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> Operation IX: Cataclysm, The Deneb Kaitos Incident
Captain Charles Maxwell
post Sep 12 2006, 08:12 PM
Post #106



AEGIS DIVISION | Commander
Rank: General



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Group: Crayven Securities, Inc.
Posts: 108
Joined: 16-December 05
Member No.: 4





Elsewhere...

The near-yelp of actuators revving drew closer and closer, as two ultrawhite beams of light sliced through the hold's darkness, bobbing up and down wildly as the Battle Armor on which they were mounted charged along what was considered the 'ceiling' of the passageway. Thastus and I backed frantically away, pushing deeper and deeper into the hold, until our backs were against the sealed blast doors at the end of the chamber.

"That is a Fenrir," Thastus hissed, looking at me with a very real expression of panic on her face. "With mag boots."

"You don't say," I growled, pulling the Clanner behind a low stack of crates. The maneuver was useless - the Fenrir was capable of ripping through small pile of plastic boxes, which were anchored to the deck with a series of bracing straps. "I don't suppose you've got any explosives left."

"I do not."

"Then what do you suggest we do? Throw rocks at it?"

Thastus glowered at me.

"We do not have any rocks."

"Were that we should be so lucky," I muttered. The revving of the actuators slowed to a crawl, and the beams of light stabilized. It appeared that the Fenrir had begun searching for us.

"Stay here," I whispered, gesturing for Thastus to keep her head down.

"What are you going to do?"

I shook my head. "I'll think of something."

Quickly, I pushed off the deck, and floated to the ceiling of the corridor. Taking hold of an overhead conduit, I used the piping's mounts to pull myself along the passage, moving stealthily toward the Fenrir. Suddenly, the giant Battle Armor jerked its 'head' upward, catching me dead in its floodlamps. I froze, startled, and began scrambling back toward the Clanner's position. The Fenrir lunged forward, thudding down the corridor as fast as its mag-booted feet could move it. I felt the corridor's rear bulkhead slam into my back, sending mortal terror rolling through me as I realized I had no where left to go. The Fenrir would be upon me in moments.

Suddenly, a massive explosion, originating from several decks away, tore through the ceiling directly above the Fenrir. A shower of debris rocketed through the zero gravity environment, raining down on the huge Battle Armor, which scrambled to get out of the way of the hail of debris. A blast door burst from the ceiling, rumbling down its track at a breakneck pace, bearing down on the Fenrir far faster than the Armor could escape its approach. The quadriped war machine was flattened beneath the massive ferrosteel wall, which settled into position with a final, satsifying crunch. Behind me, the largish bulkhead slid away, revealing the cavernous interior of the engine room and the final capacitor within. I exhaled sharply, realizing just how narrowly we had dodged the bullet.

Perhaps fortune does favor the foolish...

This post has been edited by General Charles E. Maxwell: Sep 12 2006, 08:25 PM


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Position : Commander, Aegis Division
Callsign : Eden
Current BattleMech : CPLT-C1 Catapult
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Captain Garrett Garland
post Sep 13 2006, 09:14 PM
Post #107



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Perhaps fortune does favor the bold…

With all of my strength, I pushed from the wall opposite the deck breach, catapulting myself into engineering, weapon ready. As I sailed head first into the capacitor room, I spun to my right, catching an unarmed tech standing on a catwalk in the chest with a beam from my laser rifle. His shirt erupted in flame and his blood boiled near the entrance of the beam, which quickly penetrated through his back. Spinning around so that I was now traveling feet first, I hit the capacitor’s housing with great force, bringing me to my knees against the giant machine. I provided covering fire for Jason as he executed a maneuver similar to mine, though a bit slower because he didn’t need to fear enemy fire. There was commotion all around the room as I pulled myself along the capacitor, looking for a weak spot where I could destroy it. Luckily the Star-League era munitions we had appropriated had timing devices, though there was only one left. Finally deciding on a location, I wedged the device into a fissure created by weapons fire moments earlier when another tech attempted to shoot me off the housing, his aim with a laser pistol not matching his aim with a welding torch. Jason quickly deterred him with a burst his direction, sending the tech fleeing into an adjoining sub-section. Checking to make sure no Blakists saw my act, I activated the charge, hoping that we’d be able to escape the blast in time.


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Position : Captain | LEGIONNAIRES
Callsign : Fox
Current BattleMech : Shadow Hawk [55 tons] [97.2 km/h max] [120 meter jump range]
Loadout : [1x Rotary AC5] [1x LRM-20] [1x Medium Pulse Laser] [2x Streak SRM-2] [AMS] [CASE] [ECM] [JumpJets]
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Captain Desparado
post Sep 14 2006, 04:57 PM
Post #108



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Ian and I floated past the lifeless bodies of a security team. Heavy amounts of fire had permeated the poor bastards, It was a mess getting through the death choked corridor. We worked our way past and continued on using my memorization of the map I had read earlier to guide us, and it worked for a while. A door we were supposed to take to transfer to another deck was locked down hard. A red light on the panel beside it glared at me angrily as if it could seen me glaring right back at it. This is a pressure door. There is no atmosphere beyond it. We will need to find another way. Dammit! We're lost and Garland is blowing the ship!My rampage on the exterior of the ship had restricted our options on the interior Ironic? Perhaps. Infuriating? Undoubtedly. I slammed my fist against the door, the sound reverberated through the corridors and alerted a second security team of Blakists with blinding lights on their weapons. Ian and I were against the door, trapped in a dead end corridor. We were screwed. DROP YOUR WEAPONS NOW! LETS SEE THOSE HANDS! I could do nothing. I looked over at Ian, her eyes lost their gleam and she nodded solemly at me before complying. The large rifle I was holding, I pushed towards the Blakist team. A thought crossed my mind to grab my Mag 90 and shoot the Rifle, overloading its energy containment devices and killing the security team but with their bright beams in my eyes, I'd be lucky to fire in the right direction. I too complied, my shoulders sinking and head drooping.

There was a muffled gagging sound and a few of the lights drew their intense light off of us.
What the hell? Wheres Mendoza? Small arms fire followed thus exclaimation and I grabbed my rifle, firing blindly into whatever fray was happening at the end of the corridor. The beams at the end of the Blakist's weapons stopped racing along the walls, signaling the end of combat but I could still hear a struggle going on so I stopped firing. I moved in front of Ian and kept my rifle pointed down the corridor. The struggle ended with a neaseating pop, I recognized the sound of man's neck being broken. Ian slowly crept past me and grabbed one of the rifles spinning around and pointed its light at the juncture at the end of the corridor. There was a man pushing bodies aside, he seemed familiar. I saw him in the breifing! Captain Desparado? I'm afraid we've never had a formal introduction, Alex Thorn. I belive I may know of a way off this ship.


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Position : Captain | LEGIONNAIRES
Callsign : Libra - 1
Current BattleMech : Sunder Leviathan
Loadout : 4 ER Large Lasers, 1 Clan LBX AC20, 3 ER Medium Lasers, 1 Clan LRM20, LAMS
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MechWarrior Alex Thorn
post Sep 14 2006, 05:20 PM
Post #109



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Reade made it to the pod and started the firing sequence. He was getting antsy as me and Wedge made our way toward the door to the pod.

We were almost there when Wedge got his pack stuck on something in the corridor.


Hold the ejection sequence, Major. I will assist him.

I then drew my combat knife and began to cut Wedge free. As I worked time was running out and I frantically tried to cut the man free. Finally I just ripped him free and shoved him through the door right as it closed. In a blinding flash the pod lurched free from the ship. I was left alone.

I analyzed the situation. I knew I could make it alone. Clan blood ran in my veins. I was trained for this kind of situation. I checked over my supplies. I had 30 shots remaining in my rifle and only 12 left in my Desert Eagle. I still had about three clips each left in the Berrettas though and the combat knife. I unholstered the two Berrettas and clicked them into semi-automatic.

I began making my way to where I knew I could get off. As I was moving along the lights flickered and nearly shut off. Backup lights glowed a dull red. Soon I found myself behind a group of security guards. They had two people pinned up against a wall. I drew my combat knife and quietly snuck up from behind. I grabbed the closest guard and choaked him and then finally slit his throat.


What the hell? Where's Mendoza?

The other guards alert turned around. I pulled the other Berretta and quickly changed them to fully automatic. Jumping from where I was in the hall to the other side I unleased the furry of the two pistols. Two guards quickly fell. I jumped back to the other side letting out another barrage. Another guard fell, his body torn to pieces. My landing on the other side drew me close to the last guard. We were soon engaged in a fist fight. The first blow came to me. The man was able to land a hard hit across my jaw. I staggered back and lept forward. I caught the man off guard and then came up behind him. Grabbing his head I swiftly drew it to the side. Snapping his neck his body fell limp.

I walked forward and found Captain Desperado and one of his followers.


Captain Desperado? I'm afraid we've never had a formal introduction, Alex Thorn. I believe I may know a way off this ship.

I reloaded the clips in my Berrettas and headed toward the hanger. If I was correct there would be a VTOL there that we might be able to use to get back to the Liberty.


--------------------
Position : Mechwarrior
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Current BattleMech : Marauder IIC (Wolf's Teeth) [Assault]
Loadout: 3x ER PPC, 2x Medium Pulse Laser, 4x ER Small Laser
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Captain Charles Maxwell
post Sep 15 2006, 03:07 PM
Post #110



AEGIS DIVISION | Commander
Rank: General



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Posts: 108
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"There's already a DetPac here. They must've succeeded."

Thastus examined the explosive, whose digital readout was counting down from six minutes. Quickly, she shook her head.

"No. This DetPac was just placed - moments ago. Whoever planted it is still in the area."

I snapped my head around, attempting to find anyone in the vicinity. A flash of movement, in an upper corridor, caught my eye.

"There," I emphasized, pointing at the retreating figure. "Let's go."

I pushed off the deck plating, Thastus in tow, and sailed through the compartment, grabbing hold of the upper level corridor's ledge to stop my ascent. As I executed a wild and rather ungainly landing on the deck, I craned my neck toward the subject, who was quickly making his way down the wrecked gangway. I immediately recognized the uniform.

"Captain Garland!" I called out. The Legionnaire twisted around, brandishing his sidearm momentarily, before recognition set in.

"General Maxwell; Aisa Thastus. Good to know you're still alive. We need to get out of here - quickly."

I nodded.

"Lead the way. We've got your six."


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Position : Commander, Aegis Division
Callsign : Eden
Current BattleMech : CPLT-C1 Catapult
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Sergeant Hobson
post Sep 15 2006, 03:28 PM
Post #111



LEGIONNAIRES | DropShip Commander
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Meanwhile...

"Oh, this isn't good."

Captain Masterson rose from her command chair, and quickly moved to peer over my shoulder.

"What've you got, Hobson?"

I pulled the Liberty's T & T grid up on the main screen.

"I've just picked up a massive hyperspace surge twelve kilometers out from our current position. It looks like three vessels - I can't identify them from this range - but we can safely assume that they don't belong to the local militia."

Masterson grimaced.

"Try hailing them."

I nodded to Machia. With a chirp, the DropShip's communications grid came alive, sending a tight-beam signal lancing across the abyss. After a long pause, Machia shook her head.

"Damn. Hobson - which teams do we still have contact with?"

"It's hard to say at this point, Captain. Nearly all our assets are operating as individuals at this point. Communication is sporadic, at best."

Masterson nodded.

"Send a general message out to all assets - inform them that they need to speed up the evacuation, and advise them of the situation. I don't like the smell of this."


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Recipient of the Order of Katherine Steiner medal for distinguished performance in combat.
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Lieutenant William Dante
post Sep 17 2006, 06:15 PM
Post #112



Sheratan Planetary Militia | MechWarrior
Rank: Lieutenant



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Meanwhile...

DropShip C.S.V. Dreams of Avarice
______________________________________________

"I need an analysis! Immediately!"

With the Dreams of Avarice's primary tactical officer committed to hammering away at the Crimson Platform, delivering as much diversionary fire as possible, Corporal Terrence Biggs, the DropShip's operations manager, took charge of performing the sensor sweep, using the vessel's advanced Clan electronics to probe further and more accurately than those of the other ships in the floatilla.

"Lieutenant, from where we are, it's impossible to make an absolutely positive identification - however - the sensor profiles are consistent with that of an Agamemnon-class Heavy Cruiser, escorted by one - wait...make that two...Eagle-class Frigates. Their transponders are switched off - probably to prevent their arrival from being immediately noticed by the Kaitosians."

"And that makes them hostile, in my book. What's their trajectory?"

Biggs paused momentarily, while the movement paths of the vessels were calculated by the Avarice's computers.

"They're moving directly toward us, sir."

I frowned, and shook my head. This Operation was coming apart around us.

"Signal the Liberty. Tell them that they need to get in there and get whatever's left of our teams off the Platform now. Advise them that the Terra Nova and our vessel will be moving to intercept the new contacts."

The Corporal cast me an incredulous look.

"Sir - with all due respect - if those really are Eagles..."

"I'm well aware of the implications, Corporal. Carry out your orders."

"Aye, sir. Signaling the fleet."


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Position : Lieutenant | Sheratan Planetary Militia
Callsign : Aquarius
Current BattleMech : AKU-1X Akuma (Vindicator) [Assault]
Loadout: 1x ER PPC, 1x Medium Pulse Laser, 1x 2nd Gen Streak SRM 4, 1x Medium Laser, 1x MRM-30, 1x LB 10-X AC, 1x 2nd Gen Streak SRM-6
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Captain Desparado
post Sep 18 2006, 04:08 AM
Post #113



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I slung my heavy laser rifle over my shoulder and used my hands to pull myself along the hallways, following Alex Thorn as fast as I could through them. We three made our way towards the hangar at best speed. I wondered about how we were going to find Captain Garland, Jason and General Maxwell but I dindn't have long to think about that. Alex Thorn collided with Captain Garland at a dark intersection. There were sounds of a ferocious fight until both of them realized who it was they had met. Alex explained for them to follow and we made off again, it was not long before Ian tugged at my ankle. I think we are being pursued. I nodded in response to her whisper and leveled my Heavey Laser rifle directly behind the company. I signaled my Ian to continue to follow the group and I awaited the shadows approaching. My brain is slightly faster than my trigger finger but not my much. I recognized the two figures from the breifing as well. Legionnaires, eh? We've got to hurry. A woman, the clanner I recognized spoke with a sneer. I'm afraid that that is an understatement, the Primary-

BOOM!

Her words weree cut short by the death rattle of the Crimson Platform. It was a horrid noise but it had not hindered our ability to expedite our departure. We caught up to the others, passing bodies as we did and finally made it into the hanger bay. Time was prescious but there was resistance inside. We surged as a wave of fury into the hangerbay wasting the lives of men who stood in our way. General Maxwell lead the daring move into a Pelican VII infantry dropship and took the helm. Everyone strapped in and Alex Thorn took Copilot beside the General.
We need to override the controls to get out of here! The bay doors are shut! This was the cry from the cockpit. Open the hatch and get ready to close it when I say! I unfastened myself and leaned out of the back of our transport. Tremors rocked the ship ever more violently as I looked around the bay. Seeing my target I armed my final grenade and threw it at the main door controls and ducked back inside giving the order to seal the hatch.

The main doors flew open and debris and bodies flew into the vaccum, equalizing the presures. At the same moment tounges of flame erupted from the doorway we had entered the bay through, the ship was going critical. General Maxwell gave the dropship full throttle and we tore free of our docking clamps and catapulted into space leaving a one hell of a show behind us. Those of us in the rear crowded the small window and witnessed the death of a super weapon. Excess power from the platform's generators danced like lightning across the hull. Fire seeped out of more and more orafices in the ship and the area between plates begun to grow. It culminated in an orgasm of energy that dissolved most solid matter that made the ship. We barely escaped its lethal shockwave but debris rocketed past us menacingly. I returned to my seat and Ian began to administer medical care to the clanner woman, she looked pretty messed up. I shook Captain Garland's outstretched hand as he spoke.
Good working with you Captain, it was a pleasure but I'm more than relived that its over. Its not quite over yet. A voice from the cockpit announced, We're on with the Avarice. They say that there's good news and that there's some bad news...


--------------------
Position : Captain | LEGIONNAIRES
Callsign : Libra - 1
Current BattleMech : Sunder Leviathan
Loadout : 4 ER Large Lasers, 1 Clan LBX AC20, 3 ER Medium Lasers, 1 Clan LRM20, LAMS
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Saburo Kintaru
post Sep 18 2006, 08:13 AM
Post #114



Crayven Securities, Inc. | MechWarrior
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Meanwhile…

“How much longer?” I pestered. My nerves were set on edge. We were lucky to get this far. My mind rolled back to the moment our lance was split up. We had been wondering the seemingly silent corridors, only to be caught up in a deadly ambush. Out numbered and outgunned, the only thing that kept the battled tipped in our favour – if only slightly – was that fact that I was wearing Battle Armour. The WoB scum were no match against my chain gun and my armour had repelled most of their attacks. This gave Kei-teh and Aisa some dense cover to hide behind. However, our luck had quickly ran out when Faulkner had sealed off the corridors with mighty, impenetrable bulkheads. Kei-teh and myself were lucky enough to get on one side of the bulkhead, while Aisa seemingly, or rather unconsciously, stayed and fought on the wrong side of the steel wall. Intentional or not, from what we could tell, we fate was sealed. I could only hope that she took enough of those bastards out before she bit the bullet…

“I’d be done faster if you stopped bugging me…” Kei-teh responded to my question. He too was set on edge. Not only had we lost contact with our lance-mate, but our escape seemed extremely unlikely. The mighty bulkheads dotted around the corridors we surveyed had blocked off our path.

“Just keep on the look out and buy me some time… I’m nearly done.” I grunted with a reply. I primed my chain gun and allowed it to start oscillating. Although the sound it emitted could easily draw attention to our whereabouts, the large reading of heat that the generator was creating made thermal vision near useless. It meant I could wait and watch silently. All I could count on was my own field of sight.

But there was a lot more to priming my chain cannon than just the area situation. The Generator room was quiet – far to quiet for something that SHOULD be heavily guarded. Anything could attack us. Knowing Faulkner, he had more than likely prepared something vicious. A line of sweat trickled down my spine, causing me to shudder. Perhaps he had another Vetron unit… if that was the case I sure as hell didn’t have enough ammo for that. I checked my ammo counter to confirm that.

“Fifty three rounds…” I muttered. I could spend that in a second. I instantly check the counter of my small laser gun. It also read a meek result. All that was left after that were the two three feet long retractable bayonets that hid in the suit’s arms.

“If it comes to it I’ll have to use harsh language…” I growled pessimistically, knowing my arsenal in THAT department was always fully loaded.

Suddenly the unmistakable sound of metal clasping onto metal could be heard. It came louder and louder, seemingly from every corner of the generator room. Kei-teh heard it and quickly stood up. I couldn’t see or hear it, but I knew that my brother would already have his hands wrapped around his katana. We both stood ready, expecting the worst.

“Well, well, well...” Came a familiar voice from the shadows. “I didn’t expect to see you here Kei-teh Kintaru, however I’m just as please to see you.”

“Show yourself!” I roared, the suit magnifying the ferocity of my voice. Without a hint of reluctance, the figure appeared, followed by the sound of magnetic boots hugging tightly to the steel flooring.

“As you wish…” His appearance shocked me. However my shock was quickly overcome by pure disgust. He wore a large cape that was wrapped around his body. Only his face and magnetic boots could be seen.

“So this is the path you’ve chosen? I give you a second chance at life and this is how you waste it?” I growled.

“Zhukov?!” My brother shouted. During his absence he knew nothing about the betrayal of our former Russian team mate. “I don’t understand, what is going on?”

“I wouldn’t expect you to understand.” Zhukov sniped. He stood confidently and strongly. It was about time I broke that down.

“I notice your standing okay Zhukov? Shouldn’t you be walking with the aid of a cain?” His disposition, though hidden well, was apparent to me. I had set off a tiny spark in his mind and it was something I was about to exploit.

“How very kind of you to notice.” He paused, just long enough for him to regain himself. “However I wont be in need a walking stick just yet, thanks to Doctor Falkner’s ingenious technology. My Achilles tendons were healed in no time thanks to him.”

“I see his manipulation has also worked it’s wonders…”

“Manipulation?! YOU are blind by your arrogance! I am here of my own free will. The Doctor simply gave me a helping hand – “

“Why Zhukov?! Why have you sided with the Word when we have both fought along side each other. WHY HAVE YOU SIDED WITH THEM?!” Kei-teh shouted. He was in a state of worry.

“I haven’t sided with the Word… no far from it. The men and women serving on this ship are among the few that have awakened from their slumber. The Word just imposes a false sense of security. They don't know it yet, but their time is coming to an end. NO, NO Kei-teh, I have not sided with the Word at all. I am merely using them to fund our dreams!"

“Ren… your finishing off his work aren’t you?”

“I’m not just finishing it… I am leading it! The men and women you’ve seen on this ship were loyal to General Ren and now they are loyal to me!”

“HA! How very unlikely!” I exploded into a fit of laughter. “You couldn’t organise a party in a brewery, let along command all those people!”

Zhukov’s face twisted with hatred.

“The Zhukov I know crawled away in fear like the mutt he was! You can’t be Zhukov! If you are, I strongly suggest you tuck your tail between your legs and get out of my sight!”

“You DARE call me a coward?!” He thundered. He was clearly unnerved. His body trembled with anger. “HOW DARE YOU! I’ll--”

It was just the response I was looking for. Zhukov had barely noticed my primed chain gun. I squeezed the trigger, cutting him off mid sentence. My weapon emptied all fifty three rounds towards Zhukov’s direction. At the exact moment I had squeezed the trigger, pure fear had replaced his anger, so much that he pulled his cape across his face and hid behind it. The hot explosive rounds smashed into Zhukov, kicking up dust and smoke. The smoke filled a portion of the room and had hid the gristly aftermath.

“I’m sorry, you’ll do what now?” I giggled slightly. Although I had spent all my ammunition for my primary weapon, it felt immensely enjoyable, not to mention stress revealing, to have annihilated the brainwashed fool. He had his second chance and he blew it. Tough shit.

“Saburo! Why did you go and do that? There was still time to save him!” My brother whined. He obviously didn’t know what had happened during his absence.

“Kei-teh… trust me it was for the best. He was no better than Ren himself. He may have fought against Ren and the Word at one point in his life, but I can tell you, once you side with them, there is no turning back!”

“No turning back? I managed to save YOU didn’t I?”

“… That was different… Zhukov wasn’t manipulated by drugs and psychotic brainwashing. He sided with THEM under his OWN will!”

“HE IS RIGHT YOU KNOW!” I spun around in horror to see Zhukov still standing. Out of breath and shaking, a maniacal grin smeared across his face. “I choose to do this under MY own will!”

“Y-You… can’t be alive!” I stuttered in disbelief. Although his cape remained in tatters, there wasn’t a single scratch on him. His right arm remained in a defensive position, as did his left. Slowly, and forcefully it seemed, he regained a more natural stature and began to readjust this clothing. He wore a black jump suit, some of which was covered in multiple wires that fed from his back and into his arms. His arms and hands were protected by what appeared to be thick, metallic gloves. His legs were also covered with thickly armoured boots that ran up to his knees.

“But how?!” I stuttered. Zhukov replied with a hideous laughter – even more horrendous and evil than Ren’s.

“I wont give you the pleasure of finding out Saburo. However I will deal you an extra helping of pain!”

I stood silent for a moment as my disbelief turned into furious anger. I dumped my now useless chain gun and retracted the two razor sharp bayonets.

“If bullets won’t kill you then I will just have to rip you apart with these!” I growled. Without another moments hesitation I charged for Zhukov. His eyes became thin slits and his smile grew even wider. He took his stance and clenched his metallic fists.

Everything slowed down. The hairs on the back of my neck stood on end. The intense ferocity of my hatred began to cleanse me. Nothing could stop me. Not even my brother’s pleads to stop, which grew softer and softer the closer and closer I got towards Zhukov. I launched myself into the air, ready to strike!


--------------------
Callsign: Alpha Two
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Captain Garrett Garland
post Sep 18 2006, 04:02 PM
Post #115



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Christ, more bad news, aside from the death of many Legionnaires, Crayven personal, and my commander and friend, Benjamin Maxwell?

Up until the violent destruction of the platform, I still held onto the hope that somehow, Ben was still alive down there, that he hadn’t perished in the fierce battle for the control room, but now I saw no way he could have survived the fight. As far as I could tell from my seat in the hold, no other ships aside from the Crayven flotilla registered on our ship’s radar, though the troop carrier’s sensor suite was quite limited. And then I had another thought… my Battlemech! Damn, just another loss. The Legionnaires were hurting, hurting badly. If we made it out of this, I doubted we could even field two lances. Expecting the worst, I beckoned for the General to give us the news. I wondered how he hid his emotions so well… a son should never die before his father.


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Position : Captain | LEGIONNAIRES
Callsign : Fox
Current BattleMech : Shadow Hawk [55 tons] [97.2 km/h max] [120 meter jump range]
Loadout : [1x Rotary AC5] [1x LRM-20] [1x Medium Pulse Laser] [2x Streak SRM-2] [AMS] [CASE] [ECM] [JumpJets]
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Sergeant Hobson
post Sep 18 2006, 05:30 PM
Post #116



LEGIONNAIRES | DropShip Commander
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Meanwhile...

DropShip Liberty
______________________________________________

"Captain Garland and Captain Desparado's teams have cleared the platform. They're reporting that General Maxwell, Alex Thorn, and Aisa Thastus are with them. We're moving to retrieve them."

Captain Masterson nodded grimly.

"Very well. What about the Kintarus?"

I shook my head. "Nothing, Captain."

Masterson exhaled heavily. "We can't afford to wait any longer. As soon as the Pelican is aboard, get us out of here."

"Aye, Captain."

"Captain, we're being hailed by the Dreams of Avarice. They're reporting that they're intercepting two Eagle frigates and an Agamemnon cruiser. Alignment unknown," Machia announced, routing an image transmitted by the Dreams of Avarice's onboard cameras to the main viewer.

"Eagles? An Agamemnon? Are we dealing with Capellans?"

"I don't - that is - the Avarice's crew isn't certain. They're still relaying telemetry."

"We need to det - "

Suddenly, a tremendous flash tore across the external feeds, followed by a massive shockwave which rippled outward like the aftereffect of a stone dropped into a pond. A hail of debris rocked the Liberty as the Crimson Platform tore itself apart in an apocalyptic explosion that rivaled that of the nuclear blast responsible for the Thorin's destruction two years prior. The Liberty jolted and shuddered as the remnants of the shockwave passed over and across its hull, rattling consoles and shaking panels loose under the force of its impact.

"Hobson! Were any of the pods or escape craft exposed to that?"

My hands flew across the navigator's console, attempting to cross-reference sensor data as quickly as I could.

"Negative. The last of the ships were brought aboard just prior to the explosion."

"Blake have mercy," Masterson muttered. "What's the status of the floatilla?"

I patched the external feed from the Liberty's cameras into the viewer, magnifying the images of the Avarice and the Terra Nova. Flashes of light flickered across the hulls of the DropShips as their maneuvering thrusters fired, slowly adjusting the vessels' courses until their flight paths became mirror opposites of the three newly-arrived spacecraft. Though the image was bereft of audio, Crewman Machia delivered a play-by-play, reading from a display inset into her console as the Dreams of Avarice streamed their communication traffic to the Liberty.

"The Avarice and Terra Nova are in position. The Avarice is hailing the vessels...the Agamemnon is responding."

"Put it on speakers."

A burst of static rolled across the bridge speakers, slowly resolving into a coherent audio stream. The voice of Lieutenant William Dante manifested itself mid-sentence.

". . .- cursion into this star system. Identify yourself."

A chilling, charismatic-sounding voice answered the Lieutenant's directive. The speaker's delivery was sedate and calculated.

"This is First Minister Jardensen, of the Most Blessed battlecruiser Redemption. You will power down your weapons, and make preparations to receive our prophets aboard your vessel, that they may lead you to the way and the truth and the light that is the Word of Blake."

"You're out of your mind. This is a mercenary operation being conducted under the auspices of the Crayven Corporation and the government of Deneb Kaitos. Neither agents of the Hand nor their...weapon platforms...are permitted in this star system. You will withdraw to the jump point and - "

"Once you have received our prophets, you will kneel before them, and repent for your transgressions. You will then rise, and follow the path of the Word, allowing the Hand to guide you as you divest yourselves of your former lives and follow the True Path. This is the commandment of Blake. Praise be to him."

A long pause, interspersed with crackles of static, followed. Eventually, Dante spoke.

"I don't think so. I'm not in the habit of negotiating with psychopaths."

"That is most unfortunate. My heart bleeds for you, and pleads that you might one day freely embrace the love and the peace and the joy that is the Word."

"Sorry to disappoint you. Next time the collection plate comes my way, perhaps I'll toss a few C-Bills in to make up for it."

"Your generosity has been noted and is appreciated by Our Most Blessed Order. However, the Word requires immediate penance for your transgressions. That penance will be exacted now."

The comm line fell silent. Our collective attentions once again shifted to the main viewer. For several seconds, nothing happened. Then, dual flashes erupted from the noses of the Eagle frigates, and a pair of visible sine waves lanced out, corkscrewing toward the Terra Nova at hypersonic speed. A fraction of a second later, the Union-class DropShip imploded, a reddish-orange fireball ripping the ship apart moments later as the two heavy naval gauss rounds punched through its core with lethal accuracy. A surge of plasma spat from the engine nozzles of the Dreams of Avarice as the remaining vessel's navigator slammed the throttle forward, sending the ship up and over the bow of the Agamemnon-class heavy cruiser. The titanic vessel opened fire on the Avarice, scoring several indirect hits as the two starships became locked in a silent, morbid waltz of combat. The vessels grappled for several minutes, a testament to both the durability of General Maxwel's flagship as well as the skill of its pilot, before a muted explosion, obscured by the line of Blakist vessels, coincided with the sudden, deathly quiet of the Avarice's transponder falling silent.

"Get us out of here, Hobson. Get us out of here now," Masterson whispered, horror evident in her voice. Before I could reply, Crewman Machia interjected, panicked.

"Incoming message from the Redemption, Captain! They're transmitting on all frequencies and all carrier waves! Shall I put it on speaker?"

The color drained from Captain Masterson's face, and her voice dropped to a husky rasp.

"No. Open a channel to the Blakists. All frequencies and all carrier waves. Tell them..."

Masterson's words caught in her throat. The Captain coughed several times, before taking a deep breath and continuing.

"Tell them...we surrender."


- END -


--------------------
Recipient of the Order of Katherine Steiner medal for distinguished performance in combat.
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Major Vincenzo Canio
post Sep 20 2006, 09:03 AM
Post #117



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“Sir?” came a voice from behind. I placed my Cognac on the side table and raised myself up from my plush leather executive chair. The young came into view, greeting me with a short bow. He remained silent until I finished tasting the remainder of my drink. Cognac was a favourite of mine and although many would have considered my great want for the drink ‘odd’, I considered it one of life’s greater pleasures. The remainder of the drink slid down my throat like smooth liquid velvet. The drink was a rare breed of Cognac, as its origin wasn’t from France. This Cognac was Italian brewed liquor, far sweeter than the typical French Cognac. Italian Cognac was very unheard of in this day and age, so I considered it a real treat. And today was well worth the opening of my private reserves.

“Yes?” I eventually replied.

“Your orders have been carried out sir. The Legionnaire assets have been captured and—“

“Yes, I am fully aware of what has just happened Corporal. Are their senior officers aboard and secure?”

“The Legionnaires suffered several losses. Some have been taken alive while others have been taken to the secure medical bay.”

“I want to make myself absolutely clear – those that are in the medical bay are to be brought back to health. Don’t over work worry TOO much about how comfortable they are, I just want them alive. If they can be converted then we WILL convert them!” I urged, resting my elbows on the arms of my chair with my fingers interlocked and at chin level.

“Understood Sir.”

“Now, as for the senior officers…” I began, standing up and adjusting my suit. I tugged at my white gloves, making sure they were immaculate. “… I want them all brought up to the observation deck. Make sure they are secure because if they are not and my well being is at risk, I will hold you personally responsible.”

“Yes Sir.” The Corporal responded.

“Blake is with you. Now make the preparations for the senior officers… I’m about to give them a show they will never forget.” I said. And with that, the Corporal began to carry out my orders. After he closed the solid oak door of my cabin, I approached the large mirror in front of me. I took a small comb from the dressing table and began to draw back the few jet black hairs that were out of place.

“Yes… they will never forget this…” I muttered, content with my appearance.

An hour later…

The observation deck was one long and tall room with a balcony along the top. I found this the perfect place to watch the pristine calmness of space and its endless reach. However, today was going to be different and I was sure that the Legionnaires would take note of the Word’s power. I stood on the lower deck, next a small console that would eventually open the giant shutters. On a small serving table next to me sat a small brandy glass with a double helping of that delicious, velvet Cognac. I took a gentle sip of the delicious drink as I patiently waited for the arrival of my guests. The two armed guards stood vigilantly by the two side entrances of observation balcony. They weren’t just the perfect example of a good soldier, but they were fantastic disciples of Blake. It was something that everyone would someday strive to be. I could only hope the Legionnaires, along with the rest of the Inner Sphere would realise that one day…

Eventually one of the side doors quickly shuffled open as several chained men entered the observation room. They looked down at their feet in deadly silence.

“Ah perfect timing!” I said with a positive chime to my Italian accent. I pressed play on the console (one of it’s many functions). I picked up my glass and raised it to the Legionnaires, who looked down at me from their observation deck.

“I just wanted to raise my glass to the people who managed to take out the Crimson Platform. It was a very great feat for a mercenary unit such as you. Doctor Faulkner’s plans to over throw the Word have been thwarted because of you. For that I thank you.” The Legionnaires remained silent. I took another meaningful sip of my drink, watching from below. They all appeared exhausted and weary from battle. I could only imagine what nasty surprises Faulkner had in store for them.

“I would offer you all a glass; however this Cognac is extremely precious to me. I only drink it for special occasions. But I will allow for you to enjoy one of my favourite pieces of music. “I Pagliacci” with vocals from Pavarotti… it’s an astounding piece of art, don’t you think?”

Again there was silence…

“I think the sorrowful tone is very suiting for the setting…” I said, pressing another button on the console. The gigantic shutters slowly opened. Inch by inch they revealed the Word’s might. A smile spread on my face as the shutters came to a stop. Before us were thousands of Blake ships. They circled the Deneb Kaitos system and maintained themselves like a strong battalion of men. It was absolutely tremendous.

“Yes… you may ask why I’ve put on this sorrowful song during a time of celebration…” I said, turning to greet the expressions of absolutely horror of the Legionnaires. “… It is sorrowful that we have to use aggression against the people of Deneb Kaitos. Her government won’t take the blessings of Blake easily… but in time they will. Those aren’t the sorrowful cries of Deneb Kaitos you hear. They don’t even belong to Pavarotti. Those cries you hear are from Blake himself! He weeps for those lost…”

I took another slip of my Cognac. Halfway through it a bright flash caught the corner of my eye. I turned around to see a mighty battalion of orbital frames dropping their payload of nuclear bombs. By the time I had seen the first flash, the orbital frames dropped another payload. Bursts of bright white flames coated large sections of the planet.

“Yes… I predict very shortly her government will submit. If we have to we’ll destroy the whole planet… but I can assure you that we don’t want that happening.” I swallowed down hard on my drink. My assurances didn’t mean anything in this universe. Especially not to anyone outside of the beloved order.

“You crazy murdering son-of-a-bitch!” One of the Legionnaires screamed. Having reviewed the personnel documents, I recognised him to be “Garland”.

“Crazy Mr Garland? Murdering Mr Garland? How DARE you stand there and make these outrageous accusations about our beloved sect!” I screamed, smashing my emptied glass on the floor.

“The Word is bringing peace to this corrupt and disgusting place you call the Inner Sphere. Your kind has murdered for years Garland! You… all of you!” I said, labelling each Legionnaire with an outreached finger. “You have all bled this Inner Sphere dry! Your actions have killed any last shred of decency!”

My voice echoed through the observation desk.

“That will all change when we take power…” I regained myself.

“You won’t take power. You’ll be stopped, just like every other mad man and his organisation before you!” It was General Maxwell’s this time who spoke up. I paused for a moment and locked ice cold eyes with his weary ones.

“I’m sure your son would have said the same thing… had he been alive long enough for his capture…” I said softly, knowing I would enrage him.

The General cried out in anger and thrashed about wildly. He shook off a guard that stood directly behind with great strength.

“I’ll KILL you!” were his final words before another guard smashed his stun stick across the back of the old man’s head. He fell to the ground like a barrel of bricks, out cold. The remaining Legionnaires became wide eyed and furious.

“Before any of you even think about retaliating, I want to say this: You time is up! Its over for you. The end. Rafinito! All you can do now is wait to be re-educated…” I sighed, recomposing myself. “I am sure that many of you are blaming me or yourselves for being here. Don’t, because there is no one to blame. Blake’s will has the final say in everything.”

The Legionnaires glared at me with wide, angry eyes. But it didn’t matter. The first part of the job was done. All that was left was the re-education.

“You're dismissed… take them out of here.” I finally said, staring deeply into the on going capture of Deneb Kaitos. It’s morbidity was fascinating to me. It was like a silent taboo that only I was able to watch.

“Utterly amazing view…” I whispered to myself. I only wished I had another glass of Cognac…

Later…

“Major Canio, please report to the landing bay…” Came a computerised voice. The intercom system had awoken me from a deep slumber. I discovered I had fallen asleep in my cabin with the bottle of my precious liquor half empty. Drink didn’t usually have much effect on me; however it had seemingly lulled me to sleep this time. I stood up, slightly groggy yet none the worse. I pressed the button on the intercom system and announced I would be arriving shortly.

Shortly…

“This had better have been worth my disturbance…” I growled as I entered bay.

“Sir, moments ago we captured an escape pod containing four life readings. The escape pod appears to have detached from the Crimson Platform.” Witling explained as we made our way down the corridors and into a small containment area.

“They are more than likely converted followers of Faulkner and that Zhukov imbecile… have them executed immediately following their capture.” I was in a foul mood. I saw no reason for my being here. As soon as I had identified who they were, I would have them shot to death as soon as we arrived at the camp.

I stopped before the escape pod. Technicians hurried around the craft, connecting wires into ports and disabling it. Eventually the technicians had backed off and took their places behind their computers. Heavily armed guards took their places and aimed squarely for the craft’s main hatch. The techs ran their fingers furiously over their keyboards until a loud “click” and the sound of releasing clasps could be heard. The hatch slowly hovered open.

“Well what have we here?” I said out load as I peered in from the back. The armoured guards entered the pod and emerged with one man each in their grasps. The first one emerged was conscious but silent and did little to resist. He looked wounded, but nothing too serious. He bore no symbol of any allegiance on him and wore some form of oriental clothing.

“He was holding onto these when we found him, sir.” One of the guards said. He held out three swords, two katana and one ancient looking bladed weapon. I nodded in affirmation.

The next guard brought out a gristly picture of a man. He was covered head to toe in gore. His hands and mouth were especially drenched in blood. If it wasn’t for the fact that he was breathing, I would have thought that it was his blood he was stained in and that he had succumbed to his injuries. Interestingly he wore a Legionnaires emblem on his front breast pocket.

“Send him to medical bay… we’ll investigate him afterwards.” I ordered. Soon after, the guard rushed the unconscious man away.

“Well… this is a VERY pleasant surprise!” I chuckled as a third man was dragged from the pod. He was very awake and very pissed.

“Doctor Faulkner… I had presumed you had died! This is exceedingly good news! Now I can have you put on trial. After you’re convicted for your crimes, I’ll have you personally slaughtered!”

“Say what you will Canio, but mark my words… your end is coming! The Word will be overthrown!”

“Overthrown? Doctor… did you honestly think your Crimson Platform would have been enough to overthrow the Word? You’re more of a fool than I realised!” I laughed.

“Do what you will to me... but you’ll never know the secrets to that weapon!” Faulkner sniped. I paisley grin spread over his thin lips.

“You really think so? I’ll have you know that not ALL of your followers were as discreet as you had thought.” I paused as I watched that smug grin fall off his face. “We’ve captured your technology. We copied it and bettered it. Your obsolete now.”

Faulkner stared in utter disbelief. His expression nearly mimicked the Legionnaires’ earlier dismay. I then gave another affirmative nod to have Faulkner take away.

“Have the Doctor’s stay on this ship most unpleasant...” I ordered as he was taken away.

“Sir, this is the last of them… he appears to be unconscious as well… I’m not sure if he’ll make it…” The final guard said. He held a limp body in his hands. Had I not seen for myself, I would have had his body jettisoned into space… however I was stopped dead in my tracks. For the first time in a while I was left speechless.

“Sir?”

“Have this one taken to medical bay! He is NOT to be harmed! I don’t care if you have to rip his soul from the clutches of the Devil! If he dies then I’ll have you fired into space!” I ordered, petrified that the limp body before me could well and truly pass on.

The soldiers rushed frantically to ensure they wouldn’t meet a grim end. As they left I took a seat in the containment room. Witling stood beside me unsure of what to say.

“Blake's will does move in mysterious ways, doesn’t it Witling?” I asked. Witling remained silent. “I had presumed him dead. I hadn’t thought about it when the report came… but now that I’ve seen him alive…”

“Sir, am I correct in saying that you used to work with him?”

“That’s right… I haven’t seen him since Comstar…”

THE END
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