated Suns return the favour against the Nova Cats striking at Des Arc, Metter, Brockton and Crofton. They are beat back off of Crofton, Des Arc and Metter but Brockton falls to the Federated Suns forces, the Nova Cats block every jump point out of Anjin Muerto intent on starving out the defending regiments.
Unknown invader
Kane, Cirincus Federation
Periphery
26th May 3117
On the virtually barren windswept world of Kane at the far edge of the Cirincus Federation Hawke’s Horde were trying to go straight for the first time in their career. They had for a long time been guns for hire on the Free Worlds League periphery border selling their services to the highest bidder and taking advantage of those who couldn’t defend themselves. But now they’d signed on with the Cirincus Federation to try and hold the small battered nation together.
Kane wasn’t a nice place to live but the materials the locals dug from the ground, sometimes using their bare hands, was very valuable and they tried to make the most of their lives. Now the Hawke’s Horde called the planet home as well and so far, the only thing going for it as far as Fellnir Hawke was concerned was the air was breathable. Now it appeared his company of BattleMechs would actually have to fight a battle for the planet as the base’s long-range sensors detected incoming BattleMechs, at least a company of them thundering towards their position.
Sitting in the heaviest Mech his unit had an aging Warhammer Hawke waited for contact the sensors registered the incoming Mechs and he warmed up the two particle cannons ready for combat. Suddenly his visual sensors showed him what his sensors had been seeing twelve identical BattleMechs each with stylized armour making them look like an ancient warrior from old Terra each of them was identical each carrying a sword and shield and each was eighty tons in weight, each was also charging at more than ninety kilometres per hour.
“Let them have it!” He screamed into his radio firing both particle cannons at one Mech one of the cannons went wide while the other struck the left leg of one of the approaching Mechs. Across his battle line lasers, autocannons and missiles flew towards the incoming Mechs each hit causing minor damage but the enemy Mechs continued to charge.
Almost as one the twelve Mech fired opal coloured pulse laser blasts; every shot hit their target on one of the Firestarter Mechs of Hawke’s company the left arm completely disappeared under the hit then the machine gun ammunition inside the BattleMech exploded causing the entire thirty-five-ton Mech to explode in a ball of flames.
The remains of Hawke’s Horde continued to fire against the incoming Mechs Hawke included causing damage to the enemy Mechs. Several of the enemy Mechs deflected heavy hits intended on causing heavy damage against them by using their huge shields before twisting and firing again. Within moments the enemy Mechs were in among the Horde firing their pulse lasers and torso mounted short range missiles into their targets. Explosions rocked the defending BattleMechs and these were quickly followed by the slice of a Mech sized-sword which cut through BattleMech armour and structure like a knife through butter.
Hawke tried to defend himself from attacks by two enemy Mechs he fired his particle cannons, lasers, missiles and machine guns trying to hold back the targets but everything he did didn’t matter. He was unable to hold them back and the two enemy Mechs swung their swords almost as one the first sword cut through the left arm mounted particle cannon shattering the weapon causing an electrical explosion which rocked Hawke’s Mech on its footing. The second sword swung low slicing though the right knee of the Warhammer taking the limb off at the knee. Hawke fought to control his Mech but it was a fight against gravity and he couldn’t win it both enemy Mechs peppered his with short range missiles as it fell before plunging their swords into the Warhammer again. Hawke had no chance of winning this battle and tried to surrender by shutting down his systems but one of the enemy Mechs stood over the Warhammer’s cockpit and fired its pulse laser into the head of the Mech.
Hawke’s Horde as a unit tried one-by-one to surrender as a form of survival but there was no chance and the company were all killed. Under orders from their new occupiers the population continued to mine minerals from the planet preparing quantities to go back into the Cirincus Federation. However, without Cirincus knowing the new occupiers also brought new mining equipment in making the process easier on the population, they also brought in supplies that made the people’s lives easier essentially buying their silence but allowing the new occupiers to remain in charge. Because life was hard on Kane none of the population were willing to speak out about the change in regime and because materials continued to flow Cirincus did not question what had happened.
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so what did the Hawke’s Horde run into??
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so what did the Hawke’s Horde run into??
Who knows, going to be interesting to find out though.
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so what did the Hawke’s Horde run into??
Who knows, going to be interesting to find out though.
They've featured before just not so public. Nor the whole taking territory thing that's new
Bombing Range
Outskirts Montenegro, Solaris VII
Independent Clan Space
8th June 3117
Following two years since the successful introduction of conventional fighter races on Solaris VII the Solaris Racing League Commission introduce a bombing competition as another form of entertainment featuring conventional fighters. In the inageral competition Claudia Dreyfuss from the Lyran Commonwealth piloting a Defender Medium Strike Fighter is victorious winning the competition. In the days following the first bombing competition the first race of the new Solaris Racing League season also takes place long term racer Jonnie Mjalby is victorious once again at the San Bardo Racing Circuit.
Trials of Possession
Rasalhague District, Rasalhague Dominion
Periphery
11th June 3117
With the Rasalhague Dominion continuing to strip its Touman from defensive positions on their inner worlds moving them to forward operating positions against the Draconis Combine and District of Dieron the Clan’s at their back see an opportunity for expansion of their own. Coordinating their attacks so the two Clans do not strike at the same worlds Clan Hell’s Horses take control over the Rasalhague Dominion systems of Kirchbach, The Edge, Rodigo, Alleghe, St John and Liezen only being stopped by a spirited defence on New Bearclaw by the Sixth Claw Cluster. In a similar move the Coyotes take control over the Hohenems, Kufstein and Radstadt systems in Trials of Possession against what little troops have been left to protect they systems. The loss of the Radstadt system is particularly hard for the Rasalhague Dominion as it is a system deep inside the nation, the site of a massive aerospace construction facility and of a large creche training facility for the Tseng Bloodhouse. In the process of the Coyote victory three warriors with Tseng Bloodnames are captured by the Coyotes giving the Clan access to the Bloodhouse into the next generation.
Trial of Possession
Basecamp, Algedi
District of Dieron
22nd June 2117
Warlord Akira Tormark marched into the Headquarters hut of the District of Dieron’s forces on Algedi. For three weeks the District’s forces had fought and died on Algedi trying to hold back the Rasalhague Dominion’s forces. Four regiments of District of Dieron forces had already died while an estimated three Cluster’s of Bears had also been lost. Walking up towards the portable holo-tank Tormark looked at the deployments of his remaining forces almost all of his remaining regiments were at most seventy-five percent in strength and now they’d suffered a morale loss with the death of former Coordinator Akira Kurita. The former Draconis Combine Coordinator had led the defence of Algedi from the front and been killed when his Sunder OmniMech had been ripped apart by a Kodiak II BattleMech, he had fought the Bears to a standstill allowing several others to escape, Tormark hoped that he would find peace now in death after being haunted for so long since his family’s death when he was replaced as Coordinator of the Draconis Combine.
“Activate the HPG link to Dieron” he ordered the staff who were manning stations around the room within moments the image of Empress Emiko Kurita appeared. “My love, it is my duty to inform that Akira Kurita has been slain in battle.” He said she was somehow able to keep her composure “we have lost two thirds of our forces and I would suggest we will face our final battle within the coming weeks. I will fall in the defence of our nation, but remember I love you; it is now up to you to ensure our children grow up in freedom.”
“Fight well and with honour” she said addressing him directly, “serve our nation and understand we are all within you.” She said “I will do what is necessary to protect our people.” She promised him before the link was cut.
“Transmit to all forces, we hold as long as we can. Continue to try and raise the Ghost Bear Khans on the comm. I want to speak to them and discuss our final battle, we will give them time to face us and we will bring them to a final defeat.” He ordered he knew his remaining three regiments couldn’t hold back the Bears but he had decided he would try.
Objective Raid
Manufacturing Plant SSF-SP2
Ideyld, Sea Fox Controlled Space
28th June 3117
The combined-arms mercenary battalion known as Wyld’s Jokers, under the command of Tassa Kay, raids the Sea Fox manufacturing plant on Ideyld challenging the Sea Foxes to a Trial of Possession over what was being manufactured at the plant. The Sea Fox commander accepts the challenge and the First Starstrike Shoal Cluster was arrayed against the Jokers on an open field.
“We hit them hard and fast” Kay ordered her troops, they trusted her and she believed they needed to engage in this raid to keep the unit alive. “The Shoal Clusters are garrison units’ older units and failed warriors who don’t experience facing a frontal assault often. They are used to facing raids from pirates not an organised assault force. We hit them and we keep going, hovercraft maintain the flanks, Battle Armour initiate swarm attacks as you come to targets.” She ordered the units without giving them a moment longer she activated the comm again “Charge!”
The Wyld’s Jokers moved forward quickly with Kay’s Ryoken II moving quickly at the front its particle cannons alive as she charged the enemy. One blast and then another ripped across Clan Sea Fox units burning away armour and pitting the enemy targets. Kay’s particle cannons found the cockpit of two BattleMechs in a row as she reached shorter range, in among the Sea Fox BattleMechs, vehicles and infantry Kay unloaded volley after volley of short-range missiles taking out several other units as her command pushed through their lines.
“Come around, we’re going through them again!” She ordered looking at their losses she’d lost two Mechs, four vehicles and six battle armoured troopers in the initial encounter. “Swift Wing, strike them now!” She ordered switching the comm to a secondary comm circuit. From above the Sea Fox unit four aerospace forces dived through the clouds blowing through the picket aircraft deployed by the Sea Foxes. Only two of the Jokers made it to their target but their attack led to the entire Sea Fox force being carpeted by inferno jelly setting BattleMechs, vehicles and infantry on fire with sticky burning jelly. “Back through them!”
The remaining Jokers charged together breaking through the Sea Fox lines taking out several more of the enemy units who were weakened by the inferno attack. Several of the Jokers also fell but the mercenary command remained intact coming out the other side. “This is Tassa Kay to Sea Fox force, I understand there is a clan ritual known as Hegira. I offer you that now before you completely lose your command.” She broadcast as the Jokers came around for another pass through the crippled Sea Fox Cluster. “Jokers prepare for another pass!” She ordered in the last attack several of the Jokers had combined their fire taking out extra Sea Fox units but it also meant the next time they attacked the Clansmen would also be released from their dueling laws.
“Mercenary force, we accept Hegira, the field is yours” a male Sea Fox warrior replied a few moments before Kay ordered another charge.
“And our Isorla?”
“When you are ready, we will release a Trinary of Stalking Spider II BattleMechs as agreed” the Sea Fox commander said. The salvage from the held battlefield would make up for their losses while the Trinary of Isorla would allow the Jokers to form a second combined arms battalion making them an even more potent force. As the Jokers had held the field, they were allowed to leave unmolested by the Sea Foxes.
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Wow, these past years have been brutal and intense.
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Wow, these past years have been brutal and intense.
You want intense? To quote Sir Michael Caine it's time to "Blow the Bloody doors off" and have a bit of fun. There are moments in this next update I have planned for years and I mean years. And there are surprises in this update that aren't even the biggest ones to come. >:D
Battlefield
Algedi, District of Dieron
2nd July 3117
In the last month two additional regiments of District of Dieron warriors had been killed attempting to hold control of Alegdi from the Rasalhague Dominion, it had resulted in the deaths of Rasalhague Dominion Khan Michael Hawkins and Loremaster Boris Jorgensson gutting the Clan’s leadership. Unfortunately, all of the defenders’ efforts had been in vain and among all of the death and destruction around them Warlord Akira Tormark had been forced to admit defeat.
Walking through the wreckage the Warlord approached a small clearing in front him stood saKhan Angela Bekkar, the now de-facto leader of the Rasalhague Dominion. “Warlord Tormark, are you ready to end this trial, Quiaff?” She asked as he approached in a half moon crescent around his position, he saw several more Ghost Bear warriors stood watching.
“I am” he said keeping his head bowed low
“And with it the District of Dieron will also surrender as agreed?”
“What’s left of it will surrender.” He spoke carefully picking his words not announcing a full surrender, which was what the Ghost Bears had demanded.
“Which means what exactly?”
“You have targeted us when we were not the aggressor who started this war.” He said “the Draconis Combine have claimed many of our worlds, the Federated Suns and Lyran Commonwealth have also taken many worlds.” He explained
“And the remains will be turned over to the Rasalhague Dominion without a fight, Quiaff?” She repeated becoming frustrated
“Aff, the District of Dieron will not resist you further on our remaining worlds.” He said “but I cannot be held accountable to the actions taken by those individual worlds.”
“What does that mean?”
“I was informed before coming here that certain worlds have already decided that the Rasalhague Dominion will not be their new leadership.” Akira Tormark finally said looking up seeing Angela Bekker’s face he smiled
“And who will they now answer to? Your nation has been torn into by all of your neighbours, you have fought against them, now what will they do?”
“Turn to another nation.” Tormark said drawing it out further “the Star League Protectorate have taken over stewardship over the systems of Dieron, Styx, Atherny, Pike, Kervil, Telos and Al Na’ir. All the defence forces for those worlds will answer to the SLDF.” He said “the other worlds, what’s left of them will be yours.” In total including the world they stood on the Rasalhague Dominion would take control of ten new systems but the two prizes of the nation Dieron, with its shipyard, and Al Na’ir, with its multiple BattleMech factories would not go to the Rasalhague Dominion.
“You cannot do that!” Bekker shouted angrily her Clan had been hurt in this war, and there was more fighting to be done even after today, the factories and shipyards of the remaining systems would make the prize worthy of those sacrifices and fuel the Dominion’s continued battles.
“I did not, Empress Omiko Kurita, the guardian of Dieron has decided the fate of her people.”
“I will make the rest of those worlds surrender to us.” She snapped angrily
“But as of this morning they are not part of the District of Dieron which was party to your trial Clanswoman, they are part of the Star League Protectorate now, good luck in…” Tormark didn’t finish his taunt instead there was a crack of a sidearm firing and Akira Tormark was taken down by a shot to the head. Angela Bekkar stood there in stunned silence as she stared at the corpse beside her, she saw Star Colonel Ruben Mansdotter holding his weapon.
“What have you done?” She snapped angrily he looked at her stunned at her reaction and began to speak “we were in a Circle of Equals! He was under a flag of truce!” She said turning towards him “now you have you broken a Circle, marking my honour and putting at risk our agreement with the District!” She continued he began to speak “words cannot answer for this Star Colonel, you will meet me in a Circle of Equals!” She said looking at the corpse once more before moving away.
The Rasalhague Dominion took control over the remaining worlds within the next few days ten systems in total with little to no resistance from any of the worlds. True to Tormark’s words the remaining seven worlds now benefited from SLDF reinforcements both on the ground and in space. While the Rasalhague Dominion most likely still held an advantage over the Inner Sphere defences the combined strength of the Protectorate forces and its navy had given them a significant boost in strength.
On Algedi the Rasalhague Dominion allow the remaining two regiments of District of Dieron forces to retreat from the world among them is Tai-sa Harold Nakayama of the shattered Forty-third District of Dieron Regulars he was pryed out of the cockpit of his broken Akuma BattleMech and evacuated into the Protectorate alone with the remains of his battalion which had taken the name Nakayama’s Blood during the battles on Dieron. The unit had a hatred of all things Clan from its warriors to its technology refusing to take any within their command instead of signing on with the Star League forces the unit goes independent and becomes a mercenary command.
From the forces the District of Dieron provide the Star League Protectorate there is enough to field a heavily under-strength Division of troops for the SLDF when reconstituted to Star League standards along with five WarShips. The shipyard and factories taken as part of the District would in time help reinforce these units but the once powerful District’s forces had been reduced to an almost negligible strength. Under Star League Protectorate governance, Dieron and its other worlds are added to the Northwind EDZ initially until a decision was made on how the worlds of the former District would be treated.
For the Rasalhague Dominion’s part the nation had lost nearly three Galaxies worth of troops along with four WarShips, their Khan and Loremaster. Once dispatching Star Colonel Jorgensson in a Circle of Equals Angela Bekkar became the next Khan of the Rasalhague Dominion and the rebuilding began. In an effort to recognize the newly captured worlds new position within the Dominion but also their previous position the new Khan names Algedi as the capital of a new Algedi District which will administer the worlds around it for the Rasalhague Dominion and institutes a massive rebuilding and investment program in the newly captured worlds. The Rasalhague Dominion also now has to contend with a longer border with the Draconis Combine than ever before and new borders with the powerful nations of the Federated Suns and Star League Protectorate.
Bridge, Spirit of Northumberland (Endeavour-class Exploration Vessel)
Uncharted System
Deep Periphery
18th July 3117
At just over two hundred light years from the Free Worlds League’s periphery border and probably close to fifty light years from the Magistracy of Canopus the Spirit of Northumberland, the one and only Endeavour-class Exploration Vessel in operation, was at the point of turning around and heading back to the Inner Sphere. So far while they had ventured deep into the periphery and found many things, they had not discovered anything that would radically benefit the District of Lesnovo or the Free Worlds League. On the vessel’s command deck Captain Bruce Barnes watched his displays light up as the ship’s powerful sensors detected almost two dozen ships in close proximity to the jump point alarm bells sounded loudly. “Report” Barnes said from his command chair.
“We have three ships that can only be described as WarShips one of them is over a million tons!” The sensor operator Zhi Wei said looking up from his station before looking back at the sensor screen “the other two are smaller, but still approximately eight hundred thousand tons in gross weight.” He said looking at the data “the rest are no larger than twenty-five thousand tons… that can’t be right…”
“What is it, Wei?”
“Sir, I’m detecting Kearny-Fuchida readings from all of them” Wei said, jump core signals, from that number of small ships was unheard of. “All of them also have at least some damage.”
“Someone has access to some serious manufacturing capabilities.” Barnes said
“Aye, sir.”
“Captain, transmission coming in from the large ship an Admiral Alessandra Schiavon representing the Amaris Empire Remnant.” Lieutenant Eric Labotka from communications said.
“You’re fraking kidding me?” Barnes said stunned the Amaris Empire fell during the First Star League’s Civil War when the SLDF took revenge on Stefan Amaris the Usurper for his murder of the First Lord Richard Cameron and his family.
“Negative, sir”
“Put them on” he ordered
“I repeat this is Admiral Alessandra Schiavon of the Amaris Empire Remnant we are ready to offer our immediate surrender to the forces of the Star League Defence Force.” The voice said
“Hell” Barnes commented as Schiavon continued.
“We warn you that this system is not safe and we require immediate supplies, support and evacuation when possible.”
“What have we walked into?” Barnes wondered as the message began to repeat.
“Sir, further contact! Burning towards the Jump Point at maximum range, I count four, five… no six capital contacts! At their current speed they’ll be here in fourteen hours”
“What in the…” Barnes began but Wei interrupted “sir, they are Casper Drones!”
“Get me on line with Schiavon now!” He ordered “Engineering, this is the Captain, I want you to begin a slow charge of the KF drive the minimum needed to ensure we can jump in fourteen hours.”
“It’ll risk the drive but we’ll do what we can.”
“Captain, I have Schiavon on comms” Labotka said
“This is Captain Bruce Barnes of the Spirit of Northumberland to Admiral Schiavon please respond.”
“Captain, welcome to the Illion system, what’s left of it anyway.” Schiavon began “do you represent the Star League? Our sensors recognize the design of your vessel as a prototype Star League vessel.”
“Negative, we represent the District of Lesnovo of the Free Worlds League.” Barnes replied letting it sink in for a moment “we are here on a peaceful mission of exploration. How did you get here?”
“The Free Worlds League has expanded this far?” Schiavon said surprised “can you offer us assistance?”
“We are exploring space we don’t have the resources to fight off six Casper Drones.”
“We will be ready to jump to Cydonis in fourteen hours if you are?” Schiavon asked
“Yes, we’ll be ready.” Barnes replied confident his engineering team would be ready “at Cydonis will we be safe?”
“For a period of time” Schiavon said “we should be able to resupply at one of our repair caches before the Caspers track us. Captain, I need to attend to my people if you cannot assist us militarily, then we can discuss this further when we are at Cydonis? We’ll transfer you the jump coordinates.”
“Of course,” Barnes replied cutting the link “I want sensors to check every single ship in this flotilla and prepare an inter system probe send it towards the Caspers see if we can glean some information on them too.”
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Fourteen hours later the Caspers entered range of the weapons of the fleet both of the smaller ships of the Remnant fleet which the Spirit of Northumberland had been informed was classed as a Grozny-class Frigates had turned their broadsides towards the Caspers each ship acted like a small McKenna-class Battleship, their sides lined wth Heavy Navy Particle Cannons. Together they began to fill space with weapons fire trying to bring down the incoming Caspers. The Fearless-class Assault Ship, which was Schiavon’s flagship, did the same adding Medium Naval Particle Cannons to the mix.
“Incoming return fire” Wei reported the three capital ships countered the incoming capital missiles with their own Barracuda capital missiles while the capital lasers and particle cannons weren’t as accurate at this range. All around the Spirit small ships were jumping in groups to escape the system. The approaching Caspers had done something that the Star Leagues couldn’t, each of them had launched a wing of aerospace fighters which were also charging towards them.
"We are being ordered by Schiavon to jump clear.” Labotka commented from the side of the bridge.
“Negative, we remain until the last of the small craft are clear.” During their time in the system with the fleet Barnes had learned that the small craft all carried civilians, what was left of the Empire’s civilian population. They had also learned that the “Empire” once had four well developed systems the people all of them descendants of the people who had once populated the Terran Hegemony when it was ruled by Stefan Amaris, they had left during the Liberation campaign sneaking through SLDF’s lines with three WarShips and half a dozen JumpShips. Amaris wanted them to set up before he arrived, the plan being for Stefan to retreat from Terra should the SLDF reach the planet on his dedicated WarShip RWS Stefan’s Audacity. Amaris had never arrived instead the people had settled on the worlds and built up the four colonies breaking up their JumpShips for parts while keeping the three WarShips as museum pieces. Like the people of the Star League, they had built shipyards and vessels able to transport their populations between worlds but they had also built Casper drones fearful that the Star League would find them. Everything had been peaceful in the systems for centuries until about twenty years ago when something had gone wrong with the Caspers and now they were hunting the civilian population with only the three WarShips capable of defending them.
As one of the Caspers exploded in a ball of flames one of the two Grozny-class vessels took a particle cannon hit from the approaching Caspers armour burned and fell away from the WarShip as the last civilian ship jumped away. “Fortuna is jumping” Wei said naming the damaged Frigate, “Medea is also charging its drive” he said looking over.
“Navigation, lock course, helm, jump when ready” Barnes finally said watching the two Grozny-class ships jump clear. As the enemy fighters descended on the Calypso, the Fearless-class Assault Ship, which would be last to leave the sensors on the Spirit registered two particle cannon hits on the vessel before the Spirit itself jumped clear.
Moments passed and there was no sign of Schiavon’s flagship then finally the battered WarShip appeared. “Message from Calypso, they welcome us to the Cydonis system we should have at least a week before local patrols find us, meanwhile we are to fall in with the fleet as they head to one of their supply depots.” Labotka said Barnes sat shaking his head at what they had witnessed, they were on the run from drones built by an Empire long thought extinct it was like something out of a science fiction movie.
Inbound flight
El Dorado, Markesan Operational Area
Crucis March, Federated Suns
19th July 3117
In the heart of the Federated Suns the system of El Dorado had little to fear from external threats but as a jewel of the Succession State and the heart of technology and manufacturing it was also a prize worthy of defence as a result the Sixth New Avalon Guards RCT defended the world. As her carrier craft had required maintenance at a different base Leftenant Duchess Leah Davion and her wingman had launched before they entered the atmosphere and now the two Cutlass OmniFighters were cruising over the beautiful world.
Cruising her aircraft over the ground below Leah hated that she’d been deployed to a “safe” world knowing her father had something to do with it ensuring she’d gone somewhere trouble wouldn’t follow. “Tower this is Cutlass Flight, inbound on base from east requesting permission to be allowed to land.” She called out on the radio but there wasn’t an immediate answer. “Tower this is Cutlass flight copy?”
“Affirmative, Cutlass you are cleared to land at runway one, traffic is clear.” The tower finally responded.
“Received Cutlass One and Two inbound” she said turning the seventy-ton aircraft towards the planet behind her the second Cutlass followed closely maintaining formation “down we go Two, stay on my wing.”
“Affirmative One, I’m on your wing.” Both aircraft continued to descend towards the surface their landing gear lowering as they closed on the surface, the two Cutlass landed within moments of each other touching the hard ferrocrete rolling to a stop. Leah was surprised that no-one had approached them on the runway.
“Guess we’re taxing” she said glancing over at the other Cutlass. The two aircraft rolled across the runway onto a taxi lane and towards one of the massive hangers at the entrance of the hanger there was a Rapier Aerospace Fighter so she guessed this was the right place. The two aircraft entered the hanger and Leah saw a group of people were gathered around a holo-tank “Two, stay with the aircraft, I’m going to find out what in New Avalon’s name is going on.” She said releasing her harness and opening the cockpit, standing up she triggered the automatic ladder which dropped a chain ladder from the side of the aircraft which allowed her to get to the ground.
Walking across the ground she headed to holo-tank “what is going on?” She asked expecting to know why everyone’s attention had been drawn away from work. Looking up at the holo image she realized it was a news broadcast from the Draconis March News Service, the headline at the bottom ready “Anjin Muerto falls to Clan Nova Cat” however the image was most startling. The Hologram played an image of a large battle-damaged Federated Suns WarShip, an Indefatigable-class Battleship Leah believed, taking a series of heavy hits to the rear of the ship the last was most definitely a naval gauss rifle shot. The twisting slug slammed into the upper port side of the WarShip tearing down through the ship’s hull one of the massive engines was blown completely off the vessel’s hull by the hit. As the WarShip continued to take hits it began to roll over onto its port side and then dive into the atmosphere Leah Davion stood like the others transfixed on the image for several moments before the video cut away. She knew that even though the WarShip was 1.8 million tons in weight that there was no way that the ship was surviving the re-entry nor were any of the eight hundred crew that were on board.
Leah had seen simulations before showing what happened when a WarShip entered the atmosphere, the ship would burn, its ammunition would cook off and more than likely explode ripping the vessel apart from within destroying the ship long before it made it to the ground. An area of the ground would be showered by wreckage from above probably killing dozens more if it happened over a populated area. While it was horrible to see Leah wondered if her assignment here would last very long if the Nova Cats were continuing to be so active.
Trials of Possession
Lesnovo, District of Lesnovo
Free Worlds League
29th July 3117
While a District Capital of the Free Worlds League Lesnovo also had a growing population that considered themselves to be Clansmen. It had started with the arrival of refugees from the destroyed Smoke Jaguar Clan, the former Nova Cats the Liger Warriors and then over the years more clansmen exiled from their own Clans or survivors from the Homeworlds had made their way to the back reaches of the Free Worlds League and Periphery. When Khan Petra Furey had become Khan of the reborn Clan Smoke Jaguar on the Lesnovo world of Twin Suns and then later leader of the entire district it had added further legitimacy to the Clansmen there. While news of the reborn Smoke Jaguars had passed around the Inner Sphere quickly few had taken notice of a group of “wannabees” the real Smoke Jaguars of old were long dead and the new Clan was not a threat.
To the Clans the reborn Smoke Jaguars were more of a curiosity than anything serious and they weren’t powerful enough to rejoin the other Clans, they were too far from the other Clans to be part of their society and their subservience to the Free Worlds League system of Government made it impossible for them to be classed as Clan.
Not all of the Clans thought of the Smoke Jaguars as insignificant however the Sea Foxes actively traded with them from their two trade systems on the border of the District of Lesnovo while the Loremaster of the Clans Sandra Ward wished to know more about them to see if they fought like Clansmen or the Inner Sphere forces they were allied with. Dispatching the Tenth Ebon Guard Cluster to the region she had ordered them to engage the Clansmen on their own territory and see exactly how the “Clan” fought.
The Tenth’s Batchall was heard by all of the world of Lesnovo as the unit approached the planet but it was answered by one voice Khan Petra Furey herself. The Ebon Guard Cluster’s commander Star Colonel Dwyane Shaw explained exactly why his unit were approaching Lesnovo to engage the Smoke Jaguars in a series of honour Trials and Trials of Possession to answer questions the Loremaster of the Clans had placed on their existence. Khan Petra Furey accepts the challenge and informs the Tenth that the First Jaguar’s Fang Cluster and the Clusters of the Liger Warriors Galaxy would meet the Ebon Guard Cluster in any trial they called for she also grants the Ebon Cluster Safcon allowing them to land on the planet unmolested. On the planet’s surface and in its atmosphere over the course of the next month the Ebon Cluster engage the Smoke Jaguars in various Trials of Possession winning the majority of them but also losing several trials. The Smoke Jaguars win a lot of honour by fighting completely within the rules of Zellbrigen and are able to capture several Clan OmniMechs during the Trials including a Tomahawk OmniMech.
Before the Ebon Guard Cluster leave Lesnovo members of the unit that had survived the Trials of Possession are invited by Khan Petra Furey to a reborn Hunting Ritual which new Smoke Jaguars, born or adopted, must undertake before joining the Clan. The Hunting Ritual involves hunting down several large predators that roam the land on Lesnovo, most of them are native to the world but the Jaguars have imported several from the system known as Twin Sons, where the Clan was reborn. Several of the Ebon Guard warriors are successful in the Hunting Ritual however several more fall in to the beasts. The Ebon Guard Cluster leaves again protected by Safcon impressed with what it had experienced but confused that the Smoke Jaguars remain working with the Inner Sphere forces around them.
Author note: Some housekeeping which I'm putting here and not at the start for a reason. Firstly my thanks to marauder648 for "Delranes Fighting Ships" as you probably guessed quite a bit of the above piece in the deep periphery was borrowed from there given that the Endeavour, Fearless and the RWS Stefan's Audacity are all from that fantastic piece of work. PS, I also know exactly what I'm doing with them don't worry this is going to be fun. Second inspiration (which you might have got vibes from is the Re-imaged BattleStar Galactica it's been done to death in BattleTech but I really couldn't help myself) (remember the years I mentioned at the start Delranes came out almost 5 years ago, the Grozny was posted 5 years ago - I plan ahead)
Second note the other WarShip the Grozny was designed by Liam's Ghost and can be found in the below link
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/aerospace/groznyy-class-heavy-frigate-like-a-cannon-made-of-glass/msg1327386/#msg1327386 (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/aerospace/groznyy-class-heavy-frigate-like-a-cannon-made-of-glass/msg1327386/#msg1327386)
Third note about the last bit (I know where that's going too and I'm going to be throwing some curve balls so be prepared to catch)
All that and I had a Davion Princess involved in this update and she wasn't even the star ;D
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Brilliant stuff as always! :) Superb writing and world building and the Bears are not going to be happy with being conned out of those worlds.
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Brilliant stuff as always! :) Superb writing and world building and the Bears are not going to be happy with being conned out of those worlds.
Thanks, continuing to expand the timeline and have a bit of fun with it as it expands we'll see where we go
Briefing Room, Spirit of Northumberland
Asteroid belt, Sancerre
Deep Periphery
1st August 3117
The jump to Sancerre had bought the Spirit of Northumberland and the survivor fleet from the Amaris Empire almost two weeks and still there was no sign of Casper drones. The fleet had jumped to a pirate point in the Sancerre system near a dense asteroid belt because all of the ships in the fleet had jump drives and transit drives the Calypso, Fearless-class Assault Ship, had been able to lead the entire fleet into the asteroid belt to the hidden fleet anchorage within. Initially Captain Barnes, onboard the Northumberland, had questioned how they would remain hidden from the drones that patrolled the system but Admiral Schiavon had explained that the Casper drones followed a set patrol route around the system and instead of burning their engines at all times they spent most of their time “coasting” around the system at 2G until their advanced sensors detected a target. Because of damage the Calypso and the other ships had caused in previous fights there were gaps in the patrol schedule giving them time. This had allowed the fleet to dock the Fortuna at an asteroid base and begin some much-needed repairs Schiavon had explained that while the base locations were known to the Caspers they didn’t class them as a threat unless they were occupied by humans and so supply and repair bases littered the four systems of the pocket nation leaving humanity with a much-needed lifeline.
With work being done on her ships Admiral Alessandra Schiavon had visited the Spirit of Northumberland and she had exchanged history with Captain Barnes. She’d not been surprised to hear that the Amaris Empire had fallen not long after her ancestors had left the Empire’s claimed space Aleksandr Kerensky’s rage had been unstoppable. She had however been surprised to hear that the Star League army had left so soon after their victory not to return to the Inner Sphere after the multiple Succession Wars and to return not as the Star League Army but as the Clans who had become conquerors instead of the protectors its army had originally been. Surprise had turned to anger when she’d heard that a new SLDF had been formed and that Star League like the first and like the Amaris Empire Remnant had turned to Casper Drones to supplement their defences. “So, the same mistakes have been made again?” she suggested looking at Barnes across the round table in the meeting room.
“We’ll see” Barnes said “so far the Star League has not tried to exert control over its member states instead letting them continue as they always have but should its rein continue, I’m sure changes will come to all member states.”
“And you said that your nation is a district of the Free Worlds League?” She asked she was in her early sixties, ten years Barnes senior at least, her black uniform was lined with red which went around the edges of the jacket and down the legs from hip to foot. On the left breast there was the shark symbol of House Amaris overlayed over the Cameron star.
“Yes, the District of Lesnovo has fully autonomy under the Free Worlds League government we share mutual defence with other nations but are entirely independent to make our own choices under the FWL banner. We are part of the parliament and are part of the election process for a new Captain-General.”
“Where House Marik will remain in command whatever happens?”
“No, one non-Marik Captain-General has already served in the League’s short history since reforming, members of House Marik are more likely but it’s not set in stone.” Barnes said defensively.
“So perhaps we could find a place there?” Schiavon asked carefully
“Most likely, the rest of the League will want some sort of access to you but there are plenty of open places for a population as small as yours to fit in. Khan Furey would no doubt welcome your naval support alone.” Barnes admitted the three WarShips would be a significant increase in firepower not to mention the wealth the twenty-two Sub-Compact Core equipped ships would bring if they were traded away, this system could be just the find that his mission was sent out to look for.
“Khan Furey?” Schiavon asked unfamiliar with the position held by the leader of the District of Lesnovo.
“Khan Furey is a refugee herself; her people were originally members of Clan Smoke Jaguar which was destroyed by the Inner Sphere. Her people have settled in the Free Worlds League as members of its people and while they hold onto their identity they have agreed to live by our rules and fit in with our culture. So far, they have proven their worth to the Free Worlds League which has shielded them from external enemies.”
“Do you think they’d welcome members of House Amaris?” Schiavon asked sceptically
“Technically you aren’t members of that House” Barnes suggested “you carried their name here but your people built your own place out here in the Periphery all by yourselves. You didn’t follow Amaris path instead you followed something closer to that of the Star League.” He noted having listened to their history. “The Jaguars believe they have inherited the true Star League’s legacy through their heritage with the Clans and the First Star League below, I think perhaps they’d look at you in a similar way.” He suggested truthfully, he had no idea how the Jaguars would react but he had to say something. Before she could say anything further the comm panel on the table blinked active. “This is Barnes go ahead.”
“Sir, message from the Calypso, they have intercepted a distress signal from the Lakota system. It suggests that four hundred survivors are in that system in a series of bunkers looking for extraction. They have a DropShip but no way to extract their personnel.” The comm. officer reported.
“It can’t be.” Schiavon whispered looking at Barnes “it’s been more than a year since we’ve encountered anyone left on the planets.” She said “I can’t risk the Fearless for four hundred people.” She then said “Fearless is the only ship I could send with a way to get them out, the Frigates don’t have the standing power of their own and the civilian ships would need to dock and manually transfer everyone off a DropShip.”
“Northumberland could do it, with a little help.” Barnes suggested “we need a distraction, jump one of your ships into the range of the Caspers and draw them away. I’ll take Northumberland in, and extract the DropShip, we have two Collars on this ship I can dock them directly to us and jump back out.”
“Our DropShips are surface to orbit capable only, you’ll have to meet them in orbit.” Schiavon pointed out. Because only the WarShips could transport DropShips most of their ships were designed to go up and down between the planet’s surface and orbital docks where the civilian ships could load personnel. In many ways it was less efficient than the JumpShip/DropShip model employed by the Inner Sphere but it did make the ships quite flexible in being able to jump at any time.
“We can do it; we have a smaller jump signature than your bigger ships if you draw away the Caspers far enough we’ll be fine. We have to try” Barnes suggested
---
“We have to try” Barnes repeated the words he’d spoken now four days before in the meeting room with Admiral Schiavon. As promised the Medea had jumped in and gotten the attention of three Caspers which were now chasing down the Frigate buying the Spirit of Northumberland time to enter the system to evacuate the civilians. Now in orbit over the planet of Lakota the Spirit of Northumberland was ready to evacuate the civilians but there was an issue their DropShip had been disabled by ground-based Drones and couldn’t fly instead the MacMahon would have to be used to evacuate the civilians and he’d have to use the Cemetery Wind to protect them.
Falling away from the Northumberland the MacMahon was already heading to the surface the old Fortress-class DropShip would be the civilians only hope of evacuation. “Good luck” Barnes whispered “sensors keep an eye on the Medea and the Caspers we cannot be caught flat footed. Weapons we may need to support the ground forces so ready the lasers.”
---
The MacMahon landed close to the survivor’s bunker and the Cemetery Wind’s eight remaining BattleMechs and six vehicles deployed in an inverted crescent moon deployment pattern waiting for the incoming drones as civilians began streaming from the bunker’s exits. According to the survivors the Drones were built into UrbanMech BattleMechs and they attacked regularly once they had reloaded their weapons, almost a Battalion of UrbanMechs were expected. Sitting on the bridge of the MacMahon Expedition Leader Christoffer Trossen was reminded of the old joke scenario of how long an Atlas could last against endless waves of light BattleMechs. Unfortunately, today he didn’t have an Atlas to counter the incoming UrbanMechs only longer ranged weapons to try and whittle them down. The Long Tom artillery cannon on the MacMahon’s nose roared to life beginning to bombard the incoming UrbanMechs, this was followed by autocannons, missiles, particle cannons and lasers firing in support before the Cemetery Wind employed their own weapons.
The weapons of the Fortress brought down multiple drone Mechs as they approached but there were many of them and the first two members of the Cemetery Wind fell quickly under heavy fire from the incoming Mechs. “We’re two hundred in” one of the bridge officers said “they aren’t going fast enough” another said “autocannon hit on the right side, we can only take too many of those, Commander” another said
“We need to hold” Trossen said seeing that two of the support vehicles were down as well as a third BattleMech fell.
“We’re three hundred in, the survivors said there’s just over one hundred waiting, we’re going to be tight.” A crew member reported.
“Have the deck crews pack them in wherever there’s space!” Trossen said watching another Mech fall “we’re going to have nothing left at this rate.” He said “Lieutenant Knappe, prepare to fall back the last group is coming across.”
“We will be staying behind Trossen; this is unfortunately a one-way trip for us.”
“Negative, that was not the plan, the Northumberland will begin a bombardment in concert with the MacMahon to cover your retreat MechWarrior.”
“Not enough Trossen, we all knew this when we came out today, get the people safe and our mission is done.” Knappe responded as Trossen saw his BattleMech take an autocannon hit high up tearing off one of the Mech’s arms.
“We’re full!”
“Knappe!” Trossen shouted but he could see the MechWarrior’s Mech take another two hits and go down, it didn’t look like it was getting back up. “Cargo Bay, button us up. Helm, get us airborne when the cargo bay is locked up. Northumberland, we need assistance, the Wind are not returning.” Trossen said into the comms. As the MacMahon prepared to lift off Naval Lasers stabbed into the ground near the DropShip clearing away several of the Drone UrbanMechs. The weapons of the Spirit of Northumberland were most often used to assist with scientific research missions but they were still capital grade weapons which were devastating against BattleMechs of any size.
As the Fortress began to rise off the ground the lasers continued to stab into the ground taking out droves of incoming UrbanMechs. The last members of the MacMahon’s ground defence force were either killed by the remaining UrbanMechs or in the middle of the bombardment, the unit’s sacrifice had saved over four hundred lives but it was still a bitter pill to swallow. Once back out of the atmosphere the MacMahon re-joined the Spirit of Northumberland and the ship moved clear of the planet below jumping clear before any of the Caspers could return. Elsewhere in the system the Medea also jumped clear of the system having taken a couple of non-critical hits and severely damaged one of the chasing Caspers. Once they had re-joined the survivor fleet, they loaded all the supplies they could and began the long journey away from the former Amaris Empire worlds and back towards the Inner Sphere leaving the remaining Caspers to patrol the four dead systems.
House Arano, Throne Room
Cordia City, Coromodir
New Quarter, Fronc Reaches
9th August 3117
While the rest of the Fronc Reaches was continuing to slip into turmoil and Civil War with little to no leadership coming out of Fronc the world of Coromodir slowly begins to regain some of its long-lost prominence. Countess of Coromodir Kamea Arano II now sat on the throne of Coromodir she stood as her Chief Advisor Alexander Madeira and Colonel-Marshal Ann Ogbomo approached. Kamea was a tall woman with jet black hair, she had a red and gold Māori tribal tattoo which covered her chin while her red and gold sleeveless dress showed another tattoo down her left arm while behind her a flag was held high above the throne on it was a Gold Great Cormorant on a red field.
“Welcome Colonel-Marshal” she greeted the commander of the Colonial Marshals on Coromodir.
“Thank you, Countess” Ann Ogbomo said bowing deeply her head was shaved bald, the dark skin glistening in the light of the room, she was also tall, almost of the Clan Elemental breed but unlike the elementals she was also lean and athletic.
“Colonel-Marshal, I am sending your unit off of Coromodir to assist the nearby worlds of the Fronc Reaches.”
“You do not want us here?” Ogbomo asked surprised her thick Haitian accent showing her emotions.
“Of course, I do” she said giving the Colonel-Marshal a disarming smile, “but I believe there are other worlds in greater need than Coromodir at present.” She said glancing at Alexander Madeira nodding.
“Colonel-Marshal” he began he was a little older than Kamea with dark hair glasses and a dark well-trimmed goatee and a business suit. “Coromodir is currently peaceful, we have the home guard present here and Rampart Battalion which will be more than capable of looking after House Arano’s interests in this system. We believe that your Marshals can, and should, assist the whole of the Reaches Coromodir will help its neighbours.” He said as Countess Kamea Arano II approached and leaned close to kiss her cheek.
“A hui hou” she said in the traditional Māori language “until we meet again” she repeated in English “your troops go with our blessing Colonel-Marshal. Protect the Fronc Reaches.” She said dismissing the woman. Ogbomo replied by giving her a short bow then smartly about faced and left. “We’re taking a risk deploying that regiment away from here” she said glancing at Alexander Madeira.
“With great risk comes great rewards.”
“Without foresight or vision, the people will be lost” she said quoting her family motto.
“And through your vision, the people will Behold our Splendour” he said quoting his own family motto with a wide smile, Lady Arano had a plan now they had to see how it worked out.
Trials of Possession
Rasalhague Dominion
18th August 3117
Continuing their campaign of taking advantage of the Rasalhague Dominion’s preoccupation with the Draconis Combine and with the newly captured District of Dieron worlds Clan Coyote strike at the Rasalhague Dominion’s back challenging them to three Trials of Possession for the systems of Kandis, Stanzach and Memmingen. With front line forces previously being sent to the front lines only garrison troops remain with no more than a star of Mechs in each system and the rest made up of armour, battle armour and in Stanzach’s case a cluster of conventional infantry troops.
On the world of Stanzach the cluster of infantry troopers recruited from the population of the world faced off against a mixed star of ProtoMechs and Battle Armour in a wooded area three kilometres from the capital. What follows is a classic cat and mouse game between the more numerous infantry soldiers against the fewer but heavier Coyote armoured force only the few are hunting the many. After nearly a month of heavy fighting with both sides taking significant losses the Coyotes are victorious claiming control over the system thirty-two surviving infantry men are recruited into the Ninth Recon Cluster with the majority given Inner Sphere made Battle Armour suits and the remaining troops trained as crewmen of two Huitzilopochtli AAA Assault Tanks attached directly to the star.
Planetary Assault
Pollux/Devil’s Rock, Talitha EDZ
Star League Protectorate
22nd August 3117
Continuing their drive towards Terra Clan Wolf launches twin attacks on the Pollux and Devil’s Rock systems with both attacks supported by a pair of newly constructed Thebes-class Heavy Cruisers and several Morrigan Pocket WarShips both are brand new classes constructed to serve the Wolf Clan. With no naval defences of their own the ground forces are forced to attempt to resist the incoming Clansmen and hope they do not resort to planetary bombardment.
On the ground the two planetary guard units, the Third Sirius Regimental Brigade and two Special Operations Commands resist the incoming Wolves holding them off as civilian DropShips escape the planet carrying people away from the two worlds. The Wolf WarShips and their attending DropShips stop and board each DropShip in turn checking them for retreating warriors but find none instead they allow them to retreat.
WarShips from the Alua Australis and Oliver systems jump in and attempt to assist the ground forces bringing in additional mercenary forces to assist in the defence but the combined firepower against them is too much for the SLDF to break through en masse. While they are able to destroy the Wolf vessel Adolfus and several Morrigan Pocket WarShips in the Pollux system the SLS Africa and SLS Siberia, two Pinto-class Corvettes originally salvaged from the Fenwick system, are both destroyed in the Devil’s Rock system when they and their assault ships are unable to break through the Wolf blockade. Instead, the remaining SLDF forces screen retreating civilians and the two systems are essentially surrendered to the Wolves with the forces defending them left to fend for themselves.
As civilians retreat from the two invaded systems and several others around them unrest and anger quickly spreads inside the Star League Protectorate as neither system had dedicated WarShip defences while worlds closer to the core of the nation, which are not under threat, have heavy WarShip defences. While the political fallout from the retreat hurts the Star League Defence Force and to a lesser degree the Protectorate the offloading of Devil’s Rock and its criminal gangs is actually a relief for the Protectorate Intelligence as the trouble they caused needed to be constantly monitored. Star League Intelligence Command uses its links to these organisations to secret away several of its agents and equipment on Devil’s Rock ready to be used in a covert campaign against the Clan oppressors. The debut of the Thebes and Morrigan classes both please Clan Wolf leadership and the victories bring the Clan closer to Terra after recent Rasalhague Dominion gains.
Author note: Thebes Heavy Cruiser (Derlanes) and Morrigan (Nelson) are borrowed from the two excellent marauder648 fan products. While House Arano... I couldn't not use them some way
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Cemetery Wind's last stand... :'( they died a good death as long as those were really civilians
wow almost pg 50
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Cemetery Wind's last stand... :'( they died a good death as long as those were really civilians
wow almost pg 50
Well they are people... there will be a couple of waves when they arrive where they are going but they are really a drop in the ocean compared to most Inner Sphere planets population, just as the Cemetery Wind were to the civilian population
Trial of Possession
New Malibu, Qualip
Hell’s Horses OZ, Clan Occupation Zone
9th September 3117
The skies over New Malibu on the long thought dead world of Qualip were ablaze as DropShips and BattleMechs lit the sky with their fusion powered engines all of the commotion signaled Clan Wolf’s arrival to the battered world. Qualip had been a world which had benefited from the technology at the disposal of the original Star League and had become one of the victims of the early Succession Wars, a victim of the fighting between the Lyran Commonwealth and Draconis Combine. All but forgotten by the Inner Sphere the world had been found by Clan Wolf during the initial invasion of the Inner Sphere. The Wolves had found a bombed-out wreck of a planet with the only real habitable areas around the equatorial coasts and on the islands that dotted the world’s massive oceans. The land was stalked by creatures that had both been introduced to it during the Star League era and that had evolved there.
ilKhan Ulric Kerensky had seen Qualip’s potential he’d heard of the world through historical texts and after finding it had set about the Wolves using their technology to restore the planet to its former glory, and in turn showing the Inner Sphere that the Clans really were the reborn inheritors of the Star League. Unfortunately, Ulric like many others had fallen to the Clan system of honour and betrayal and with his death the Wolf’s initial interest in the world had also waned. With the Wolves moving out of their Occupation Zone and across Lyran Space into the Free Worlds League to establish their Empire the likely hood of any revival of Qualip had been remote, while the system resided inside Hell’s Horses territory, they knew nothing of the world.
Now the Wolves had returned to Qualip with the slamming down of BattleMech feet with the Clan deciding to once more take on the challenge of reviving the world’s fortunes and showing the entire Inner Sphere just what the Clans were capable of. “I Star Colonel Flavia Sender of the Clan Wolf Watch claim Kerensky’s Vision for Clan Wolf, who challenges me” the Wolf commander called out from her Tomahawk OmniMech as it landed on the planet. Her radio was met with silence. “Kerensky’s Vision will become a symbol of all the Clans can accomplish and this city will rise again.” She stated as other Wolf Mechs and DropShips began to come into land around the battered area.
In the coming months the Wolves would establish a colony in what would become known as the New Malibu area which hosted a deep-water bay giving access to the wider world beyond and had been sheltered from much of the nuclear fallout and radiation. The Wolves offer incentive's for workers and scientists to travel to Kerensky’s Vision by offering greater freedoms, more credits for their work and additional chances of advancement in their field. The downsides were that much of the work would include cleaning out irradiated landscapes and radioactive mining equipment that dotted the landscape.
Elsewhere Galaxy Commander Alaric Ward seizes the Sea Fox trade world of Ideyid in a Trial of Possession in retaliation for Clan Sea Fox’s continued trades with the Free Worlds League which were hindering Clan Wolf’s progress against the Succession State. With the Sea Fox Clan holding multiple systems the fight is a simple honour trial which Ward successfully wins without the need for serious losses on either side.
Mechbay, Warrior House Sortek Monestary
Buick Mountain Range, Marduk
Draconis March, Federated Suns
13th September 3117
Deep within the Buick Mountain Range on Marduk Warrior House Sortek had made its home over the last three years carving out a facility within the mountain which could house upwards of three thousand people in an emergency and was completely nuclear and orbital bombardment proof. The Warrior House could hold off an enemy for months in a siege using the Monestary’s defences to augment their firepower. An entire underground airfield allowed aerspace fighters to launch from the side of the mountain without fear of being bombed while there were several DropShip landing pads hidden on the surface of the mountain with each able to retract into the mountain. The leadership of the Warrior House had already sent a request to New Avalon requesting that the Warrior House be allowed to contract companies to build naval defence weaponry into the mountain given the location of Marduk on the Draconis Combine border.
Currently there was a little over four hundred personnel inside the base and the current mission was intended on changing that. Walking down the stainless steel steps to the reinforced base of the huge Mechbay Warrior House Leader Imarra Sortek approached the four MechWarriors standing waiting for her Leftenants Chang Wong, Jessica Sortek, Cassidy Youngston and Mark Delanty. Each of them was dressed in the ceremonial hoodless robes of Warrior House Sortek with the insignia of the Federated Suns replacing the one of the Confederated Suns on the arms and on the left breast of their robes. Under their robes Imarra Sortek knew each had a leather sash that crossed their bodies and on it there was a vibroblade and a gauss pistol intended on giving the MechWarriors a fighting chance on any battlefield. Every member of the Warrior House was armed from the MechWarriors to the technicians and cooks everyone would step up to defend their home to the last if it came down to it.
“Good morning to you all” she said greeting them “when we all arrived here you were children, you were sent to our Warrior House to grow up, learn how to be warriors, adults and people of disciple. Now we are far from our homes and far from the nation we were all born into and sworn to protect” she said reminiscing a little remembering the Confederated Suns, her home all of their home, “however, we cannot remain in the past” she said continuing “your mission is to bring the word, and honour, of our Warrior House. Like you were sent to us our hope is your actions will bring recruits to our banner and bring honour to Warrior House Sortek.” She said walking from one end of the line to the other, all four of them were between eighteen and twenty years old far from being fully fledged MechWarriors and members of the Warrior House. “I do not expect you to fight the big battles that the Federated Suns is presently fighting, your lance will not be enough for that, instead you will travel the length and brenth of the Federated Suns and help its people with the smaller jobs that you find across this nation.” She stopped walking and turned to look back at the line of MechWarriors “Good Hunting, your personal belongings have been moved to the DropShip, get to your Mechs.” She commanded them each saluted her then turned and ran towards their Mechs leaving their robe with their technician each of them ascended to their Mech. Each of the Mechs had been picked specifically for this missing each was either a heavier medium BattleMech or a faster heavy BattleMech. Chang Wong’s Men Shen OmniMech was the first prepared it stepped clear of the gantry, built to be fast and capable of delivering a reasonable amount of firepower, Cassidy Youngston’s Ostol OTL-8E was next the sixty ton Mech was capable of delivering a withering amount of pulse laser fire which would make most Mechs the same size and smaller worry, Mark Delanty piloted the third BattleMech clear of the maintenance cradle was the pride of House Davion which had been given to the unit, a recently produced Centurion OmniMech. Finally, Jessica Sortek stepped forwards in her advanced fifty-ton Agrotera BattleMech the Mech’s Partial Wings giving it an almost bird-like Mech moved with the others heading for their Aurora class DropShip which would take them across the Federated Suns in their mission.
Trials of Possession
Nova Cat’s Den, Periphery
21st September 3117
Following recent successes by Clan Nova Cat against the Federated Suns the Succession State chose to strike back against the Nova Cats by challenging them to two Trials of Possession. On the worlds of Ebro and Sherwood they challenge the Nova Cats to Trials of Possession for control over both systems. Ebro fell in a quick trial with elements of the First Davion Guards RCT being successful against elements of the Four Hundred and Fifty-first Pouncer Cluster.
On the world of Sherwood Prince Luther Davion twisted the torso of his Dire Wolf OmniMech and blasted a Nova Cat SM1 Tank Destroyer with a full volley from the arm mounted lasers. Heat rose within the cockpit of the Mech but it bled off quickly, the SM1 was not so lucky the lasers bored through the vehicle’s armour killing the crew. He then twisted his Mech’s torso in the opposite direction and fired off a volley of long-range missiles striking another enemy Mech. The Federated Suns company were on top against the Four Hundred and Fifty-first Pouncer Cluster’s combined arms binary. “Star Colonel Maggie Nostra, this is Prince Luther Davion commander of the House Davion forces fielded against your unit, my people have…” he started twisting the Mech the opposite way and shooting down an enemy Pack Hunter BattleMech “…my people have destroyed half of your command” he said only to be interrupted again by an explosive blast on the Dire Wolf’s left side caused by an autocannon attack. “Accept my offer of hegira now, or lose your entire command” he said taking the Dire Wolf several steps forward he felt more autocannon shells strike the Dire Wolf’s thick hull he twisted the torso but his target continued its turn running round him.
Luther could break Zellbrigen and call-in support against the more mobile Nova Cat BattleMech but he didn’t want to, if he did it may give the Nova Cats an excuse to extend the battle, while they were far from any population zone there was always a risk. The one thing that Luther hated about combat was the chance of innocents being injured due to the fighting, he saw so many more options to fighting, he had tried to explain this to his father but in Burton Davion’s words “A Davion serves his people from the front-lines, he leads by example.” And the great Burton Davion should know he literally given an arm and a leg for their nation.
The rattle of more autocannon blasts to his OmniMech’s left leg brought him back to reality “Screw you then!” He snapped angrily slamming the leg down he twisted his Mech suddenly in the opposite direction and let rip with everything his Mech had left. The Dire Wolf’s cockpit became a furnace as the lasers, missiles and autocannons mounted on the OmniMech the weapons were focused on where Luther hoped his enemy would be as it circled his assault Mech. Multiple weapons missed their target but the majority tore into the speeding Huntsman tearing into the fifty-ton BattleMech battering through its armour and striking its internal structure.
Inside the Dire Wolf cockpit Luther struggled through the heat blinking his eyes rapidly as sweat poured down his face. He saw the Huntsman staggering about but amazingly still standing. He readied his weapons again ready to fire against the enemy OmniMech but noticed that it had shut down its targeting systems.
“Prince Davion this is Star Colonel Maggie Nostra, my OmniMech is crippled, my unit is defeated. I accept your offer of Hegira, well battled and bargained; I hope you treat this world as well as Clan Nova Cat has.” The enemy commander said Luther’s hands were on the triggers he could end his enemy’s life with a single pull of the trigger but he chose not to. He wondered about the Nova Cat commander’s words. Under the stewardship of Clan Nova Cat, the Sherwood system had experienced an economic boom often serving as a stepping point for goods traded from Clan Sea Fox to the Nova Cats. As a result of this position jump recharge stations had been built at both the Nadir and Zenith points and multiple mining operations had been built by the Nova Cats. Now Luther had brought these back into the Federated Suns but what extra attention would Sherwood get as another Federated Suns periphery world.
Scouting mission
Valencia, Nueva Castile
Deep Periphery
28th September 3117
Over the decades many Clans had come to the Nueva Castile, some as would be conquerors like the Ice Hellions, others like the remnants of the Alliance of Serpent Clans had come to the worlds retreating from the Inner Sphere having been forced back by the established Inner Sphere Clans, while others like the Goliath Scorpions had come retreating from the Clan’s greatest mistake the Society. None of the Clans that had come here had been able to establish a foothold, these worlds had become graveyards for the Clans and held many nightmares.
The world of Valencia was comfortable world with a plentiful water, comfortable tempretures, a slightly higher than standard gravity with a technologically basic but booming population. The world had been fought over several times by various Castilian factions, between the Castilians and the then invading Umayyid and then Clan forces but the world remained unspoiled and now Clan Goliath Scorpion saved from the abyss by Clan Blood Spirit had returned to the world, not as a conquering force but instead possibly trying to pass on what the Blood Spirits had done for them.
Both the Goliath Scorpions and Blood Spirits continued to battle the Society in the Homeworlds with worlds regularly exchanging hands or being completely lost in the fighting. Of the original thirty-six inhabited systems in the homeworlds and five inhabited Pentagon Worlds fourteen of the homeworlds and two of the Pentagon Worlds had been lost while only six of the remaining Homeworlds were held by the two Clans. Two worlds beyond the Homeworlds Colleen and Arizona were held by the Clans while the independent world of Fasa remained shared between the Clans and the Society.
The two Clans agreed that their greatest challenge at present was the lack of warriors, while both clans could breed new warriors and recruit freeborns from their civilians’ castes but they all lacked experience, something that was in dire need against the Society. Instead, they turned back to the remains of the Nueva Castile and began looking for warriors of the former Clans both had agreed that none of the fallen Clans would be resurrected instead any warriors found would be added to their own Toumans in Circles of Equals.
Back on Valencia the Goliath Scorpions waited for their scouts to return with news on what was available in the area Star Colonel Patrice Madsen sat in his Timber Wolf OmniMech waiting for the scouts to return. The sun was slowly beginning to lower in the sky as the first batch of five Boreas Cavalry Hovercraft began streaming from the treeline behind them several armoured vehicles drove behind them at a slower pace. Over the course of the next several hours sixteen of the twenty-five Boreas returned for several hours Patrice waited for the last group to return, it had been a minor miracle that the majority of the troopers had returned as it was to lose one group wasn’t the end of the world but he waited giving them the chance. Finally, the last three of the Boreas returned and behind them two entire trinaries of cobbled together BattleMechs with various paint schemes and technology, and several mixed stars of vehicles, armour and infantry.
“I am Star Colonel Patrice Madsen, you are welcomed by Clan Goliath Scorpion, whom am I addressing.”
“This is Connor Rood of the Ice Hellions, what is left of them.” The other warrior replied Patrice was able to lock in on a Linebacker OmniMech as the pilot’s Mech.
“Connor Rood, Galaxy Commander Connor Rood Quiaff?”
“Aff, I am he, what is it you want Goliath Scorpion? We are both here surviving but if you want your end to come then let us have at it.”
“Neg, Galaxy Commander, Clan Goliath Scorpion is no longer struggling to survive here. We have returned to the Homeworlds and are actively engaging the Society.” Patrice Madsen explained “I have not come here to annihilate your remaining forces.” He explained over the course of the last few hours nearly two Clusters worth of forces from various surviving Clans had moved into the area but Rood’s forces were by far the largest force to arrive so far.
“Then why are you here?”
“We want to offer you all a chance to strike back at the Society and redeem your names following the fall of your Clans.” Madsen said making sure he was transmitting to everyone present. “The Goliath Scorpions have liberated six of the Homeworlds from the Society. We plan on liberating the entire Kerensky Cluster, each of you has proven your worth by your very survival following the fall of your Clans, our invitation is simple. Join us, become parts of Clan Goliath Scorpion and return our homes to our Clans, each of you will face a Trial of Position and on success you will return as Clan warriors once more.”
“You say ‘Clans,’ but all I see is Goliath Scorpions. Who else has survived, who else continues to resist?” He asked by the sound of his voice he was wondering if the Inner Sphere Clans had returned to the Homeworlds.
“Clan Blood Spirit is also active in the homeworlds.”
“The Blood Spirits survive?” Rood said in wonderment, believing the story of their survival would be a worthy one. Madsen remained silent allowing the news to sink in that two Clans remained active in the homeworlds and that they were inviting these sons and daughters of Kerensky to return to the fold.
Off to his left-hand side he saw a Mech, three vehicles, an assortment of Battle Armour and infantry deactivated their targeting systems and moved to join the Goliath Scorpions. From the right a trio of VTOLs carrying the colours of Clan Hell’s Horses did the same flying over the Goliath Scorpion lines their weapons powered down. Rood’s forces remained stationary waiting their weapons and systems active, the force he had could do serious damage to Madsen’s force even in their battered state.
“What do you say you Connor Rood?”
“I say my Trial of Position will be here and now Star Colonel Patrice Madsen. Face me here and now on the mud and among the trees of Valencia. Many of my people have died here on this world, I will not leave it without a fight.”
“We did not come here to threaten your lives Galaxy Commander, but I will honour your request, if you honour mine. Win or lose your people will join the Goliath Scorpions.”
“Aff, I agree, well bargained and done.” Connor Rood said “clear a space!” He barked into the comm. his voice made it clear that it was a command and everyone listened regardless of what Clan they were a part.
Madsen remained where he was his Timber Wolf facing off against the Linebacker in a one-on-one duel, the Linebacker was lighter and faster but not nearly as well armed as the heavier Mech. With the others out of the way both Mechs began to move and fire in unison long range missiles and lasers from the Timber Wolf countered by particle cannons and missiles from the Linebacker. Both of the Mechs took hits as they moved and turned Rood’s Mech was the first to take major damage when one of its particle cannons alone with the entire arm it was mounted on fell from the OmniMech following damage it was a testament to Rood that he kept his Mech standing and moving despite the hit. Next the remaining particle cannon on the sixty-five-ton design found a weak spot in the Timber Wolf’s armour and one of the over left shoulder long range missile racks exploded following a critical hit. Madsen continued to move his seventy-five-ton OmniMech the left side of the Mech on fire as his Mech moved.
Missiles, lasers and particle cannon fire continued to be exchanged between the two OmniMechs until one of Rood’s particle cannon shots hit the Timber Wolf’s left knee causing it to explode knocking the Mech to the ground at the same time missiles from Madsen’s Timber Wolf blew through the armour of the Linebacker and cored its gyro. Neither Mech moved for several minutes and one of Madsen’s MechWarriors called an end to the Trial Techs prized open the two Mechs to find both Mech had been incapacitated by the damage done to their Mechs in a strange twist of fate both had been knocked unconscious by the fall.
Following the battle both had been evacuated to the Goliath Scorpion DropShips in the morning Madsen woke up on a bed in the infirmary and glanced over at Connor Rood who was sat on the other bed with his arm in a sling and his leg in plaster. “You fought well young, Scorpion.”
“As did you” Madsen said sitting up, he suddenly felt very dizzy thinking he’d gotten up too quickly but it was something more.
“Easy Madsen, you suffered a concussion in our draw.” Rood said reaching out
“Our draw?” He asked only now aware of the result, he’d initially thought he’d lost but now took in Rood’s injuries he was tall and lean, his head shaved bald, even with his injuries he looked dangerous at sixty-eight years old he was also old for a Clan MechWarrior.
“Aff, we did not defeat each other but you fulfilled your oath my forces have surrendered to yours and will submit to Goliath Scorpion rule.”
“Thank you” Madsen said
“Neg, thank you Star Colonel Patrice Madsen now I can die as a Clan warrior.” The older man said Madsen didn’t think he had it in him to smile but Rood looked pleased about what he’d accomplished here, he’d kept members of his Clan alive against all odds, and now he was looking forward to fighting for a Clan again.
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Wow, FedSuns got burn with that acceptance speech of Hegira. The Star Colonel is not wrong.
However, were the people being forced into full caste system or were they living Ghost Bears hybrid model?
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Well they are people... there will be a couple of waves when they arrive where they are going but they are really a drop in the ocean compared to most Inner Sphere planets population, just as the Cemetery Wind were to the civilian population
Sorry my thought was if the Caspars had gone and was able to Humanoid Cylon (https://en.battlestarwiki.org/Humanoid_Cylon) or go into Manei Domini style humans.
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Wow, FedSuns got burn with that acceptance speech of Hegira. The Star Colonel is not wrong.
However, were the people being forced into full caste system or were they living Ghost Bears hybrid model?
Full caste, the Nova Cats are not as enlightened as the Bears. This story was intentional
Sorry my thought was if the Caspars had gone and was able to Humanoid Cylon (https://en.battlestarwiki.org/Humanoid_Cylon) or go into Manei Domini style humans.
I considered something like it when I first conceived of the idea but I shelved it, I wanted it to be a little homage but I didn't want to outright copy.
Next update, not a lot happens but still fun.
Private Medical Ward
Risha City, Renown
Victoria Commonality, Capellan Confederation
1st October 3117
After being placed in a medically induced coma due to her injuries and evacuated to the Capellan Confederation system of Renown Colonel Emma McEvens had been treated by the best medical technicians and doctors the world could offer at great expense. In a private ward in the city of Risha she woke to see Major Mitch Gitelman her executive officer in the Fronc Household Guard Regiment “Mitch? Where am I? What happened? Where are my parents?” She asked not recognizing where she was.
“Duchess” he said using her position instead of her rank “You are at a medical facility on Renown in the Capellan Confederation. There was a bombing on Fronc.” He said leaving the details to the side for now.
“We’re in the Capellan Confederation?” She asked confirming what she’d heard “and my parents…” she said this time not asking a question.
“Yes, we have been provided sanctuary while you recovered from your injuries.”
“And Fronc?”
“When we left it was in a state of unrest.”
“We left the world when it was in trouble, you do know how that makes us look?”
“Yes, Duchess” he said “but you would not have recovered there and then we would have been left…” he said not finishing the sentence as they danced around the news that her parents were no longer alive.
“I understand your reasoning Major but now I’m awake, prepare the regiment, we’re going home and we’re going to sort the mess our nation has been left in. Then we’re going to put to rest those we have lost properly.”
“Yes, Colonel, I’ll inform the troops.” He said saluting her then smartly about facing and leaving. Colonel Emma McEvens remained in the bed alone thinking over everything she had just learned and thinking about what she needed to do to sort out what had happened.
Planetary Invasion
Gladius, Isle of Skye
Lyran Commonwealth
13th October 3117
News had filtered through Gladius that the Jade Falcons and Hell’s Horses were on the move again, the Horses had attacked Edasich, Whittington and Nekkar while the Jade Falcons had targeted three systems of their own Trent, Canonie, and Gladius. The toughest nut of the three was Gladius defended by several regiments of ground forces and two WarShips which were assigned to protecting Skye’s shipyard.
In the three systems targeted by the Hell’s Horses although the Clan is able to dominate space with their WarShips the multiple dug in ground force regiments on each planet hold firm and grind down nine of the Horses Clusters forcing them into retreat when requests from the naval command to assist were rejected by the ground force Hell’s Horses commanders. All six regiments defending the three systems are heavily damaged by the fighting and would likely have been lost in their entirety by orbital bombardment as a result of the fighting Fury’s Fusiliers a small mercenary unit is wiped out.
The Jade Falcons have an easier run of it. On Trent the Ninth Lyran Regulars Regiment put up a fight initially but are rapidly broken into smaller units by the Jade Falcons and crushed piecemeal. Only a single combined arms regiment worth of troops are able to escape with hundreds of civilians. Canonie falls within three hours with none of the militia escaping.
Finally in the Gladius system the Jade Falcons come across their greatest challenge with Lyran WarShips and assault DropShips attacking them as soon as they enter the system. While the LCS Edinburgh, a Coventry-class Corvette is destroyed in the fighting the LCS Helmut Schroder, a Hyperion II-class Heavy Cruiser, and multiple squadrons of Talon-class Pocket WarShips rally to destroy the Jade Lion, a vessel of the same named class of Battle-cruiser, and the Hawk, a York-class Carrier, forcing the Jade Falcons into retreat. The two Clans find a rump of defended territory that is tougher than others to conqueror and may have to change their strategy.
Weapons Development
Twin Sons, District of Lesnovo
Free Worlds League
23rd October 3117
For decades before even the Smoke Jaguars had come to Twin Sons the industrious people of the world had been innovators making the most out of their lack of compact fusion engines and of large manufacturing capacity. Instead of building larger more powerful BattleMechs with built in weapons they built Ultra-light BattleMechs which complemented their firepower with hand-held weaponry which was often short-lived on a battlefield but it gave them something extra.
With the Twin Sons now under the full control of the reborn Smoke Jaguars and with the Clan working with the District of Lesnovo the hand-held weapons had become less useful with few of the heavier BattleMechs needing the additional firepower and the firepower they were able to mount on the weapons not enough to complement the larger Mechs.
After years of development and using Clan grade technology developed by the Smoke Jaguar scientists and traded from the Sea Fox Clan the people of Twin Sons had built the first examples of the “Advanced Gun System.” Designed to primarily complement heavier Mechs firepower this new weapon system was aimed at fitting the heaviest weapons that were able to be carried by a Mech. Unlike standard BattleMech weapons a weapon mounted on the Advanced Gun System weighed half as much as a regular weapon which allowed the heaviest weapons to be carried by a Mech as external ordinance. The drawback to these systems were that only a single weapon could be carried in any Advanced Gun System, due to the increased size of the weapons they suffered from a firing penalty and any Mech carrying one of these weapons needed two functioning hand actuators.
During her mercenary unit’s contract with the Free Worlds League Tassa Kay was able to secure one of these Advanced Gun Systems for her Ryoken II BattleMech. While her customized seventy-five-ton BattleMech already carried significant firepower she added a Class-10 Autocannon with a single ton of ammunition to an Advanced Gun giving her a short lived but potent additional punch. This was first demonstrated on Westover during a raid against Clan Sea Fox holdings there during this raid Kay’s Jokers salvaged a Clan built Gauss Rifle which Kay planned on adapting to the weapon system giving the Ryoken II an addition sniper-type weapon to complement its already potent twin Extended Range Particle Cannons.
Trials of Possession
Sea Fox Occupation Zone
26th October 3117
Attempting to change the course of their conflict with the Clans and gain favour with the other Inner Sphere leaders ahead of the Star League Conference on Terra the Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces, Mercenary forces and Star League Defence Force units go on the offensive against Clan Sea Fox targeting twelve systems of their occupation zone with Trials of Possession. The Lyran Archon orders all worlds targeted to be given the chance to fight a limited Clan styled Trial following Zellbrigen instead of initiating all-out war for the planets.
Of the twelve systems targeted by the Lyrans and their allies only five are won the others remain under Sea Fox rule. Of the worlds targeted only on Blackjack and Goat’s Path is Zellbrigen broken in both cases the worlds are targeted by mercenary commands exclusively. On Blackjack the First Obsidian Lancers break Zellbrigen when trying to counter the Sea Fox push, this results in the Clan pulling in additional troops and pushing the mercenaries off the world. On Goat’s Path it is the Sea Foxes themselves who break Zellbrigen during a melee between the defenders and Avanti’s Angels the Clan force overwhelms the mercenary command through superior firepower resulting in dozens of deaths in the mercenary command. Because the Clan force was the one that broke Zellbrigen the commander informs Colonel Marcus GioAvanti that he may salvage whatever he wishes from the planet as a result the Angels are able to rebuild two battalions of their unit before retreating.
Elsewhere the Sea Foxes abandon the systems of Newton Square, Barcelona and Bone Norman leaving the people on the worlds to their own devices. The only presence they continue to maintain is a space station at the Nadir Point of the Bone Norman system which is the Sea Foxes link to the periphery-based Ragnarok Union.
In the Isle of Skye Lyran and mercenary forces retreat from Edasich, Whittington and Nekkar, their units have been pounded on the planet for months by Clan Hell’s Horses and the Skye government could not continue to supply them instead they contract their front lines surrendering the three systems. Within weeks Clan Hell’s Horses realize what has happened and move in on all three systems the planetary militias remain on the battered worlds but are unable to resist the Horses for long and they become Clan holdings.
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New Tech for the AU found in this thread
The Advanced Gun System (AGS)
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/fan-designs-rules/new-tech-from-alternate-timeline-with-thanks/new/#new (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/fan-designs-rules/new-tech-from-alternate-timeline-with-thanks/new/#new)
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Its nice to see the story updated!
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Well then Dragon Cat... I'm glad I got the right vibe from the story of Cemetery Wind's last stand
:thumbsup:
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Excellent updates and AU as always :)
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When I planned out this update I didn't think about how much "Davion" it screams - so Davion Month 3117 is here ;D not even sure if it paints the family in a good light.
The "new" periphery nation is adapted from canon sources (I've moved its story to fit into this one)
Whitting Conference Centre, Unity Chambers
Unity City, North America
Terra, Star League Protectorate
1st November 3117
The rebuilding of Unity City had been a priority for the reborn Star League Protectorate as much as building the Star League Defence Force had been. In the forty-nine years since the rebirth of the Star League the population in the city had boomed to several million with hundreds of buildings restored to full use, hospitals, schools and shopping complexes had all opened while the crown jewels of the city the Whitting Conference Centre, renamed for this Star League after the building on Tharkad where the first elections had been held. The facility had been fully restored to its Star League-era looks and capabilities, now from the Chambers the Star League Council could monitor anything in the star system and beyond using the dedicated HPG network which fed it.
Walking through the many corridors of the facility there were multiple external observation decks for the inhabitants and visitors to look over Unity City, First Prince Burton Davion remarked just how much had been done to the city since his last visit. Much like Royal Davion Palace on New Avalon the Whitting Conference Centre sat beside two rivers one which flowed either side of the complex. If it was anything like his home Burton guessed there would be a command facility buried under the surface buildings as well as multiple bunkers and escape corridors should there ever be an attack. “Like anyone could invade Terra” Burton asked himself it was like imagining New Avalon being held by an others hand, impossible to comprehend. The Wolves, Bears and soon most likely the Jade Falcons were all closing on Terra but they were held back by the massed army of the Star League Defence Force, Navy and the Protectorate Guard regiments, none of them had the available forces alone to break through to Terra.
“An impressive sight” Exarch Victor Steiner-Davion said coming out onto the balcony joining his son.
“Father, it is good to see you well, I hoped to see you and mother before I left.”
“You’ve been here for six days son, I worried that you were avoiding us?”
“Not at all father, affairs of the state, I am sure you understand having all of this to look after?” He said raising his arms to take in Unity City beyond.
“It is a job that keeps me busy” Victor admitted “but my family and home are in the Federated Suns, your mothers as well, we took the position here to safeguard what had been built since the Star League’s founding. It doesn’t replace our home, even if sometimes I have to make policies that are not popular in the Federated Suns.”
“No, your reputation has been harmed somewhat by what you have had to do.”
“I unfortunately knew it would” Victor said “Burton, the Star League needs the Protectorate to remain strong. If it doesn’t then it all falls.”
“Today my cousin was elected to the position of First Lord. She will undoubtably use the Star League’s Defence Force to strengthen her fight back against the Clans and weaken the defences of this Protectorate. Much of the factories held by the Star League will sell their weapons to the Lyran Commonwealth at cut down prices also bolstering the Lyran Commonwealth’s position. Much like the Magistracy has increased its power over the last three years.” It was widely known that the Magistracy had used Star League resources to complete their second shipyard and to build several squadrons of a new type of Pocket WarShip based on the Vengeance-class DropShip.
“Which is the way of this League. But with the resources that we have brought together we are all improved. Has the Federated Suns not seen several new bases built during the recent League’s time which has brought jobs for hundreds of citizens.”
“And increased their foothold.” Burton said looking over at his father “the Federated Suns should be for the citizens of the Federated Suns. Even if a former son of the realm is ruling an ally.”
“And your cousin is in charge of another state. Our family have the ability to bring the entire Inner Sphere closer together and in turn make our realms stronger, all three of them. We just need to keep working within the rules of this League.” Victor stressed Burton looked at his father surprised, it almost sounded like he wanted to bring back together the Federated Commonwealth with the Star League as its bridge.
“That dream Archon-Prince is long dead” Burton said using his father’s former rank Victor had once been the first and only Archon-Prince of the nation which was made up of the Federated Suns and Lyran Commonwealth. “The Lyrans are far from us now and soon if the Clans have their way even you will be cut off from them, just as you are the Draconis Combine. Father, this League is failing around us, this Protectorate may be going from strength to strength but every year the Clans creep closer first it was the Wolves, now it’s the Bears who is next the Falcons or Horses?” He asked naming all the Clans moving towards the Protectorate he intentionally omitted the Sea Foxes because while they did have territory near the Protectorate, they were not expansionists and they traded technology with everyone around them.
“But together we can blunt their offensives. The Wolves are contained. The Bears have closed because we couldn’t become involved in the District of Dieron’s conflict with the Combine and the most recent Lyran offensive has been supported by the Star League Defence Force. Burton, the only reason you do not have more of our people in your territory is because of the unique agreement that the Federated Suns has with the Nova Cats and the distraction the Ravens have with the Draconis Combine.” Victor argued “this nation holds the Inner Sphere together AND accountable.”
“Accountable?” Burton asked innocently wondering where his father was going with this line of the argument.
“Orbital Bombardment and weapons of mass destruction.” Victor said bluntly “in the first two Succession Wars the Inner Sphere nations had WarShips a plenty and were happy to use them and destroy multiple worlds.” He said “the horrors of the first two Succession Wars still scarred many systems “the Clans have added a further element to the mix but the Star League’s presence has stopped the decent into complete chaos.” He truly believed that and saw his son was not convinced “tell me, truthfully that you haven’t looked at the power your fingertips wield and not been tempted.”
“You taught us well father ‘every action has an opposite and equal reaction, if you want to pick a fight expect a response.’” Burton said reciting his father’s words at the time his father had said that someone before him had said the same words but Burton had long ago forgotten the name of the other person. “I know what I can and cannot do. The Federated Suns has great strength, to escalate our battles beyond where they have currently reached would be to court complete destruction.”
“You know that because you have been taught to value what you have” Victor said grabbing his son by the shoulders “the other nation leaders perhaps do not. This Star League is keeping them in check.” He suggested he left out his other belief that the most recent experience of the wield District of Dieron had shown exactly how badly the Clans would react to an escalation of the violence.
“My decision stands father, I continue to support this Star League, but you know my reservations about it. Now perhaps we should put politics aside and see mother before I and Sterling have to leave for home.” He suggested Victor nodded and the two men headed back into the building. The cracks of the Star League Defence Force were showing but the threat of the Clans and the fear of what a new Succession War could bring was keeping them all in check.
House Arano Press Conference
Coromodir, Cordia City
Aurigan Collective, Periphery
9th November 3117
On the world of Coromodir VI in front of a massive Star League-era fortification which served as House Arano’s residence Lady Kamea Arano stood to address the gathered media. Lady Arano was in her late twenties with jet black hair. She wore a green dress with a short leather MechWarrior’s jacket over her shoulders. “I am Kamea of House Arano, Protector of Coromodir and the Sword of Restoration” on her head she wore the crown of the High Lady of the Aurigan Reaches a long-forgotten realm which was headed on Coromodir and a nation that had once been comparable to that of what the Fronc Reaches had become. “When I grew up here on Coromodir my father used to tell me ancient stories of the Star League, the first Star League, when the Aurigan Reaches stood with the other nations around it.” She said pausing a several camera flashes went off “it was a prosperous period when much of the facilities we hold dear today were built and out people reached for the stars around us.” She said raising her arms the massive facility behind her dominating the area. “I always dreamed of the prosperity of that era returning and our people moving forwards once more. The Fronc Reaches have treated Coromodir well but they have also taken a lot from our people and prospered on our riches.” She explained “now the Fronc Reaches is falling into Civil War and there are only a few chances of its recovery. I fully support the efforts of its recovery but I must protect the people I can. Today I am announcing the rebirth of the Aurigan nation as the Aurigan Collective the systems of Coromodir, Guldra, Tyrion, Itrom, Mangzhangdian, Smithon, Katinka, Artu, Gangtok, Sananda and Heliat are now under my protection as High Leader of the Aurigan Collective, we are separate from the Fronc Reaches and only want peace with our neighbours. I fully support the Fronc Reaches recovering from its current troubles but I must take this action to protect our people.”
The actions of Coromodir causes the Taurian Concordat to move within a week and take over the systems of Glizer, Qalzl, Aea and Regis Roost which were sandwiched between the Aurigan Collective and the Taurian Concordat.
With chaos still enveloping much of the Fronc Reaches there is no official word on the official reformation of the Aurigan Collective but actions speak louder than words as Colonel Emma McEvens lands on Detroit with her Household Guard and a mercenary regiment reinforcing positions there. She declares herself the new leader of the Fronc Reaches elsewhere fighting continues on other planets as the small battered nation continues to try and recover from the attack against its parliament.
Planetary Defence
Chesterton, Axton PDZ
Capellan March, Federated Suns
19th November 3117
Despite the talk of peace on Terra the Inner Sphere nations were still in a constant state of small-scale conflict with each other and with their neighbours, it didn’t matter how far one was from the front lines a world could face conflict meaning the nation’s armed forces had to keep alert to conflict. Many people joined the armed forces not for the adventure but because it was solid employment and the status as a member of the nation’s defence force brought with it a status that could not be bought. In the Federated Suns this was even more true with members of the AFFS being looked up to like the Knights of old Terra and serving the nation being a cornerstone of citizenship within the Succession State. To serve the Federated Suns and House Davion meant someone would be made for life; if they survived their term of service.
For others however the service was thrust on them as a duty to the nation like Duchess Leah Davion she as a daughter of the First Prince was always destined to join the Federated Suns. She had chosen to follow the footsteps of her mother Sterling McKenna, a former Khan of Clan Snow Raven, and become an aerospace fighter pilot which had led her into the position she was in now, in her Cutlass OmniFighter defending a world of the Federated Suns.
Leah’s fighter along with five others and a Leopard-CV were outbound from the world of Chesterton intercepting and incoming Lung Wang-class DropShip which was heading towards the planet. “This is Captain Kelly Scroggins of the Sixth New Avalon Guards RCT” the lead fighter of the six which had been deployed transmitting “you are ordered to turn away from Chesterton and prepare to be boarded.” At the back of the flight Leah was sat in her Cutlass waiting for the next action.
After several minutes there was only silence from the incoming DropShip before the signal expanded as two fighters were deployed. “They aren’t responding meaning they are a threat. One through Four we’re on the fighters were going to make sure they can’t threaten the Arethuse. We won’t fire unless they do.” She said naming their Leopard CV. “Five and Six, force the DropShip to change course, if they fire you’ve got authorization to open fire.” She ordered Leah sat in her fighter six was fighter number Six in the unit and they’d been tasked with taking on a two-thousand-and-six-hundred-ton DropShip. “This isn’t an invasion force, it’s a raiding party or a merc unit trying their luck, they won’t want us to fight them any more than we do.”
“Speak for yourself” Leah said quietly, she was desperate to get some action, since joining the Sixth she’d went through dozens of drills but not seen any combat. The four fighters accelerated after the two enemy fighters which had split up and were trying to make the Federated Suns fighters change their course.
“Six, you’re with me” her Flight Leader Justin Charters said as the front Cutlass accelerated “stick close Diva, we’re going to see how they react to a flyby.” She hated the callsign her squadron mates had assigned her she’d gained it because she was apparently the complete opposite of a Diva and too quiet for her own good. She’d decided as soon as she joined the service she wouldn’t play on her heritage as a member of the ruling house, she accelerated her Cutlass to follow Charters aerospace fighter.
The two Cutlass fighters approached the Lung Wang which had remained radio silent and had refused to communicate. Onboard would be four MechWarriors and a crew that were intending on landing on the planet. The two aircraft approached the small aerodyne DropShip from the aft and flew past the DropShip quickly “cut the nose Diva, just like we practiced.” Charters ordered “cutting the nose” was an intercept designed to turn away a ship that didn’t want a fight. So far despite being chased by AFFS fighters the two aggressor fighters had not fired and Charters was betting on the DropShip being the same. Unfortunately, the manoeuvre would also expose them to fire from the DropShip at point blank range should the DropShip commander decide now was a good time to engage them.
The two Cutlass accelerated faster than the Lung Wang with one aerospace fighter diving past the nose of the DropShip going one way and then the other diving past the nose the other way. The Lung Wang didn’t fire instead it continued on its course. “He’s not taking the hint Magnet; they could have broken communications?” she communicated to her wingman turning her fighter in an arc.
“There are ways of showing that, no they are ignoring us, right fine they want to be difficult. A Big X off their nose, Diva, no closer than fifty metres you hear me?”
“I got you” she said the two fighters began to approach the DropShip from either side as they closed on their target both opened fire with their nose mounted Gauss Rifles the two hypersonic slugs flew past the Lung Wang’s nose missing the target completely in an atmosphere it would have created two trails of disturbed air in front of the ship creating a massive “X” in space the DropShip’s sensors would have done the same.
That got a reaction as the slugs disappeared into space the DropShip pulled up and turned away from the flight path it was on arcing back towards the jump point. The two fighters which had been dancing around space with the rest of the squadron also turned away and arced back to tracks that would allow them to re-join the DropShip near the jump point.
“All fighters, this is Scoggins, break it off we’ll have no fight today.” The squadron leader communicated “Five and Six, I don’t remember saying you were authorised to use warning shots, nice job.” Kelly Scoggins said as the squadron turned back towards their carrier “Six, let today be a lesson, remember you can stop an attack by persuading an enemy that it’ll cost them more than they are willing to pay.” She said Leah sat in the Cutlass watching the DropShip and fighters moving away and thought that it would be nice if every fight would be so simple of an operation, but she also knew that wouldn’t be the case, she still didn’t have a combat victory under her belt but it felt good to have done something about people who could have hurt their people.
City Tour
Marion, Minette PDZ
Crucis March, Federated Suns
24th November 3117
The world of Sherwood had gained its name from the forests of old England on Terra and its climate was extremely comfortable to humanity. It had been an easy world for colonists to decide to move to hailing from as far as New Avalon and Belladonna in the Federated Suns and beyond to Terra herself as humanity expanded into the stars. Marion, the city he now stood in had expanded greatly under Nova Cat rule located at the southernmost edge of the Watling Mountain Range it always had a spaceport but both the spaceport and the city were larger than he remembered. The Nova Cats had used Sherwood as a trade hub funnelling goods into Sherwood before shipping the out into the Federated Suns and onto Clan Sea Fox’s holdings. As a result, they had added at least two new runways and nearly half a dozen additional DropShip landing pads as well as massive fuel storage facilities. Jonas wasn’t sure how the Federated Suns would support such facilities now it was back in their hands. Similarly, the capital’s mass transit systems had completely been renovated by the Nova Cats the lower tech railway replaced by Star League-era standard electric trains and trams.
He had fought for this feeling for years, he had spent his families fortune trying to see today, but it had not been his hand instead it had been an action by the AFFS which had freed Sherwood from the grasp of Clan Nova Cat. Now former-Earl Jonas Tyler could see the fruits of his labour and that of his nations and he could walk down the street of Marion, the world’s capital and wear the crest of his family with pride.
It felt strange to be back on Sherwood the world felt different the transit systems were just one part. The additional civilians who inhabited the changed the feeling around the city from what Tyler understood most of the civilians were non-Nova Cat by birth having been moved here by the Clan to work the enlarged spaceport, storage facilities, mass transit systems and the BattleMech factory which was located on the world. The Nova Cats had turned Sherwood into a prize one that the Federated Suns had finally liberated. Strangely as he walked around Tyler noticed that there were murals which had been painted on the side of buildings many of the Similarly, size of a BattleMech most of them depicted Clan Nova Cat BattleMechs, armour, Battle Armour, soldiers and even the nova cat animal defending the people of the world. Tyler found it strange having never imagined that the people would be allowed to express themselves so publicly under Nova Cat rule. He wondered how much he had misjudged how this world was being treated for years.
As he walked through the streets, he came across a street market selling various goods as he walked along, he spotted Kimberly Mathijsen running one of the stalls, she was in her sixties now but still seemed vibrant with life as she traded her goods to the people passing by. The Mathijsen stall was well known for its exotic fruit juices and wines. “Mrs Mathijsen!” Tyler greeted her as he approached the stall, she looked shocked for several moments looking at him strangely “it’s me Jonas Tyler.”
“Welcome to my stall, sir… I mean sire” she stammered over the word almost like it was alien to her. “How can I help you?” She asked formally
“Mrs Mathijsen, don’t you remember me?”
“My name is Kimberly young man I have given up that name, life is simpler when we accept that.” She said “now how can I help you?” She said indicating to the goods.
“I’ll have this” he said picking up a 750ml bottle of the famous Sherwood’s Green Apple Juice.
“That will be four Kerensky’s” she said listing the price, Jonas had heard that the world was still dealing in Kerensky’s when he had landed, he’d been given some at the spaceport in exchange for an equal amount of D-Bills. At the price he’d paid elsewhere he’d have spent two or three times that in D-Bills. “And watch your contractions” the old woman said smiling as she accepted his coins.
Jonas walked away feeling strange he’d never known Mrs Mathijsen very well only when his father took him through the market and bought him some juice, but he found it strange she’d adapted so readily to the Nova Cat way of things abandoning her family name. Family was important, it was a connection to your past and to your children it seemed unthinkable to Jonas whose family name was all that was important. Like them still holding onto the Clan currency it seemed his world would have a long road to recovery from what the Nova Cats had caused here. He walked down the street and sipped the cold still apple juice, even with all the things that had changed the juice had not the cold sweet taste was exactly as he remembered.
Continuing down the street he stopped as he saw another drawing on the world, he guessed it was new by what was depicted. Unlike the other mural paintings which showed the Nova Cats in various forms defending the people of Sherwood, this one had far darker undertones and had been done quickly, possibly because the person painting it had been worried about being seen, the picture showed a Federated Suns flagpole which had been snapped in half the flag pointing into the ground being torn to pieces by a nova cat animal. “What have they done to my world?” Jonas wondered to himself looking at the picture transfixed with the image, the artist had skills but it also made Jonas wonder if this was the act of one person or of many. He vowed to himself as he continued to drink the apple juice that he would return Sherwood to the correct path.
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Burton and Dad are not on the same page
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Unfortunately, Burton focus is on the future of the Federated Suns. Growing blinder to the what happens else where, will effect the FedSuns. Its way of the universe.
Burton been difficult with his son, I expect that there will be severe break between them. It will be interesting if his son turn on the father, he has it coming the way Burton's been lately.
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Time to end 3117 - its taken a little longer than I expected :-\ but we're here with some changes for what's to come in the future. The intent of this update is to show the continued adaption of canon to this AU, every new product I buy gives me an idea of how to make this AU better (at least I hope I make it better - but that's up to you lot!)
Weapons Test
Near Riken Minor, Rigil Kentarus
Star League Protectorate
2nd December 3117
From the surface of Riken Minor, a moon around Rigil Kentarus, six aerospace fighters launched in close formation. The fighters were too close together to be manned their manoeuvres too precise the six thirty-five-ton aerospace fighters rose quickly from the surface of the moon heading for a rendezvous with an orbiting DropShip. The spheroid thirty-six thousand tonne Tiamat Pocket WarShip orbited the moon silently the landing bay doors opening allowing the drones to land completely remotely. Like the fighters the Tiamat was controlled by a drone brain and maintained orbit above the moon standing guard and keeping unwanted traffic out of the area.
Near to the Tiamat’s orbit two Tug DropShips towed a damaged Behemoth-class DropShip through space in another orbit the two Tugs released the DropShip and turned away raising themselves into higher orbit allowing derelict ship to spin free. Moments later several naval lasers lanced out of the moon and cut straight through the Behemoth slicing it in half. In a follow up attack several capital missiles slammed into the two pieces of DropShip obliterating the remains of the wreck. This test was one of many which had taken place recently but it was by far the most public one the destruction of a DropShip the size of the Behemoth was impossible to hide from public eyes instead the test was a demonstration that Centaur Castle was now operational. It was also a demonstration that the experimental Casper II Drone Fleet was also now in its test phase, the Casper II system was one intended on supporting the Casper Drone Fleet and would be built up using drone DropShips and Aerospace Fighters. The Centaur Castle Brian Facility was a stationary defensive position and with the drones which would be deployed from it they could influence the entire system.
Two weeks later on the surface of Rigil Kentarus in the capital city of Minnesota two men met in a coffee shop near the spaceport as the shop’s tri-vid screens continued to play the Star League Defence Forces’ successful test of “Centaur Castle’s weapons.” As the two men drank their coffee the older of the two looked up at the screens.
“They’ve changed the game you know?” Christopher Grant said looking over at the other man in the last few years he had undergone significant cosmetic surgery so being out here in the open wouldn’t set off too many alarm bells. There were still arrest warrants out in his name in the Federated Suns for the assassination of Tancred Sandoval. “Soon everyone will need their own personal WarShip to compete and BattleMechs will be a thing of the past.”
“I disagree, a WarShip cannot take ground and hold it, they can only obliterate it. They also cannot take out selective targets, if you want to take out one person use a Mech or a knife instead of capital weaponry, and we’ve shown several times that a BattleMech team can do a job and disappear.” The younger man Dominic Nostra said in response he had spent five years learning from the current Bounty Hunter and had come a long way from the Rim Collection disgraced Colonel that Christopher had recruited.
“That’ll be your fight to fight” the Bounty Hunter said looking over at the other man who looked surprised Christopher Grant was only forty-six years old, he was in his prime and could live fifty-or-sixty years. “I’ve lost the appetite for it.” He said honestly “the blood and fighting doesn’t interest me anymore, I gave many years to the Federated Suns and I’ve given many years to this, I’ve laid aside plenty its time I enjoyed it.” He said Dominic Nostra had been trained in the Rim Collection, he had raised in rank to that of Colonel he wasn’t that much younger than Grant but he’d also only been working for himself for three years and his accounts in the Free Worlds League were frozen. “I have spoken to the others before speaking to you” Grant continued surprising Nostra again “tradition states that when one Bounty Hunter retires the team do too. Fortunately for you most of them have chosen to remain as part of the command, it seems I've retired a little quicker than most were expecting and they all want to earn a little more coin before they retire.”
“That’s fortunate” Nostra admitted, the longest serving member of the unit a VTOL pilot named Kafka had served with two Bounty Hunters already and must have amassed plenty C-Bills but she appeared to be quite happy to remain within the command.
“Yes, you can continue on as if nothing has changed.” Grant said “and I will quietly disappear.”
“Good luck, enjoy your retirement.” Nostra said raising his coffee glass as the video screen showed the DropShip being obliterated again, it was a changing Inner Sphere but he planned on making the job pay.
Planetary Invasion, DCMS Staging Area
Awano, Awano Prefecture
District of Philadelphia, Draconis Combine
14th December 3117
In space three Draconis Combine WarShips were heavily engaged with four Rasalhague Dominion WarShips which had arrived escorting more than a Galaxy of troops which had arrived to strike at the Draconis Combine staging area on Awano.
Dropping through the atmosphere in his Executioner OmniMech Star Commander Coyle Bekker dropped down towards the Draconis Combine base below. The ninety-five-ton OmniMech was configured in its alternate K configuration mounting a huge class-40 Hyper Assault Gauss and three six-pack short range missile launchers. The jump jets mounted on the OmniMech blazed plasma fire slowing the OmniMech’s fall towards the ground Coyle Bekker was not prepared to simply fall instead he targeted an enemy Catapult. Firing the HAG-40 down towards the sixty-five-ton BattleMech, gauss slugs tore into the upper hull of the Catapult the supersonic slugs pitting the other Mech’s armour as the Executioner closed on it. The Catapult pilot returned fire with its two long range missile launchers filling the air with thirty missiles several slammed into the falling Executioner causing damage to its legs the Executioner was knocked off course slightly.
At the controls of the Executioner Coyle Bekker fought the OmniMech keeping it on course he aimed his HAG-40 again and pulled the trigger sending another volley of gauss slugs down towards the Catapult. Because of the falling range between the two Mechs the slugs were closer packed and flew in on the Catapult causing heavier damage, as the Executioner came in for a landing the Catapult pilot fought to keep control over their BattleMech. Coyle Bekker brought his OmniMech up as the Catapult pilot attempted to counter the Executioner by engaging the Mech with its four Medium Lasers, three of which burned into the armour of the assault OmniMech. Coyle smiled baring his teeth and opened fire with eighteen short range missiles showering the other BattleMech in fire, unlike the gauss slugs which did their damage with kinetic energy instead of explosive warheads the short-range missiles were filled with an explosive payload. The Catapult staggered under the fire as its armour was blown open. One of the two Long Range Missile racks exploded under the fire while the ammunition stored inside its torso was cocked off and exploded after being hit by a missile. CASE panels built into the BattleMech attempted to save the BattleMech but Coyle had already decided that would not be happening and he added another volley of missiles to the already crippled BattleMech, the attack shattered any hope the MechWarrior may have had of surviving the encounter and they punched out as the Catapult began to stumble and fall.
All around Coyle Bekker BattleMechs, Battle Armour and fighters were engaging each other in battles, Clan tradition stated a Clan warrior did not get involved in the battles of other warriors instead allowing them to engage in honour duels with their enemies. But the Draconis Combine troops were not honourable according to the Rasalhague Dominion’s leaders, recently it had been revealed that it was the Draconis Combine and not the Rasalhague Dominion which had detonated a nuclear device on Rasalhague Dominion soil. Instead of searching for another opponent Coyle twisted the Executioner’s torso to the right and opened fire with the OmniMech’s short range missile racks, eighteen missiles burst out of their launchers and flew rapidly into the back of a forty-five-ton Wolftrap. At close range the missiles didn’t take long to reach the enemy Mech and the attack was devastating, as the BattleMech’s rear armour was far lighter than the front armour the damage that was done to the Wolftrap was devastating. Explosions tore open the Mech’s rear armour the ammunition stored in the Mech’s torso was hit by several missiles and caused a fireball to consume the Wolftrap tearing it to pieces.
Time was not to be wasted as the Rasalhague Dominion troops continued to assault the Draconis Combine forces at the centre of the assault force Coyle Bekker continued his own personal crusade against the Rasalhague Dominion. Twisting the Executioner to the right he saw a pair of forty-ton Shillelagh Missile Tank both tanks engaged his assault Mech with their Multi-Missile Launchers thirty missiles flew in on the charging Rasalhague Dominion Mech. Bekker ducked his Mech to the right attempting to avoid some of the missiles even as he targeted the first Mech with the HAG. The missiles exploded all over the hull of the Executioner causing explosions but none punctured its armoured frame several more exploded all around the OmniMech throwing sand and shrapnel into the air, Bekker charged forwards through the fire ignoring the damage as the HAG continued to fire. The Executioner’s Gauss Rifle tore down the side of the first Shillelah the hypersonic slugs flew into the side of the tracked vehicle penetrating the armour in several places causing internal damage. The second Shillelagh opened fire a second time showering the Executioner with another volley of missiles at closer range the Shillelah switched to using short range missiles and they were more accurate. Several slammed into the weaker armour on the OmniMech’s back but they failed to penetrate instead they threw Bekker around his cockpit and unfortunately for him angered the Ghost Bear Warrior. Turning on the spot the Executioner’s missile racks answered the Shillelah’s fire with its own missiles pumping eighteen short range missiles into his target. Several of the missiles slammed into the same spot weakening the armour enough to expose its ammunition bay Bekker screamed angrily as he marched towards the enemy vehicle putting another eighteen missiles into the target. It was overkill but he wanted the missile tank dead his missiles slammed into the smaller vehicle several hitting the exposed ammunition storage. The resulting explosion which consumed the vehicle resembled a small supernova as a mixture of long- and short-range missiles and machine gun ammunition all cooked over obliterating the vehicle in one massive explosion followed by a series of secondary explosions. Pieces of the vehicle were thrown across the battlefield for hundreds of metres.
Bekker stood there for several moments watching the Shillelah burn when a particle cannon blast exploded over Executioner’s chest. Turning the OmniMech Coyle Bekker saw his newest challenger an Awesome BattleMech armed with three Heavy Particle Projection Cannons. “Finally, a worthy challenger.” Accelerating his ninety-five-ton OmniMech to the right Bekker targeted the incoming Awesome with his HAG sand blasting armour from the eighty-ton red painted Draconis Combine BattleMech as dozens of supersonic slugs slammed into the enemy Mech.
The Awesome tracked the running the Executioner as Bekker’s Mech ran to its right-hand side, three more heavy particle cannon shots momentarily linked the two Mechs as the Awesome opened fire again. The electrical charged bolts burned over the Executioners armour and threw off the Mech’s step Bekker fought to keep the OmniMech standing as it continued to run, in retaliation he twisted the left arm towards his target and opened fire with all three short range missile launchers.
Explosions rocked the Awesome shattering its armour but the assault BattleMech was ready for an attack and stood up to the beating. Bekker twisted his Mech’s torso and opened fire with the HAG peppering more armour off the Awesome but it immediately retaliated with three more particle cannon blasts. Only two of the cannons found their target while the other burned across the ground throwing up sand, the two that struck the Executioner caused more heavy armour damage with the Executioner damaged in the previous battles the two particle cannon shots severely damaged the right leg actuator and locked the left arm in its extended position.
Unable to aim the arm’s short-range missiles Bekker kept the Mech standing and fired them blindly before turning the torso and blasting the HAG at the target. The majority of the short-range missiles went wild missing their target while eight of the missiles found their target damaging one of the Awesome’s particle cannons, an internal explosion inside the BattleMech completely ruined the weapon. The HAG’s follow up attack shattered yet more armour but it did not have the concentrated killer blow that some of the heavier Clan weapons had and the Awesome remained standing. With its two remaining heavy particle cannons the Awesome opened fire again this time the man-made lightning bolts shattered what remained of the left arm one of the bolts passing clearly through the Executioner’s superstructure blowing the arm away from the Mech’s body sending shrapnel everywhere. Bekker gritted his teeth levelling his only weapon, the class-forty Hyper Assault Gauss rifle, at his target his Mech was now at a distinct disadvantage. While the class-forty was a powerful weapon unlike the two remaining heavy particle cannons on the Awesome he lacked the killer punch.
The supersonic slugs tore into the Awesome shaving armour off the chassis but only causing significant damage in a couple of places Coyle Bekker could see a shattered heat sink was leaking its coolant fluid down the front of the BattleMech as he prepared for the incoming barrage. The assault he expected did not come instead lasers, missiles and autocannons from all sides came in on the Awesome causing heavy damage to the Mech. A heavy assault autocannon penetrated the BattleMech’s armour and blew through the engine shielding causing the BattleMech to be consumed by the weapons fired at it.
Coyle Bekker was about to call out the other Ghost Bear warriors for attacking his target but he remembered his assault on the Wolftrap and the orders from the Rasalhague Dominion leadership to give the Draconis Combine warriors no honour or mercy, they were to be wiped out. In all four BattleMech Regiments, an entire Land-Air-Mech Regiment and several support regiments were wiped out by the Rasalhague Dominion assault. In space a dozen assault DropShips and four Draconis Combine WarShips were destroyed as were three Rasalhague Dominion vessels with a fourth vessel the mighty Leviathan 2-class Battleship Rudigen crippled as the Rasalhague Dominion seized the important staging world.
In the coming days two more systems fall to the Rasalhague Dominion as the Clan/Inner Sphere nation makes it clear to everyone via a broadband HPG message that they know the Draconis Combine were responsible for the nuclear attack against their nation and the Dieron War. The Rasalhague Dominion made it absolutely clear that the Draconis Combine would never see a lasting peace with them.
Planetary Landing
Penny Marshal Landing Field
Coromodir V, Aurigan Collective
24th December 3117
The Leopard-class DropShip came to a halt at the end of the landing zone and two Pacifier SecurityMechs moved towards it along with a Routemaster Shuttlebus coming to a stop several dozen metres away from the DropShip. After several minutes several figures left the DropShip and headed over to the shuttlebus which moved across towards the tower, the hovercraft effortlessly moving over the ferrocrete maintaining pace with two SecurityMechs. When it arrived three figures left the shuttlebus and entered the facility.
Soon afterwards the three figures entered the conference room escorted by guards “Colonel… I mean Prince Marshal Emma McEvens of the Fronc Reaches.” The guard announced
“Welcome to Coromodir” High Lady Kamea Arano said she had chosen to meet her guest here instead of taking them to the palace and allowing their nearest neighbour to see what was going on within their capital.
“Thank you, Lady Arano, I am here to inform you that we have put down the rebellion that the Fronc Reaches has endured. I have taken the mantle of leadership until a new government is elected by all worlds and that Coromodir is welcome to return and retake its place.”
“As you have taken the role of Prince Marshal, I too have taken another role. I am now the High Lady of the Aurigan Collective the worlds around us have turned to Coromodir in their time of need, we are helping them. You cannot force this issue Prince Marshal” she said respecting McEvens position. “You need to draw your nation back together, beginning a war is not the way.”
“I am drawing my nation together. I am opening up a ballot for a new government and Prince Marshal.”
“And investigating what happened at the Tower of Fronc?” Kamea Arano asked reminding the other woman of her obligation to find out what happened to the previous government. Emma McEvens in her mid-fifties was twenty years Kamea Arano’s senior but given the Fronc Reaches perilous position at present she was finding it hard to force anyone to do anything. While widespread fighting had ended in the Fronc Reaches there was still unrest in several places.
“Yes, of course” McEvens agreed “and we would do better if you were with us.”
“We’re with you, Prince Marshal, we’re certainly not against you. But we will not be re-joining Fronc in an alliance, not now.” Kamea Arano replied “the three regiments that have joined with Coromodir will remain under my command…”
“They are Fronc units, their equipment belongs to the Colonial Marshals and to Fronc!” McEvens snapped angrily.
“The decision is made; you have the forces to oppose us if you really want to. But I would suggest you do not, I have several negotiators on their way to Herotitus and Galatea Station we will be hiring several mercenary units to bolster our numbers and protect our worlds from pirate forces.” Arano warned her.
“I understand” McEvens replied
“We will however extend all of the support we can to your nation and provide all the intelligence we can to help you find out what happened to the Tower of Fronc and our people.”
“I agreed” McEvens said through gritted teeth both of the women knew that there could be serious trouble between their two small nations but for now a peace would exist and each of them would be able to grow as they needed.
Clan Parades
Andrey, Tukayyid
Clan Occupied Space
23rd December 3117
Today was a special day for Tukayyid the Clans were meeting on the world with dozens of additional Clan warriors on the planet as was tradition the arrival of each Clan began with a parade through the central streets of the capital Andrey with approximately a trinary of troops from each Clan making the journey to the Clan Hall. On the arrival of Clan Lynx, the parade was extra special and large with dozens of BattleMechs, vehicles and battle armour moving through the street as Clan Lynx brought its entire complement of Bloodnamed warriors to the world.
At the Council of the Clans each of the Khans and saKhans arrived to meet and discuss the issues facing their Clans often this involved military operations, new technology developments and trade. But this particular meeting was a special one and would address a problem that was developing within all the Clans.
“So, it is agreed” Loremaster of the Clans Sandra Ward replied “today, all of you recognize that as a society our Clans must embrace the cultures that make up our Clans. We have over time accepted warriors from other Clans through the Harvest Trials these warriors deserve the right to become Bloodnamed warriors. We also have encountered cultures in the Inner Sphere which have influenced us and warriors who have joined our ranks as Freeborns we have to give them a chance to become one with the Clans.” She said it had taken some time for the Jade Falcons and Lynx to agree to the change but eventually all of the Clans had agreed to the change in Clan policy, some of them would embrace the change whole heartedly others it would take more time. “When Clans fall or contact is lost with them some of their Bloodnamed warriors are invariably left without contact with the Bloodhouse of their birth and training.”
“This Council has taken the first step to mend the damage done to our people by the loss of contact with the Homeworlds and by the fall of several Clans since we came to the Inner Sphere.” She said several Clans had ceased to exist through actions in the Homeworlds and through failed attacks against the Inner Sphere including Clans Ice Hellion, Blood Spirit, Goliath Scorpion and the three Serpent Clans Cloud Cobra, Star Adder and Steel Viper. “To allow the warriors who fight valiantly for our Clans the honour of fighting for a Bloodname and joining the ranks of the Bloodnamed with the Edict of Severance.” Sandra Ward said of the two edicts decided by this Clan Council this had been the easiest to pass all of the Clans had members of fallen Clans in their ranks many of them wanting to become part of the ranks of the Bloodnamed. The Edict of Severance allowed Trueborn warriors of fallen Bloodhouses to fight Trials and essentially re-found their Bloodhouses, starting them again from the beginning. “The founders of these Bloodhouses will afford their house with prestige based on the warrior’s performance in a Trial with a single victory there will be five slots awarded to that house, two will afford ten and three victories will bring fifteen slots and great prestige to the reformed house. Once a Bloodhouse has been reformed any serving Trueborn member of the legacy house will be allowed to fight for one of these slots.” She said explaining all that had been agreed at the Clan Council, given that any surviving warrior would then be able to fight for the Bloodhouse there would be an amount of pressure on the competing warrior. “These warriors will bring honour to their names and add to our Clans.”
“Secondly as decreed by this council freeborns who have been accepted as warriors into our Clans will be allowed to attempt to found new Bloodhouses in a Trial of Founding.” This had been harder to pass but as Clans Wolf, Ghost Bear and Snow Raven already founded new Bloodhouses through their own actions the measure had passed. “These freeborns will be allowed to fight Trials and found new houses which will bring new Bloodnamed warriors into our society. Our Clans will accept these new Bloodhouses and honour them with the prestige they deserve based on the performance of the founding member of the house, like the Edict of Severance this will be based on victories in Trials one will equal three, two victories will earn six positions while three will earn nine. Unlike the reformed Trueborn houses these will be new to our Clans and they will have to wait until sibkos produce new warriors to fill their ranks and gain further prestige.” The final part had been added on the insistence of Clans Wolf, Jade Falcon, Lynx and Hell’s Horses who did not want a flood of freeborn warriors to join the Bloodnamed ranks “diluting them.”
“Finally,” Sandra Ward said seeing that the assembled Khans were bored having already discussed the details of this agreement for two days, she had stressed it was important as the details would be broadcast throughout the Inner Sphere and Periphery to all clan citizens and to the Succession States showing the changes the Clans were making. “The Clan Bloodhouses which have unilaterally been founded by the Clans will be fully recognized as houses in their own right including Kell, Magnesson, Mansdotter and Avellar. All warriors who have already won a Bloodname will be allowed to keep it and retain the honour they have already won, for these houses to expand Trueborns already born within that house will have to fight a Trial of Founding of their own to expand those houses.” It was one stipulation nearly demanded by the Council that the four Bloodhouses while already established within their Clans of origin would not be allowed to simply expand without any sort of control.
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Four days of later on Tukayyid Clan Lynx gathered three kilometres south of the city of Tost. This had been chosen as Clan Lynx had been founded from Clan Nova Cat and during the Battle of Tukayyid Clan Nova Cat had fought the ComGuards for control over the city of Tost with many Nova Cats dying in the attempt. In this particular crater an entire binary of Nova Cats had been surrounded and fought for their lives against a numerically superior ComGuard force with warriors of the Star not only surviving the assault but breaking out and returning to Clan lines. There was Clan blood on this soil already as well as a Clan victory today a freeborn warrior Star Commander Alwyn of Clan Lynx had the honour of fighting for his name’s future. Standing in the middle of the crater Alwyn’s Dragon Cat OmniMech stood proudly waiting for the trial to begin, the OmniMech was like its sister design the Nova Cat an unpopular one within Clan Lynx due to the reminder that it came from Clan Nova Cat, like the Clan itself.
At three points around the crater stood a Lynx BattleMech ready to meet the Dragon Cat’s challenge. As per the dueling rules of Zellbrigen the Mechs would engage the enemy in sequence not engaging the Dragon Cat until they themselves were engaged, the MechWarriors were allowed to move their Mech but only within a small part of their defined areas and not past any of the other trial Mechs as that could lead to Zellbrigen being “accidentally” violated.
“Star Commander Alwyn, your Trial of Founding begins when you are ready.” Loremaster of Clan Lynx Star Admiral Chelsea Drummond said around the perimeter of the crater stood every Bloodnamed warrior of the Clan ready to witness the victory or failure of one of their own warriors.
“Aff” Alwyn replied gruffly the seventy-ton Dragon Cat configured in its Alternate I configuration suddenly spun to the right-hand side the Mech’s legs moving as the torso also twisted suddenly the Mech’s left arm mounted triple Extended Range Large Lasers and its left arm class-10 autocannon exploded into life targeting the heaviest of the three Mech’s arrayed against him a seventy-five-ton Black Python.
The Clans had been allowed to determine how the Trials were fought by themselves. As was Clan Lynx Trial tradition it had been decided that these Trials would be fought against three very different BattleMechs one of the class of Mech piloted by the challenger warrior, one of the weight class below and one of the smallest class. The suggestion being that the MechWarrior would target the lightest first giving them a greater chance of winning the Trial quickly and earning their position, the MechWarrior piloting the lightest Mech would also be the most elite and most difficult to defeat.
Alwyn had defied the suspicion of targeting the lightest Mech and caught the Black Python pilot completely unaware and while the Mech was moving it was moving quite slowly. All three large lasers connected with the right arm on the seventy-five-ton BattleMech vaporising the armour there blowing through the internal structure and severely damaging the arm to the point that it would be useless in this fight. The autocannon thundered over the torso of the BattleMech pitting its armour as explosive slugs tore and rutted the armour mounted there. The Black Python was far from out of the battle while the damaged arm was useless and the medium pulse lasers mounted there were out of the battle the heavy BattleMech was a duelling Mech with a punishing array of pulse lasers. These lasers spat out bolts of energy at the running Dragon Cat large and medium pulses of energy burning the armour of the slightly smaller OmniMech damaging the left leg, arm and torso. Alwyn ignored the damage; the Dragon Cat had been designed by the Nova Cats to take damage and dish it out running at the Black Python Alwyn triggered the autocannon and two of the large lasers again this time trying to manage the heat which the OmniMech produced as the cockpit’s temperature continued to raise.
Using the integrated targeting computer buried deeply in the Dragon Cat’s torso the autocannon shots and large lasers were all targeted on a single location on the Black Python, the right leg, the lasers impacted first burning away armour and exposing the internal structure then the ultra-autocannon shots followed pounding though the remains of the armour and hammering the structure. A second round of heavy weapons fire was too much fighting for the Black Python’s pilot and he lost his balance the heavy BattleMech missing its step and crumpling over the damaged right leg mid-run. The heavy Mech crashed into the ground with an audible bang while heavily damaged the Mech was not out of the right so Alwyn stocked up to the downed BattleMech and aimed his lasers at the cockpit ready to fire if the pilot did not shut down his weapons. BattleMech combat could be a brutal thing it could last hours as MechWarriors played games of cat-and-mouse or like this in the open it could simply brutal and be over in minutes. The Black Python MechWarrior shut down his weapons systems surrendering the fight confirming Alwyn’s position as a Bloodhouse Founder.
Alwyn Stekhnovskii turned away from the defeated Black Python, he had been born in the Draconis Combine outback on the world of Salford. He had missed the battle for his planet and been allowed to compete to become a Freeborn warrior following the founding of Clan Lynx from Clan Nova Cat’s invading forces. As he turned the Dragon Cat took a gauss rifle slug in the gut as the second enemy a Stormcrow engaged him, as Alwyn had started the Trial the next opponent was free to engage when they were ready, OmniMechs were the pinnacle of Clan technology and sometimes described as being extensions of the human body with the accuracy of their movements. The Dragon Cat was a vaguely humanoid design like its sister design, the Nova Cat, it featured back-canted legs giving it a strange appearance. The gut shot had forced the Mech to lean forwards but it wasn’t out of the fight instead Alwyn brought the arm mounted autocannon up to fire and sprayed a pair of volleys over the enemy Mech. The shots exploded over the Stormcrow’s chest damaging the armour mounted there the Stormcrow pilot was braced for the attack the fifty-five-ton OmniMech’s legs in a wide stance helping absorb the impact, the pilot turned towards the Dragon Cat and fired four Improved Heavy Medium Lasers. The oversized and power opal coloured energy beams lashed out at the Dragon Cat three of them burning sizable holes in the OmniMech’s armour while the fourth missed wide.
In the cockpit Alwyn Stekhnovskii grunted in pain, one of the beams had impacted just below his OmniMech’s cockpit throwing him around and causing his head to be cracked against one of the consoles. The neuralhelmet he wore had protected him from major injury but he still had felt the impact. Twisting the Dragon Cat’s controls, he levelled the autocannon back at the lighter Mech and fired by now the Stormcrow was moving at speed running around the crater attempting to make the shot more difficult but because of the size of the crater there was little chance of a complete miss. Only about half of the autocannon rounds connected with the Stormcrow but they were enough to damage the left leg of the running Mech. The Stormcrow retaliated twisting its Mech and firing its gauss rifle again fortunately for Alwyn’s Dragon Cat the supersonic slug flew high past the seventy-ton OmniMech and imbedded itself deeply in the crater wall shattering the rock face.
Taking advantage of the Stormcrow’s miss Alwyn opened fire with all three large lasers blasting away at the Stormcrow’s armour with two of the lasers as they bored deeply through the right arm and torso. The laser blast which cut across the arm triggered a secondary explosion as it hit one of the lasers mounted there the internal explosion caused a second which blew the entire arm to pieces causing it to fall limp at the side of the Mech only attached by shredded myomer bundles. Robbed of the majority of its firepower the Stormcrow opened fire with its gauss rifle in response this time striking the Dragon Cat tearing open a section of armour. It was a slugging match, there was no room for errors or cover to help either Mech cool down instead Alwyn planted his overheating Mech’s legs and opened fire with the autocannon again this time striking the already damaged left leg and left arm on the Stormcrow disabling the gauss rifle there, with no weapons the Stormcrow shut down his Mech’s systems unwilling to engage in physical combat.
“Two down!” Alwyn shouted triumphantly his victory was short lived however as the Dragon Cat was slammed by twenty long range missiles which coated the upper surface of the OmniMech even as Alwyn sighted the Cougar OmniMech which was engaging him. Even before he could fire the thirty-five-ton OmniMech was engaging him with its secondary weapons the extremely accurate paired large pulse lasers both had been targeted on the already damaged left torso consecutive blue/green pulses of high-powered energy slammed into the Dragon Cat destroying the last armour there. In the cockpit of the OmniMech the temperature shot up as the extra-light fusion engine its heart was damaged.
Barely able to control the heat up before Alwyn had no choice but to fire only a single large laser with the autocannon suddenly his Mech became the hunted as the Cougar maneuverer to fire its pulse lasers keeping up a near constant barrage as the missiles reloaded. The lighter OmniMech could move as fast as the Dragon Cat and was not damaged while Alwyn’s Mech was damaged, struggling with heat build up and running low on autocannon ammunition. Instead of fighting until the destruction of his OmniMech and most likely his death Alwyn signalled his intention to surrender shutting down the targeting system another volley of long-range missiles slammed into the Dragon Cat making Alwyn worry he had left himself defenceless but then realized the enemy pilot had fired them before he had begun to power down, a perfectly reasonable action given the considerable firepower the Dragon Cat still wielded even in its damaged state. He was victorious and had secured six places within his Bloodhouse for future generations born with his DNA, a century from now Stekhnovskii would be a name which could be as known as that of Kerensky, Rosse or Pryde. After today Alwyn’s DNA would be added to the genetic breeding program of Clan Lynx creating the next generation of his Clan’s warriors.
“Arise, Star Commander Alwyn Stekhnovskii, Founder of the Stekhnovskii Bloodhouse” Loremaster Chelsea Drummond said over the radio frequencies. “Clan Lynx, honour him” she said suddenly through the radio every linked in Lynx warrior said in unison “Seyla!” While he had been born a freeborn Alwyn Stekhnovskii was now among the elite of the Clans, none of them would look down on his heritage again he had proven himself to his adopted Clan.
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In the attached are up to date Units and WarShips
At the following link is the up to date map on OBT. Should anyone read this timeline and not be on OurBattleTech, I first ask why ;D and then say feel free to PM me and I can email it to you directly unfortunately it is too large to attach here (even in a zipped file annoyingly)
https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/dragon-cat-collection/maps/30/#lastPost (https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/dragon-cat-collection/maps/30/#lastPost)
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Interesting way to secure bloodhouses
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Interesting way to secure bloodhouses
It's the canon way from Shrapnel short story The Great Reavings
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It's the canon way from Shrapnel short story The Great Reavings
have not read that one
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Neither have I. Now I want to read it. :D
Was wondering when this timeline would answer that. Interesting. Now I am getting some ideas. 8)
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Absolutely superb stuff.
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have not read that one
Neither have I. Now I want to read it. :D
Was wondering when this timeline would answer that. Interesting. Now I am getting some ideas. 8)
There is a two further elements to the two Trials I have picked which is The Trials of Propagation and The Great Reavings themselves
I get the feeling the idea was to foster competition within the Clans two elements I am not using are all about increasing the size of the Bloodhouses and decreasing them (Propagation + Reaving -) I don't need them as my Clans still have wars to fight and Terra to conquer... >:D
The Edict of Severance was created with the same to appease the warriors from the Homeworlds who were cut off from their Clans (works well with this timeline)
The Trial of Founding likewise works the same way as in this timeline allowing a freeborn to compete and win a Bloodname (i.e. their own) back and become part of the elite within the Clan. (again works within this timeline)
The story outlines how the Clans have adopted it and how each of them have approached the same options (it's a good story and rules explanation.) The available slots thing described in the story are just for this timeline the canon story uses a slightly different method which I'm not going to spoil here. I actually cannot remember if a Bloodhouse an be "wiped out" by the Great Reavings method I'll have to read it again, but for now I won't be adopting it so it doesn't have any bearing on this AU
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THANK YOU FOR THE INFO
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Jumping into 3118 - starting with a big part from James Tanaga which sees a nation and a Clan continue their evolution together (I'll have fun with that later >:D), another part later on in this update is heavily influence by the opening fiction of 3118. Hope you all enjoy and my thanks too James Tanaga - additions like this are why this AU has kept going as long as it has the support I've had is awesome and anyone ever has an idea feel free to mention it. There's another impressive fan created project which has previously been referenced and will be again later in this AU (more to come soon)
3118
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Fire Mandrill Border Incursion
Kaumberg Theatre, Alarion Province
Lyran Commonwealth
1st January 3118
At the stroke of midnight to inaugurate the New Year, a short HPG signal containing only one word, one name, was sent throughout the Rim Collection and into neighbouring nations. “Natasha.” To some it was received with confusion to others it was a rallying cry. Upon receiving the signal, the Fire Mandrills and Rim Collection military and security forces struck numerous systems along the Collection-Lyran border acting out plans that had been made months in advance. Their immediate task was twofold: capture all systems within two jumps of the Collection’s vitally important Viborg Fleetyards; And to destroy any and all Fesnyng units along their border with the Lyran Commonwealth, while showcasing six new units; First, Second, Third, Fourth Rim Hussars, Fourth Rim Lancers, and Eighty-Fourth Assault Clusters.
The focal point of the attack was the ten Lyran systems within two jumps of Viborg. Heavily supported by national militia forces and using the element of surprise to great effect, the Mandrills take all but two target worlds with seventy-two hours, largely meeting only token resistance from shocked or lacklustre militia forces.
On Halifax, the Lyran’s Second Fesnyng and Halifax Militia are caught flatfooted due to the New Year’s celebrations and most personnel are at home or not near to the main base, the Rim Collection border had been quiet recently. Today Halifax was anything as quiet as the Thirty-first Rim Lancers destroys the largely piecemeal forces. For the remainder of the month, those members that had escaped the destruction of the base are methodically hunted down by the Thirty-first Rim Lancers assisting Rim Militia forces and the Mandrill Watch. Those forces that surrender are briefly held for questioning before being released while all resistance is put down harshly.
Home to the largest militia concentration on the Lyran border, the Rim Collection deployed four clusters to Florida as it anticipated heavy resistance. A night-time orbital drop by the power armour assets of the Fourth Rim Guards Cluster effectively captured the bulk of the Florida Militia that were in Barracks. Unfortunately, large amounts of militia and Lyran national forces on leave on the planet melted into the local population and quickly allowed a guerrilla force to grow. The primary guerrilla threat would not be put down until the end of the month and finally cemented the Collection’s firm control over the planet but caused the deaths of nearly a thousand civilians. Even with full control the planet’s pacification was far from guaranteed and continued to use extensive garrison forces to be kept under control, protests and riots are a frequent occurrence in several settlements. Only the Mandrill’s refusal to use Jade Falcon or Smoke Jaguar-esque tactics saves the world from becoming another Turtle Bay.
New India was the other location where Lyran resistance was expected to be heavy. Again, the Mandrills deployed five clusters. Unfortunately, the surprising appearance of the LCS Thunder, a Hyperion-class Heavy Destroyer, destroys the escorting the York-class Carrier RCS Firestorm before the heavy aerospace and dropship assets of the Rim Collection finally force the battered warship to withdraw from the system and allowing the Rim Collection’s Thirty-second Rim Lancers, Fourth Rim Assault, Fourth Rim Rangers, Tenth Rim Militia, and Second Rim Hussars to land on the planet. In a grueling battle that lasts for most of the month, Archonette Kathy Parks leads the newly activated Stolz Regiment, Fourth Schnelle Kraft, and Second Buena Guards in a spirited defence of the world. Her death during the fighting eventually forced the Lyrans off world, with the survivors rolled into the Second Buena Guards LCT. Mandrill losses are equally severe, with the destruction of the Thirty-second Rim Lancers, Fourth Rim Rangers, and Tenth Rim Militia Clusters. Survivors are absorbed into the remaining two clusters. Like Florida the resistance movements on New India and popular unrest will continue to take up Mandrill resources for months.
Outside the focal area, the Collection’s strike at Kaumberg, Alekseyvka, and Etiler; the former the theatre capital and the latter two home of other primary militia regimental combat teams within the theatre. At Kaumberg, the recent arrival of the Eleventh Commonwealth Guards RCT, together with the Kaumberg Militia and the First Fesnyng, fight a concentrated and protracted defensive campaign against the Rim Collection’s Smoke Keshik, First Rim Battle, Twenty-first Rim Battle, First Rim Rangers, Four-hundred-and-seventeenth Rim Sentinels, and First and Seventh Rim Militia Clusters. Both sides take heavy casualties and neither are able to gain the advantage.
At Alekseyvka, the Sixth Rim Guards and Twelfth Rim Lancers Clusters quickly destroy the defending Alekseyvka Militia and Third Fesnyng due to the festivities. By the end of the month, however, it becomes clear survivors have already begun an effective guerrilla campaign, intent on making the Collection’s lives miserable as they begin a scorched earth campaign to destroy anything remotely useful to the Lyran military. The Rim Collection forces withdraw from the system at the end of the month having caused enough damage to the world to use up a disproportionate amount of resources compared to the wealth of the world.
At Etiler, the Lyran’ Third Triumvirate LCT fights off a raid in force by the Nineteenth Striker and newly formed Fourth Rim Lancers Clusters, but not before the Rim Collection forces destroy the vitally important weapons and supply deport on the world.
At the close of the month, with these victories, President Redburn announces the reformation of the Rim Collection and Clan Fire Mandrill into the Mandrill Collective while he remains in charge of the nation there is little question about the Fire Mandrill influence on the nation. The Lyrans take stock of their losses and begin to form a counter force together with SLDF forces. Altogether, the Lyrans have lost all ten focal targets and Kaumberg is in danger of capture.
High Council Chambers
Isle of Albion, New Avalon
Crucis March, Federated Suns
10th January 3118
In the carnivorous and tradition chambers of the High Council of New Avalon, and the Federated Suns, House Leader Imarra Sortek stood ready to address the formation. “Lords and Ladies of New Avalon, I am House Leader Imarra Sortek the leader of Warrior House Sortek. Three years ago, my people were brought to the Federated Suns by a freak accident from another universe, from another nation, with no way back we have dedicated our lives to this nation.” She said speaking clearly, she had chosen to wear a standard AFFS uniform with no decorations but the insignia of Warrior House Sortek on the left breast the insignia was similar to the emblem of House Sortek which featured an artist’s impression of the Crossroads Prairie on New Avalon where the house had gained its first Barony. Warrior House Sortek added a pair of crossed swords behind the image all set upon a shield, they had chosen to keep the insignia removing only the gold colouring of the Capellan state on the swords since coming to the Federated Suns. “Our Warrior House stands guarding the world of Marduk, where we have built a home, the good grace of House Davion and this Council gifted a portion of this world to my people giving us a permanent home and giving you a force of warriors who were fanatically prepared to defend it. An arrangement I think everyone here is happy with?” She asked leaving the question in the air.
No-one immediately spoke so Imarra Sortek continued “I thought so.” She answered her own question “Warrior House Imarra finds this arrangement agreeable and will continue to guard the Draconis Combine border, but we will not continue as Warrior House Sortek.” She said “the title Warrior House brings an image which is not popular in this realm, but we will not give up our name.” She said “instead we will adopt a name more closely related to our current home and become the Order of Sortek.” She said announcing the change as she spoke, she saw members of the Sortek family who looked uncomfortable by her announcement but she had felt it was important for the leadership of the Federated Suns to know about these changes and raise the profile of her people. The Order of Sortek defended a world on the border of a large enemy state, they needed all the support they could gather. The unit was supported by a Household Guard which while not directly attached to the Order’s forces when deployed did regularly exercise with the both the Order’s forces and the planetary militia. Imarra Sortek’s desire was to see the Household Guard merged with the Order’s forces but they needed time and training before they were ready for that leap and her warriors needed time to accept them as equals.
Raid
Kassandra’s Memory, Magistracy of Canopus
Periphery
21st January 3118
A particle cannons slammed into Schuyler McCoy’s Archer shattering armour plate McCoy twisted the Archer’s torso to track the enemy Ebony BattleMech ran past. The Malcontents had been attacked, well after they had begun raiding Kassandra’s Memory, the group of Ebony BattleMechs had engaged them and already knocked down two of the Malcontents’ BattleMechs. The stealth armour made the Ebony’s hard to track but so far, he had tracked down eight of the enemy Mechs who were harassing them while missile equipped armour peppered their position.
“We need to break out of this before we take some serious damage!” He called out “everyone wheel to the right and pull.” He ordered to his left Tom Ayrton twisted his Highlander and began to move right, Schuyler pivoted his Mech and tried to follow the heavier Highlander. Behind him Amanda Cavalcanti’s Cataphract but it didn’t complete the move as two snub-nosed particle cannons targeted the Heavy Mech’s left leg blowing out the knee actuator. The seventy-ton BattleMech stumbled and fell with a crash.
“Frack!” She called out stumbling about trying to get the Mech back up before she could missiles slammed into its back and two more particle cannons quickly followed “Gyros hit, this thing is toast.”
“Jack, get one of your tanks in here we need an extraction!” He called out as more missiles slammed into Amanda’s downed BattleMech.
“Negative, negative, don’t do it we’re already taking losses pull the hell out!” She called out as Schuyler brought the Hatchet down on one of the Ebony BattleMechs tearing it in half the hatchet tore down through the shoulder tearing off the arm, down through the torso and in one strike tore off the leg too. “I can’t make it, get out of here!”
“Not a chance in hell!” He said opening fire with the Archer’s short-range missiles peppering another of the Ebonys crippling the twenty-five-ton BattleMech. “We can hold!”
“Not long enough!” She replied as an autocannon barrage tore across the side of the Archer one of them striking the cockpit. “Get out of here!” She pleaded with him as particle cannon fire tore across Ayrton’s Highlander.
“We’re coming back!”
“Just go” she said as the enemy units were closing in, the Malcontents had taken eight Mechs and four Prime Movers to the planet but they had now lost three of their Mechs and the MechWarriors.
“Move towards the DropShip, fall back!” He called out seeing an entire company of armour moving in to support the remaining BattleMechs and an additional lance of Heavy Mechs also appearing in the distance. “Disappear before they have a chance to track us.” He said glancing at the downed Cataphract seeing it laying immobile as two tanks approached it. “We’re coming back, I love you.” He said continuing to fall back blasting at the enemy Mechs with his particle cannon, Tom Ayrton continued to fire his BattleMech’s gauss rifle as the unit fell back into the woods.
Two hours later after a game of cat and mouse the DropShip blasted off the surface of the planet with the Malcontents BattleMechs onboard but it had left behind Schyler McCoy and several of his MechWarriors who planned on rescuing Amanda Cavalcanti and any of the other MechWarriors who had fallen and survived.
Trials of Possession
Crucis March, Federated Suns
25th January 3118
In the continuing tit-for-tat Trials of Possession being waged between Clan Nova Cat and the Federated Suns Clan Nova Cat seize possession of Symsonia in the Minnette PDZ of the Crucis March. During the Trial Clan Nova Cat debut their newest OmniMech the Shadow Cat III. This new OmniMech based on the original OmniMech features an updated chassis and configurations using the newest technology, the Mech’s fixed jump jets have also been removed and replaced with pod mountable variants. The new design takes the defenders by surprise.
In retaliation for the continued Nova Cat trials but the strong defence around the so-called Crofton Occupation Zone, which was the name the Federated Suns had given the region of worlds the Nova Cats had taken from the Federated Suns in recent Trials of Possession, had made the Federated Suns look elsewhere to try and curtail the Clan’s ambitions. As a result, the Federated Suns target the far side of the Nova Cat’s Den in a series of attacks which sees Gebo, Ivaldi, Mersey and Laskarid all taken by the Federated Suns in rapid Trials of Possession.
The leadership of the Federated Suns believe that these victories will control the Nova Cats ambitions and make them draw back due to the fear of total war but they actually do the opposite. The actions of the succession state towards the Clan show them that the Federated Suns not only respects the Trials of Possession but they are supporting the Nova Cat’s continued Trials as the two cultures take completely different approaches to combat and territorial changes. Even after almost seventy years of co-existence the Inner Sphere and Clans continued to have stark ideological differences.
Liberation
Kaumberg, Kaumberg Theatre
Alarion Province, Lyran Commonwealth
28th January 3118
The retreat from Kaumberg was in full swing as Rim Collective forces streamed from the surface heading for JumpShips which waited at a pirate point. The retreat wasn’t being completely uncontested as aerospace fighters from Kaumberg harried them at every turn but the fighters were not what was concerning for the periphery nation’s forces as two Lyran Commonwealth WarShips were bearing down on their position. With an invasion force in retreat conventional wisdom would have been to allow the Rim Collective’s forces to retreat but the Lyrans had no intention of allowing them to leave without a fight and they had taken the typical Lyran approach to an issue. Charging at their fastest acceleration rate the LCS Peter Steiner-Davion, an Indefatigable-class Battleship, and the LCS Błyskawica, a Nightlord-class Battleship, surrounded by dozens of assault DropShips and aerospace fighters were approaching. These two ships were the heaviest in the Lyran Navy and were akin to taking a hammer to crack an egg.
The Rim Collective vessel RCS Rim Collection, one of their newest Warrior-class Battle-cruisers, broke from the retreating formation first arcing to port as the two Lyran WarShips approached to weapons range. The ship’s manoeuvre allowed the nine hundred-and-twenty thousand tonne WarShip to engage the incoming Lyran vessels with its broadside weapons array of Naval autocannons, missiles and lasers. The weapons were concentrated on the closer LCS Peter Steiner-Davion but the 1.8 million tonne Battleship’s heavy armour was far too thick for the ship to be concerned with a single volley from the heavier of the two Rim Collective vessels.
The Lyran return volley was devastating naval grade heavy particle cannons, lasers and gauss rifles fired by both pursuing vessels the initial gauss rifle slots slammed into the front port side of the Battle-cruiser shattering armour and a weapon’s position but not penetrating the armour. Moments later the particle cannons followed burning down the side of the ship hitting multiple parts of the ship causing more damage. While the naval particle cannons speared into the middle of the ship penetrating the armour there causing internal damage.
The damage caused against the Warrior caused the Battle-cruiser to list slightly indicating that a control thruster had been hit but that didn’t stop the ship returning fire on the two closing WarShips causing more damage to the Peter Steiner-Davion but still failing to penetrate the armour. The two Lyran WarShips split their approach with the Warrior damaged and clearly having issues manoeuvring the Peter Steiner-Davion moved under the Błyskawica turning to port as it moved to match the Warrior’s course while the Nightlord-class Blyskawica charged forwards still driving on the retreating Rim Collection forces.
Because they had split up the Rim Collective’s Warrior-class Battle-cruiser was bracketed by the two ships while the vessel tried to defend itself firing another broadside of weapons into the broadside of the Peter Steiner-Davion the Indefatigable-class Battleship returned in kind engaging with a full broadside of its own penetrating the ship’s armour in several place. At the same time the Blyskawica opened fire on the rear of the ship all but obliterating the vessels engine array. The ruined hulk of a WarShip continued on its course now unable to manoeuvre and with multiple compartments open to space or filled with internal fires.
With the Battle-cruiser disabled the Blyskawica continued to charge forwards in pursuit of the Rim Collective force intent on wiping out the invasion force. Ahead of the Nightlord the second WarShip which had been escorting the Rim Collective force the RCS Firestorm, a York-class Destroyer/Carrier, turned to engage the Nightlord along with its aerospace fighters. The Firestorm had one chance of stopping the Blyskawica and the captain took that option setting a collision course with the larger vessel. The captain of the Blyskawica wasn’t ready to commit suicide and continue on a collision course and instead turned to starboard exposing its broadside to the incoming Rim Collective WarShip. Opening fire, the weapons of the Nightlord sliced through the Firestorm shredding its lighter armour with enough firepower to destroy a WarShip twice its size. Some of the firepower tore several aerospace fighters from the same area while the Lyran aerospace fighters engaged the rest. The Firestorm’s actions caused no damage to a single Lyran asset but they accomplished their mission forcing the Blyskawica to change course which had delayed its attack on the Rim Collective’s retreating forces allowing the DropShips to reach their JumpShips and escape the system.
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While the WarShips fought in space around Kaumberg troop DropShips landed on the planet to ensure that the Rim Collective’s forces had retreated from the planet. While the LCAF reinforcements spread across the planet’s island chains a heavily armed convoy moved into the capital city Stuttgart heading to the seat of power on the planet the House of Lords. Once there with the colony surrounded by Battle Armoured troopers made up of both the Lyran Royal Guards and the Royal Black Watch of the Star League Defence Force Lyran Archon, and current First Lord, Jessica Steiner headed into the building.
Inside the House of Lords was a beautiful architecturally Germanic-styled building which had been built soon after the planet’s colonisation centuries before. Inside Archonette Erich Sheridan stood waiting for her. Erich Sheridan was approaching one hundred years old but he appeared to be quite healthy his full head of hair was entirely grey now having lost its dark colour, only his goatee maintained a hint of colour. He wore a dark business suite which had been made along military lines “Archon, welcome home” he said greeting her referencing the Barony which the world had gifted to House Steiner when the world was colonized. “I could have come to your residence.” He offered House Steiner maintained a home on the world which was kept in pristine condition despite its rare usage.
“I wanted to speak to you quickly and ensure the situation on Kaumberg got my immediate attention. What is the situation?”
“Archon, my forces held them at bay until your forces entered the system. When it was clear that you had a superior force, they began to withdraw, my people did not have the firepower to counter them.” He said glancing over the Archon’s shoulder as another woman in LCAF uniform Erich Sheridan immediately recognised her “General Varnay” he said welcoming Kelly Varnay to the conversation. While she had been born to the line that betrayed House Davion and tried to eliminate it from the Federated Suns Kelly Varnay had proven over the last decade and a half of service, she was loyal to House Steiner.
“Archonette Varnay” Archon Jessica Steiner said correcting him slightly
“Congratulations” he said seeing Kelly’s face twist slightly “maybe?”
“I’m an officer not a politician” she grumbled; she hadn’t wanted the position but Archon Steiner believed in the idea.
“You can be so more” the Archon said to the other woman, Erich Sheridan watched quietly as the discussion played out Kelly Varnay was ten years older than the Archon but it was clear who was in command.
“Archon, I think this is an inspired choice General… pardon me, Archonette Varnay’s Fesnyng and Schnelle forces have revolutionised our defences along the periphery border. Her vision goes to further reinforce ideas do not always have to come from up high to succeed. Of course, we need Tharkad’s support and the support of the Navy but Skye has proven that an autonomous region can succeed against the enemies that threaten out realm while we remain loyal to House Steiner.”
“The Triad and nobility on Tharkad and Carlisle do not agree” Archon Steiner said “despite Skye’s successes and the lack of rebellions in recent years they believe we are welcoming the balkanisation of the Lyran nation.” She continued raising her hand to silent his protests “I have decided to continue the experiment, with one simple caveat which I want you to both understand.” She said glancing between them “should Kaumberg or Buena feel the need to go it alone and break with the covenant we will make here I will bring destruction down on your heads that you have never experienced. The Lyran people stand together or they do not stand.”
“I understand Archon” Kelly Varnay said immediately she had been tasked with sorting out Buena and revolutionising the fighting forces in that Theatre while Sheridan would be left to continue to defend Kaumberg. She already wanted to expand the Fesnyng and Schnelle forces debuted in the Kaumberg Theatre to Buena intent on making the defenders robust and mobile.
“Of course, Archon Steiner, we will serve you as all other Province lords do in the service of House Steiner.” He said immediately showing where he believed the Archonette model should stand on a level par with the Provincial leaders on Alarion, Skye and Halfway. “We will turn back the aggressors on our borders.”
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Infiltration
Forward Operating Base
Kassandra’s Memory, Magistracy of Canopus
1st February 3118
It had taken Schuyler McCoy and his dismounted MechWarriors four days to walk to the forward operating base occupied by Magistracy of Canopus troops that they believed to be holding the three lost Malcontents MechWarriors. None of the four MechWarriors were commandos but they had camouflage gear and rifles taken from their Mechs before they abandoned them. Kassandra’s Memory was a warm world with long days and a lack of weather but there was plenty of shrubs for them to use as concealment. McCoy had deployed them around the facility and they’d spent most of the last week watching the temporary base and the movement of the troops now they were back together.
“What have we seen?”
“They are packing up the eastern flank, they must not be expecting anyone to cause trouble as they’ve taken apart some of the fortifications the troops are down to their hand weapons. There is still a lot more of them than us boss, it’s easier without the fixed weapons but a frontal assault is still out of the question.”
“Agreed, thanks Tom” he said the other MechWarrior was nearly ten years older than Schuyler, and would be fifty next year but thanks to modern medicine he was barely showing it only with some grey on the hairs on the side of his dead, they had known each other for years and Schuyler considered him to be his right hand in most matters.
“They are trying to repair the Cataphract” Faris Scherwiz naming Amanda Cavalcanti’s BattleMech “you can see it from the western side they have it standing in a temporary repair harness.”
“While it would be nice to salvage it, I wouldn’t call it a priority. Have they moved it?”
“Not on its own” Faris confirmed “they lifted it with cranes.”
“Which brings us to what I saw” Derek Lenihan said, “Schuyler these guys have Ebony BattleMechs and the patches that suggest they are Ebon Magistrate forces but I’m not sure if they are.” He suggested he was the youngest of the group just a couple of years short of his fortieth birthday but he’d seen plenty combat so they all listened “I saw some of their training drills in the court yard and runs, their sergeant was a lot harsher than you’d expect with an elite unit. He had them running full drills around the whole facility perimeter with their full kit in the blazing sun.”
“Play hard, fight easy” Tom Ayrton suggested “they have the equipment that suggests they are, but maybe this is a training mission or some sort of graduation mission. Giving them some practical experience.”
“Why would you take new recruits into an elite unit, that doesn’t make sense” Schuyler McCoy noted “maybe they were sent here to the back of nowhere to fly the flag keep the locals in check? These guys are training but whomever sent them didn’t want anyone interfering? So, they dressed them up as special forces”
“They did a good job if that’s the case those Ebonys are front line BattleMechs.”
“Indeed, so what do they have? We know they started with eight Ebony BattleMechs, a minimum of a dozen vehicles and a heavier lance but I’ve saw the heavier lance leave yesterday and it hasn’t returned and the at least half of the vehicles are gone.”
“I think we’re down to five combat vehicles one of them is an APC, the others are support Mechs. We destroyed five of the Ebonys all three that remained have been under repair for the last few days, they are probably functional or close to it.”
“There’s a minimum of three guards at the guard posts I’ve seen, sometimes as many as six during a shift change over” the others nodded suggesting they had seen something similar.” That suggests to me that they’ve got a minimum of twenty-four infantry troopers and an upwards figure of ninety-six.” Tom Ayrton suggested twenty-four would give them a two-shift rotation, the upper figure would give them a four-shift rotation.
“I think it’s only two shifts” Faris said seeing the looks from the other three “a girl notices when the same guys are in a post, they have the same habits.”
“It would go with only one APC and the deconstruction work; they must be preparing to move out.” Derek noted “if they move out, we can’t take on the mobilized convoy.”
“No, I agree, we are running out of time” Schuyler agreed “we need to hit them in the next day or two. Any sightings of our people?”
“I saw Amanda yesterday walking in circles in the exercise yard. She didn’t look badly beat up and they at least clothed her.” Faris said “when she was finished, she was taken to the south side into that complex of tents and fortifications that are there.”
“We can’t take them on just the four of us, a direct assault we won’t have a chance, even having an idea where our people are.” Tom Ayrton cautioned
“We’re not going to hit them directly.” Schuyler said “we’re going to use their work against them.” He said “I’ve seen vehicles arrive the last few days Prime Movers and other support vehicles some of them taken in equipment. They are probably here to help with the removal of the base.” He said “tomorrow we’re going to walk off the road and watch for the next group to come through, we’ll find a choke point and ambush one of the vehicles then use that to get in.” he suggested “once inside I’m going to go for the Cataphract. My codes and patterns should still be stored in its memory bank, if they’ve cleared it, I’ll use the back-up code. You three will find our people and get back to the vehicle. Then when the time is right, I’ll surprise them, if I can take out the remaining Ebonys then you may all have a chance of escape.”
“If you can’t we’re all dead”
“No pressure, thanks Tom, I’ll do what’s needed.”
---
The four of them walked nearly four kilometres from the base following the roads finding a crossroads with a fuel station and shop. There were a few civilian vehicles parked not knowing where the vehicles would turn at the crossroads, they had no choice but to wait. They didn’t need to wait long within an hour two Prime Movers had arrived and the four crewmen filled their vehicles with fuel and used the facilities at the civilian shop. This far into the periphery there was little observance of protocol. “If they want to break the rules we may as well male them pay for it.” Schuyler said “we don’t kill anyone unless we have to.”
Moving quickly down towards shop Schuyler pointed at the two vehicles “Faris, Tom secure those vehicles. Derek with me, quick and quiet!” He called out the two of them half fast walked half ran towards the shop. The shop was like a thousand others which had been seen for over a century in human existence on hundreds of worlds it was filled with fast foods and other convenience goods which travelers would buy. Schuyler looked down one of the two aisles and saw two of the troopers hunched over a machine playing some form of two-dimensional game, Schuyler raised two fingers towards Derek who nodded and stepped past walking past the counter where a dark-skinned middle-aged man dressed in a white t-shirt and well-worn jeans stood looking nervous. Derek looked at him as he passed and shook his head then glanced at Schuyler and raised two fingers of his own indicating he’d seen the other two. In the end aisle stood the final two guards who were huddled over looking at some pornographic magazines laughing despite all of the advances that humanity had made, and all the light years they had traveled some impulses never died. Schuyler and Derek looked at each other one more time and raised their weapons.
“Hands in the air!” Both shouted advancing on the two men their rifles pointed at them “do nothing and you don’t die today.” The four men had no choice and raised their arms away from their weapons.
---
An hour later they were back on the road again the shop owner had been convinced to lock the four ambushed troopers in his basement minus their uniforms. Schuyler and Derek had put on a show for the shop owner by aiming their weapons at him making it look like they’d forced him to contain the four men.
The two Prime Movers were allowed into the fire base with the Malcontents troops showing their papers at the gate the guards waving them through and directing them to a corner lot of the base. Immediately the base inhabitants began to load the two vehicles “we’re not going to have a lot of time, let’s get some equipment make it like we’re helping out then quietly disappear.” He ordered his three lance mates they moved and gathered some equipment helping the base staff load equipment onto the Prime Mover as they did the others returned for more equipment instead of gathering more equipment, they disappeared into the tent city which made up quarters for most of the base personnel.
Schuyler McCoy headed off to the right of the others cutting between the tents until he could see the maintenance cradles for the Cataphract and the four remaining Ebony BattleMechs, it appeared the salvage crew had been able to repair one of the Mechs damaged during the battle with the Malcontents. While it still had some armour damage the Cataphract looked mostly operational, he hoped it wasn’t just for show. McCoy wore a Magistracy uniform and decided to try and make it look like he belonged slinging the rifle over his shoulder he walked over to a Tech’s table and glanced over some of the paperwork and notes left, from what he could make out basic repairs to the gyro had been completed and it was ready for a test run.
“Who are you? What are you doing here?” someone asked off to his right-hand side Schuyler knew that his disguise would only pass so far and decided to take no chances spinning on the spot he brought the laser rifle down off his shoulder and pulled the trigger. The laser blast caught the older man, who was likely one of the leading techs on the Mech in the chest and he went down in a heap. Schuyler looked at the man for a moment then snapped out of it and reached for his radio on his belt clicking the transmit button three times to inform the others he’d made contact with the enemy. He then grabbed the tech and dragged him under the tech table placing boxes in front of the body to conceal it, beside the Mech cradle he found a coolant vest and pulled it on over his coveralls before beginning his climb up the Mech. He found the Cataphract’s cockpit was open and climbed onboard the seventy-ton BattleMech it was almost exactly like the last time he had been inside the Mech he reached behind the main computer screen and flicked a few of the controls there hoping the Canopian techs hadn’t questioned their purpose. He then reached up and to the side finding Amanda’s neuralhelmet pulling it down over his head he smelled sweat but also her scent. As reached over and began to bring the Mech online, as he did, he connected the coolant vest to the Mech’s systems the vest would keep him alive if the Mech got into a fight.
“Schuyler… the movers are gone we’re coming to you” Amanda’s voice crackled over the communication frequencies.
For a moment he was stunned she was alive, let alone on the radio “Amanda what do you mean?”
“The Prime Movers pulled out; another crew must be driving them in tandem with the one we replaced. We’re coming to you cover the Mechs.”
“The Mechs… oh frack!” Schuyler cursed he glanced at the BattleMech’s computer and noticed that the fiddling he’d done with the computer had swapped it over to his patterns and the neuralhelmet had recognised him. While the Cataphract was battlefield salvage like all of the Malcontents Mechs it technically belonged to Schuyler McCoy and so he had the techs load his neural patterns on to its systems. Normally they’d sit in the background and make no difference but today he needed the controls. “Time to cause some noise” he said grabbing the controls forcing the Cataphract into action.
The seventy-ton BattleMech stepped forwards its arms flailing out smashing the maintenance cradle to pieces in one move. He then lined up the torso mounted autocannon and fired a salvo of LB-X Cluster munitions straight into a communications dish shattering it blowing it into hundreds of pieces. He twisted the torso and fired a particle projection cannon shot into a parked LRM carrier blowing the lightly armoured support vehicle to pieces.
Small arms fire exploded all over the vehicle with the occasional high explosive shot grenade launcher or short-range missile added into the mix for a fully operational heavy Mech they were of little threat but with the damage the Cataphract had already taken Schuyler didn’t know how much more it could take. “Status!” he called into his handheld radio not trusting the inbuilt radio on the Cataphract.
“We’re boarding the Mechs we’ve got a group of infantry closing from the east, we could use some cover!” Derek called out twisting the Cataphract’s torso Schuyler laid down a volley of fire from all four of the medium pulse lasers breaking up the infantry formation. He side-stepped the Mech to the right and laid down some more fire cutting down dozens of troopers’ missiles and small arms fire continued to hit the Mech then a flight of long-range missiles slammed into the Mech from another vehicle one of the crews had somehow got online. Schuyler hit the vehicle with an autocannon round but didn’t disable the vehicle which began to move launching more missiles. More than half of the missiles missed their target but nearly a dozen still slammed into the Cataphract.
“I can’t take much more of this… guys” he said firing the particle cannon at the active vehicle missing his shot completely. Moments later another particle cannon shot fired this time from one of the Ebony BattleMechs.
“I can’t believe we’re doing this!” Tom Ayrton shouted as the twenty-five-ton BattleMech ran into combat its particle cannon blazing at the missile carrier. The fast-moving Mech was too quick to be targeted by the tank and as he ran behind it firing the particle cannon shot into the tanks back before following it up with a kick against one of the vehicle’s tracks disabling it. The turret began to track but Schuyler finished off its fight with another autocannon salvo. “We must be the only ones who can turn a jail break into a heist, what the hell were we thinking.”
“No idea” Schuyler said twisting his Mech around cutting down more infantry with the pulse lasers as he saw another of the Ebony Mechs come online. None of them had anti-infantry weapons but their size alone was intimidating to most MechWarriors. A third Ebony stepped forward.
“I’ve just about got this thing going…” Derek Lenihan said before Amanda broke in.
“Derek on your back!” She shouted into the radio but it was too late suddenly there was a large explosion from the back of the Ebony. The explosion exploded forwards breaching the cockpit’s armoured doors and blowing through the front of the light BattleMech instantly killing Lenihan, there was no point even calling to him as the headless BattleMech fell forwards to the ground. “Oh my god…”
“There’s nothing we can do, let’s get out of here before they get anything else going, cut to the east as soon as we leave the base we don’t stop until sundown.” Schuyler ordered looking at the downed BattleMech one more time “sorry Derek” he whispered as the four operational Ebony BattleMechs ran clear of the base all four stopped outside the base and turned firing their particle cannons into the base covering Schuyler’s retreat flattening many of the remaining structures.
All five BattleMechs then ran for their lives in silence both because of the shock at Derek’s death and to keep their radio traffic to a minimum hoping that would make them harder to detect, the four Ebonys had stealth armour but the Cataphract would stand out if a powerful enough sensor suite was turned towards it. They ran throughout the day secreting themselves in a cave where they could rest and gather their thoughts after the events of the day. Schuyler discovered that Amanda had been the only survivor with both of his other MechWarriors killed in the initial battle and now Derek was dead as well. It appeared that every effort he made to defend Whittington either ended up with his people being killed at home or away. The group stayed hidden for nearly a week on Kassandra’s Memory hiding from the Magistracy of Canopus troops before finally escaping from the world heading for home their newly captured BattleMechs in all.
Clan conflict
District of Regulus, Free Worlds League
9th February 3118
While there was little evidence solid proof to show that the Clans were coordinating their activities by agreement there was little question when it came to their actions. While the Wolves were struggling to make an impact on the Star League Protectorate the current change in targets had taken the Free Worlds League by surprise and within days Ariel, Asellus Australis, Asellus Borealis, Gallatin and Autumn Wind had all fallen to a series of lightning assaults by Assault Clusters as the Wolves attempted to isolate Marik and the systems near it.
For years the Clan border had felt so far away for so long but today they had arrived on the world of Sophie’s World. Now sitting in the cockpit of his ZU-G60 Anzu BattleMech twenty-one-year-old Caden Cameron-Jones waited nervously as the Wolves approached. The Anzu’s sensors pinged moments later “here they come!” He called out stepping the sixty-ton BattleMech forwards. “Give them hell!” He said pulling the trigger for the long-range missile launcher and particle cannon sending ten missiles and a particle beam towards the enemy a Clan Wolf Thirty-fourth Champions Cluster Linebacker OmniMech. Less than half of the LRMs hit the sixty-five-ton Linebacker while the particle cannon missed the hunched over OmniMech completely.
On the torso of the OmniMech a hatch opened and five long range missiles fired in return towards the Anzu while both arms fired lightning bolts at the BattleMech. The particle cannons were about three times as devastating as the one the Anzu carried and they fired at greater range. Fortunately for Caden Cameron-Jones only one of the particle cannons struck catching the Anzu high in the chest while the other fizzled out overhead, the five missiles fired by the Linebacker missed completely tearing up the ground beside the BattleMech.
Caden launched his forwards into a run launching more missiles and another particle cannon shot at the Linebacker, the Clan Mech dodged out of the way of the particle cannon shot while the missiles caused minimal damage. Caden had prepared for the dodge however and the Linebacker dodged straight into an autocannon volley which walked its way across the heavy OmniMech’s torso. Missiles and more particle cannon shots returned fire against the Anzu both slammed into the Anzu high on the torso the first vaporising armour there the second came in even higher slamming into the charging Anzu’s cockpit.
The impact of the oversized extended range particle cannon against the Anzu’s cockpit was devastating, the armour there was melted away in seconds while the combined kinetic force and heat of the man-made lightning cannon burned though the cockpit behind it seconds later killing Caden Cameron-Jones instantly. The command less Anzu staggered forwards before falling half burying itself in the light sand of Sophie’s World’s surface. Duke Caden Cameron-Jones was the first person to die on the world but he wasn’t the last for hours the Wolves and Regulan troops engaged each other before finally the Free Worlds League troops gained the upper hand driving the Clansmen from the world but the damage was done and the heir to the District of Regulus was dead.
Aftermath, Andrea Moreira Firebase
Tarncredi IV, Tarncredi IV PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
11th February 3118
In the history of Tarncredi IV Andrea Moreira was a name as well known as the planetary dukes during the Davion Civil War Moreira had been a minor noble woman who had taken up arms to join Alexander Davion’s forces and fought in the final battles for control over Tarncredi IV and to end the Civil War. The firebase occupied by the victors of the most recent battle were a command which while in the service of House Davion were currently working without command authority Leftenant Laure Bieganski of the Order of Sortek had come to Tarncredi IV to assist in the defence of the system fighting against a Clan Snow Raven raid.
Now she and the two MechWarriors of the lance were repairing their three BattleMechs. Unfortunately, MechWarrior Jochen Stuppacher had been killed in the fighting and his Catapult BattleMech was nothing but a wreck. As thanks for their assistance in the Trial the commander of the First Dragonlords Regiment had authorised the surviving MechWarriors to each select a single piece of Clan built salvage from the battlefield so each of them was fitting these weapons into their BattleMechs. Laure’s Enforcer III’s Extended-Range Large Laser had been replaced with a Clan made model with an additional Extended Range Medium Laser mounted beside it increasing the Mech’s hitting power.
Standing away from the lance’s Cuirass Laure Bieganski watched as the Mech’s pilot and a tech continued work to replace the torso mounted laser system with a salvaged laser when she became aware of two people approaching her from the right. Laure was forty-two years old and had served with Warrior House Sortek for twenty-four years and had remained with the House when it had come to this universe thirteen years before she still believed in the warrior-monk ideals of the Warrior Houses she had learned in the Confederated Suns which was why Grandmaster of the Order Imarra Sortek had deployed her with this lance to screen recruits before they arrived on Murduk. As she turned her hand drifted to the sabre which hung from her belt out of habit rather than the threat.
“Leftenant, I am Scott Kelly and this is Charlie Johnston we both served with the Dragonlords but have been given permission by our Colonel to speak with you. We wish to apply to join the Order of Sortek.”
“You have jobs in the service of House Davion, why would you want to transfer to another command?”
“We wish to serve the whole of House Davion, your mission will take you across the Federated Suns. We wish to train with the best and progress our careers. Neither of us could afford to go to one of this nation’s prestigious schools we have learned on the job throughout, we wish to bring that to your command.” Charlie Johnston explained.
“You do know that once our mission is completed, we will be heading back to Murduk and we’ll primarily serve as the defence of that world.”
“Yes, but we’ll learn from the best warriors on the Draconis March and join something bigger than us.”
“I will speak with your Colonel and confirm your attachment to my lance, neither of you will immediately serve as a MechWarrior you will go back to being apprentices that is understood?” She asked both nodded “assuming your transfer is confirmed I will assign you to one of my MechWarriors and your training will begin. You will be tested on academic study, BattleMech piloting, gunnery and maintenance. You need to understand this will be a lot of work.” Both nodded their acceptance of the terms within hours Laure had spoken to the Dragonlords Colonel who explained that while he’d have liked to keep the two MechWarriors both had lost their Mechs fighting the Ravens and he had no other BattleMechs available at present so he was ready to dispossess them as he had no means of transferring them to another unit. Both MechWarriors were capable if not stellar Laure hoped that with training the two would become productive members of the Order of Sortek, if not they would be cut.
Meanwhile the Snow Ravens border raids had been cut short by a Draconis Combine offensive at the far side of the Raven Alliance. In a coordinated offensive launched with WarShip support the entire Ryuken Brigade of regiments invaded the systems of Tabayama, Suianeer and Kazanka with two regiments hitting each of the systems capturing all three within hours from the Ravens driving back their forces.
Ruling Council Meeting
Jetheitania, Zeta Atheni
Zeta Quadrant, Periphery
28th February 3118
It was a wet day on Zeta Atheni and the capitol city Jetheitania was suffering from minor flooding as the planet’s primitive drainage system was struggling with the rain. This hadn’t stopped the Ruling Council from meeting in their chambers on the outskirts of the city. The design of Jetheitania City was that the Ruling Council Chambers were located out with the city so not to distract the people from their daily lives. At this session while the flooding had come up more important was the issue on Zeta Minoris where a viral respiratory disease was passing quickly and according to recent reports had spread to Zeta Parada. The Speaker for Zeta Minoris Rachal Marchand was speaking she was in her thirties and young to represent a world but was dressed impeccably in a navy-blue business suit. “Ladies and gentlemen, it is important that medicines arrive as quickly as possible to Zeta Minoris, already the death toll on my world is in the hundreds. In weeks it will be in the thousands. And now according to reports a similar or the same virus is passing quickly on Zeta Parada. We need help.”
“Yes, so do the people of Zeta Parada” Romy Monteiro said standing for her world while Rachal Marchand was young for her world Speaker Romy Monteiro was on the other end of the spectrum and was in her seventies wearing a red velvet dress with frills around the shoulders, it was like something some people would wear to a formal dance. “While Zeta Minoris is already showing hundreds of cases and by the figures, they are presenting suggests community transmission has begun, our world’s still at single case transmission we could stop it quickly if we get the medicines we need.” She suggested “my planetary council have initiated a social lockdown and are trying to limit community transmission.”
“There is a DropShip at present taking commercial JumpShip to Buena to purchase medicines from the Lyran Commonwealth.” Council Leader Ingvar Lofgren the leader of the council said. The male was in his fifties with a full head of grey hair a black business suit, white shirt and green tie. “We will buy enough to inoculate all of Zeta Minoris, treat all of those on Zeta Parada and have enough to treat more on other worlds should we need it. Each world with infected cases should identify those who have this disease and isolate them to the best of their ability until the vaccines arrive from Buena.”
“And should this virus get out of control what will we do then?” Richard Madisha the representative of Zeta Shimae V asked his was the least populated and least capable of protecting its population. “Can I suggest to this council that the Mandrill Collective is closer than Buena…” he began like Rachal Marshand he was young and was willing to take risks the others began to try and drone him out. “May I suggest that the Mandrill Collective is closer than Buena and we should turn to them for help” he said continuing on “if this virus spreads to the Mandrill Collective, then they will have as much trouble as us, they do not need transmission on the scale of Zeta Minoris any more than we do.” He said “Ladies and gentlemen while I agree with this council’s previous judgement against approaching the Mandrills, or the lack of until now, but in this case, we may need it.”
“I strongly object to this course, the vaccines will arrive from Buena before it gets out of hand.” Lofgren said looking at the others “we have worked this out together up until now and will continue to.” He said Lofgren’s words swayed the council and kept a deal with the Mandrill’s off the table, at least for now.
After the meeting Lofgren retreated to his nearby office there a figure who wore a green pants suit sitting in a comfortable red chair. “I did what you wanted. Now what?” He said looking at the woman she was in her thirties she had brown bobbed hair, almost delicate features, beautiful red lips, piercing green eyes and with a green shirt of the same ton as her suit underneath.
“Now we wait until the other penny drops” the woman said “your DropShip will not be returning from Buena…”
“There are twenty-four of our people onboard that ship! The ship itself is worth a great deal to our nation!”
“The DropShip does not matter” she said quietly “as for your people I am sorry about them, but they are going to be the last that you need be worried about.” She said “the virus is going to get worse; it will spread quickly to all of the worlds of the Quadrant and the outer stagers of the Cirincus Federation, the Mandrill Collective and Buena Archonette of the Lyran Commonwealth.”
“Buena Archonette?” Lofgren repeated not being familiar with the name.
“It is a recent development internal to the Lyran Commonwealth it won’t affect your relationship with them in the slightest, the Lyrans will be scrambling about to counter the virus like you currently are.”
“Without that DropShip our nation will be on its knees without those vaccines!” Lofgren said recovering from what she was saying.
“Yes, it will” the woman said “your nation will suffer Council Leader Lofgren, they will need a strong leader and they will need someone willing to take chances to get you through the next few months. Someone willing to make a decision that will protect what is left of your nation and your future.” She said standing up “be strong, your nation will suffer but it will come through this stronger than ever and in a superior position. That is what you have been promised and that is what we will deliver.” She said leaving the room leaving Ingvar Lofgren alone with his thoughts. As promised news of the a JumpShip’s disappearance along with Zeta Quadrant’s DropShip filtered through to the nation in May with the virus spreading throughout the nation’s four worlds and slowly into nearby systems just as the figure had promised, the virus also began showing up on worlds nearby which have trade with the Zeta Quadrant in the Mandrill Collective, Buena Archonette and Cirincus Federation.
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Good update DC, keep up the writing!
TT
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Tarmac, Auxiliary Spaceport 3
Outpost Aberdeen, Castrovia
Sian Commonality, Capellan Confederation
3rd March 3118
Stepping clear of the Mule-class DropShip Rybicki onto a spaceport’s tarmac it was like the hundred other facilities that Baily Snow Raven had visited during her career first as a member of Clan Snow Raven, then as a mercenary and then as a freelance operator. There were utility vehicles moving around, fuel tanks and plenty of active machinery. Several BattleMechs were patrolling around the spaceport while two other DropShips were also landed at the spaceport.
She was thirty-four years old and had been born into Clan Snow Raven destined to become an Aerospace Fighter pilot, then as a ProtoMech pilot after aerospace training had not gone well. She had undergone the enhanced imaging treatment to pilot the ProtoMechs and had been assigned to a Centaur ProtoMech, unfortunately only a fortnight after her graduation as a pilot she was captured by a mercenary force. Soon after she and her two surviving point mates had served with the mercenary unit Krecji’s Squadron, a combined-arms battalion, unfortunately combat losses had resulted in both of her point mates being killed and she alone had survived. When Krecji’s Squadron had passed through Galatea Station she had broken from the unit and agreed a personal contract with the Capellan Confederation to help the Confederation with some development work. In exchange for Baily’s assistance and the Centaur ProtoMech the Capellan Confederation had paid a pretty sum to Krecji’s Squadron, enough to purchase a couple of light BattleMechs.
Now she had been transported to the world of Castrovia a jewel of a world in the heart of the Capellan Confederation. From what she had been told the Capellans had been researching ProtoMech technology for several years which had first begun on the dead world of Necromo. Looking around she saw that Castrovia was truly a beautiful world with idyllic green hills and trees surrounding the spaceport. Behind her a transporter vehicle left the DropShip carrying her Centaur ProtoMech which was laid on its back. In the air nearby there was a thundering sound as a four-rotor engine egg shaped VTOL appeared in the sky with several lifting wires dangling from underside. Baily watched as they hooked up the ProtoMech to the VTOL and it was lifted into the sky due to the aircraft’s engine nacelle configuration, two front and two rear, the cargo carried under the aircraft was perfectly balanced. Even as the VTOL and its Centaur cargo began to fly away a civilian vehicle pulled up beside the landing pad. An older woman with greying-brown hair, wearing a white jacket and navy skirt got out of the vehicle and approached her, she stood nearly a full head higher than Baily’s short frame.
“Good afternoon and welcome to Castrovia, I am Citizen Doctor Nadda Jerod the leading scientist on Project Aberdeen.” She said stopping short of Baily.
“Where is my Mech going?” She asked casting an eye on her ProtoMech again.
“To our facility, if you will come with me, we will take you there.” She said Baily nodded and followed her to the limousine. The vehicle drove along a short road before turning off the main road down a track until they reached a rock-face, it stopped briefly before the rock face swung open revealing an entrance and tunnel large enough for a vehicle two or three times larger than the limousine.
Deep inside the mountain face Baily and Citizen Doctor Nadda Jerod stepped out of the vehicle and entered a high military facility with a high ceiling. There were technicians moving around the facility. Jerod led Baily to an opening which overlooked a massive hanger on the deck there were hundreds of ProtoMechs in various states of completion. “What is this?” Baily wondered looking over the field.
“For decades we have had teams scouring battlefields recovering ProtoMechs and purchasing them from the Clans.” Jerod explained “we have been unable to utilise them on the battlefield as we lacked the knowledge that could be gained from a live ProtoMech pilot, until now.” She said looking at Baily “we want to know how your brain works dear.” As she spoke two guards closed from both sides and seized Baily’s arms “unfortunately, this may be a little uncomfortable.”
There was the sound of heavy metal foot prints as something else closed on them and suddenly a shirtless figure with the build of a Clan Elemental but with breathing vents built into and around his neck and metal back-canted faun legs approached. “Welcome to Outpost Aberdeen young warrior, I am Elika Laban and I will enjoy seeing your contribution to our project. Your contributions will not be forgotten.” The near nightmarish character said leaning towards her Baily was reminded of stories of the Word of Blake’s cybernetically enhanced Manei Domini looking at the creature and she wondered exactly what she had volunteered and gotten herself into.
Entrance Jump, Golden Archipelago (Monolith-class JumpShip)
Galatea, Galatea Station
Star League Protectorate
11th March 3118
The Monolith-class JumpShip Golden Archipelago jumped into the Galatea system and immediately launched a Mammoth-class DropShip, the Marion Fulton, which burned towards to Mercenary Review and Bonding Commission run Galatea Station. Remaining at the JumpShip was a Leopard CV and an Avenger-class DropShips which were also part of the unit. Today the unit’s commander Captain Anthony Steve planned to register their command with the MRBC as Steve’s Steve a unit which would specialize in facilitating the movement of resources from one planet to another. The Mammoth’s cargo bay would be turned over to any customers as would the remaining six DropShip Collars on the JumpShip for transport of any customer’s assets.
When registering his command Anthony Steve concealed from the MRBC that there was a lance of Archer BattleMechs hidden behind a fake wall on the Marion Fulton and company of Battle Armoured equipped marines for security. These assets would only be used to get the command out of trouble when on the ground.
The unit’s first contract is to transport a combined arms Battalion’s worth of equipment from Hesperus II to the McCarron’s Armoured Cavalry which is based in the Federated Suns.
Assassination attempt
Marduk, Robinson PDZ
Draconis March, Federated Suns
20th March 3118
A raid on Marduk by an unidentified combined arms regiment is followed by special forces attack on the Order of Sortek’s command complex. Analysis of the attack points towards the attack being directed at the Order of Sortek instead of any of the other facilities on the world. Marduk’s militia works hand in hand with the Order of Sortek to turn the attack aside. Like the main forces the special forces attack employs top-rated stealth equipment which had been sourced from the Draconis Combine but they fall afoul to the layered defences of the Order of Sortek’s facility. The facility is built into a mountain, blast proof door follows blast proof door with multiple secure rooms which are full of heavily armed members of the unit’s Household Guard infantry brigade, most members of the Order begin at the bottom and must work their way up before gaining a front-line position. Sheer numbers turn back the attack with the entire assault force killed, dozens of the Order’s infantry troopers die in the attack but their fanatical devotion to the defence of their facility proves their worth.
Conference Room, Rasalhague (Leviathan II-class Battleship)
Alshian, Alshian District
Rasalhague Dominion
23rd March 3118
Despite living her entire life as a warrior of the Rasalhague Dominion and having travelled in space throughout her life the new Khan of Clan Ghost Bear, and by extension the Rasalhague Dominion, Khan Angela Bekker hated space travel but it was part of her life and today was a necessary duty. On board the battleship Rasalhague she was watching the Rasalhague Dominion’s most recent Trial of Founding, since the agreement by the Khans to honour future Trials of Founding for new Bloodhouses there had been three such battles two by trueborn warriors one who had failed dying in the attempt and another a MechWarrior named Ilnay who had founded the Techus Bloodhouse witnessed by saKhan Faulk Lassenerra.
This was Angela’s first witnessing of a Trial of Founding and the first official Trial of Founding by a freeborn aerospace fighter pilot. Watching the screens Angela subconsciously rubbed the third and fourth fingers on her left hand which had been replaced years ago following The Clawing Rite. She and members of her sibko had hunted a Ghost Bear on Strana Mechty armed with only spears. In order to lure out her prey she had severed the fingers as bait ever since she had rubbed the fingers during moments of thought.
Now she was thinking deeply as she watched freeborn fighter pilot Svenga piloting a Jengiz OmniFighter, a workhorse one-hundred-ton craft built by the Ghost Bears for the last eighty plus years, flying around some well-placed debris which had broken up the “space” giving the pilots some opportunities to break line of sight and turn the tables on their opponents. Already Svenga had defeated one pilot and had succeeded in founding the bloodname but now she was intent on defeating a second pilot enhancing the new Bloodhouses prestige coming around the wreckage she unloaded a weapons salvo on the enemy Sabutai shattering the back of the of the enemy OmniFighter and earning her second kill. With her second opponent Svenga turned her fighter towards the third and last opponent an incoming Scytha immediately the Jengiz was hit by a salvo of large lasers which exposed several armour weaknesses. As Scytha approached it added in its assault-class ultra-autocannon to the mix shattering the Jengiz armour punching into the fighter’s structure ending its fight. Showing her warrior spirit Svenga was returning fire even as she punched out of her stricken one-hundred-ton OmniFighter. Even with this defeat she had won her Trial, even if she had been crippled during the ejection process her DNA would be added to the Rasalhague Dominion’s breeding programs.
“Aerospace pilot Svenga have you survived? This is Khan Bekker” She asked using the Rasalhague’s communication system with a button beside the monitor.
“Aff Khan Bekker.” The pilot answered moments later even as a small craft approached the battle site to recover her.
“You have succeeded today, announce to all on this channel your name which will be entered into our Clans’ Remembrance and become our newest Bloodhouse.”
“I am Svenga Miraborg of Clan Ghost Bear and the Rasalhague Dominion.” She announced Khan Angela Bekker could “hear the smile” on her lips as she said her name. The name Miraborg would go around the Clans like wildfire it was a name that was already in the Clans’ during the Clan Invasion of the Inner Sphere a Free Rasalhague Republic aerospace fighter pilot had flown her aerospace fighter into the flagship of the ilKhan in a suicide run. The pilot had succeeded in killing herself but she had also killed the ilKhan of all the Clans and halting the invasion of the Inner Sphere for a year and her name was Tyra Miraborg. Svenga was not a descendant of Tyra but instead she was the descendant of a cousin of Tyra’s nevertheless the announcement of her name would make plenty of noise among the other Clans and the new pilot would immediately be called upon to answer this new attention.
Landing zone
Body 42, District of Lesnovo
Free Worlds League
28th March 3118
The sky was filled with DropShips and small craft descending through the atmosphere of the world currently named as Body 42. These DropShips belonged to forces of Clan Smoke Jaguar, the defence force of the district, and of the forces of the former Amaris Empire in Exile. One of the DropShips had been deployed from the Exploration Vessel Spirit of Northumberland which had landed away from the other vessels. Now Captain Bruce Barnes approached Admiral Alessandra Schiavon the commander of the Amaris Empire in Exile forces. “Welcome to Body 42” he said
“It’s not a very pretty world” she said looking over the landscape the immediate area of the exiles landing around the equator was pleasant enough with fresh water streams and light shrub vegetation near the water. But beyond that the ground was largely frozen wastes possibly with mineral deposits which the recently landing forces could exploit if they discovered.
“But it is potentially yours, and it’s drone free” he said looking at the woman while she was ten years his senior, she was growing her blonde hair out since leaving her home space. She had also taken his advice and removed the Rim Worlds Republic emblem from her uniform’s left breast before today; as today she met Khan Petra Furey, the leader of the District of Lesnovo and of Clan Smoke Jaguar.
“Yes, it is” she agreed looking around “even this small amount of land will be enough to house our population. With some surface heaters, and greenhouse gas producers we could perhaps thicken the atmosphere and bring more life to this world, our sensors identified plenty of ice beyond the equator.”
“Ready to meet the Khan, quiaff?” He asked looking at her
“What is that word ‘quiaff?’” She asked not recognising it
“It’s a Clan word, you’ll want to learn them, even though Khan Furey and her people are former Clansmen and they hold to many of their traditions.” Barnes explained “they are the District’s little pets, we allow them to hold onto their traditions and pretend they are still Clan while really they are just a bunch of freebirths with delusions of grandeur.” He said
“But they rule the district?” The admiral asked seeing a hole in the captain’s suggestion immediately, the Khan was the ruler of the District and had final say if they gained control over the Body 42 star system.
“Through a vote, just like all things in the Free Worlds League Khan Furey played the system in our district and won the vote to lead. She can be removed by the same vote.” He explained trying to assure her that it was not a dictatorship
“And she accepts that?” Admiral Alessandra Schiavon asked “in our world your seniority gives you leadership and it is up to others to overthrow you. The power is granted based on the abilities you have previously shown. I gained mine by gunning down plenty of drones.” She said proudly even though it was an enemy they had created for themselves
“Khan Furey gained her position through combat; she won the vote for control over the district. I would be surprised if she would roll over and give up the position.” He noted the Black Lion-class Battle-cruiser in orbit had been enough of an indication that the Smoke Jaguars would not simply roll over should they be challenged. “Now to meet the Khan” he said reaching out with his arm showing them the way they made their way through some of the brush towards the Khan’s DropShip landing zone. On their way infantry troopers and armoured vehicles guarded the path they group made their way through to the Khan’s party.
As they approached the Khan turned to face them Khan Petra Furey was a young woman surprising Admiral Schiavon, these Smoke Jaguars were clearly powerful and it appeared they did not discriminate on age, she nodded a greeting to the Khan who crossed her fist across her chest in a salute. “Welcome to Body 42” she said greeting them “Admiral, I would like to formally offer this world to your people…”
“Thank you, Khan, the people of…” Schiavon began interrupting the Khan before Furey spoke again.
“Admiral, we are willing to offer this world to your people in exchange for your assistance.”
“Our assistance? We are refugees and this world is uninhabited.” Schiavon pleaded not understanding what they could give them.
“Yes, this world is for now and without your agreement on an alliance with my people it will remain so.” Furey warned
“My people are refugees; we may have ships but we would never have even gotten this far without the assistance of the Spirit” she said turning towards Captain Barnes. “The supplies and fuel you provided us with was invaluable.” Barnes simply nodded “we have agreed to share our civilian vessels with your companies, the twenty-two Sub-Compact Cores will be invaluable.” In the time of the original Star League Sub-Compact Cores were used sparingly on very specialist ships. While the civilian ships that had been brought here were not very good space faring vessels but their component parts would be worth ten times their weight.
“Invaluable to the company that is able to exploit the technology, my Smoke Jaguars and the people of this district” Khan Petra Furey said she did not appear to be angry or frustrated by the Admiral’s suggestions to date. “It will also be in your best interests.”
“I am prepared to listen” she said weary from the struggle in their home systems and the trip.
“It is quite simple, should our District come under attack or be forced to act against an enemy your WarShips will assist in our military operations.” She explained “otherwise they may remain here, though we are willing to offer your vessels repairs and assistance.”
“Those are terms we can agree to” Admiral Schiavon agreed, they would have assisted in the district’s defences without being asked. “Once we have settled, we would expect a vote within the district’s system of legislation?” She asked looking at Captain Barnes who nodded.
“Of course, Admiral, once you are settled” Khan Furey said “and what will we be calling this system?” She asked believing that they would not want to keep the designation “Body 42”
“We will call this system Illion 2 after our previous home world.” She said Khan Furey nodded and agreed Illion 2 would not be a colony overnight but with the civilian ships they could make enough money to get the colony going and support their people. Meanwhile with three new WarShips added the District’s defence Khan Petra Furey could move ahead with other plans.
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Some of you may have noticed recently it was posted that JA Baker/Starbug is possibly no longer with us. I never met him but this timeline wouldn't have become as rich as it is if it was not for contributions like his so the last update is a little tribute going out on the ship he designed, plain sailing to him.
Cache Site #47A
Bearclaw, Society Territory
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Homeworlds
12th April 3118
The struggle to control the Clan Homeworlds continued between Clans Blood Spirit, Goliath Scorpion and the Society. Communities, entire cities had been shattered during the fighting with millions killed in the fighting in space and on the ground. Today Clan Goliath Scorpion’s Crimson Seeker Trinary were engaging Society forces on the world of Bearclaw, once a stronghold of the Rasalhague Dominion, searching for a weapons cache believed to date back to the founding of the Clans.
“Well, it looks like they beat us to it.” Star Captain Fiona Hernandez said sitting in her Summoner OmniMech.
“But they have not opened it yet which gives us an opportunity” Star Commander Edmund Baba the commander of their Battle Armour Star said. His suit was perched on the seventy-ton OmniMech’s shoulder while the rest of the star were arranged over the other four OmniMechs in their star. The Crimson Seeker Trinary had gone through many combinations in the past; often reduced to only a star in strength. Now the unit was a reinforced trinary with the OmniMechs and Elementals working together in a Nova formation, supporting them was a star of ProtoMechs, a star of armoured vehicles and a star of aerospace fighters. At present the aerospace fighters were chasing off Society craft leaving the ground forces to a fight alone.
“We will hit them in waves, Mechs and Battle Armour open the door, we kick them get their attention then Liz, you hit them from the left and at the same time Tyla hits them from the right.” She said bringing in the two sub-commanders no-one disagreed with her they knew she would listen if they suggested something but there was no need the society force, they were arrayed against were inferior in number and experience. “Attack!” She called out
The Mechs ran out of the trees and into the clearing beside the entrance to the underground cache. Fiona stopped her Summoner first the Elementals launching off the back of the OmniMech firing their short-range missiles as they jumped pounding a Society Septicemia OmniMech Fiona joined them with her large lasers pounding the fifty-five-ton design, honourable combat had gone from the homeworlds a long time ago. Now it was all about the remaining two Clans surviving against the Society and expanding their sphere of influence. So far, the Blood Spirits had reformed five galaxies worth of forces while the Goliath Scorpions had four but still the Society claimed control over the majority of the Homeworlds.
The other Mechs ran beyond her Summoner launching their battle armoured troops as they did. From the left the twenty-five ProtoMechs ran into the fray adding their firepower to the considerable to that of the OmniMechs and battle armoured troops. When the ten-vehicle strong star joined the battle, it was almost over Fiona’s targeted Septicemia was on the ground as was another enemy Mech, and three vehicles. The concentrated firepower of the entire force brought down the remaining Society forces in short order, an almost bloodless loss for the Goliath Scorpion force. The Clans would do everything in their power to continue to hold Bearclaw but the Society forces constantly tried to counter their rule.
---
It took them nearly three more hours to crack the codes and break into the cache. With most of the unit in position above ground Star Captain Fiona Hernandez led a few members of her team down into the facility armed with hand weapons and wearing clothing they’d stored onboard their Mechs. Although the cache had been lost from contact for centuries the systems of the cache still worked and lights began to come on for them as they entered “welcome to Star League Defence Force Cache #47 Alfa.” The female voice said as they entered, who had recorded the message none of them knew but they all knew it was one of their ancestors. A couple of them whispered words as they reached the bottom of the entrance ramp and the floodlighting which covered the main Mechbay came up. There were three rows each with at least a dozen BattleMechs standing in them, next were several rows of combat vehicles enough to outfit an entire combined arms regiment of BattleMechs and Armour. None of the equipment would be immediately ready for combat but each of them would contribute to the growing Goliath Scorpion forces. Walking along one of the rows of Mechs Fiona stopped in front of a Minsk, one of the first Ghost Bear BattleMechs. “This isn’t a Star League Cache; our Clans formed it.” She said around glancing to the side she saw a Pollux Heavy Tank and behind it was a Vali Close Artillery Support vehicle.
“Perhaps out Clans refilled it after the supplies the Exodus Army left here were exhausted. The Mechs here may have been surpassed by new designs but they were still potent. It would have been wasteful for them to be disassembled.” Edmund Baba said, he and his point of Elementals had joined them their suits now lacking the missile launchers which gave them their armour piercing punch but they still had heavier weapons than anything the Fiona and the others had. Edmund’s suit visor was open but his deep voice still boomed through the carnivorous room.
“It is a find worthwhile of our mission” MechWarrior William said he was very young to be within the command, one of the ristars of their Clan, the new generation who would replace Fiona Hernandez and others in time but not today.
“Aff, we need to maintain the perimeter until we can extract everything to the FOB” Fiona said “we’ll take it in shifts to maintain watch and to inspect what is down here.”
“Affirmative, Star Captain, what about searching for artifacts?” Tyla Myers asked her wheel chair joining them. Her spine had been broken in a Circle of Equals but instead of resigning from duty she had continued to fight for her Clan, even from the confines of her chair.
“We can make time for that as well; it is our duty.” Fiona Hernandez confirmed every member of the Trinary would be given an opportunity to take some trinkets from the cache on top of whatever else was salvaged.
Landing Zone G6, Cordia City Spaceport
Coromodir VI, Cordia City
Aurigan Collective, Periphery
19th April 3118
The spaceport beside Cordia City was a hive of activity with a constant stream of DropShips with supplies coming in and leaving. Coromodir VI was at the capitol of the Aurigan Collective and the most developed world by a long way but with everything coming through the planet even today was a special day walking out of one of the arriving DropShips was a fifty-five-ton Goshawk BattleMech, a Clan built nimble BattleMech capable of speeds near one hundred kilometres per hour and engaging in jumps of one hundred and fifty metres.
The Mech was painted grey, silver, and black in an arctic camouflage which made it stand out on the dry world of Coromodir on which most forces used forest or urban camouflage. The Goshawk stayed on the Mech paths heading from its DropShip into one of the hangers provided for visiting BattleMechs. The crews guided the MechWarrior into one of the bays and a raising gantry moved up beside the cockpit the MechWarrior stepped out of the back of his BattleMech onto the gantry which moved away from the cockpit and slowly descended towards the ground.
Stepping off the gantry the MechWarrior was dressed in a simple jumpsuit “Colonel Strum Kintaro” he said to the technician who stood at the bottom “the Storm Raiders. I am here to see Lady Kamea Arano to negotiate a new contract.”
“Welcome to Coromodir, Colonel, you are expected there is a ground transport waiting for you.” Strum nodded, he looked at the BattleMech one more time then left heading for the vehicle. He had negotiated contracts several times in his fifty-eight years with the unit after working his way up from being a simple MechWarrior to commander of the combined-arms regiment but he could feel it in his bones, this might be the last time that he’d command the unit in a negotiation. Sturm was seventy-nine years old and he was ready for his retirement this place was as far from Kore, the world he joined the Storm Raiders, that he could get and he’d make sure that the unit was well taken care of for today.
Throne Room, Steiner Palace
Triad, Tharkad
Halfway Province, Lyran Commonwealth
21st April 3118
Within the Throne Room of the Steiner Royal Palace Archon Jessica Steiner said on the throne in front of the two Hauptmann OmniMechs which stood guard ready to engage any hostiles. Traditionally the throne room had two Griffins standing guard but as they carried long range weaponry Jessica had elected to change them for the ninety-ton OmniMechs. Both had been configured to be lethal close quarters fighters guaranteeing that nothing would survive an assault against the throne room.
Today there were no such threats however as Archon Jessica Steiner was meeting with the Commonwealth’s highest-ranking officials General of Armies Sabine Steiner and Fleet Admiral Samuel Wyn-Morris. “Archon, we wish to change the Commonwealth’s naval doctrine to combat the heavier WarShips the Clans are now fielding.” Samuel Wyn-Morris began “while the most effective and wise choice would be to employ nuclear weapons against such targets, we do not know how the Clans would react to a mass use of such weapons.” He explained while on a planet the use of nuclear weapons was frowned upon by every civilized nation in space the rules were slightly different, it was acceptable for them to be used against WarShips but rarely was such methods employed instead slugging matches were more common.
“We will not become the first nation to test that theory.” Archon Jessica Steiner answered
“Of course, not Archon, instead we are suggesting using a different method.” Wyn-Morris said “instead we propose a different strategy. The Lyran Commonwealth currently deploys ten Battle-cruiser or Battleship classed vessels, four of these ships are deployed as part of the Isle of Skye’s command and outwith this plan the other six are under our direct command.” He said the devolved military of the Isle of Skye operated independently from Tharkad. “Our proposal is that we deploy all six of these vessels in two squadrons with all other ships operating in support squadrons. With this concentration of firepower, we can overwhelm any Clan WarShip we encounter ensuring space superiority.”
“An interesting proposal we have employed exclusively assault class designs together before on the ground but in space?” Sabine Steiner wondered “won’t that leave our other ships vulnerable to being overwhelmed?”
“Not if we deploy our vessels correctly and have good intelligence backups.” Wyn-Morris said “my second proposal is that any shipyard capable of deploying Battleships and Battle-cruisers does so. Any other class being constructed should be completed but afterwards we only construct new Battleships and Battle-cruisers.”
“An all or nothing strategy” Jessica Steiner suggested “we have ten other WarShips not including scout vessels and Merchant vessels. They could complete normal patrol and guard duties.”
“Because some of our shipyards, such as Coventry are incapable of building anything larger than a Light Cruiser we will have a steady supply of lighter WarShips to fill the ranks of our patrol squadrons. While the Battle-cruisers and Battleships produced will fill out the front-line squadrons and allow us to form other ones.” He said confident in the plan “this way we can counter the Clan threat and push back any WarShip offensive short of a Rasalhague Dominion Leviathan. For that we’d need something else, probably nuclear weapons.” He finished the presentation; the Leviathan was a beast of a design of a WarShip but fortunately the Ghost Bears were the least aggressive of the Clans which operated on their borders.
“We will try out this proposal” Jessica Steiner said she was a pilot at heart and on at least one level agreed with the Fleet Admiral, sometimes firepower was needed to counter firepower and the number of guns you could bring to a fight mattered, nothing could bring more guns than a Battleship or Battle-cruiser.
Conference Room, FSS Pegasus (Columbia-class Battleship)
New Avalon, New Avalon Combat Region
Crucis March, Federated Suns
29th April 3118
The New Avalon system was always a hive of activity but today there was a special cruise taking place. The FSS Pegasus and the FSS Courageous cruised through the system heading for New Avalon itself the ancient Columbia-class Battleship and the brand-new Courageous-class Strike Cruiser moved together at a steady 1G acceleration.
Deep within the FSS Pegasus First Prince Burton Davion and Duchess Sterling Davion along with their son Duke Luther Davion stood in front of the collected press of the Federated Suns along with the last captain of the ship all four were dressed in the full-dress uniform of the AFFS. “Today is a very special occasion for our nation, for the centuries long Succession Wars naval combat fell from people’s minds as the technology was lost. The recovery of the Helm Memory Core and the return of the Clans saw the return of WarShips to the Inner Sphere.” Burton said he knew many eyes would have gone onto Sterling at that moment with her history in the Snow Raven Clan. “The Federated Suns was able to restore many vessels to its fleet which had been held in storage until the time we were able to repair them.” He said “the Pegasus was one of those ships, she served the Federated Suns into the First Succession War and she has served us for sixty-seven years since her reactivation.” He said “a ship with such a storied history does not simply go to the breakers yard and fade into history. It has been decided that the Pegasus, while unable to serve in a military fashion due to age and fatigue, she will continue to serve our nation as a museum in orbit of New Avalon. She will be used as an educational tool for future generations.” He said stepping aside to make way for Duchess Sterling Davion.
“For all of the differences that the Clans now have with the Inner Sphere, they too remember and honour the service of vessels which have served for many years.” She said bringing a different perspective “there are WarShips in the Clans fleets which have been maintained since the days of the Star League and continue to serve in different capacities. Since I came to the Federated Suns, I like many others have launched an aerospace fighter from this ship’s decks, she carried me to where I could serve the Federated Suns like she has carried thousands of others over the years. This ship and all who have sailed with her have done so with honour, and they should always be remembered.” She said standing aside making way for her son Luther Davion.
Unlike Burton and Sterling, he looked uncomfortable in the uniform but knew his duty and had agreed to this “while we cannot forget the Pegasus’ service today, we also celebrate the beginning of a new journey with the FSS Courageous joining the Federated Suns’ Navy.” As he spoke the monitor behind them activated showing the almost dagger shaped vessel which flew alongside the Pegasus. “She is the first of the new Courageous Strike Cruiser-class, a design which originally is as old as the Pegasus, and is hoped she will serve our nation far into the future.” He said as the FSS Courageous banked to port and up away from the Pegasus Burton then stepped aside allowing the last captain of the Pegasus to step up.
“My name is Vice-Admiral J. A. Baker, I am the Commander of this vessel, and I have served on this ship for the last twenty years.” He said “I have led this ship and her crew into many battles and it has been my honour to see many sons and daughters of the Federated Suns serve with distinction from her decks. Today is a special one for me as I am also retiring from the service of the AFFS. This old girl and I have done our duty, and we must never forget why we fight, and who we fight for, many people have died for the freedoms we cherish. It is unfortunate but it is the call that we have all answered time and again.” He said behind him Luther Davion watched him carefully as the old Admiral came to attention and saluted the cameras “Attention! And salute!” He commanded out of reflex every member of the AFFS in the room including the First Princes party saluted in unison the Admiral then did a perfect standing turn towards First Prince Burton Davion. “To the Honour of the Federated Suns!” He called out “Long live House Davion!” He finished around the room the words were repeated quite loudly, outside the room they could hear the chant be repeated by other members of the crew who had been close enough, their chants were then repeated throughout the ship as she made her last journey approaching New Avalon into retirement.
---
Several hours later the First Princes party visited Admiral Baker’s quarters deep inside the mighty WarShip. “Sire, welcome to… my home” he said showing them into the group of compartments. The Pegasus was such a large vessel that the commander, senior staff, and some visitors were afforded a set of compartments which included a lounge, a small kitchen area, bed and toilet facilities. Entering the room First Prince Burton Davion realized that Admiral Baker’s quarters resembled that of an those that could be found on an old sea going vessel with many wood furnishings and various mementos which the Admiral had acquired over the years each of them was secured to the furniture or into cabinets to save them from drifting around the room when the ship wasn’t under thrust. “How can I be of service?”
“You’ve given plenty service, Admiral, I just wanted to ask what your retirement plans were?” Burton asked heading over to one of the couches in the room, Sterling Davion joined him there while their son Lucian continued to look around the quarters.
“My wife is closing down our assets on Galax then she’ll join me on New Avalon.” The Admiral answered sitting opposite them “I’ve never been one for planetary connections, I like space too much.”
“I know that feeling” Sterling Davion said, she had spent so much of her life in space with the Ravens, she’d tried to stay in the air or space since coming to the Federated Suns.
“A year or two ago we bought ourselves an old KR-61 Long range shuttle, we’ve done her up a little she’s old but she’ll do the job, we plan on visiting some family around the Federated Suns, before going into the Protectorate and onto the Lyran Commonwealth. My wife was originally from the Commonwealth so we’ll track down a couple of her old stomping grounds.” He said the KR-61 was an in-system vessel capable of transporting two people from a planet to a JumpShip in basic comfort.
“I will provide you with the Courageous, she’ll need to go on a journey to test her systems, she can be your escort.”
“Thank you, Sire, for your generous offer” the Admiral said looking uncomfortable “unfortunately I must decline. I have spent forty years in space on various ships of the Federated Suns Navy. My wife has joined me several times onboard, she wants to enjoy our retirement away from the navy.” He said “we’re going to dock with passenger DropShips and JumpShips and pay to use their facilities, live a life in luxury.”
“Quite right too” Sterling agreed with the choice, she’d never retire as the wife of the First Prince but she could understand the sentiment.
“Then I’ll offer you a compromise” Burton suggested “ask your wife to delay your departure by a couple of weeks” he said “on New Avalon I have an Ares Mark IX Attack Craft which was gifted to my family by Universal Air. It’s been extensively modified into an executive transport for two.” He said glancing at Sterling who nodded “I’m willing to offer you the use of the ship, and allow you to travel in safety and luxury.” He offered him.
“Thank you, Sire, that is very kind of you.” The old admiral said smiling at the thought an Ares would be quite an upgrade over their old shuttle and would give them the freedom. “I accept.”
“We’ll also purchase your old shuttle” Lucian said Burton glanced over at his son “the Admiral can use the money enjoy his time off.”
“Why would you buy the old Starbug?” He asked surprised by the offer
“I agree” Burton said nodding to his son as he stood up.
“As do I, thank you all, this means a lot.” The Admiral said raising from his own chair meeting the First Prince’s extended hand shaking it. “I guess we’ll have a new Starbug for our trip.”
“Your service has been welcome” First Prince Burton Davion said “you should enjoy your retirement as should the Pegasus, you’ve both done well.”
-
Thank you for doing that Dragon Cat. Its fitting tribute. :'(
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Aftermath, Rest and Refit
Kirkenlaard, District of Marik
Free Worlds League
8th May 3118
Following an unsuccessful attempt to wrest control over Gallatin the mercenary units Kay’s Jokers and Jacob’s Juggernauts were licking their wounds. Colonel Tassa Kay convinces the remains of the Juggernauts to join her jokers filling out their third and fourth battalions bringing the Jokers up to a reinforced Combined-arms Regiment in strength.
Basecamp, Brotherhood of Randis
Molokai, District of Bowang
Free Worlds League
17th May 3118
Thirty years had passed since the Brotherhood of Randis had regained its independence from Clan Nova Cat. During that time the Brotherhood had accepted contracts throughout the periphery with the Taurian Concordat, Magistracy of Canopus, Cirincus Federation, Zeta Quadrant, and various independent worlds. From the twelve warriors who had left Hope (Randis) retreating from the Nova Cat advance only eight of the original members remained but Grand-Knight Amy Frews had accepted new Knight-errants from many of their contracts and the unit was now able to field three full binaries of BattleMechs, Armour and Infantry. Small contracts in the periphery were not enough to keep the unit going so they had finally accepted an Inner Sphere contract replacing Jacob’s Juggernauts on Molokai garrisoning the world for the District of Bowang.
The base they occupied could support an entire regiment instead of the short battalion that the Brotherhood currently fielded. They had powered up some of the facility leaving other parts inactive Grand-Knight Amy Frews walked over the exercise yard and entered the Mechbay standing in front of her Nova Cat OmniMech. She hated what the Mech stood for and what the Brotherhood had lost since being part of the Clan and their subsequent retreat across the periphery but she could not deny what it was capable of in the field of battle. The OmniMech like every other unit in the Brotherhood of Randis’ current TO&E was painted blue with silver highlights.
Her waist mounted comm unit beeped for attention and she reached down “Go ahead”
“Grand-Knight, we have a visitor at the gate the Loremaster of Clan Smoke Jaguar who occupy territory in the District of Bowang. He wishes to speak to you.”
“Damned Clanners” she said angrily looking at the Nova Cat OmniMech one more time “are you going to kill more of them today?” She asked the silent giant. She turned and left the Mechbay quickly heading back across the exercise yard to the main gates “Jimmy, Open up the gates!” She shouted as the approached the doors cranked and banged as the slowly swung open, she would have to get those looked at and repaired.
The gate opened revealing a tall well-muscled man wearing a black and red uniform with what looked like clawed fingers reaching over the left shoulder and extending towards the middle of the breast of the jacket. “Welcome to Molokai, I am Grand-Knight Amy Frews of the Brotherhood of Randis, we have taken garrison of this base for the District of Bowang.”
“Thank you, my name is Loremaster Algoth Beckett, I am of the same genetic stock as Lucas Beckett the former Grand-Knight of your order and I wish to speak to you.” He said Grand-Knight Lucas Beckett replaced Amy Frews grand-father as commander of the Brotherhood of Randis. Algoth Beckett was a large man with long hair which extended down over his shoulders his clothing appeared to made of various layers of leather while the forearms of were covered in brown fur. “I understand that your unit has many former members of Clan Nova Cat within it, quiaff?” He asked Algoth Beckett remained at the outside of the gate looking in.
“Yes, there are eight members of our unit active since our independence from Clan Nova Cat. A two of them can chart their service back to when they were members of your Clan.” She said while she hated that her Brotherhood had become part of the Nova Cats, she would not ignore their accomplishments.
“There are Jaguars here on this base?”
“Two” Amy Frews answered proudly “Cray and Ukra both served as members of your Smoke Jaguars before their fall, then as members of the Brotherhood of Randis, of Clan Nova Cat and now as members of the Brotherhood once more.”
“Impressive” Algoth admitted “which is why I am here Grand-Knight, I want to offer the former clansmen of your unit a chance at immortality. The combat experience of your unit is well known to my fellow Clansmen but we may not be known to you. For the last few years, we have slowly been rebuilding our strength within the Free Worlds League, we are not becoming the Smoke Jaguars we once were nor do we have the resources our people once have.”
“What is this about immortality?”
“We would like to offer your former Clansmen a chance of having their DNA added to our breeding program.” He offered
“Why?” she asked the warrior
“We are short on resources” he stated simply “including DNA. While we could take it from the warriors that have fought with us as we have rebuilt, having true Clan DNA in our program will give our next generations an edge.” He explained
“What will they be expected to do?”
“Simply provide us with a sample of DNA, and become part of something bigger.” The clansman offered.
“I will speak with the warriors.” Amy Frews offered “you will not enter this base Loremaster.”
“I understand, I will return to my transport and wait.” He said turning away heading over to a waiting Indra Infantry Transport.
---
Almost an hour later a single LGB-10V Longbow BattleMech approached the Indra. “I am Cray Rabbit of Clan Smoke Jaguar.” The MechWarrior said he was ancient for a clan-born MechWarrior at least in his eighties, his head was completely bald his hair having long ago left him, he walked with the aid of a cane but inside a BattleMech he was as capable as any others. “The other MechWarriors have agreed to provide you with a giftake, but I challenge you to accept my Trial of Founding.” He said using the term which recently came into use on Tukayyid. The Smoke Jaguars were not part the Clan Council on Tukayyid but it was a challenge he hoped they could not turn down. “I was born to this Clan, I am Trueborn within the Smoke Jaguars and I have survived when hundreds of others have failed, I will be remembered.”
“If you think you are capable of the challenge, we will accept your Trial of Founding.” Algoth Beckett replied from onboard the Indra “I will have three of my MechWarriors approach, when you see them, you may begin when ready.”
Soon after three BattleMechs approached a Phoenix Hawk PXH-3M, a Ostol OTL-5M and a Prefect PRF-1C approached three House Marik designs each of which carried the Eagle Crest of House Marik and the stalking smoke jaguar of Clan Smoke Jaguar. Immediately Cray Rabbit opened fire with his twin twenty-tube long range missile launchers targeting the Phoenix Hawk the forty missiles flew between the two BattleMechs as a coat of metal and flame. The Phoenix Hawk lifted its right arm the anti-missile system which shot down several of the missiles but the rest slammed into BattleMech exploding all over the Mech’s right arm shattering it into two parts the hand and the weapons mounted there were torn to pieces. The rest of the missiles slammed into the rest of the arm and torso destroying the remains of the right arm staggering the forty-five-ton BattleMech backwards keeping the pilot on the backfoot. Cray Rabbit did not waste time instead he opened fire with the two small long range missile launchers as well adding in another ten missiles striking the Phoenix Hawk’s legs.
To the Phoenix Hawk pilots credit the pilot kept the BattleMech on its feet and ran it to the right of the Longbow firing the BattleMech’s extended-range large laser. The red coloured beam cut across the Longbow’s armoured chest as the Phoenix Hawk continued to run. Cray Rabbit tracked his enemy twisting the BattleMech’s torso and legs to walk and track the lighter Mech both torso lasers opened fire one burned down the right torso of the enemy Mech while the other completely missed its mark. The Phoenix Hawk jumped into the air avoiding another volley of forty long range missiles the BattleMech jumped towards the Longbow Cray opened fire with the smaller racks catching the jumping Mech mid-air causing minor damage. The Phoenix Hawk pilot spun on the spot and unleashed two medium pulse lasers into the back of the Longbow at the same time Cray triggered both rear mounted lasers on his Longbow at near point-blank range the lasers could not miss and both bore into the enemy Mech’s chest burning a large hole in its damaged chest. The Phoenix Hawk pilot jumped away but Cray was already turning targeting the retreating BattleMech he did not give the enemy pilot time to react engaging it with both large long range missile racks. A little over half of the missiles struck the back of the Phoenix Hawk mid-air the Mech lost control and lost power mid-way through the jump landing flat on its face out of the fight Cray had been successful.
But one victory was not enough he twisted the BattleMech’s torso and unleashed a volley of missiles at the Ostol, the sixty ton BattleMech’s anti-missile system swatted several of the missiles from the sky while the rest blanketed the accelerating BattleMech. The short distance between the two Mechs was covered quickly by the Ostol and a pulse laser barrage from the Mech savaged Cray’s Longbow’s torso the pulse blasts punching into the armour burning deeply. Cray’s Mech was built to support others from a distance and not for close range combat he triggered the smaller five tube but the Ostol was moving too fast instead Cray twisted the Longbow to track the Ostol hitting it with the paired medium lasers one of which burned into the lighter Mech while the other missed widely. Cray continued to track the enemy BattleMech and unleashed another volley from the two large missile racks but the pilot had anticipated it and had already changed his Mech’s movement planting the Mech’s foot and twisting towards the Longbow. The Ostol unleashed a volley of pulse laser blasts which tore into the Longbow’s torso the pilot’s weapons targeted on one particular spot caused heavy damage to the Mech destroying one of the smaller missile racks which caused a minor explosion on the Mech’s torso.
Cray’s Mech recoiled from the hit but he regained control quickly unleashing another volley of missiles but the Ostol’s anti-missile system cut down many of the missiles before they reached their target. The Ostol’s larger pulse lasers slammed into the Longbow in return fire the pulse lasers exploited the whole already made in the Longbow’s armour penetrating deeply into the hull of the assault BattleMech. Inside the torso there was a deep ammunition bay for the long-range missiles, the impact of the pulse laser blast caused the missiles to cook off causing an explosion which tore through the Longbow’s torso consuming it in fire. Out of the growing inferno Cray’s ejector seat flew high into the sky propelling him away from the doomed BattleMech.
---
Several hours later Cray laid on a medical gurney inside the base. Loremaster Algoth Beckett was escorted into the room by one of the Brotherhood who remained at the door. Algoth Beckett towered over the gurney looking down at Cray. The ejection from the Longbow had not been good for Cray first the ammunition explosion from inside his BattleMech had sent a neural feedback shock into his brain and then his left side had been shattered by an impact and given his age his prognoses for recover was not good.
“You succeeded Cray Rabbit in gaining the Smoke Jaguars respect and regaining your honour.” Algoth said placing a MechWarrior pin in his right-hand which Cray gripped down on “at seventy-two years of age I believe you are perhaps the oldest MechWarrior our people have granted the title bloodnamed to since our foundation, though the records are a little spotty.” He said giving Cray a proud smile “your name will be remembered in our Clan, it is the name you have been known as for most of your life, Cray Rabbit and you will be remembered as the founder of that name.” Cray was unable to speak due to his injuries simply smiled, to most of the members of his unit giving up his life for an honour battle would sound like a waste but Cray had lived a long time and the honour of being remembered by the Smoke Jaguar Clan forever was something he could not give up. Several hours later Cray Rabbit, eighty-two-year-old founder of the Rabbit Bloodhouse passed away from his injuries but his name would be remembered by both the Brotherhood of Randis and by Clan Smoke Jaguar.
Special Forces insertion
Herndon, Clan Lynx Occupation Zone
22nd May 3118
“Alright troops if any of you enjoy a show you might want to switch on your external feeds as we’re a few seconds from drop” the Hiryo Infantry Scout’s pilot said in the infantry bay there were four Kage battle armour suited troopers. Beside the black painted Hiryo in the bay was a second identical vehicle with the same cargo, the DropShip was buffeted by the wind as the doors opened in mid-air. “Here comes the fun bit!” The pilot announced as first one Hiryo and then the second were pushed out of the DropShip’s cargo bay.
Both forty-ton Wing-in-ground-effect (WiGE) vehicles hit the air and dropped like a stone. The Hiryo like all WiGE vehicles were designed to operate close to the ground using a cushion of air to stay aloft but despite having pair of high wings and an aerodynamic chassis they were not designed to operate at high altitude. The battle armoured troopers inside the DropShip were given a treat as the two Hiryo’s dived straight downwards “we need to get below radar fast hang on!” The two Hiryos continued to plummet towards the ground when they crossed five hundred metres a parachute deployed from the rear of the WiGEs slowing their fall then at three hundred metres the rear parachute fell away from the craft and two more deployed from the top of both vehicles. These parafoils brought the two vehicles level as they continued to fall their weight ensuring they continued to fall at pace. At a little over one hundred metres the two craft started their fusion engines and blew away from the parafoils disappearing into Herndon’s undergrowth in opposite directions their mission to disrupt Clan Lynx’s hold on the planet.
---
On the other side of the Draconis Combine the six Ryuken Regiments deployed against Clan Snow Raven with two regiments each targeting Dnieper, Prinis Prime and Risin. With two elite/veteran units hitting each planet the ground forces are overwhelmed and in the Risin system the Snow Raven WarShip Pheonix, a Spartan-class Cruiser, was destroyed by Draconis Combine WarShips. In the Dnieper system the Draconis Combine vessel DCS Kashima, a Kirishima II-class Cruiser, was destroyed by the Snow Raven Potemkin-class Troop Cruiser Eden Rose. With no vehicle or BattleMech production facilities and minimal Snow Raven population in the three systems the Snow Ravens withdraw deeper into their territory.
Raid in force
Zeta Quadrant
Periphery
28th May 3118
After years of allowing the Zeta Quadrant worlds to exist on their border the Cirincus Federation launches an assault against the planets intent on bringing the Quadrant into the Federation forcefully. Deploying four regiments of troops to the four worlds Cirincus believes that it will be a walk over due to the Quadrant lacking significant defences. On all four worlds the Cirincus attack is stopped by multiple lances of Star League-era Royal BattleMechs which steamroll the attacking forces seizing the salvage and their DropShips. In all The Damned, Cirincus MechWorks, The Hateful Survivors, and the Keystone Gang are all wiped out to the man by the defenders of Zeta Quadrant.
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Dragon Cat, that was a great honor you gave to Vice-Admiral J. A. Baker....
I saw him as Admiral William "Bill" Adama giving that speech on the Galactica
:clap: :beer:
You will be missed here J. A. Baker
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Dragon Cat, that was a great honor you gave to Vice-Admiral J. A. Baker....
I saw him as Admiral William "Bill" Adama giving that speech on the Galactica
:clap: :beer:
You will be missed here J. A. Baker
Thanks it's a small tribute
This will be my last post here from now on any updates go through new thread I expect this one to close soon
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/fan-fiction/alternate-timeline-with-thanks-part-3/ (https://bg.battletech.com/forums/fan-fiction/alternate-timeline-with-thanks-part-3/)