A Calderon is You

bzzt3421 · Jun 3, 2015

Psyckosama said:
Alright. The Old Guard seems to be suspicious of you due to your low birth and lack of preparation.

Understandable, annoying but understandable. As long as they aren't going to every news outlet in sight, crying about how I'm selling the Taurian people out for cash, then it will keep.

Frankly it's the cheapest tool. They'll gear down for the duplication in 6 months. To make up for production shortfalls they're going to be doing double shifts. That way there will not be a severe production shortfall and they'll meet all their standing orders... but you get to pay the overtime.

Sigh, let me get that check book.

You're insanely rich and you make literally billions each year. Just you're going to blow your initial nest egg if you're not careful.

Hmm, yeah, fair enough.

They'll start drawing it up.

Good, I'll be looking forward to it.

VMI would like the Shadowhawk. They're the ones copying thier line and they'll do so without charging the duplication costs as long as it means they come out with another mech factory.

Hmm, well I know I good deal when I spot one, so the line is theirs.

It was handed out like hotcakes. That's like trying to dam a river with your hands. You'll just get annoyed and wet.

That's exactly the problem and exactly why the Triple Alliance worked. The Periphery states had copies but they basically were useless to them due to not having the resources to decrypt them.

And honestly, it probably would be cheaper to simply find another memory core.

Okay makes sense, for now though, even if it is useless. Until we can either get another memory core with a reader(how likely is that to happen?

) or convince a Inner Sphere state to help us out, this looks like the only method we've got. For now anyway, still I know a white elephant when I see one. I'll let the question of extra funding for the project drop for now.

He'll give it his all and more.,

Good man.

At this point you probably at par with the rump capallan confederation in industrial output if not stronger and are sure as hell more powerful than the Saint Ives compact. You're worthy of respect.

Hanse is VERY interested in this. He'll always be in the market for more guns... and he still has a snake to skin.

And I'm very interested in selling them, as long as I know they'll won't be used against us. And with that note, while I know that the raiding between our two nations has never been as heavy, as the raiding between the Successor States, I would appreciate it if your diplomat would propose to us an offer to stop the raiding on the side of the Davions, which we would respond with a counter offer to stop raiding on behalf of the Concordat. A bit unorthodox in having the stronger side make the initial offer, but it make it easier for me to get my people to go along with it, as well as providing a good first step on convincing the Concordat that their view of the FedSuns as this giant tiger that sits on the boarder waiting to pounce and devour us all, is wrong. Once that believe that, it would be easier to convince them to actually sell to the new FedCom. Still, I understand if this would equally cause trouble with your own people, so consider it only an idea.

Right. Now, lets jump things ahead say... three months?

Any last efforts before that?

Well if if I've still got the money and the time, see if my generals like the idea of approaching Quickscell to buy a license and the tooling necessary to start producing their LRM/SRM carriers, and the Manticore heavy tank. Seeing as we currently lack any non mech/fighter based fire support aside from the Hunter, or a heavy tank of our own. Though obviously we'll need to insist on it being operated by our own people, as we've got a maintain our reputation of the Taurian Standard.

katar · Jun 3, 2015

Jack Calderon 3011

Psyckosama said:
The generals find that more comfortable. They can reduce some of the garrisons without stripping any defenses as long as they're careful.

And how much forces will they be able to gather this way? The reason i picked the Guards was they are a focused force and all part of the same command. I ask the Marshals to explain how a patchwork unit can do better.

SASF are special forces, no space-pathfinders.

Yes they are. I want them to sneak in get the lay of the land, and set up to capture jumpers when the army arrives in force.

They all came in about the same time.

Then yee ole random picks out of the pile it is. Look for those prospects close to my age or a older, and dodge those younger as much as i can. Other than that, I wont be picky on where the lady is from or her station.

drakensis · Jun 3, 2015

Kaede Kanzaki-Calderon (23), 3011

Psyckosama said:
People are still pretty upset and there's still some doubt to your tactical judgement (she's a school teacher not a general) but your good intentions are never doubted. Though there's a general feeling in the unit you could really do with better advice.

The learning curve for this sort of thing is notoriously bloody. And I'm not going to dip foot in tactical matters - only strategy and logistics and that with plenty of advice.

Psyckosama said:
Actually he's pissed at you for not learning to fear the might of the Confederation.

If I didn't have concerns about his might then I'd not be entering into a foreign alliance against him.

Psyckosama said:
Mostly in the form of charting. The place is a notorious pain in the ass to navigate.

Then by all means ask them.

Psyckosama said:
2d6 for squadrons worth of pilots.

[dice]1853[/dice]

Psyckosama said:
They arrive on planet discretely. How do you want to greet them.

A degree of discretion seems in order. Have someone senior in the military greet them at the space port and take them to the estate. They and their escort get housed in a guest house or wing of the building distinct from that which I'm occupying.

Unless they specifically want some other arrangement, start out with a quiet dinner for the two of them plus an aide each and myself and 1-3 advisors (assuming protocol advisors agree this is reasonable). Not a formal dinner, something relatively private so we can talk frankly if they're so inclined.

Psyckosama · Jun 4, 2015

bzzt3421 said:
Understandable, annoying but understandable. As long as they aren't going to every news outlet in sight, crying about how I'm selling the Taurian people out for cash, then it will keep.

No, just subtle attempts to bring your experience and breeding into question.

Sigh, let me get that check book.

And... done!

Hmm, yeah, fair enough.

Doesn't mean you can't spend, just don't blow it all on something insane like "WARSHIPS FOR EVERYONE!"

Good, I'll be looking forward to it.

Okay. Remind me later.

Hmm, well I know I good deal when I spot one, so the line is theirs.

They're pleased.

Okay makes sense, for now though, even if it is useless. Until we can either get another memory core with a reader(how likely is that to happen?) or convince a Inner Sphere state to help us out, this looks like the only method we've got. For now anyway, still I know a white elephant when I see one. I'll let the question of extra funding for the project drop for now.

Heh. Considering this is mostly black funding you don't get much flak. Though there are concerns that you might be giving up the technological advantage to the Sphereoids

And I'm very interested in selling them, as long as I know they'll won't be used against us. And with that note, while I know that the raiding between our two nations has never been as heavy, as the raiding between the Successor States, I would appreciate it if your diplomat would propose to us an offer to stop the raiding on the side of the Davions, which we would respond with a counter offer to stop raiding on behalf of the Concordat. A bit unorthodox in having the stronger side make the initial offer, but it make it easier for me to get my people to go along with it, as well as providing a good first step on convincing the Concordat that their view of the FedSuns as this giant tiger that sits on the boarder waiting to pounce and devour us all, is wrong. Once that believe that, it would be easier to convince them to actually sell to the new FedCom. Still, I understand if this would equally cause trouble with your own people, so consider it only an idea.

The offer is made. Frankly Hanse Davion could do with ONE peaceful border.

Well if if I've still got the money and the time, see if my generals like the idea of approaching Quickscell to buy a license and the tooling necessary to start producing their LRM/SRM carriers, and the Manticore heavy tank. Seeing as we currently lack any non mech/fighter based fire support aside from the Hunter, or a heavy tank of our own. Though obviously we'll need to insist on it being operated by our own people, as we've got a maintain our reputation of the Taurian Standard.

They can't license the Manti. The Carriers though, they make a counter offer of building a factory in the concordant.

katar said:
Jack Calderon 3011
And how much forces will they be able to gather this way? The reason i picked the Guards was they are a focused force and all part of the same command. I ask the Marshals to explain how a patchwork unit can do better.

Well, never said ALL the guards had to stay at home and frankly this way you're not bending over with your ass in the air asking for an assault to your rear.

Yes they are. I want them to sneak in get the lay of the land, and set up to capture jumpers when the army arrives in force.

No. They're not. They're not explorers, they're not scouts. They do not specialize in walking blindly into the unknown. They're special forces with a narrow focus to which they've completely dedicated themselves. They the best at one thing: zero-g bordering and combat. Tell them when you either have a target found, or have a target location in mind to set up an ambush.

Then yee ole random picks out of the pile it is. Look for those prospects close to my age or a older, and dodge those younger as much as i can. Other than that, I wont be picky on where the lady is from or her station.

Or youcould start by giving the GM some goddamned criteria of what you're looking for so he can start to come up with girls who make sense. HINT.

drakensis said:
Kaede Kanzaki-Calderon (23), 3011

The learning curve for this sort of thing is notoriously bloody. And I'm not going to dip foot in tactical matters - only strategy and logistics and that with plenty of advice.

Still, they'd rather you didn't learn those lessons using elite formations.

How would you feel about getting a masters degree in military history? At the École Militaire.

If I didn't have concerns about his might then I'd not be entering into a foreign alliance against him.

He wanted quaking and scraping and begging for mercy and protection from your betters.

Then by all means ask them.

One they hear what you're planning on doing, they're all for it. they want unrestricted colonization rights to the cluster and financial aid to do it, but they'll give you their best.

[dice]1853[/dice]

The TDF grows by 6 ASF squadrons!

A degree of discretion seems in order. Have someone senior in the military greet them at the space port and take them to the estate. They and their escort get housed in a guest house or wing of the building distinct from that which I'm occupying.

Alright.

Unless they specifically want some other arrangement, start out with a quiet dinner for the two of them plus an aide each and myself and 1-3 advisors (assuming protocol advisors agree this is reasonable). Not a formal dinner, something relatively private so we can talk frankly if they're so inclined.

A couple advisers might make sense for the first meeting, but no more than 6-7 people total to keep the meeting intimate.

Anyways from what you've seen from them as you haven not had a formal meeting yet, Ian is dashing and actually shockingly good-natured and friendly while Hanse is intelligent and witty.

How do you want to do the first formal meeting?

bzzt3421 · Jun 4, 2015

Psyckosama said:
No, just subtle attempts to bring your experience and breeding into question.

Yes, they are all going to be phased out in the next five years, because I do not want to have to put with that in my council.

And... done!

Doesn't mean you can't spend, just don't blow it all on something insane like "WARSHIPS FOR EVERYONE!"

Okay. Remind me later.

Good.
OOC: *Hanse* YOU GET A WARSHIP! *Katrina* AND YOU GET A WARSHIP! *Janos*AND YOU GET A WARSHIP! *Takashi, and Max*
AND NO WAY IN HELL!
Will do.

They're pleased.

And so am I, three new solid medium mech lines and an okay heavy one opening up outta help round our mech forces, and increase our export profits a bit. (I did get the Merlin line set right? Here and in the Magistracy? As a show of diplomatic intentions towards peace and cooperation between our three nations.)

Heh. Considering this is mostly black funding you don't get much flak. Though there are concerns that you might be giving up the technological advantage to the Sphereoids

They're not the only ones concerned, but in terms of sheer resources, the Sphereoids just have more to throw at this. We could try to match them, but that's a losing game. Just going to have to pray to lucky with the core, and start training up the TMI to take advantage of the Inner Sphere's 'luck.'

The offer is made. Frankly Hanse Davion could do with ONE peaceful border.

Yes that would be nice. Once I've received, I issue the order to my generals that were will be no raids, official, non-official, TDF or personal planetary forces. I'd like to keep the boarders nice and quiet. Especially if this proves to be lasting. As that would mean we finally have some freed up units to lance two annoying boils on our a rear. *stares at the Tortuga Dominion and Pirate Haven clusters on the map*

They can't license the Manti. The Carriers though, they make a counter offer of building a factory in the concordant.

Damn, fine. Going to need to talk with my people about insuring the final product is at our standards then theirs. I understand that they're one of the busiest and largest companies in the Sphere, but still. It is lot more then accidents at this point.

drakensis · Jun 4, 2015

Kaede Kanzaki-Calderon (23), 3011

Psyckosama said:
Still, they'd rather you didn't learn those lessons using elite formations.

How would you feel about getting a masters degree in military history? At the École Militaire.

I'm not opposed to the notion if it can be fitted into my schedule without displacing little things like sleeping.

Psyckosama said:
He wanted quaking and scraping and begging for mercy and protection from your betters.

He's never actually met a Taurian, has he?

Psyckosama said:
One they hear what you're planning on doing, they're all for it. they want unrestricted colonization rights to the cluster and financial aid to do it, but they'll give you their best.

Given we already have some notion of the interior and would want to maintain a force there to avoid pirates just moving back in, that isn't especially unreasonable. (Unless there are far too many zeros in the financial aid they expect). It's a deal.

Psyckosama said:
The TDF grows by 6 ASF squadrons!

Post them to appropriate worlds.

Psyckosama said:
A couple advisers might make sense for the first meeting, but no more than 6-7 people total to keep the meeting intimate.

Anyways from what you've seen from them as you haven not had a formal meeting yet, Ian is dashing and actually shockingly good-natured and friendly while Hanse is intelligent and witty.

How do you want to do the first formal meeting?

The next morning, large conference room with myself and my advisors on one side and them on the other side with their staffs. Plenty of facilities to take breaks with so the advisors can talk between themselves without everyone listening in.

Since Prince Ian requested the meeting, he can present his case first.

fitzgerald · Jun 4, 2015

Psyckosama said:
I'm pleased. So how well liked is the T-model Shadowhawk.

The Standard IMHO was badly undergunned. This one, while lacking the SRM has a reasonable Anti-Infantry capability and an all energy based primary weapons loadout with enough sinks that a capable pilot will be able to keep it running cool as long as they use good judgement.

This is 3025, people are desperate enough for Mechs that Wasps and Stingers are pressed into service as front line units.

An up-armored (+1 ton), more maneuverable (its now 5/8/5), with better close range punch (less crit seekers though) all at the cost of running hot when alpha striking whilst jumping Shadow Hawk is making the Mech Warriors on the list to receive one quite happy.

"And my friends, I think we have a name. Because a vague disclaimer is noone's friend."

There's a bit of disappointment the internal name being butted around was "SWAG" Carrier, because as one female engineer remarked with a grin "It has a really big gun and enough ammo to keeping going and going and going"

I invite her to the palace. If she has any other bright ideas I'd like to hear them. I'm open minded.

Subaltern Ferguson, who might be a bit of cute pixie physically, is a thoroughly earnest and very well organized young woman who is entirely flattered by your invitation. From her personal jacket the comments indicate that if she stays in the TDF Sarah going to be pushed hard in the direction of Staff training. She not only knows how to juggle people and get things organized but also has a sharp eye for noticing patterns. Really it was your focus on the Hermes semi modular nature that lead her to doing a bit of brief research on similar Star League projects.

See, that just translates in my mind to "Build Moar Factories"

So I do.

I'd also like to invite Kara Avellar to give them a try.

The various weapons manufacturers in the TC are perfectly happy to take your governments money to build more lines. The next group to leap on the one shot missiles is the Bug Mech crowd who actually enjoy being able to fire from a distance before running away.

Kara's response unlike most the TDF's pilots is "Hot damn these will be useful for anti dropship missions!" instead of the more generalized "Oh Happy Day! Shiny and Chrome!"

Make the downgrade. The Charger and Banshee are both perfectly respectable assault mechs once you give them a decent engine that doesn't weigh more than a house.

Any redesign that removes PPCs from a 'mech should be swiftly reconsidered.

Personally I'm not fond of multiple vast banks of LRMs outside fire support mechs.

Plans are easy to adjust at this stage and no time is added for a 3/5 Banshee. Practically speaking the quick sketch design was going for a "Pound them with LRMs, then Laser the remains to death" design. But if the Protector wants an Awesome-Banshee they will deliver.

"Didn't you know?" I smirk, "Militaries revise their uniforms all the time and as the Protector I have sway over the equipment used by the TDF. I think we're going to be adopting a slightly more... comfort oriented dress uniform rather soon."

*wink*

Eve just rolls her eyes and you get a memo the next day with a brief overview of the history of the TDFs alterations to Dress Uniforms over the centuries (minimal) and a note on how a previous Protector who was also an active duty Mechwarrior wore the Field Uniform at almost all times.

Being cut for the field said Uniform is in fact much more comfortable, has multiple pockets, and deep burgundy color works looks good on you.

"That's why you occasionally say nice fox and throw him a doggy treat."

People are still doubtful but you are the Protector.

5-10 years depending on international political and military climate. That said, if things are close to canon the early 3030s should be a decent to do an up-swell.

The hard core Farlookers are thinking 5, but even then you can always cut them loose to go explore and survey, then send them back for even more detailed studies to soak up even more time

"Might change the name entirely. Lets be honest. Badlands Cluster is accurate doesn't exactly envoke the desire to move there. Haven is just so much more... optimistic. Kind of how 'Greenland' on earth is actually an inhospitable iceball while Iceland is a shockingly hospitable volcanic island."

I take a sip of my drink. "If I ever hear of a planet called Happyworld I'm going to be expecting that the capitol, the twin cities of Joy and Optimism, will be located in the descriptively named 'Valley of Skulls', divided by the crimson waters of the Blood River, and having a scenic view of the jagged, firey, obsidian peaks of Mount Doom."

Laughter follows and later a few suggestions cross your desk including the Sapphire Cluster (for the visual effect of the stars on the cluster itself), Zarantha Cluster, and New Hope Cluster

"You know, if you were 30 years younger I'd probably have you bent over table by now."

"Oh really" Fyodor purrs obviously taking this as a challenge, while a mature lady (think Julie Andrews) she quickly manages to get your trousers down and demonstrate that old age and experience can provide a rather mind blowing experience.

I arrange for a plant to be built on one of our more secure worlds that doesn't already have massive industrial interests. I allow the lords to put in bids with Wells.

I also sit them down with my contacts from Robinson who are VERY interested in setting up factories.

Once Hat in the Ring and Wells both arrive in the TC Stewart Bell has already worked out most of the basics of the "Challenger", he quickly falls in with the Wells engineers and details on how to manufacture it get worked out by June 3026.

Wells Tech is actually happy to license the Challenger to Robinson Mech Works, and at the same time Bowie Industries puts in a request for a license to produce the Challenger in the Lyran Commanwealth. .... Something about a Trooper Mech to work alongside other Light Mechs like the Zeus

On the same note, I'd like to talk to wells about what to do with the 400 engine. I have no intention of producing the (useless) stock charger so we might as well find a profitable peacetime use for the engine. It's one of the most powerful mobile fusion reactors ever built. How about a mobile power plant for up and coming colonies?

"We've got the plans to produce a LTV 400 line, but its going to be pricey as heck to build one" Wells Technology answers, and they are right at the $1 Billion C-Bill price tag. Another reason it seems the Combine wasn't too concerned about Wells Technology moving from the Combine, the Charger has a fearsome sunk cost to it in the form of a LTV 400 line. Ah the things the Star League could get way with building by throwing endless amounts of Periphery tax dollars at projects the bastards.

Okay. The name "Pleasure Gardens" doesn't have me fighting down a raging boner. Nope. Not at all.

Mental Note: Read the Kama Sutra (again) and catch up on my Yoga...

Sajal's baited her hook well then. One detail you remember from your briefing packet on her was that apart from being a Yoga enthusiast she's also an utter fiend for Cricket along with the rest of her planetary population. That the Duro's own the planetary leagues broadcaster and present the annual championship trophy is the only thing that stops her from having a declared favorite local team.

I let her know that I have no great love for Max Liao and I'd be open to a cooperative defense pact against outside aggression.

Louise is in fact quite happy to hear this and will convey this to her mother. An exceptionally bright young woman you get the further impression that as one of the youngest siblings that she works exceptionally hard to get noticed but seems somewhat brittle, no doubt where rumors of her temper come from.

I'm polite, friendly, and respectful. I do mention the shipyards at her homeworld and mention that maybe we could cooperate in rebuilding our jumpship production capabilities together. Shared experience. Some things transcend national borders.

In reality I'd really like to get some people in there to study even a damaged SLDF jumpship yard, but I do not say that.

And I totally didn't give her at bottom a gentle rub at any point in the dance.

Nope. Not at all.

Famke smiles easily and shares her rather positive assessment of Taurus as an advanced, sophisticated world. She also totally doesn't move in extremely tight against you after a gentle rub.

No, but he does grab some drinks that happen to be very close to the ruler of victoria...

And I'm going to want to request a copy of her full bio.

Honestly IC I'd have wanted one for all the girls... before the party to make sure I didn't... well... stick it in crazy and knew how to pull their strings

You've gotten one, all of them aren't crazy. The 'Avoid List' you were briefed on as well, but TMI has specialists politely keeping them away from you if necessary .

Lady Kelly is wearing a silvery cat suit that she seems to have poured her gymnast body into, its an absolutely piece of art, decorated in an ultra fine brocade of metallic wire over white leather. The plunging neck line (all the way to her navel) presents a tempting view, while her right arm is even more amazing.

A literal piece of art, her prosthetic arm is captivating with its fine filigree work and utterly smooth and dexterous movements as she makes gestures to go along with a hunting story. Her brilliant cascade of auburn hair that reaches her rear, shimmers with golden highlights.

Done!

And I'd like to make a review program for dispossessed mechwarriors and pilots. How does this sound?

They join the TDF. After 20 years of loyal service from them (or their children if they are too told to serve 20 years), combined with a oath of fielty to the Taurian Concordant, they will be given a small landhold in the Colonies or an established world depending on the situation and desires of the local leaderships (whom they must also swear fidelity to) and be permitted to keep the 'mech.

All involved will be reviewed in their training, ability, and how they lost their mechs. If the program is successful it might be opened up to others who have the ability and are looking to honorably earn a 'mech or ASF

[/quote]

TDF planners point out that odds are good the majority are going to be handed a Bug mech, and those are notoriously fragile in heavy combat. Still they place a few talent scouts on Galetea to sort through the Dispossessed for real gems

Psyckosama · Jun 4, 2015

bzzt3421 said:
Yes, they are all going to be phased out in the next five years, because I do not want to have to put with that in my council.

Alright. Can do.

Good.
OOC: *Hanse* YOU GET A WARSHIP! *Katrina* AND YOU GET A WARSHIP! *Janos*AND YOU GET A WARSHIP! *Takashi, and Max*
AND NO WAY IN HELL!
Will do.

Scary thing is as long as you kept small and didn't go for anything with KF batteries you probably could afford 3 of 'em...

And so am I, three new solid medium mech lines and an okay heavy one opening up outta help round our mech forces, and increase our export profits a bit. (I did get the Merlin line set right? Here and in the Magistracy? As a show of diplomatic intentions towards peace and cooperation between our three nations.)

Two solid new lines. You have the merlin, the magistracy doesn't.

They're not the only ones concerned, but in terms of sheer resources, the Sphereoids just have more to throw at this. We could try to match them, but that's a losing game. Just going to have to pray to lucky with the core, and start training up the TMI to take advantage of the Inner Sphere's 'luck.'

You get nods. TMI will double up its efforts.

Yes that would be nice. Once I've received, I issue the order to my generals that were will be no raids, official, non-official, TDF or personal planetary forces. I'd like to keep the boarders nice and quiet. Especially if this proves to be lasting. As that would mean we finally have some freed up units to lance two annoying boils on our a rear. *stares at the Tortuga Dominion and Pirate Haven clusters on the map*

Tortuga is a bit of a ways away and tends to be more the Federated Suns problem than yours. Haven on the otherhand is right next door...

Damn, fine. Going to need to talk with my people about insuring the final product is at our standards then theirs. I understand that they're one of the busiest and largest companies in the Sphere, but still. It is lot more then accidents at this point.

They'll station inspectors.

On the bright side, local scorpion production will allow for a mass expansion of the civil militas

drakensis said:
Kaede Kanzaki-Calderon (23), 3011

I'm not opposed to the notion if it can be fitted into my schedule without displacing little things like sleeping.

Sleep? You're the Protector now. You need to evolve beyond sleep.

But they will make the time for part time classes.

He's never actually met a Taurian, has he?

He's probably never met anyone who didn't kiss his ass for a living (or to stay alive) before.

Given we already have some notion of the interior and would want to maintain a force there to avoid pirates just moving back in, that isn't especially unreasonable. (Unless there are far too many zeros in the financial aid they expect). It's a deal.

They supply several of their best ships. Though they want TDF forces along with for defenses.

Post them to appropriate worlds.

The TDF does so.

The next morning, large conference room with myself and my advisors on one side and them on the other side with their staffs. Plenty of facilities to take breaks with so the advisors can talk between themselves without everyone listening in.

Since Prince Ian requested the meeting, he can present his case first.

Ian would like to sign a non-aggression pact with the Concordant. While he understands that you will never give up your claims to the worlds lost during the Unification Wars... and even will admit that that idologically, it was was one of the Federated Suns darkest hours, he would like to have at least for now an agreement set that the current borders will remain fixed. Your troops will stay on your side, his on his. No wars. No raids. No nonsense. Just peace.

Your people live free lives, able to be true to themselves and their beliefs, limited only by their personal reach and ability. He respects that and to him that is the true measure of a civilized people. He loathes the Capallan Confederation, he considered the Draconis Combine to be monsters, but the Taurian Concordant? He respects the Taurian people and finds your way of life dignified and honorable.

He'd rather focus his energy on people who NEED to be stopped for the sake of all that is righteous and honorable in this world. He has no desire to perpetuate centuries old grudged caused by the dishonorable actions of men and woman who've long since been reduced to dust.

fitzgerald said:
This is 3025, people are desperate enough for Mechs that Wasps and Stingers are pressed into service as front line units.

True. But I'm hoping my industrialization spree will help with it. As will reverse engineering the Toro. A nice trooper light is always a good thing.

Say, would it be possible to get an Urbanmech line cheap? I have some ideas for that chassis too.

An up-armored (+1 ton), more maneuverable (its now 5/8/5), with better close range punch (less crit seekers though) all at the cost of running hot when alpha striking whilst jumping Shadow Hawk is making the Mech Warriors on the list to receive one quite happy.

How did it gets the armor and maneuverability?

There's a bit of disappointment the internal name being butted around was "SWAG" Carrier, because as one female engineer remarked with a grin "It has a really big gun and enough ammo to keeping going and going and going"

"I like that name too... hm... decisions decisions."

Subaltern Ferguson, who might be a bit of cute pixie physically, is a thoroughly earnest and very well organized young woman who is entirely flattered by your invitation. From her personal jacket the comments indicate that if she stays in the TDF Sarah going to be pushed hard in the direction of Staff training. She not only knows how to juggle people and get things organized but also has a sharp eye for noticing patterns. Really it was your focus on the Hermes semi modular nature that lead her to doing a bit of brief research on similar Star League projects.

I must not seduce my underlings.

I must not seduce my underlings!

But after a nice solid background check (making sure she's not a plant) I do bring her in on some of my procurement plans as basically a dogsbody/proverbial 5 year old adviser. I need some one grounded to occasionally pull out the spray bottle and she just volunteered.

The various weapons manufacturers in the TC are perfectly happy to take your governments money to build more lines. The next group to leap on the one shot missiles is the Bug Mech crowd who actually enjoy being able to fire from a distance before running away.

Nice. Speaking of one shot missiles, how's the Rocket Launcher program doing?

Kara's response unlike most the TDF's pilots is "Hot damn these will be useful for anti dropship missions!" instead of the more generalized "Oh Happy Day! Shiny and Chrome!"

I discuss their use with her. One thing that struck me with them was to use them to soften up enemy formations before closing in for a dogfight.

Plans are easy to adjust at this stage and no time is added for a 3/5 Banshee. Practically speaking the quick sketch design was going for a "Pound them with LRMs, then Laser the remains to death" design. But if the Protector wants an Awesome-Banshee they will deliver.

I don't want awesome-Banshee. More something a bit more focused in its mission profile, thats all.

Call it a bias but I think that multiple large banks of LRMs are best kept to fire support mechs whose job it is to stay far away from the enemy and provide tactical fire support.

Plus we already have a "It's totally not an awesome" in the form of the Challenger, which is pretty much a Laser Awesome.

Eve just rolls her eyes and you get a memo the next day with a brief overview of the history of the TDFs alterations to Dress Uniforms over the centuries (minimal) and a note on how a previous Protector who was also an active duty Mechwarrior wore the Field Uniform at almost all times.

Being cut for the field said Uniform is in fact much more comfortable, has multiple pockets, and deep burgundy color works looks good on you.

Field Uniform it is!

People are still doubtful but you are the Protector.

Fair enough. I just happen to have knowledge they don't.

The hard core Farlookers are thinking 5, but even then you can always cut them loose to go explore and survey, then send them back for even more detailed studies to soak up even more time

Exploration and survey are not limited as long as they understand I'm not going to be bankrolling all their efforts. In fact I'd rather they focus on survey and exploration during the consolidation cycles. Keep them busy and allows for a more aggressive colonization push during the settlement cycles. Get those worlds somewhere close to self-sustaining ASAP.

Laughter follows and later a few suggestions cross your desk including the Sapphire Cluster (for the visual effect of the stars on the cluster itself), Zarantha Cluster, and New Hope Cluster

"How about a vote?" I reply. "Let the people choose. Be a good celebration of our victory I'd think."

"Oh really" Fyodor purrs obviously taking this as a challenge, while a mature lady (think Julie Andrews) she quickly manages to get your trousers down and demonstrate that old age and experience can provide a rather mind blowing experience.

"Aged like a fine wine..."

Once Hat in the Ring and Wells both arrive in the TC Stewart Bell has already worked out most of the basics of the "Challenger", he quickly falls in with the Wells engineers and details on how to manufacture it get worked out by June 3026.

I award him a minor noble title for his efforts and a small personal land hold. The Hat in the Ring also get to keep the prototypes with my respects.

Wells Tech is actually happy to license the Challenger to Robinson Mech Works, and at the same time Bowie Industries puts in a request for a license to produce the Challenger in the Lyran Commanwealth. .... Something about a Trooper Mech to work alongside other Light Mechs like the Zeus

Up to Wells, ultimately, but as long as they first batches are deployed to the Combine border, I'm generally positive.

I'd like to buy into Wells too. This looks like a moneymaker. A good assault line always is a decent investment.

Speaking of assault lines. How hard would it be to get a couple late model Mackies? Once upon a time the damned things were everywhere, and the weapons loadout on the final generation model was pretty damned nice.

And their design simple enough that it's probably very well suited to reproduction. God knows the entire innersphere and periphery reverse engineered the damned things.

"We've got the plans to produce a LTV 400 line, but its going to be pricey as heck to build one" Wells Technology answers, and they are right at the $1 Billion C-Bill price tag. Another reason it seems the Combine wasn't too concerned about Wells Technology moving from the Combine, the Charger has a fearsome sunk cost to it in the form of a LTV 400 line. Ah the things the Star League could get way with building by throwing endless amounts of Periphery tax dollars at projects the bastards.

... Take your time. Seriously.

Though I bet once they see the first Challengers coming at them from both sides, they'll regret that little decision.

Sajal's baited her hook well then. One detail you remember from your briefing packet on her was that apart from being a Yoga enthusiast she's also an utter fiend for Cricket along with the rest of her planetary population. That the Duro's own the planetary leagues broadcaster and present the annual championship trophy is the only thing that stops her from having a declared favorite local team.

Yeah, women are my kryptonite. I will freely admit it.

Not much of a cricket person though. But everyone has their own tastes. Might want to learn enough to at least seem l know a bit if we should meet up again.

Louise is in fact quite happy to hear this and will convey this to her mother. An exceptionally bright young woman you get the further impression that as one of the youngest siblings that she works exceptionally hard to get noticed but seems somewhat brittle, no doubt where rumors of her temper come from.

I ask her what her plans for the near future are. I could use a contact with the FWL and I'm sure her mother would be interested in some of the industrial projects I intent to undertake.

Famke smiles easily and shares her rather positive assessment of Taurus as an advanced, sophisticated world. She also totally doesn't move in extremely tight against you after a gentle rub.

"Do remember my dear, that the Taurian Concordant is actually older than both the Lyran Commonwealth and Capallan Confederation. This world in culture and industry is an easy peer of any of the Successor State capitols."

You've gotten one, all of them aren't crazy. The 'Avoid List' you were briefed on as well, but TMI has specialists politely keeping them away from you if necessary .

Who was on the avoid list?

Lady Kelly is wearing a silvery cat suit that she seems to have poured her gymnast body into, its an absolutely piece of art, decorated in an ultra fine brocade of metallic wire over white leather. The plunging neck line (all the way to her navel) presents a tempting view, while her right arm is even more amazing.

Drool...

"A dance m'lady?"

A literal piece of art, her prosthetic arm is captivating with its fine filigree work and utterly smooth and dexterous movements as she makes gestures to go along with a hunting story. Her brilliant cascade of auburn hair that reaches her rear, shimmers with golden highlights.

Prosthetic arm?

TDF planners point out that odds are good the majority are going to be handed a Bug mech, and those are notoriously fragile in heavy combat. Still they place a few talent scouts on Galetea to sort through the Dispossessed for real gems

With expanded production I'm hoping that our mechwarriors will be able to be equipped more in accordance with their ability as time passes.

bzzt3421 · Jun 5, 2015

Alejandro Diaz-Calderon(19) 3031

Psyckosama said:
Alright. Can do.

And that's another load off my back.

Scary thing is as long as you kept small and didn't go for anything with KF batteries you probably could afford 3 of 'em...

OOC: There's a reason the Star League focused most their attention on Taurus during the Reunification war.

Two solid new lines. You have the merlin, the magistracy doesn't.

Right, cause we were already producing the Griffon. Whoops.
Hmph, could have sworn I'd offer the Magistracy a helping hand in setting up their own Merlin line in return for the Shadowhawk, and oh yeah, they went the Grifffon instead.

You get nods. TMI will double up its efforts.

I'd focus on the FWL, the FedCom is too big to piss off, the Dracs are bug fuck nuts, and the Cappies are right next door. Course I'll leave it up to them, seeing as they are intelligence experts.

Tortuga is a bit of a ways away and tends to be more the Federated Suns problem than yours. Haven on the otherhand is right next door...

Be a bit of coup to get that back. Something for the future at least.

They'll station inspectors.

Goodie, rather not have the LRM/SRM launchers falling off the mainbody at time of delivery.

On the bright side, local scorpion production will allow for a mass expansion of the civil militas

And if need be those expansions can be offered some governmental subsidies as needed.

Now, on to the time skip, three months right?

Psyckosama · Jun 5, 2015

bzzt3421 said:
Alejandro Diaz-Calderon(19) 3031

And that's another load off my back.

Yeah.

OOC: There's a reason the Star League focused most their attention on Taurus during the Reunification war.

And it took the combined might of the Inner Sphere YEARS to do it too.

Right, cause we were already producing the Griffon. Whoops.
Hmph, could have sworn I'd offer the Magistracy a helping hand in setting up their own Merlin line in return for the Shadowhawk, and oh yeah, they went the Grifffon instead.

Yep. You did a tit-for-tat trade of the Griffon instead. They'd probably have rather of gotten the Merlin, but this was cheaper for you.

I'd focus on the FWL, the FedCom is too big to piss off, the Dracs are bug fuck nuts, and the Cappies are right next door. Course I'll leave it up to them, seeing as they are intelligence experts.

The Cappies are nuts but really don't have much projection force these days, what with their military having been bent over a barrel by the Federated Suns only a couple years back...

Be a bit of coup to get that back. Something for the future at least.

Indeed it would be.

Goodie, rather not have the LRM/SRM launchers falling off the mainbody at time of delivery.

Noone would.

And if need be those expansions can be offered some governmental subsidies as needed.

Right.

Now, on to the time skip, three months right?

Actually you just got a visitor.

The ambassador from the Magistracy of Canopus. A middle aged woman named Kaya Centrella, a 3rd cousin of the Magestrix.

She'd like to discuss a military alliance with you. One that has major ramifications for both your nations. She's coming to you due to your recently signed agreement with the Federated Suns. This cannot wait.

bzzt3421 · Jun 5, 2015

Psyckosama said:
Yeah.

And it took the combined might of the Inner Sphere YEARS to do it too.

Yep. You did a tit-for-tat trade of the Griffon instead. They'd probably have rather of gotten the Merlin, but this was cheaper for you.

Cheaper may not always be better, it definitely helps keep the Director of the Treasury off my butt.

The Cappies are nuts but really don't have much projection force these days, what with their military having been bent over a barrel by the Federated Suns only a couple years back...

True, but the Big Mac have been doing pretty well in recovering from it. And I'd rather not push Maxie boy over the edge that Hanse put him on, and have him unleash the Mac on us. Still, if the TMI wants to try their luck.

Indeed it would be.

Noone would.

Right.

Something for the future.

Actually you just got a visitor.

The ambassador from the Magistracy of Canopus. A middle aged woman named Kaya Centrella, a 3rd cousin of the Magestrix.

She'd like to discuss a military alliance with you. One that has major ramifications for both your nations. She's coming to you due to your recently signed agreement with the Federated Suns. This cannot wait.

OOC: Well now, I wonder what this could possibly be about?

I offer Lady Centrella the formal greetings and hospitality expected for a ambassador, and then offer an invitation for a private drink with me as soon as she makes the offer of an military alliance.

"Now then my lady, seeing as we're alone, why don't we discuss these major ramifications you mentioned?"

Psyckosama · Jun 5, 2015

bzzt3421 said:
Cheaper may not always be better, it definitely helps keep the Director of the Treasury off my butt.

Yep... and you're still getting the same. And this way they have to buy Merlins exported by the Concordant which means you get a percentage. Good times.

True, but the Big Mac have been doing pretty well in recovering from it. And I'd rather not push Maxie boy over the edge that Hanse put him on, and have him unleash the Mac on us. Still, if the TMI wants to try their luck.

All else fails... if they attack the Concordant you'll be well within your rights to nuke them and he has a feeling that everyone except house Liao... well...

Something for the future.

I offer Lady Centrella the formal greetings and hospitality expected for a ambassador, and then offer an invitation for a private drink with me as soon as she makes the offer of an military alliance.

"Now then my lady, seeing as we're alone, why don't we discuss these major ramifications you mentioned?"

As you know, The Magistracy of Canopus and Duchy of Andurien are currently at war with the Capallan Confederation. She would like the Taurian Concordant to join in the conflict as an ally.

She approached the previous protector with this offer and was declined in the face of "Imminent Davion Aggression". She'd like to know if you're willing to be more reasonable. She does note that the Confederation does currently control a former Taurian System.

Psyckosama · Jun 5, 2015

Just read brush wars. Need to edit my last post.

bzzt3421 · Jun 5, 2015

Alejandro Diaz-Calderon(19) 3031

Psyckosama said:
Yep... and you're still getting the same. And this way they have to buy Merlins exported by the Concordant which means you get a percentage. Good times.

Money may not be the key to happiness, but it makes a good lockpick.

All else fails... if they attack the Concordant you'll be well within your rights to nuke them and he has a feeling that everyone except house Liao... well...

Something for the future.

Well, it's not like we signed the Ares Conventions after all.

As you know, The Magistracy of Canopus and Duchy of Andurien are currently at war with the Capallan Confederation. She would like the Taurian Concordant to join in the conflict as an ally.

She approached the previous protector with this offer and was declined in the face of "Imminent Davion Aggression". She'd like to know if you're willing to be more reasonable. She does note that the Confederation does currently control a former Taurian System.

"That is very tempting offer, one that if the circumstance of my ascension to the position of Protector had been different, I wouldn't be as nearly as hesitant to accept. Especially as I've haven't had the same amount of time to prepare as you've and the Duchess seem to. Though I must admit, that given the setbacks you're forces are currently facing, and the recent political changes in the FWL that indicate they'll soon be entering the war to reclaim the Duchy, makes me even more hesitant to act. So tell me ambassador, exactly what kind of guarantee can you give me, that this isn't just a ploy on the part of your cousin, to relieve the pressure on her forces, by sacrificing the Concordat's men and women to the Confederation?"

Psyckosama · Jun 5, 2015

bzzt3421 said:
Alejandro Diaz-Calderon(19) 3031

Money may not be the key to happiness, but it makes a good lockpick.

Very true.

Well, it's not like we signed the Ares Conventions after all.

No, not its not...

"That is very tempting offer, one that if the circumstance of my ascension to the position of Protector had been different, I wouldn't be as nearly as hesitant to accept. Especially as I've haven't had the same amount of time to prepare as you've and the Duchess seem to. Though I must admit, that given the setbacks you're forces are currently facing, and the recent political changes in the FWL that indicate they'll soon be entering the war to reclaim the Duchy, makes me even more hesitant to act. So tell me ambassador, exactly what kind of guarantee can you give me, that this isn't just a ploy on the part of your cousin, to relieve the pressure on her forces, by sacrificing the Concordat's men and women to the Confederation?"

She blinks. "Do you know something I don't? While it is true that we have bogged down on Betelgeuse and Grand Base, it is our hope that an additional front will break the Capallan's resolve allowing us to break out, and as they have had to strip much of their border to free up additional assets, you would be able to make significant gains against them almost uninterrupted before they can bring forces against you. As for the Free World's League, there has been almost no response from Atreus so far beyond strongly written letters of condemnation."

bzzt3421 · Jun 5, 2015

Psyckosama said:
Very true.

No, not its not...

She blinks. "Do you know something I don't? While it is true that we have bogged down on Betelgeuse and Grand Base, it is our hope that an additional front will break the Capallan's resolve allowing us to break out, and as they have had to strip much of their border to free up additional assets, you would be able to make significant gains against them almost uninterrupted before they can bring forces against you. As for the Free World's League, unless you know something we do not, there has been almost no response from Atreus so far."

"I admit that currently, while Janos has yet to force the issue militarily, his little Internal Emergency Act that's he forced through his parliment, has given the old dog a new set of fangs. In essence, he's finally stripped the Home Defense Act of most of it's power, and is now, if I'm reading right, consolidating his new found military power in order to be fully prepared when he finally acts to recover the Duchy of Andurien.

I estimate that your forces and the Duchy's have about, two, maybe three years before Janos fully slams into the Duchess's rear. At which point, unless you've actually managed to completely break the Confederation, you might be in for a bit of trouble.

Still, I must admit that the temptation is there. So what i would like before agreeing to enter the war, is an guarantee that the Concordat will in fact receive control and ownership of new planets, regardless of the outcome on our end. To whit, I would like it if the Magistracy of Canopus would formally cede, say all the planets from Detroit spinward in the New Colony region to the Concordat?"

Psyckosama · Jun 5, 2015

bzzt3421 said:
"I admit that currently, while Janos has yet to force the issue militarily, his little Internal Emergency Act that's he forced through his parliment, has given the old dog a new set of fangs. In essence, he's finally stripped the Home Defense Act of most of it's power, and is now, if I'm reading right, consolidating his new found military power in order to be fully prepared when he finally acts to recover the Duchy of Andurien.

I estimate that your forces and the Duchy's have about, two, maybe three years before Janos fully slams into the Duchess's rear. At which point, unless you've actually managed to completely break the Confederation, you might be in for a bit of trouble.

She frowns. "I'm not sure if I agree with the accuracy of your assessment but I will forward it to my superiors."

Still, I must admit that the temptation is there. So what i would like before agreeing to enter the war, is an guarantee that the Concordat will in fact receive control and ownership of new planets, regardless of the outcome on our end. To whit, I would like it if the Magistracy of Canopus would formally cede, say all the planets from Detroit spinward in the New Colony region to the Concordat?"

The New Colony Region hasn't been formed yet... and the space spinward of Herotitus is traditionally Taurian.

drakensis · Jun 5, 2015

Kaede Kanzaki-Calderon (23), 3011

Psyckosama said:
Sleep? You're the Protector now. You need to evolve beyond sleep.

I'm not going to buy into the idea that ruling over a state makes me superhuman.

Psyckosama said:
But they will make the time for part time classes.

Okay then.

Psyckosama said:
He's probably never met anyone who didn't kiss his ass for a living (or to stay alive) before.

But enough about his marriages.

Psyckosama said:
They supply several of their best ships. Though they want TDF forces along with for defenses.

Absolutely.

Psyckosama said:
The TDF does so.

Hopefully that screws with the dropships of any pirate raids.

Psyckosama said:
Ian would like to sign a non-aggression pact with the Concordant. While he understands that you will never give up your claims to the worlds lost during the Unification Wars... and even will admit that that idologically, it was was one of the Federated Suns darkest hours, he would like to have at least for now an agreement set that the current borders will remain fixed. Your troops will stay on your side, his on his. No wars. No raids. No nonsense. Just peace.

Your people live free lives, able to be true to themselves and their beliefs, limited only by their personal reach and ability. He respects that and to him that is the true measure of a civilized people. He loathes the Capallan Confederation, he considered the Draconis Combine to be monsters, but the Taurian Concordant? He respects the Taurian people and finds your way of life dignified and honorable.

He'd rather focus his energy on people who NEED to be stopped for the sake of all that is righteous and honorable in this world. He has no desire to perpetuate centuries old grudged caused by the dishonorable actions of men and woman who've long since been reduced to dust.

I'm willing to sign a non-aggression pact with the Federated Suns on the grounds that the contested worlds have been in possession of the Federated Suns (and occasionally Capellan Confederation in a few cases) so many generations that any attempt to reclaim them would face significant local opposition, besides the confrontation with armed forces significantly larger than those of the Concordat. Whether I like those facts or not, they remain true and not having to expend resources to raid the Suns and rebuild damage caused by AFFS raids is overall of benefit to the Concordat.

In addition, I've had the opportunity to begin by reign with a very precise demonstration of how Chancellor Liao sees my people and that rather supports Ian's view of them. Nor am I particularly enamoured of the Draconis Combine although I have much less experience of them.

I will also raise the prospect of trade in non-military goods across our borders as I believe Taurian industries would benefit from access to untapped markets and the people of the Outback might find their lives improved by being able to ship in certain manufactured goods from factories that are rather closer to them.

In addition I'll suggest that I've information regarding Combine activity I'd be willing to share (the Halstead Station supply depot 'coincidentally' over an old Star League era university) in exchange for permission to approach Blackwell Industries about collaberation on their project to build a larger and more powerful Marauder (the MAD-4A http://www.sarna.net/wiki/Marauder_II#Variants).

fitzgerald · Jun 5, 2015

Samantha Calderon (20) April 3025

Psyckosama said:
He grins. "A closer relationship with the Taurian Concordant would be nice. Though I do like the idea of a pact against the Cappies. While my brother is technically their ally, I'd very much rather border the Federated Suns and Concordant than the damned Capallan Confederation. While I have no love for the Lyrans, at least they're civilized folk lead by a civilized woman. Max Liao is an animal."

"Which makes me wonder what Comstar promised or what leverage they have to make your Uncle accept the deal. Given it was the Liao's who blatantly sponsored Antons rebellion....." Samantha trailed off.

{response}

"However that still doesn't answer my question. What does Duncan Marik desire from the Concordat and its Protector?" Samantha inquired huskily.

The response is totally unshaken. The man is a stone. And he is willing to send a female ambassador if that is what you wish.

Samantha is more than happy to receive a female ambassador

78 and going strong as an Ox. He's also on his 3rd wife who is 21 and has 16 kids. He's pretty much the Battletech version of Walder Frey if Walder Frey was an eccentric but fundamentally good natured dirty old man instead of a complete and utter weasel

Here's a picture

Ecstatic. He invites you to join him and Barbs (his latest wife and former Miss Concordant 3019) at this Vacation Villa should you ever need to take a load off and get away from it all.

So in short nothing like Walder Frey at all:

Samantha inducts James into her inner circle of advisers, the old goat no doubt knows all the local politics. As for his vacation villa, well when Samantha finally has her feet under and the situation has calmed down enough she's going to tour the Concordat. A scheduled week or two off with James and Barbs sound ideal.

It'll take a couple months for the offers to get in full. Everyone is joining in on the fun.

Not as if Samantha's holdings won't benefit. She no doubt has stock in the armor and weapons manufacturers as well.

Fuel Cell.

These are the latest and greatest in the Commonwealth. In fact they're technically not even released yet and are still in the prototype stages.

The general consensus is that Defiance Industries wants to study your Fuel Cell drive train technology for possible incorporation into the two designs. Right now they're Fusion Driven, but would gain a net performance boost if switched over to Fuel Cells as they use a predominately ammunition based weapons loadout.

They're more acting as an intermediary for Defiance who are offering the Concordant a license to produce natively once its finalized.

TMI's guessing that this is a rather naked attempt on Defiance's behalf to say "We're totally planning on fucking you, but at least we're going to by you dinner and movie first."

Practically speaking they add two nice Heavy Tanks to the TC's production rolls. However that doesn't mean Samantha isn't going to try and squeeze a little more out of Defiance, might as well see if she can actually get an O from them as well.

Mr Vanderzham gets to relay Samantha's counter offer:

In exchange for the full specs on the Fuel Cell drive train technology (including the eventually completed Vedette data), for the Rommel and Patton Defiance Industries also throws in a License for the Sentinel as well. In turn the TC will pay for a complete copy of the tooling to be manufactured.

Samantha's thinking of going with a 3T version (sketch below)

Code:

Sentinel STN-3T
Mass: 40 tons
Tech Base: Inner Sphere
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Introductory
Era: Succession Wars
Tech Rating/Era Availability: D/X-E-D-A
Production Year: 2830
Cost: 3,214,680 C-Bills
Battle Value: 888
Chassis: Defiant V Standard
Power Plant: Pitban 240 Fusion Engine
Walking Speed: 64.8 km/h
Maximum Speed: 97.2 km/h
Jump Jets: None
Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: Valiant Lamellor Standard Armor
Armament:
1 Large Laser
1 SRM-6
1 Medium Laser
Manufacturer: Defiance Industries
Primary Factory: Hesperus II
Communications System: StarLink/Benicia Model AS829G
Targeting and Tracking System: Targa-7, Vid-Com-17
================================================================================
Equipment Type Rating Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Standard 67 points 4.00
Engine: Fusion Engine 240 11.50
Walking MP: 6
Running MP: 9
Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks: Single Heat Sink 12 2.00
Heat Sink Locations: 1 LT, 1 LL, 1 RL
Gyro: Standard 3.00
Cockpit: Standard 3.00
Actuators: L: SH+UA R: SH+UA+LA+H
Armor: Standard Armor AV - 104 6.50
Internal Armor
Structure Factor
Head 3 9
Center Torso 12 13
Center Torso (rear) 8
L/R Torso 10 11
L/R Torso (rear) 6
Left Arm 6 10
Right Arm 6 8
L/R Leg 10 11
================================================================================
Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Medium Laser RT 3 1 1.00
SRM-6 RT 4 2 3.00
Large Laser LA 8 2 5.00
@SRM-6 (15) CT - 1 1.00
Free Critical Slots: 40
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 3 Points: 9
6 2 2 0 0 2 1 Structure: 3
Special Abilities: SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA

2d6 please.

Below as ASF

And your still getting biters for the other offer. Add another 2d6 worth of batallions, though this is mostly in the form of smaller units... A couple companies. Sometimes even individual mechwarriors. You even get a number of dispossessed basically offering you their soul for a landhold and a battlemech.

Roll below.

Fufufufufu. Do they offer to lick Samantha's boots as well?

The TDF gets orders to take the Companies, Lance individuals and dispossessed through training cycles to determine A) Whose got the skills B) Those who need to Git Good.

Group A:

Individuals with a Mech get formed up into Lances and get minor landholds on the various colony worlds along with a company of crap tanks (likely QC scorpions), 4 companies of Infantry worth of APCs, assorted infantry gear, and a company worth of Engineering Equipment. Said Lances get promptly told to behave as they are now under the watchful eye of the TC.

Companies get treated a bit better, but are basically assigned to bulk out trusted TDF Battalions for five years before getting assigned to a more permanent Landhold on Colony worlds along with 3 companies of crap tanks, regiment worth of APCs and infantry gear and a battalion of Engineering Equipment.

The Dispossessed are gathered before Samantha who informs them that only Bug Mechs are available for the next year or two. She's not going to assign these brave and skilled Mechwarriors to be dispossessed after a single battle. In exchange for their oaths of loyalty she's going to make them the cadre of a new Regiment, the Calderon Highlanders, who will be equipped with real battle Mechs, mostly heavy's and heavy mediums.

Group B

The Companies and Individuals are grouped up onto one single world, Laconis. The Dispossessed get assigned Stingers and Wasps. No tanks, apcs or other gear is provided to said suckers.

Their whole goal is die well if the CapCon ever invades.

They'll slot you in but are very busy... want to send those names?

One Time Pad message

To: Colonel Jamie Wolf
From Protector Samantha Calderon

Regarding those names, they are for groups not individuals: Clan Diamond Shark, Clan Cloud Cobra, Clan Burrock.

All part of the Clan's of Kerensky.

The Dragoons are most certainly not from the Hansetic League, not to mention the presence of late SLDF Civil War designs such the Annihilator make it a logical deduction. Your forces originate from the Kerensky Cluster.

I assume additional Clans exist, no doubt Clans Lion, Tiger, and Bear exist with Wolves and Falcons as well given the general naming scheme (although what in the blazes is a Burrock).

I can deduce that the SLDF-In-Exile has evolved into the Clans of Kerensky.

What I cannot deduce is what said Clan's actually want, lacking almost all knowledge of their current culture, economy, and military capability beyond being capable of manufacturing much of the Dragoon's war gear.

Do they seek to return in fire and blood to overthrow the Successor Lords? Protect Humanity from unknown aliens? Ignore the Inner Sphere and extend humanities reach outwards?

I look forward to the answers your envoy brings.

Sincerely, Samantha Calderon.

TMI basically makes sure to use only the most utterly and fanatically reliable people. You end up with a bunch of crazed Taurian Supremacist Pro-Periphery Fanatics who hate all things Inner Sphere. Sharplin would be proud... but if this'll help the Concordant get one over on the Sphereoids they'll cut off their own limbs if they have to.

Basically the Taurian version of This Guys. They're reliable, abet completely insane.

ETA for their arrival on New Dallas?

Aramis is thoughtful but actually approves. The security of the Concordant is important and would aid in long term expansion.

"I'm also hoping they'll include specs for portable J/U water filter systems." Samantha admits honestly "From those we could go from portable units to industrial ones"

Overall cost is likely to be in the hundreds of billions. This is not a small undertaking and you're going to have to do a lot of reinventing the wheel R&D. Though being able to say, strip an existing yard for the critical parts and having design specs on hand would probably shorten things greatly.

"Tis the hope. I'll be plunging a good bit of my personal earnings into this year after year" Samantha answers honestly. "I'm hoping we can convince the Outworlders to let us poke at the Quarte Belle Yards to find bits and pieces we're missing to R&D"

They share a look. "Are you expecting Ninjas from the walls, ma'am?"

"Blackhearts in the best SLDF spook gear" Samantha replies grimly.

They share a very grim look. "Who do you think is responsible?"

"The only organization still proudly flying a *&%# Cameron Star. Comstar. They run the HPG system from Terra and with it massive amounts of data all across the Sphere. Terrans and their insatiable desire to control humanity was what lead my namesake to fleeing to the Hell's Heart, and the Hegemony to form up the Star League. " Samantha spits out in anger. "I don't doubt they planned the dropship strike to wipe out my House either. "

Now THAT is a concern they share.

Thus why it will have to be a secret yard in the first place

"Why build a station? There are plenty of perfectly good asteroids you could refit and quite a number have been pretty well mined out."

"See that's exactly why I wanted to have this conversation in the first place. I may have an end goal, but if someone can present a better path there I won't insist on my initial plan. " Samantha offers cheerfully. "So assuming we build in asteroids, and simply bill it as a TCN Fleet Base, refit yard and at most a Dropship construction site can we successfully hid the fact we are going to add on Warship slips?"

They have to completely rebuild the transmission from scratch. It'll damage parts commonality and add some extra retooling costs but little hicups like that are to be expected.

Well we take the time to do it right.

You're having a bitch of a time finding one.

Samantha nudges up the bounty a bit and lets things ride. With any luck on New Dallas she'll manage to snag the actual specs.
[dice]1871[/dice]
[dice]1872[/dice]

bzzt3421 · Jun 5, 2015

Psyckosama said:
She frowns. "I'm not sure if I agree with the accuracy of your assessment but I will forward it to my superiors."

The New Colony Region hasn't been formed yet... and the space spinward of Herotitus is traditionally Taurian.

OOC: Sorry, that was the closest term I could find to that general area.

Yes, hence why I want to expand the territory that is Taurian to Detroit. It's not like I'm asking for the entire thing, just a small expansion.

Psyckosama · Jun 5, 2015

drakensis said:
Kaede Kanzaki-Calderon (23), 3011

I'm not going to buy into the idea that ruling over a state makes me superhuman.

Well, it does give you Mary Sue powers if what we've seen so far is anything to base it off of.

Okay then.

It's a crash course. You have a feeling the unofficial name is "Keep the Schoolmarm Protector from Getting us All Killed 101"

But enough about his marriages.

And on Sian, Max Liao suddenly needs some Aloe Vera for that BURN.

Absolutely.

Good. I'll need 2d6

Hopefully that screws with the dropships of any pirate raids.

Makes life harder.

I'm willing to sign a non-aggression pact with the Federated Suns on the grounds that the contested worlds have been in possession of the Federated Suns (and occasionally Capellan Confederation in a few cases) so many generations that any attempt to reclaim them would face significant local opposition, besides the confrontation with armed forces significantly larger than those of the Concordat. Whether I like those facts or not, they remain true and not having to expend resources to raid the Suns and rebuild damage caused by AFFS raids is overall of benefit to the Concordat.

He's actually waving any permanent surrender of claims (despite his brothers whispered suggestions) and going more for an agreement that your borders, pending any future negotiations to adjust the borders.

It might not be politically a good idea, but the man actually is acting based on his sense of right and wrong. You're actually good people and frankly there are plenty of assholes out there who need to get punched in the dick. He honestly just want to leave the Concordant alone and live in peace with you.

In addition, I've had the opportunity to begin by reign with a very precise demonstration of how Chancellor Liao sees my people and that rather supports Ian's view of them. Nor am I particularly enamoured of the Draconis Combine although I have much less experience of them.

He tells you about his experiences with the Combine. Let me put it this way.... they're very much a reflection of Imperial Japan IN SPACE and leave it at that.

I will also raise the prospect of trade in non-military goods across our borders as I believe Taurian industries would benefit from access to untapped markets and the people of the Outback might find their lives improved by being able to ship in certain manufactured goods from factories that are rather closer to them.

He would like that very much.

In addition I'll suggest that I've information regarding Combine activity I'd be willing to share (the Halstead Station supply depot 'coincidentally' over an old Star League era university) in exchange for permission to approach Blackwell Industries about collaberation on their project to build a larger and more powerful Marauder (the MAD-4A http://www.sarna.net/wiki/Marauder_II#Variants).

Go right ahead. Meanwhile he needs to cut new orders for the Davion Heavy Guards... and maybe the Davion Light and Assault Guards for that matter...

He'd also like to make an offer. There's a rumor that you might be going after the Pirate's Haven. They're a pest to his people too and if you are, well, he'd be willing to lend you the aid of one of the newly redundant border guard RCTs to help burn them out.

He also offers you the backup if you ever decide to take revenge on the Big Mac. Archibald McCarron is a pain in both your asses and both your realms would benefit from lancing those boils

Oh,a nd when I had you roll for ASFs I meant WINGS not squadrons.

fitzgerald said:
Samantha Calderon (20) April 3025

"Which makes me wonder what Comstar promised or what leverage they have to make your Uncle accept the deal. Given it was the Liao's who blatantly sponsored Antons rebellion....." Samantha trailed off.

"Thomas," he snorts with contempt.

"However that still doesn't answer my question. What does Duncan Marik desire from the Concordat and its Protector?" Samantha inquired huskily.

"Simply put, you." he replies as clam as a cold winters day. "I'm not going to ply you with lies and sweet words. I believe a union between us will benefit our shared realms and ambitions."

Note, youalso get news Morgan Hanek-Davion has just arrived in system about this time...

Samantha is more than happy to receive a female ambassador

Dispatched.

So in short nothing like Walder Frey at all:

Bingo.

Samantha inducts James into her inner circle of advisers, the old goat no doubt knows all the local politics.

The randy old bastard is an encyclopedia.

As for his vacation villa, well when Samantha finally has her feet under and the situation has calmed down enough she's going to tour the Concordat. A scheduled week or two off with James and Barbs sound ideal.

Alright. Though it is a clothing optional villa. There's a reason its nicknamed "El Amor Choza"...

Not as if Samantha's holdings won't benefit. She no doubt has stock in the armor and weapons manufacturers as well.

Tons. She frankly owns a rather respectable chunk of the Taurian Economy.

Practically speaking they add two nice Heavy Tanks to the TC's production rolls. However that doesn't mean Samantha isn't going to try and squeeze a little more out of Defiance, might as well see if she can actually get an O from them as well.

Mr Vanderzham gets to relay Samantha's counter offer:

In exchange for the full specs on the Fuel Cell drive train technology (including the eventually completed Vedette data), for the Rommel and Patton Defiance Industries also throws in a License for the Sentinel as well. In turn the TC will pay for a complete copy of the tooling to be manufactured.

Samantha's thinking of going with a 3T version (sketch below)

The Sentinal? They still have the tooling around somewhere but it would take time to find as much as duplicate. Would you rather have a nice assault mech?

Below as ASF

8 Wings

Roll below.

And another 6 battalions of assorted warriors

Fufufufufu. Do they offer to lick Samantha's boots as well?

They'll lick anything she damned well wants them to if it means getting back in a control couch.

The TDF gets orders to take the Companies, Lance individuals and dispossessed through training cycles to determine A) Whose got the skills B) Those who need to Git Good.

Alright. It'll take time but it'll be done.

Group A:

Individuals with a Mech get formed up into Lances and get minor landholds on the various colony worlds along with a company of crap tanks (likely QC scorpions), 4 companies of Infantry worth of APCs, assorted infantry gear, and a company worth of Engineering Equipment. Said Lances get promptly told to behave as they are now under the watchful eye of the TC.

Most are pretty solid. Don't know much about ruling but they follow orders well enough.

Companies get treated a bit better, but are basically assigned to bulk out trusted TDF Battalions for five years before getting assigned to a more permanent Landhold on Colony worlds along with 3 companies of crap tanks, regiment worth of APCs and infantry gear and a battalion of Engineering Equipment.

Solid assignment just they hope to get hazard pay for combat situations.

The Dispossessed are gathered before Samantha who informs them that only Bug Mechs are available for the next year or two. She's not going to assign these brave and skilled Mechwarriors to be dispossessed after a single battle. In exchange for their oaths of loyalty she's going to make them the cadre of a new Regiment, the Calderon Highlanders, who will be equipped with real battle Mechs, mostly heavy's and heavy mediums.

If this is an offer to keep those mechs they almost all swear their loyalty to the Concordant. You're giving them their lives and honor back.

Group B

The Companies and Individuals are grouped up onto one single world, Laconis. The Dispossessed get assigned Stingers and Wasps. No tanks, apcs or other gear is provided to said suckers.

Their whole goal is die well if the CapCon ever invades.

"Ma'am you really want to put them all in once place?"

One Time Pad message

To: Colonel Jamie Wolf
From Protector Samantha Calderon

Regarding those names, they are for groups not individuals: Clan Diamond Shark, Clan Cloud Cobra, Clan Burrock.

All part of the Clan's of Kerensky.

The Dragoons are most certainly not from the Hansetic League, not to mention the presence of late SLDF Civil War designs such the Annihilator make it a logical deduction. Your forces originate from the Kerensky Cluster.

I assume additional Clans exist, no doubt Clans Lion, Tiger, and Bear exist with Wolves and Falcons as well given the general naming scheme (although what in the blazes is a Burrock).

I can deduce that the SLDF-In-Exile has evolved into the Clans of Kerensky.

What I cannot deduce is what said Clan's actually want, lacking almost all knowledge of their current culture, economy, and military capability beyond being capable of manufacturing much of the Dragoon's war gear.

Do they seek to return in fire and blood to overthrow the Successor Lords? Protect Humanity from unknown aliens? Ignore the Inner Sphere and extend humanities reach outwards?

I look forward to the answers your envoy brings.

Sincerely, Samantha Calderon.

2d6 please.

ETA for their arrival on New Dallas?

6-8 months each way.

"I'm also hoping they'll include specs for portable J/U water filter systems." Samantha admits honestly "From those we could go from portable units to industrial ones"

Everyone does.

"Tis the hope. I'll be plunging a good bit of my personal earnings into this year after year" Samantha answers honestly. "I'm hoping we can convince the Outworlders to let us poke at the Quarte Belle Yards to find bits and pieces we're missing to R&D"

Help them get the yards up and running and they'd help you look.

"Blackhearts in the best SLDF spook gear" Samantha replies grimly.

*blink* "The Star League is gone, ma'am"

"The only organization still proudly flying a *&%# Cameron Star. Comstar. They run the HPG system from Terra and with it massive amounts of data all across the Sphere. Terrans and their insatiable desire to control humanity was what lead my namesake to fleeing to the Hell's Heart, and the Hegemony to form up the Star League. " Samantha spits out in anger. "I don't doubt they planned the dropship strike to wipe out my House either. "

They share a look. "Any evidence to your suspicions, ma'am?"

Thus why it will have to be a secret yard in the first place

Ah

"See that's exactly why I wanted to have this conversation in the first place. I may have an end goal, but if someone can present a better path there I won't insist on my initial plan. " Samantha offers cheerfully. "So assuming we build in asteroids, and simply bill it as a TCN Fleet Base, refit yard and at most a Dropship construction site can we successfully hid the fact we are going to add on Warship slips?"

"If that's how you want to do it we could build them under the surface and just blast open the rock once we're ready to launch the first batch. The future ones wouldn't be secret but who'd care, we'd have warships."

Well we take the time to do it right.

Done

Samantha nudges up the bounty a bit and lets things ride. With any luck on New Dallas she'll manage to snag the actual specs.

It's slowly coming together. Literally as in you're slowly assembling the parts.

bzzt3421 said:
OOC: Sorry, that was the closest term I could find to that general area.

Yes, hence why I want to expand the territory that is Taurian to Detroit. It's not like I'm asking for the entire thing, just a small expansion.

Alright. Where do you want to draw the border in Capallan space assuming things go as expected?

drakensis · Jun 5, 2015

Kaede Kanzaki-Calderon (23), 3011

Psyckosama said:
Well, it does give you Mary Sue powers if what we've seen so far is anything to base it off of.

If it did then the Concordat Commandos would have about 40 more 'Mechs than they do right now.

Psyckosama said:
It's a crash course. You have a feeling the unofficial name is "Keep the Schoolmarm Protector from Getting us All Killed 101"

If that's the result then I'll have no complaints.

Psyckosama said:
And on Sian, Max Liao suddenly needs some Aloe Vera for that BURN.

Damn straight.

Psyckosama said:
Good. I'll need 2d6

[dice]1888[/dice]

Psyckosama said:
Makes life harder.
Oh,a nd when I had you roll for ASFs I meant WINGS not squadrons.

Sweet.

Psyckosama said:
He's actually waving any permanent surrender of claims (despite his brothers whispered suggestions) and going more for an agreement that your borders, pending any future negotiations to adjust the borders.

I'm not entirely sure where you're going with that.

Psyckosama said:
It might not be politically a good idea, but the man actually is acting based on his sense of right and wrong. You're actually good people and frankly there are plenty of assholes out there who need to get punched in the dick. He honestly just want to leave the Concordant alone and live in peace with you.

Sounds like the sort of principle I can get behind.

Psyckosama said:
He tells you about his experiences with the Combine. Let me put it this way.... they're very much a reflection of Imperial Japan IN SPACE and leave it at that.

Not exactly the values that Taurians hold dear.

Psyckosama said:
He would like that very much.

Excellent!

Psyckosama said:
Go right ahead. Meanwhile he needs to cut new orders for the Davion Heavy Guards... and maybe the Davion Light and Assault Guards for that matter...

Time for a tea break to give him the chance.

For my part, sending a message to Blackwell offering some of VMI's expertise with Marauders, not to mention a nice influx of cash for the opportunity to share in the new design once it's finished. Taurian endorsement does count for a lot in the 'merc trade (and the possibility of a back-channel connection to the Wolf Dragoons hasn't escaped me).

I may be anticipating the Dragoon's later ties to Pinard Protectorates Ltd (which would lead to the Plainsman) but I'm also at least interested in getting some samples of their conventional combat vehicles - Badger, Bandit, Kestrel, Peregrine - from Blackwell for evaluation. Perhaps Blackwell might wish to expand and build a new factory in the Hyades?

Psyckosama said:
He'd also like to make an offer. There's a rumor that you might be going after the Pirate's Haven. They're a pest to his people too and if you are, well, he'd be willing to lend you the aid of one of the newly redundant border guard RCTs to help burn them out.

It'll depend to some extent what our recon turns up on the Cluster but yes, my congratulations to MIIO, the Haven Cluster is a long-running problem I want to put an end to. I wouldn't personally object to joint operations but given my lack of a military background I'll want to consult my advisors before committing to anything.

Psyckosama said:
He also offers you the backup if you ever decide to take revenge on the Big Mac. Archibald McCarron is a pain in both your asses and both your realms would benefit from lancing those boils

I certainly wouldn't complain but it's a matter of as and when a suitable opportunity arises. I don't wish to over-extend myself with operations in the Haven Cluster already drawing attention and resources.

Psyckosama · Jun 5, 2015

drakensis said:
Kaede Kanzaki-Calderon (23), 3011

If it did then the Concordat Commandos would have about 40 more 'Mechs than they do right now.

You're dealing with a 3020s Regimental sized Merc Unit. They out Mary Sue everyone.

If that's the result then I'll have no complaints.

Nor will the TDF

Damn straight.

^_^

[dice]1888[/dice]

You get no reply, but there is a report that half a regiment of Dragoons are on a full burn trip to towards the Concordant as fast as they can go and are taking no calls.

Takashi Kurita is rather annoyed at them right now but as the others are still doing their job, he's simply docked their pay.

I'm not entirely sure where you're going with that.

Basically he's not asking you to do anything silly like publicly renounce any Taurian claim on those worlds or anything. Which frankly has been offered as a price of peace before to previous protectors. He just wants peace.

Sounds like the sort of principle I can get behind.

He's honestly one of the most forthright and honest people Kaede has ever met.

You're starting to understand why he's called the Hound. He's shockingly selfless and loyal for the ruler of a Successor State.

Not exactly the values that Taurians hold dear.

Especially the policy of systematic ethnic cleansing and tendency to overlook small and forgettable mistakes, such as the Rape of Nanjing...

When I said Imperial Japan I meant WW2

Excellent!

Time for a tea break to give him the chance.

The message is sent by one use pad. He's not going himself as much as he'd like to.

Though he does have one thing to say.

"I will be sharing this find with you in full. Without you we would have never known of it, and it is only right that your people benefit from the fruits of your discovery..."

Hanse sighs mildly in exasperation. Though he is smiling.

For my part, sending a message to Blackwell offering some of VMI's expertise with Marauders, not to mention a nice influx of cash for the opportunity to share in the new design once it's finished. Taurian endorsement does count for a lot in the 'merc trade (and the possibility of a back-channel connection to the Wolf Dragoons hasn't escaped me).

They'll send a rep.

I may be anticipating the Dragoon's later ties to Pinard Protectorates Ltd (which would lead to the Plainsman) but I'm also at least interested in getting some samples of their conventional combat vehicles - Badger, Bandit, Kestrel, Peregrine - from Blackwell for evaluation. Perhaps Blackwell might wish to expand and build a new factory in the Hyades?

They'll need to contact Jamie Wolf first...and he seems to... well... be on his way to the Concordant and not replying to calls.

It'll depend to some extent what our recon turns up on the Cluster but yes, my congratulations to MIIO, the Haven Cluster is a long-running problem I want to put an end to. I wouldn't personally object to joint operations but given my lack of a military background I'll want to consult my advisors before committing to anything.

The advisers think this should be a symbol of Taurian pride. The presence of the Davions will ruin it. Though they're not going to say no to more... covert aid.

I certainly wouldn't complain but it's a matter of as and when a suitable opportunity arises. I don't wish to over-extend myself with operations in the Haven Cluster already drawing attention and resources.

"What were you thinking?" Hanse asks suddenly. "I know that look in your eyes. You have a plan."

fitzgerald · Jun 5, 2015

Psyckosama said:
True. But I'm hoping my industrialization spree will help with it. As will reverse engineering the Toro. A nice trooper light is always a good thing.

Oh yes, the Toro ideally fills the light trooper niche (just wait for the Clan tech version with an ERPPC, 2xLRM10s, FF armor and ECM). Sadly however this is early 3025 and not late 3027 when you've got several Toro lines up and running.

Say, would it be possible to get an Urbanmech line cheap? I have some ideas for that chassis too.

Orguss Industries only plant on Marduk got plastered by both the FWL and Lyrans as they fought over the remains of the Terran Hegemony. Shockingly the actual rights to the Urbanmech have actually fallen into public domain, anyone who actually bothers to Reverse Engineer the Urbie (or come up with complete design specs) could put it into production without fear of lawsuits.

How did it gets the armor and maneuverability?

Swapping the Autocannon for a PPC frees up 2 tons, as does stripping the SRM2. Adding another Medium Laser and MG(@1/2) eats up two tons. Another ton of armor plus two more jumpjets (they doubled the Torso ones) chews up the additional free tonnage.

Code:

Shadow Hawk SHD-2T
Mass: 55 tons
Tech Base: Inner Sphere
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Introductory
Era: Age of War/Star League
Tech Rating/Era Availability: D/C-E-D-A
Production Year: 2550
Cost: 4,902,857 C-Bills
Battle Value: 1,302
Chassis: Earthwerks SHD Standard
Power Plant: CoreTek 275 Fusion Engine
Walking Speed: 54.0 km/h
Maximum Speed: 86.4 km/h
Jump Jets: Pitban LFT-50
Jump Capacity: 150 meters
Armor: Maximillian 43 Standard Armor
Armament:
1 PPC
1 Martel Model 5 Medium Laser
1 Medium Laser
1 Holly Long Range Missile 5 Rack LRM-5
1 Machine Gun
Manufacturer: Earthwerks Incorporated, Majesty Metals and Manufacturing
Primary Factory: Calloway VI (Earthwerks), Dunianshire (Majesty)
Communications System: O/P 300 COMSET
Targeting and Tracking System: O/P 2000A
================================================================================
Equipment Type Rating Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Standard 91 points 5.50
Engine: Fusion Engine 275 15.50
Walking MP: 5
Running MP: 8
Jumping MP: 5 Standard
Jump Jet Locations: 1 CT, 2 LT, 2 RT 2.50
Heat Sinks: Single Heat Sink 12 2.00
Heat Sink Locations: 1 RT
Gyro: Standard 3.00
Cockpit: Standard 3.00
Actuators: L: SH+UA+LA+H R: SH+UA+LA+H
Armor: Standard Armor AV - 166 10.50
Internal Armor 
Structure Factor 
Head 3 9 
Center Torso 18 25 
Center Torso (rear) 8 
L/R Torso 13 20 
L/R Torso (rear) 6 
L/R Arm 9 15 
L/R Leg 13 21
================================================================================
Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
LRM-5 RT 2 1 2.00
PPC LT 10 3 7.00
Medium Laser RA 3 1 1.00
Medium Laser LA 3 1 1.00
Machine Gun LA 0 1 0.50
@MG (1/2) (100) CT - 1 0.50
@LRM-5 (24) RT - 1 1.00
Free Critical Slots: 32
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 6 Points: 13
5j 2 2 1 0 2 1 Structure: 5
Special Abilities: SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA

"I like that name too... hm... decisions decisions."

End of the day the marketing people suggest simply going with Strategic Weapons Carrier on paper, then letting military forces chose whatever nickname they actually prefer.

I must not seduce my underlings.

I must not seduce my underlings!

But after a nice solid background check (making sure she's not a plant) I do bring her in on some of my procurement plans as basically a dogsbody/proverbial 5 year old adviser. I need some one grounded to occasionally pull out the spray bottle and she just volunteered.

Subaltern Ferguson is added to your personal staff sometime in May. That Ms Moneypenny dragoons Sarah into showing off Samantha City as a proud local has absolutely no ulterior motive.

Miriam insisted on coming along on the first outing (to one of the big parks) and has been smirking every time since when the brat sees you and Sarah off.

Nice. Speaking of one shot missiles, how's the Rocket Launcher program doing?

Plodding along, actually getting the units beyond "spray and pray" is taking a while when the unit in question isn't at a complete stand still.

I discuss their use with her. One thing that struck me with them was to use them to soften up enemy formations before closing in for a dogfight.

"Which is why your ASF forces love them. Lets them get in an extra lick or two in at the start. " Kara comments. "Me I prefer using a big gun to knock them out in a strike or two, but for the average rookie they provide an extra margin."

Kara you discover is very, very, very good at piloting ASF and not half bad at teaching either. Which is why she hasn't been drummed out of the Alliance Military Corps despite her near constant antics, demoted several times but never kicked to the curb.

After she epically Bounces your arse in the staff kitchen at the Samantha Flight Academy the epic Salami duel between the two of you would have been absolutely legendary. That is if said duel ever actually happened and wasn't classified.

Kara you discover is an absolute ton of fun to hang around with, if also a bit frantic at times.

I don't want awesome-Banshee. More something a bit more focused in its mission profile, thats all.

Call it a bias but I think that multiple large banks of LRMs are best kept to fire support mechs whose job it is to stay far away from the enemy and provide tactical fire support.

Plus we already have a "It's totally not an awesome" in the form of the Challenger, which is pretty much a Laser Awesome.

Any design concepts or roles you want the Banshee 3T to play? Close Range Brawler, Sniper, City Fighter?

Field Uniform it is!

In addition to the classes you start taking at the École Militaire in May and your performance in your Warhammer there's an up-swelling of support for you among the Mech Warriors in the TDF. While not the best pilot your status as a crack shot is mightily impressive .

Exploration and survey are not limited as long as they understand I'm not going to be bankrolling all their efforts. In fact I'd rather they focus on survey and exploration during the consolidation cycles. Keep them busy and allows for a more aggressive colonization push during the settlement cycles. Get those worlds somewhere close to self-sustaining ASAP.

For the less mono focused among the Farlookers you're praised as being level headed and as a city builder, it seems you've given the moderate faction of the Far Lookers an extremely strong voice and push to control the movement instead of the "explore and colonize at any cost faction"

"How about a vote?" I reply. "Let the people choose. Be a good celebration of our victory I'd think."

A vote is soundly agreed to be a good celebration

"Aged like a fine wine..."

Fyodor merely laughs and comments "You're going to be having all the young ladies pouncing on you tonight, no sense in sending you out all tense eh Samuel"

I award him a minor noble title for his efforts and a small personal land hold. The Hat in the Ring also get to keep the prototypes with my respects.

Baron Stewart Bell is entirely happy with his new title and land hold, Hat in the Ring is pleased to add a lance and half of Assaults to their line up.

Up to Wells, ultimately, but as long as they first batches are deployed to the Combine border, I'm generally positive.

I'd like to buy into Wells too. This looks like a moneymaker. A good assault line always is a decent investment.

A good fraction of Wells stock is bought up in addition to portions you bought up via the front Company.

Speaking of assault lines. How hard would it be to get a couple late model Mackies? Once upon a time the damned things were everywhere, and the weapons loadout on the final generation model was pretty damned nice.

And their design simple enough that it's probably very well suited to reproduction. God knows the entire innersphere and periphery reverse engineered the damned things.

Very difficult. The Hegemony ensured that no Mackies ended up in Concordat hands after the Re-unification War and the First Succession War promptly gutted the remaining stock as militias of Hegemony Worlds fought bitterly to the last against the Successor Lords invasions.

... Take your time. Seriously.

Though I bet once they see the first Challengers coming at them from both sides, they'll regret that little decision.

The DCMS at this point is seemingly happy to dump Chargers into deep Periphery postings or have LAW sell them under the table to acquire other mechs or parts. What happens in a few years time remains to be seen.

Yeah, women are my kryptonite. I will freely admit it.

Not much of a cricket person though. But everyone has their own tastes. Might want to learn enough to at least seem l know a bit if we should meet up again.

You get informed that like many bat and ball games its an excuse for lounging around outside in lovely weather, enjoying the sunshine and drinking. The game's relatively simple and you don't need to worry about the rules too much to follow along.

I ask her what her plans for the near future are. I could use a contact with the FWL and I'm sure her mother would be interested in some of the industrial projects I intent to undertake.

"I'm here in the Concordat for at least a year," Louise answers. "Setting up an office for the Defenders of Andurien. I of course will gladly pass your interest in industrial projects onto the Duchess and shall be available at your pleasure."

"Do remember my dear, that the Taurian Concordant is actually older than both the Lyran Commonwealth and Capallan Confederation. This world in culture and industry is an easy peer of any of the Successor State capitols."

"Kilometres above Luthien," Famke replies warmly. "I'm taking up a temporary position here in Samantha City for the next six months so I'll have a chance to soak in some of the culture. Perhaps you'd care to show some of it off?'

Who was on the avoid list?

For one there's Bridgette Liao. The Planetary ruler of Hurik she's also one of the chief religious figures in the dominate cult on world. Hurik got plastered a few times in passing by the FWLN and for a brief period of time fell into a state of utter anarchy where bandits roamed, and control of vital resources fell into the hands of tyrants. An extreme Norse cult quickly spread in time with warriors seeking to enter Valhalla via death in combat, and worship of high technology.

The Liao's eventually returned and merely co-opted the cult. Bridgette's never actually been recorded doing so but the Cult to this day still Blood Eagles pirates and criminals somewhat regularly.

Usually regarded as the most brutal branch of the Liao family Hurik is also incredibly loyal to the Chancellor and provides a source outright fanatical troops. Sadly Bridgette is incredibly wealthy and is often listened to as a source of advice vis a vi the Periphery by Maximilian. (Romano absolutely hates Bridgette however; something something rival cultists)

Locally Miyuki Shiba is close friend of Mayumi's. Fortunately she's got absolutely no interest in you, but is rather obsessive and over protective about her older brother Tatsuya who is currently a TMI Agent.

Lady Catherine Michaels of Diefenbaker is on the list of crazies to avoid, she's young, rich connected and has a silent reputation that poor but beautiful young ladies who get hired don't last long under her employ.

Drool...

She's a third of the way to being a six million C-Bill woman. Her outfit and accessories alone are worth at least a million C-Bills, while Lady Kelly absolutely rocks the look.

Her hair, upon getting closer, is interwoven with golden strands is a fashion you recognize. A number of noble mechwarrior families won't cut their children's hair letting it grow long until its time for them to attend an Academy. At that point their long hair is closely cropped and transformed into a magnificent hair piece to wear on more formal occasions. Its both a coming of age ceremony and way of having fashionable hair while being a Mech Warrior.

That Lady Kelly is a walking talking advertisement for the fact that in 3025 the Cappellan Confederation is widely regarded as the best in top end consumer and artisan goods is merely a side benefit.

"A dance m'lady?"

"It would be a pleasure," Lady Kelly answers as she sets her drink aside. As Green-selves starts up you find Lady Kelly moves gracefully and with utter confidence as the sweep of the music carries the pair of you onward. However when a high tempo Irish reel kicks into play she shamelessly drops her hand for a solid grip on your arse, moves in close with a scent of lilac perfume and gives a confident grin.

Prosthetic arm?

Lady Kelly has a bionic right arm, her current one is a fully functional piece of art work while useless in combat is highly dexterous and literally gleams with jewels and precious metals. Your briefing notes include the tidbit that she lost it fighting off a raid by the Second Syrtis Fusiliers on Victoria two years ago while out of her mech in a command post. She pilots a Thunderbolt normally and is a Major in the CCAF.

With expanded production I'm hoping that our mechwarriors will be able to be equipped more in accordance with their ability as time passes.

Noted, but until then the easiest Mechs to pass around are Wasps and Stingers

Psyckosama · Jun 6, 2015

fitzgerald said:
Oh yes, the Toro ideally fills the light trooper niche (just wait for the Clan tech version with an ERPPC, 2xLRM10s, FF armor and ECM). Sadly however this is early 3025 and not late 3027 when you've got several Toro lines up and running.

Yeah... though I don't see there EVER being a Toro IIC. Though maybe a version modified with it...

Orguss Industries only plant on Marduk got plastered by both the FWL and Lyrans as they fought over the remains of the Terran Hegemony. Shockingly the actual rights to the Urbanmech have actually fallen into public domain, anyone who actually bothers to Reverse Engineer the Urbie (or come up with complete design specs) could put it into production without fear of lawsuits.

Think we could bribe someone to pass us the specs? Any any other open source designs out there?

I'm willing to bribe people. I'm not above it.

Swapping the Autocannon for a PPC frees up 2 tons, as does stripping the SRM2. Adding another Medium Laser and MG(@1/2) eats up two tons. Another ton of armor plus two more jumpjets (they doubled the Torso ones) chews up the additional free tonnage.

Ah, My thought was the extra 2 tons would go into additional heatsinks but whatever they feel is best goes.

End of the day the marketing people suggest simply going with Strategic Weapons Carrier on paper, then letting military forces chose whatever nickname they actually prefer.

Okay. Done.

Subaltern Ferguson is added to your personal staff sometime in May. That Ms Moneypenny dragoons Sarah into showing off Samantha City as a proud local has absolutely no ulterior motive.

Heh. Well, I might be Fedsuns raised, and I might really be fond of that nation, but I'm ultimately Taurian. My family never forgot our roots and while we might have disagreed with the politics of our kin, we were never traitors.

Miriam insisted on coming along on the first outing (to one of the big parks) and has been smirking every time since when the brat sees you and Sarah off.

She planned this didn't she?

Plodding along, actually getting the units beyond "spray and pray" is taking a while when the unit in question isn't at a complete stand still.

Ah. I see how that could be a bit of an issue.

"Which is why your ASF forces love them. Lets them get in an extra lick or two in at the start. " Kara comments. "Me I prefer using a big gun to knock them out in a strike or two, but for the average rookie they provide an extra margin."

I nod. "I get it. Just was thinking they tend to have a longer range than most of the 'Big Guns' with the exception of the PPC."

Kara you discover is very, very, very good at piloting ASF and not half bad at teaching either. Which is why she hasn't been drummed out of the Alliance Military Corps despite her near constant antics, demoted several times but never kicked to the curb.

"I had a couple thoughts. First... The Quatre Belle Shipyards. I'd be interested in a join project involving them. If they can be brought back into production we'd be interested in studying them and their technology for reproduction. If they're too badly stripped, I'd be willing to buy what's left."

I frown. "Second... the Aerospace Flight School is a joke. Even with your peoples' help, it's still bad humor. We need more and better recruits. I'm thinking a recruitment drive might be in order. We need a greater degree of interest. And I had some ideas of how to do it. Question, how would you like to be a movie star..."

I'm thinking High Budget version of Top Gun to get people drooling over the idea of being ASF pilots. Classic propaganda but could be an interesting piece.

After she epically Bounces your arse in the staff kitchen at the Samantha Flight Academy the epic Salami duel between the two of you would have been absolutely legendary. That is if said duel ever actually happened and wasn't classified.

Heh. I doubt that's our own combat... I mean, there's so many flat surfaces and so little time.

Kara you discover is an absolute ton of fun to hang around with, if also a bit frantic at times.

She's fun

Any design concepts or roles you want the Banshee 3T to play? Close Range Brawler, Sniper, City Fighter?

Thinking mid range damage dealer. Some flexibility without being overly specialized. The Challenger is a good line mech, but we need a solid trooper assault.

In addition to the classes you start taking at the École Militaire in May and your performance in your Warhammer there's an up-swelling of support for you among the Mech Warriors in the TDF. While not the best pilot your status as a crack shot is mightily impressive .

Good. I intend to become one of the best in the Sphere. I'm not going to play Ian Davion, but I can and will hold my own

For the less mono focused among the Farlookers you're praised as being level headed and as a city builder, it seems you've given the moderate faction of the Far Lookers an extremely strong voice and push to control the movement instead of the "explore and colonize at any cost faction"

I'm very glad. That fits entirely with my mindset. I like to see myself as a grounded idealist.

A vote is soundly agreed to be a good celebration

I smile. Just as planned.

And I tell Eve when we have a moment I need a small group of our most absolutely trusted to be assembled in the most absolutely secure area we can find. I need to have a series discussion that is going to be possibly the most top secret thing she's ever seen.

Basically I want her to prep the most paranoid conditions reasonable for this disclosure.

Fyodor merely laughs and comments "You're going to be having all the young ladies pouncing on you tonight, no sense in sending you out all tense eh Samuel"

"Yeah, but now I need a nap..."

Baron Stewart Bell is entirely happy with his new title and land hold, Hat in the Ring is pleased to add a lance and half of Assaults to their line up.

"I'm hopefully going to be sending you a challenge next. What can you do with an Urbanmech?"

A good fraction of Wells stock is bought up in addition to portions you bought up via the front Company.

I love having my cake and eating it too.

Very difficult. The Hegemony ensured that no Mackies ended up in Concordat hands after the Re-unification War and the First Succession War promptly gutted the remaining stock as militias of Hegemony Worlds fought bitterly to the last against the Successor Lords invasions.

I see. The weapons loadout of the MSK-9H was a goddamned masterpiece.

The DCMS at this point is seemingly happy to dump Chargers into deep Periphery postings or have LAW sell them under the table to acquire other mechs or parts. What happens in a few years time remains to be seen.

Yeah. Might end up seeing a version of the Hatamoto-Chi early.

You get informed that like many bat and ball games its an excuse for lounging around outside in lovely weather, enjoying the sunshine and drinking. The game's relatively simple and you don't need to worry about the rules too much to follow along.

Ah. Never been much a sports guy is why. But I can get drunk and eat curry with the best of 'em.

"I'm here in the Concordat for at least a year," Louise answers. "Setting up an office for the Defenders of Andurien. I of course will gladly pass your interest in industrial projects onto the Duchess and shall be available at your pleasure."

I raise and eyebow and only just manage to keep from making a quip. "The inner sphere is a dangerous place. It's always useful to have friends and allies."

"Kilometres above Luthien," Famke replies warmly.

"Most things are," I observe, "But I understand your meaning."

"I'm taking up a temporary position here in Samantha City for the next six months so I'll have a chance to soak in some of the culture. Perhaps you'd care to show some of it off?'

"Sure. I see no reason why not."

For one there's Bridgette Liao. The Planetary ruler of Hurik she's also one of the chief religious figures in the dominate cult on world. Hurik got plastered a few times in passing by the FWLN and for a brief period of time fell into a state of utter anarchy where bandits roamed, and control of vital resources fell into the hands of tyrants. An extreme Norse cult quickly spread in time with warriors seeking to enter Valhalla via death in combat, and worship of high technology.

The Liao's eventually returned and merely co-opted the cult. Bridgette's never actually been recorded doing so but the Cult to this day still Blood Eagles pirates and criminals somewhat regularly.

Usually regarded as the most brutal branch of the Liao family Hurik is also incredibly loyal to the Chancellor and provides a source outright fanatical troops. Sadly Bridgette is incredibly wealthy and is often listened to as a source of advice vis a vi the Periphery by Maximilian. (Romano absolutely hates Bridgette however; something something rival cultists)

Too bad they're fanatical. If they could be turned against them... hmmm...

Locally Miyuki Shiba is close friend of Mayumi's. Fortunately she's got absolutely no interest in you, but is rather obsessive and over protective about her older brother Tatsuya who is currently a TMI Agent.

I'm going to be hearing 'rumors' won't it?

Lady Catherine Michaels of Diefenbaker is on the list of crazies to avoid, she's young, rich connected and has a silent reputation that poor but beautiful young ladies who get hired don't last long under her employ.

Watch her. Blackmail material is useful.

She's a third of the way to being a six million C-Bill woman. Her outfit and accessories alone are worth at least a million C-Bills, while Lady Kelly absolutely rocks the look.

Yeah. And I'm the guy from the great house who used to shop for Hawaiian shirts at thrift stores because I couldn't see the point of wasting perfectly good c-bills to buy my casual clothes retail.

Her hair, upon getting closer, is interwoven with golden strands is a fashion you recognize. A number of noble mechwarrior families won't cut their children's hair letting it grow long until its time for them to attend an Academy. At that point their long hair is closely cropped and transformed into a magnificent hair piece to wear on more formal occasions. Its both a coming of age ceremony and way of having fashionable hair while being a Mech Warrior.

I've always been the close cropped and slicked back type. If my hair takes me more than 30 seconds to get presentable after leaving the shower, I'll think I'm wasting time...

Yeah. I'm probably going to get mugged by Moneypenny and her fashion police.

That Lady Kelly is a walking talking advertisement for the fact that in 3025 the Cappellan Confederation is widely regarded as the best in top end consumer and artisan goods is merely a side benefit.

While I guess the concordant is the home of Ol' Reliable in that sense.

"It would be a pleasure," Lady Kelly answers as she sets her drink aside. As Green-selves starts up you find Lady Kelly moves gracefully and with utter confidence as the sweep of the music carries the pair of you onward. However when a high tempo Irish reel kicks into play she shamelessly drops her hand for a solid grip on your arse, moves in close with a scent of lilac perfume and gives a confident grin.

I grin and join in. After I smile and lean in. "Lets talk later, shall we?"

Lady Kelly has a bionic right arm, her current one is a fully functional piece of art work while useless in combat is highly dexterous and literally gleams with jewels and precious metals. Your briefing notes include the tidbit that she lost it fighting off a raid by the Second Syrtis Fusiliers on Victoria two years ago while out of her mech in a command post. She pilots a Thunderbolt normally and is a Major in the CCAF.

Hm. How loyal? How hard will it be to turn her?

So, who's next? Lisa Steiner?

Noted, but until then the easiest Mechs to pass around are Wasps and Stingers

True. But at least it's a start.

bzzt3421 · Jun 6, 2015

Psyckosama said:
Alright. Where do you want to draw the border in Capallan space assuming things go as expected?

Wherever the chips land. Though I suppose somewhere around Ward and Reknown would be ideal.

Psyckosama · Jun 6, 2015

bzzt3421 said:
Wherever the chips land. Though I suppose somewhere around Ward and Reknown would be ideal.

map please.

bzzt3421 · Jun 6, 2015

Psyckosama said:
map please.

The two worlds at the bottom in the middle of the thin stretch.

drakensis · Jun 6, 2015

Kaede Kanzaki-Calderon (23), 3011

Psyckosama said:
You're dealing with a 3020s Regimental sized Merc Unit. They out Mary Sue everyone.

A multi-regimental unit in fact.

Psyckosama said:
You get no reply, but there is a report that half a regiment of Dragoons are on a full burn trip to towards the Concordant as fast as they can go and are taking no calls.

Takashi Kurita is rather annoyed at them right now but as the others are still doing their job, he's simply docked their pay.

...um. The Wolf Dragoons are employed by House Liao at this time (3010-3014). If even part of the Dragoons are heading this way then the TDF is going to get a full war-warning. Are you sure someone hasn't got their wires crossed?

(I thought the roll was for the outcome of the Farlookers scouting the Haven Cluster?)

Psyckosama said:
Basically he's not asking you to do anything silly like publicly renounce any Taurian claim on those worlds or anything. Which frankly has been offered as a price of peace before to previous protectors. He just wants peace.

That's good enough for me.

Psyckosama said:
He's honestly one of the most forthright and honest people Kaede has ever met.

You're starting to understand why he's called the Hound. He's shockingly selfless and loyal for the ruler of a Successor State.

No wonder he'd have been doomed. Perhaps this early warning about Halstead Station will avert his death on Mallory's World.

Psyckosama said:
The message is sent by one use pad. He's not going himself as much as he'd like to.

Though he does have one thing to say.

"I will be sharing this find with you in full. Without you we would have never known of it, and it is only right that your people benefit from the fruits of your discovery..."

Hanse sighs mildly in exasperation. Though he is smiling.

"That's very generous of you, Prince Ian. More generous, I dare say, than any of your peers would be."

Psyckosama said:
They'll send a rep.

That's good.

Psyckosama said:
They'll need to contact Jamie Wolf first...and he seems to... well... be on his way to the Concordant and not replying to calls.

That's not good.

Psyckosama said:
The advisers think this should be a symbol of Taurian pride. The presence of the Davions will ruin it. Though they're not going to say no to more... covert aid.

I'll explain diplomatically to Ian that while support would be good, it's important after the losses on Rollis that the TDF carry this out successfully without obvious.

Psyckosama said:
"What were you thinking?" Hanse asks suddenly. "I know that look in your eyes. You have a plan."

"Several plans are under consideration. However, dealing with five BattleMech regiments in a decisive fashion is decidedly non-trivial. And anything that could turn into an extended grudge match against one of the most formidable mercenary outfits in the Inner Sphere isn't sufficiently decisive for my liking."

Honestly, while I'm not happy that Archie McCarron burned me on Rollis, I've no intention of getting hung up on it. It was his job, he did it well. Making this personal and fixating on him would be a mistake.

Psyckosama · Jun 6, 2015

drakensis said:
Kaede Kanzaki-Calderon (23), 3011

A multi-regimental unit in fact.

Even worse.

...um. The Wolf Dragoons are employed by House Liao at this time (3010-3014). If even part of the Dragoons are heading this way then the TDF is going to get a full war-warning. Are you sure someone hasn't got their wires crossed?

(I thought the roll was for the outcome of the Farlookers scouting the Haven Cluster?)

Running multiple threads here. Mix ups happen. Apologies

That was meant for fitz.

Yeah. The Farlookers manage to locate Pirate's Haven. It's a perfectly habitable world smack dab in the middle of the damned cluster.

That's good enough for me.

No wonder he'd have been doomed. Perhaps this early warning about Halstead Station will avert his death on Mallory's World.

Maybe. You're almost starting to loathe the idea of his death. He's just too... nice.

"That's very generous of you, Prince Ian. More generous, I dare say, than any of your peers would be."

"I like to hold myself to a higher standard. It's called simple human decency. You treat me honorably and I'll happily do the same."

That's good.

Okay.

That's not good.

Change it.

He's not overly interested in sale at this time, but what do you offer to change his mind.

I'll explain diplomatically to Ian that while support would be good, it's important after the losses on Rollis that the TDF carry this out successfully without obvious.

He understands completely. And a week later a TMI agent in the Federated Suns literally finds a top secret MIIO data-packet in his mailbox between the water bill an the Federated Clearing House advertisements.

"Several plans are under consideration. However, dealing with five BattleMech regiments in a decisive fashion is decidedly non-trivial. And anything that could turn into an extended grudge match against one of the most formidable mercenary outfits in the Inner Sphere isn't sufficiently decisive for my liking."

Honestly, while I'm not happy that Archie McCarron burned me on Rollis, I've no intention of getting hung up on it. It was his job, he did it well. Making this personal and fixating on him would be a mistake.

He'd like to see them gone as much as you would. If you could draw the bulk of their forces into a trap, he'd be willing to send a couple RTCs to Manke to burn out the rest. He hates the Draconis Combine most. Doesn't mean he has any great love for the Confederation. He can't stand them, and he's well aware of Archie McCarron's irrational grudge against his nation. One day that man will have his leash cut and be permitted to run wild. On that day he'll have a mad dog with 5 regiments running wild in his backyard. Best shoot them now.

What are your plans?

A Calderon is You

Getting sticky.

Know what you're doing yet?

Versed in the lewd.

Connoisseur.

Getting sticky.

Versed in the lewd.

Experienced.

Connoisseur.

Getting sticky.

Connoisseur.

Getting sticky.

Connoisseur.

Connoisseur.

Getting sticky.

Connoisseur.

Getting sticky.

Connoisseur.

Versed in the lewd.

Experienced.

Getting sticky.

Connoisseur.

Versed in the lewd.

Connoisseur.

Experienced.

Connoisseur.

Getting sticky.

Connoisseur.

Getting sticky.

Versed in the lewd.

Connoisseur.

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