Remove ads

Whelp this could be worse (Battletech x Zoid SI)

Choose a name for a new medium militiamech

  • Total voters
    8
  • Poll closed .
Reader mode
That might not be necessary. If the war of the worlds managed to survive then this song might as well even though the novels are incredibly hard to come by now. It is a good song.
 
True, though I do like the idea of the mechanics playing the song while they build the Spider Rider Power Armor or the song being used as a signal for an ambush or a flare. Sending all relevant and gathered data encoded in the song itself starting with the words "Calling all Spider Riders!".
 
Andres Marrero said:
True, though I do like the idea of the mechanics playing the song while they build the Spider Rider Power Armor or the song being used as a signal for an ambush or a flare. Sending all relevant and gathered data encoded in the song itself starting with the words "Calling all Spider Riders!".
Click to expand...
Click to shrink...

I got a generic armor almost ready right now moving things around.

It an armor meant for Zoid warrior, mechwarriors and special forces.
 
Last edited:
Remove ads
Currency: Zi-Galleon and ZiCredits.
  • Informational
    • Created by VoidCoreProject from SB that I liked so much it's now canon.

    Zi-Galleon (Aurigan Coalition/Zoid Battle Commission/various)

    - A currency that started circulation in the Aurigan Coalition after the Zoidian First Contact, introduced to legitimize the "Zoidian" Lord Chen's identity as a trade partner and an industrial entity helping revitalize the Coalition's economy.

    - also known as Z's, Galleons, and Golds.

    - fiat backed by the ZBC via stores of precious metals, high purity Reggel stockpiles, and the ZBC's own communication services as an alternative to COMSTAR.

    - serves as the currency of choice for Zoid Warriors and allies, can be traded in AC banks and ZBC offices for other currencies.

    - comes in 0.01, 0.1, 0.5, 1, 5 & 10 coin denominations (1/100 of a Galleon is a "Galley", 1/2 is a "Half-Galleon) and 50, 100, 500 and 1,000 bills a.k.a. Galleon Scripts.

    - has novel security measures against counterfeiting, using unique alloys and materials laced with minute traces of Reggel to make fakes easily identifiable by Zoids through smell.

    - has a ZBC backed electronic currency counterpart ZiCredits, known also as "Zee Creds" or "Zeeks".

    Warning keep all ZiGallons away from a zoid checker mouth. They may eat it.
     
    Last edited:
  • Informational
    • Oh boy... Comstar is going to level all their considerable resources to destroying their competition. Lord Chen has a limited window to grow before the Comstar White Ships arrive to NBC the planet into lifeless sphere. He needs to at least monopolize the Periphery communication market & preferably the FedCom market as well.
     
    Well first Comstar will first have to find New Zi in a hostile galactic power that is dead set on making sure no one finds the planet in the next few thousand years not to mention the local hyperspace wildlife. That would also require them being short sighted enough to not realize the benefits of having competition which they might be. Chen might have more time than expected.
     
    hpackrat said:
    Comstar is going to level all their considerable resources to destroying their competition
    Click to expand...
    Click to shrink...

    Well that requires them knowing. Please note an interdiction will make it hard for them to report it to Terra. By the time the ComStar "relief force" comes they will see a nation to strong to directly attack.

    Andres Marrero said:
    sure no one finds the planet
    Click to expand...
    Click to shrink...

    This right here. The planet I have plan for the first planet Zi is in a good forgotten spot in near the AC.

    Those who get the pass that I mention in side stories and info will be picked up by my SI personally for their test. So no tracking if they can't figure out where. Of course some randoms might run into the planet (see side story) but they can be easily taken care of.
     
    BA talks: Knight KNT-001
  • Informational
    • Well, since this will show up soon, I might as well put it up here. I agreed in SB for everyone to have fun making possible mix tech weapons, so I also said go ahead and make so BA ones. Since I said that and I don't want to cause anyone to miss out. Here is one of the BA (well, technically PA(L)).

    Have fun with this information, guys.



    Code: 
    Knight KNT-001
Type: Knight
Manufacturer: Katinka Industrial Inc/Zi Armory/ Coromodir Arms/Kramer's Parts and Machinery
    Primary Factory: Katinka/Planet Zi/Coromodir/Solaris VII

Tech Base: Inner Sphere (Standard)
Chassis Type:  Biped
Weight Class: Ultra Light/PA(L)/Exoskeleton
Maximum Weight: 400 kg
Battle Value: 77 + (x)
Swarm/Leg Attack/Mechanized/AP: Yes/Yes/Yes/No
</p>

Equipment                                     Slots      Mass   
Chassis:                                                85 kg    
Motive System:                                                   
     Ground MP:          3                              50 kg    
     Jump MP:            0                               0 kg    
Manipulators:                                                    
    Left Arm:            Armored Gloves                  0 kg
    Right Arm:           Armored Gloves                  0 kg
Armor:                   Standard (Basic)       0      100 kg    
    Armor Value:         3 (Trooper)                             

                                         Slots           
Weapons and Equipment         Location (Capacity)   Mass 
Machine Gun                   Right Arm     1       100 kg
RE(BA) fuel tank                Body        1        5 kg 
Searchlight                     Body        1        5 kg 
Shield                        Left Arm      2        35 kg
Virbo-Shovel                  Back          -        - kg
PA weapons                    R/L Arm      PA        20 kg

Carrying capacity for arms: each can hold up to 100 kilograms for 200 kilograms—support weapon.
The back has a mount to hold more weight.

This exoskeleton was designed for mechwarriors and special forces, thanks to John Kramer.
Its chassis is slightly heavier than standard Class 1 and civilian exoskeletons due to internal equipment.
Those things are a coolant vest, an infantry-grade targeting system, and a small Reggel Engine.
The original version used a high-powered car battery to operate for two hours of active combat.
The RE modified version (which increases the total weight from 80 to 90 [with fuel tank]) allows for weeks of active combat.
Additional equipment can be worn on top of the armor in satchels and belts.
     
    Last edited:
  • Informational
    • Future weapons: Large Pulse Lasers with mix tech
  • Informational
    • This was created by Edrax of SB that I liked and decided to add it in.

    Long Range Pulse Laser Rifle
    Type: Energy weapon
    Manufacturer: Katinka Industrial Inc, VMI, Majesty Metals, Corean Enterprises, Defiance Industries, Blackwell, etc.
    Primary Factory: Many

    Tech Base: Inner Sphere(Experimental)
    Battle Value: ???
    Year introduced: mid 3030s

    Availability Rating: E

    Heat: 14
    Damage: 10
    Pulse Laser to-hit bonus:-3
    Minimum range: 0 meter
    Short Range: 300 meter
    Medium Range: 330-600 meters
    Long Range: 630-900 meters
    Weight: 9 tons
    Critical slots: 3
    Cost: 500,000 C-bills
    My thought was basically that the Aurigan Coalition finding Castle Nautilus had them comparing Zoids weapons and Star League weapons and seeing how they could combine the tech trees.
    However I realized that the periphery doesn't really get access to the Helm core to really understand SL-era technology(the Taurians were stuck trying to reverse engineer the Streak Srm-2s for 35 years after finding them on Celano in 3019).
    This weapon is basically a Star League Large Pulse Laser with parts that the AC couldn't understand replaced with design elements from say, the Zeekdober's tail mounted Pulse Gun and made entirely from IS standard materials.
    It ends up licensed to everyone who can build it to help bring more money to fund the growing Aurigan Reach.

    Zi-Long Range Pulse Laser Rifle
    Type: Energy weapon
    Manufacturer: Katinka Industrial Inc, Zi Armory
    Primary Factory: Katinka, Blitz Haven. Neo Zi, Citadel

    Tech Base: Exo (alien-experimental)
    Battle Value: ???
    Year introduced: mid-late 3030s

    Availability Rating: E

    Heat: 10
    Damage: 13
    Pulse Laser to-hit bonus:-4
    Minimum range: 0 meter
    Short Range: 300 meter
    Medium Range: 330-2100 meters
    Long Range: 2130-2400 meters
    Weight: 6 tons
    Critical slots: 3
    Cost: 900,000 C-bills

    Using what they learned in making the LRPLR, this weapon approaches from the other direction, using the Pulse Gun with elements of the LPL.
    We see at least twice in New Century that Zoid weapons are pretty easy to modify. In Episode 2, Bit modifies a Heldigunner turret in under a day to work with Liger Zero and in ep 3 he salvages a Triple Shock cannon from a Zaber Fang and again in under a day modifies it to fit on LZ. Maybe its because the guns being made from Zi-metal mean that they grow and evolve with the Zoid makes them easier to modify.
    Therefore the Pulse Gun is much easier to modify than the LPL, the only thing slowing down production is the need for Zi-metal.
    This weapon stays entirely exclusive to the ACM and battlemechs of the Zoid Rangers. A Zoid version would produce less heat and deal about 15% more damage.
    Improved Large Pulse Laser
    Type: Energy weapon
    Manufacturer: Archenar Battlemechs, NAIS
    Primary Factory: Archenar

    Tech Base: Inner Sphere (experimental)
    Battle Value: ???
    Year introduced: late 3040s

    Heat: 14
    Damage: 9
    Pulse Laser to-hit bonus:-3
    Minimum range: 0 meter
    Short Range: 150 meter
    Medium Range: 180-300 meters
    Long Range: 330-450 meters
    Weight: 7 tons
    Critical slots: 2
    Cost: 300,000 C-bills

    Having the Helm core let the researchers at NAIS see where the LRPLR had alien influences and was better able to integrate them in the original 7 ton LPL. It basically replaces canon's X-Pulse Laser.
     
  • Informational
    • Remove ads
    Why you Don't try making pet Zoids (aka no zoid napping cores!)
  • Sidestory
    • I wanted to post this after I was finished with chapter 7.02 but real life keeps getting in the way. Also rewriting sections over again to be consistent.

    Before anyone asks, I'm not good at religion, so just going with the general terms used here. So swearing to a higher power will not be seen. Just insert them mentally.

    Location Federated Commonwealth space, Dar-es-Salaam system, Castle Sands
    Date: 3040

    Duke Haider Waqas Rayhan hated the current situation ruining his planet. It all started when one of the nobles under his command went out and brought back the devils to raise as pets. The man had done so several years ago in secret that when Haider finally came into power, they had escaped the man's 'control.' So those four devils now plague his planet with attacks from under the desert.

    The now-destroyed house had failed, and his failure was costing his planet millions in Kroner as they failed to hunt them down. These demons continue to destroy one armor lance or one battlemech every month. They were consuming everything like a black hole. When those things attacked, nothing usually was left of the mech or combat vehicles.

    The doors to his study burst open as one of his servants came in with a report. Usually, he would have punished such actions a year ago. Still, these incidents with the devils had made him forgo decorum for speed.

    "Duke Rayhan," The servant said while paying his respects. Haider gesture for him to hurry and give him the message. "General Joachim Asker has met up with the mercenary force that deals with taking care of these demons. The General himself has taken to the field alongside the specialist to capture and remove the demons from your lands."

    "Joachim is taking to the field himself?" He asked as he quickly moved to his terminal. It was directly connected to their defense network that the devils hadn't destroyed. Based on the seismic data surrounding the General, it came up with Joachim's Atlas moving very slowly with four light mechs. Four unknowns quickly approached his head military commander as he tried to raise him on the comms.

    "Joachim, answer your comms right now," Haider shouted into his radio but received only static. "Joachim. JOACHIM!" He screamed into the comms, forgoing decorum even with a servant nearby. He would not let his only competent military leader sacrifice himself for the few failed attempts to kill these devils.

    The dot representing their proud General vanished as the four unknowns rammed into it. Then the four light mechs seemed to attack, and all the battlemechs on the map vanished. They had done it. Before, the dots representing the devils had always quickly disappeared into the sea after they attacked.

    Duke Haider stood silent in honor of his fallen friend. Then another larger and heavy mech suddenly appeared in the battle's location. His stomach dropped until his comms went off with a familiar voice. "I'm sorry, my old friend, for the silence. The mercenaries that help me had ECM that interfered with my radio."

    The Duke chuckled and said, "All is well, my friend." That's when a question came to mind. "But how did you suddenly gain a new mech?"

    "Ah," Joachim sounded a little embarrassed. "The mercenaries had said it was looking for a partner and travel with them. So it turns out I was his partner." The response made Haider's stomach drop as the dot moved closer to Khadijah.

    "However, it isn't one of those devils but a sacred animal who will protect this planet." The question came to mind, but for now, Haider would greet his friend when he arrived.

    ——————————
    On board the Flying Knight

    Commander Julie Dark sighed at sight in front of her. Her partner growled at the four captured zoids stolen from a zoid core hatchery on Tyrlon VI. Thanks to their bait and the four advanced Reggel engine Wolfpack battlemech, they managed to trap these trouble makers. They found the Errant zoid's partner here too. Ely will have a great time with his partner.

    Still, who the heck steals zoid cores from the Warshark nest? That was asking for trouble, especially without a Generator to feed them.

    "Commander Dark," one of the Mechwarriors in training said as she was helping the Wolfpack warriors out of their ruined mechs. "We are ready for warp jump back to Planet Zi. Do we need anything else before we leave?"

    Julie looked at the angry sharks before saying, "Let's head home now. We don't want anyone trying to attack us to get these four. God, that idiot who took these four thought he could make them pets. Who turns war zoids into pets? That's just stupid. I don't want us catching that while we are here."

    "Yes, Ma'am!"
     
    Last edited:
  • Sidestory
    • Not really much of religion going on here. The terms of devils and demons were used in a more casual but fitting manner though "devil" was a bit overused. It is similar to how we sometimes use the word fiend and goblin.

    Still that was just stupid on that noble's part. Clearly he hasn't heard of the concept of invasive species not that the guys stuck with fixing the mess were being very creative either.
     
    Andres Marrero said:
    Not really much of religion going on here. The terms of devils and demons were used in a more casual but fitting manner though "devil" was a bit overused. It is similar to how we sometimes use the word fiend and goblin.

    Still that was just stupid on that noble's part. Clearly he hasn't heard of the concept of invasive species not that the guys stuck with fixing the mess were being very creative either.
    Click to expand...
    Click to shrink...

    Well this is suppose to be the future 80s so yeah. Also, the terms I had issue to use was the main religion of that planet. If you look up the planet you will understand why I went so generic.
     
    Warning: Don't use laser pointers in fights (maybe canon)
  • Sidestory
    • By Nuklear of SB. Grammarly edited.

    Commander Chen facepalmed as Liger Zero ran from to the left. Away from the enemy lance. Huge yelled for an explanation and pleaded with him to get back to the fight. The Liger suddenly pulled hard left, pounced to the right, then ran in circles a few times before taking off at full speed again. Reaching his Com's, the Commander opened the channel to a mech standing far back from the rest of the opposing team.

    "Yes, you wanted something?"

    "Just figured I should ask if you realized that the moment you turn that oversized laser pointer off, that Liger is gonna eat you, right?"
     
  • Sidestory
    • Current list of products as of chapter 7.01
  • Informational
    • Someone on SB asks for a list of products Whale King could make in SB so here it is for y'all as well. Still working on self-edit before I send the chapter to the betas. Also, the internet was fried at my house so using my spotty hotspot to post this.

    List of makable mech and vehicles

    This included all (licensed, unlicensed, and open) and production rates of the modules:

    Note: The production rate is only that high if a constant supply of the needed material per unit is provided.

    Bulldog tank (2 per week)
    Scorpion tank (8 per week)
    Warrior VTOL (5 per week)
    Striker (6 per week)
    APCs (all three types of 10 tons) (8 per week)
    Heavy APCs (6 per Week)
    Sleipnir APC (2 per week)
    SRM Carrier (1 per week)
    LRM Carrier (1 per week)
    Pike (1 per week)
    Harasser (2 per week)
    Vargr APC (standard and LRM) (2 Per week)
    Vedette (4 per week)
    J. Edgar (4 per week)
    Galleon (3 per week)
    Hunter (3 per week)
    Goblin tank (4 per week)
    Manticores (1 per three weeks)
    Pegasus (3 per week)

    Brunel Dump Trucks
    Sherpa
    Flatbed trucks
    BRV (Battlemech Retrieval Vehicle) (1 per month)

    Javelin-(JVN-10F, JVN-10N, JVN-10A)- (2 per week)
    Wasp-(WSP-1A) - (2 per week)
    Commando-(COM-D, COM-2D, COM-1B) -(2 per week)
    Urbanmech-(UM-R60 - (10 per week, unknown reason for such actions :) )
    Locust- (LCT-1E, LCT-1V, LCT-1S, LCT-3V) - (2 per week)
    Vindicator- (VND-1AA, VND-1R ) (1 per week)
    Griffin- (GRF-1N) (1 per week)
    Stinger-(STG-3R, STG-3G) (2 per week)
    Phoenix-(1KC) (1 per week)
    Orion- (ON1-H) (1 per month)
    Swordsman-(SWD-2) (2 per week)
    Talos-(TLS-1B) (1 per week)
    Toro (TR-A-6) (2 per week)
    Jenner - (JR7-D) (2 per week)
    Firestarter-(FS9-H) (2 per week)
    Shadow Hawk-(SHD-2H) (1 per week)
    Blackjack-(BJ-1) (1 per week)
    Hornet-(HNT-151) (2 per week)
    Cicada (CDA-2A, CDA-3C) (1 per week)
    Quasit-(QUA-51T) (2 per week)
    Panther (PNT-9R) (2 per week)
    Mackie (MSK-9H) (1 per two months)
    Enforcer (ENF-4R) (1 per week)
    Hunchback (HBK-4J, HBK-4H, HBK-4P) (1 per week)
    Mongoose (MON-67) (2 per week)
    Marauder (MAD-3R, MAD-3L) (1 per month)
    Warhammer (WHM-6R, WHM-6L) (1 per month)
    Centurion (CN9-AL, CN9-A) (1 per week)
    Phoenix Hawk (PXH-1) (1 per week)
    Quickdraw (QKD-4G) (1 per month)
    Wolverine (WVR-6R) (1 per week)
    Trebuchet (TBT-5N, TBT-5S) (1 per week)
    Spider (SDR-5V) (2 per week)
    Awesome (AWS-8Q) (1 per 2 months)
    Kintaro (KTO-18) (1 per week)
    Dragon (DRG-1N) (1 per month)
    Thunderbolt (TDR-5SE) (1 per month)
    Black Knight (BL-6-KNT) (1 per month)
    Catapult (CPLT-C1) (1 per month)
    Grasshopper (GHR-5H) (1 per month)
    Battlemaster (BLR-1G) (1 per two months)
    King Crab (KGC-0000) (1 per three months)
    Whitworth (WTH-1) (1 per week)
    Vulcan (VL-5T) (2 per week)
    Dervish (DV-6M) (1 per week)
    Chameleons (CLN-7V) (1 per two weeks)
    Sentinel (STN-3L) (1 per two weeks)
    Falcon (FLC-4P) (1 per week)
    Emperor (EMP-6A) (1 per three months)
    Ostsol (OTL-4D) (1 per month)

    Powerman (3 per week)
    Buster (2 per week)
    Dig King (3 per week)
    LoaderKing (1 per two weeks)
    Crosscut (3 per week)

    Leopard - none at the moment
    Shilone - (1 per two weeks)
    Union - non at the moment
    Sabre - (2 per week)
    Eagle - (1 per month)
    Lightning - (1 per two weeks)
    Defender - (4 per week)
    Meteors-(2 per week)
    Corsair - (1 per two weeks)
    Seydlitz - (2 per week)
    Guardian - (4 per week)

    Urbanlord (UM-R61ZL) - none
    Guntank-(GTP-001P) - (1 per week)
    Guntank-(GT-02) - (2 per week)
    Gespenst-(GST-001, GST-002A) (3 per week)
    Roughneck-(RGH-00P) (1 per three weeks)
     
  • Informational
    • Future weapons: Triple Churee rifle (AP weapon)
  • Informational
    • Triple Churee rifle (AP weapon)
    Manufacturer: The entire Aurigan Coalition
    Primary Factory: Only in the Aurigan Coalition

    Tech Base: Inner Sphere(Experimental)
    Battle Value: 5
    Year introduced: mid 3022

    Availability Rating: D

    Item: Modified Rifle (Automatic)
    Equipment Rating: C/A-A-A/D
    Armor Piercing/Base Damage: 1.56
    Range: 30/75/170/415 meters
    Shots: 240
    Cost/Reload: 240/2
    Affiliation: -Mass/Reload: 4 kg/480 g
    Notes: Burst: 45; Recoil: -2
    Cost: 900 C-bill

    Made from three standard Auto Rifles found throughout the interstellar community. This style of weapon was first found on the Tercio TR-001C model of Light Battle Armor. It showed its worth as an anti-infantry weapon as it freed up the user's ability to focus on mechs and armor vehicles with its primary weapon

    Note: Damage is based on MekLab data for auto rifles times three. You guys will see it soon but not in action yet.
     
    Last edited:
  • Informational
    • Future weapons: Prototype Shock Cannon (1, 2 and 3 barreled)
  • Informational
    • Welcome the Aurigan Reach's very first zoid weapon.

    Created after several versions of the original zoid variant were used before and during the failed Directorate coup. The Aurigan-style shock canons were created by Blitz Commander, Lord Michael Chen, after his trip to retrieve the vessel that would become the very first Aurigan Warp Gate capable vehicle.

    They were used personally used by Lord Chen, which he mounted on his custom Battlemech the Swordsman Blitz when storming the Warp ship with his team as zoids couldn't function in a location with no atmosphere to speak of, while his Whale King was far too big for the operation. He led the charge against the pirate occupiers and retrieved the vehicle that would cement the alliance between Planet Zi and the Aurigan Coalition for eons.


    Aurigan Shocker
    Type: Energy weapon
    Manufacturer: Katinka Industrial Inc, Zi Armory, Coromodir Arms
    Primary Factory: Katinka, Blitz Haven. Planet Zi, Citadel. Coromodir

    Tech Base: Exo (alien-experimental)
    Battle Value: 712
    Year introduced: 3022
    Year availability: 3025

    Availability Rating: E

    Heat: -5
    Damage: 8
    Damage increase due to heat: (2-8) per shot
    Minimum range: 0 meter
    Short Range: 400 meter
    Medium Range: 450-900 meters
    Long Range: 1000-1200 meters
    Weight: 3 tons
    Critical slots: 2
    Cost: 1,000,000 C-bills

    Type: Energy weapon
    Manufacturer: Katinka Industrial Inc, Zi Armory, Coromodir Arms
    Primary Factory: Katinka, Blitz Haven. Planet Zi, Citadel. Coromodir

    Tech Base: Exo (alien-experimental)
    Battle Value: 1400
    Year introduced: 3022
    Year availability: 3025

    Availability Rating: E

    Heat: -8
    Damage: 8 x (2)
    Damage increase due to heat: (2-8) per shot
    Minimum range: 0 meter
    Short Range: 400 meter
    Medium Range: 450-900 meters
    Long Range: 1000-1200 meters
    Weight: 7 tons
    Critical slots: 5
    Cost: 2,200,000 C-bills

    Type: Energy weapon
    Manufacturer: Katinka Industrial Inc, Zi Armory, Coromodir Arms
    Primary Factory: Katinka, Blitz Haven. Planet Zi, Citadel. Coromodir

    Tech Base: Exo (alien-experimental)
    Battle Value: 2092
    Year introduced: 3022
    Year availability: 3025

    Availability Rating: E

    Heat: -11
    Damage: 8 x (3)
    Damage increase due to heat: (2-8) per shot
    Minimum range: 0 meter
    Short Range: 400 meter
    Medium Range: 450-900 meters
    Long Range: 1000-1200 meters
    Weight: 10 tons
    Critical slots: 8
    Cost: 3,450,000 C-bills

    Remember, all IS and Periphery style zoid weapons will be 20% weaker than actual zoid weapons. Also, they are slightly heavier and take up more critical spots.

    AN: Chapter 7.02 is mostly edited. I was waiting on some more reviews to make this better for everyone since it's kinda an info dump chapter. I'm still posting it tomorrow tho. I'll add in more edits to it later.
     
    Last edited:
  • Informational
    • Remove ads
    Chapter 7.02: One War ends, and Another is Coming. Heck No!
  • Threadmarks
    • Chapter 7.02: One War ends, and Another is Coming. Heck No!

    ———————————————-
    Location: Coromodir system, Coromodir VI, Rotua Township's Drop port, Magnolia
    Date: March 24, 3022, 05:00


    I looked at myself in the mirror, ensuring my piloting uniform covered anything that might look like genetic modifications. While Zoidians didn't look much different than humans, their glowing eyes and super, almost anime-like hair were. There was a standing order I gave yesterday to the crew of the Magnolia, not to say a thing about my now real history.


    I had also ordered Ian and his Spider-rider squad to hide above the mech bay hanger in case something went wrong. Usually, I wouldn't worry like this. Still, the name of the mercenaries that escorted John Kramer and his team had me worried.


    Wolfpack. A name that seemed like an homage to the Wolf Dragoons but with my luck, they might be Wolfnet operatives. No, stay positive. They could be just honest mercenaries who decided to help my future employees.


    I began my journey to the mechbay when my Ziputer went off. I received a notification that Zin had taken his lance of tanks out to assist in patrolling the area and keeping an eye on ComStar for today. I frowned and hoped he healed enough for this and wasn't pushing himself back to duty before he was ready since half the crew in his destroyed Pike died. The wave of recruits and former members of the Aurigan military joining our forces fixed some of that, but the loss of people still hurt.


    Farida and Toni were working on the Black Knight we got as part of our salvage. They would stay in Magnolia's second mechbay to work on it with a lance of Urbanmechs that joined us. The Dark family was helping scan in the Awesome for production on Moby Dick. I was glad the other two mercenary companies let me have first dibs. Although, I did promise them a brand new set of battlemechs once they were done with the contract. Especially after I offered to help repair all their damaged battlemechs, which gave Moby Dick more information on the ones I didn't have before.


    The Moby Dick was acting as a transport for ships between Coromodir V and VI while secretly spreading a few more of the prototype communications satellites into hyperspace. They should be back in a few hours with the Duke and his people. It would be good to see how Brook performed with his new mech.


    The Markham's Marauders and Sablehart Irregulars had combined their forces to complete a contract against a pirate force that decided to attack the other side of the planet. I knew my paranoia had me blaming ComStar for it. Still, the information I received from Hound revealed it was a legit pirate raid. The forces sent to secure the planetary defense battery had failed in that area. All the Directorate's fault and none of it was ComStar for once.


    I realized I was already reached the first mechbay where Spider Squad was stationed. Hulk was already here, covered in a blanket and pretending to be a statue. He'd demanded I give him a few infantry laser rifles for lunch. I didn't even think he could eat guns for food. Maybe he wants to form some ranged weapons?


    Anyways I walked past several Astechs working on Melody. The Shadow Hawk was being repaired to be sent back to Farida's father now that she has the Black Knight. I saw John Kramer, which meant I now knew like six people with the same first name and his crew. They were looking at the current attempt to repair a salvaged Chameleon by a recently hired mechtech. Besides the group were three Burro Trucks I sent to pick them up.


    There was an APC with a sigil of a Wolf on its side. It must belong to the two mercenaries as they stood nearby it. This was weird. Usually, the contract should have been completed for them when John Kramer and his crew arrived on Coromodir. So are they like me and want to ensure their client arrived safely?


    The newest tech, Sharilar Fox, was a confusing mess to deal with as she instructed Astechs on fixing the Chameleon. She did her job well, but I had sensed several times where her emotions went from hostile to awe around me. I wanted to fire her for the constant feeling of hostility but couldn't right now as she had caught a few spies within Moby Dick. One from the FedSuns and one from ComStar. She also warned everyone of the attack on the zoid core hanger by two members of the Maskirovka.


    I wasn't surprised by the two members from Maskirovka. It made sense since I had pissed off the Capellans enough for them to send their spies and assassins. However, I was surprised about the MIIO agent from the Federated Suns. I'm pretty sure I had done anything to warrant their attention, didn't I? The ComStar agent was evident, but a mechtech catching the man raised some questions. However, we are mercenaries, so I really shouldn't think that. We all had secrets, after all.


    I shook the thoughts out of my head and walked up to greet Kramer, his team, and the two mercenaries with them.


    "Welcome to the Blitz Mercenary Company," I said, offering my hand to Kramer. "I'm Commander Michael Chen." He shook my hand with a firm grip that I was surprised came from a man the same age as my grandfather.


    "John Kramer," he said as we shook hands. "Formerly a lead designer but now just a MechTech of Kramer's Parts and Machinery." Kramer opened his arms wide and said, "these are my best people. Lead exoskeleton tester James Tano and my lead melee combat expert Rika Marcaida."


    I greet the leading two people while trying not to react to the woman's last name. It had to be a coincidence that she had the last name of a martial art master in my time. I then greet the other twenty people with Kramer while committing their names to memory. It was a total of four exoskeleton users, five ASTechs, two Mechtechs, and eight dependents who acted as helpers. More people than I initially thought were coming, but Moby Dick had the room once he returned from his mission.


    "It is great to meet everyone," I said honestly. Despite my paranoia, it was always good to meet new potential friends. I glanced at the two mercenaries that had escorted Kramer's group here. They were tall men compared to me, though the thinner person appeared distracted by something. He seemed to miss seeing me walking up to them as I greeted the first mercenary.


    "Commander Michael Chen," I said as we shook hands. "Captain Michael Andrews of the Wolfpack's Beta lance." The man's grip was firm, but he didn't try to turn this into a test of strength. It was odd as most mechwarriors I interviewed or met seemed to be aggressive when it came to greeting someone.


    "Thank you for escorting my employees here," I replied as the second man finally realized I was there. I offered by hand to the second man, who seemed to stare at it for a moment before shaking it. "Mechwarrior Kurt Brunner," The man said before staring at my helmeted head. I took a step back as his emotions were so mute now after looking away from what distracted him earlier.


    "I have several projects I'm working on that need their expertise. How can I pay you back for escorting them here?"


    I knew I didn't have to give them anything. The Wolfpack were already paid for their services, but I wanted to see their character based on their decision. Most mercenaries would take more C-Bill, which I didn't mind seeing that currency would be worthless here for a while, but if they refused or asked for something else, it would let me check their morals.


    I could feel the eyes of John Kramer and his people on me while the two Wolfpack mercenaries seemed to contemplate my words. Then I felt a hostile gaze on me. That feeling Caused me to mentally sent Wolf a message for Lieutenant Ian's zoid about what to do if someone reaches for a weapon. A soft sound of metal rubbing from above, which most people ignored, told me the orders had been received.


    "Well," It was Captain Andrews that spoke up. "I have some questions I want to ask you as payment." Brunner had only nodded in agreement with his leader. It seemed like the Mechwarrior was still distracted by something.


    "Sure, I have no problems with that. Here," I replied as I gave the man the contact numbers for my Ziputer. I was still surprised by how much tech was put into the device. It was like a smartphone back home but the size of a tablet that can expand. "You can ask your questions tomorrow if you can wait. I have another meeting with the Aurigan Council in a few hours."


    I felt the shock from Captain Andrew, his coworker, and Kramer's group. I guess they were surprised that a newbie mercenary Commander was allowed into a Lord's Council. I saw that Brunner wanted to ask me a question, but his leader cut him off as they quickly said their goodbyes and left. They took their APC back out of the ship as the mechbay doors closed behind them. The internal lights, which happen to be slightly below the Spider Squad position, came on.


    I heard Kramer walking toward me, so I turned to him as he asked, "You have a meeting with the local lords?" I could almost see the question marks coming from him and his group. However, none of my people stopped their job and continued to work. The fact that the workers didn't stop their actions made the confusion slowly fade away from John's groups.


    "Well," I started as I glanced at the mechtech and the trucks that brought them and their equipment here. "Have you ever wondered why a new mercenary company would be willing to spend several million C-Bills on hiring mechtechs with skills in exoskeletons instead of battlemechs?"


    "Well, Zin and his crew said your offer was something special, and I had good dealing with them when they used to run the tank rally," Kramer replied as I watched his reactions. It was good so far.


    "I see," I watched as the Mechbay doors closed with the Wolfpack mercenaries gone. "Well, since we got at least two hours. Let's bring out those exoskeletons. I'll hash y'all a better deal while we go over them."


    Kramer turned to his people and belted out orders as they quickly started unpacking. I signaled everyone else to stand down. I watched the first of what I hope to be Power Armor. Then in the future, Battle Armor.

    ——————————————————————-

    It took an hour to get the exoskeleton out of the trucks. Then, as Kramer and his people retrieved all their equipment out of the vehicles, I ordered Lieutenant Ian and two of his troopers to come down and observe the armor suits. The rest stay hidden above with their partners.


    "Clear the area for testing. MechTech Fox," I said as several Astechs began moving to the mess hall we created. "Make sure everyone is rested and well-fed. You can give me the report on the Battlemech later today." As much as I distrusted Fox, she did her job well, and so far, Toni and Cecilia hadn't seen any sabotage from her when I asked them.


    "Yes, Lord Chen," she replied with amusement. The hostility disappeared as I frowned. "Get going," I said, annoyed. How did people here hear about my potential Lord status already? At least Hulk had sent a mental confirmation that she was okay and no longer a threat. I guess through pheromones coming off the woman. Her hostility was fully restrained now. Maybe I should send her to medical for a mental health check-up? But, no, that would bring more issues.


    I stepped forward with Ian and others to lay the fighting mats on the ground. Sure it looked odd, but I wasn't risking my new hires to an accident. "Sofia. Pedro. You two get your Ziputer recorders ready. I want to send this to John Woods and his team to see how small a Reggel Engine would need to be produced based on these power armor's movements. Tell him to send that data to Moby Dick for Cecilia to see."


    They hurried to get into a good position on the stairway to the Chameleon's cockpit. The height was high enough for a tactical view. But, I need one of them at a slightly elevated spot to see their movements. So, Sofia went up to the cockpit area while Pedro stood at the first stairway bend. I gave them a thumbs up when I saw the recording light.


    "Sir!" I heard Ian say from behind me. I turned around and looked at Kramer's group of six exoskeletons. Three of them seem like the ones I saw on the holoscreen of Solaris VII matches.


    Those three appeared to have been outfitted with knights-style armor. The remaining three seemed to be modified from a HeavyHauler, understandable as I had bought a few for Kramer. Although, it looks like the mechtech went out of his way to get his hands on his own.


    The older man stepped in front of his people and gave an exaggerated bow. I was surprised by how well he moved as he said, "Introducing the Kramer's special Pit Fighter exoskeletons on my left." He gestured to the knight-like armors. It looked much more refined and nothing like what I saw on the holoscreen. I glanced at Ian beside me, staring at the power armor like a starving man. Nevertheless, I could understand his want for it even if its battery life sucked.


    Luckily Kramer didn't hear my thoughts as he started explaining, "After you willingly sent us this project. I believed you to be another fool who thought they knew the next best thing." He started laughing as several of his people did as well. I looked at my bemused Zoid Warrior, who made a slight gesture with his hand that I recognized. The sudden feeling of loss above me said Ian had won a bet.


    Still, I looked closely at the three knight-shaped power armor. "Ian, do you see that?" slightly pointed at the weapon and shields they carry. Before the Zoid Warrior could respond, Kramer spoke up.


    "However, we Kramer keep our word and are willing to use all five million C-Bills you sent us plus that advice you mixed in with your message to make your product." He pointed at the knight's armor with what looked like binoculars on top of its head. "Thanks to your advice, we changed our Pit Fighters into these bad boys here." Okay, that's weird to see an older man say that.




    "This suit is four hundred kilograms of pure power. It has been designed to move at thirty kilometers per hour with only fifty kilograms of myomer. It had over a hundred kilograms of standard armor with a zoom-in function attached on the top. This will allow the user to hide behind the thirty-five kilograms shield."


    The man moved from prone to standing before standing to attention. He then dropped into a combat stance with a rifle out on the side and a shield in front.


    I heard clapping from behind us and knew from how loud it was that Pedro loved it. I didn't mind as I love it too. Based on what I knew about those exoskeletons used in Class 1 Solaris fights, they weigh anywhere from two to four hundred kilograms. Not too heavy for Mechwarriors and zoid warriors to wear into battle. Also perfect for my best infantry troops.


    "We managed to replace the standard battery with one for a high-end vehicle. This allows the suit to operate for two hours. Also, there is a coolant unit built into it for mechwarriors as I believe you might want it," Kramer pointed at one of the Pit Fighters. Finally, they removed the helmet to reveal Jame Tano.


    "My leading pilot managed to strip down a vehicle machine gun and attach a bayonet to it." He pointed at what I thought was a rifle but turned out to be a stripped-down vehicle machine gun with a bayonet at the end. I noticed something mounted or hitched behind each of the knight-like exoskeletons. Each handle sticking out from behind them was different, so I asked.


    "What about the weapons on their back?" I asked the three knights-like ones, who stood at attention. Their three counterparts were still waiting for Kramer to get to them. They looked like they were getting slightly impatient.


    Kramer made a gesture with his left hand for his people to show and tell. I watched Tano remove the item in question. It looked familiar as the exoskeleton user hitched his shield on his back to use both hands to hold onto the weapon. I didn't recognize the gun, but those watching from the spider zoids did.


    "SKKERR!"


    A loud noise that sounded like metal on metal happened above us. Kramer looked around as my people didn't react to the noise as his group did. The power armor team grouped up and pulled out all their weapons while facing all directions. Their dependents quickly hid within the trucks as my people were slightly embarrassed. The zoids had told us the types of weapons on the back of those "Pit Fighters" (which will be renamed) because it was dangerous enough to get past my body armor.


    I open my mouth to try and devise an excuse for the zoids talking above us when Lieutenant Ian decided to act. "Hey, are those stripped-down support lasers? And that one over there, a modified heavy recoilless rifle?" I did not know he could sound so much like an overenthusiastic teenager…oh wait, he's still technically a teen. How the heck did I forget that?


    Well, that was a matter for another time as the boy's enthusiasm managed to regain their attention. Although, I did hear snickering from the two watching from the mechbay.


    "Why yes, they are," Kramer trailed off a bit as he looked at the rank and patch on the kid's shoulder. My mercenary company used the stand SLDF ranks. "Lieutenant. Now seeing that our time is running a bit low." The mechtech check his watch. "Let me hurry and introduce our heavier units to your Commander."


    I realized half an hour had passed, so I replied, "Of course." If I sensed their emotion correctly, I looked at the still tense power armor users. "Y'all can show off your movements over there." I paused for a moment to think about the upcoming meet. I turned to Ian and ordered. "Lieutenant. Go with them and ask if they can help you put one on. I feel confident enough to show this at the meeting today. While it is not perfect, it will be good to see another opinion."


    I pointed toward the temporary housing unit my people set up. Those had been set up after Moby Dick formed a docking collar on its side. Unfortunately, the artificial gravity caused several injuries when nearly everything went sideways upon docking on top of the Whale King. I still remember how Wolf and I almost killed several mechtechs and astechs when we slid into the wall.


    I shook my head to remove that tangent from my head as one of Kramer's units went inside with Ian to switch out. James and the other began hand-to-hand combat and moved quickly through the excise course next to the housing unit. "So, what do you use for a base for these three?" I said while looking at the almost mobile suit-shaped power armor. No, I should call them Battle Armor because it had to be nearly a ton worth of metal and weapons there. I had a rough idea that they were HeavyHaulers, but I wanted to hear it from them.


    Kramer seemed to puff up in pride as he replied, "We used three HeavyHaulers we managed to earn during the trip here. We upgraded the chassis with what we had on hand. Now it has been reborn as a seven hundred and fifty kilograms of anti-vehicle and battlemech POWER." I almost lost it when he said that ending with so much cheese. "I did try to make it like the design you had sent us half a year ago." That explains why they looked like a slightly bulky GM-style head with a weird head and a Jester's back weapons from Gundam UC. Not a slim line like the mobile suit, as you can tell someone has much armor between them and the outside.


    "There is some difference between each one. However, I'll let you pick what would be standard," Kramer said. "All of them have a maximum speed of twenty kilometers per hour and three hundred kilograms of standard armor for protection."


    He then pointed at the first one. "This one is built for ammunition use."


    Kramer then explained what was on the battle armor. "This exoskeleton style has an auto rifle that fires the standard 7.62 mm round in its right hand. The shield on its left has the same design but is heavier than the previous unit. This should allow it to withstand two direct hits from any medium laser." The man took a deep breath before pointing at the two shoulder weapons connected to a backpack. "On its back is one Capellan Vipersting 211 semi-portable machine gun redesigned to hold over eighty rounds and weight a total of one hundred kilograms. The other looks like an energy weapon, right?"


    I nodded as it kinda did. That was when I focused on it and realized it was upon closer inspection. It was an infantry SRM launcher disguised as an energy weapon.


    Kramer noticed my surprise as he chuckled and said, "That a standard infantry SRM launcher hot-wired into the shoulder to fire several shots. We also installed a mount to hold a Vibro-shovel for last defense melee and extra ammo for the SRM and machine gun." The mechtech then walked up to the first one and pointed to several points. "These points were designed to hold extra weapons or ammo for the users. So you could have a fool to not put several extra guns and ammo for later us."


    He then turned to the second unit. "This one looks like the first correct?" I focused immediately on the second one and noticed the differences right away.


    "It just has two different caliber machine guns on it?" I said while noticing that both weapons had ammo feed systems.


    "You got some good eyes there, Commander," Kramer said as he pointed at the same weapon housing the disguised SRM launcher on the previous battle armor. Then he directed my attention at the single-barreled weapon. "This one uses a twenty-millimeter machine gun for a little more damage that can affect a battlemech."


    The pilot chuckled as they turned to let me see the backpack the weapons were linked to.


    "That one has the Capellan Vipersting here," He pointed at the rotary machine gun. "This one comes with a standard auto or laser rifle depending on the buyer's wants." I saw that both weapons were hitched to the side of the backpack.


    "This one should be good for anti-infantry and maybe anti-vehicle work," I replied and mentally up the rating on this one. I wanted to take both with me. However, the desire to test the exoskeletons first overrides my greed. I should bring one that seems fully ready and leave the other two for experimenting before sending the data to Moby Dick and the trusted mechtechs.


    "This last one is a surprise for any mech that gets in its way," The old man finally pointed at the last battle armor with a shit-eating grin on his face. "This one is special. Thanks to Wolfpack's help, we managed to modify and create this one here. That right there is a stripped-down support PPC." This time I was surprised as hell. Using BA weapons like a stripped-down support PPC with these systems shouldn't be possible yet. There is no way the exoskeleton's battery could power it for more than one shot.


    "I know what your thinking, but Zin promised me you had come up with something that would power all these things all day long in our last message," Kramer said. "That's why there is still plenty of room to add more weight to its structure." He sounded confident, but then he didn't know we still hadn't managed to make a working prototype yet.


    Everyone in my command staff knew about my desire to make power armor for our infantry, but we were still working on a small-scale engine. The best we got was a twenty-kilogram engine with five of that being fuel and its tank.


    Kramer continues, "The triple barrel machine gun is an auto rifle in a special housing. It not good for taking on mech but allows the user to use it to take down infantry." I looked closer and realized it was in a larger housing and longer barrel. Instead of four gun barrels, it was three with a center that seemed to be a laser finder. Still, to lose a weapon slot that could be for killing vehicles to focus on infantry seems inadequate. Well, until I remember, PPC tends to wreck the ever-living hell out of most things.


    "How did you even manage to get a support PPC to make this?" I asked as I knew they were good at modifying weapons. That is the whole reason I hired them besides making power armor. However, they managed to turn an eighteen hundred kilogram support weapon into this. "Aren't they usually found mainly in the Snake's territory?"


    He looked at me like I was stupid. I felt like it too. Then, coughing in my hand, "Ah, never mind what I said, but I need to check how much energy I need to feed that PPC with our experimental engine. I have a few to use as testing, but they're on my company's main ship."


    "So," Kramer asked calmly. "My boys and I do a good job?"


    I smiled and offered my hand, which he took. "Welcome aboard the Blitz Company. Let's get you and your boys a Ziputer registered to y'all and get ready to learn a secret of the interstellar community."


    The confused looks on his face and the feeling from his group almost made me laugh while I was sorry for them. They were about to have their world come crashing down around them.

    —————————————————————
    Location: Coromodir system, Coromodir VI, Cordia City, High Lord's Palace
    Date: March 24, 3022, 9:30


    We arrived slightly late to the meeting as it took a while to figure out how to connect the newly named Knight PA(L) to the zoid's system to keep it charged. Lieutenant Ian was having the time of his life based on his emotions the whole way here. I already got a call from Duke Chili that he and Captain Brook had landed with Colonel Gleen and would meet me at the meeting.


    Before we reached the palace courtyard, I heard my Ziputer go off with a familiar ringtone. It was the one I set for Yang of Markham's Marauders. "Yang? What's up?" I said before the holoscreen fully loaded.


    When it did, it wasn't just Yang on the other end. Instead, Darius Oliveira and Sumire Meyer, the XO and Navigator of the Marauders respectively, stood on the other end with the mechtech. I knew something must be up, so I straightened up and waited for a reply.


    "Commander Chen," Darius replied but had paused for a moment before asking. "Or is it Lord Chen now?" I must have made a face because Sumire used her hand to cover her smile or giggle.


    "It is COMMANDER Chen still to y'all," I replied, annoyed they found that out. I had only just found that out yesterday. "So why are y'all calling me as a group instead of just meeting up at the High Lord's palace."


    Wolf was already slowing down to 'jog' alongside Ian's Gurantula. In a few minutes, we would arrive at the spot where the new zoids bonded yesterday. I saw some of the newborn zoids outside playing around the Generator and being watched over by several royal guardsmen. Several of the Shotwalker and their warriors went over to help. I had already told Kamea about my squad of zoid warriors and their partners being here openly. Well mostly.


    "Commander Markham has asked us to contact you about merging our unit with your company," Darius said with a serious face. In contrast, everyone behind him had a solemn look. I stopped breathing for a second before replying, "Well, I can say this is a unique situation for me. Where is Markham?"


    "He's planning to retire here on Coromodir, settling down and taking up a position that he hasn't mentioned to us yet," Yang spoke up, and I heard the faint voices of the others in the crew chattering. I wanted to hit a few keys to expand the camera to see who else was part of this, but I decided not to.


    I was surprised that Markham was settling down here but decided to carry my Ziputer in my hands as Wolf lowered himself to let Hulk and me get out. I was followed by Ian and Sergeant Hassan Raven of Fireteam Raven. Hell, Hassan was the reason we were late to the meeting as he managed to convince me to bring the battle armor as well. I had almost decided not to get it as it was slightly clunkier than the Knight.


    However, it turned out the operator wasn't good enough. To my knowledge, Hassan, who never wore an exoskeleton, swiftly moved with it on and showed everyone how to move around with that much gear.


    "Well, I have no problem with your people joining us, but what exactly is coming along?" I asked as my two escorts adjusted their weapons to look nonthreatening.


    "We have the Sabre, "Darius replied. "Glitch's Vindicator, and the four battlemechs you gave us. All the personnel is willing to join since they've heard of your retirement plan. However, we had to sell the salvage and extra equipment to repay most of the loan." I noticed something that wasn't mentioned as my people gave me the signal that they were ready.


    "What about your Dropship. The Hysteria?" I asked as I walked through the palace doors and into the hallway. Our group passed by a few servants who gasped in fear. I think I hear them shouting to get the Royal Guard.


    There was a grimace from all of them. I almost sighed but decided to say, "How much do you all owe on it?"


    Darius spoke up after a moment, "We need about eight million C-bills to pay for all the repairs we need. Right now, we could get that if we sold our mechs and aerospace fighter but then we would be able to pull our weight when we merged."


    I almost looked at them as if they were stupid. I supplied many things for my people, and we constantly took contracts for the surrounding systems around Katinka. That's not even including the money I made from being a shareholder of Katinka Industrial Inc. I did want to ask about Markham's role in paying the loan off, but I had a feeling it would be something to bind the company to the Coalition. I'll ask him because if there was one thing I knew was that the MC of the Battletech video game and Markham treated their company as a family. So I would do the same. I'll ask Markham later what the deal was to pay it off.


    "I got that covered," I said as I received a notification on my Ziputer and found we could now produce Awesome. "Here is the security code for the money to pay for that. Dock the Hysteria to Moby Dick, my warzoid." I stopped walking for a moment to send the code to the one bank that wasn't connected to ComStar. "Just finish signing the paperwork to get everyone under the Blitz Company so you can access it. Then, contact Zin Ala or Michael Dark to get everything settled."


    "Affirmative Commander," Everyone on the other end said simultaneously. I heard cheering before the connection died.


    I smiled before seeing a squad of Royal Guardsmen in front of us. I'm glad both Ian and Hassan weren't intimidated by the looks they were getting or the guardsmen knee jerk reaction to reaching for their weapons.


    Luckily I saw Mastiff coming up from behind the group, so we waited as the Royal Guardsmen seemed unsure what to do. Then, finally, I waved at the incoming leader of these troopers. "Mastiff," I said, and that caused most of the guardsmen to relax.


    "Lord Chen," He greeted back, and I could feel my face twitch. "Lady Arano is waiting on you. Will your guards be joining you today?" He didn't even stare at the two power-armored men beside me.


    "Yes, they will be this time," I said as both of my men stood at attention. "I was hoping their appearance will give people a more coherent idea of what else I'll be providing after I reveal the truth to the interstellar community."


    I could see the Royal Guardsmen shuffle uncomfortably. It seems like they might know the truth already. They must have heard it from Mastiff or their High Lady as they were some of the few people who knew the truth after the Battle for Coromodir. They had listened to my declaration and the response through the Ziputer. I wasn't sure who else might have heard it tho.


    "Then I'll lead you to the Council Chamber," Mastiff said as he barked orders for the guardsmen to return to their station except for four to escort us to the Council Chamber.


    The double doors opened as we all walked through. The heavy steps from Hulk, Ian, and Hassan echoed through the rooms causing the conversation inside to die. I could feel the awe coming from most of the people in attendance. Oh, there was a hint of fear, but that was mainly aimed at Ian and Hassan. Well, it made sense. People would be scared when two human-sized mechs appeared in a meeting room when a coup happened less than a month ago.


    I noticed several Ziputers in holoscreen mode and my pseudo-history playing on them. Some people weren't here before or wanted to check over in detail before I came. It didn't matter to me.


    "I apologize for coming late to this meeting," I said while giving a bow. I made sure it was the one my parent taught me for apologizing to a friend than to a superior. "It had taken longer than expected to gather the evidence and prepare countermeasures."


    "Lord Chen," Kamea said with a hint of something in her voice I couldn't recognize. "There is no need to apologize for preparing all of us for the future." There was a soft bark, and I realized Zeekdober was sitting to the right of her throne. I glanced around and found the Godos with its Zoid Warrior as well. The memory of when we arrived hit me, and I realized I missed that while I had seen the other newly hatched zoids were outside with the Generator except those two.


    "Then I shall take my seat and read up on what was discussed so that the meeting can continue," I said as I walked to my seat next to Maxwell. Behind the man were Captain Brook and Sergeant Night. I looked around and ensured that while everyone had bodyguards, none felt hostile toward anyone around. I wonder how long these lords, military officers, and business people took to find the best protection for this meeting.


    I noticed Markham next to Captain Zobel at a table near the military leaders. Colonial Gleen and several other men and women I didn't recognize were seated with them. Oh, wait, I also saw Captain Michael Andrews there. Looking over them, I believe everyone at that table was a mercenary, which made me the odd one out as I sat with the Lords of the Aurigan Coalition. However, I did sense a bit of hostility and confusion from one of the mercenaries. I couldn't pen point whom it was giving off that feeling.


    "Hey Maxwell," I said as I sat down. I heard Ian and Hassan send their greeting to Brook and Night. "You're a bit late, Michael, but I can see you've been busy too," He replied as he glanced at the two power armor and Hulk. While I hated that I got a surprising upgrade in nobility ranking (which I still don't know what it is), at least I could drop some of the formalities.


    I read up on who was here and what had been said so far. Based on what I was reading. It mainly went over the previous meeting with those newly arrived Council members who hadn't made it here yesterday. It seems they were cleaning up any Directorate forces found in their business/system. When I came, they were about to reveal the existence of the zoids and ComStar's dirty secrets.


    All the new arrivals had managed to either disable, kill, imprison or repel the Directorate forces once it came out that Santiago was dead. News that House Arano was officially taking over House Espinosa helped end the tension. So everyone here should be supporters of Kamea now, but they might still try something once I show the evidence on our space AT&T. After all, ComStar was well known for their neutrality and charity.


    I heard them finish revealing the truth of there being alien life in the Aurigan Reach. I could hear shouts of denial and/or demands of proof from the newcomers. They just got shown the evidence, yet they can't accept it. Well, we are human, after all. Despite the evidence, slapping someone in the face with the truth wouldn't change their thought process, especially about alien life.


    "There have never been any signs of sentient alien life anywhere in the Reach, and you expect us to believe in it now?" Said a man dressed in what could be called an old fashion business suit. I did a quick check on who he was. Oh, no wonder he was saying that. He is the president of Gwendor-Dorwinion Cartel Proctor Thalion Istagol. His merchant company was the backbone of the Aurigan Coalition and had been running for hundreds of years. A business specializing in Jumpship operations would be in denial of alien life.


    "I can understand your skepticism," It wasn't Kamea who said it but the older person on the Council and new Zoid Warrior, Marquis Pierre-Louis Decimis. "However, allow us to expand upon the evidence." His zoid partner took a few steps towards him and pulled a noteputer out of its backpack. It was weird to see a zoid wearing that. However, I concluded that it was reasonable.


    "Here is the list of evidence I had record keepers look through for Katinka when they shared their history with us," Decimis said. The holoscreen from the Ziputer lit up several lines of text with red boxes surrounding several points. "There were several points that my people managed to find out of Katinka history during the SLDF mass drive attack that matched when the ship crash-landed there. Also, when it was buried due to the attack."


    That was a bit off, but I'll let them set the narrative since, technically, I was unconscious during the event Decimis spoke of. "However, constantly arguing over this point will waste time. There are important subjects that we must reach. Serious enough that first contact is not the priority," the Council Lord said. I wonder how he knew what was going to come next was important?


    "How could this be Lord Decimis," This time, another person, I believed he was the president of Aspero-Dinton Mining company, spoke up. "It is first contact, and you say it is not important enough compared to what will be discussed after? What could be more important!"


    I heard the mummers of agreement from many newcomers and some of the mercenaries that weren't in discussion with the few I knew. There were even calls for Lord Decimis to be dismissed from the Council Chamber so they could continue their conversation.


    I wanted to cut in when the Kamea herself did it for me. "How about the face of the enemy who has kept the Inner Sphere and Periphery in their manipulative hands? The one who help my uncle with his coup. They one is keeping any research on lostech lost. They are also the controllers of our communication and banking systems!"


    Her voice echoes around the chamber. Everyone went silent when that declaration was made. However, I didn't have to wait long as nearly everyone in the room, including several of the Royal Guardsmen, roared in denial. Mastiff stood with over a dozen guards who were readying themselves. It seems they were members of the group who were informed or were a part of the Battle for Coromodir.


    "Quiet all of you," Mastiff roared over the chatter. "We have even more proof of this thanks to the alien life you all denied! So now Everyone BE QUIET, SO WE CAN GET THIS DONE TODAY!"


    Everyone instantly shut up. After all, it was rare for Mastiff to roar in anger to get people quiet and those in attendance knew this.


    "Thank you, Captain Montgomery," Kamea said as she turned her gaze to me. "Lord Michael Chen of the Zoidians will explain all the evidence of ComStar's treachery.


    I felt my stomach drop as I got up to make my report. If these people want to see an alien, they will get to see one completely pissed off at wasting time. I took off my helmet as Hulk stood protectively beside me. I could hear the other two zoids in the room shuffle uncomfortable and see their warriors suddenly stiffen slightly. I could sense everything now with my helmet off.


    Once again, I hear someone gasping and more people shifting in their chairs. I felt the emotions spike with fear and shock. Hulk growled loudly that the other zoids joined in. This caused some people to freeze as the Royal Guardsmen helped them to their seats and ordered the rest to calm down.


    Maxwell and the other slightly shifted away from me for a moment as both my men stood slightly behind Hulk and me. I did hear Brook mutter that he wished he had a holo recorder to record all that was about to happen. I silently decided to humor him and hit the button on my Ziputer as I brought up my evidence.


    I opened my mouth and began to speak about the evils of ComStar's First Circuit and ROM.

    ——————————————————
    Location: Coromodir system, Coromodir VI, Cordia City, High Lord's Palace Council Room
    Date: March 24, 3022, 10:00


    "That's when Captain Esposito came in and wrecked the enemy armor long enough for my men to rip that Behemoth apart," Commander Benny Gleen finished his recount of the mission with the Duke of Katinka to his fellow mercenaries who already knew Commander Chen's history. The rest of the hired guns were absorbed into the show on the holoscreen. Then, the doors opened with loud thumps of armored footsteps. Both of his guards, Sergeant Sarge and Private Tucker, had stepped up to protect him when they realized it was their principal benefactor walking in.


    It was the things that followed Commander Chen that caused them to pause. Sure they had seen zoids before. They were informed after arriving in Coromodir, but the two human-size mechs were what caused all the mercenaries to reach for their weapons. One looked like something out of a Solaris VII Class 1 arena, but the second appearance was that of a demon.


    "Stop that!" and "Stow your weapons, or do you want to die to the royal guards." Came two voices of reason. Those belonging to Commander Markham, who just got off his communicator with a scowl on his face, and Captain Silber Zobel. Their orders to stand down in such a commanding voice like his father made the other mercenaries and their guards halt their action.


    Luckily for all the mercenaries with him, Captain Flavius Valens of the Antian Lanciarii unit asked the best and most pertinent question. "Who is that, and what are those mini mechs following them?"


    Gleen glanced at Commander Markham and Captain Zobel to see who would answer first. Still, they were beaten by the Commander of the Wolfpack Beta mercenary unit. "That Commander Michael Chen and those two human mech shapes are exoskeletons that those mechtechs he hired made."


    That made several people, including himself, look at Captain Michael Andrews, who looked around and said, "What? My company was the one who escorted said mechtechs. What I want to know is what with all the mechanized animals here. I see two dinosaurs and a dog robot. Does it have something to do with the history lesson they started us on about the Katinka system?"


    Benny stared at Captain Andrews, hired just recently by one of the nobles here. At least according to the man in front of him. Then finally, the Colonel asked, "How much do you know about the Commander of the Blitz Company and his personal history?"


    The darker skin man crossed his arms as he responded, "Not much other than he's connected with the lords here. Also, he has enough money to hire a Kramer's Parts and Machinery team to come here." There was a pause as several of the other new mercenaries who hadn't met or fought alongside the Blitz Company started asking more questions while the holovid was playing. "Oh, he also has those weirdly customized Quad mechs."


    That brought a pause as the holovid showed the first animal shape mechs and declared, "These biomechanical lifeforms known as zoids and their humanoid counterparts the zoidians crashed landed on Katinka."


    There was a pause as the information sunk in while the holoscreen continued about the same stuff he learned a few months back. Still, Ben was surprised that no one broke into cries of denial or demanded proof. Oh wait, never mind, as he could see several people fidgeting to shout out. Once the video ended, the voices came out like a tidal wave.


    Ben watched the chaos that news caused commotions among the many business leaders, nobles, and his fellow mercenaries not in the know. Several looked out of the depth, but a few seemed ready to brawl.


    "This lie shall not stand!" Captain Sanlucar Barrameda of the Barrameda's Blackguards shouted as he nearly knocked Ben over as he got up to yell his denial. It was only thanks to Sarge that the Colonel didn't fall over.


    "Cool your jets, man. You hit my superior. If he got a single injury on him, I'd kick your ass," Private Tucker shouted.


    Although Ben was glad for his trooper's comment, he knew the reason was if someone had managed to hurt him on an 'easy' bodyguard mission. Private Tucker wouldn't be able to hook up with Carol 'Foehammer' Rawley tonight.


    Still, Tucker's statement caused tension between the mercenaries who knew about the aliens and those who had recently been hired for a long-term contract with the Aurigan Coalition. Finally, the pressure broke when one of the business people's demands of proof was answered when it was given to all.


    The mercenaries turned to the holoscreen on their table and quickly cycled through the proof. Several fights nearly broke out between them to see the evidence. Tucker and Sarge had stepped between him and the rapidly increasing chaos in front of them.


    Ben just looked to Captain Zobel of the Sablehart Irregulars and asked, "You are taking this surprisingly well. What's your secret?" He didn't bother asking Markham because that man was there when he learned the truth.


    The Lyran man pulled out a Ziputer and said, "All the information shown earlier was already programmed into this device."


    Ben nearly fell over in shock, and his glance at Markham showed that man had also done so. Silber saw their reactions and causally replied, "I bet it was a mistake left in this device, wasn't it?"


    Ben began staving off the newly formed headache when he noticed Sarge getting some C-Bills from Tucker. The teal armored man was muttering about forgetful alien leaders. "Sergeant Sarge. Private Tucker," Ben said in a tone that demanded attention. Unfortunately, it drew a few eyes and ears from the mercenaries around them. "Did you somehow know about how clumsy Commander Chen was with information?"


    "Of course, sir!" Sarge replied. "Griff and Simon told me how the man keeps forgetting things like this were still inside the Ziputers when he handed them out months ago."


    The teal armored man nodded in agreement, which was a surprise for a member of Blue to agree with a Red, and said, "Caboose tends to get the Commander to let stuff slip when they talk. That's how I knew the Reggel Engines we use now are formerly ICE ones that were converted to use alien fuel. Why do you think most of the Reds, Greens, and my group want those engines for our combat vehicles?"


    Colonel Benny Gleen wanted to slap himself as he realized why nearly all his best crews had asked to be a part of the development team or join the deployment lances. They wanted to make a good impression on Commander Chen.


    Ben noticed the other mercenaries looking at him while Captain Zobel had a smug look. However, that smugness dropped when the words of an actual enemy reached his ears. Ben knew what was about to be said as he was told directly by Duke Chili, who the real enemy of all civilized space was.


    Everyone watched as Command Chen stood up and removed his helmet with bated breath. His bright eyes began glowing as he spoke, and the Ziputers reacted. They all showed the ComStar sigil before switching to several texts for each table.


    There were gasps around him, but Ben knew some of what was shown to his fellow soldiers for hire. After all, Duke Chili had shown him what Commander Chen had given him. His father had 'gambled' the money away yet still had enough to buy Adam a cybernetic eye. Ben could feel the eyes of Sarge and Tucker staring at him as they had worked under his father before he took over.


    "Sir," It was Sarge who spoke up. "The reason Staff Sergeant Johnson died was that ComStar wanted to silence him? Because of the 'knowledge', he wasn't supposed to know?"


    "Sarge," Ben quietly whispered. "I'll tell everyone in a bit. There is a reason we have been staying on Katinka besides the contract."


    The Colonel looked around at his fellow mercenaries. Only a few had looks of pure anger, while others looked disappointed or betrayed. After all, knowing that you may have lost people or ran into a bad contract because ComStar wanted what you had hurt. Only a few top-tier mercenary groups had become too famous for false flags or indirect attacks. No one here was them.


    "What I have shown you is what I managed to take from Katinka's and Coromodir's HPG computer systems. As you can see, they have outright lied about their neutral stance and are even acting as a secret Great House," Commander Chen said. The man's eyes kept creeping out several audience members. However, they suddenly narrowed, and the man quickly spun around with his two troopers. Weapons were drawn. Still, they didn't have a chance to do anything as the two metal dinosaurs had already pinned a bodyguard to the ground.


    The man, no Zoidian, sighed before his eyes returned to a silver color. He continued, "They also plant their special service operatives in positions of power or opportunity to deal with certain targets quietly. Those agents are either devoted followers or brainwashed into doing things like that man there." Chen pointed at the detained man.


    "This man was the perfect spy as I only noticed him now," Commander Chen stated as Royal Guardsmen detained the man who had gone silent. It was the first time he heard of Chen's ability to detect a spy somehow. But, then again, that man had gone through a radical change in appearance that Duke Chili told him was due to the K-F jump.


    "So you can sense threats," one of the nobles called out, which caused the hairs on Chen's head to visibly stiffen. That person seemed to be a Founding Houses and Council Lord member.


    "I'll send everyone the notes on what my people can do later. But, right now, let me finish explaining ComStar's treachery to their own people and us," Chen deflected badly as he pressed a few keys on his Ziputer.


    Ben looked at the people around him as they all seemed to realize something. A few mercenary commanders were looking at a few of their guardsmen with a side glance, but no one else had moved to strike Chen like that one man. However, he did notice a look from Captain Valens that said he had questions for those who knew the truth.


    Looking around, it seemed most had already engaged in conversation with Commander Markham and Captain Zobel. Most are asking what they knew about ComStar's betrayal and Commander Chen.


    "Well then," Ben said to his conversation partner. "Ask your question, Captain Valens." There was a pause as Commander Chen's voice revealed even more dark secrets of ComStar. Such as the Holy Shroud, which brought out a loud gasp from nearly everyone in the room. The information stunned Captain Valens enough to distract him from asking his question. Instead, the man took on a thoughtful look.


    Ben looked around and noticed the rest of the mercenaries had also taken on a thoughtful look. It made him wonder what they were thinking.


    "All right, I'm ready to ask my question to all three of you," Captain Valens said loud enough for the rest of the mercenaries to hear. Ben couldn't see them, but he was surprised that none of them interrupted the man. He quickly looked at Markham and Zobel, who both gave a sharp nod of approval for him to ask the question. "What do you want to know?"


    "Why did you invite all of us here? Hell, most of the mercenaries leaders here are green as grass, with only my group and Barrameda's being of any note." The leader of Antian Lanciarii asked.


    Several of their fellow mercenaries nearly jumped the man. Still, Sarge, Tucker, and the Royal Guardsmen around them stepped in to stop them. It would speak poorly of their occupation for newbies to cause a scene. All the experienced groups had known what Captain Valens meant.


    Out of everyone here, only a few had the same firepower as Ben's company. Those groups sat around him too. The Sablehart Irregulars, Barrameda's Blackguards, Antian Lanciarii, and Markham's Marauders (although still rebuilding). The only one not with them was Commander Chen's Blitz Company. The last one was the biggest throughout the Aurigan Coalition. At the same time, Markham was better known for his experience and high MRB rating.


    Ben wasn't sure why the other mercenaries were invited, but that was when Markham spoke up.


    "It's because the lords know everyone here will be blacklisted soon if they don't join ComStar." That caused most of the mercenaries to freeze. "Originally, it would have just been my company, the Blitz Company, Gleen's Armored Calvary, and Sablehart Irregulars. But, instead, they listed us as dangerous to their mission despite our rating as reliable guns for hire."


    The man pulled out a flask and took a sip as more information about ComStar came out, causing more roars of anger from the nobles, business, and military leaders.


    "Wow, it getting heated over there," Ben heard Tucker muse. Still, he was waiting on Markham's answer, so he spoke up. "What is the reason for the blacklisting of the uninvolved?"


    "It's believed all the mercenaries in the Aurigan Reach may have gotten the new militiamechs and battlemechs. Those Guntanks and Gespensts," Markham started chuckling before taking another sip from his flask. "I know that some have spread by your group Colonel."


    Ben rubbed his forehead, the headache from the implied reason other mercenaries were getting targeted. He had only sold a couple of those Guntanks to a mercenary group he was friends with a few months back. It was a good idea to spread the new design around. Ben had even gotten permission from the CEO of Katinka Industrial Inc. He hadn't heard anything wrong happening to them, so he asked. "How is this my fault?"


    Markham replied instantly, "Do you remember the one tech that Commander Chen shared with everyone besides the Ziputers?"


    The Colonel paused for a moment before whispering, "Those Power Connector Ports as he renamed them right. Were they on every Guntank? I thought they should have been only on the ones for the Aurigan Coalition. Did I sell one with them?"


    "Yes, and someone managed to find a severely damaged one," Markham replied as he retrieved his Ziputer and entered something. The holoscreen on the table opened another screen that showed the orders from someone.


    "The Capellans had attacked the mercenary unit you sold those mechs to and discovered the parts. Then they used the HPG to send the message about the Power Connector Ports, which threw everything into chaos with your friends. They ran to Coalition Territory when they heard your group was here. They're with Darius and the others right now. We aren't fighting ComStar and bounty hunters on the streets because the zoid, Hound, is blocking any information about those from being sent out."


    "I see," Ben said, but Captain Valens cut in. "While that bit of drama is all well and good…Why is it that we are here again? Besides being warned about our deaths!?" He pointed at the other green unit leaders in their group.


    "Yes. Besides what Colonel Gleen did by accident," Markham stated. "Nearly all the mercenaries not under contract with ComStar or here as part of another nation's raiding are being targeted to be killed off slowly. That is why I took up this new position in the Coalition."


    Markham's statement surprised everyone. Even Ben and Zobel jerked and turned to stare at the former mercenary. "Lady Arano wanted me to help set up an independent mercenary system for the entire Aurigan Reach. It's because of what Commander Chen will be revealing for the Reach to use after he is done talking about ComStar. It's why all of you are here. Everyone here to help set up a monetary system for contracts for future mercenaries."


    Everyone paused to focus back on the Zoidian and realized he was winding down after answering several questions from a few businesspeople. None of the nobles seem to have asked him any questions yet. However, It seemed like he was about to move forward.


    "That's why I'm here to ask all mercenaries if they wish to sign onto our new mercenary board. From what Lady Arano had set up, it will be based on the system our local alien used to have on his planet. So here, let me show everyone." Markham brought up a large sigil on the holoscreen that slowly translated into English. It stated, 'Zoid Battle Commission.'


    ————————————————

    I sighed in relief as I gulped the water Hulk handed me. It was weird that he didn't break the cup in his claws, but I still appreciated the help. Ian and Hassan wouldn't be able to help with how inexperienced they were with their enhanced strength inside those suits. Oh, they can move and shoot but doing delicate work was impossible without more training. They would have to turn off or remove their armored gloves to eat.


    I had only heard a bit of what the mercenaries were discussing. It sucks that midway through ranting about ComStar. I find out they may have found out about the Power Connector Ports. The ones I had Moby Dick create for the Guntanks and Gespensts. That had almost stopped me from explaining to that one lord. The noble happens to own a college on his land.


    No, he was not in danger. I don't think I convinced him when I could see my eyes' color change in the reflection of the guy's glasses caused his emotions to spike.


    Still, I'll have to thank Kamea. I was starving when she called for a break. As I grabbed something to eat and added more water to the flask I carried, I took a few extra bits of food. I would hand the food Hassan in a bit to let him eat. Ian had already refused, stating that at least one of them should always be with me.


    It sure was reassuring that the recently promoted kid acted like a proper bodyguard. I glanced around the room and saw that most people had returned to their seats. However, Markham was now standing beside Mastiff.


    "Sergeant Hassan, take a break now," I said as I handed him the food. Seeing a man in power armor struggle not to break the tableware looked a bit funny. I walked back to my seat with Hulk following me and standing beside the chair like a statue. I was worried due to his stance and whispered, "Lieutenant Ian. Are you good to still stand like that?"


    "Sir. I'm good to go!" The armored teen replied. I nodded and sat down with Hulk standing to the left.


    It was time to discuss how to deal with the aftermath once we decided to commit the joint attack on all the HPG stations in the Aurigan Coalition. There was pushback on the idea as they would lose the ability to contact anyone outside their solar system. I could still hear some people talking about taking control of the HPG station, but no one knew how to operate it.


    "Lord Chen," I heard Kamea say. "I have just received a report your Captain Ala sent us. It seems important enough to be sent to everyone with one of your devices." I paused, looked at my Ziputer, and realized an unopened message. Then I looked up at the holoscreen still up and saw another one.


    "I shall open the message now on the main screen," I said as I went to work. It opened with a quick tap, and the message appeared on the screen. I carefully read the words until I realized everyone was staring blankly at it. Then, I focused on the text and saw it was in the Zoidian language. "Sorry, everyone, let me translate it to English."


    The message read:


    "Commander Chen. The Darks found several newly arrived dropships transmitting to the HPG using ComStar. It seems those telemarketers had gotten smarter and sent a private, unencrypted message that Hound must have missed. We got incoming mercenaries and Comguard forces heading for Coromodir VI. They should be arriving in fourteen days. They are in a Fortress class dropship called Zamok, escorted by four Leopards. Whatever you are trying to hash out has to be done quickly because we might have a big fight on our hands. Attached are the sensor readings Moby Dick took of the ships."


    The light chatter in the background exploded as everyone's shouts of worry turned into demands of what we should do filled the room. Everyone knew that state of the military here. It was still drained from the coup, and most were currently dealing with Directorate Remnant clean-up outside the system.


    "Should we surrender?" The most common question as a Fortress class dropship wasn't something most planets could ignore, especially with its Long Tom artillery piece.


    "Quiet all of you!" Came Mastiff's voice over everyone. "Let Lord Chen show his new comms network that we shall use for the foreseeable future."


    That caused everyone to shut up before realizing what Mastiff had just said. I noticed the only ones not surprised were Kamea, Alexander, Markham, Lord Decimis, Colonel Gleen, and Maxwell. I wonder how much they knew about the new communications network?


    I cleared my throat as I stood up and presented the new comms network. "I offer this momentous tech to all my fellow lords, mercenaries, and business people." I paused before quickly tapping the file code to project into all the holoscreens in the room.


    "This is a modified version of my people's ZBC satellite network systems that are currently floating in hyperspace," I said as the screen showed the multi-color realm. "Yes, the same space jumpships go through when they jump. No, no," I cut off Istagol, who had opened his mouth to speak up, "I'll answer that question on the Ziputers I'll pass around after this meeting."


    Istagol went quiet as I continued my presentation. However, I saw him starting at the multi-color screen of hyperspace. It was like candy given to a kid. That or someone's dreams were coming true. At least, that was the feeling I got from him.


    "Now, I'll get into how I can station things within hyperspace later and the dangers of it. If anyone doesn't understand, I'll just put it all in as information in the Ziputer. So here is how the new network works."


    I opened a few extra files, which shrunk the hyperspace view but brought up a standard two-hundred-rated fusion engine. A few diagrams appeared with scientific mumbo jumbo that I barely understood. Enhanced memory means nothing if you don't know how to put the information to use.


    Thanks to Cecilia and Toni, I managed to get something worth presenting in the ordinary person's language. "This is a standard two hundred rated fusion engine that most of y'all might recognize."


    I heard some yes and no here and there, but they didn't ask anything yet. I did feel that they were slightly impatient, so I hurried along. "As most of you might know, the creation of Jumpships' K-F drives came from studying a unique frequency coming off fusion engines."


    I saw some nods from several people while most just looked at me blankly. I wanted to cough in my hands to scream that most of the crowd didn't know this. They used it regularly for HPG messages and jumpships. So what happened to explain the basics of how it was founded…oh wait, this is Battletech.


    I lifted my open Ziputer and said. "Well, with those satellites that are within hyperspace. Any fusion engine of two hundred or great within three kilometers of a Ziputer can call anyone else with one. It all thanks to the special frequency in the Ziputer communication system."


    I glanced around to see who might have someone outside the Coromodir system to call out. That was when I remembered I had a perfect person in mind.


    I looked at Maxwell next to me and asked, "May I ask you to call Joyce from your Ziputer?"


    That was when I noticed his smirk on his face, and the realization hit me, "You already called her, didn't you?"


    The Duke of Katinka raised his Ziputer and hit the transmit button. The holoscreen showing hyperspace suddenly vanished as a familiar face appeared. "Hello, Miss Garcia," I said as others around us began asking questions quietly to each other. Some still wondered if this was all an elaborate recording.


    "Hello, Commander Chen," I saw a slight smirk appear on her face and dread in my gut. "Or is it Lord Chen now? I do not wish to be informal in front of High Lady Kamea Arano." I could feel my eyes shift in color but was slightly surprised that she didn't react to my new appearance. I glanced at Kamea, who was covering her mouth with her right hand as she stood up to speak.


    "Miss Garcia," Kamea said with a neutral tone. "Lord Chen shall be the next ruler of the system formerly known as Peratallada. My father, the previous High Lord, had managed to claim the system after seeking the conditions Lord Chen requested."


    I was surprised but decided to deal with it later as I continued. "Miss Garcia. Do you mind showing the room and location of where you are? We have some people who are in disbelief that there is a system of communication that is not the HPG."


    I watched with everyone else as she grabbed the Ziputer and turned its camera to her point-of-view. It was a quick watch as everyone saw Katinka's Governor's palace halls before heading outside to see the only moon in the sky. It was still daytime here and the apparent darkness being shown was almost proof enough. A few people asked questions, mainly the skeptics, but Miss Garcia answered all of them without hesitation.


    I watched the preceding while slowly slinking off to Kamea's group. I noticed that Colonel Gleen was collecting something with his bodyguards from the other hired guns, who seemed oddly satisfied. I also felt Hulk and the two zoids meet up just out of view to talk about something. I saw an image of a weapon before it disappeared and the feeling of what metals were within it. Oh, I think they were discussing food for upgrading their bodies.


    I whispered to Kamea, "So what are our plans for ComStar? They have a few mercenaries coming with their Comguard."


    Kamea glanced at Mastiff as if to see what would be said. It made sense since, this time, she wasn't a frontline general like she would have been. Instead, Mastiff would be her primary source of counsel if something were possible military.


    "We do not have enough information to commit to a direct assault and are still dealing with remains of the Directorate," Mastiff said as he checked his Ziputer. "Right now, at least two Companies of combined arm Directorate Remnants are out there, and it will take time to hunt them down. If we suddenly focus on ComStar, then they could use this as a chance to strike at Kamea directly."


    I thought to myself for a moment about what to do when Ian spoke up, "Sir. Why don't we strike at ComStar here while everyone heads for other systems to take down their HPG? Also, why don't we show all the people there the crimes they committed. I know some friends who join ComStar believing in their lies, but if we show them the truth, it might save us some effort."


    I stared at the boy, and I was sure everyone else was. Even Sergeant Hassan had taken his helmet off to stare at the teen. I looked back at the group with a grin. I saw everyone else had the same idea.


    Thus began a long session of planning and compromising once the rest of the crowd realized what we were discussing. By the end of the day, a plan was formed to terminate ComStar's hold on the communication network and the advancement of human technology. By the end of the month, all of the Aurigan Reach will be free from those toaster lovers.

    — —- —— —— ——

    AN: Sorry for taking so long. Writer's block, RL, and MWO. It's mainly RL tho as I wait for important news.

    Anyways, I'll be posting more information stuff later. Off to hopefully finish chapter 5 of HV or at least another section of it.

    Edit: God dang it forgot to put this in the chapter after spending so long making the image. Here is the actual BA appearance. Yes the colors suck but why would I make it gold, red and white? That just asking for it to get hit.

     
    Last edited:
  • Threadmarks
    • Aurigan Coalition First Battle Armor: Tercio!
  • Informational
    • Welcome the first Aurigan Coalition Battle Armor. The Tercio!


    Code: 
    Tercio TR0-001A
Type: Tercio
Manufacturer: Coromodir Arms/Katinka Industrial Inc/Zi Armory/Kramer's Parts and Machinery
    Primary Factory: Coromodir/Katinka/Planet Zi/Solaris VII

Tech Base: Inner Sphere (Standard)
Chassis Type:  Biped
Weight Class: Light
Maximum Weight: 750 kg
Battle Value: 179 + (x)
Swarm/Leg Attack/Mechanized/AP: Yes/Yes/Yes/Yes
</p>

Equipment                                     Slots      Mass   
Chassis:                                               105 kg    
Motive System:                                                   
     Ground MP:          2                              30 kg    
     Jump MP:            0                               0 kg    
Manipulators:                                                    
    Left Arm:            Armored Gloves                  0 kg
    Right Arm:           Armored Gloves                  0 kg
Armor:                   Standard (Basic)       0      300 kg    
    Armor Value:         7 (Trooper)                             

                                         Slots           
Weapons and Equipment         Location (Capacity)   Mass 
P-ARE Fuel Tank                    Body       1       5 kg 
Machine Gun(M)                     Body       1       100 kg
Machine Gun(H)                     Body       1       150 kg
Shield                           Left Arm     2       50  kg
Anti-personal weapon            Right Arm     AP      10  kg

The armor system can carry 500kg of weight with both arms if locking the shield and AP weapon onto the back.

    Code: 
    Tercio TRO-001B
Type: Tercio
Manufacturer: Coromodir Arms/Katinka Industrial Inc/Zi Armory/Kramer's Parts and Machinery
    Primary Factory: Coromodir/Katinka/Planet Zi/Solaris VII

Tech Base: Inner Sphere (Standard)
Chassis Type:  Biped
Weight Class: Light
Maximum Weight: 750 kg
Battle Value: 209 + (x)
Swarm/Leg Attack/Mechanized/AP: No/Yes/Yes/Yes
</p>

Equipment                                     Slots      Mass   
Chassis:                                               105 kg    
Motive System:                                                   
     Ground MP:          2                              30 kg    
     Jump MP:            0                               0 kg    
Manipulators:                                                    
    Left Arm:            Armored Gloves                  0 kg
    Right Arm:           Armored Gloves                  0 kg
Armor:                   Standard (Basic)       0      300 kg    
    Armor Value:         7 (Trooper)                             

                                         Slots           
Weapons and Equipment         Location (Capacity)   Mass 
P-ARE Fuel Tank                 Body       1        5 kg 
SRM 1                           Body       1       60 kg 
SRM 1 Ammo (4)                  Body       1       40 kg 
Machine Gun                     Body       1       100 kg
Shield                         Left Arm    2       50  kg
Anti-personal weapon        Right Arm     AP       60  kg

The typical AP weapon used on the right arm would end up being a Churee rifle (AP weapon) with extra ammo.
The armor system can carry 500kg of weight with both arms if locking the shield and AP weapon onto the back.

    Code: 
    Tercio TR-001C
Type: Tercio
Manufacturer: Coromodir Arms/Katinka Industrial Inc/Zi Armory/Kramer's Parts and Machinery
    Primary Factory: Coromodir/Katinka/Planet Zi/Solaris VII

Tech Base: Inner Sphere (Standard)
Chassis Type:  Biped
Weight Class: Light
Maximum Weight: 750 kg
Battle Value: 172
Swarm/Leg Attack/Mechanized/AP: Yes/Yes/Yes/Yes
</p>

Equipment                                     Slots      Mass   
Chassis:                                               105 kg    
Motive System:                                                   
     Ground MP:          2                              30 kg    
     Jump MP:            0                               0 kg    
Manipulators:                                                    
    Left Arm:            Armored Gloves                  0 kg
    Right Arm:           Armored Gloves                  0 kg
Armor:                   Standard (Basic)       0      300 kg    
    Armor Value:         7 (Trooper)                             

                                         Slots           
Weapons and Equipment         Location (Capacity)   Mass 
P-ARE Fuel Tank                    Body      1      5 kg 
Support PPC                     Body       2       250 kg
Anti Personnel Weapon Mount     Body       1        5 kg 
Special triple auto rifle      AP(B)      AP       10 kg
Shield                       Left Arm      2       50 kg
Anti-personal weapon        Right Arm     AP       -  kg

The armor system can carry 500kg of weight with both arms if locking the shield and AP weapon onto the back.
     
  • Informational
    • It is the beginning of the end...
    For C* in the Reach.
    Oh yes...

    Well, they all get to be a part of history...
    Meeting an alien...
    And ending the influence of the 6th Great House.

    Ah, the Core can be planted soon...
    Oh yes...
    They shall all have a new beginning...
    Very nice.
     
    Reader mode
    You must login or register to reply here.
    Remove ads
    Back
    Top