Blood on the Horizon (Battletech SI)

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Chapter One Hundred and Thirty-One: Reactions
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    • MarkWarrior

    MarkWarrior

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    Chapter One Hundred and Thirty-One: Reactions
    Tharkad, July 15th, 3031

    “You’re absolutely sure that Hull just hit Luthien?” Katrina Steiner asked Simon Johnson.

    “Yes, I am one hundred percent certain that Hull, his Ducal Guard, and two regimental combat teams made landfall on Luthien a couple of weeks ago.” Johnson replied.

    Katrina opened up a drawer in her desk and gave Arthur a look. “You want some?” She asked as her husband brought out some glasses while she drew out a bottle of very expensive liquor.

    “I’m not going to turn down that vintage.” Johnson replied. “But I’m afraid that I’ll only have a finger or two.”

    “Reschedule all of my appointments for the rest of the day.” Katrina told her secretary via an intercom system. “I’m taking the day off.”

    “Thank you for the drink.” Simon Johnson said as he savored the alcohol. “But I’m afraid I cannot take the remainder of the day off if I want to piece together what’s going on in the Draconis Combine.”

    “Just make sure you get some rest.” Katrina said as she raised her glass in a wave as he left her office. “Arthur, if he wasn’t already happily married to Natasha, I’d have him wed to a Steiner already.”

    “I know.” Arthur responded with a chuckle as he took a sip of some of his own liquor. “What does this mean for the Commonwealth though?”

    “It means that we’re probably going to be able to push further than even our best projections.” She said as she gestured towards the map of the Inner Sphere on her wall. “With the 1st Marksman having taken and held Kessel against extreme odds, and the rest of our forces pushing hard we may have to actually pause our invasion in order to get our supply chains back together.”

    “Now, we have a bottle to finish.” Katrina said as she poured more liquor into her glass. “A toast, to Mark Hull, the most magnificent and audacious bastard in the Inner Sphere.”

    “I’m not sure he’s magnificent.” Arthur chuckled, “but he would probably agree with audacious.” He drank some more of his liquor. “Besides, he’s the only one in Davion Space that has moved into Combine Space yet.”

    “He’ll come back with some lostech or something.” Katrina stated with a smile. “He always pulls off something strange and odd.”

    “That or Natasha will come back with the Combine having sworn to follow her as their Coordinator,” Arthur said with a short bark of laughter. “I can see the Hull-Kerensky line taking the throne now.”

    “Don’t even joke about that.” Katrina smacked her husband on the shoulder. “Hull would never go for it anyway, he doesn’t like all of the extra work.”




    Taurian Concordat, July 31st, 3031

    “That bastard is just going to be even more smug the next time I see him.” Thomas Calderon said. “We need to make sure that our orbital defenses are reinforced though.” He jotted down a note. “If Hull can pull this off on Luthien, he can probably do something similar to Tharkad or New Avalon as well.”

    “Aren’t we allies with both of them right now?” Thomas’s wife asked.

    “Yes, but it’s better to prepare for something like this and for it to never happen, than to be shocked and surprised by it taking place on your doorstep.” Thomas said. “The last time a Throneworld was attacked was in the 1st Succession War, and it wasn’t on a level like this.”

    “Alright dear,” Katherine said, “But that’s something to work on tomorrow, it’s past five now.”

    “You’re right.” Thomas leaned in and gave his wife a kiss. “Let’s go home for the day.”




    Outworlds Alliance, July 31st, 3031

    “Hull did what?!” Vesar Kristofur asked as he spit out some of the water he had been drinking.

    “Hull made landfall earlier in this month, and managed to capture Theodore Kurita as well as the entirety of the current ruling family of the Draconis Combine.” The agent reported.

    “What of Marcus Kurita?” Vesar asked, “We assured him that he would have the forces for victory.”

    “Not a single person alive expected Hull to move on a Throneworld.” The agent said bluntly. “I have our people tracking signals all over the Inner Sphere and Periphery in shock at what he just pulled off.”

    “You didn’t answer my question.” Vesar pointed out. “Is Marcus Kurita dead?”

    “Yes sir, he was killed by one of the infantry commanders of Hull’s personal guard according to our reports, and any of the Kuritas that were still on the planet are so far down in the line for the throne that the Combine may be warring amongst themselves for generations before they are able to have a new Coordinator.” The agent handed over the reports. “I’m going to get some sleep now, I’ve been compiling these for the last twelve hours or so.”

    “Yes, make sure that you get the Analysts working on some projections for me first though.” Vesar commanded. “Many of my plans just went up in smoke, it’s hard to frame a hero in the Federated Suns after all.”




    New Avalon, August 30th, 3031

    “You’re absolutely certain that this is not Ian?” Hanse asked Dr. Janet Hale as he looked at the brain dead man on the medical table in front of him.

    “Yes sir, I brought more of the samples that we still had from his spinal surgery, as well as the DNA links that we found as evidence.” Hale replied with Jones backing her up.

    “We’re not certain when the swap would have been done, but I can tell you with certainty that regardless of whether or not this is the real Ian Davion, he wasn’t assassinated by us or Duke Hull.” Jones chimed in.

    “I believe you,” Hanse said, “And most of the press are saying that Hull couldn’t have done it either, but several other press areas and people have picked up the story of Hull assassinating Ian and running with it.”

    “Is there nothing that you can do?” Hale asked. “I mean, we have the proof right here.”

    “It’ll take weeks to verify everything, and I can’t do anything about the press.” Hanse shrugged. “We have freedom of the press and speech as well, if I cracked down on them I would be no better than the late Takashi Kurita and Maximilian Liao.”

    “That’s a very valid point sir.” Dr. Hale replied.

    “Jones,” Hanse turned to the 2IC of Hull’s intelligence network. “I want you to coordinate with Quintus Allard on this, see what you can figure out about when and how this switch would have taken place.” He sighed as he looked down at the body on the bed. “We’ve got some excellent people, but yours are better at SIGINT and anything involving technology like this.”

    “Yes sir,” Jones replied. “I’ll send a courier with a message to Dunham and let him know about my change in assignment.”

    “This is a mess to be frank.” Hanse said as he looked at the man and woman in front of him. “But Hull might have actually made it easier by moving on Luthien.”

    “How so?” Dr. Hale asked. “I’m not military or intelligence so I’m genuinely lost here.”

    “Right now Hull is a reigning hero who has done the impossible in the main media.” Jones said “Natasha and our Duke are featured prominently as the ones who brought the Dragon down to the lowest it’s ever been.”

    “Then how is this made easier?” Hale asked with a look of confusion on her face.

    “Some of the press are pushing Hull as the latest iteration of Stefan Amaris.” Hanse said, “It’s mostly gossip rags trying to get a sale for now, but that could change quickly.”

    “Which is why we have a limited time frame in which to get everything discovered and proven before Hull is back.” Jones agreed. “Now, there were plans to try and hit New Samarkand as well, but I’m not absolutely sure that they’ll be followed.”

    “Let’s hope they are, because if they manage to take out the ISF as well then they’ll be able to stay in the good graces of the media for now.” Hanse said. “Dr. Hale, I want you to meet with the physicians here in the Davion Palace complex as well as NAIS, they’ll be able to help prove that this is indeed a fake instead of the real Ian Davion and have better equipment than the portable stuff you brought with you.”

    “Yes sir.” Dr. Hale nodded. “I’ll get right on that if someone can give me directions.”

    “I’ll have someone escort you there directly.” Hanse gestured and David Hull stepped out of the shadows to escort Dr. Hale to the location she was supposed to go to.
     
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    • Chapter One Hundred and Thirty-One: Reactions Part Two
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    • MarkWarrior

    MarkWarrior

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    Chapter One Hundred and Thirty-One: Reactions Part Two
    Atreus, Marik Space, July 31st, 3031

    “Anton, we need to formulate a response to this.” Janos said to his brother as the battleRom finished playing. “We are not a nation that can fully defend against a strike such as this anymore.”

    “That was proven when Stewart was hit all those years ago.” Anton replied as he sagged in his chair from exhaustion. “We’ve firmly established ourselves here, and we’ve been taking the time to build our forces up again.”

    “Most of the border worlds have ceded themselves over to the Steiners after the various states failed to protect them from pirates and other raids.” Janos said as he looked at the map. “We need to bring Stewart and the Anduriens back to heel before the periphery powers start to make moves.”

    “It’s too late for that, Janos.” Anton Marik sighed, “The Magistracy built up their forces for ten years and managed to retake the worlds that were taken from them during the Succession Wars. Six months ago they launched an offensive, and the militia units that were there basically rolled over for them.”

    “If we do not do something then the Free Worlds League will never be able to return to prominence.” Janos muttered.

    “The Free Worlds League as we knew it is gone brother.” Anton said tiredly. “I don’t think that it will return as a nation in my lifetime.”

    “Either way, we need to begin building our defenses up to be able to stave off an advance like the one that Duke Hull just pulled off on Luthien.” Janos stated.

    “Janos, the only reason that he was able to accomplish what he did is because he wasn’t there to conquer Luthien.” Anton said as he pointed out the force compositions that they knew of in Combine space. “Look, we know that they have at the very minimum over half a dozen battlemech militia regiments stationed on Luthien, not to mention the Sword of Light Regiments and the Otomo.” He brought up files of those units on their ‘Noteputers. “If he were there to conquer Luthien then Hull would have been bogged down, he only brought two RCTs and an overstrength Regiment after all.” Anton brought up the limited data that they had on the Kentares Guard units. “And, they left Vincent’s Commandos back on Kentares to ensure that Kentares still had a good defense force from what we have data on.”

    “So their only target was Takashi Kurita and the leadership of the Draconis Combine.” Janos stroked his Goatee. “If Hull managed to take out Subhash Indrahar as well, then the Combine will be nearly broken between the Steiners and Davions.”

    “Aside from a few remnants, yes.” Anton agreed. “I’ve spent the last two to three days going over the data that we had and triple checking our intelligence analysis for errors, and everything points to this being a revenge strike.”

    “A revenge strike for what though?” Janos wondered. “We don’t have any intel on what might have caused Hull to attempt something so bold.”

    “Wait for a press release from his people.” Anton shrugged, “People like to brag about their accomplishments when they actually pull something like this off.”




    Robinson, July 31st, 3031

    “That Son of a Bitch!” Duke Aaron Sandoval said to himself as he looked over the compiled reports that he had on the battle of Luthien. “I can’t believe anyone actually pulled something like that off.”

    “Katheryn was a part of the 2nd Kentares Guard.” James Sandoval said as he looked through the reports as well. “I’m mobilizing sections of the Draconis March to advance from Proserpina and take several planets while the Dracs are reeling from this information.”

    “I’m going to move several regiments of the Robinson Raiders forward to retake several of the worlds that we lost against the Combine all those years ago.” Aaron Sandoval said as he looked over his force readiness. “I know that the Swordsman was supposed to be a stone tied around our necks, but with the output from that factory and several others, we’ve been able to rotate fresh machines into our forces.”

    “It’s essentially a smaller Shadow Hawk.” James Sandoval agreed. “I just wish they had put SRMs on the machine as well.”

    “Regardless, it’s a machine that fills enough roles that we can make use of it in great numbers.” Aaron Sandoval said. “We’re going to hit the Combine, and hit them hard, and if anyone tries to stop us we’ll just point out that this is the best opportunity to break the Combine that any nation has ever had.”




    Kentares IV, July 31st, 3031

    “Hmm, would you like to try some Jasmine tea next time?” Kerlin Ward asked one of the patrons of his tea shop, the Timber Wolf. “According to my studies of the art of tea making you could benefit from it most greatly.”

    “If tea worked that well, I would have already brought peace to the galaxy.” Dunham told the retired Khan. “I see business is booming.”

    “Indeed, I find that more people come for advice and stay for the tea than the other way around though.” The old man stroked his beard. “I am uncertain as to why they would come for my advice though, I am merely and old Khan who enjoys his peace and quiet.”

    “Kerensky and Hull just managed to raid Luthien.” Dunham told Ward. “I figured you should know.”

    “I am no longer concerned with matters of war.” Ward said with a small twinkle in his eye. “But I do love a good story. Now, tell me of this great battle that was fought.”




    Oberon VI, July 31st, 3031

    “What is it?” Khan Ulric Kerensky asked Jaime Wolf as he entered the office. “I am currently trying to figure out how to join this “Alliance” in order to get assistance in setting up a civilian government.”

    “You are going to want to see this Khan.” Jaime Wolf said as he carried a copy of a Battlerom over to the Khan’s desk.

    –
    –
    “Why?” Kerensky sighed as he facepalmed. “Why must Natasha Kerensky always cause that much more work for me?”

    “What do you mean?” Jaime raised an eyebrow.

    “I am going to have to add both her and her bondswomen to the Rememberance.” Ulric Kerensky sighed. “They have taken part in one of the greatest battles in the history of the Inner Sphere, and I missed it.” Ulric stood up from his desk and began to leave his office. “Are you coming?” He asked over his shoulder.

    “Where are we going?” Jaime asked.

    “To gather up a Galaxy and go take part in the great campaign that is going on of course.” Ulric stated. “We have the opportunity to seize greatness, we must strike.”

    “Should I send a message to Archon Steiner informing her of our movements?” Jaime asked. “She may take it as a sign of aggression against the Lyran Commonwealth.”

    “Yes, and I will gather up the best of our warriors and launch an attack that will pierce the Draconis Combine.” Ulric grinned. “Finally some action after all of this peace.”




    Strana Mechty, July 31st, 3031

    “Where is Khan Weston Cooper?” Khan Elias Crichell of the Jade Falcons asked. “We are here to vote once again on whether to move on the Inner Sphere or not.”

    “The Snow Ravens have not been in contact with us in almost a year aside from our standard trade deals.” The Khan of Clan Ghost Bear replied. “This is most unusual.”

    “We have not fought any trials against them of late.” Khan Terrance Kufahl responded. “Admittedly though, we have been busy consolidating our finds after winning our Trial of Absorption on Clan Smoke Jaguar.”

    “Clan Wolf Continues to ferry their populace to somewhere that we have no knowledge of,” One of the Warden clan Khans spoke up. “And they have refused any challenges.”

    “Do we believe that Clan Snow Raven is attempting to do something similar?” Khan Crichell asked. “That would violate the vote yes?”

    “Not if they have not invaded the Inner Sphere.” Khan Kufahl stated. “They may be attempting to locate new worlds in which to colonize.”

    “We shall find out soon enough.” The Khan of Clan Ghost Bear spoke up. “Let us begin the vote on whether we shall move on the Inner Sphere or not.” He began the voting. “I vote Nay.” This was followed by a near unanimous vote of agreement by all of the clans.

    “We shall give it some time before we move on the Inner Sphere.” Elias Crichel stated. “For now we wait and bide our time.”
     
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    • Chapter One Hundred and Thirty-Two: Dark Days
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    MarkWarrior

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    Chapter One Hundred and Thirty-Two: Dark Days
    August 15th, 3031

    “We managed to pull off almost all of our main objectives.” I told Godbolt and Packer. “We have the Dragon, Charger, Quickdraw, and Grand Dragon lines on board the Age of Discovery, along with large pieces of the Lancelot lines before we destroyed the rest of the production there.” I sighed. “I need one of your units to take the Age of Discovery along with the Excaliburs and Triumph dropships that we looted and assist the Marines in getting to Kentares with the Narukami that we took.”

    “I hate to say it,” Packer started. “But I took a bit more losses than Godbolt did, and should probably get started on making sure that Kentares is covered from reprisal.”

    “I’m taking the Manassas and the Vanguard with me to hit New Samarkand while we’re still on the move,” I told the senior officers. “And I want to take out the ISF HQ while we’re there,” I shrugged. “After we strip all of the intelligence we can from it of course.”

    “What are we going to do with Theodore Kurita and his family?” Godbolt asked.

    “I’m turning them over to Hanse, it’s his ball park after all.” I said with a shrug, “I’m just playing in it.”

    “So Packer, you and the 1st Kentares are going to be taking the wounded, and all of the loot that we have back to Kentares.” I said with a smile on my face. “Be careful and stick to the dead systems that we used to make it to Luthien in the first place, the Age of Discovery looks like a mighty tempting target right now after all.”

    “We’ll keep the booty safe.” Packer said with a grin. “You can count on us.”

    “Y’all did incredible work on Luthien.” I looked at the two COs. “Anything you want after this, if it is in my power I’ll make it happen.”





    New Avalon, September 15th, 3031

    “We’ve run all of the possible tests.” Dr. Banzai told Hanse Davion. “Dr. Hale here was a big help in showing us what she had already gone over.”

    “I was afraid that might be the case.” Hanse replied with a massive sigh. “Do we have any idea whose body it is?”

    “I’m afraid not,” Banzai shook his head with a frown. “But we do have verifiable proof that it’s not First Prince Ian Davion.”

    “That’s what I needed.” Hanse said as he flipped through the documentation that was provided to him. “Do we have an estimated timeframe on when the switch took place?” He asked Quintus Allard.

    “We have identified areas where it would have been easiest to replace him, yes.” Quintus used his slate to send the files over. “We’re fairly certain that the swap occurred while he was on his tour of the Outback.”

    “There must have been traitors in our midst.” Hanse said as he flipped through the files.

    “We’ve identified the four that are most likely to be infiltrators.” Quintus said calmly. “With your permission, I would like to ask the personal guards of House Davion if they would be willing to subject themselves to Narco Interrogation in order to prove their loyalty.”

    “I’m not going to mandate it Quintus. “Hanse said after a moment's thought. “But we can see who is willing to submit themselves to it and move on from there.”

    “Most of us are going to be willing to Hanse.” Quintus said. “Even Jones and Hale here would be willing.”

    “Most of the intelligence that I know is already shared with you anyway.” Jones agreed. “I’d prefer to not share some of our department’s secrets, but I would be willing to do that if we were able to catch some traitors.”

    “You have my permission to administer it to people who are willing Quintus.” Hanse said. “We’re not going to lose the loyalty of some of our best people over this issue.”

    “We’ll find the traitors or infiltrators Hanse,” Quintus stated with a small smil. “And we’ll figure out who did this to Ian and bring them to justice.”

    “Alright, everyone can leave.” Hanse said tiredly. “Quintus, can you have Yvonne sent in, I think she needs to know about this and I should be the one to inform her.” ‘




    Altair, September 15th, 3031

    “We’re still bogged down here.” Stone commed his XO. “The Dragoons brought some sort of larger powered armor than our Mithril suits, and they got the drop on us.”

    “We’re handling the Ryuken regiments over here decently, I can send over a detachment of aerospace to clear some space for you to fall back.” Stones XO Major Vance replied. “But there’s still a lot of enemy assets.”

    “I have you trapped here Colonel Stone,” A voice said over open channels. “If you tell me where Duke Hull is then I will allow you to depart from this world.”

    “Colonel Wolf, even if I knew where Hull was I wouldn’t tell you.” Stone replied as he moved his MAD-2T around a gutted Von Luckner. “You’ll have to pry the information from my cold dead corpse.”

    “We shall see Colonel, we shall see.” The voice cut off as the channel closed.

    “I want all of our units to start falling back towards the LZ.” Stone commanded the forces with him. “I’ll hold the line with a couple of fireteams until Vance can get us reinforced.”

    The mixed regiment began to fall back in an orderly fashion, leaving Stone with a mixed company of vehicles and ‘mechs to hold the line against the Wolf’s Dragoons.

    “You gonna come and face me like a man Colonel Wolf?” Stone asked. “Or did you leave your balls back in the Wolf Confederation with your brother?”

    “Did you believe that I was limited by what my brother has done?” Joshua Wolf asked as his Black Knight walked out into view followed by three lances of assault ‘mechs. “This is where you lose Stone.”

    “We’ll see about that.” Stone replied as he fired his twin Clantech ERPPCs along with his LB-5X at one of the Assault ‘mechs. “The time for the Wolf’s Dragoons is coming to an end.”


    Author's note: Sorry if this seems a little incoherent, I've got a killer migraine right now and it makes it hard to write. I may will have to go back and edit this because I felt like I was missing a section, but at this point I'm just glad that I put a chapter out today. May or may not have any chapters out next week, I'm going on vacation and will not be bringing my computer with me. Also, I know canonically the Grand Dragon didn't make an appearance until later, but that got changed here by butterflies Author hand wave etc...
     
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    • Chapter One Hundred and Thirty-Three: “It’s Treason Then”
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    Chapter One Hundred and Thirty-Three: “It’s Treason Then”
    New Avalon, September 21st, 3031

    “We’ve identified these four as infiltrators and two more as traitors.” Quintus Allard told Hanse Davion.

    “I take it they’ve already been imprisoned?” Hanse asked as he looked at the files that Quintus had just handed him. “I’d like to begin rolling up the last of any enemy intelligence cells on New Avalon immediately.” He looked at the map on his wall which had Luthien circled. “With the Combine on the back foot we need to begin getting things arranged to exploit the likely succession crisis they’re going to go through.”

    “We’ve already begun interrogation on the six agents we found in the staff here in the Palace.” Quintus responded. “And I’ll have our people start removing the ISF cells in conjunction with DMI shortly.”

    “Have the Taurians or Lyrans been sharing intelligence with us of late?” Hanse asked.

    “Yes, we’ve been coordinating with the Lyrans since they launched OPERATION BLITZKRIEG Quintus said. “We’ve helped Duke Sandoval to identify several key weak points in the Combine, and he’s launching a full offensive on the heels of the Sack of Luthien. That Hull pulled off.”

    “Sticking with that term huh?” Hanse asked. “I thought that was just something that our PR people came up with.”


    “It fits.” Quintus stated bluntly. “And until anyone knows where Hull is going to move next the entire Combine will be on the move.”

    “It is fitting.” Hanse agreed with a small smile. “And Yvonne and I have a cover story to move forward with in regards to Ian.”

    “Oh?” Quintus asked with a raised eyebrow.

    “A hit by the Combine in order to throw suspicion onto Hull after he departed with his two guard units.” Hanse said. “The full details are in this packet.” He slid the document over to Quintus for review.

    “I’ll look it over and get back to you along with the results of the interrogation.” Quintus replied. “I have a lot of work to do after all.”

    “I’ll let you get to it.” Hanse said. “I would appreciate it if you had the results in the next couple of days though.” He sighed, “Press release is on the twenty fifth.”

    “I’ll have it on your desk tomorrow morning Hanse.” Quintus smiled as he left Hanse’s office.





    September 22nd, 3031

    “We’ve got around sixty days until we reach New Samarkand.” I told the assembled officers. “I fully expect every single regional capital in the Draconis Combine to be on extremely high alert after what we just managed to pull off on Luthien.”

    “I do not believe that we will face the same amount of forces.” Yvonne Hazen spoke up as she brought up the intelligence briefs that Dunham had sent with us when we first left. “The Fifth Galedon Regulars have been stationed there underneath Grieg Samsonov for the last decade or so.”

    “They have an unusual TO&E for a Combine unit.” Mathis brought up. “We know based off of MIIO reports that its a medium unit, but that for every one ‘mech lance that they use they’re also backed up by two combat vehicles lances.” He glanced around. “They may not have quite the sheer amount of skill that we faced on Luthien, but these will be some of the hardest opponents we’ve ever faced, and a large part of that will be because everyone is going to be trying to bring us down for taking out the Coordinator.”

    “If they’re not too busy trying to fight for the specific person that they believe should be the new Coordinator that is.” I said as I looked over the map. “We just took out Takashi, Subhash Indrahar, and were able to take the immediate successors to the Combine as hostages. This along with us making sure that Marcus Kurita was taken out means that there’s almost certain to be a succession crisis.”

    “That may wait until after the Steiners and Davions are done with their invasions though.” Godbolt said after processing everything. “There’s nothing more unifying than an external threat.”

    “Unless we manage to feed those flames.” I said while stroking my beard. “What if we allow Samsonov to retreat and leave New Samarkand in order to head back to Luthien, we know from out intelligence reports that he’s a power hungry man, and that the 5th Galedon and the 19th Galedon Regulars are likely going to be loyal to him.”

    “Engineer this in a way that we get to hit the ISF HQ and set off a chain reaction.” Mathis said as he rubbed his hands together with a grin. “We’ll have to make several separate operational plans for this based on the reactions that we get.”

    “Better to have backup plans and be willing to improvise than to be caught by surprise.” I agreed. “While on New Samarkand, I’m going to need someone to get news reports from the rest of the Inner Sphere.” I shrugged when I got several questioning looks. “We’ve been in the dark for far too long, and we’re going to need more intel before we return to Kentares IV.”




    New Avalon, September 25th, 3031

    “Almost a year ago today I stepped in as regent while my brother First Prince Ian Davion went on a tour of the Outback in order to survey and check on the improvements that the realm as a whole has been investing in.” Hanse began the press release. “When Ian returned from his travels, he told me to remain as regent for a short time while he went on a short vacation before returning to New Avalon in order to resume his duties.” Hanse inhaled and looked at the gathered media presence. “A short period of time later, during the standard requalifications for mechwarrior certification my brother was harmed by a Draconis Combine plot to remove him from the head of the realm. Our experts at MIIO and DMI have explained to me that this was likely a plot to try and prevent Duke Hull of Kentares from moving on the Combine immediately.” Hanse smiled sadly. “That obviously didn’t work out very well for them.” He along with several members of the press chuckled. “Seeing as the Sack of Luthien happened last month and they still don’t know where Hull will hit next.”

    “What happened to the First Prince?” A reporter stood up and asked while Hanse paused.

    “The details on that will be released shortly.” Hanse replied. “But believe me when I say that the truth will not only set you free, but will shock you to the core.”

    “Is there anything you can tell us now?” A separate reporter asked.

    “Just that we are moving forward with an invasion of the Draconis Combine, and that our allies the Taurian Concordat and the Lyran Commonwealth have been extremely helpful in supporting us during this time of crisis.”
     
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    • Chapter One Hundred and Thirty-Four: Status Report
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    • MarkWarrior

    MarkWarrior

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    Chapter One Hundred and Thirty-Four: Status Report
    October 31st, 3031

    “Quintus, why didn’t you show me the recording before?” Hanse asked as he doubled over in laughter while watching the BattleRom showing the capture of one of the spies.

    “Because I knew that you wouldn’t take it seriously if I showed you this.” Quintus replied with a sigh. “The only reason that we didn’t lose any of our people is because they were wearing Mithril.”

    “I know.” Hanse struggled to breath without bursting into laughter again. “Just watch it from a comedic angle this time.”

    –
    –
    Recording Date/Time: 1900 hours New Avalon Standard Time 21/09/3031

    The Blakist infiltrator sighed with relief as he collapsed into the office chair of his penthouse apartment and turned on the swivel to look out upon Avalon City. Being a part of the Palace Guard paid really well, and even if he was just an infiltrator he might as well enjoy the money while he could.

    “Incoming call from Julia,” His caller ID said from his slate.

    “Julia!” He answered while thumbing his electrified baton and spinning it in his fingers. “I thought we weren’t supposed to contact each other.”

    “They’re at the door,” She said and then her voice just cut off.

    “Hmm,” The Blakist said as he shrugged and continued spinning his baton. Putting his hood up he cued up the security feeds to his apartment building. “So they’re onto us.” He muttered as the feeds started going out one by one. “I guess I’ll get ready then.” He grabbed three GyroJet pistols and set them into holsters as he also prepped the suicide tooth that he had. He then used a stimpatch and readied himself for when they came through the door.

    The door didn’t stand up to a towering two meter tall man clad in Mithril. And the Blakist flinched backwards at first before bringing the first of the gyro jet pistols up to fire. “You think you can face us!” He taunted. “We will have unlimited power when we seize Terra and your homeworlds!” He fired the pistol cursing as he missed the power armored man moving through his apartment.

    “You will fail!” The Blakist yelled as a different trooper moved in closer to engage him. “You know what wasn’t reinforced in my apartment?” He asked as he moved out of the way of the Davion trooper. “The Windows bitch!” He laughed maniacally as the trooper fell down from the penthouse before the trooper that first came into his apartment reached him. Trying to activate his suicide capsul, he moved his tongue around only for the Davion soldier to force his mouth open, nearly breaking his jaw in th process and yanking out the suicide tooth.

    “You are under arrest, by committing treason and being a foreign agent you have temporarily forfeited all of your rights until a proper investigation and interrogation is performed. Don’t remain silent, being vocal may save your life.” The Davion Soldier said as he restrained the hooded man.

    –
    –

    “Okay, maybe it’s not as funny the second time around.” Hanse said after they finished watching the recording.

    “It is admittedly funny in some parts.” Quintus said. “And we’ll have to use some of it for training, but aside from that it just goes to show that whoever accomplished this was no amatuer. They were well trained and if we didn’t have the Mithril and extremely professional personnel this could have been a disaster.”

    “We’re finished with interrogation and cross checking the information correct?” Hanse asked.

    “Yes Hanse,” Quintus replied. “They’re a significant force based out of the Outworlds Alliance. The remnants of the radical faction of Comstar that we thought had been eliminated. The switch was made on Delos IV and they had other agents on the planet to assist with the switch of the real Ian and this duplicate.” Quintus showed the details that they had uncovered on his slate. “The Switch had to have been made in a three week window,” Quintus paused. “And if I were in charge I would have made sure to do the swap early on in order to get as much information out of the real Ian in order to make the fake as convincing as possible.”

    “Do we have a name?” Hanse asked bluntly after looking through the files in silence. “Because we’re about to go on the warpath.”

    “Vesar Kristofur, former Precentor Rom of Comstar according to the records that Hull seized all those years ago.” Quintus replied. “And you know just as well as I do that we don’t have the resources to move on the Outworlds Alliance yet.”

    “When Hull gets back we’ll have him boost production of the Clan tech, and start to get the Swordsman and other mechs Royal grade refits and production, I want to be able to utterly destroy the ones who did this to Ian, and I want them able to know that they were outmatched from the beginning.”

    “We’ll get on it right away.” Quintus said. “I’ll send Dana and Jonathon your way before you have an explosive chain reaction.”




    Altair, October 31st, 3031

    “We made them retreat from here, but I’m not certain that it’s a good thing.” Stone said as he climbed out of his Marauder. “We’re going to be stuck here until we can get relief from Archon Steiner.” He looked at the pockmarked and slightly melted armor of his ‘mech.

    “I’m just glad we made it out of here alive sir.” Vance climbed up to meet him. “That was the hardest fight we’ve ever been in.”

    “I still don’t know why Wolf left though.” Stone said as he took a sip of water from his canteen. “It’ll probably bother me for a while though, and until we finish tying all of this down for the Steiners to send a relief force we’re going to be on our own.”

    “I’ll start getting the list of our people who speak Japanese together.” Vance agreed. “We’ve got the hardest job ahead of us now, pacification.”




    Kessel, November 2nd, 3031

    “It’s good to see someone here to take over.” Colonel Zoe Carter greeted the CO of the 2nd Skye Rangers. “We nailed down and fought off a significant amount of forces over the last six months or so.”

    “We got your reports.” The CO of the 2nd Skye responded. “We’ll take it from here and the Archon wants your unit to report to Tharkad for some Rest and Recovery before pushing into Combine space even further.”

    “Thanks,” Carter replied. “My unit will be happy to hear it.”




    New Avalon, November 4th, 3031

    “We’re never getting deployed.” David Hull-Kerensky complained to his drinking partner Morgan Hasek-Davion.

    “Tis the life of being the only heir.” He agreed as he knocked back his own shot.”Until we’re able to convince the higher ups that we’re responsible enough to not expose ourselves in front line combat.”

    “The downsides of being nobles.” David agreed. “We should probably head back to the Palace though.” He looked around. “The detail that Mathis has assigned to me don’t like me staying in one place for too long.”

    “Same.” Morgan jerked his head back towards the area where his own bodyguard detail was attempting to remain hidden. “Mine are a little more obnoxious than yours though.”

    “Mathis just emphasizes stealth a little bit more. But, I all but guarantee that I’ve got some plainclothes guards as well as Mithril close and on standby.” David said as he stood up. “I’ve got a feeling that something bad is about to happen.”

    The two heirs had barely gotten into their armored vehicles before an explosion and fireball erupted from the bar they had just left.

    “Get down!” The head of David’s bodyguard detail yelled. “ And stay down, the windows are armored, but you’re not in Mithril.” The vehicle peeled off and moved aggressively back to the Davion Palace as fast as it could navigate the traffic.
     
  • Threadmarks
    • Chapter One Hundred and Thirty-Five: Power
  • Threadmarks
    • MarkWarrior

    MarkWarrior

    Well-known member
    Chapter One Hundred and Thirty-Five: Power
    New Samarkand, November 29th, 3031

    “We’ve got seven days before we make landfall on New Samarkand.” I told the assembled officers. “I fully expect them to send all of their ASF at us in order to prevent us from doing what we came here to do.”

    “We’re ready sir.” Blaze said. “They can’t have more aerospace assets than we faced at Luthien.”

    “That’s not a good attitude to have.” I said bluntly. “We can’t get overconfident here, this is the headquarters of the ISF and if we want the data that’s going to be stored here then we need to approach this with the utmost caution.” I pointed at the holographic representation of the planet that we were heading towards. “Mathis is dropping with nearly all of our infantry onto the HQ from orbit along with Natasha’s Marauders as cover.” I looked at Yvonne Hazen and Mathis. “I need you to coordinate and get Tech Specialist Jones into a place where we can get as much data as possible.”

    “Yes sir.” Mathis said. “Anything specific we need to have Jones look for?” Mathis asked.

    “No,” I shook my head, “Just rip as much data as we can, we’ll have Dunham and his crew go over the intel later.”

    “I’ve got an operational plan.” Godbolt said as she inserted a data stick into the holographic table. “Assuming you’re okay with me going forward as lead sir.” She looked at me.

    “You can act as lead.” I said with a shrug. “As long as we manage to accomplish our main objectives that is.”

    “Well, here’s the overall plan that I have.”





    Tharkad, December 15th, 3031

    “Colonel Carter.” Archon Katrina Steiner greeted the mercenary CO. “You’ve done some incredible work on Kessel, you diverted enough forces that it allowed us to push and take a great deal more than we originally planned for OPERATION BlITZKRIEG.”

    “We were just fulfilling our contract obligations ma’am.” Carter replied with a smirk. “Just give us some time to rest and get back on our feet and we’ll be ready to head back out into the field.”

    “I’m sending you back to Kentares.” Katrina said and enjoyed watching the Mercenary commander deflate. “Hull is going to need all the help he can get after what he just pulled off.”

    “I’m afraid I’m a bit out of the loop.” Carter said, “I would appreciate being filled in ma’am.”

    “Hull not only pulled off the Sack of Luthien, but he also just struck New Samarkand and Soul, wrecking the ISF headquarters and hitting an old Blankenburg Technologies storage facility there.” Katrina said with a smile. “He also managed to accomplish things that will set back the Combine for years if not decades to come.”

    “And reprisal might come sooner rather than later.” Carter came to the realization. “Ma’am, I should get back to Kentares ASAP.”

    “Sit back down Colonel.” Katrina told Carter. “Packer and the 1st Kentares Guard just returned according to the LIC and their own reports, Kentares is secure for now.”

    “It’s always interesting to see the kind of people that Hull chooses to be commanding officers.” Katrina said after letting Carter sit in silence for a moment. “You’re currently the youngest out of all of them I believe.”

    “Yes ma’am.” Carter responded. “I worked hard to get here and I think I’ve proven myself.”

    “I must agree, it’s not every day that one unit holds off and finishes off four regiments with one regimental combat team.” Katrina offered.

    “We’re used to long odds ma’am. The Gauntlet always feels like more pressure than actual combat.” Carter said.

    “I’ll have to agree with you there.” Katrina laughed. “I bet Sheppard has changed it a lot since I was in the Marksman though.”

    “You were in the Marksman?” Carter asked with a shocked look on her face.

    “Let me tell you some stories about when Hull was about your age.” Katrina said, with a grin.




    Dieron, December 20th, 3031

    “All of the hatches are sealed?” Melissa asked her lance. “Make sure that we keep an eye out for infantry, those battle armor suits that they’ve been using have wrecked more of our combat vehicles than should have happened.”

    “Yes Ma’am.” Her lance responded.

    “Be wary, they’ve been dropping buildings on the ‘mechs in this area.” Melissa said. “And we’re one of the only lances that haven’t taken a lot of damage.”

    “Contact!” The Toro ‘mech pilot said with urgency in his voice. “We’ve got an assault lance bearing in on our position, two Chargers, a Victor, and a Striker.”

    “Militia units lead by a frontline lance commander.” Melissa said, looking at the models of the ‘mechs. “Hammer two, I need you and your Marauder to start wearing them down at range along with Hammer Three, while Hammer Lead and Hammer Four move into position for the kill shots.”

    “Moving to skirmish.” Hammer Two, the Marauder pilot responded as he began to move to the right streets in order to start firing at range along with Hammer Three, the Toro Pilot.

    “Come on Hammer Four, power down our sensors and follow me.” Melissa ordered as she powered down everything but the engine in order to navigate the streets that she had memorized. “We’ll power up again when we’re in position.”

    The two Alacorns that had been gifted to Melissa moved in near silence, trusting their two ‘mech lancemates to draw the attention of the Assault Lance and allow them to pull off their ambush. After five minutes of weapons fire exchanged at extreme ranges Melissa’s tank and its partner came out of a side alley right behind the assault lance. Powering on her sensors, Melissa lashed out at the closest Charger with a full alpha, making sure to already have the next target set up. The first Charger fell to the ground even as the second Alacorn opened fire on the Victor, causing the mech to lose its autocannon as it turned to react to the shots coming from its rear. Continuing its spin, it moved to engage the two tanks only to realize that it had turned its back on the two lighter machines that had been the distraction earlier. A clantech Large Pulse Laser, LRMs and two ERPPC’s to impact the rear torso, striking the autocannon ammunition and causing the ammo to erupt, throwing the Victor to the ground as the lance continued to pour fire into the remaining Striker and Charger mechs.

    “Good kills, mark them for salvage, although I’m not certain there’s a whole lot left of the Victor.” Melissa said as she looked down at the remains of the lance. “We’ve got to keep moving to our rendezvous point, and we are on a schedule after all.”




    New Avalon, December 15th, 3031

    “We need to get ready to start moving on the Outworlds Alliance.” Hanse told Quintus Allard and Field Marshal Felsner along with Yvonne Davion. “If we wait much longer they may be too fortified for us to accomplish anything.”

    “I’ll start working on some plans.” Yvonne said, “But quite frankly we need to work on one war at a time, and until the Combine is no longer a threat we’ve got to work with what we’ve got.”

    “I’m going to be taking possession of the Coordinator’s family within the month.” Allard said. “We’re going to have to make a decision as to what we’re going to do with them.”

    “I’m working on it.” Hanse replied. “It just takes time.”

    “The Wolf Confederation started conquering worlds in the coreward periphery border about a month ago, and the Steiners have retaken almost all of the worlds that they’ve lost over the Succession Wars.” Yvonne reported. “We need to strike while the iron is hot and ensure that the Combine’s spirit is broken.”
     
  • Threadmarks
    • Chapter One Hundred and Thirty-Six: Destroyer
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    • MarkWarrior

    MarkWarrior

    Well-known member
    Chapter One Hundred and Thirty-Six: Destroyer
    New Samarkand, December 7th, 3031

    "Nat!" I said as I grabbed her off of the gantry before she climbed into her Nightstar. "Make sure that you come back."

    "I will." She took off her Mithril's helmet and gave me a fierce kiss before climbing back up and into her Nightstar. "Just keep the 'mech bay open for me."

    "I'll make sure that Samsonov is held off until you're done with the ISF HQ and New Samarkand Metals." I said as I turned back to where I was commanding the offensive. "Just make sure to grab what data you can, I don't want the Combine to be able to hold us off after this."

    "Have a little faith, husband." Natasha said and I could feel her smirk through the audio. "I shall take care of it." Her Nightstar began to plod out of the 'mech bay with Mathis’ infantry clinging onto certain areas where we had bolted handholds on, along with some hovercraft and her six bondswomen trailing after her.

    "Alright people," I turned around and clapped my hands together. "We've got to hold off an overstrength regiment until we've packed up the Schrek Factories, what's left of the decommissioned Gladiator lines, and whatever Intel that Natasha can pull from the ISF HQ."

    "We burning everything that's left?" Mendoza asked.

    "There isn't actually a lot more manufacturing here." I responded. The decommissioned Gladiator lines can be repurposed, and we don't field the Demolisher, and while we might like the Behemoth, it'll come down to how much time we have, we have to move on to hit that Blankenburg Technologies storage facility."

    "So loot what we can, and burn the rest." Mendoza responded. "And do our best to stall for time."


    —

    —

    "You think that you can stop us?" Natasha broadcast as she kicked down the main gate of the ISF HQ while shredding two Panther 'mechs with headshots from her Gauss Rifles. "I'm here for revenge, and you are simply not good enough to stop me." Natasha Kerensky was followed closely behind by Nadia Winson's Gargoyle who used her jump jets to evade the lasers from a Jenner before crippling both of the 'mechs that had been holding the gates with her ER Large Lasers and Medium Pulse Lasers.

    "Kerensky, my people are in, and Jones is breaking into the computer systems now." Mathis reported, he and several teams of Mithril clad infantry had dropped into the ISF headquarters while Natasha made her way to the enclosed area. "Jones says that they've already begun to wipe the systems clean, and that he has a limited window to pull data.”

    "Be wary Mathis," Natasha states "I fear that given the chance to loot at Mithril and Elementals the DEST teams may have been given upgraded gear."

    "A but too late for that Kerensky." Mathis replied as he fired his handheld Gauss rifle at the enemy powered armor and enjoying the fact that the production models were able to actually be effective against powered and Battle armor. "We've already encountered some of those teams and we're going to be pinned down here until Jones is done with the Computers."

    "Just stay alive Mathis." Kerensky replied with a savage grin on her face as she threatened the enemy lances that were attempting to breach the perimeter that her forces had set. "I need your kids to look after mine after all."

    "Working on it!" Mathis responded as he sidestepped a vibrokatana and snapped the DEST commando's arm in two despite the armor and double tapping the neck joints with his rifle before sweeping the leg of the next commando and drawing his sidearm to finish that enemy off. "Kinda busy down here though." He nodded at his fireteam as they finished off the remaining three commandos from this wave with a hellish crossfire.

    "Just let me know when you are finished." Kerensky cut the channel to allow the infantryman to focus on his job.

    —
    —

    "Jones, it's been a half hour and they're not slowing down any!" Mathis said as he fought yet another commando in CQC with a stolen Vibrokatana. "We're running out of ammo here."

    "I'm done!" Jones responded. "I only got a little over half of their overall data because they had started wiping it, but half is better than none."

    "Protect the VIP!" Mathis ordered as he stepped over the bodies littering the floor. "Jones, pass out your ammunition, we may need it in order to get out of here."

    "This is Major Mathis to all infantry teams in the ISF HQ. Set your charges and get the fuck outta here, we're in the clear." Mathis commanded as he and his team moved out of the base, leaving both little and big explosive surprises behind.

    "Mathis, this is Kerensky, I hope that you are done in there, because we have a mass of VTOL's coming in on attack vectors and we are low on ammunition."

    "We're on our way out now!" Mathis responded. "Give us five minutes to get clear!"

    The infantry company made their way out, nearly a hundred men and women sprinting out with wounded thrown over their shoulders and the dead having been dragged out behind the living.

    "Get clear, blowing the charges now!" Mathis yelled out over his comms as he flipped the switch on his detonator and watched as the explosions rippled upwards from the basement levels, sending the complex crashing into the ground.

    "ISF HQ is gone ma'am. " Mathis said, with a wide grin on his face. "We're going to have the Maxims come in for pickup if you don't mind staying on guard until they get here."

    "Mathis!" Natasha laughed. "We've got you covered until the end of time." The comms channel cut off as she focused on eliminating yet another enemy in her sights.

    "Jones," Mathis said as he sagged against a piece of rubble. "I'm starting to feel a little old for this shit."

    "I thought you were forty-nine Major?" Jones asked.

    "I am, but even longevity treatments don't make your mind feel younger." He replied. "Don't get me wrong, I love my job, but it's not always easy, especially after a day like today."

    "The boss just doesn't like the fact that he's gonna get another medal on his chest." A member of Mathis' handpicked fireteam chuckled. "Takes on thirty DEST commands by himself and says he's tired."

    "Yeah, you should hear what Packer used to complain about. "Back in his day it would have been fifty, and all of them in hand to hand combat!"

    "Fuck off!" Mathis flipped his fireteam off. "You're just jealous that I pay for all the extra training."

    "No, we're just not quite at your skill level boss." One of them made a gesture that meant she was smiling behind her helmet.

    "Mathis," Jones said after a moment. "What do I have to do in order to join the Ducal Guard?"

    "We'll, I'll tell you once we're back safe and sound." Mathis responded as their Maxim transports showed up. "But let's just say that we're a bit more fanatical in our loyalty to Hull than most of the people you typically serve with."

    —
    —

    Pull back to grid Bravo-four." I commanded a mixed fireteam of 'Mechs and vehicles. "I've got infantry with TAG gear moving to paint those targets for you."

    "Copy that Delta Hotel, pulling back to grid Bravo-Four." The fireteam leader responded while I turned my attention to the other areas where we were battling the 5th Galedon Regular.

    "Delta Hotel, we are Oscar-Mike to LZ." Mathis voice echoed in my ears.

    "That's good to hear, we're just waiting on the factory teams to finish up and then we're lifting off." I replied.

    —
    —

    "Did you think I would just allow you to leave?" Tai-Sho Samsonov said into my ears.

    "Yeah, I kinda figured you would." I replied as I climbed into my Warhammer. "I figured you'd be more interested in battling it out for the throne on Luthien."

    "How can I seek said throne if I have not made the effort to avenge the Coordinators death?" Samsonov replied as his Atlas made its presence on the battlefield known.

    "Why is it always an Atlas?" I muttered angrily under my breath. "I'm really sick of fighting assault 'Mechs with my Warhammer."

    "Then upgrade already!" Natasha and Mathis said simultaneously.

    "I said that on the command circuit, didn't I?" I asked sheepishly.

    "Yessir, and if you had upgraded to an assault 'Mech already I wouldn't keep riding you like this." Mathis said. "Now go stonewall this guy while we finish loading up the gear so we can leave."

    "Slave drivers." I said as I rolled my 'Mech forward to meet Samsonov.

    Edging into the maximum range of my ERPPCs, I snapped off twin bolts of man made lightning towards the lumbering assault Mech facing me and watched as they carved away armor on the center torso. Twitching my controls, I spun my torso around to avoid the flurry of LRMs that were sent my way and crouched to avoid the Gauss rifle that was sent along with it.

    "Someone has a fancy 'Mech." I muttered to myself as I double checked to make sure that my comms channels were closed this time. "Now let's work on giving you some knee surgery." I began to walk backwards and alternate my PPC fire into the torso and legs of the Mech that was attempting to break me into two pieces.

    "TAG, you're it." I said after a moment when I painted Samsonov's Mech. Watching with glee as the Arrow IV missiles from my artillery impacted the enemy assault Mech and caused it to first stumble, and then fall to the ground as its reactor stopped functioning due to a breach.

    "Samsonov, I hope you're able to make it out of here, it'll be interesting to see what you do next." I said over the open channel as we loaded up our loot and got ready to leave New Samarkand. "Enjoy fighting for being Coordinator now." I said with a cruel twist to my voice.

    I moved my Warhammer back to its bay and powered it down before moving over to assist in loading everything that we had stolen up and helping lash things down for liftoff.




    Soul, December 10th, 3031

    "I want this place stripped down to the bedrock." Godbolt ordered as they entered the complex. "And below it if there's anything down there." She looked around. "And make sure to find an inventory list, I know we have the data we ripped from Comstar that led us to this place, but we need verification."

    "Yes Ma'am." A staff officer responded. "Moving to locate it now."

    "We need to triple check and make sure that we're secure before we take anything out of the facility, and have some of our tech specialists make sure that there's no self destruct that may be triggered, if I get buried here I swear to God that I will come back in my Alacorn and fire you out of the Gauss Rifles." Godbolt threatened with a hint of a smile. "And speed it up, we're on a time crunch here."
     
  • Threadmarks
    • Chapter One Hundred and Thirty-Seven: The Rules of Engagement
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    • MarkWarrior

    MarkWarrior

    Well-known member
    Chapter One Hundred and Thirty-Seven: The Rules of Engagement
    New Avalon, January 15th, 3032

    “Theodore Kurita,” Hanse Davion greeted. “I see that you and your family have made the trip to New Avalon safely.”

    “Your dog Hull has no honor.” Theodore spat on the ground. “He denied me every opportunity to redeem my own honor and establish my son as coordinator.”

    “Hull is something we can discuss later.” Hanse said with a touch of a fox-like grin on his face. “For now, let’s get you and your family settled into their quarters in the Davion Palace.”

    “I will obey as a captive and hostage, but I will never be your puppet.” Theodore replied. “My father was murdered by your dog’s bitch Kerensky and not even given the illusion of a fair fight.”

    “I am not my brother Ian.” Hanse finally said after a moment. “I believe war is not an honorable thing. Instead, it’s something that we must strive to avoid, but, when we must engage in war, then we must crush the enemy so totally that there is not a chance that they are able to fight back.” Hanse then glanced backwards. “Lady Jasmine, Lady Tomoe, I hope the trip here was pleasant.”

    “It was satisfactory.” Jasmine Kurita replied, answering for both herself and her daughter in law. “Hull, while rough in his handling of matters of war, has a delicate touch when it comes to matters such as this.”

    “I am glad to hear of it.” Hanse responded. “My lovely wife Dana has been arranging the quarters for you and your family. I hope that you find them to your liking.”

    “I am certain that our exile will be one of comfort.” Theodore responded harshly. “That or torture in order to find the secrets that I may hold.”

    “We’re not concerned with your secrets.” Hanse chuckled. “According to everything I have seen recently Hull just demolished the ISF headquarters on New Samarkand, and even if they didn’t manage to pull all of the data stored there we shall be fine.” Hanse grinned. “The Combine is on the chopping board Theodore, and this may be your very last chance to try and save a piece of it.”





    Tharkad, February 15th, 3032

    “It is with great pleasure that I announce the recapture of every single world that the Combine has taken from us over the entirety of the Succession Wars!” Katrina said before the gathered press in front of her. “We have accomplished something that has not been accomplished in the history of the Commonwealth before, and have proven that not only is our military capable, but that we are able to do our part in this Alliance.”

    The assembled nobles began to clap and cheer before Katrina waved them down. “We have accomplished a great victory, but we still have much work to do, I am moving garrison forces forward in order to free up our logistics, and with our allies the Wolf Confederation and the Federated Suns pressing in on the Draconis Combine we will continue our advance until we are not able to move forward anymore.”

    “Do you have any comments on the Sack of Luthien?” A reporter asked.

    “I was pleasantly shocked to find that the leadership of the Combine had been removed at the same time that we were in some critical moments of our campaign.” Katrina said diplomatically. “And Duke Hull of Kentares has been a close friend of the Steiners for many years, and so we celebrated greatly when we heard of the victory that he had achieved.”

    “What is your stance on Hull burning down areas on New Samarkand?” Another reporter asked.

    “Every stellar nation should be grateful that the tool of tyrants has been burned to the ground.” Katrina said firmly. “The ISF has been a thorn in the side of every nation to some extent for hundreds of years, and while I am not naive enough to believe that the threat is totally ended, the ISF has been brought to the lowest point it has ever been in history.”


    “What about the rumors of First Prince Hanse Davion holding the Coordinators family hostage on New Avalon?”

    “Hanse Davion is not called “The Fox” for nothing.” She smiled mysteriously. “We’ll just have to wait and see what happens.”

    “Why did we hire Davion Mercenaries to assist in OPERATION BLITZKRIEG?”

    “Because they are our allies, and the Marksman have an excellent reputation for accomplishing nigh impossible tasks.” She gestures to the world of Kessel highlighted in Steiner Blue on the hologram. “This was proven by the 1st Marksman not only taking Kessel from two regiments of veterans, but also managing to hold it against reinforcements from the 18th Dieron Regulars and another battlemech regiment.”

    “Now, if you’ll direct any further questions to the press department,” Katrina said. “I have some other duties and responsibilities to handle.”




    Kentares IV, May 31st, 3032

    “We’re back home.” I told Natasha as we finally jumped into the Kentares IV system. “After nearly a year of combat and making sure that the Combine won’t be able to hit us back we’re finally home.”

    “Indeed we are.” Natasha responded while wrapped in my arms. “Now all that is left is to unload our equipment and maybe see what the future has in store.” She smirked at me. “And I may have something to show you.”

    “Let’s make sure that we get everything unloaded first, and Dunham will need all of the data that we pulled from the ISF HQ.” I said as we boosted towards the planet that we called home.

    —
    —

    June 10th, 3032

    “This was supposed to be ready six months ago,” Natasha said with a smirk as she led my blindfolded self around. “But we were a little busy back then.”

    “Is it a cheesecake?” I asked. “You know that my weakness is cheesecake.”

    “No, keep guessing,” Natasha laughed. “Or you can wait until we get there.”

    “I’ll wait.” I replied. “I’ll wait.”

    We continued walking and I remained almost literally in the dark until we finally reached the area that Natasha had set apart for this.

    “Now, behold what an excellent wife I am.” Natasha said proudly as she ripped my blindfold off, revealing a new ‘Mech. “This is a very experimental machine that took both Dr. Rogers and MacAlister working together for six months to refit and put together.”

    “It looks like a slightly taller Warhammer.” I said after examining it for a moment. “It’s not one of my refits, because I went with an all energy loadout last time.” I walked around the two story machine and tried to figure everything out.

    “It’s a Warhammer IIC.” Natasha took pity on me. “We had to use an experimental XXL engine like the one that they developed for Melissa’s Alacorn in order to get the movement profile that you enjoy, and also traded NAIS for some triple strength myomers.” She patted the machine's foot. “This baby has a maximum speed of 86.4 kilometers per hour before you use the TSM and has 5 jump jets to assist it in mobility. You now are able to take a bit more damage because you have 15 tons of standard armor and are able to hit something at virtually every single range on the battlefield.”

    “Thank you for this.” I said as I pulled Natasha in for a kiss. “Any other surprises I should know about?”

    “We’ll just have to wait and see.” She replied as she walked away. “You coming with?” She called out over her shoulder.

    –
    –
    June 15th, 3032

    “We need to put an endo steel factory in orbit over Markesan before we can move the extra Gladiator lines over there.” I said to Watson. “I assume we have the teams ready for putting some new factories in place?”

    “I’ll get the orbital team on it.” He replied as he flipped through the inventory of what we had taken from Luthien, New Samarkand, and Soul. “You want the Grand Dragon factories on Kentares IV, correct?” He asked.

    “Yes, I was going to have the stock Dragon lines be moved to Robinson, and the Charger as well.” I said, “I want the Schrek and Lancelot lines moved to Argyle, and I want to sell the Quickdraw line to the Davions, we’re going to be producing enough stuff as is.”

    “What about the loot from Soul?” He asked as he looked through the data from there. “What do you plan on doing with that?”

    “I plan on trying to see something, there were a couple of Battlemasters mixed in with the Crocketts that were in storage there, and the techs found a couple of manufacturing lines there.”

    “Going to have R&D go over stuff?” Watson asked.

    “When we go through everything I’ll let you know.” I told him. “For now, we’re going to have to stick with what we have though.”

    “I’ll get to work on moving around the teams and getting everything set up, should take a year or more to get everything production ready.” Watson replied. “I take it you want to create more endo steel facilities in orbit of every world that we have manufacturing on?”

    “Yes, the costs are negligible compared to the benefits overall when it comes to production.” I replied. “It allows us to make machines like the Gladiator or Von Rohrs able to do more than comparable machines.”

    “It’ll take at least a decade to get that done in orbit on every world.” He said as he flipped through the data. “But we can get at least the ones that will feed the Gladiator lines on Markesan set up within a year.”


    It’s okay if it takes time.” I told the man. “We’ve got a lot of work ahead of us anyway.”

    –
    –

    June 25th, 3032

    “We brought back around sixty or so Crocketts from Soul.” I told Godbolt and Packer. “My plan is to use them to fill in some of the gaps that we have where we lack assault ‘mechs.”

    “You may want to wait until the Marksman units get back.” Sheppard chimed in. “They’re going to need some replacement machines as well.”

    “We’ll take care of it,” I said with a shrug. “Given what we pulled off, I’m okay with bumping some people back down the list in order for us to get our units replenished.”

    “I am sure Hanse will sign off on it.” Natasha said from behind my right shoulder. “We are still finishing the Excaliburs and Triumph class dropships that we stole from Luthien.”

    “I’m gifting half of those to the 3rd Kentares Guard.” I said, “We have plenty of lift for the other units, but we’re still lacking lift for the 3rd Kentares aside from the Sting dropships that we built for them.

    “We can organize that later.” I said, “Right now we need to focus on the rebuild priority.”

    “Packer gets first priority for now, and then Godbolt, and we’ll figure out the Marksman when they get back to Kentares.”

    “So, most of my losses were in ‘mechs…”

    Author's Note: I'm going to post the new Hull Warhammer in the informational later, and I'll update the Sharpshooter page in a bit, there's a lot to sort through.
     
  • Threadmarks
    • Chapter One Hundred and Thirty-Eight: Taking Great Care
  • Threadmarks
    • MarkWarrior

    MarkWarrior

    Well-known member
    Chapter One Hundred and Thirty-Eight: Taking Great Care
    Kentares IV, July 10th, 3032

    "We're going to have to redeploy with one of our units soon." I told Natasha. "We get a small pass because of the sheer amount of damage that we caused, but we're going to be expected to move in and assist the rest of the Draconis March in their advances."

    "The 3rd Kentares only have a couple of 'Mech battalions though." Natasha said as she consulted her slate for our force estimates. "We would have to deploy with the Ducal Guard again to have a proper invasion force."

    "I know." I said with a shrug. "But we need to get back out there, even if it's only to serve as reinforcements for a force that has gotten bogged down, plus we can add in some of the least damaged parts of the other guard units, and the conventional forces will be able to do their jobs anyhow."

    "I agree, but we may want to bring some faster machines with us. There is a major manufacturing center on Al Na'ir and we may get chewed up by hovercraft if we are not careful." Natasha observed before looking down at the map in front of us once again. "Where are the current Draconis March Forces?" Natasha asked me, knowing that I had intelligence on the current movements.

    "Hanse pushed forces up all across the border, but the place that's been giving friendly forces the most trouble is Al Na'ir." I pointed to the system in question. "There are two battlemech regiments there, and the militia units are putting up a fierce fight as well."

    "Which two units are there?" She asked, leaning over the map table.

    "The 8th and 15th Dieron Regulars." I said as I consulted my intel briefs. "The 15th have a larger amount of Assault 'mechs than the rebuilt 5th Avalon Hussars expected, and the advance had bogged down according to the last reports."

    "How long until David is supposed to be back on Kentares?" Natasha asked. "I thought he was supposed to make landfall in a couple of days."

    "He's supposed to be back on the ground by the 15th." I responded with a small smile. "You want him in with the 3rd Kentares and the Ducal Guard?" I asked.

    "Yes," Natasha stated curtly. "He needs to prove himself capable in front of our troops or he will never be able to move up and take your place as he is supposed to."

    "We'll load him up as soon as he gets here." I responded. "His Crockett should be a solid 'mech to bring anyway."

    "Indeed," Natasha replied with a grin. "I shall prep the Ducal Guard while you brief the 3rd Kentares Guard."

    "I'll get right on it," I replied. "This is a way to test my new 'mech at least."

    "I would consult with Dr. Rogers and McAllister before I went out in the new 'mech." Natasha told me bluntly. "I am uncertain as to how it will respond, or what the new weakpoints that might be present, I merely gave them the basics of what you would like, and they did the remainder."

    "I'll clear things up with Mac and Dr. Rogers before we deploy." I replied. "I'm assuming that there's more to it than there was to my WHM-6Rk."

    "I would not know." Natasha shrugged with a grin. "While I am good at doing what the technicians tell me, I am not a Fusion Engine expert."

    "At least you're able to help out with repairs now." I replied. "Mithril certainly helps out with the heavy lifting though."

    "True, now let us go prepare for war once again." She said as she stalked out with the walk of a predator.

    "Looks like we're back to it once again." I said to myself as I looked at the map table. "Let's finish this, before we get hammered in the back from some remnants of the RWR or something."




    Kentares IV, July 15th, 3032

    "Lieutenant Hull-Kerensky, I have your orders here." A Fireteam Corporal saluted the uniformed young nobleman as he exited the Pueblo class Dropship that he had been on. "Here sir." He passed the folder containing said orders to the 19 year old.

    "I'm assigned as XO to a mixed fireteam with the 3rd Kentares Guard." David muttered to himself as he read over the documents. "The CO of the Battalion is Katheryn Sandoval, and I'm attached to the Command Fireteam."

    "You're supposed to report by the end of the day sir." The Corporal said as he continued walking behind the Lieutenant. "The 3rd Kentares is shipping out by the end of the week."

    "I'll get my 'Mech moved over in an hour and report by the time listed." David assured the young noncom. "I'm sure you have other duties to take care of."

    "Actually sir, I've been assigned as the introduction between you and the rest of the fireteam. Fireteam Corporal Travis Perez at your service. I'm a Crab pilot and will be your battle buddy for the rest of the time that you're assigned to us." The Corporal replied with a smile on his face. "But, you can call me Scooter, it's my callsign and what everyone calls me anyway."

    "Okay?" David Hull responded with a questioning look on his face. Imitating the eyebrow raise that he had seen his father so many times. "Why are you called Scooter?"

    "On account of the fact that I once locked up the treads on our training Scorpion and we scooted off down the side of a mountain." The young noncom sheepishly rubbed the back of his head. "Later we found out that maintenance had forgotten to do some stuff, but I was driving and the name stuck."

    "Well, I don't have a callsign yet, but I'm sure it'll be just as embarrassing." David replied with a chuckle. "And, I will be getting the full story later."

    "Fair enough," Scooter replied with a shrug, "Let's get everything squared away so we can get some training done before deployment. We've got a decent veteran core, and we're deploying with the Ducal Guard so even though most of us are a little green I think we'll be okay."

    "Any clue on where we're going to be deploying?" David asked as he combed into the truck that Scooter gestured to. "I'd like to get some research done if nothing else, can't be too sure of what the actually situation is until we're there, but you can still get data on the topography and any areas of critical importance."

    "We're deploying to assist the 5th Avalon Hussars on Al Na'ir." Scooter replied as he helped David throw his away bags into the back of the truck. "From what I know, there's two regiments of the Dieron Regulars on the planet, and they've got plenty of backup due to a major hovercraft industrial center on the planet. The Militia are outfitted with enough Hovercraft to make our faster units green with envy, and they're hard hitting too. Our latest reports were that the 5th Avalon Hussars were pinned down to their LZ and unable to make any major advances due to the hit and run tactics of the Militia combined with the assault 'Mechs of the 15th Dieron Regulars."

    "Damn." David shook his head at the thought. "We bringing enough forces to force them to back off and let us advance?"

    "The Duke just cut us off of the leash as far as some of the truly advanced tech is concerned." The Corporal replied. "We're being augmented by an entire Battalion of the advanced Toros from the 1st Kentares Guard, along with some of the Omnimechs that Kerensky brought back with her."

    "That'll have to be enough combined with the Arrow IV systems and cluster munitions." David said. "We're going to want to take looks at the latest maps, if we can figured out where to deploy our arty we might be able to nail the hovercraft in order to force a close range engagement."

    "That's above my pay grade sir." Scooter said as he pulled up to the Barracks. "Now we need to get you sorted and introduced to the rest of the fireteam and the company that we're a part of as a whole."

    "Yay." David weakly pumped his fist. "Introductions are my favorite, not. "

    "Just get in there." Scooter replied. "I've got to go pick up a couple of other latecomers who were on leave."

    "Fine, but when you get back, remember to bury me at the family farm." David replied deadpan. "It's a big farm, you can't miss it."

    "I've been on the Ducal Estate sir." Scooter replied. "And that's not just a farm, that's the whole shebang."

    "Just get going." David grabbed his bags, sling them over his shoulder and patted the side of the truck a couple of times, signaling that it was alright for him to move on. "Now I get to introduce myself… What fun."




    July 20th, 3032

    "We're loaded up and ready to roll." General Robert Frost told me. "I've got operational plans in place, and as soon as we get our supplies loaded up we can move to Al Na'ir."

    "We just topped off the Ducal Guard's load of supplies." Natasha weighed in, " and we are at around 85% force readiness after the campaigns that we were on."

    "Then we'll hit with around 70% of an RCT and a regiment plus a battalion of vehicles?" Frost asked as a clarification question.

    "That's right." I finally spoke up. "We hammer the interior of the main Drac areas, but we're a little on the weak side until we can get all of the wounded treated and the machines replaced."

    "I hope it's enough sir." Frost turned to me, "because we're going to have a hell of a fight on our hands."

    "We'll have to make it enough Frost." I replied with a shake of my head. "Both of our Marksman units are working for the Lyrans right now, and the 1st and 2nd Kentares are in need of some R&R. We're lucky that the Toro's and the pilots of them were among the least damaged out of the 1st Kentares."

    "I know sir, but we can't wait another month in order to get more people rotated into my unit?" Frost asked. "I've got a lot of green in my unit sir, and while they're all good kids I'm worried that they might not be ready for this kind of fight."

    "I understand your concern, Frost." I replied with a sad expression on my face. "But this is the cold calculus of war, if we want them to not be green troops anymore than they have to be blooded, and considering the tech difference, they'll have the best advantages that we can give them."

    "You sure you're not simply wasting lives sir?" Frost asked. "Everyone knows that the 1st Kentares is the priority unit."

    "I won't deny that." I replied. "The 1st Kentares has the greatest concentration of people that I've directly served with over the last 30 years than the other unit. But, my son is in your unit, if I really intended to just feed y'all into a meat grinder then I wouldn't be entrusting my son to you would I?"

    "We'll just have to wait and see sir," Frost replied with a chilling expression on his face. "

    "Frost, if you have an issue with me then tell me now before we get out in the field." I said with a raised eyebrow.

    "There's no issue sir." Frost said after a moment. "We'll see what happens when we get onto the field."

    I met Natasha's eyes and her body language basically said what I was feeling.

    "You're dismissed Frost." I said, "Go rest up before liftoff tomorrow."

    "He is going to be a problem." Natasha said after General Frost had left. "He has avoided deployment since we made Kentares IV our home." She said as she reviewed Frost's CSV. "He managed to get promoted because he was an excellent logistician, but we haven't had to test his skills in real combat since he was a junior officer."

    "That's what I get for signing off on the promotion recommendations without looking over them in their entirety." I muttered to Natasha and myself. "Can you have Dunham double check his XO and make sure that they're competent? If they're not then we could run into some major issues if we're not extremely careful here.

    "How is it that this is more complicated than attacking Luthien and New Samarkand?" Natasha asked. "We did not seem to have these problems with Packer and Godbolt."

    "People," I replied with a shrug. "Packer and Godbolt are very good at what they do, we had to hit average personnel, and normal problems eventually." I chuckled to myself. "I should tell you about some of the old WWII stories about Marine and Army generals having issues when they were against the Japanese."

    "Maybe later," Natasha replied. "We need to get some alternate plans ready if we need to relieve Frost of command."

    "I'll have Mathis and Dunham coordinate with us on that." I replied. "Two days should be plenty of time to get everything sorted."

    "Are we going to pay David a visit?" Natasha asked, "I was hoping that we could at least attempt it."

    "Let's let him settle in with his new unit." I replied. "This is his first deployment, and the last thing he needs is for us to show up and remind everyone of whose son he is."

    Author’s note: wrote most of this on my phone. So may be some stuff that needs to be cleaned up.
     
  • Threadmarks
    • Natasha’s Nightstar
  • Extras
    • MarkWarrior

    MarkWarrior

    Well-known member
    Nightstar NSR-9M

    Mass: 95 tons
    Chassis: Standard Biped
    Power Plant: 380 XL(Clan)
    Cruising Speed: 43.2 kph
    Maximum Speed: 64.8 kph
    Jump Jets: None
    Jump Capacity: 0 meters
    Armor: Ferro-Fibrous
    Armament:
    3 ER Medium Laser
    1 ER PPC
    2 Gauss Rifle
    3 ER Small Laser
    Manufacturer: Unknown
    Primary Factory: Unknown
    Communication System: Unknown
    Targeting & Tracking System: Unknown
    Introduction Year: 3018
    Tech Rating/Availability: F/X-X-E-D
    Cost: 29,498,852 C-bills

    Type: Nightstar
    Technology Base: Clan (Standard)
    Tonnage: 95
    Battle Value: 3,011

    Equipment Mass
    Internal Structure 9.5
    Engine 380 XL 20.5
    Walking MP: 4
    Running MP: 6
    Jumping MP: 0
    Double Heat Sink 14 [28] 4
    Gyro 4
    Cockpit 3
    Armor Factor (Ferro) 293 15.5

    Internal Armor
    Structure Value
    Head 3 9
    Center Torso 30 50
    Center Torso (rear) 10
    R/L Torso 20 32
    R/L Torso (rear) 8
    R/L Arm 16 32
    R/L Leg 20 40


    Right Arm Actuators: Shoulder, Upper Arm, Lower Arm, Hand
    Left Arm Actuators: Shoulder, Upper Arm, Lower Arm, Hand

    Weapons
    and Ammo Location Critical Heat Tonnage
    ER Small Laser RT 1 2 0.5
    ER Medium Laser RT 1 5 1.0
    Gauss Rifle Ammo (16) RT 2 - 2.0
    ER PPC RT 2 15 6.0
    CASE LA 0 - 0.0
    Gauss Rifle LA 6 1 12.0
    ER Small Laser LT 1 2 0.5
    2 ER Medium Laser LT 2 5 2.0
    Gauss Rifle Ammo (16) LT 2 - 2.0
    ER Small Laser HD 1 2 0.5
    2 CASE RA 0 - 0.0
    Gauss Rifle RA 6 1 12.0
     
  • Extras
    • Swordsman Rebuild
  • Extras
    • MarkWarrior

    MarkWarrior

    Well-known member
    Swordsman Mek
    Mass: 40 tons
    Chassis: Endo Steel Biped
    Power Plant: 200 Fusion
    Cruising Speed: 54 kph
    Maximum Speed: 86.4 kph
    Armor: Standard
    Armament:
    2 Medium Laser
    1 AC/5
    1 LRM 5
    Communication System: Unknown
    Targeting & Tracking System: Unknown
    Introduction Year: 3022
    Tech Rating/Availability: E/X-X-E-D
    Cost: 3,066,327 C-bills

    Type: Swordsman
    Technology Base: Inner Sphere (Standard)
    Tonnage: 40
    Battle Value: 1,026


    Equipment Mass
    Internal Structure Endo Steel 2
    Engine 200 Fusion 8.5
    Walking MP: 5
    Running MP: 8
    Jumping MP: 3
    Double Heat Sink: 10 [20] 0
    Gyro: 2
    Cockpit: 3
    Armor Factor: 136 8.5


    Internal
    Structure    		 Armor
    Value
    Head 3 9
    Center Torso 12 18
    Center Torso (rear) 5
    R/L Torso 10 16
    R/L Torso (rear) 4
    R/L Arm 6 12
    R/L Leg 10 20


    Weapons
    and Ammo     		Location Critical Tonnage
    Jump Jet CT 1 0.5
    LRM 5 Ammo (24) RT 1 1
    Jump Jet RT 1 0.5
    LRM 5 RT 1 2
    CASE RT 1 0.5
    Double Heat Sink RT 3 1
    AC/5 Ammo (20) RT 1 1
    Medium Laser LA 1 1
    Jump Jet LT 1 0.5
    Double Heat Sink LT 3 1
    AC/5 LT 4 8
    Medium Laser RA 1 1
     
  • Extras
    • Gladiator Rebuild
  • Extras
    • MarkWarrior

    MarkWarrior

    Well-known member
    Tech Rating/Availability: E/X-X-E-D
    Cost: 5,370,957 C-bills

    Type: Gladiator
    Technology Base: Inner Sphere (Standard)
    Tonnage: 55
    Battle Value: 1,525


    Equipment Mass
    Internal Structure Endo Steel 3
    Engine 275 Fusion 15.5
    Walking MP: 5
    Running MP: 8
    Jumping MP: 5
    Double Heat Sink: 13 [26] 3
    Gyro: 3
    Cockpit: 3
    Armor Factor: 168 10.5


    Internal
    Structure    		 Armor
    Value
    Head 3 9
    Center Torso 18 25
    Center Torso (rear) 8
    R/L Torso 13 19
    R/L Torso (rear) 5
    R/L Arm 9 16
    R/L Leg 13 23


    Weapons
    and Ammo     		Location Critical Tonnage
    Jump Jet CT 1 0.5
    2 Jump Jet RT 2 1
    CASE RT 1 0.5
    Double Heat Sink RT 3 1
    SRM 6 Ammo (15) RT 1 1
    2 Medium Laser LA 2 2
    2 Jump Jet LT 2 1
    Double Heat Sink LT 3 1
    Medium Laser HD 1 1
    SRM 6 RA 2 3
    PPC RA 3 7
     
  • Extras
    • Von Rohrs (Hebis) VON 4RH-6M refit
  • Extras
    • MarkWarrior

    MarkWarrior

    Well-known member
    Von Rohrs (Hebis) VON 4RH-6M
    Mass: 65 tons
    Chassis: Endo Steel Biped
    Power Plant: 260 Fusion
    Cruising Speed: 43.2 kph
    Maximum Speed: 64.8 kph
    Armor: Standard
    Armament:
    1 ER PPC
    5 Medium Laser
    1 LRM 15
    1 SRM 6
    2 Flamer
    Communication System: Unknown
    Targeting & Tracking System: Unknown
    Introduction Year: 3050
    Tech Rating/Availability: E/X-X-E-D
    Cost: 6,383,960 C-bills

    Type: Von Rohrs (Hebis)
    Technology Base: Inner Sphere (Standard)
    Tonnage: 65
    Battle Value: 1,605


    Equipment Mass
    Internal Structure Endo Steel 3.5
    Engine 260 Fusion 13.5
    Walking MP: 4
    Running MP: 6
    Jumping MP: 0
    Double Heat Sink: 11 [22] 1
    Gyro: 3
    Cockpit: 3
    Armor Factor: 208 13


    Internal
    Structure    		 Armor
    Value
    Head 3 9
    Center Torso 21 31
    Center Torso (rear) 10
    R/L Torso 15 23
    R/L Torso (rear) 7
    R/L Arm 10 19
    R/L Leg 15 30


    Weapons
    and Ammo     		Location Critical Tonnage
    2 Medium Laser CT 2 2
    Medium Laser RT 1 1
    CASE RT 1 0.5
    LRM 15 RT 3 7
    LRM 15 Ammo (16) RT 2 2
    2 Flamer LA 2 2
    CASE LT 1 0.5
    SRM 6 LT 2 3
    Double Heat Sink LT 3 1
    SRM 6 Ammo (15) LT 1 1
    Medium Laser HD 1 1
    Medium Laser RA 1 1
    ER PPC RA 3 7
     
  • Extras
    • Toro TR-A-6MC Toro Clantech refit
  • Extras
    • MarkWarrior

    MarkWarrior

    Well-known member
    Toro TR-A-6MC
    Base Tech Level    : Standard Mixed (Base IS)


    Level Era
    Experimental -
    Advanced 3020
    Standard 3035
    Tech Rating: F/X-X-E-E

    Weight: 35 tons
    BV: 1,294
    Cost: 3,531,330 C-bills
    Source: TRO 3075
    Role: Missile Boat

    Movement: 6/9
    Engine: 210 Fusion
    Double Heat Sinks: 10 [20]
    Gyro: Standard Gyro

    Internal: 58 (Endo-Steel)
    Armor: 119/119 (Ferro-Fibrous)


    Internal Armor
    Head 3 9
    Center Torso 11 17
    Center Torso (rear) 5
    Right Torso 8 12
    Right Torso (rear) 4
    Left Torso 8 12
    Left Torso (rear) 4
    Right Arm 6 12
    Left Arm 6 12
    Right Leg 8 16
    Left Leg 8 16



    Weapons Loc Heat
    Large Pulse Laser (Clan) LA 10
    LRM 5 (Clan) RT 2
    ER Medium Laser (Clan) LT 5
    SRM 4 (Clan) RT 3



    Ammo Loc Shots
    LRM 5 Ammo RT 24
    SRM 4 Ammo RT 25



    Equipment Loc
    CASE (Clan)
    CASE (Clan)
    CASE RT
     
  • Extras
    • Melissa Steiner’s Personal Alacorn
  • Extras
    • MarkWarrior

    MarkWarrior

    Well-known member
    Alacorn Heavy Tank Mk X
    Mass: 95 tons
    Movement Type: Tracked
    Power Plant: 285 XXL
    Cruising Speed: 32.4 kph
    Maximum Speed: 54 kph
    Armor: Ferro-Fibrous
    Armament:
    2 ER Medium Laser
    2 Machine Gun
    3 Gauss Rifle
    Communication System: Unknown
    Targeting & Tracking System: Unknown
    Introduction Year: 3030
    Tech Rating/Availability: F/X-X-F*-F
    Cost: 74,032,725 C-bills

    Type: Alacorn Heavy Tank
    Technology Base: Mixed (Experimental)
    Tonnage: 95
    Battle Value: 2,639


    Equipment Mass
    Internal Structure 9.5
    Engine 285 XXL 8.5
    Cruising MP: 3
    Flanking MP: 5
    Heat Sinks: 10 0
    Control Equipment: 5
    Power Amplifier: 0
    Turret: 4
    Armor Factor (Ferro): 268 14


    Internal
    Structure     		Armor
    Value
    Front 10 67
    R/L Side 10/10 53/53
    Rear 10 42
    Turret 10 53


    Weapons
    and Ammo     		Location Critical Tonnage
    Machine Gun Front 1 0.25
    Machine Gun Right 1 0.25
    2 ER Medium Laser Turret 2 2
    3 Gauss Rifle Turret 18 36
    Half Machine Gun Ammo (100) Body 1 0.5
    CASE Body 0 0
    Gauss Rifle Ammo (120) Body 15 15
     
  • Extras
    • Hull’s new Warhammer
  • Extras
    • MarkWarrior

    MarkWarrior

    Well-known member
    Warhammer IIC Hull
    Mass: 80 tons
    Chassis: Endo Steel Biped
    Power Plant: 400 XXL
    Cruising Speed: 54 kph
    Maximum Speed: 86.4 kph
    Armor: Standard
    Armament:
    4 ER Medium Laser
    2 ER PPC
    1 Anti-Missile System
    1 Streak SRM 6
    Communication System: Unknown
    Targeting & Tracking System: Unknown
    Introduction Year: 3031
    Tech Rating/Availability: F/X-X-F*-F
    Cost: 88,930,200 C-bills

    Type: Warhammer IIC
    Technology Base: Mixed (Experimental)
    Tonnage: 80
    Battle Value: 3,528


    Equipment Mass
    Internal Structure Endo Steel 4
    Engine 400 XXL 17.5
    Walking MP: 5
    Running MP: 8
    Jumping MP: 5
    Double Heat Sink: 20 [40] 10
    Gyro: 4
    Cockpit: 3
    Armor Factor: 240 15


    Internal
    Structure    		 Armor
    Value
    Head 3 9
    Center Torso 25 35
    Center Torso (rear) 12
    R/L Torso 17 25
    R/L Torso (rear) 9
    R/L Arm 13 25
    R/L Leg 17 33


    Weapons
    and Ammo     		Location Critical Tonnage
    2 Jump Jet LL 2 2
    Jump Jet CT 1 1
    Triple Strength Myomer CT/RA/LA 1/3/2 0
    Anti-Missile System RT 1 0.5
    Anti-Missile System Ammo (24) RT 1 1
    ER Medium Laser RT 1 1
    Streak SRM 6 RT 2 3
    Double Heat Sink RT 2 1
    Streak SRM 6 Ammo (15) RT 1 1
    2 Triple Strength Myomer CT/RA/LA 1/3/2 0
    ER PPC LA 2 6
    2 ER Medium Laser LT 2 2
    3 Double Heat Sink LT 6 3
    2 Jump Jet RL 2 2
    ER Medium Laser HD 1 1
    3 Triple Strength Myomer CT/RA/LA 1/3/2 0
    ER PPC RA 2 6
     
  • Extras
    • Blasterbot

    Blasterbot

    Well-known member
    that Night star is a sexy beast. no way it wasn't going to be but damn girl.

    the swordsman is kinda meh but as a garrison unit it is pretty solid. the AC 5 is under powered but if you want a cheap garrison medium with an ability to contribute at long range and some closer range too it is there and cheap. there is something to be said for the ability to fill in militia and trainer mechs.

    Gladiator is a good 55 tonner but a bit pricey for what it is I think. it can however sink it's alpha so go forth, hold down all the buttons, and keep them out of the PPC's min range. it can take any 55 and 60 tonner that tries to go 5/8 in the inner sphere but i think paying enough for a high end heavy or low end assault is a bit much.

    that Van Rohrs is a bit ridiculous but i love it anyways. long range is good and once the med lasers come into play good night. the 2 flamers are just a middle finger to the infantry. it is just a better thud and that is wonderful.

    the only thing I would contest with the Toro is calling it a missile boat. it is a good brawler setup with a bit to contribute at LRM range. bit of an odd ball design but I like it as a light mech. bit pricey but fun for what it does.

    the Alacorn is an alacorn. 3 guass enough said.

    Hull's ride is in a bit of an odd place for me. I see what the designer's went for here. he is over cooling at range and in close he can be fine with just dropping 1 ERPPC from the alpha. tacking the gargoyle's speed profile and adding jumps on top of it is an odd choice though. prolly would have gone for an either or approach there. it is an absolutely ridiculous overengineered Warhammer. it did drop all ability to anti infantry but it is a beast of an assault mech and a 5/8/5 mover on top of it.

    like the designs overall though thanks for posting them.
     
    MarkWarrior

    MarkWarrior

    Well-known member
    Blasterbot said:
    that Night star is a sexy beast. no way it wasn't going to be but damn girl.

    the swordsman is kinda meh but as a garrison unit it is pretty solid. the AC 5 is under powered but if you want a cheap garrison medium with an ability to contribute at long range and some closer range too it is there and cheap. there is something to be said for the ability to fill in militia and trainer mechs.

    Gladiator is a good 55 tonner but a bit pricey for what it is I think. it can however sink it's alpha so go forth, hold down all the buttons, and keep them out of the PPC's min range. it can take any 55 and 60 tonner that tries to go 5/8 in the inner sphere but i think paying enough for a high end heavy or low end assault is a bit much.

    that Van Rohrs is a bit ridiculous but i love it anyways. long range is good and once the med lasers come into play good night. the 2 flamers are just a middle finger to the infantry. it is just a better thud and that is wonderful.

    the only thing I would contest with the Toro is calling it a missile boat. it is a good brawler setup with a bit to contribute at LRM range. bit of an odd ball design but I like it as a light mech. bit pricey but fun for what it does.

    the Alacorn is an alacorn. 3 guass enough said.

    Hull's ride is in a bit of an odd place for me. I see what the designer's went for here. he is over cooling at range and in close he can be fine with just dropping 1 ERPPC from the alpha. tacking the gargoyle's speed profile and adding jumps on top of it is an odd choice though. prolly would have gone for an either or approach there. it is an absolutely ridiculous overengineered Warhammer. it did drop all ability to anti infantry but it is a beast of an assault mech and a 5/8/5 mover on top of it.

    like the designs overall though thanks for posting them.
    Click to expand...
    Yep! These designs are what Sharpshooter is manufacturing and selling for the most part. There’s some other designs they’re building and selling too, and I’ll have to go grab those. The Warhammer is designed to be a replacement for Hull’s WHM-6Rk that had been refit with Clantech. The extra armor was called for after the sheer amount of assault Mechs he kept encountering.
    The Swordsman is a smaller Shadow Hawk, that’s the goal at least.
    The Von Rohrs is actually intended to be a better thud, and the Gladiator was me probably having a touch too much fun.

    And the Toro, my favorite of the designs. The Large Pulse Laser is Clantech and has the same range as an IS PPC. This is the ultimate skirmisher, and can contest whatever tries to scout.
     
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