Places, People

Point Murder

Free Zones, Antallos

Antallos System, Independent Systems Alliance Provisional Space

14 February 868 AS/2013/3029

The locals were quite graphic when they described this place. From what the Triple-S was able to determine this mountain was once the site of a notorious pirate and their band who ravaged the Free Zones for decades until the more moderate crime syndicates came together and ousted them from their stronghold. The battle to wrest control of these peaks went on for weeks as one by one, each cave system and pile of rock was scoured and blasted to rid the world of a menace that haunted them. From that campaign, the name Point Murder was born. Legend had it that the pirate leader still lived in the caves, waiting to reclaim their place as monarch of the wasteland. Such notions were based on half-truths and information scarcity. Now, General Bondarenko sought to make this place the new citadel of ISA military operations on Antallos. It was highly defensible, rough terrain that favored the defender and an already proven force multiplier. Something he was not quite prepared for was the seemingly devil may care attitude the Basharate had toward material investment. The ability to shape matter and energy into any form required would engender such an outlook. What they were concerned about was time, political optics, and necessity. Time was their primary concern, and the proposal needed solid survey data. If the site was viable and the timeline looked workable, then his proposal for Citadel Antallos would be approved.

Power armored soldiers clambered over the rocks cand dispersed into the cave systems to root out any potential hostiles. Initial passes with reconnaissance assets saw nothing, no indicators of habitation. Even with highly advanced sensor suites, you still needed boots on the ground to ensure site security. Caution was still very much warranted. The last dregs of city-sponsored violence fled into the Free Zones to pilfer from the gangers that remained and from trade caravans as they passed through the wastes. Supplies from the caravans had dried up just as readily as the water in the Free Zones after the ISA wrested control over the last pillars of hostility. Every caravan was protected by ground and aerospace assets that threatened to send anyone who dared attack to another plane of existence. That left only the gangers, who had very little as it was. The small turf skirmishes and raids against one another were sapping both sides of what scant resources they had left. Bondarenko commanded that they only observe and not become involved in these skirmishes.

The General observed the clearing operations from above in a Wyvern-class DropShip. He had two Dragon-classes on standby in case the infantry found something that needed to be erased from the surface. His mind briefly flashed back to the Russo-Chinese war at the beginning of the millennium. American air superiority shaped the battlefield in his favor where he could trade space for time and dictate exactly how he wanted engage his enemy. Now he saw it another step further. He understood how the Americans remained successful in their initial pushes into Iraq and Afghanistan. The ISA took aerospace power deadly seriously, and what they considered an 'adequate' force to support an army on a planet proved it. The Third Aerospace Force had expanded to three hundred craft, nearly tripled in size from four years ago and that was not considered good enough. He had seen the AARs and reported use of aerospace craft by the Inner Sphere, and three hundred combat aircraft seemed like more than enough to fend off any attempts to gain a toehold on Antallos. Serov disagreed. The argument was not what was enough for defense, but what was enough to counterattack. Combat air patrols in atmosphere or in low orbit were one thing, but Antallos was more than just 'another world.' It was the ISA's gateway to the rest of the Inner Sphere, and the Basharate wanted a logistics stronghold, a world that could distribute soft and hard power to their neighbors.

It took a few hours, but initial clearing operations concluded with no hostile action and no casualties. Satisfied, the Corps of Engineers sent forth surveyors to perform their duties. The ground was tough, ancient rock that needed deep survey equipment delivered on the ground. Small drones were deployed to explore deep into the cave systems to determine stability and viability. Experimental VI-driven robots from United States and China were handling the brunt of the grunt work so the soldiers could handle combat if it came to it. Teams of machines scurried into the depths to complete their mission. All the while, Bondarenko observed with great interest. He was focused on receiving approval for the Citadel, and these surveys would determine if he had literal and metaphorical ground to stand on.

SoftBank Arena, formerly Deathrain Arena

New Commercial District, Antallos

The SoftBank Arena had an exciting event today. Because of popular demand, a 'virtual idol' concert was scheduled to commence this evening. Crypton Future Media, in cooperation with a bevy of other companies responsible for giving life to the widely used and highly popular VOCALOID voice synthesis software/voice banks saw the demand for their anthropomorphized voice banks beyond Japan. Trade with other powers, and the widespread use of VOCALOID voice banks in the Gundam series of 'mechs built a fanbase that encompassed the Combine, Suns, Outworlds Alliance, and beyond. The financial success of both military and civilian applications of their software forced them and other Japanese companies to look further afield for sustained financial success as the market was simply too large to ignore. This was the first concert performed by the virtual idols off Earth.

The most exciting part of this concert was the premier of fully autonomous VI-controlled bodies rather than the use of a holographic interface. Stage performances in the past relied on a glass surface holographic display which limited the range of motion for the programmed show and prevented the human performers from being completely integrated into the show. This revolution in robotics technology was driven by Earth's defense sector and their research into advanced automatons whose work was just starting to trickle into the civilian market. The concert was not only going to be for the fans, but to showcase the capabilities of a new generation of robot, one capable of following direction and adapting to brand new circumstances.

Stage management was busy making sure everything was in its place. Spike tape in its appropriate spots, their call book updated and endlessly redundant. Crew checked the routing of cable, quick change spots, instruments, microphones. Lights and sound did their checks, moving lights spun to their pre-programmed positions, the arena's brand-new sound system was tone checked and rung out one last time, balance checked between the instruments and the vocalists. The robots performed their systems checks with company technicians on hand in case anything went awry. One of the stage crew took a picture with a brand-new iPhone 5.

"Hey, man," another crewmember put a hand on their shoulder, "don't be postin' that shit all over social media until after the concert."

"I know, I know." He replied, "NDAs. Still, robots? Performing for an audience? What?"

"You're a local, I get it, but these VOCALOIDs have a very dedicated following. Hell, you seen the ticket sales?"

"No." he replied.

"Sold out. All fifty-thousand seats. Sold out. They added another night last month so more people could come see the concert. Also sold out."

"Incredible." He gazed up at the trusses above, "This level of complexity normal for concerts from Earth?"

"For a big show like this? Yeah. Normally we're truckin' this shit cross countries and shippin' it 'round the world. First time doing a concert on another planet. You guys got a chapter set up?"

He was confused, "Of…?"

"Right. New territory. Listen, I'll have you and your guys talk to a rep when this is all over. Gotta make sure these fuckers ain't robbin' you blind while you're just trying to make a living. These gigs are multi-million dollar and we deserve our cut."

"…Alright. Will do."

"What's your name again?"

"Remus."

The other crewmember laughed, "You're shittin' me, right? Lemme guess, last name's Lupin." They said jovially.

"Good guess." Lupin said with a straight face. He always got these reactions from the ISA-types.

That elicited a hearty belly laugh, "Holy shit. You gonna turn into a werewolf or some shit? Jesus, your parents must've had a sense of humor."

In the intervening years, 'Remus Lupin' made sure to read the Harry Potter series to understand the reference, "Trust me, I get it a lot. Decent books, not enough world building for my tastes."

"Heh, my kids enjoyed it. Movies are alright, but they really changed some of the characters. Anyways, we should probably get back to work. These Japanese companies are real tight asses when it comes to breaks."

"Understood." Lupin took one more picture of the robots and sent it to his people, "What are these things called, anyway?"

"Autonomous Dolls are the official brand name from… God, I can't remember the company. Still, you saw them at rehearsal, right? Fuckin' incredible tech. The dance routines? Their ability to just… leap from one side of the stage to the other? Had to reinforce the stage and platforms to take the abuse. Crowd's gonna go nuts tonight."

Precentor Mulligan Fox managed to get himself a ticket to the concert and stood in line, waiting for the doors to open. He purchased himself a ticket months ago, catching the VOCALOID bug from some of the adepts that worked under him. He purchased copious amounts of merch. He told himself it was for those in the office that couldn't make it, but that was a blatant lie to himself. He was entrenched as a hardcore fan as soon as he was exposed to the music. It just resonated with him. It also helped that he was well versed in Combine Japanese. ROM's training molded him for this day.

The doors opened and the mass of humanity began to move. He moved with it, dressed head to toe in Miku apparel with eight glowsticks at the ready. He had seen recordings of previous shows on the ISA net site 'YouTube' and the holographic technology seemed fascinating. It was more rudimentary than he was used to, but he had also seen examples of ISA holographic tech in action. The emitters were crystal clear, to the point where it was hard to distinguish if the person on the other end was in the room with you or not. To see evidence that it was not widespread fascinated him. That, and the characters were adorable. The company that designed them certainly knew how to personify 'cute.'

He picked up some snacks from the concession stand and made his way to his seat. The stage glowed with the stage lights and a projection of the concert name: Hatsune Miku Live Party 2013. The use of a different calendar always irked him. What happened two millennia ago to not use the standard Star League calendar? The crowd had drawn their glow sticks ready to wave them to the beat. He remembered the recordings and drew his eight sticks, prepared for battle with the air. The house lights dimmed, and the stage lights intensified, trailing all over the stage. The curtains rose. He could not see any evidence of the holographic projectors used in previous concerts. There was no glass pane for projection, and the band were arranged behind where the holo-emitters would be. He was confused. Wasn't this supposed to be a holographic concert? Then the headline act ascended from the center of the stage, lights focused like a beacon. In the center rose the titular character, the headline act of the show. Long, blue twin tails reflected the light as the rest of her corporeal form graced the arena. The crowd erupted in cheers as their heroine was no longer just virtual. The first song, Senbonzakura, began and the crowd went absolutely ballistic.

Fox stood in silence as the music washed over him. A robot, a fully functional robot of Hatsune Miku performed on stage for all to witness. Her motions were fluid, organic, she reacted to the crowd and urged on their cheers. Slight variations in the music, she adapted. She was graceful, not like the robots shown to him in the ComStar archives. The ISA had achieved the improbable and they were showcasing it in an idol show on a backwater world. He stashed one handful of glow sticks and retrieved a handheld recorder unit. He had to capture this for his superiors, and so that he could enjoy the concert again after it was all over. Ensuring the auto stabilization feature was enabled, he waved his other handful of glow sticks.

Space Station Hephaestus

16 February 3029

Colonel Jamie Wolf examined the videos and pictures sent to him from WolfNet, though he hardly needed to. News traveled quickly on Antallos, especially entertainment news. The concerts at SoftBank Arena blew the crowd away. All the performers were experimental Autonomous Dolls produced by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries in collaboration with Siasun. The stock markets on Earth and Cradle went into a frenzy as the valuation of both companies went vertical on their respective exchanges. That was interesting to Wolf, as the ISA did not just have one unified exchange, but each world had its own, with sub-markets to boot. Economic analysis was not his strong suit, but this was information his analysts would put to good use. There was also mention of unions from the brief, indicating that such organizations were very regional in the ISA.

Militarily, the situation had developed significantly. More resources had been deployed on Antallos, with a serious focus on aerospace. The craft WolfNet could not identify in their initial deployment, now known to them as Fedaykin fighters, were waning in number, replaced by Felons, Lightnings, and Foxhunters in service. He was given the public performance figures from the ISA net site 'Wikipedia,' but he knew true performance characteristics were never disclosed to the public. He had seen them in action in large scale exercises with the Dragoons. They were impressive multirole fighters that evaded sensors and took unbelievable damage. Rumors of energy shields were reality, essentially adding additional armor to whatever they were equipped on. They had played the OpFor in the last exercise and were instructed to fight in 'expanded platoon' formations. He saw them for what they were, stars. They were acutely aware of Clan doctrine and trained to fight against them. He remembered a conversation he had with Fleet Captain Mariko Maeda…

"Ah, Colonel Wolf. Your stars fought efficiently this day."

"Stars, Captain?"

"A name we came up with for the expanded platoon. Fits, don't you think? Five points?"

"As you say."

She smiled, "It looks like you and your people are quite accustomed to fighting in such formations. Have you been forced to combine platoons into such units in battlefield conditions?"

He paused to gather his thoughts, "The Marik Civil War was a chaotic time. We had to throw together ad-hoc formations to maintain readiness levels."

"I see. Give it to me straight. Against a peer or near peer opponent, how would we fare?"

"You have my AAR, Captain."

"From one soldier to another."

"Even when you suffer extraordinary casualties, your people maintain their composure. You avoid duels, you smash targets with overwhelming firepower when possible, and retreat in good order when necessary. Your forces maintained favorable casualty rates, allowing you to get back in the fight faster and with more firepower. I've only seen such discipline from the best of house military formations. Somehow we managed to keep your overwhelming aerospace superiority from affecting the ground battle, which gave us room to maneuver. Your soldiers know the importance of ISR, which many in the Inner Sphere seem to disregard. Your drones were a constant annoyance, we had to dedicate our anti-air platforms to swat them from the skies instead of interdicting your aerospace craft, not that we could get a lock. Your capabilities are impressive, more than a match for many formations in the Inner Sphere."

"High praise, especially from a professional like yourself."

"I must ask what you thought of us as opponents, upgraded gear and all."

"We pitted our best against you and won, just. You kept us on the razor's edge the entire time. It was hard to get a good read on your forces, especially with competent aerospace coverage. We were forced to use lower altitude recon assets to get some idea what you were up to, and you did the same. You treated your drones like ammunition, as you should honestly. Unleashed when needed, husbanded when necessary, it was judicious. We only get fights like that when we practice against the other mercenaries or assign one of our own as OpFor. You fought at numerical parity and inflicted dizzying casualty figures. If you had an edge on numerical superiority, I don't know if the ground could've held. We didn't own the skies, even though you had serious problems seeing us. I'd say you messed us up good, Colonel."

"It is what you hired us for, Captain."

"Not quite, Colonel, but all in due time, aff?"

She had teased him with the small touch of Clan vernacular, and his suspicion meter pinged right off the limiter. He kept that to his inner circle, but he knew deep down that the ISA were not preparing for a war against other powers in the Inner Sphere. If they wanted to, they could easily take a few worlds from the powers around them and negotiate from a position of power to hold them. No, they were clearly preparing for the Clans, his people. He knew his orders, to prepare the Inner Sphere for war with his people, but he did not see a good way to do so from his position as a mercenary commander. What he saw in the years since the ISA hired the Dragoons were clear preparations for an invasion. Defense investments across the Houses major and minor, trade agreements to bind them together, it was obvious. They knew.

This discussion played out in Dragoon High Command. There were arguments made for and against revealing who they were to the ISA, their true purpose in the Inner Sphere. Some, like Captain Natasha Kerensky argued against, saying the Dragoons were not prepared and the ISA were but tiny nation against the might of the Clans. Others, like the head of WolfNet insisted that their knowledge of Clan warfare, emulation of IIC models of Inner Sphere 'mechs, and drip feeding of Clan vernacular made them natural partners in their mission. Ultimately, it was up to him. It was a heavy burden, the effort to prepare the Inner Sphere, but it was not one that the Dragoons needed to face alone. The decision was made. He had to contact Bashar Serov and inform him of the truth.

Alamo Township Administration Center

Alamo, New Dallas

New Dallas System, Independent Systems Alliance Provisional Space

1 April 868 AS/2013/3029

Five years of building relationships with the locals and civilian development had begun to pay off. Alamo Base had expanded to house a permanent garrison of ISA troops, a civilian settlement outside the garrison walls, infrastructure to link Alamo to Al'Isard and other townships, and MSI industrial sites to jumpstart the world's potential. The Succession Wars took New Dallas off the map, but humanity proved resilient. The people here survived, and because of their efforts it gave them the opportunity to thrive. The last five years of living with the ISA inspired many of the townships to unite under a common banner and approach the ISA for membership. There was still much to do in all aspects of their world, but the future was looking brighter than before.

The Alamo Technical University was educating scores of New Dallas inhabitants on practical applications for Star League and ISA technology, accelerating New Dallas' revitalization. There were New Dallas natives working in MSI factories as a result. Earth-based companies were slated to arrive on world, but only after official settlement agreements were reached with New Dallas' inhabitants. The old capital was undergoing extensive construction, as old buildings were either refurbished or demolished block by block. City planners worked with the townships to determine the best layout for the ruined city. Despite the differences between the townships, they had agreed to refound Caddo City. This was to be not only symbolic but an investment in their future. Tales of the 'before times,' passed down through the generations told of the greatness the world once had and the old heights of the Terran Hegemony. They sought to return to that zenith and espouse the virtues for which they fought for under the Cameron Star.

In the Alamo Township Administration Center, Boss John Romero Nelson met with Administrator Pavel Vinogradov. He was thrust into the position of civilian administration with the assistance of an experienced civil staff from Cradle. From cosmonaut to his current position, he had become accustomed to his responsibilities. He did not think himself to be the right person for the job at first, but the Civilian Council convinced him that he was perfectly situated for the task at hand. Over the years he learned the intricacies of running a civilian settlement and rose to meet the challenges that the settlement faced. Today was the culmination of a series of discussions between the United Council of New Dallas Townships and the ISA. These involved development methods, settlement areas, infrastructure plans, it was a finalization of years of work to recreate Caddo City for the current age.

"Now, look here," Nelson began as he pointed to a section on the holo map, "this place is stable, buildings can easily be refurbished and settled quickly."

"We do not have the infrastructure to get the basic necessities to people there yet." Vinogradov countered, "Your people deserve a basic standard of living that will not be ready for another few months."

"The place my people are at are far from their families. They don't get to visit as much, and these are a hardy folk."

"Boss Nelson, the areas of Caddo City already rebuilt are safe and proven for habitation. We have been expanding the road, sewage, water, power, and transportation infrastructure. Al'Pelleon is slated to become the next link in the transportation chain, projected in the next few months barring any delays. That section of the city that you are so insistent on is not slated for construction until next year. Even though your people are used to hardship, living in an abandoned bombed out city is a very different life than one in the wild plains. We work quickly, John, but even we cannot cheat time."

Nelson sighed, "I appreciate y'alls work, I really do. It just seems like it's draggin'."

"I will be the first to admit that our efforts have been slower than we would prefer. With the industrial fabricators online, we are now completely self-sufficient. We do not have the benefit of close proximity to our home world, thus production bottlenecks. Rest assured, the construction will accelerate, and we will all reap the rewards of our partnership."

"That reminds me," Nelson adjusted the map to his settlement, "Al'Pelleon is near done with our first ag factory. Gotta thank Dave for helping us out here."

"It is why Al'Pelleon is next to be linked to the transportation network." Vinogradov grinned, "Now, what news do you bring of elections?"

Nelson shrugged, "Comin' along just fine. Folks are gearing up to vote. All the bosses, includin' myself, are hard on that campaign trail. That there comms network y'all set up is makin' this one hell of a race. We got local stations now doin' interviews with the candidates, people running ads, posters all over the place, got a debate comin' up, it's wild. Y'all just had to make this excitin', didn't cha?"

"All we did was provide the ability to communicate. I do hope it did not disrupt your lives too deeply." Vinogradov stated with concern.

"Nah, it's been fun." Nelson smiled wide, "Jeannie's been helpin' me with speakin' to a wider audience and I don't them other bosses stand much a chance against us."

Vinogradov nodded, "I am glad to see such healthy competition instead of violence. You did say in previous years there were breakouts of lethal engagements between bosses."

"Yeah, well, that was over things like land and food. They would threaten each other with starvation and the predictable would happen. Managed to weed that garbage out before y'all came down." Nelson switched the topic of conversation, "Now, I am worried about other folks findin' us. We ready for somethin' like that?"

"Your General Tycho Jefferson has taken quite well to command and has gathered an understanding of Inner Sphere warfare from what you referred to as the Rain of Fire to now. He is much better at strategic, operational, and tactical thinking than he was years ago when he first took the job. Your militia brigade is in good hands. Also, we have made our home here as well. This is not some temporary port of call for us. We will defend this world alongside you."

ComGuard Garrison Sector, HPG Station

Helm

Helm System, Free Worlds League Space

16 May 3029

The ComGuard garrison trained daily for combined arms combat, Star League-style warfare. It had been a very long time since the ComGuard on Helm trained so intensively for conflict that never came their way. None of these soldiers had seen real combat but they did not expect to see any with peer or near peer opponents. It was curious that the new Precentor of the ComGuard garrison ordered more regular and intense exercises in their simulation center. There were rumors of a scandal involving Precentor Emilio Rachan and the Landholder of Helm, but nothing of consequence seemed to occur. He retained his position and continued as head of the Helm HPG Station. New officers and NCOs had arrived over the past few years to fill out the admittedly gaping holes in the local ComGuard command structure. New equipment necessitated more training and new standards for the ComGuard. Old manuals for ancient equipment were brought out of archival tape storage and placed in active folders. Advisors from Terra were rotated in to educate the garrison on their new equipment and employment. It was obvious to the soldiers of ComStar that they were preparing for a major military operation.

Precentor Rachan watched as 'mechs, vehicles, weapons and equipment were loaded into their bays. Technicians clambered over the new arrivals and began their duties. Inspections commenced as every last nanometer of every machine was scanned and verified. This latest shipment from Terra included new production equipment, not ancient gear from before the fall of the Star League. Rachan was made aware that the foundries of Terra had been reactivated from their long slumber and now produced new arms for the ComGuard. It was fortuitous, as his operation's timetable had been pushed forward by years. He was set to be rotated off Helm to avoid additional political blowback from the 'terror attack' on the Helmsdown Administration Center. His time on world was limited, and he had one last thing he had to do: dislodge John Deere from Helm and recover or destroy the lostech they managed to acquire. This was not an operation officially approved by ROM or the Primus, but with the Primus' silent blessing he pushed forth. He had already maneuvered pieces into place. Lord Garth Marik had already begun the transfer of military force on world, ostensibly to helm 'reinforce IrTech's vulnerable assets against terror.' That was one flicker of positivity in the overwhelming darkness of the botched raid three years ago.

John Deere was not a company to be dislodged with diplomacy or subterfuge, not anymore. They had managed to keep their noses clean as he bathed in the dirt. The aftermath of the terror attack three years prior saw John Deere equipment and personnel assisting in the recovery and rebuilding process. They founded a charity to help those directly affected by the attack and others whose livelihoods were interrupted. In the eyes of the people and the government, John Deere were on Helm for the long run. Any attempts at infiltration were blocked by either the extensive sensor net that surrounded the John Deere facility or rejecting potentially suspicious job applicants during the interview process. Their security was top notch, and that option was void. With those options now closed to him, there was only one left: direct military intervention. Lord Garth Marik would direct an assault on the John Deere facility while he personally led a force into the ruined city of Freeport. Covert fly-bys of the city indicated evidence of activity, and ROM verified the presence of some sort of force at the junction of multiple railways. The attack on factory would be telegraphed and open, to draw more forces to the defense of the factory and hopefully weaken what defenders may be present in Freeport. ROM reported a sparse presence in the city, one that would be easy to penetrate with a concentrated assault.

Victory was never assured, especially with a peer opponent, but he had positioned himself well to achieve his goal before his rotation back to Terra. All he needed now was the assurance of Lord Garth that he was prepared and ready for the campaign ahead.

Command Information Center, Freeport Citadel (Formerly FOB Freeport-One)

20 May 868 AS/2013/3029

"ROM's been poking around more." Anna Grímsdóttir observed as she reviewed the reports of the past few days, "Looks like Rachan might be getting desperate."

Sam Fisher nodded in agreement, "Word on the street is Rachan is gonna be rotated off-world. How he's held on to his position here is a minor miracle. The Landholder isn't happy with him at all."

"Latest from the spaceport is that more troops have arrived from Irian." Grímsdóttir continued, "Rachan is making a play here, and it looks like it's lining up with the source material."

"It'll be harder for us than it was for the Gray Death Legion." Lieutenant Colonel Mayamiko Marek shook his head, "Hard to fight a war of maneuver when you've got a factory to protect." He brought up a holographic map of the factory and the surrounding grid location, "We've installed a more robust sensor net within the wood line along the edges of the property border, have pre-sighted sectors for area denial munitions, increased/upgraded our static defenses, and have multiple QRFs ready to deploy. Still, this isn't the best terrain to fight the enemy. A house military formation would be a combined arms affair, and it'd be foolish to think they wouldn't bring artillery and aerospace support for an attack here, especially after what ComStar's already experienced."

"The factory won't be the main objective." Grímsdóttir countered and switched the map to Freeport Citadel and the former city of Freeport, "Rachan is sure to deploy a force in Freeport to gain access to our citadel. He won't just drop right on top of us. If he does, well, we have more than enough firepower to erase them from the sky. No, he'll probably use the old spaceport thirty clicks south. That means traversing a ruined city in mechs and vehicles. They won't try to disembark, they mean to hit this place as soon as the attack on the John Deere Factory kicks off."

"Vaishnavi can turn this place into an urban nightmare." Marek nodded, "Power-armored soldiers darting between buildings with heavy weapons will turn the old city into a graveyard. Well, it'll add a few more unfortunate souls into the pyre."

Fisher nodded in agreement, "Might want to do the same thing in old Freeport you've already done to the factory perimeter. There's been an uptick of shipments to the HPG Station over the past three years, so safe to say they've got new equipment. My money's on vehicles, 'mechs, weapons, the works. I'm sure we'll see new toys when they decide to strike."

"Gonna need to bolster our ground-based aerospace defenses…" Marek stroked his chin, "We'll recon some sites in the city for viability of such sites. I'd rather not reveal our aerospace supremacy and spook the League."

"Yeah." Fisher looked out an armored window, "It'd be a disaster if they decided to probe south from Helmsdown… The factory could be a great catalyst…" The gears began to turn in his head, "Grim, we should work on this. Might be able to engineer an even more favorable outcome from this…"

"Care to elaborate?" Marek cocked an eyebrow.

"This is all just speculation and brainstorming that I just came up with off the top of my head." Fisher shrugged, "If something more coherent shakes out, I'll let you know."

"Right…"

New Avalon Institute of Science

New Avalon

New Avalon System, Federated Suns Space

21 July 3029

The New Avalon Institute of Science was operating in overdrive. New discoveries from their compatriots in the Lyran Commonwealth, the licensing of technology from the Independent Systems Alliance, and the reverse engineering from the same source through more circuitous routes led to an expansive research and development pipeline. The diameter of the pipeline was vast, thus the pressure behind it had to be immense to get projects into production. That was not the concern of Quintus Allard, Director of MIIO. He got a tip from Antallos about a probable scenario that concerned NAIS.

It was a ludicrous-sounding plot: NAIS would be targeted by a paramilitary group masquerading as the Capellan Death Commandos to retrieve or destroy their newfound data from the Graus Memory Core. NAIS and the rest of the Federated Suns weren't fools, multiple copies and redundancies were already in place in the event of a raid on any of the Federated Suns newly reinvigorated factories across their territory. What was more important were the teams of scientists that furthered their understanding and pushed forth new technologies to exceed the highly advanced knowledge base. To strike at the heart of the Federated Suns, even with a sizeable military force, would be foolhardy at best but he considered the state of Inner Sphere naval warfare. It was nearly nonexistent. There were modified DropShips that patrolled the lanes of traffic from heavily utilized jump points but an early warning system comparable to what Terra had was out of the realm of possibility for now. A ship truly capable of deterring a raid was years away from development, let alone deployment. It was a high priority, to be sure, but there were no shipyards in their territory capable of building such a vessel in less than a decade. A raid on a capitol world was not unheard of.

So, he, MIIO, and the DMI got to work on an effective early warning system that could detect possible intrusion and new security procedures for NAIS. Anti-aerospace batteries were committed to the site under the guise of redeployments and training exercises under the GALAHAD maneuvers. Clearances for personnel were re-vetted by both intelligence organizations to sus out potentially compromised individuals. DropShip lanes were diverted away from NAIS and direct landings would be arranged well in advance to mitigate the element of surprise a potential OpFor would have. The garrison element of the 1st Davion Guards Regimental Combat Team were drilled in counter-drop operations and new quick response forces were founded to deal with a potential incursion.

The source of the tip was anonymous, but he knew exactly where it originated from. The Systems Security Service, the ISA's counterpart to MIIO and the DMI. Why they would warn him and his nation of such an attack eluded him. What purpose did it serve that far-flung, highly advanced periphery nation? How did they know? Such questions could not be answered, not yet. MIIO and the DMI had not secured a real foothold on Antallos with the impending Operation RAT and Operation MOUSE. That hole in their intelligence coverage would be patched in due time. The matter of coordinating a massive war effort without the use of HPGs, maintenance of operational security for the AFFS as they navigated to their deployment sites, what information to feed Machael Hasek-Davion to keep the Capellans in the dark, the status of efforts to infiltrate the Maskirovka, all of this took precedence over the new periphery sensation. Not to mention the nightmare security circumstance that was the wedding.

The First Prince officially scheduled the date of his union with Melissa Steiner for 28 August 3030. The ceremony and reception would take place on Terra, under the watchful eye of ComStar and their wretched ROM. The major players of the Inner Sphere were invited along with the recognized nations of the Periphery. It was an alphabet soup of organizations that would be present with their respective national representatives. There were already diplomatic envoys sent to Terra to finalize the details of the wedding and ensure the safety of all attendees, including their enemies. There were MIIO and DMI officers as part of the diplomatic team to reconnoiter the cradle of humanity. He knew that once it was announced that the Fourth Succession War was on, the representatives of the Federated Commonwealth needed to reach their respective command posts in record time.

There was a large pile of responsibilities on his desk, and the Director of the Ministry of Information, Intelligence, and Operations saw nothing for it but to tackle each one as its importance dictated. He and his Ministry had their work cut out for them, but Allard was an old hand in a profession that weeded out the young and ambitious. He knew what needed to be done.

Imperial Palace, Imperial City

Luthien

Luthien System, Draconis Combine Space

9 September 3029

"That is the missive, my Lord Dragon."

Coordinator Takashi Kurita stroked his chin and considered the implications of the invitation sent to him. The union of Hanse Davion and Melissa Steiner was set for the twenty-eighth of August of next year. The traditional enmity between their nations tinged the invitation to the wedding. It was to take place on Terra, overseen by the ostensibly neutral ComStar. He knew better than to completely trust the order of technocrats, but it was neutral ground all the same. He considered his options. If he did not attend, it would be viewed as blatant disrespect to not only House Davion and House Steiner, but to ComStar and he needed them in order to maintain control over the Combine proper. Attendance was not support, he had to remind himself of that. There was also the option of sending someone in his stead.

He dismissed the messenger as he reviewed possible representatives. He examined his list of Warlords that ruled their respective military districts. The moment he glanced at the list he dismissed the notion out of hand. To send one of the Warlords in his stead could result in grumblings of sedition and perhaps even rebellion. The ambition of certain Warlords was well known to him, and he did not want to give any one of them an excuse to consolidate their own power. His eyes wandered to the list and darted to the top. The Dieron Military District was closest to Terra and his son Theodore was stationed there with his Legion of Vega. It would not be unusual to send his son in his stead. He stroked his chin with the thought. He could attend, but with his son at his side he may be able to avoid interacting with the Davion dogs and perhaps give him the opportunity to rein his son in.

He summoned a scribe to dictate a message to his son on Vega. He would attend the wedding, with Theodore at his side. Besides, it would give him an opportunity to properly gauge what the union of Davion and Steiner would bring.

With that out of the way, he proceeded to review the situation on Antallos and the readiness of the border districts. He noted that Warlord Samsonov had strengthened logistics lines to the Davion border and toward Antallos. It was a prudent move, as an attack in that district could prove troublesome if successful. He commended the Warlord on his foresight and bestowed additional resources to complete his redeployment. He was wary of the lines that led to Antallos. The ISA were instrumental in the ongoing modernization of the Combine military and any act that could jeopardize such a partnership was strictly forbidden. He worried that the ambitious Warlord would besmirch the honor of House Kurita and destroy the vital linkage that was an active line to lostech. Takashi hoped that the advanced Periphery state would be swayed to his side through economic incentives. Through the admittedly lopsided deal brokered with the rulers of Antallos, he sought to gain the Inner Sphere's most advanced technologies to finally put House Kurita in the place he felt they deserved as the Lord of Lords of the Inner Sphere.

He continued his duty as Coordinator of Worlds, though something felt off. He couldn't put his finger on it, but something was not quite right. He dismissed the thought and pushed forth with his work.

Bridge, ISV Artemis

High Coromodir Orbit

Coromodir System, Aurigan Coalition Space

10 January 869 AS/2014/3030

"About time the contract came through." Cerun expressed with some relief, "Davion's finally gearing up. I'm gonna guess they're almost ready to get the war started."

"They're also allowing us to extend the invitation to Scarman's command." Fleet Captain Valder observed, "Our reputations combined precede us."

"What do you think, Rosse? We jump on board this crazy train and see where it takes us?" Cerun asked the holographic image of his opposite General Anya Rosse.

"Hanse Davion wishes to combine the realms of the Federated Suns and Lyran Commonwealth in more than name." She stroked her chin, "From what I have seen of his state, they are an honorable lot, perhaps to a fault. I see no problem in assisting him in his cause."

"This contract may try to spin it as 'training combat units' and 'advisory duty' but we know what he means." Cerun stated matter-of-factly, "Let's get Scarman on the horn and see if he wants to play ball."

"I am still somewhat confused by you and your vernacular." Rosse established, "Have we really diverged from the rest of the Sphere so many centuries removed?"

"Remember," Valder emphasized, "we're not from the Sphere, just like you. Hell, your culture has more in common with the Combine. What do y'all do for fun, anyways?"

"There were multiple activities we engaged in for recreation, but our focus was combat. Duels, 'low intensity operations' as you call them, and proving ourselves as warriors worthy of the name."

"Gods, that sounds… terrible." Cerun shook his head, "War is diplomacy by any other means, not… everything. Peace, there is nothing sweeter after you experience what we have. Not the downtime between missions, not the Gods damned lull in the action. Actual, real, tangible peace." He sighed, "It's been a while since we've had such luxury, but it's worth fighting for. It's an unfortunate truth that in order to maintain peace, you must be ready and willing for war. It'd be prudent to remember that."

Rosse saw the wisdom in his words, and filed the quote to share with Adar later, "So, shall we hail Commander Scarman?"

Montgomery Estate

Cordia City, Coromodir

"Good to have a home, 'Master-at-Arms?'" Scarman poked at Raju Montgomery.

"I'm still not used to it." Montgomery was still somewhat uncomfortable with his newfound luxury, "I'm a 'MechWarrior, Marcus. I fight for my Lady and for the safety and security of the realm. I'm no Lord."

"You are now." Scarman laughed, "You've got a title and land, my man. You led forces to victory, and you've been given the option to retire. You're almost seventy, for God's sake. Come on."

"Combat may be a young one's game, but this old bastard still has some fight in him." Montgomery countered.

"Sure, but look at the Royal Guard. General Andris is the overall commander of House Arano's forces, and holy hell has she gotten to work reforming them after the war. The old system of feudal command has been dismantled, except for the personal guard of each of the loyal houses. She's burned red tape to ash with her reforms, and the Coalition is better for it."

"She's kept me abreast of developments." Montgomery nodded, "The Council's place is still nebulous, but Lady Arano is navigating the stormy political seas the best she can. With the Espinosa line effectively culminating in Kamea, her place as High Lady is secure. She's delegating aid coordination to the Council, which is tying up their time and bandwidth. That's good, as the realm still bleeds."

"Artru's transformed the Coalition military into a power to be recognized. Second-line troops with lostech gear'll do that." Scarman shrugged, "Haven't had a chance to talk to Karen since the end of the war. She holding up okay?"

"As well as can be expected. Her staff was well trained by the White Wings, and they've already gone like the Locura of myth. They did not state their destination, but the legacy they left… It will be the basis of Coalition doctrine for generations." An attendant interrupted them with a knock from the door, "Enter."

"Pardon me, my Lords," they bowed deeply, "but Lord Scarman is summoned to the Sword of Restoration."

The pair rose from their seats, "Well, looks like duty calls." Scarman opened his arms wide.

Montgomery smiled as he gave the younger man a hug, "You're always welcome here, Marcus. We should spar sometime, make some use of those DropShip's 'holodeck.'"

"Absolutely."

Meeting Room, ACV Sword of Restoration

A pair of Royal Guards Infantry accompanied him to the meeting room. They excused themselves and stood outside the doors to the room.

"Line secure." The computer's voice stated, "Channel open."

The holographic figures of Cerun and Rosse appeared beside him seated, "Excellent. You responded in adequate time, Commander." Rosse nodded.

"What she means to say is hello, Marcus." Cerun shook his head with a grin, "I swear, Rosse, we need to work on your vernacular."

"My communication is succinct, optimized for our profession General Cerun." Rosse shot back with a cocked eyebrow.

Cerun chuckled softly, "Anyway, Marcus, we've got a gig for you."

"Oh?" Scarman's eyes tracked one, then the other, "Not another civil war, I hope?"

"No war is 'civil,' my friend," Cerun clapped his hands together with gusto and leaned forward, "and this one least of all." He paused as the air between them grew tense.

"…well?" Scarman leaned back, "I'm waiting."

Rosse sighed and transmitted a text file, "The Black Lotus Battalion has been asked to assist the Federated Suns in training their units and advising their forces."

"So, the FedSuns need some applied firepower." Scarman read the holographic message, "Oh, he asked for us. Contract looks good, MRB bonded, solid pay and salvage. Some OpFor for their next round of GALAHAD exercises…" The realization dawned on him, "Oh shit. The Capellan March. He's gonna pull the trigger. The madman's gonna do it."

"You wanna write more history, Scarman?" Cerun grinned wide.