I don't own anything other than the plot and the original characters…everything else belongs to someone else, so don't sue me, ok?

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Summary:

Stuart's Spartans: Backstab

Sequel to Stuart's Spartans: Devil's Wrath. The Spartans came away from Devil's Rock in shambles. After merging with the remnants to the Restless Souls and under the Field Command of Jake 'Ice' Olsen, the Spartans have spent months training and rebuilding, emerging stronger than ever. But there are some situations where strength isn't enough and enemies aren't always visible from the cockpit of a 'mech. Trouble looms on the horizon and treachery abounds in the shadows. Can 'Ice' hold his command together in the face of peril from the outside as well as within? Will the strength of character and command be enough to preserve his people from the cross-fire while honoring his contract and duties? Nothing is certain when who you are supposed to rely on becomes uncertain and you know you have been backstabed…

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Spartans' Mercenary Compound
Outreach, Chaos March
September 13th, 3058

Ice was returning to the barracks after a long run around the boarder of the small compound so graciously loaned to the Spartans by their sponsor unit, the Dragon's Teeth. On his way to his quarters he came across Frank, the official CO of the Stuart's Spartans Mercenary Company, carrying some paperwork and heading towards his office. "Jake, you have a few minutes? I just got a contract offer from Kurita that I want to go over with you and get your opinion." "Sure thing guy, let me go change, grab some water, and I'll be there in 10, ok?" "See you in a few then."

A few short moments later, Jake 'Ice' Olsen knocked on Frank's door and entered. "So what's this about a contract?" "Well, apparently the Combine is hiring out merc units to cover its important planets along the Federated Suns/Commonwealth boarder. Apparently they're shifting their regular units clan-side for some offensive. They've offered us a one-year contract to supplement their local militia on Marduk, which they've stripped down to the bare minimum. Despite the peace they have with Davion, I guess they want to make sure that Norse Battlemech Works stays safe. Contract pays very well for a garrison duty and threat level is minimal. We'd be assisting what's left of there local assets: six DCMS militia regiments, two of infantry, three of armor, and one of mechs. Apparently it has Kurita worried that are low on heavier mech assets and need some additional support. If there was a large enough threat, Norse Battlemech officially keeps a battalion each of mechs and armor on site for additional protection."

"Doesn't sound like too bad of a deal. If anything else it'd give us more time to work the rookies in and get them up to spec with the rest of the unit. Just out of curiosity, what are they offering on salvage in case there is conflict?" "We'd get full salvage and access to the local repair facilities." "In that case, Frank, I'm all for it." "Alright then, Jake. Go round up the folks and tell'em to start packing. I'll pay a visit to the Combine's Liaison office and let them know."

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Dragon's Nest Bar & Grill
New Pontiac, Marduk
Draconis Combine

She entered the bar and immediately headed for a side booth, shaking the rain off her jacket as she went. Moments later, a man looking to be in his mid 30s slid in across the table from her. "It's been a long time, my friend." "It most certainly has James. You remember that crazy idea you had back in the University?" Seeing him nod she continued. "I have some information for you. Most of the 'family' is going to be leaving in a couple months for some 'construction work' elsewhere. If you want to bring the old group over and have a party, we could have plenty of get-togethers after New Years."

A sparkle of understanding lit up in the man's eyes. "Why that would be positively splendid. Most of our friends have gone off-world over to the Davion side of the boarder, but it wouldn't be very difficult to arrange for a reunion and some celebrations. Thank you very much for letting me know. If you're willing or able to help us set up for our return party, let me know next week…I'll be sending out the invites."

As quickly as he had arrived, the man left the bar and disappeared into the crowds mulling about in a light autumn rain shower. Having herself a few drinks, the woman couldn't help but laugh quietly and think how much they would pay…oh how much and how dearly they would pay…