Chapter 2: Training days and invitation

Location Katinka, Zoid base area

Date August 27, 3021 07:00

I observed the area outside of the base. Seeing it from the height of a Zoid was one thing, but looking at the forest at ground level was awe-inspiring. I sat on the blanket and stared at the beautiful nature around me.

It was like looking at the Redwood Forest but around me for a ten-km radius. I was more surprised that no one deforested the area for development. That is why I learned a bit about using Hound's advanced sensor to hack into the town's network.

The whole planet of Katinka was a gold rush town. Instead of gold, it was for lostech with a secondary focus on minerals. Once all of the system's resources are emptied, the planet might become a ghost world unless something comes up and makes this place better. The future abandonment of the Katinka will happen. So I'm not surprised this world would join the Aurigan Coalition soon.

I sighed and got up from my lotus position. I looked at my zoid and wondered what I would do today. I had enough rest to pilot Wolf or Hound on their regular's patrols.

'Well, their new patrols,' I thought to myself. I had changed the routine four-hour patrols to three independent and random ones. This way, I could have time to rest between patrols and train. I still remember how bad it was trying to move Wolf with my control skills. I still have the bruise on my chin to show for that recklessness.

I looked back at Wolf, who was 'resting' in the way I've seen dogs and wolves (in the documentary) lay down when looking at someone. A good position for me to quickly climb the forepaw and into the cockpit should something happen. The shade he was in allowed his new color scheme to hide him better than before.

After all, it is easy to spot a giant white mech, not one painted in wood brown with some black spots. I ordered the Hanger's computers to remove his rocket launchers since it would be impossible to find or make ammo for them. Without those extra weights, he could move faster.

Hound's refit kept him at the base. The Battletech SRM launchers replaced his missile pods. I felt his depression on not being on patrol, so I assigned him the role of scouting. He used that super cool advanced radar control to recon from the hangar.

Hound started feeding Wolf data for the surrounding area. It could detect any mechanical forces in the area and land changes, but PBI could walk around if they didn't wear any comms. That was a surprise when I nearly ran over a few guys in the woods on the zoid's patrol route.

I walked over to climb into the cockpit. Wolf took that as a signal to close the cockpit as I started the Command system. After letting it load, I switched the combat system to restricted mode. I didn't want to fire a shot during the piloting session accidentally. However, there was an emergency release on it if we came under attack.

The command system allows me to control Wolf's movement and weapons more precisely than the Zoid could typically do. This awareness was primarily thanks to the cameras and sensors showing more positions around us. However, zoids tend to rely on their natural sensors more than the ones added by humans and zoidians of old.

Ironically, the Zoid processes the sensor differently than humans, like seeing electromagnetic emissions from vehicles, mechs, and electric devices. Due to their low emissions, small animals and plant life could slip by his sense. I had to change the route a few times because Wolf didn't realize the humans from Little Rock were observing him. I knew they must have learned Wolf was avoiding them the first few times due to the vehicles and mechs near them. However, without those around, he wouldn't dodge the militia outside of not trying to step on them.

I looked at the dozen Navi markers on the map and continued the patrol route at 140 km/h. I rearranged a few Navi markers yesterday because of how slow I was going at the time. My speed yesterday almost let the hidden APCs and VTOLs catch up to me until I let Wolf have control.

I rubbed my knees as the memories of that ride were rough. Wolf had to hop around trees while maintaining his max speed. Thankfully the bodysuit I was wearing kept me from being permanently injured during the patrol.

I plan to maneuver like that one day without Wolf's natural control. But for now, I best observe the town through the data feed from Hound as I continued the patrols.

Little Rock had become a hive of activity since the pirate attack. I still couldn't figure out why things had happened as their communication, which Hound hacked, didn't say much other than a rescue mission the Planetary Governor went out on. I heard that the rescue force won and now had its JumpShip that the planet now owned.

I moved Wolf through the forest path created by the Zoid's patrols. I knew it was terrible to take an obvious trail. Still, it made these trips easier in this section and let me gain more experience piloting.

As I moved on, I noticed the marker for the town of Little Rock. It was about six kilometers away and still had the two mechs that were the gift for saving the city. I knew they had stashed away in the warehouse closest to the patrol route, but I never went into town to claim the battlemechs. Well, that and the fact that the APC and VTOL kept appearing near my path made me a little paranoid.

I needed to be more confident in piloting Wolf to try and appear as the leader of the two Zoids. Also, I needed to find out if I was neurohelmet compatible. None of the pilots' helmets had survived the Zoid's attack.

I slowed Wolf down at an observation spot as another thought hit me. The Zoids might have eaten them since the pilots' bodies were still in the cockpit. I would have said they ejected, but none of the logs showed that for the mechs they collected. The ones they managed without just destroying the cockpit. It was a morbid thought.

I decided to head to my next Navi marker and view the lands around me again. The trip there should get those thoughts out of my mind.

I watched the trees pass by as I got closer to my Navi marker. When I observed the town, I had set the point to be at least several hundred meters yesterday. I may be a rookie to combat, but I wasn't stupid either. If the Zoids hadn't emerged, the whole pirate attack wouldn't happen, then I would have walked into town and tried to build my life. It's like I got snake eyes on the roll of life here.

I was almost at my Navi point when I noticed something ahead. I thought back to my thoughts before switching the combat system to full access. Because what was in front of me was a trailer without a cab. A familiar trailer should have been in a warehouse three kilometers from my current location.

I watched as all the cameras' views appeared around the cockpit. It was a bit disorienting as they appeared with multiple perspectives—Standard, thermal, and electromagnetic vision. I saw nothing on the normal or thermals. I removed all the trees on the electromagnetic view and looked for anything different from everyday forest life. The only object on the trailer was the thing I could see giving off a high amount of EMF.

A trailer that originally weights over a hundred tons only weighs around sixty-five now. Half the gift was here.

Apart from that, I wanted to check out what was there. Another part of me was looking for an ambush because of this Battletech. I know this couldn't be just an open gift without someone trying to get something out of it. Or I'm getting my tabletop games mixed up—too many grim dark narrative games.

I searched through all the screens again for anything that could be a trap, but nothing stood out. Even Wolf let out a whine as he couldn't find anything either. I waited for a few minutes, but nothing moved closer to us. Even Little Rock's militia continued their patrols on my battle map without pause.

There were no active APCs or VTOLs around, and the second patrol from either the Planetary Government or Aurigan Coalition was far off on the other side of the mountain. At least, that is what the data Hound sent me with his sensors.

I moved Wolf a little closer and noticed that the latch port, the cab's spot that generally hooked up to the trailer, had several thick chains attached. I keep the turret sweeping the area while keeping the Vulcans ready to fire. I didn't want to kill someone, but I would scare them with a barrage of 20mm bullets unless a mech somehow hid from me. I felt Wolf's head dip as he gripped the chains in his mouth and began to turn around and back to where the remains of the Capellan DropShip were. We decided to finish the patrol here until I could figure out why the Zoids reward was out here.

We dragged the trailer behind us. I could see the tracks we left behind and made a mental note to cover them after dropping this off at the wreckage area. It felt like hours dragging the reward back to the drop point, but a quick clock check showed that a little over fifteen minutes had passed. I was tired from checking every sensor and screen for anyone following us, but nothing again. I looked around with Wolf before heading back to where we grabbed the trailer and began covering up the trail and making a few fake ones.

Many hours later...

Date: August 28, 00:00

It took way longer than I wanted before Wolf and I returned to the base with our cargo. I had to cover up old patrol routes and move fallen trees to make a direction arrow for anyone tracking us. I may be paranoid, but I know I would feel guilty if this were trying to pay us back for the Zoids saving them. So instead of a goose chase, those downed trees lead to a cache of minerals. If the sensor were correct, it should be a mixture of gold and germanium. Even if it is a dozen meters down, the mining mech, like the new Dig King I saw, should be able to pick it up.

I waited as Wolf lowered his head to let me jump down. Finally, the canopy opened and allowed the mechanism's loud noise to reach my ears. I got up and jumped down.

Dang it, I should have braced a bit more on the landing. I could feel the knee pain screaming at me for not bending fast enough. I hobbled a bit over as I waved off the worried whine from both Hound and Wolf. Wolf moved over to the trailer, so I could climb the ladder to remove the binds on the tarp over the giant and most likely battlemech.

It took a while since Hound couldn't help. He was still undergoing refits and jamming everything within eight kilometers away. The jamming should hide Wolf from surveillance outside of a person watching via telescope.

We slowly but surely managed to get the tarp's binding loose. I walked over and hopped onto Wolf's right-side Vulcan pod as he gripped the tarp with his fangs. I watched as the zoid pulled off the tarp of the mech to reveal well-designed military hardware (at least to me).

This battlemech made the Guncanon from Gundam look underpowered to me, the Swordsman.

This battlemech had an autocannon on its left shoulder and a five-tube LRM on its right. If my memory is correct, two weapons on both arms should be lasers. In addition, a built-in missile pod under the LRM should be an SRM. There was a small laser, too, right next to the cockpit. All and all, I love it. However, there were a few things that could have been improved.

First, it was old, with some patches of new armor here and there. Second Wolf was telling me there was something inside the cockpit. Third and finally, I didn't see a neurohelmet anywhere.

I open the cockpit door with hopes of finding a neurohelmet. But, instead of a helmet, I see a note folded, stuck on the chair. After a quick check to seal my suit, I grabbed the letter and hopped back to Wolf's cockpit. Inside I unfolded the note and read its contents.

I wanted to laugh at what I read. What is this? The worst roll of the dice or the best draw of the deck. Someone out there may find this even too unlikely, like me. After all, who gets a note saying they would have a reward ceremony for my 'group' heroics?

Part of me wondered if this was still a trap, while another told me we should go and greet the local leaders. At least they gave me a couple of months.

I looked at the Swordsman and decided it would need a full scan and rebuild soon. For now, it was going through months of a stress test and replacement parts that the Hangar would produce after the zoids fully healed. I wanted to take only a few resources away from my friends when I could make do with something lighter and already in progress.

I turn Wolf's head to the activity next to Hound's bay. Another bay was working on a mess of metal and wires—a bunch of scraps slowly forming a familiar trashcan shape.

Location Katinka, Zoid base area

Date: September 5, 08:00

There was tranquility in the middle of the forest. The birds were chirping, the herbivores were grazing, the predators ran far away, and the sound of explosions filled the air. Well, it was tranquil.

If any native of Katinka, or hell, even the Inner Sphere, saw what caused the explosions, they would either freak out or go to war. After all, who wouldn't want a fast, nimble, heavy-class battlemech for their armies?

However, to anyone not from those places, they would realize how odd it was to see a wolf-shaped mecha running through an obstacle course.

There were dozens of wooden circles hanging off several trees in a large clearing, each with crudely carved rings. Unfortunately, we had shot less than half of them through the center. The rest of the targets are either whole or shattered into splinters.

A few more targets left before a high-speed object barely missed one. The circle swung for a second before a giant metal fang pierced it. Wolf then flung the now doughnut wood disk into another so hard they shattered.

It took only a second for the wooden target to descend before a large metal paw slammed into the ground. The Command Wolf's main gun turned to another target five hundred meters away but didn't fire. The reason was because of me.

I was trying to settle my stomach from the last wooden death disk. At least now, I could handle such a maneuver a few times. I still remember my first try thinking the compensator inside the Zoid wouldn't make me sick. I guessed wrong and now had worked on doing it at least twice daily to ensure we could have such a maneuver for the future.

I know Zoids can throw other Zoids around. So why not throw enemy battlemech too? Example A, Berserk Fury swung Lightning Saix around by its tail.

At first, I thought it was anime logic when the tail of the Lightning Saix didn't rip right off. Now? As the Zoids 'muscles' are engineering marvels, I understand why. But, unfortunately, it was also a biologist's worst nightmare.

I still remember reading that data file on Zoid biology on the Whale King. It was definitely more detailed than what I remembered.

The material that makes up Zoid's internals was flexible and robust to the point that it could bear a heavy load. This flexibility allows the lifelines of the Zoids pumps and moves their 'blood' around.

That blood enables the growth of the Zoid and its movement. However, should a zoid die, its materials lose their flexibility. As a result, the metal hardens upon the death of the zoid. Hard enough that the anti-Zoid beam rifle has a problem getting through. However, it explains why dead Zoids are left everywhere in some shows, not recycled. Or where the corpse went there to feed the offspring Zoid cores.

Man, my mind went on a tangent. I shook my head before guiding Wolf to our third clearing for training. The first clearing was Wolf controlling himself as much as possible without hurting me. That gave me a sense of what I could and couldn't do with him.

A Zoid Warrior can push a zoid beyond its limits, but I'm just a novice. Unlike Bit, I don't have unbelievable luck, and I didn't have Zeke like Van. I did have a pretty obedient Zoids, but they still had their wild side.

"Let's get ready, Wolf," I said aloud as we entered the clearing. It was the final clearing we managed to set up. Of course, it could have been better for its purpose, but it should give us a workout.

The clearing ahead was thirty meters wide and an excellent kilometer-long path. It looked like a good trail for mechs or large vehicles to travel through the thick forest, but it was a death trap for the inexperienced traveler.

The training ground I set up in this clearing took over two days of climbing, building, and testing. After all, the fiber ropes I made might not have been strong enough to trigger those infantry laser rifles I salvaged from the Leopard. So many accidents would have happened if Wolf didn't catch me a few times during those setups.

A few reset up due to the rope being too strong or weak for their purpose. I finally got them working yesterday and nearly got shot for forgetting about the last rifle set. I ensured every spot was labeled with something only Zoids could spot.

I shook my head before saying, "Let's do this right, Wolf. It sees how many we can avoid while blasting these targets."

With a light howl from Wolf, I shifted both controls forward. As Wolf's movement matched my direction, I braced as the first batch of lasers fired. We side-stepped left to avoid several shots before jumping to prevent the log traps Wolf helped set up. As the logs rolled past our previous location, I moved Wolf through the next section.

I knew there was a kill box I set up based on my old RTS gaming days. So I could dodge the incoming lasers. Sure, I set them up, but because they fired once someone trips to rope, those rifles may shoot higher or entirely off target. So, once I moved, the light show began.

Location: Katinka, outskirts of Little Rock

Date: September 5, 20:00

It was sunset, and many off-duty soldiers, miners, prospectors, and Mechwarriors gathered at the local cantina. A place where everyone was allowed to entire and mingle. Especially after the pirate raid.

The day had been eventful for the miners and prospectors as they excavated more buried tech and mineral veins caches. The Militia forces had a peaceful day with even more good news. The Aurigan Coalition was sending another patrol group to help the planetary defense force. With potential threats from pirates and recent pressures from the Taurian Concordat, the Coalition decided to send a lance of battlemechs per their agreement.

At least, that is what I picked up as I sat at the bar drinking some poor attempt at liquor. The few C-Bills I salvaged from the Capellan's Leopard paying for it. Since the battle, I had to time my arrival with the new people coming in and out of town. I glanced down at my clothes.

I managed to dress the part of a new person in the area. However, some of the clothes were tight, but it was better than the Helic uniform. I made sure the large, overpacked backpack with some cases tied to it was between my legs as I didn't want anyone tripping and causing trouble with me.

I took another sip as I waited for my appointment to arrive. I watched as the Mechwarriors walked in and knew they were coming soon. I knew who they were after several days of coming here. I managed to talk to some mercenaries that came simultaneously as Capellans and the second pirate wave. I'm just glad they came when they did. The Planetary Governor or the Coalition must have hired the mercenaries.

I waited for the commanders to show up as I heard through the rumor vine that they were planning to celebrate the recovery of most of their troops. I knew the town's Militia forces lost two pilots and APCs. I didn't even realize they had a VTOL unit, but hearing them die without even putting up a fight was sad. So I visited their grave last night to honor these guys for protecting their friends and family.

I took another sip as I listened in on a group of soldiers talking about their 'boring' patrols and the rumor of the Zoids. So many of them underestimated their capability of them, while others overestimated me. I felt embarrassed since they thought the Zoids had excellent pilots and mysterious backgrounds. They were right on one part.

Still, some had outrageous thoughts. One was that the Zoids and I were members of that SLDF coming back as scouts for their return. Luckily those guys and girls were ridiculed by the others as dreamers. After all, I'm not the Wolf Dragoons. So, after a few cups of this horrible liquor, I noticed my mind was wandering.

I must be getting a little drunk. First, I should get some water to clean myself up. I turned to the bartender to make my order.

"Hey Raoul, pass me a water bottle and some of those chips," I ordered as I grabbed a few C-Bills from my left pocket. I knew it looked odd not to have one of those digital chips I see most people using, but I didn't find any digging through their personal belongings. Luckily, the sales from a few laser pistols gave me enough to eat. But, of course, I had to sell a few rifles too.

The bottle of cold water and chip, made from something, was placed before me. I passed the bills to Raoul, who quickly counted them, nodded, and went to deal with another patron. I like that professionalism wished I could find someone like him for what I'm trying to do.

I took a bit of the chip and paused for a moment. It tasted like someone fried an orange into a chip flavor. It was such an odd taste that I nearly missed the two men I had an appointment with.

I saw them both heading toward me, and I got up to greet them. The oldest man I was familiar with, thanks to the small talks I had with him the past few days. It is not hard to forget the Mechwarrior who took on multiple battlemech with an industrial one. Captain Esposito, who told me to call him Brook, called out for a drink before walking up to me. The second man behind him followed along without one. Brook then turned to his companion to say something I couldn't hear.

I raised my hand to greet both of them with a firm handshake. Brook took mine as usual, but when the mercenary Commander shook my hand, I noticed he gave a bit of a grip to it. A test of some sort through physical strength? Well, I best keep mine just strong.

This mercenary looked like a bodybuilder with blond hair and a strong facial structure. He appeared to be in his forties but could be younger. He was dressed in an armored mech pilot suit and armed with a pistol. Unfortunately, I never got to meet this man in person before today. The only thing I knew was he was the Commander of the mercenary unit. He was also the man to go to for advice on becoming a mercenary.

I decided to break the ice, "Hello, sir. My name is Michael Chen. Brook told me you could advise me on becoming a mercenary, Commander Tagger."

The grip on my hand lessened, but I could feel how tense he was. Finally, Tagger let go slowly before responding, "I can help you with some advice on setting up a mercenary ID."

Tagger seemed to take a pensive look before continuing.

"First, Mr. Chen, you need to answer a few questions the Comstar rep will ask you during the registration." His voice was sharp. It felt like he was digging for something, but I didn't know what.

Brook took out a tablet, or a noteputer as they call it here, out of the briefcase he was carrying and handed it to the man.

I wasn't going to hide anything except the Zoids, so I said, "Sure, no problem. Ask away."

So began the questioning that would help determine my future. Some questions were easy to answer, while harder ones were fewer. I just realized there would be many mandatory sections to become a mercenary. Before I knew it was midnight.

The other patrons were leaving by the end. I look down at the noteputer and realize I have several pages filled out with just the essential information. If I had a mech, my name, field experience or training, education, etc. Half of those, I realized, wasn't even required but optional. Both men had slightly arced brows when I looked up, which embarrassed me.

After it was all said and done, I shook both men's hands. The atmosphere as I answered those questions had become less tense. I noticed Brook pull out a sheet of paper from the briefcase.

" I know you wish to register with the MRB to become officially known as a mercenary. I have a job for you and any new warriors signing up." He handed me the paper, and I quickly read over it. The was a roughly written contract from the Militia for a new Mechwarrior to help stress test the planet's military strength. They are also willing to repair any damages to the warrior's mech. Then I saw the second part, which also had information for hiring mercenaries to protect a newly built factory near Little Rock.

That was news to me. I hadn't picked up any chatter about a manufactory being created. So I checked where it would be, and wow. Little Rock wanted to construct a factory within Hound's ECM field. I wonder if Brook offered both contracts to test for new mercenaries while ensuring they are good enough to defend a new factory.

I wondered if they were onto me. After all, I've been trying to protect the Zoids and myself until I was ready for Battletech's more expansive, chaotic universe. So I unofficially took over the area where the Zoids had been patrolling. It did help end any illegal hunting or mining in that zone.

A stray thought hit me. It may be because I look like a Capellan servitor who managed to escape. After all, there were insults about them, and most people couldn't trust them. Heck, I realized most people here were sneaking a few glances on my first couple of days. Well, that and a few glares when someone didn't think I saw them. However, that did end when more Capellan-like people started showing up as part of a recent mercenary company.

Luckily I responded to Brook with an "Of course!" And grinning like a madman. This contract will train me in what I need and help me prepare the paperwork for my future career. "But can you promise me you won't laugh at my mech?"

Both men stopped and looked at me before replying with a straight face, "Sure./Okay," Before walking off. I knew they saw the mech I wrote down that I would be using.

I sighed before grabbing my stuff and heading out of the tavern. I steady myself outside in the cool weather before slowly walking toward the forest. I kept my eyes searching for anyone following me. It will take me a bit to rendezvous with Wolf.

I was tired from my paranoia when I got to the location. I gave a loud whistle of a specific tune and waited. I chuckled a bit since the signal I used was something the Halo fan in me liked. The response of the ground slightly shaking had me rechecking my supplies.

The backpack had several MREs, seeds, vegetables, and dry meat. I had been gathering all the supplies I could get on hand. I finally got something I needed to become a battlemech pilot.

Wolf stepped out from the tall trees before me with its head scanning the area. I trust his sensor better than my current tipsy senses. I waited with my hand on the pistol, ready to fire, as the zoid finished his third scan.

I sighed in relief as Wolf lowered his head to let me store the supplies. I could hear the turret scanning the woods behind me just in case someone or something entered his sensor range. I secured the backpack with some bought rope before hopping into the pilot seat. The cockpit sealed as I buckled up and grabbed the controls.

The primary monitor flashed on as Wolf raised his head back up. As the pilot controls came online, I waited and slowly guided my partner back to base. I had to get more training before registering in a few days.

Location Katinka, Zoid base area

Date: September 6, 01:00

It was a quick trip back to base, as Wolf was at the entry before I knew it. I keyed in the password that I set up to open the gates. It took a few seconds before the entrance opened enough to let Wolf inside.

After walking through the pathway for a few minutes, I moved Wolf to his spot in the Hangar and opened the cockpit as he lowered his head. Next, I removed the ropes on the backpack and hauled it out onto the floor below. After setting it to the ground, I opened the first case and removed a beautiful, if not heavy, helmet.

I found a decent Neurohelmet while selling some weapons I retrieved from the DropShip. I was lucky to find this one as people around here began to buy them now as the Militia was recruiting new Mechwarriors to defend the planet. I needed it to pilot the battlemech for my plans. Luckily, the people of Little Rock had a device to test for compatibility, which I passed.

I turned to look at the activity in the Hangar. Since I joined in salvaging as many materials as possible from the downed Leopard, the Hangar became a hive of activity.

The loud noises of the Zoid/mech bay mechanical arms working on the Swordsman and the mech I would be piloting for the training. I wanted to drive the Federated Sun battlemech. However, it needs more repairs and refits for the decay of the myomers and minor erosion in its LRM and lasers.

Also, getting ammunition in that fit for the AC/5 was surprisingly okay, and the system said it was operational. But unfortunately, there was no viable ammo here, so we had to handcraft it from what was already on board.

The biggest issue of piloting this battlemech is a gift from the Militia. So they would know that I was a part of the Zoids group.

With Hound still going through refits and Wolf down to his 20 mm Vulcans and 50 mm twin-beam canons, The Hangar's controls could replace the ammo for the Vulcan with 20 mm machine gun ammo. Still, it took a lot of work to reload. So the Hangar modified the Vulcans' ammo storage to use the BT ammo bins.

I didn't want to risk them to open combat unless I wanted to kill everyone and destroy everything to keep them hidden. I didn't like the freaking IS invading this planet to take or destroy the Zoids. I didn't want ComStar poking around, but I needed them to get anywhere in the Mercenary career. So battlemech it is for now.

I want to make enough money to buy and repair a Dropship. However, I would use Command Wolf if it were more dangerous than using a battlemech I have yet to experience piloting. After all, my secret is worth nothing if my friends and I die.

I turn to the mech I will pilot for registration and my first contract. It looked like the weak and underestimated Urbanmech. However, if someone got inside it, they would be surprised by what was changed. I did nothing to it myself, but the Zoids happened to do it for me. I wonder why Hound set up the bay to create the UM-R60 model, but after looking through what they did, I was happy as an Urbanmech fan.

Instead of the six tons of Durallex armor, it was armored with four tons of Zi armor. This was about three times stronger than Durallex, so I was actually over-armored. Zi metal reinforced the internal structure of the Urbanmech. It was one-fifth lighter, so it was underweight by a few tons until I noticed the additions. This weight saving allows the Hanger's computer system to replace the Leenex 60 engine with the Wasp's GM 120 engine. This change should increase the speed of the Urbanmech beyond 32 km/h, but we still need to figure out how much.

The difference in the engine types also allows a Diverse Optics type 2 Medium Laser, taken from the Capellan DropShip storage, to be placed above the Harmon Light Small Laser. The Imperator-B Autocannon/10 now had two tons of ammo thanks to the weight saving from the new armor and structure. I still need to learn how the Hangar created the Zi metal, but it did take a while before it built the Urbanmech. I wanted to call this the UM-60Z prototype. But looking at the hidden weapon and its source, I decided to call this UM-R61ZL.

I shook my head, hauled the supplies off to the kitchen area, and prepared myself for a midnight dinner and rest. I have to start training to pilot both Zoid and battlemech tomorrow.

Location Katinka, Little Rock

Date: September 10, 3021, 05:00

Four days of training/torture before I met up with Brook to take a minor escort job to the capital. I had become a decent Mechwarrior within that time, yet I still felt like a novice. However, it usually took years to get good. Yet, I could run my battlemech at full speed and jump without falling. Fire my weapons precisely while under fake attacks from Wolf.

I moved my battlemech to the designated location where I would meet up with my contractors. I hope everything went smoothly as I directed my mech to the militia hangar.

Both Brook and Commander Tagger managed to keep a straight face at my mech, making me happy. I parked my battlemech inside their open mechbay and got out to greet them. I'm glad I didn't cause my ride to stumble and move smoothly for a new Mechwarrior. Well, in my opinion.

"Brook, Commander Tagger," I said as I walked up to both, who seemed to be looking at the damages I took from training. Sure, it was just a minor dent from me falling the first two days before I got used to moving on two legs and at max speed. But, I guess I got used to driving in Wolf that learning in the Urbanmech was more accessible. Even if the controls were different and I felt the feedback via the helmet.

"Mechwarrior Chen," Brook said as he greeted me. Tagger continued his talk with an armored soldier and a young man who looked like a younger version of Brook. Heck, the fact Brook greeted me as 'Mechwarrior' instead of Mr. Chen or Mike told me I best act like a soldier.

"Commander Tagger had just come up with a nice contract for you to do before you get to the MRB station in New Dutch. So it's best to get our recommendation and test your commitment."

"So, a test before I register with a recommendation? That sounds interesting." I replied as the rest of the group walked up. I nodded to Tagger and his group, who voiced their acknowledgment.

"Mechwarrior," Tagger said as he shook my hand. I nodded and greeted the other two men, who introduced themselves. The soldier was infantry platoon leader Sergeant Jon Jack, and the mini Brook was Talos Esposito, the former Buster pilot. But, man, the Kid tried to keep himself contained as he seemed ready to ask me questions.

"Commander Tagger, I heard from Captain Esposito that you came up with a contract for me before I registered?"

"Yes," He replied cooly. "Lance Sergeant Jack will be guarding a convoy with delivery to New Dutch. Corporal Esposito here will be the driver of the package. However, a few weeks ago, we do not have enough protection for the convoy due to the battle. That's where you come in."

He pointed at me and then to my Urbanmech. "While I was hoping you had something faster, your Urbanmech is a decent mech should things go sideways. The trip to the capital should take four hours at your max speed. After that, our patrol will guide you guys regarding their path before you're on your own. Got that."

"Yes, sir," I replied as formally as possible but decided to correct him. "Sir, I must note my mech is faster than a normal Urbanmech due to its modification. So the trip should be two to an hour and a half, sir."

That caused everyone to pause for a moment. I even saw the shock in the men's eyes as they glanced at my mech, back at me, and then back to the mech again. Then, Tagger replied, "Get your mech ready. You will meet with the patrol leaving in ten minutes. The formation can be discussed with Lance Sergeant Jack here. He will deal with your negotiation for pay."

I watched Commander Tagger and Brook walk away before turning to Sergeant Jack and Talos. I wasn't sure of my rank to them since being a Mechwarrior usually means I'm a Lieutenant. I decided to get the show on the road and asked, "What's the pay look like, and how much can I change it."

Sergeant Jack looked at the noteputer in hand and said in a smoky voice, "your contract states this. On page fifteen, it's agreed that you get to decide how to use the three hundred thousand C-Bills. You can exchange it with equivalent salvage if we get into trouble."

I forgot I didn't even read in dept on the contract. Nice going me, but I nodded and said. "Mind letting me discuss my pay with the Corporal here." The young man, starting at the Phoenix Hawk that Commander Tagger climbed into, snapped to attention quickly when I singled him out.

His fumbling for a second was enough to relax me before saying, "Can we discuss the broken mech?" I said, pointing at the wrecked Buster in a nearby mechbay. The look he showed me was all I required to push for it.

—-

The convoy headed off at nearly full speed as my Urbanmech took point. Unexpectedly, the Hangar had done something else besides armor, structure, and engine change to my mech. If my fuzzy memory of MW5 and MWO was correct, my max speed should only be double, if not around 55 km/h, with the GM 120 engine. Instead, I was heading at a max speed of 75 km/h with the four Vargr APCs behind me.

I just ran with it, as questioning how the Hangar did its modifications was weird enough. At least I know I require to physically gather materials of the right kind to construct what I need. I noticed the high-quality workmanship, with only one problem with a small laser replaced by another remade one.

I rechecked the lance comms to see if anyone had noticed anything. The responses were negative, so we continued on our heading. I then switched to the private comms chatter I listened to from my mech. It was funny as the militia, not the mercenaries, continued to be shocked about my Urbanmech. I beat their expectation of having the slowest known battlemech match their pace.

They would be more shocked if I piloted Wolf or Hound, who had already scouted ahead for me and terrorized any opposition. Gangs and bandits want to avoid dealing with high firepower and mobility. It will have more parts to sort through later if they don't just eat them.

I paid attention once I heard Corporal Talos's voice. After all, the reward from this contract was his busted Buster and only 50,000 C-Bill. In my eyes, it was a steal, but it probably hurt the Kid. So I did offer him an excellent deal.

The sullen voice of the Kid on his comms was to Sergeant Jack in the second vehicle, who was acting as rear guard.

"Hey, Sarge," the Kid said through the coms. "Do you think Mechwarrior Chen can keep that promise?"

There was some silence before the smoky voice of the Sergeant replied, "if it the same modification as that crazy Urbanmech, then maybe. After all, Commander said you can't use a neurohelmet, so any crazy refits might make it impossible for you to use."

'Well,' I thought to myself. 'I'm going to have to work around that. I thought all mech had to use neurohelmets to work properly. At least the Kid is a good shot.'

I opened the Lance comms to ask for the next heading as we reached a fork in the path. Both trails had numerous travel indicators, but neither showed which went where.

I got a reply from the Kid, "It's the East path." The convoy turned to the route before the Kid continued,

"We're making good time. We should be meeting up with New Dutch's patrol group soon. So keep your eyes on your sensors for a Locust or a Jenner."

I glanced at my battlemap screen connected to Hound. I switched my comms and asked the zoid to look for the two battlemechs. He ID them on a route to his location. I order both him and Wolf back to base. I didn't want to attack an ally accidentally.

I told the Kid on lance comms, "My sensors are picking up battlemechs. However, they are too far away for me to ID. So everyone warms your weapons just in case."

"What?!" The Kid sputtered, but the Vargr with Sergeant Jack sped up to be right beside me. I got a ping from him, so I answered. "Yes, Lance Sergeant?" The convoy slew down behind me as we went from 75 km/h to 50 km/h.

"I've got nothing on my sensors, sir," he replied before coughing. "How far away are these battlemechs?"

I checked the battlemap and then my mini-map and wanted to curse. The lance was 8 km from us as Hound and Wolf crossed my path. I knew the sensor could pick up things from a few Kilometers away, but I picked them up outside the standard range.

"About 8 km and closing. I should be able to ID the unknowns when they get in the standard range," I replied, setting the zoom on both the tact and mini-map screen to a closer range.

It took only a few minutes before the comms went off with a feminine voice at its end, "To the unidentified battlemech, this is New Dutch's Militia. Halt your advance! Power down your weapons and start your business here, or we will consider you hostiles."

I paused a moment while following the commands. That was when I realized the others were waiting for me to answer. Stupid leadership test, I mutter before switching my comms to the incoming battlemechs' frequency.

I answer, "This is Independent Mechwarrior Chen escorting a convoy from Little Rock to New Dutch. My liaison will respond to our route and papers now."

I deferred to the convoy's actions while checking the zoids' position and data. Not long after, we got a response from the patrol, "Your transponder matches our records. Welcome to New Dutch. You can follow us to the drop-off point."

"Roger that. Let's go, people. We made good time," I told the demi lance and the convoy. I signal the New Dutch lance to move at 75 km/h. I got a confused acknowledgment before my convoy took off at speed to the capital.

All convoy members laughed at the patrol's shouts of how in the world and are that a flying trash can. That last one was insulting, but I had my revenge as the Locust pilot nearly tripped, trying to turn and follow us without adequately stabilizing themselves.

After an hour of steady travel, we arrived in New Dutch with our new companions. I wasn't sure what to say to them during the trip. It was a little nerve-racking, but I thanked god for the Kid, Talos. The young man broke the ice for everyone, and we all started talking about random subjects.

I was chatting away with the Locust pilot, a man named Rocky, who gave me some freedom in the discussion. It turned out that these two battlemech were on patrol instead of armored vehicles due to the package in our convoy. But, unfortunately, a stern rebuke from the Jenner pilot stopped that conversation. She would have criticized him more if I didn't cut and said, "My contract says whatever is in convoy isn't my problem unless it's a bioweapon. Anything else, it doesn't matter to me."

I think I got the Jenner pilot's and Sergeant Jack's approval. At least, that is the feeling I was getting from this. The affirmative from the Kid and Rocky nearly made me think they intended to see my response.

I'm probably being paranoid. I hope so.

Luckily the city's wall emerged on the horizon, concluding the contract. After all, it was to escort the convoy to New Dutch. The convoy and I let the two patrol members report to their leaders first. Within minutes we were inside one of the militia's hangers with everyone unloading the cargo as I stayed within my mech watching over them.

It took a bit of time, but I concentrated on my surroundings. I know it should be secure here, but I didn't want to relax since this is Battletech. The moment I unwind, some pirate raid would happen for all I know.

—-

It had taken two hours to get the convoy fully offloaded and inspected before I got a confirmation that they had finished unpacking. Then, finally, I completed the first part of the contract. I let out a deep sigh of relief as if nothing had happened during the unloading.

Man, I was nervous for no reason. I don't know why I keep expecting things to go sideways. But then, I saw a waypoint on my HUD and realized it led to an empty bay nearby.

"Mechwarrior," the Jenner pilot spoke up. "You may station your mech there for your stay." She said her piece. She and her partner went back out and past the city's walls. I didn't even get to reply as they went off. So I decided to park my mech there.

I noticed a few other mechs, but most were damaged or under repair. A couple didn't have the planetary militia symbol or coloring but were of unique color schemes and logos. I'm guessing they are fellow mercenaries or salvage from the pirate raid.

I powered down my Urbanmech and saw the Kid and Sergeant Jack walking up the stairs to my catwalk. It took a bit to get out of the cockpit as I set up secondary measures to prevent the thief from my mech. Without my password and neurohelmet, the mech wouldn't start and would begin heating up to uncomfortable levels. I hopped out of my ride just as the Kid and Sergeant Jack reached my bay.

I left my mech armed with my sidearm holstered and my regular helmet. I left the neurohelmet inside a hidden compartment. I wasn't going to wear that heavy thing around.

I watched as they saluted me first before I responded with my own. "Lance Sergeant, Corporal. I believe the first part of our contract is finished. Now I must complete my secondary goal here. How long are we staying?"

"Mechwarrior, we will be here for seven days to restock on supplies and pick up our new equipment." The Sergeant said as the Corporal looked through the folder full of papers in his hands. The Kid then piped up. "I've sent off the contracts to the MRB. As you agreed, the contract allows freelancers to join only after you register and endorse them."

An odd thought hit me, and I decided to voice it informally, "Jon. Talos." I called them by name, which made them perk up. "Why are the Commander and Captain giving me such leeway? I'm just a new mercenary who just happens to be nearby."

I saw both of them pause for a moment, but only the Kid's eyes gave way to some panic. It seemed like there was a reason they hired me, but before anyone could do anything, I just said, "Forget about it. Money is money, and I got a contract to fulfill. Anyone mind pointing me to the HPG station."

I could feel the tense atmosphere building die down as both men nodded at my suggestion. The Kid managed not to stammer as he gave me the directions on the paper map he pulled from his folder. It looks a bit old, but I made his direction and noticed it went from the HPG station location to another.

I decided to head to the HPG relay station. Somehow, the planetary governor convinced the local ComStar representative to open another building nearby to handle mercenaries. I almost asked the two why but decided to take their word for it as a symbol of trust. So I gave my farewell and headed off to the MRB.

It took some time to get to the MRB station's street. I got lost in the city's spiral as more roads seemed to be added and removed than the map. However, the large radar dish, which denoted the HPG, made it easier to locate the right direction. When I arrived, I understood the decision to move the building's location.

I watched several dozen ruff-looking men and women, looking like stereotype 80s gang members, headed inside. Some people were dressed in business suits, and a few were in BDU of the militia without ranks. I was one of the few that came in my piloting suit.

I observed anyone not dressed like punks and noticed the professionally dressed mercs. Exactly two others dressed in piloting suits as well. No wonder they moved it away from the HPG. It was done to make ComStar's main building appear welcoming to people instead of afraid due to mercenaries standing around waiting for potential work.

I saw that those two wearing pilot suits looked like 80s sci-fi armor. So in the way, a father and daughter had some shared appearance. I also noticed most of the men and women in line were gaping at them while a few would peek back at me and then at the pair. Of course, I knew people treated Mechwarrior like minor nobles. Nevertheless, I didn't think it would cause fellow mercs who weren't pilots to look at MechWarrior with envy.

These two were known as arcade and convenience store owners from the whispers around me. Most of the younger people here play the battlemech games as training before trying to be a Mechwarrior. Only a few knew them more for the second part of the store and didn't realize they might have been mechwarriors themselves. The other gossip was about me, mainly because I didn't take my helmet off.

However, I decided to introduce myself to the apparent mechwarriors while everyone was heading inside for job contracts. It shouldn't take too long as only thirty people besides me were there.

Walking up with a steady gaunt, I gave the nod to them before offering a handshake. The male immediately took my handshake with a slight grin and a firm grip.

"Michael Chen, nice to meet a fellow Mechwarrior," I said as we shook.

"Damon Lamb, I'm surprised to see another seasoned Mechwarrior here," He replied as his daughter offered her hand. I wanted to avoid correcting him since I presumably had more experience than a few guys before me.

"Farida Lamb," she shook my hand with a lighter grip. She took a step back to allow her father to speak. She seemed uncomfortable in her suit, but her name rang a bell in my head. I heard of it or read it somewhere.

As I talked to Damon about his experiences with mechs, I began feeling that tug in my memory. The sensation of saying something is off about my knowledge or that I know something essential but forgot it. Damon then talked about his first fight with the pirates when they first came down to attack. He had taken out his old Battlemech to support the militia when the attack on Pidgin happened. He assisted the planetary forces and the Aurigan patrol in repulsing the raiders but suffered a fractured arm.

It clicked when Damon started bragging about his daughter and her performance in his old Battlemech against the pirate's distracted group in the second attack. A child of a former Mechwarrior who lived in Katinka. She has excellent control due to her father training her secretly after what happened to his wife. He was encouraging her to be a mercenary after the coup of 3022. Damon was here with Farida 'Apex' Lamb, which means this pirate raid must have been a butterfly. I hope she follows the right path as she did in the book and game.

I managed to keep the shock off my face. The realization that something has changed may or may not be helpful later. I knew Farida would be an ideal mercenary for the Markham's Marauders and after a great pilot of a Battlemaster for the Aurigan Coalition forces.

I went back to paying attention to the older Mechwarrior. Damon was saying how unusually persistent the pirates were. They took more than enough losses to run with what they had. His experience with those criminals in this section of space would usually cut and run when they lose a couple of units. However, this was the first time he saw several lances of mech and armor vehicles in an all-or-nothing raid. He was shocked, so I made sure to have a similar expression. Only to remember I had a helmet on, and he probably couldn't see it.

I began questioning him more about how pirates and other factions tend to act. I made a cover by telling the truth that all my enemies so far were like the pirates that attacked. Since they and the Capellans were the only people, the Zoid fought. Still hearing that most people and factions tend to cut and run and usually allowed was exciting info.

It had me considering a plan to save enough money and build my mercenary company. I could get by in life here better as a good merc. However, my excitement for the idea died. People might hunt down the Zoids if I show them too early. I'm not ready to do that yet.

I noticed it was approaching our turn to head in as I saw more than thirty people leave the station. The line was outside because many people were inside for jobs and to drop off contracts they didn't trust through standard communication methods.

I said my goodbyes to both Lambs as I went inside to register.

—-

Location Katinka, New Dutch

Date: September 10, 3021, 18:00

The time in the station felt quick, but it was several hours later. I was surprised that only some people working in the MRB building were ComStar members.

A low-ranking contract is taken and given by intermediate hires. In contrast, company contracts would get ComStar adepts or acolytes to deal with mercenary commanders. This would permit them the right to set a minimum price for a job posting. Such assignments like mowing a lawn would never show up here.

I'm glad I did register with the MRB after reading all the benefits of doing so compared to if I didn't. The MRB employee answered all my questions about them, and I noted them on paper later. However, recruiting people for the Little Rock garrison contract will take time. Nevertheless, I resolve to recruit people tomorrow. I even got the documents needed to start a mercenary company.

Well, time to get some ammo for the Swordsman and some toiletries for the week-long stay here. I had taken a minor contract to join the patrols here for the next five days, as that was how long an armor lance from the Coalition would take to come. I had made sure with Sergeant Jack about the secondary contract I took up while waiting on them to finish preparing for the return trip.

He stated it was common among larger mercenary units to take on agreements between rest periods depending on the contract. My job did allow me to do a side task while waiting for the crew to resupply. Still, I needed to determine if taking on a temporary arrangement was permitted. At least I have confirmation that I can now.

Before walking off, I power down my communicator (aka weird BT cellphone). I didn't see Damon or Farida around. However, another man dressed in BDU with a Federated Sun sigil notified me that they had left a message about the Little Rock contract.

"Thank you," I told the man. I offered him a handshake, the typical sign of respect around here. At least, that is what I picked up. "Is there anything I can help you with?"

"It's no problem, sir." The man replied before continuing. "The name is Zin Ala, and I'm a tank crew commander. I heard you are looking for people for a defense contract?"

Damon must have told him about my contract. "I sure am," I replied while thinking about what kind of tank he could bring to the field. So I asked, "If you are up to it. What kind of tank do you and your crew run?"

The man stared me straight into my eyes and replied, "We used to run a heavy tank, but it is gone now. Are you willing to hire an experienced crew but no tank?"

I thought about it for only a second before replying, "Sure. Hell, I'm willing to hire dispossessed mechwarriors and crews. I have some spare units for everyone depending on what I can get my hands on. Just call me on the contact list for the contract."

The older man grinned and nearly shouted, "Thank you. I'll call you soon then. Is there anything else I can help you with?"

"Yeah," I said as my mind drifted to the games, and it made me wonder. "Is there a mercenary supply shop around these parts?"

"Sure, you got a map so I can show you?" Zin replied, and I pulled out the new map I had just brought. He pointed out which street and building it would be.

"Thanks," I said and gave him a nod. "See you in a few days then." Zin just nodded back and took off to where his crew dwelled. I took off toward the building on the industrial side of the city.

I stopped and looked for the sign for the combat supply shop I was searching for to buy new gear. It was explicitly for mercenaries as it tended to have both home products and salvaged materials. I had 600,000 C-Bills on me, with the rest in a data chip I got for registering with the MRB. I wished I could have carried more salvage I didn't want. But, on the other hand, it would have fetched me more money here than back in Little Rock.

I saw not a shop in a traditional sense but a freaking warehouse four times the size of the shipyard ones back home. When I walked in, I saw a military fan's wet dream—all sorts of weapons, vehicles, mechs (all damaged), and armor. I felt the 600,000 C-Bill wouldn't be enough start-up cash. I need at least an APC and AC/5 ammo bin of a specific caliber, so only around 400,000 C-Bill to spend on anything else.

At least I will be meeting with my patrol team tomorrow for my new contract. I hope nothing goes wrong, but everything has been peaceful so far. Based on the games and a few books, I decided to fight for my life at least once a week.

I approached the counter and asked for a sale manager. A middle age man came out and gave me a look over before asking, "What can I help you with, son."

I smiled under my helmet and replied. "Well, my good sir. I need some autocannon ammo of the one-twenty caliber if you have any. Also, if you have any decent APC for sale to carry said ammunition and for combat use."

The merchant hummed before snapping his fingers. "Ah, well, we have a few tons of those autocannon rounds, but they were designed for a General Motor Whirlwind model. I'm unsure if that fits your needs, as its bin is designed to fire a burst of three."

I had to recall what type of autocannon the Swordsman used and realized it should work, so I nodded and said. "That should do it. How many do you have?"

The shopkeeper scratched the stubby beard before saying, "I got five bins of those, but tell you what." He turned to a nearby worker and yelled at them to get all of them ready. "If you buy all five, I'm willing to sell them for 20,000 C-bills."

I added the cost together and noticed I would save a good bit from accepting the sale. So, while it is odd to get such a deal, I just shook the man's hand and said, "Deal!"

I gave the man the delivery location for the ammo and paid the fee for three while asking that I carry the last two in the APC.

"So," The shopkeeper chirped. "What kind of APC you're looking for? We have several wheels typed all the way from the Free Worlds League. In addition, we have a refitted heavier model from the Taurian Concordat with its infantry bay modified to handle cargo. Or do you want one of our few tracked types from various manufacturers?"

I took the noteputer he offered me and scanned through the list. As much I could easily buy two standard models for the price of the alluring heavy one. Unfortunately, I didn't have the crew for them, so I turned back to the grinning shopkeeper and ordered. "I'm taking the heavy refitted one. How much is it work since I see it noted as salvaged and repossessed from its original owners."

The man seems to think momentarily before replying, "I'm willing to sell it for 110,000 C-bills and load those two ammo bins for ya free of charge."

"How about this," I said, looking deeper into the warehouse. "If I find something else I want to purchase, you lower that to 95,000 C-bill."

He thought for a moment before saying, "Sure." The shopkeeper then shouted to some of the armed guards to come here and escort me through the warehouse.

I followed my two men guard through the warehouse. I was stopping to check the prices on all the combat vehicles but wincing at them. I could afford a Scorpion light tank, which would deplete my funds. However, I already had the blueprints for it and the more powerful Bulldog in the Hangar. I hope to return after all the contracts are made with permanent lance mates to help pick out my choices.

I hovered over the mech section before leaving. Most were wrecks that needed repair work. The only one that didn't was a Peacekeeper PK-6 Sercuritymech. Unfortunately, I still didn't have enough to purchase that. No self-respecting Mechwarrior would fight in one, according to one of the guards muttering.

Instead, I just purchased spare pieces of armor and myomer in bulk to be sent to the crash site of the Capellan Leopard. At least I spent enough for those parts to get my discount, so I began my journey back to the front counter.

I returned to the counter to pick up my keys for my new APC and chat about the Sercuritymech. Too bad I couldn't place a hold on it, so I thanked the man before walking off. I hope tomorrow's patrol will be tremendous and peaceful.

I left the shop and headed off to join the Little Rock contingent. I got a free hotel room as part of the Convoy Contract. You could get used to the complimentary stay. Now have to drive this APC through the city to the militia hangar and hope I don't hit anything. Darn, the armored vehicle was a little wider than a regular car.

The next day

Location Katinka, New Dutch, Militia's HQ

Date: September 11, 3021, 06:00

I regret my decision on the patrol contract because of the oncoming headache. Additionally, I was in a group meeting with the combat vehicle operators I would be joining/leading.

Oh, I wasn't mad about the vehicles. The Planetary government supported the militia on their lonesome. So a Scorpion, a Vedette, and a Bulldog were not the worse things to have as lance mates. They were all excellent vehicles for combat and patrol. What wasn't the lead commander for each tank?

'Oh God,' I continue to say as I hear their callsigns. 'I thought they were supposed to be newbie pilots who were in the first time in a mech. Not freaking tankers who became mechwarriors.'

"Sir, thank you for joining us," said the commander of the Vedette, Alexis "Pontoon" Grace. "I'm glad to see a Mechwarrior with us on this patrol." Her crew was also behind her, nodding and repetitively saying thank you. However, the other two tankers were too busy stating they wanted to see action, and I hoped I wouldn't break my contract not to strangle them.

Whelp, it could have been worse.

I went to the militia hangar where my Urbanmech was stored and heard laughs from the two male tankers who shall not be named. At least Pontoon sounded interested in my mech. But, then again, she would be a Urbanmech pilot.

AN: Well, here is the full chapter 2. Interlude 2 will be coming once I finish editing the heck out of my original draft. Maybe even add in a few more scenes.

Anyways, enjoy my work of labor, and heads up that I will be a bit distracted by another plot bunny and IRL stuff (newborn babies take so much time).