Chapter Thirty-Two - Reckoning

Georgian Hills district, Georgia
Northwind
Draconis March, Federated Commonwealth
1 September 3055. 1005 Hours

Lisa marched her Mad Cat down the still untouched residential streets of one of Georgia’s more upscale neighborhoods. Although the battle had been a good ten kilometers to the south, she could still see the smoke on the southern sky from those fires that only now were being attended to.

“Edinburgh must have been like this.” She thought. “Dirty, brutal, one block at a time, battles. The collateral damage down there must be staggering.” She glanced over at her navigational monitor.

“Now leaving Georgian Hills. Entering O’Malley baronial lands.” said the computer.

“I’ll hold the perimeter, Lisa.” Said Gwen from behind her. “Shout if you need my help.”

Lisa nodded and advanced. This neighborhood, all too familiar from the last time she was here, consisted of small houses owned by the employees and servants of Baron Ian. Some of them, she suspected, were also owned by mechwarriors who fought in the Baron’s battalion. She marched with haste towards the large manor house at the end of the street. There was no sign of any enemy mechs about.

“Good, because that means I won’t have to fight my way in. Bad, because it may mean this area’s been evacuated and Daniel with it.”

Automated defenses at the outer gate of the manor house opened fire on her as she approached. Lisa triggered the Mad Cat’s heavy lasers, standard on its primary configuration, destroying the first missile turret before its missiles made it half-way to her. She triggered her own missile launchers against the second as the first’s shots landed home. The light LRMs peppered her mech’s armor, but did no significant damage.

She quickened her pace past the burning turrets and soon moved beyond the residences onto the grounds of the main manor itself. Unlike the last time she was here, it was devoid of mechs. Carefully scanning around her to confirm that, she brought her Mad Cat to a stop and opened its hatch. Cautiously, she climbed out and looked about.

She knew immediately that it was abandoned. In fury, she slammed her fist against the leg of her mech, knowing Daniel was long since gone. “If I hadn’t tried once before, he might still be here.” She swore at herself.

“It looks like they’ve jumped ship. There’s no sign of anyone.” Said Lisa into her headset mike.

“I’m sorry, Lisa.” Replied Gwen. “I have a contact. Looks like Joshua’s making his way here. O’Malley’s bound to be around. You should wait for us to arrive to investigate further.”

Despite the wisdom of the advice, Lisa moved to the giant hole where the front door had been. Placing her hand on the hilt of her claymore, she stepped inside.

The main hall was silent except for the ticking of a nearby grandfather clock, which had somehow managed to not be crushed by Gwen’s rescue. She headed upstairs for the nursery, where she’d last seen Daniel.

“I knew you’d come back.” Said a voice from behind her.

Lisa spun about and drew her sword, but there was no one there.

“I’m not so foolish to get within sword-reach of you, my dear.” It was Richard, that much she was certain. “The room in which you stand bears many scars, you know. My mother died in there, and with her, my brother’s sanity.”

“Am I supposed to feel sympathy for you? For your family? Is that it?” retorted Lisa. “You knew what he was and you stood by and did nothing anyway.”

“He was my brother. Just as your son is my nephew. He belongs with the O’Malleys.”

“Where is he, you son-of-a-bitch?”

“Long gone. My father has fled Northwind with my sister and nephew. You and I together have forced their hand. Between Daniel and what I uncovered about the true Conspiracy, they will not find rest for a long time. But at least, Daniel is with his true family.”

“Show yourself, coward, or I do I have to hunt you down.” Out of the corner of her eye, she saw a shimmer and she remembered. “The stealth suit!”

She swung her sword at the shimmer, only to hear and feel the clanging as her blade struck his. The shimmer faded as O’Malley turned off the suit. “You’re sharper than I thought, Lady MacLeod or should I call you Justice.”

“Justice might be more appropriate, for that is what is going to be delivered.” She said, slashing right then left. O’Malley parried both blows and backed away.

“You’re forgetting that I taught your husband how to beat my brother. Don’t think I didn’t keep a few secrets in reserve.”

“If that’s so, why blame us for what happened? You gave us the tools to defeat him.”

“He wasn’t supposed to die!” said Richard in fury, launching into an offense of his own. A quick snap of his blade caught Lisa under her left arm. Blood splattered from the gash onto the floor.

Lisa backed up, but O’Malley didn’t relent. She parried blow after blow, but decided to take back the initiative herself. She dove to the floor and rolled as O’Malley cut a viscous slash where her neck would have been. Now behind him, she spun and slashed down across his back. Only his quick reflexes kept the fight from ending right there. The cut was shallow.

O’Malley turned, surprised he’d been so easily outmaneuvered. “I’ll not make that mistake again.” He said coldly.

“You won’t have the chance.” Said Lisa. She leaped forward, thrusting at his chest. O’Malley sidestepped and slashed downward against her sword. The blow jarred Lisa and O’Malley pinned her sword down. With a quick backhanded punch, he knocked her away.

He kicked her sword across the floor before turning on the dazed Lisa. “I don’t think so, my dear. First you, then your husband.”

Rather that simply lie there and get stabbed to death, Lisa bolted for her sword. Surprised at her swiftness, O’Malley nearly spun and slashed across her back in much the same way as she tried to do to him. Unlike her blow however, he struck home. Lisa cried out and slid across the floor, unconscious before she ever reached her sword.

O’Malley walked over to her, nearly slipping in her blood that she’d smeared across the floor by the slide. “I suppose I could take you head and stick it on a pole outside.” Said Richard with a sick chuckle. He suddenly paused. He could feel mild vibrations through the floor.

“Damn, not enough time.” He spun on his heel. “I’ll finish you later.” He closed the door behind him and locked it.

He dashed up the stairs and onto the front balcony of the mansion. Resting against the railing of the balcony was a Minolta 9000 sniper rifle. He snatched up the weapon and pulled back on the bolt. It snapped into place smoothly, a testimony to the construction of the weapon.

“Less satisfactory than the blade, but unlike your wife, I know you’ve been preparing for me. Best not to take my chances.” He said to himself. He scanned ahead and saw the Cauldron Born approaching the compound. Behind it marched an Assassin.

“Switched machines on us, eh?” said O’Malley to himself, commenting on the Cauldron Born. He drew the reticule across the mech’s cockpit. “No matter.”

The Cauldron Born came to a stop beside the Mad Cat. O’Malley waited patiently for Joshua to open the hatch.

The canopy began to open.

Below him, he suddenly heard a scream. “Joshua, NO! Above me!”

The canopy suddenly snapped shut again. In fury, Richard squeezed the trigger, but the bullet ricocheted harmlessly off the armored glass. The Cauldron Born turned and brought its autocannon to bear on the mansion.

“Shit!” swore O’Malley, turning to run inside the house. Joshua opened fire, raking the balcony with 75mm cannon shells. The stone balcony was pounded into powder by the impacts. Dust clouds erupted from the shattered stone, obscuring the view of the wreckage.

“Did I get him?” asked Joshua, marching Steppenwolfe closer to the building.

“I don’t know.” Said Gwen. She popped the canopy of her mech and lowered herself down.

Joshua did likewise. He drew his sword and walked towards Lisa.

“Gwen, she’s hurt.” He said, picking up his pace and heedless of danger.

“Coming.” Replied Gwen, drawing her pistol and surveying the grounds before moving up behind him.

Joshua turned to his wife. “Are you alright?”

“I will be.” Lisa winced. “Cut me a few times with his sword.”

“That gash looks nasty.”

“It feels it, trust me.” She said, “but I’ll live. I’m in far better shape than you were the last time we had to kill an O’Malley.”

Gwen moved over to the pulverized front of the house. Joshua’s cannon had ravaged it into rubble. “No one could survive that.” Said Lisa.

“And yet he has.” Said Gwen, leaning down to shove a piece of stonework aside.

Underneath the stone was the broken and battered body of Richard O’Malley; He was still alive, but barely. His right leg was gone below the hip, and only the wreckage lying on top of him had kept him from bleeding to death. Richard raised his head as Joshua walked over.

“I’ve still won, Messer.” He choked. “Daniel’s gone. You’ll never see him again.”

“Don’t count on it, bastard.” Said Joshua, thrusting his sword through Richard’s throat. Richard gurgled for a second and then died.

“Mercy was too good for him.” Said Gwen cruelly. “You should have just let him bleed to death.”

Joshua pulled his sword away, wiped it on the grass, and said nothing.

“He was right, wasn’t he? He did win.” Said Gwen grimly.

“No.” Said Joshua defiantly. “He hasn’t won. Our son is alive and out there somewhere. We will find him, one way or the other.”

The End

Star Sword : Shattered

Chapter Thirty-One - The Battle of Northwind

Spaceport, Georgia
Northwind
Conspiracy Occupation Zone, Federated Commonwealth
0645 Hours. 1 September 3055

The huge Mammoth class transport dropship touched down on the tarmac, dwarfing all ships nearby. Two mechs of the 1st Conspiracy regiment marched towards it to begin their inspection of its cargo.

“Hey, Joey, what do you make of this? Those cargo bay doors seem to be modified.” said one, piloting a Captivator.

“Yeah, and we weren’t scheduled this arrival until last week. Something’s fishy here.” said the other, in a Tarantula.

“Keep sharp then.” As they closed, one of the cargo bay doors began to open.

“Hey, something’s going on.”

Dropping out of the half-open bay door was a Clan Mad Cat bearing parade colors of forest green, magenta, and navy blue. It raised its left arm, twin beams of light arced out and struck the Tarantula, boring clean through it and detonating its SRM ammo. The mech exploded in a huge ball of flame.

“We are under attack. I repeat, we are under attack!” screamed the Captivator pilot into his communicator, but all he got on the other end was static.

Other bay doors opened and other mechs poured out: mostly Omnimechs like the Mad Cat. “It’s the Star Swords!”

A PPC shot from Mechlanthon’s Exile silenced him quick, but other Conspiracy mechs began to close on the Mammoth as the Swords moved to secure the tarmac.

“Take out the control tower and secure the perimeter.” ordered Joshua. Four PPC blasts from a Swords Masakari blasted through the tower’s concrete base and made it come crashing down on top of the terminal in a huge cloud of dust and smoke. Swords mechs fanned out to engage the single company of Conspirators that held the space port.

Star Swords 4th Battalion Staging Area Gamma, Georgia
0702 Hours, 1 September 3055

“Did you hear that?” said Lisa, rapping on the canopy glass of Gwen’s Assassin to make sure she got her attention.

“Explosions coming from the spaceport. Looks like attack has begun.”

“Now it’s our turn to move. Get this heap moving.”

“Hang on.” Said Gwen, pushing the throttle stick forward. The 40 ton mech lurched forward, advancing the small handful of blocks towards an old Highlander compound, one presently used by a lance of Conspiracy Star Swords.

“Doesn’t look like they’ve moved. Seems Juan was good on his word.” Said Gwen.

“I knew he would be.” Said Lisa confidently. “After all, he’s been very helpful. Not did he give us the data on O’Malley’s security, but also told us about this place. He knew we’d not be wanting to sit out the battle. Let me down here.”

Gwen brought the mech’s hand up to cradle her passenger and lower her to the earth. Surprised to see a Highlander Assassin approach their base, several of the Star Swords techs and mechwarriors looked on with curiosity.

“Lady Lisa?” said one, obviously a New Belfast native.

“I am requisitioning one of your BattleMechs. Stand aside, Sergeant.”

“I can’t let you do that.”

“You can and you will, Sergeant.” Came a voice across a loudspeaker. Behind the assembled group, a Thor powered up and stepped out of the hanger.

“Juan.” Said Lisa with satisfaction.

“I should have picked another depot for you.” Apologized Juan. “This one only holds a heavy lance. I know preference for medium class machines.”

“No matter. That Mad Cat will do nicely.”

“Sergeant, hand over your master key and allow General MacLeod to pass.”

The sergeant pulled the key off of his neckband and handed it to Lisa. Lisa headed over to power up her new mech.

“So, are you here to keep your people in line or join the fight?” asked Lisa as she put on her headset radio.

“I’d like to join the fight if I could.” Said Juan. “I’ve a score to settle with a certain Duke.”

“It’s good to have you back, Juan.”

“I’m sorry things came to this. I should have trusted you. All of you.”

“We’re all human, Juan. Everyone of us.” Said Lisa, stepping into the cockpit of the Mad Cat.

Georgia Convention Center, Government District
0650 Hours. 1 September 3055

“General, we are receiving scattered reports of skirmishes within the city.” said an aide as he dashed into one of the early morning planning sessions for the Conspiracy.

Ryan Steiner stood up. “What do you know?”

“Not much. It seems central communications are having trouble. It seems an attack force of unknown composition has hit the spaceport.”

Steiner let out his breath. “So it has begun. I need confirmation. Force composition. Location. Let’s get the troops ready to…”

The Duke did not get to finish his sentence before a machine gun went off. Duke Ryan dove to the floor as bullets chewed through his aide, splattering blood onto the battle map in front of the assembled generals. Before the attacker could send some of his deadly ammunition at them, gunfire erupted down the hall as the generals’ bodyguards rallied to aid their charges.

General Atherton, commander of the 1st Conspiracy, jumped up and slammed the door shut. “Loki assassins.”

“Where there’s one…” said Steiner. “Let’s get out of here. There’s a back door that will lead you to the escape ship. We’ll compose our counter-strategy on the move.” He ushered the men out the back door and then darted in behind them.

Georgia Central
0715 Hours. 1 September 3055

Steppenwolfe moved cautiously between the skyscrapers of Georgia’s commercial district. After the 1st Conspiracy had been driven from the spaceport and into the streets, the lighter Star Swords mechs had pursued with the intention of destroying them down to the very last mech. In the somewhat chaotic pursuit, Joshua found himself separated from the other members of his lance.

“General, I have new signals approaching our position.” said Mechlanthon. “It seems the 1st Conspiracy have gained some reinforcements.”

“The rest of their regiment?”

“Yes, sir. It would seem so.”

“Any sign from the Highlanders or the Sword’s 4th?”

“Negative, sir. If they’re in the fight, they’re in reserve.”

“Good. Are the Lyran Guard and Genyosha off-loaded yet?”

“Not yet, sir.”

“Knew the good news wouldn’t last forever. We’ll have to buy them the time they need. This’ll all be for nothing if we can’t get away from the spaceport. General Messer to all Swords mechs, expand the perimeter to 1 kilometer from the spaceport. All pursuit mechs return to the spaceport. We’ve got to hold those Conspiracy mechs off.”

“Stretching the perimeter spreads us awfully thin.” commented Ryan.

“I don’t want to get trapped in there.” He paused. “If worse comes to worst, the Swords can still escape to do the job we came here to do. Victor’ll be on his own.”

“I heard that.” said Prince Victor.

“Sorry, my Prince, but....” Joshua did not get the chance to finish before Mechlanthon interrupted him.

“General, new signals closing on you fast!”

Two jungle green Battlemechs turned the corner three blocks down from Joshua: a Warhammer and a Griffin. The Conspiracy reinforcements have arrived.

Joshua launched a salvo of LRMs at the Warhammer, which peppered across the mech’s heavy armor. It responded with a pair of PPC blasts. Within the confined street, Joshua was unable to dodge and both slammed hard into Steppenwolfe. The blasts knocked the Cauldron Born off its feet and into a nearby bank.

Joshua forced his mech to its feet as the Warhammer began to close. The Griffin stayed back; It was a better long range fighter anyway. But the Griffin was soon joined by a Trebuchet and an Enforcer, no doubt the rest of the lance.

“Star Colonel, I’m in trouble.” said Joshua as the Griffin lobbed LRMs over the Warhammer’s head. Joshua slammed his feet down on the reverse throttle, backpedaling away from his opponents. The missiles struck the street and blasted the blacktop road into powder.

“Aw, come on, Colonel. Don’t tell me these rejects are giving you trouble?” said a voice; Logan.

A PPC and gauss shell slammed into the side of the Enforcer as it stepped into an intersection. Although previously undamaged, the Enforcer shuddered under the attack as the twin weapons ripped the right arm and its primary weapon from the mech. The Trebuchet turned to face the new opponent, leaving Joshua only to fight the Warhammer and Griffin.

The Nightmare stepped out onto the same street as Joshua and hammered the Trebuchet with its potent weapons. The 50 ton missile carrier disintegrated under the barrage, leaving only a pair of legs where the mech once stood. Joshua fired his twin lasers at the Warhammer, chewing through to the mech’s SRM ammunition bays. An explosion ripped through the Warhammer’s right side, knocking the mech into a building and burying it in rubble. The Griffin pilot fired his jump jets and escaped onto the next street over.

“See? No problem.” said Logan.

Joshua ignored his cocky savior's flip comments. “Logan, you take the Dark Rangers and go after the Government Center. We’ll draw off the Conspiracy regiment here.”

“Good plan, Joshua.” interjected Victor. “The Rangers are better suited for that kind of action anyway. We’ve almost got our forces off-loaded. I’m sending the mechs I have into the streets to bolster your perimeter. Tai-sa Asano is doing the same. The battle will be fought here! The Rangers will do the dirty work.”

“Whatever you say, my Prince. You heard the man. Hold the perimeter and pray Agent Bairn and Lisa got the Highlanders and Conspiracy Swords battalion out of our hair.” said Joshua.

Mechlanthon and the Swords command lance joined up with Joshua. “We’ve got to give them an opening or the Rangers aren’t going anywhere.”

“The Conspiracy mechs are almost in weapons range.” said Victor. “Hit them. Hit them now while they’re still on the move.”

The not-so-distant sound of weapons fire told Joshua that the battle had begun. Conspiracy mechs suddenly poured into the streets near Joshua’s command lance. Over an entire company was being pushed back by the forces west of Joshua’s lance. Those would have been Ryan Smith’s Dirty Dozen.

“Nail them.” he ordered.

More concerned with the forces at their breast, the Conspirators failed to notice the single lance of Swords mechs strike their left flank.

Ryan’s Mad Cat was in the middle of the fray, blasting away with its twin PPCs. A barrage slammed into a Conspirator Thunderbolt. Joshua closed with Ryan’s target and hammered it with an autocannon barrage from his Class Ten. The burst ripped through the mech’s LRM launcher, tearing it from its mountings.

Mechlanthon fired his jump jets and rocketed over the battle and landing right beside a Conspirator Whitworth. He spun his mech around and fired his PPC. The single blast ripped clean through the lightly armored missile carrier. The wreckage was tossed backwards into Amanda’s mech, who batted it aside to get at her opponent, a Conspirator Dervish.

The battle was blatantly one-sided. The Conspiracy regiment was neither well trained nor well equipped, outfitted as they were with mostly Succession War era mechs. They were grossly outmatched by the Star Swords and their Omnimechs. Joshua knew that the Duke Ryan’s homegrown regiments had more potent upgraded mechs, including some stolen Clan designs aside from those they’d stolen from him, but they were nowhere to be seen.

The Conspirators, now routed, began to pull back rapidly. In their wake, they left nearly a full battalion of their fallen comrades. Alliance losses had been minimal. Only a handful of the enemy were even capable of retreat.

“Something smells fishy here.” said Joshua to himself. “This was too easy.”

“Press the attack.” said Victor, elated with victory.

Whatever was going on, Tai-sa Asano of the Genyosha sensed it as well. Victor should have, but he was almost drunk with victory. “Is that wise?” questioned the Kurita commander.

“I doubt it.” responded Joshua prophetically. As he feared, dozens of contacts suddenly appeared on Joshua’s radar screen.

“New contacts.” said Mechlanthon. “Almost two regiments.”

“Identify? Who are they?” said Joshua anxiously.

“I’m reading Captivators, Minutemen, and Marik designs. It’s more Conspiracy troops, probably their mercenaries and the 2nd regiment” said Amanda.

Joshua let out his breath. “Still no sign of the Highlanders?”

“Negative. I think Bairn did his job.”

“Kou Fairchild, where are you?”

“About five blocks west and two blocks north of your position, sir.” Came Kou’s response. “5th Battalion present and accounted for. We’re only down three mechs from combat losses.”

“Take your Battalion and flank the incoming Conspiracy force.”

“Roger that. We’re on the move.”

“That’ll break the line.” said Victor, reality coming back to him.

“It’s my intention to keep the Conspiracy from exploiting it. Victor, bring your 2nd Battalion up to cover their maneuver.”

“You’re spreading us thin.” said Asano.

“I intend to make us thinner.” said Joshua. “Check your ammo stores. If we don’t break their initiative now, they’ll pick us apart after our ammunition is spent. Dirty Dozen, prepare to charge.”

“Are you crazy?” said Ryan.

“We have the advantage, even in the city.” said Joshua. “And we might just intimidate them into falling back.”

“Go for it, General.” said a reassuring Logan. Joshua wondered from where the transmission originated. Logan should have been long gone by now.

Joshua brought Steppenwolfe up to a full run. Falling into line behind him were his command lance. On adjacent streets, Sword mechs began their charge. “Spread out. Maximize our contact points.” ordered Joshua. Lances broke apart to widen the line as the Swords rapidly closed the gap with the advancing Conspiracy forces.

Joshua and Mechlanthon encountered a medium lance of mercenary mechs. Mechlanthon, who’s mech was much faster, took the lead and opened fire with his SRMs into the lead mercenary mech. The Phoenix Hawk got a torso-full of missiles, but it didn’t slow that mech down. Joshua followed it up with his LRMs, smashing into the same mech. That got its attention and the impacts made the mech misstep and slide on the slick concrete street.

Joshua didn’t miss a beat to open up on the next mech in line, firing his autocannon. The Highlander Blackjack returned fire with its twin heavy lasers. Both volleys hit and one ton of armor was destroyed. Joshua snarled, but was pleased he now piloted a heavy mech instead of a medium. Any of the Galileos would be in much worse shape than the Cauldron Born by now.

Joshua pushed down on the accelerator, bringing his mech to a run and firing his lasers into the Blackjack. Beside him, the Phoenix Hawk came back to its feet and fired one of its heavy lasers into Mechlanthon’s Grendel. Joshua gritted his teeth and swerved his mech to one side. The Cauldron Born struck the Phoenix Hawk in a glancing collision, only slightly slowing its run. But it had the effect Joshua wanted. The Phoenix Hawk was unbalanced and fell back down.

What it had cost him though was the room to maneuver. The Blackjack had drawn a bead on him now and was about to fire another volley of lasers.

“Oh no, you don’t.” said Mechlanthon. His use of a contraction was far less surprising than the PPC blast that ripped though the left arm of the Blackjack, blowing it off. It was uncharacteristic of Mechlanthon to assist a warrior he respected in a one-on-one duel.

Joshua cut loose with the autocannon again into the damaged Blackjack at point blank range. The shells ripped through the mech’s center armor and blasted into the Blackjack’s gyro, crippling it. It crashed over backwards as Joshua looked up to face the next two mechs.

They were a pair of Vulcans, deadly city fighters. But in this stand-up fight, they were no more potent than any other medium mech. Joshua lunged Steppenwolfe forward. Three pulse lasers arced over his mech’s surface; A fourth narrowly missed only to scorch the building behind him. A computer alarm sounded off, warning Joshua that his armor had been breached in several places. His mech’s extra stamina was now gone.

Mechlanthon stepped up, firing his SRM pack into the twin mechs. He followed that up with a PPC blast. Lightly armored, the first Vulcan lost a leg and the adjacent arm in that barrage. The mech crashed to the street.

Freed of having to fight two opponents, Joshua fired a pulse from the large laser into his Vulcan. Unable to take even one hit from such a potent weapon, the Vulcan staggered back, heavily damaged. It turned to run, but Mechlanthon finished it with a PPC to the back.

Joshua glanced down at his radar screen. The charge had worked. Fifth battalion’s flanking maneuver had just begun and the Conspiracy forces were falling back, disoriented and frightened. Unfortunately, this had been a costly maneuver. Joshua knew that the enemy had taken down a few of the Swords before being forced to withdraw.

“Ammo check.” said Joshua. He scanned over his own stores. The final pulse laser attack from the Vulcans had scrapped his LRM launcher, making its nearly full ammunition complement useless. His autocannon was down to only 3 bursts.

“My SRM is almost empty.” said Mechlanthon.

“Let’s hope it’s enough.” Said Joshua. “They know they’re backed into a corner. That’s why Duke Ryan threw the kitchen sink at us.”

---

A little more than a kilometer away, Logan and the Dark Rangers were marching through the burning city streets of Exiletown. The fighting in this part of the city had been particularly fierce, as the Genyosha regiments clashed with the elite of the Conspiracy. To Logan’s surprise and dismay, most of the mech carcasses that littered the streets were of Kurita mechs. Had the Swords not flanked Ryan Steiner’s bodyguards, it was quite likely the 2nd Conspiracy regiment would have pushed through to the spaceport.

By now, all the Alliance ground forces were active. The aerospace support would be off-loading next and it was vital that the lines hold until they were also finished. But Logan and company were not here to ensure the perimeter remained intact. They were hunting an old friend.

“You know, we shouldn’t be doing this. General Messer....” said Kai.

“I know what he wanted.” said Logan. “But I suspect some of our old friends have already taken care of their generals for us. We didn’t spend three months on this rock without learning just how tenacious our rebel friends can be.”

“You put a lot of faith in Nathan.” asked Rohan.

“This whole operation was carefully planned. You’ve heard the chatter. The Highlanders have mostly stood down and are not engaging us. Do you honestly think Bairn’d stop at that?”

“Careful, boss.” said Abel, Christian’s son. “I’ve got an enemy mech two blocks ahead.”

“Just one?”

“It seems to be a Thor, sir. A Clan design. Wait, its IFF transponder signal is Star Swords”

“Must be an equipment malfunction. We’re too deep into the city for there to be Swords mechs about.”

“It’s no error, Captain.” Said a voice. “This is Kommandant Juan Miranda of the Star Swords 4th Battalion. I’m here to join your hunt.”

“You were supposed to stand down, Kommandant.”

“As I’ve said to others, I’ve got a score to settle. Duke Ryan is in the area. Be mindful.”

At that very moment, pulse lasers raked across the buildings, tearing two large furrows in the armor of Juan’s Thor.

“Backstabber!” snarled Duke Ryan. “I should have known not to trust one of O’Malley’s lackeys.”

Logan marched up and passed Juan as he tried to get his mech out of the line of fire. A full company of enemy mechs was bearing down on them, all brand new designs and led by a single Grand Titan. Ryan Steiner and his command company had arrived.

“You may have won the war, fools. But at least I’ll get the satisfaction of taking you with me.” taunted Ryan Steiner. The pilot of his Grand Titan drove the point home by cutting loose into The Nightmare with his LRM launchers.

Steiner and his pilot followed up the attack with another pulse laser attack. At moment, the rest of the company smashed into the bulk of the Dark Rangers. A huge melee erupted.

After their losses on Northwind, the Rangers had only managed to fill a handful of their open positions. They were understrength by three mechs, despite Juan’s surprise arrival. Steiner’s forces were of equal skill, but were slightly better equipped and outnumbered Logan’s men.

With Steiner was one of the stolen Balrog Omnimechs the Conspiracy owned. Armed with a brutal combination of laser cannon and a targeting computer, it waded in among the fray, its heavy armor making nearly invulnerable to all the weapons fire. It trained its sights on Rohan’s Mantis and fired a full barrage. Laser after laser ripped through the Mantis’s light armor like it was paper, destroying vital systems. Rohan, fearing for his life, punched his eject button and rocketed into the sky. The Mantis exploded beneath him in a huge fireball.

Logan swore and backed up to cover Rohan as his parachute deployed. The Balrog had other plans as Cowboy brought his Banshee to bear on the Balrog. Far more evenly matched, Cowboy’s mech hammered the Balrog with twin PPCs and a gauss cannon. That hurt it.

Logan’s distraction gave the Grand Titan enough time to pummel The Nightmare once more with a volley of pulse lasers and missiles. Unfortunately for Steiner, his mech’s weapons were almost too diverse. No one weapon had the punch to seriously hurt Logan’s mech. To keep up with the damage Logan’s Clan-based weapons could inflict, Steiner’s pilot had to push his mech to its limits. And his heat level had begun to rise.

Meanwhile, Doc and the rest were tackling with the bulk of the Conspiracy force. Doc’s Ryoken was taking a beating but the former technician was giving as good as he got. He’d modified the mech to carry a configuration similar to the one General Messer had preferred on Galileo III: a gauss cannon and medium lasers for support. Without the Galileo III’s advanced targeting computer, the configuration was not quite as potent, but it made up for it with increased firepower in the form of a Streak SRM rack.

Doc had moved his mech alongside Juan’s Thor and the two of them were holding the line against wave after wave of Thunders, Captivators, and Minutemen. Behind those mechs, the lethal missile carriers called Apollos rained LRMs down on the hapless Rangers. A blast from a Conspiracy Thunder’s Class 20 autocannon brought down Grayson’s Shadow Hawk, but Doc doughnutted the mech with a gauss shot a few seconds later. The Thunder went up in a huge fireball, severely damaging the building next to it.

Doc suddenly became aware that all the firepower being released was seriously damaging the nearby buildings. The Thunder’s destruction seemed to spell the doom of that office building and it began to sway. “All Rangers, pull back!” screamed Doc, backpedaling his Ryoken out of harm’s way. Juan fired his Thor’s jump jets as the building came down into the street. It crushed a Conspiracy Minuteman that couldn’t get out of the way in time and raised a huge cloud of dust the blanketed the battlefield.

Masked by the dust cloud, Cowboy pulled back from the Balrog. Badly damaged, his Banshee had lost both of its PPCs to a lucky hit from the Balrog’s twin heavy lasers. With his gauss rifle now empty, Cowboy found himself robbed of most of his firepower. But the Balrog was almost in as bad a shape. A few lucky hits from Cowboy’s gauss had all but crushed one of the demonic mech’s jump nacelles, making it impossible for the mech to jump.

Logan also took advantage of the cloud, not to give ground, but to take it. He closed on the Titan’s last position, hoping to give the damaged assault mech a lethal volley at point blank range. As the dust cleared, Logan discovered to his dismay that Steiner had moved away. A dozen warning alarms went off in The Nightmare’s cockpit as lasers tore into the soft back armor of the Awesome. Steiner may have been no mechwarrior, but the soldier piloting his mech knew his stuff. Logan had been outsmarted.

“Critical hit: Engine. Critical hit: Gyro. Critical hit: ER PPC. Criti....” chimed his computer before it shorted out.

With its gyro damaged, The Nightmare fell forward onto the pavement. Impact with the ground crushed the mech’s heavy pulse laser in its housing, robbing the mech of two of its three heavy weapons. All that remained was the gauss rifle and the SRM launcher. The SRM launcher was loaded, as always, with inferno rounds. On the ground, he was nearly helpless and the Titan was closing for the kill.

As Cowboy cleared the dust cloud, the Balrog charged out of nowhere to slam into his Banshee. The impact knocked the 95 ton mech into a nearby building. The weakened building collapsed on top of the Banshee, pinning it under tons of rubble.

The Balrog turned to face another target only to get a blast of SRMs in the face from Doc’s Ryoken. Blinded for a brief second, it staggered backwards into another building. As it crushed mortar, glass, and steel with its huge bulk, Juan hammered it with the last of his autocannon shells. The gun clicked dry just as the last of the Balrog’s heavy chest armor fell away into the street. Seeing his opening, Doc fired his lasers, drilling through the massive mech’s chest and destroying its gyro. Crippled, the Balrog fell forward into the street.

Not far away, Steiner’s mechwarrior was about to press his advantage when his computer chimed in with a warning of its own. “Heat level critical: Shutdown sequence initiated.”

“NO!” swore Steiner. He reached up and smacked the pilot on the head, a pointless gesture of frustration as the pilot’s neurohelmet more than softened the blow. As he watched his mech’s systems turn themselves off one by one, he also watched Logan slowly bring his nearly crippled mech back to its feet. Logan turned and saw the motionless Titan, looking down on him as if in elated triumph.

“Why doesn’t he finish me?” said Logan to himself. Without his sensors, he couldn’t determine why the Titan was doing nothing. It did not take him long however to deduce what had happened.

Logan swung the gauss rifle around to point at the chin of the Titan. The head of the Titan exploded, rocketing Steiner away just as Logan fired. The gauss shell finished off what the ejection rockets didn’t, killing the mech’s elite pilot, but Steiner was free and clear.

“Oh, no, you don’t!” snarled Logan, dropping another crosshair onto the ejection pod.

As Steiner’s parachute deployed, Logan triggered a volley from his SRM system. The inferno round detonated about 10 meters short of Steiner’s parachute, spraying the area with white hot liquid. Logan smiled and imagined the scream as Duke Ryan Steiner, the great leader of the Conspiracy, was incinerated. The parachute burned away in less than a second and his body dropped to the ground, smashing into powdery ash as it hit.

Logan slapped his radio transmit switch, hoping the device still worked. “Logan to all mechs: The Duke is dead. I repeat, Duke Ryan Steiner is dead.”

“General Messer here. Can anyone confirm that report?”

“Roger, General.” Said Doc. “Report confirmed. Logan nailed him with an inferno round.”

Blocks away, Joshua smiled. Logan had transmitted his message across an open frequency. Everyone, Conspiracy or Ally, had heard the news.

Steiner’s bodyguard company, who had witnessed their leader’s brutal death, were the first to show the signs of what would soon spread across the Conspiracy forces. Demoralized, their coordinated and efficient attacks began to falter. That momentary break was all that Doc and Juan needed to rally the remaining Rangers and drive off their enemies.

“Doc to General Messer reporting in. This area is secure.”

“Go ahead, Doc. What happened?”

“We encountered a company of the 1st Conspiracy. We’re in bad shape. Logan, Cowboy, Rohan, and Grayson are down. Logan’s alive. The rest are status unknown.”

“Withdraw to the dropships. I’m sending a company of Swords to cover your area.”

Georgia Central
1 September 3055. 0825 Hours

Word quickly spread through the 1st Conspiracy that Steiner was dead. Without their leader, it quickly became a situation of every man for himself. Convinced they would be defeated and then tried as traitors, the former FedCom soldiers that made up the bulk of the Conspiracy army fled their positions en masse. Mercenary units, never famous for their loyalty, did likewise. The Conspiracy lines soon collapsed under a furious attack by the Genyosha and Victor’s Lyran Guard. Rather than face further harm to their own capital city, the Highlanders entered the fray, but not on the side of the Conspiracy. They had been waiting outside the city limits and now prevented any Conspiracy forces from escaping into the wild. Trapped, the remaining Conspirators surrendered.

With their enemies in retreat, the Alliance forces gained a needed break to rest and rearm, even if only for a few hours. Joshua, however, had no such break. Juan had joined up with the Swords and had told Joshua that Lisa and Gwen were headed for O’Malley’s manor. Joshua then ordered his mech reloaded.

“This is unwise.” Said Mechlanthon. “If you open fire on a Highlander unit, even if it is O’Malley, you could bring them into the fray against us.”

"We've seen a handful of Highlander mechs among the Conspiracy forces. Not all of them chose to obey the order to stand down." interjected Daisaku.

“Regardless, that monster has my son!” said Joshua forcefully. “And my wife and best friend are heading right towards him. I will not stand idly by while the both of them rush headlong into danger.”

“General…”

“You don’t have a child of your own, Mechlanthon. I don’t expect you to understand.”

Joshua drew his sword to inspect it. Mechlanthon realized that it was a new blade.

“That is new. When did you get that?”

“It was time.” Said Joshua. “I forged this before we departed.” The sword was exquisite. Unlike Anduril, this weapon was single-edged, its blade having the porous appearance of compressed endo-steel. The hilt was wrapped in red and black cloth, similar to the hilt of a Japanese katana. The crosspiece bore the emblem of Clan Wolverine. “This is the same design as my father’s sword.” He said. “And of the Khan’s before him, reaching all the way back to Rebecca Laidir.”

“The sword of the Wolverines. You have recreated it.”

“I have and its first test will be to bathe in the blood of Richard O’Malley.”

“Good luck, Joshua.”

---

Joshua moved Steppenwolfe out of the demolished sections of the city around the spaceport into those areas battle had not yet touched. With his high speed, Joshua watched as the Dark Rangers and his other allies slowly dropped off of his radar. As he progressed though the city, he spotted Highlander signals ahead.

The cease-fire with the Highlanders was still very tentative. Contact had not been established with Nathan to determine the conditions of his agreement with them. As Mechlanthon had highlighted, advancing further into the city might threaten the peace, but Joshua was more than willing to take the chance.

“Hopefully, they’ll not think much of me.” Said Joshua to himself. But as he feared, a small group of mechs broke off from the rest to check him out.

“They’re in for a surprise.” Said Joshua as he told his computer to target the lead mech. It registered as a Panther, a light scout mech.  Joshua cycled though the other approaching mechs, finding the other three to be two Wasps and a Hermes II medium mech.

“A scout lance, just as I suspected.” Said Joshua, somewhat annoyed. Too fast for Joshua to outrun easily, they didn’t pose much of a threat by themselves, but they could signal for reinforcements that Joshua would have trouble dealing with.

Joshua held his course, making his way towards O’Malley manor on the far side of the city. He was still a good 25 kilometers distant, and Joshua did not want to have to fight his way through all 25. The Panther turned the corner a couple of blocks ahead and drew a bead on him with its primary weapon, a PPC.

Joshua cut loose with his lasers, saving his autocannon shells for meaner opponents, before the Panther could fire. Both lasers sheared though the mech’s right arm, cutting off the PPC and leaving the light Panther virtually weaponless. It pulled back away, realizing it has bitten off more than it could chew. Joshua let it go, but the real damage had been done. Two more mechs broke off from the main group of Highlanders and made their way towards Joshua. Joshua knew they would be a bit tougher.

“Time to put you though your paces.” Said Joshua to his mech. He pushed the throttle forward and the mech moved up to its maximum speed of 86 kph. At that speed, Joshua could outrun most any mech that outgunned him. Fortunately for him, the enemy attack force could not keep up, but by now, Steppenwolfe had gained its own reputation to match that of either of the Galileo’s. That meant the O’Malleys would know he was coming.

“Captain O’Malley, we have identified the enemy mech as a Cauldron Born. It bears Star Swords markings.” said the Panther pilot, limping back to the main Highlander force.

“It is him. Let him pass. I’ll deal with him.” Came Richard’s voice in response.

Chapter Thirty - Guillotine

Star Sword Command Center
New Belfast
Tamar March, Federated Commonwealth
27 June 3055

"Leftenant General Daisaku Hayakusora reporting with 2nd Regiment as ordered, sir." said Daisaku. Joshua nodded his acknowledgment and Daisaku immediately went to a more relaxed pose. Behind him, his staff officers did the same, including Kou Fairchild, whom Joshua had not seen in some time.

"The General’s aged. Most of us still look like recent NAIS grads, but Joshua's different." thought Kou to himself. "First the trouble with Lisa and now the loss of his son have taken their toll."

"We're almost to full launch status in two days time. I am impressed, gentlemen. I'm surprised the garrison transition with the Home Guard was so smooth."

“Well, this is not the first time we’ve had to leave New Belfast in the capable hands of others.” Said Mike Koren.

“True.” Joshua turned back to Daisaku. “What’s your status?”

“Fully operational.” Replied Daisaku. “Of course, you requested only our mech forces to accompany you, so we are down a battalion of support.”

“James Sebastian’s role as leader of the New Belfast militia is largely ceremonial, as you well know. The support battalions of our two regiments will bolster militia defenses on both worlds on the off chance the Falcons get ambitious while we’re gone.”

“The workout will do them all some good. So what are we expecting on Northwind when we arrive?”

“Well, Daisaku, I’m not privy to every last detail of Victor’s Operation: Guillotine, but I’ll tell you what I know. Victor is sending operatives to undermine the relationship between the Highlanders and the Conspiracy. I have sent Lisa and Gwen with them to do the same with our own Juan Miranda and the old 4th Battalion. In the best of all possible worlds, that leaves us fighting only the 1st Conspiracy and a few assorted rogue mercenary units with four top of the line regiments: the 10th Lyran Guard, the 1st Genyosha, and our 1st and 2nd Star Swords.”

“Two to one odds against. And if Victor’s operations fail?”

“Then we face all four Highlander regiments and a single battalion of Clan Omnimech equipped former Star Swords in addition.”

“I like those odds much less.”

“So do I.”

“Then let us hope Lisa and her compatriots are successful.” Daisaku paused. “In the all their missions.”

Joshua nodded. “Yeah, I sent them there for that too.”

Dropship Queen Victoria, Nadir Point
Fort Loudon
Tamar March, Federated Commonwealth
9 July 3055

"Welcome aboard," welcomed the dropship captain. "We will be departing for La Grave within 24 hours. I hope your journey aboard our vessel will be pleasant."

"Of course." said Gwen Laidir, floating past the man to embark on the dropship. Lisa stood behind her and smiled pleasantly to the captain, but said nothing. Without further ado, the captain moved on the next boarder with the same message.

"You know, you really could try to play the part a little better." whispered Gwen as the pair headed for their stateroom.

“You’re enjoying this a little too much I think. You could have made us sisters or something. We even look a bit alike. But no, you made us an alternative lifestyle couple?”

Gwen laughed heartily. “Can you see the look on Joshua’s face when he finds out? You know damn well his imagination is going to go wild with that one.”

“You’re a pervert.” Said Lisa as they entered their stateroom. “You’re only going to encourage those who know what this means.” She tapped the ring on her nose.

“If any aboard are well-traveled enough to know what that is, they would know better. The renkesu are not whores, whatever twisted version of their lifestyle might have been impressed upon you by those who know nothing of the truth. They are mistresses and concubines, consorts to wealthy men and women throughout Combine space. People of influence and power. People known for retaliating when their companions are ill-treated.” Gwen smiled and softened. “You are not a true renkesu, Lisa, regardless of Napineo’s delusions. I doubt you have received the years of training in the arts of pleasure that the real ones do.”

“Not quite. Just an attempt by Napineo to pretend he could claim all the privileges of a Kurita lord. Seems strange that he would do so on a world that so hates the Draconis Combine and House Kurita.”

“My memories of his file were those of a man rather disliked by most of the people of his world. Politics makes strange bedfellows. Duke Ryan needed somebody to legitimize his occupation of Northwind. Napineo fit the bill. That’s the only reason he ascended to the position he did.”

“Duke Ryan’s presence on Northwind isn’t exactly an occupation.”

“Isn’t it? Do the Clan Elders truly have control of their world or does Duke Ryan? I’m sure that’s the angle Bairn is going to use to subvert them.”

“Perhaps. And what angle are we to use to subvert Juan Miranda?”

“I do not know my predecessor. You do. What do you think?”

“There are a couple of angles we could use….” Lisa suddenly staggered and nearly fell over.

“Lisa!” said Gwen in surprise. “Are you…”

“I’m fine. All these travels in zero-G with jump transit has been playing hell with my system. I’ve been getting these bouts of vertigo and dizziness. I’ll be glad when we’re back in a gravity well again.” She held her stomach as if trying to soothe nausea.

“Next leg of the journey, I pick the cover story.” Said Lisa, trying to change the subject. “I’m still not comfortable with this little game of being your lover.”

Gwen shrugged. “Fair enough.”

Lisa looked down at her boarding pass. It was labeled with the name "Julie Valdez."

“I’m picking the names next time too. Why Julie?" asked Lisa. "For that matter, it was Jennifer last trip. Then it was Janice. I sense a trend."

"Same first letter as 'Justice,' my dear."

“Oh.”

“That is why you’re wearing the ring again. Napineo’s delusion or no, it’s part of that character.”

Lisa nodded. “Yes. And Justice is a part of me, for better or worse.”

Jumpship Refueling Station
Garrison
Donegal March, Federated Commonwealth
1 August 3055

"I hate this planet.” Said Daisaku bitterly. “I remember these stars."

"We committed our most precious blood to them not so long ago." answered Joshua. "Come, we need not dwell on that. Nothing we can do can bring them back."

"It just seems to me that our pasts continue to haunt us.” mused Daisaku grimly.

Joshua paused, sensing his friend’s desire to reminisce and reflect. “Maybe. I’ve spent the better part of the last three years wrestling with mine certainly. But perhaps that’s our fate, to be anchored and held back by the legacy of what came before.”

“This isn’t our fight.” Said Daisaku, coming to the point. “We shed our blood on Garrison below against our true enemies. But Dieron, Oliver, the battle we’re traveling to now, we’re being drawn away from that legacy, Joshua. I understand your loyalty to Prince Victor, your friendship with him. But his battles are not ours.”

“You do us a service by keeping us focused on what it means to be Wolverine, but you misunderstand my intentions, Daisaku.” Explained Joshua. “This isn’t just about personal loyalty to a friend who happens to rule the greatest nation the Inner Sphere has seen since the Star League. It was the dream of our founders not just to stand against the other Clans, but also to inspire the Inner Sphere to reform what was lost. I believe Victor shares that dream. The Federated Commonwealth, the coming together of the realms of Steiner and Davion, is a part of that. So too is this Star Alliance with House Kurita. And this dream is threatened not just by the Clans, but also by hidebound traditionalists and bigots like Duke Ryan.”

“These things are happening in spite of our participation, not because of it.” Retorted Daisaku.

“Perhaps it is better that way. The other Clans also wish to recreate the Star League, but one on their terms. At least this way, the dream comes from the people of the Inner Sphere themselves, and is not imposed from outside.”

“Perhaps. But this is more than simply an academic exercise of one interested in history and its judgments. It’s also the concern of a senior officer who commands two battalions of BattleMechs and their mechwarriors. If Agent Bairn’s gambit fails, this battle will make Garrison look like a picnic. If our part in this dream, as you so poetically put it, ends on Northwind, what then?”

“We must entrust it to those of like mind, like Prince Victor.” Said Joshua. “You worry too much.” Joshua gave Daisaku a friendly pat on the back.

"Well, here comes company." said Daisaku switching to a lighter subject as he glanced ahead. Outside the station's tavern were some familiar faces.

"Good to see you again, Logan." said Joshua. "I just wish it was under better circumstances."

"Come on, General, warriors like us should find battle to be the best time for us to meet......just as long as we're on the same side."

"Hello, Doc. How went your mission in the Combine?" asked Daisaku.

"Did you see my report?" said the Dark Ranger tech.

Joshua nodded. "You uncovered some sort of alliance between the Jaguars and the Falcons?

“Uncovered and disrupted, hopefully.” said Rohan. "The last thing we need is for the Clans to start giving us trouble again."

“They will not be idle long, of that I’m sure. With Dal Pryde dead, New Belfast has seen a year of peace.” Said Joshua.

“They’re rebuilding their army with frightening new machines.” Said Doc. “Same as the ones we encountered on Alyina. Most of them are now ready for full production.”

“Then that only increases the urgency for us to do this job right, doesn’t it?” said Joshua. “We don’t want to be fighting a two-front war."

"How is your wife?" asked Logan.

"On her way ahead of us, with Kommandant Laidir."

“To rescue your son?” asked Logan. “We heard O’Malley abducted him.”

“He did, but Lisa will also help Agent Bairn keep the Highlanders out of this fight.”

“So Vicky isn’t sending us into a death trap then?”

“No, I think the Prince is doing everything in his power to ensure our battle against the rebels is as much in our favor as possible.”

“Well, let us hope.” Said Logan. “Hope for your son’s return and for the end of this accursed rebellion.”

Georgia
Northwind
Conspiracy Occupation Zone, Draconis March
13 August 3055

Lisa felt a shudder run through her as she submitted her belongings to the Security men at the airport. The last time she had been here, she had come to this world to escape the demons that haunted her. Now, Lisa feared some of them might still be on the jungle world of Northwind and among its denizens.

"All clear, Justine Patricks. Just in from off-world, I see. Welcome to Northwind." said the security guard.

Lisa nodded and moved on through. She had separated from Gwen at their last stop, but had arranged to meet her in three days, after both had hopefully made contact with their respective allies.

Outside the airport terminal, she hailed a cab. There was a thunderstorm on, which only dampened Lisa spirits more. She hated this place. It represented so much to her that she wanted to forget. But here she was, searching the one thing in her life that meant more than words could say.

“Where to, lass?” asked the cabbie.

“Exiletown.”

The cabbie gave her an unusual look. Lisa frowned. “No questions.” She said sharply, handing forward a wad of C-bills.

“Sure thing, lass.”

To that, the cabbie turned around and began to drive. The cab took her to her old haunts, the decrepit old city from which the rebellion hailed and back to Kyle's bar. To her surprise it was open. She paid the cabbie, who seemed more than happy to get out of the neighborhood. She took in a deep breath and walked inside.

It was as dark and dismal as she remembered it. The man behind the bar was not someone she'd seen before, but she approached him none the less.

“You have a problem with bums around here?” asked Lisa.

“One in particular.” Said the bartender. “He’s in the back.”

Lisa followed where the bartender motioned with a nod. She knew the way. In many ways, this all felt the same.

“…need to move fast on this, since the Prince…” said Nathan as Lisa walked in the door. He looked up from papers with a look of pleasant surprise.

“You’re not even upset that I just barged in here.” Said Lisa. The men at the table in front of Nathan turned to face her. Lisa did not recognize most of them, although she smiled at seeing Kyle among them.

“John was told to expect you and he’d have not let anyone come through that door unless he was with us.” said a voice from the wall beside the door, behind Lisa. Lisa turned to see Gwen.

“Am I the last to arrive?”

“You are, but don’t let that bother you. Friends, this is Justice, who once worked with us in the previous operation. She is, as is Agent Laidir, here at my request.”

Lisa twitched at hearing her referred to by the name “Justice.” It had not bothered her in all the planning for this trip and in all the time with Gwen aboard ship, but now the reality of where she was and what she was doing was coming home for her. She took a seat as Nathan resumed his briefing.

“As I was saying, we don’t have a whole lot of time to initiate our plans. I’ve already initiated some contacts among those sympathetic to our cause in the planetary leadership here. I hope those to bear fruit very quickly. With luck, I’ll be in meetings with the Clan Elders by next week.”

“If direct negotiations fail, then what?” asked one of the strangers.

“That’s where you come in. We need to ratchet up the tension between the Highlanders and the Conspiracy loyalists, things you have already initiated with flyers, interweb postings on message boards and blogs, and the rest. If the negotiations fall apart, we need a few very public incidents to bring the Highlanders back to the table.”

“Fights?”

“Riots even. I’d love to see a Conspiracy loyal mech unit open fire on Northwind natives.”

Kyle shook his head in disgust. “Those are innocent people you are proposing we manipulate, people who might be killed.”

“The bloodshed is regrettable, but if the Clan Elders will not listen, then the blood of their people must make them.” Said Nathan. “If there is nothing else, let us adjourn. We know our jobs. Let’s get to it. Victor will be here within a month.”

The meeting began to disperse, leaving only Kyle, Nathan, and the two women. “Agent Laidir has filled me in on your own personal missions.”

“I need to know where to find Juan Miranda.” Said Lisa.

“And O’Malley?”

“What did Gwen tell you?” asked Lisa sternly.

“Simply that O'Malley has your son. Abducted him a couple of months ago. Justice, you know I'd do anything for you." said Nathan. "But I doubt I could convince the others to go against O’Malley. They’d not see any profit in it.”

“What do you mean?”

“As the Conspiracy weakens, O’Malley is increasingly marginalized. His position as director of ConsInt is largely irrelevant now. Before, we might have gone for him directly and let him use his thugs to do what I just proposed to Duggan, stir up trouble against the populace. But our focus now needs to be on Duke Ryan’s rogue mercenaries and loyalists. ConsInt is virtually dead. How else do you think we were given free rein enough to meet in our old headquarters? They aren’t even bothering anymore.”

“Has O’Malley given up then?”

“It would seem so. Perhaps that’s why he went after your son. A bargaining chip for his life.”

“Perhaps, but unlikely. This is the same man who sprung his madman brother from prison for no other reason than their blood ties.” Interjected Gwen. “Daniel’s no hostage. He’s been taken to become what Richard wants him to be, a scion of the house.”

“Then you likely haven’t much time.” Said Nathan. “If O’Malley doesn’t plan to bargain with Daniel, he knows he’ll find no refuge here on Northwind once this world is in Federated Suns hands again.”

“He’ll flee off-world.” Said Gwen.

“No, he won’t.” said Lisa. “He might ship his whole family to the far reaches of space, but he’ll stay. He’ll stay for me and for Joshua. O’Malley still has his brother to avenge and he’ll not pass up the opportunity that the Star Swords coming here will provide.”

“We still need to subvert the Swords 4th Battalion and I can’t do that without you, Lisa.” Said Gwen.

“I know,” she answered. “As Nathan said in his briefing, we haven’t a lot of time. Can you get us into the Swords garrison?”

Nathan nodded. “Easily done. Can Miranda be trusted to turn on Duke Ryan?"

"I think so. He's Conspiracy not out of love for O'Malley, who was an old comrade, or of Duke Steiner. Like so many, he simply hated House Kurita enough to betray his friends and lover. A lover killed on Oliver.”

“And that’s your leverage?” asked Kyle.

“Yes.” Said Lisa. “Among other things. Juan’s principled enough that the abduction of my son will not sit well with him either.”

"Risky." Said Kyle.

“These are not educated guesses based on a photo and a DMI file. I know Juan. Fought with him, bled with him. He’ll listen to me.”

“Then we’d best get started. But Justice, there’s one more thing. I understand your need to find your son, but things aren’t as they were before. Kyle and I may still lead, but this is not the well-meaning and dedicated rabble we once commanded here. Duggan is Loki, a Lyran assassin with no qualms about killing anyone or anything that threatens his mission. And he’ll not hesitate if you screw things up for the rest of us.”

“You should have more faith in me, Nathan.”

Star Sword, 4th Battalion Temporary Headquarters, Georgia
Northwind
Conspiracy Occupation Zone, Federated Commonwealth
14 August 3055

Juan came in the door without bothering with the lights. His temporary office here on Northwind might be new to him, but it was small and easily navigated even in the darkness. A late night e-mail from O’Malley had brought him out.

“Alright, Richard, you call me out here at 2300 and you’re late.” He grumbled aloud as he sat down.

“Or not coming.” Said a woman’s voice in the dark.

Fast as lightning, Juan yanked a pistol from the hidden holster under the desk. He aimed the weapon towards the door where the voice had come and turned on the lights.

“Not quite fast enough. If I’d wanted you dead, you would be.” Said Lisa.

“Nothing stopping me.” He squeezed the trigger. There was a click and nothing more.

“Even if I didn’t know where you kept your gun,” Said Lisa, holding up the magazine from his pistol. “I doubt she’d let you get away with that. And I’d keep your hands away from that alarm switch also.”

Juan ventured a slow glance over his shoulder out the window. “Very good, Lisa. A sniper perched directly outside my window.”

“Not just any sniper. Your successor.”

“And that is?”

“Another Wolverine exile, my husband’s former lover. Gwen Laidir.”

“The ISF operative?”

“The same.”

“So why are you here?”

“To deliver a message.”

“Oh?”

“We both know why you’re here, Juan. Your history with DMI, what happened to your family…”

“You’ve read a file. You know nothing about what it means.”

“Don’t give me that bullshit. I buried a fiance, remember? Your subordinate for a time. Hell, it was under your command that he died. If I followed your logic, Juan, perhaps I should have Gwen shoot you after all. It was your fault that Daniel O’Brian died.”

“You know better. He was Loki, black ops. Or didn’t you know that about him? I doubt he told you. He died as he lived, serving his nation. He chose that life. My family was never given a choice.”

Lisa paused. “And I’m sure they’d be so proud of your new allies. So proud that your people murdered Melissa Steiner and how many dozens of others. Not people from the Combine, not Kurita, not the people who murdered your family. No, Lyran citizens every one. What choice were they given, Juan?”

Juan was clearly unsettled by where this was going. Lisa knew she’s found a point of vulnerability. “And the Archon herself?” She continued. “She was everyone’s sweetheart, beloved by billions. There’s always been a certain sanctity to Archon Melissa. A sanctity your people violated by murdering her. What was her crime, Juan? What policy? What directive did she die for?”

Juan looked down at his desk. “It’s not something I’m proud of.”

“That had best be an understatement.” Said Lisa haughtily. “But we’re not done. I’ve only begun to list the notable deeds of your confederates. There’s plenty more. Take O’Malley for instance. We already know what manner of person he is.”

“That’s old news…”

Lisa slammed her fist down on his desk and drew in close. “Old news? He stood by and watched as his brother ravaged me time after time and did nothing. You do know that my son was born of that time, that little Daniel is Robert’s son. Well, guess what? Richard knows too and guess who has him? Guess who took him from New Belfast?”

“Excuse me?”

“Haven’t you wondered where you Director of Intelligence has been these past few months? Or is your whole operation in such pieces that you didn’t even know he was gone?” snarled Lisa, trying to keep her temper in check. “He came to New Belfast and kidnapped my son! What was his crime to be taken from Joshua and me? Your associates are monsters, Juan. Face it.”

Lisa leaned back to let Juan absorb what she had been saying.

“It wasn’t meant to be like this.” Said Juan. “We came to fight House Kurita, not assassinate people, not abduct children. This news you bring troubles me.”

“You are a poorer judge of character than we ever guessed if you didn’t think your allies were the sort of people who would resort to this. Duke Ryan doesn’t care about what happened to your family, but he’s more than willing to exploit it to trick you into helping his ultimately futile grab for power. O’Malley, likewise. This was always about revenge for his brother, not about some loftier cause. You’ve been played the fool. You betrayed us for nothing.”

“Maybe so, but what choice do I have now?” said Juan. “The die has been cast. Yeah, maybe my allies weren’t what I had hoped they’d be. But what remains for me on the other side? A court martial? A firing squad? Are you here to offer me a pardon in exchange for my switching back? Do you bring me Kelly’s forgiveness for abandoning her?”

“A pardon I can offer.” Said Lisa, letting out her breath. “That was the message I was to bring. Joshua will extend his protection to you; You will not face court martial, merely a reduction in rank and pay. All you have to do is stand down 4th Battalion when the time comes.”

Juan chuckled. “Are you serious? Never in a million years did I think that you’d offer such a thing.”

“It’s hardly an offer you can refuse. You and I both know that this world will not stand when Prince Victor comes. If you say no, a court martial and firing squad is all you have to look forward to, assuming you even survive the battle.”

“I suppose I shouldn’t hope you’d bring a message from Kelly also.”

“That I cannot do.” Lisa paused. “Kelly Perrens was killed in action on Oliver, Juan, fighting Duke Ryan’s First Conspiracy regiment. I’m sorry.”

Juan closed his eyes, trying to contain the pain of that news. “Obviously, she and I didn't exactly agree on my doing all this. I wanted there to be a future for us. But I was certain that a military alliance with the Combine would have been disastrous to the Commonwealth. I believed it so passionately that I felt I had no choice. I had to leave. I never really got the chance to fully explain to her why I did what I did or to find out how she felt. I’d always hoped that after this sorry affair was over, I chance upon her, find out if she could forgive me and maybe even, I hoped, come to love me again.” Juan slumped forward, cradling his head in his hands.

“I should have known better.” He mused after a few seconds. "People in my profession rarely have the opportunity to find love. We don't have serious relationships normally; we don't get married. That’s the sort of thing normal people do. Not us spies.” He let out his breath, still fighting to maintain composure. “How did she die?”

"I wasn't on Oliver, so I don't know first hand. I did read the debriefs. She was with First Battalion in the Erics Canyon. Steiner had the dam destroyed. Most of First Battalion survived. Kelly did not.”

Juan said nothing for several minutes. Lisa leaned forward and placed a note card on the desk in front of him. “You have a decision to make, Kommandant. When you’ve made it, contact me.”

With that, Lisa walked out the door.

O’Malley Manor, Georgia
Northwind
Conspiracy Occupation Zone, Federated Commonwealth
14 August 3055

“Look, gentlemen, you have to face reality…” said Nathan.

“And what of our cities? Our people?” asked Duke Stuart. “You want us to stand down, stand by, while Prince Victor marches an army in here to take on Duke Ryan.”

“That’s unavoidable and you know it.” Retorted Nathan. “Say you don’t stand down. Will you burn your own cities to stop him? Because I can assure you, Duke Ryan is not going to play fair. Already, he has moved his mercenaries and his allies into Georgia. The last stand will be here and the city will burn, regardless of what you do. The question before you is whether there will be Highlanders left once the Prince is done? That choice is up to you.”

“We should evacuate the city then. Attempt to get as many people out as we can.” Said Baron Ian O’Malley.

“Duke Ryan will try to stop us. If we move to evacuate the civilians, he will retaliate.” Snarled Colonel Cochraine. “And we’ll still have blood in the streets.”

“Duke Ryan may still hold the city hostage.” Said Baron Ian.

“He will if he can, your grace.” Said Nathan. “His back is against the wall. Only Northwind remains in Conspiracy hands and it too soon will fall. That’s no longer in question and we all know it. I’m giving you a chance, gentlemen. Prince Victor, as per the Arc Royal Agreement, to overlook your role in this. But that means you cannot oppose his landing. If you do, the Highlanders are finished. All your traditions, all your legacy gone. Duke Ryan isn’t worth it. You have a decision to make. I leave you to it.”

With that, Nathan stood up from the sofa. Baron Ian stood up. “I will have my steward show you out. You came in good faith and with a promise of safe conduct. You will not be molested by anyone while under my protection.”

“Thank, your grace.” He nodded to the others. “Gentlemen, I take my leave.”

Baron Ian followed him to the door. His chamberlain walked out with him to the waiting car.

“Are you going to arrest him?” asked the Baron into the darkness behind him.

“You gave him a promise of safe conduct. I would besmirch your good word, Father, by taking him. Besides,” said Richard, stepping out of the shadows. “It would be moot anyway. He’s right you know. The Conspiracy is finished, at least this part of it.”

“What are you talking about?”

“There’s more going on here than meets the eye. And then there’s Daniel.”

“Robert’s son, my grandson. He may be an O’Malley by blood, but his adoptive parents will not let that stop them. They will come for him.”

“I’m counting on it.” Said Richard. “I am certain the Star Swords will be among whatever force Prince Victor sends at us.” Richard’s look became grave. “Father, I’m dead no matter what. I hope to take Robert’s killers with me, but you must survive, for Daniel’s sake, for Celine, for the family name. I’ve arranged transport off-world. When the time comes, you need to leave.”

“Leave Northwind?”

“Our enemies will not stop with my death alone. If you stand in their way, they will destroy you also. Messer and his bitch will kill us all, just like they did Robert.”

“Your brother deserved what he got and we both know it.”

“He was my brother and your son!” snarled Richard. “Your sons will be dead within weeks, Father. That toddler upstairs is all that remains to carry on the family name. He must survive. It’s up to you now.”

Kyle’s Bar, Georgia
Northwind
Conspiracy Occupation Zone, Federated Commonwealth
15 August 3055

Lisa rubbed her head as she leaned back from the toilet. Her nausea symptoms had been continuing, despite the fact that she was no longer in space.

A rap came at the stall door. “Lisa, are you okay?”

“I will be, Gwen.” Lisa picked herself up and flushed her vomit away. “Just feeling a little under the weather.”

“You have a phone call. I think it’s Kommandant Miranda.”

“I’m coming.” Lisa opened the stall door and stepped out. She followed Gwen out of the rest room to the vid phone. She picked up the receiver, noting there was no video image of the person on the other side.

“This is MacLeod.” She said.

“If I stand down the Swords, I get amnesty. I go back to New Belfast and we forget this thing happened?”

“That’s the idea. Your punishment will be a reduction in rank and pay, nothing more.”

“And my men? The ones that came with me?”

“The same.”

“And those who signed on to replace the ones who didn’t come? What of them?”

“We’ll take them to New Belfast with us. They can sign on with the Swords or go their own way.”

“Good. Then it’s done. The Swords will not oppose Prince Victor’s attack.”

“Thank you, Juan.”

“And I will do one better.”

“Excuse me?”

“I’ll find your son.” With that, there was a click as Juan hung up.

“Good news?” asked Gwen.

Lisa stepped back and grabbed her stomach again. “Yes,” she whistled out as she fought off the nausea again.

“You don’t look well.”

“I’m fine. Just some stomach trouble. Probably stress.”

“Lisa, stop lying to yourself.” Said Gwen. “This isn’t stress. It obviously isn’t zero-gee sickness. Admit it. You’re pregnant. Again.”

ConsInt Headquarters, Georgia
Northwind
Conspiracy Occupation Zone, Federated Commonwealth
15 August 3055

Juan put down the phone transceiver and then turned to the computer on the desk before him. "Punch up the personnel and security data on Baron O'Malley's estate."

"This data is restricted. Input identification and access codes." responded the machine.

"Miranda, Juan. Clearance Delta Alpha. Access code: 32007."

"Accessing data." After a few seconds, the computer returned. "Data not available. Files have been erased."

"Damn. Should have known it wouldn’t be that easy. O'Malley's removed all records of his family from ConsInt Headquarters." Juan said to himself.

Juan stood up. "I wonder how far back he's covered his tracks. The old DMI archives will contain older data on the estate security measures and there should be a copy of those in the archives...I wonder if he's tampered with those."

Juan quickly logged off of the computer and turned it off. He grabbed up his notebook and headed out the door for the archive room, located down in the sub-basements, not far from the dungeon.

On his way down the stairs to the musty basement area, he ran into someone he'd rather not have seen: Richard O'Malley. O'Malley was surprised to see Juan and fear crossed his eyes for a brief second. He quickly tucked a dossier under his arm.

“Well, this is a surprise, although I had heard you were on Northwind. What brings you to ConsInt Headquarters, Juan?”

“Trying to get some information. See if we know anything about what Prince Victor might throw at us.” Lied Juan. “If I’m going into battle, it might help if I knew against who.”

“Unfortunately, our operations have become a bit more limited. Most have given up already.”

“Have you?”

“There’s more going on than you know, Juan. The Conspiracy is finished. Your best bet is to get your people off-world while there’s still time.”

“I can’t believe I’m hearing this from you. I thought you’d go down with the ship.”

“I will. Nothing can stop that now. Either your former boss will kill me or they will.”

“They?”

“That’s a question you’re better off not knowing the answer to.”

O'Malley Manor, Georgia
Northwind
Conspiracy Occupation Zone, Federated Commonwealth
21 August 3055

"They're up to something." whispered Gwen to Lisa. "Look, most of the battalion is on the grounds."

“This was not in Juan’s information.” Said Lisa, dropping back down behind the automobile they’d parked across from the front gate. “Something has changed.”

“They’ve gotten paranoid.” Said Gwen. “They know you’re coming.”

“Juan wouldn’t have.”

“I wasn’t suggesting that.” Said Gwen. “I meant in general. The Star Swords are coming for Daniel and Baron Ian has rallied his entire battalion of Highlanders to protect him.”

“But Nathan’s gotten word the Highlanders will stand down.”

“This is personal, between you, Joshua, and the O’Malleys. You think that agreement is going to stop Joshua or you.”

“It could unravel everything. This is what Nathan feared.”

“Then we’d best not fail tonight.”

Lisa nodded. She slid back up to look around again. "I can't see the manor house clearly from here. There are too many Battlemechs in the way. We need to get closer."

"We get any closer and those technicians are going to see us."

"Not unless I look like one of them."

"Now, wait just a minute....." responded Gwen, but Lisa was already most of the way across the street.

Surrounding the manor grounds was a stone wall. Lisa scaled it with ease, dropping down behind a large Captivator Battlemech. Gwen dropped down beside her.

“We are in this together.” Reminded Gwen.

“I knew you’d follow.”

“Now I know why he married you.” Said Gwen with a smile. “You’re even more fearless than me.”

Lisa raised her hand to silence Gwen. A technician was moving towards the Captivator.

Gwen ducked behind the leg of the mech and jumped the tech as he walked around. A quick smack with the butt of her SMG and the tech was dreaming. Lisa stripped him down to his underwear and tossed on the uniform over her commando uniform.

"That has to be hot." said Gwen.

“No time to strip.”

“You look ridiculous. Anyone inspects you closely, they’ll know.” Said Gwen, taking something from Lisa's belt.

"What's that?"

"Master activation key. Let's these techs activate these mechs to move them around without knowing each and every pilot's personal access code."

"ISF training?"

"Did you honestly think they wouldn't teach us how to steal mechs?"

"Is that what you have in mind?”

“You get Daniel and the alarm will go up. I’d rather try to escape in one of these,” she slapped the leg of the Captivator for effect, “than that sedan we brought.”

“Caps are slow, if our intelligence is to be believed.”

“I didn’t say this one in particular.” Gwen pointed towards another mech. "That Assassin ought to do nicely."

"Good. Now let’s get moving." Gwen dashed away, indirectly heading for the Assassin.

Lisa headed inside the manor house, casually walking past technicians and mechwarriors as they lounged around the grounds. A couple glanced at her funny when she walked inside, but her stance of "I'm supposed to do this" kept them from stopping her.

The O'Malley manor was impressive, not quite as nice as her father's castle as home, but almost as large. Lost, she had no idea where to begin, or how long she would have before Gwen was found or that unconscious tech was discovered.

Then she heard a woman's voice, speaking as if to a small child. She homed in on it and followed it down a hallway to the west wing of the house. Ahead of her in the corridor was a woman about 10 years older than herself, probably Celine, Richard's sister.

With her was Daniel. Seeing her son ripped at Lisa's heart. She took a step forward to move into the room.

Celine suddenly turned. "You're not allowed within the house." snapped Celine. "Get back outside!" she ordered. Lisa hesitated for barely a second, but it was long enough for Daniel to see her.

"Mommy?"

In a flash, Lisa stormed into the room and body checked Celine into the wall. Celine slammed against the wall and cried out for help.

“Gwen!” barked Lisa into her communicator. “I’m going to need that ride out of here now.”

“On my way.” Came the reply. Lisa could hear the sound a BattleMech powering up in the background.

Lisa grabbed Daniel and headed for the door. Outside, she could hear the commotion caused by Gwen’s mech power-up. The guards, thankfully, were not looking at what was going on inside the house.

As she reached the front foyer, she stopped. Directly in her path was Richard O’Malley. He turned and saw her and his eyes grew wide.

He reached for his weapon, but Lisa was faster. She fired her laser, a crimson beam of light slicing through the woodwork at shoulder level and striking Richard in the shoulder. He lurched back before the laser cut any deeper.

Lisa dashed for the door, but Richard was on his feet again. He dove for her legs and brought her down. Daniel landed with a thump on the hardwood and let out a wail of fear and pain.

“You’ll not take him!” snarled Richard, picking himself up and heading for the toddler.

“He is not yours!” retorted Lisa, grabbing his ankle.

Richard let out a fierce kick into Lisa’s face, shaking her off. He snatched up Daniel just the front door of the house exploded inward from the impact of a BattleMech fist. It enclosed around Lisa and picked her up off the floor.

"No!" screamed Lisa in desperation as she watched Richard carry Daniel away from the mech and out of danger. She slumped in the mech’s hand as Gwen pulled the mech’s arm back.

“I’m sorry, Lisa. But we’ve got other things to worry about. Hang on.” Said Gwen. Behind her, three of the Highlander's mechs were now powering up. She triggered the Assassin's jump jets. The 40 ton mech rocketed into the air, clearing the stone wall and landing on the road that led to the city. She hit the ground running and was out of sight before their pursuit left the grounds.

Celine came down the steps rubbing her head. She took Daniel from Richard’s arms. “Are you hurt?”

“No,” he said flatly. “But we must accelerate our plans. The Star Swords will be here soon.”

Rebel Hideout, Georgia
Northwind
Conspiracy Occupation Zone, Federated Commonwealth
22 August 3055

Gwen fumed silently as she looked over the makeshift model of the Georgia communications relay. Nathan stood across from her.

“How is she?”

“She’ll live. You know her strength.”

“To be that close. To have him in hand and then lose him.” Nathan shook his head.

“They’ll be another time. Lisa knows this. Right now, we need to ensure that things are in place for Victor’s arrival.”

“This will be the key. When we give the signal, the Northwind authorities will shut down the comm relay. That will blind and deafen the Conspiracy forces temporarily and should allow Victor’s attack force to land.”

“It will also tip off the Conspiracy forces that the Highlanders have betrayed them.”

“They’ll be too busy with Victor’s attack force to retaliate.”

“And if the Highlanders don’t follow through?”

“That’s where I come in.” said Duggan as he walked inside. “I’ll teams in place to disable the relays if they’re not shut down by the Highlanders.”

“Victor’s ships are inbound as we speak, disguised as cargo transports. He’ll be in orbit in three days.” He paused. “Everyone knows their jobs. At this point, we separate and go to ground. Richard is probably going to be looking for us.” With that comment, Duggan bored a baleful stare at Gwen, but she ignored him. She simply nodded to Nathan.

“Our work is done.” Said Gwen. “Now it’s the Prince’s turn.”

Chapter Twenty-Nine - The Reforging

Star Swords Medical Center
New Belfast
Tamar March, Federated Commonwealth
23 June 3055

“Any luck?” asked Lisa as Dr. Jefferson finished putting the cast on her arm. Several hours had passed since her encounter with O’Malley and his goons. Joshua had just entered the infirmary after spending his time coordinating the search.

Joshua shook his head, the sad look on his face telling more than his gesture. “He can’t get off the planet. I’ve sealed every spaceport until he’s found.”

“That can’t be making you very popular with the civilian population.” said Jefferson, a tone of warning in his voice.

“What does that matter?” snarled Lisa. “My son is gone. I don’t know where he is and I’m scared to death.”

“We both are.” Said Joshua, taking Lisa in hand. “We’ll find him. O’Malley won’t hurt him, of that I’m convinced.”

“No, he was after his brother’s heir. That’s why he went to all the trouble of coming here.”

“Not to change the subject, but Kommandant Laidir is recovering nicely.” Said Jefferson.

“I’d almost forgotten about Gwen.” Said Joshua.

“She would have fought to stop him, if he hadn’t gunned her down.” Said Lisa with a feeling of gratitude.

“I know.” Said Joshua softly.

The intercom signaled and Jefferson answered it. “General, it’s for you. It’s Hauptmann Smith.”

“What is it, Ryan?”

“Reporting in. No luck finding O’Malley. If you want my guess, he’s going to hole up until we lift the launch ban.”

“You’re probably right. What do you recommend?”

“Declare martial law in MacLeod City and have us search the whole damn city.”

“It’s a city of 3 million people. That would take forever. I can’t justify that level of action. Not even for this.”

“I understand. There’s another option.”

“What did you have in mind?”

“There’s only two spaceports on planet. Dublin and here. Keep Dublin closed and open MacLeod City. We can screen anyone trying to leave the planet via one spaceport.”

“Good idea. Before you open the spaceport though, I want every dropship on that tarmac swept. If their captains complain, shoot them.”

“Understood. Smith out.” Said Ryan quickly. Joshua wondered for a moment if he’d been serious about the “shoot them” part, and if Ryan had taken him so.

Star Swords Command Center
New Belfast
Tamar March, Federated Commonwealth
25 June 3055

Two days of searching and screening with no luck. O’Malley had covered his tracks well and Joshua and Lisa were on the verge of giving up.

The day of Daniel abduction was a day of mourning throughout the Federated Commonwealth, as the grieving nation laid Melissa Steiner to rest. With the two day delay in transmission between New Belfast and Tharkad, the funeral was just now being televised in MacLeod City.

Watching a funeral was hardly something that would have lifted Joshua’s spirits at that point. “Victor’s not there.” said Joshua with a worried tone. “What the hell were you thinking, Victor? Some glorified Clan pirate is not worth missing the funeral of your mother.”

Gwen entered Joshua’s office, her arm in a sling. “No word, but you already know that.”

“We know where he’s going.” Said Joshua.

“We do. Back home. To Northwind.”

“Then you and Lisa have two tasks now. Find my son.”

“You’re sending us both?”

“I am.”

“This arrived for you from ComStar. It’s urgent. More word from Victor.”

Joshua turned off the funeral and played the message. “Hello, Joshua.” Said Prince Victor. “I’m transmitting this from the zenith point at Donegal. I’m en-route now to Tharkad. I intend to only be there briefly to pay my respects. The rebellion known as the Conspiracy will not stand for much longer and this message is a follow up to the orders I sent you a few days ago. I wanted to fill you in further as to our plans. Aside from your four mech battalions, I plan to bring my 10th Lyran Guard and the Kurita Genyosha. With Lord Takashi dead to a bomb similar to the one that claimed my mother, their honor demanded nothing less.”

“Kurita units on-world will complicate Bairn’s plan to keep the Highlanders out of the fight.” Said Joshua aloud.

“In addition, I would like the Dark Rangers as well. They’ve been contracted and will be arriving on New Belfast shortly. I intend to have a command circuit between New Belfast and our staging area on Errai established by the second week of July. I trust you will be ready to depart by then. Hopefully, we’ll be able to pull off what I’m calling Operation: Guillotine and bring the war to and end. Victor out.”

Star Swords Command Center
New Belfast
Tamar March, Federated Commonwealth
26 June 3055

Joshua finished watching Logan's response to Victor's summons. It would take the Rangers only two weeks to pack up and get to New Belfast. He had also received word that a Star Lord class jumpship had materialized at the Nadir point of New Belfast's sun. Victor was putting all his pieces into place.

Lisa was leaning against the bookshelf beside the vidplayer. She had the same sad look she'd had for the last three days. A rapid knock came at the door. "Enter!" barked Joshua.

Gwen came in. “It’s soon time.”

Lisa nodded. “I know.” She looked at Gwen’s sling. “Boy, aren’t we a sorry lot?”

Gwen nodded, noting Lisa’s own bandages. “Indeed.”

“It’s at least a month journey to Northwind via the route we’ve set up.” Said Joshua. “Your convalescence can continue en route.”

“So, it’s come to this then. We track him back to his lair.”

“We know that’s where he’s gone. I don’t know how he got off world, but certain that he has. But Northwind is his destination, of that there can be no doubt.”

Lisa reached up to put in her renkesu ring. She had stopped wearing it a long time ago, and the piercing had healed over. But she had redone it for the mission. “So Justice must re-emerge to take back what belongs to Lisa.”

Joshua nodded. “Bring back our son.”

“This time I finish what I wanted to do before as Justice.” Said Lisa. “O’Malley will not stop us, because I'm going to kill him."

“Daniel is priority.” emphasized Joshua. “This is not about revenge.”

“You’re right. It isn’t.” Said Lisa grimly. “But he’ll try again. O’Malley will try again and again if we don’t bury him for good this time. Just like Pryde, he’ll keep coming back. Daniel will never be safe as long as Richard O’Malley lives. None of us will.”

“She’s right.” Said Gwen. “You know this, Joshua. O’Malley must die.”

Joshua nodded. “So be it.”

"Alright, when do we leave?" Asked Lisa.

“Tonight.”

Jumpship Schwartzmeister
Location Unknown
26 June 3055

Agent Antoine Anderson walked onto the bridge of the jumpship, magnetic boots holding him securely to the floor in the zero-G. The petite female figure in the center of the bridge did not turn when he entered, but he knew who it was.

“Duchess, to what do I owe this honor? Last I could tell, you were on Tharkad at the funeral.”

The Duchess turned, slowly only because of her own magnetic boots. “I was, but command circuit managed to get me here only slightly behind news transmissions of the ceremony. You’re an important part of the plan, Agent Anderson. It wouldn’t do to lose you now.”

“O’Malley escaped.” Reported Anderson.

“His personal vendetta with the Star Swords is no concern of mine.” Said the Duchess. “Phase One of the plan is coming to a close and Richard O’Malley is proving a dangerous liability.”

“But a useful one. The abduction of the Messer boy will certainly bring a demand from General Messer to join the fight, if Victor hasn’t ordered them aboard already.”

“As I said, his personal matters are of no concern. What is of concern is the simple fact that O’Malley knows too much. His inquisitiveness has allowed him access to the later phases of the plan. He is not meant to know these things. That makes him dangerous.”

“That might explain why he struck at New Belfast now. He knows his days are numbered.” Antoine paused. “Give the boy to his father and his family before it’s too late.”

“Perhaps.”

“It still serves our purposes, Duchess. Messer will kill O’Malley and clean up our mess for us. Just as Victor will eliminate the others not involved with Phase Two.”

“True. If my plan is to succeed, I must ensure that the Conspiracy remains totally devoted to me alone, and not to my puppet. By getting Prince Victor to do the job for me, it keeps my role in this secret. If I sent one of you to do it, DMI and LIC would immediately suspect another hand at work. If phase two is to succeed, I must remain undiscovered by the enemy.”

“When is phase two to begin then?”

“I do not know yet. Victor’s action may clean house for me, but it will throw the organization into chaos. It will be a short time before I can contain that chaos. But Victor doesn’t suspect a thing. He doesn’t know just how deep this Conspiracy truly goes. And by the time he does, his throne will be mine.”

Part Five – Turning the Tables

Chapter Twenty-Eight - Vanishings

MacLeod City
New Belfast
Tamar March, Federated Commonwealth
19 June 3055

The stranger scribbled his name across the payment invoice. “So tell me, how is business?” he asked.

The hostel manager took the invoice and read over the name. “Pretty good, Mr. Martin. Getting better actually, now that Dal Pryde is dead and the Falcons seem to have lost interest in us.”

“Pryde is dead?” the stranger perked up at the news.

“Yeah, a year ago. They say General Messer took his sword and ran it through his throat.” The manager thrust his arm forward for dramatic effect, imitating how he thought Pryde’s execution was accomplished. “Brought us justice for that year under Pryde’s tender care.”

The stranger chuckled grimly. “I know. I was a prisoner for a time under that ‘tender care.’”

The manager shivered. “I don’t want to know what horrors you faced under Pryde and that monster O’Malley. But then,” The manager glanced downward to the stranger’s crotch, “you don’t exactly have the right equipment for O’Malley to have been interested in you.”

“True enough.”

“So a month then, Mr. Martin?”

“Quicker if I can manage it. Looking for a ship to take me aboard.”

“You star sailors. All alike. You journey from planet to planet like restless vagabonds. Then the job dries up, the company dumps you on some planet, and you wait until some other opportunity comes along.” The manager smiled. “I know your type. We get your kinda folk in here all the time, and the dropship captains know to come looking for you here. I’ll keep my eyes open. It shouldn’t be too long. As I said, with Pryde dead, New Belfast’s back in business again.”

“Good. This place holds some bad memories for me. I’d rather not stay longer than I have to.”

“I can imagine. Good day, Mr. Martin.”

Ski Resort
New Belfast
Tamar March, Federated Commonwealth
21 June 3055

Lisa rolled over and snuggled up against the warmth of her husband. “I’m so glad you brought us here.” She murmured under her breath.

“Daisaku found this place a few years ago.”

“I remember. Your guys’ weekend away when I was having my….troubles.” She rubbed her cheek against the stubble on his chin. “I’m so sorry for all that I put you through.”

“Stop it.” Said Joshua firmly, but gently. “I’ve long since forgiven all that, as I hope you’ve forgiven me.”

“I have.” She said, giving him a light kiss. She hovered over his face, as if uncertain what to do next. “Do you hear that?”

Joshua paused to listen. “Helicopters.”

“Coming for us.” Said Lisa. As if on cue, their personal communicators across the room began to beep with the recall signal. “Damn.”

“Oh, there’s still a little time.” Joshua grabbed her and rolled over. “We were working on another one.”

“There’s no…time.” She gasped slightly as he entered her. “Stop it you’ll wake him.”

Joshua looked back at the crib where Daniel was sleeping quietly. “Only if you cry out, my love.” He thrust again.

“You don’t make…it very easy.” She replied. Joshua laughed.

Their lovemaking was hurried, but ultimately still interrupted by the rapid knock at their door.

“Just…a…minute.” Barked Joshua to the door as he reached climax. He rolled off of Lisa. “Enter.” He ordered.

“Joshua!” exclaimed Lisa, grabbing for the covers. Joshua made no effort to cover his nudity.

Gwen entered and glanced over the couple. “I apologize for interrupting, but this is a matter of great urgency.”

“The Falcons had better be invading again.” Grumbled Joshua, as he stood up.

“I wish.” Said Gwen grimly. She held up a vid-chip. “This arrived less than an hour ago via ComStar. It will be broadcast planetwide once you and the Duke have seen it. Erik is waiting to give the word to release it to the public.”

“What is it?”

Gwen turned to the tri-vid screen and inserted the chip. Joshua picked up the waking Daniel as the screen flickered to life.

“Oh, my God.” Said Joshua. Behind him, Lisa let out a gasp of horror and grief.

“Yeah,” said Gwen. “Now you know.”

“This changes everything. Assemble the Swords.”

“Already done. Recall went out just a few minutes ago. You’d best get dressed and packed. Vacation’s over.”

MacLeod City
New Belfast
Tamar March, Federated Commonwealth
21 June 3055

The stranger bustled down the street with some haste. His face was filled with a look of frustration and it made the others walking the streets of New Belfast’s capital city pause and move aside to avoid a confrontation with this obviously angry man.

Above him, on the side of the New Belfast Broadcasting Building, one of the tallest in the city, was a giant tri-vid screen. Upon it, the network displayed its daily broadcast, the same as could be seen in any home, only here displayed upon a screen 10 meters in height. People often stopped in the street to gaze upward to see the latest news or weather report or the goings on of their favorite soap opera characters. Whatever grabbed their fancy. The presence of these gawkers only added to the stranger’s annoyance.

The screen flashed bright yellow with the words “Special Report” and the volume, already loud enough to be heard clearly in the city street below amplified to get people’s attention. The stranger stopped, as did everyone, to note what sort of emergency news the network was bringing to them. The last time it had done so was to broadcast word of Dal Pryde’s attack the year before.

The familiar image of two newscasters appeared on-screen. “We interrupt your regularly scheduled broadcast for this special news report.” Said the one, visibly shaken. “It is our sad…” He sobbed for a moment and fought to regain his composure. “…our sad duty to inform you that Archon Melissa Steiner was assassinated on Tharkad two days ago.”

The second took over for his troubled partner. “This footage, arrived just moments ago…” The screen shifted to an image of carnage. “…comes to us from the Frederick Steiner Memorial Library, whose dedication the Archon was keynoting. A bomb blast ripped through the assembled delegates, killing dozens and wounding many more. We have received confirmation that Archon Melissa was among the deceased.”

“Son of a bitch, Steiner. What sort of mischief have you gotten into since I’ve been gone? The Conspiracy is dead or nearly so and you do this? Victor will slaughter us to the man in revenge.” The stranger shook his head in further frustration. “Madness. This whole rebellion has become an exercise in madness.”

Star Swords Command Center
New Belfast
Tamar March, Federated Commonwealth
22 June 3055

Joshua sat quietly as he looked over the latest news reports he’d received from the front. He sought distraction from the horrible news from Tharkad. Ten months, nearly a year, since Dal Pryde found final defeat on New Belfast. Ten months of peace, now shattered by an assassin’s bomb.

Peace may have reigned on New Belfast, but elsewhere was different. Prince Victor had fought back the Capellans in the Sarna March and fought back the Conspiracy until now it held only a fraction of the worlds it once did. Clustered around Northwind, the remaining rebels dug in and waited for what was now inevitable. But the hammer blow had not yet come. Victor found further distraction from Clan incursions near the Periphery border, the so-called Red Corsair.

“The warrior in him runs from battle to battle, as if dodging the tasks of head of state. I wonder if Steiner and O’Malley found vulnerability in our Prince’s distracted state.” Mused Joshua silently.

The sound of Daniel playing on Joshua’s office floor drew Joshua’s attention away from his thoughts. He smiled as his son battled toy Battlemechs against one other.

“It must be so easy for you, my son. But soon the warrior’s duty will be entrusted to you also.” Daniel looked up at his father, only barely understanding the meaning, but smiling nonetheless at his father’s voice.

There came a rap at the door. “Enter.” Barked Joshua.

Lisa walked in with Marian close behind. “It’s time.” She said.

Joshua nodded. “I know.” He stood up, gathered up the things he would need for the briefing. Marian moved to sit down on the floor next to Daniel, resuming as she so often did her task of babysitting the toddler when duty called away his parents.

“You be good, Daniel, with Auntie Marian while Mommy and Daddy have their meeting.”

“Ok.” Piped up the 2 year old.

“I got word today that they’ve finally gotten Gil-Galad put back together.” Said Joshua to his wife as they headed down the hall. It was obvious attempt to avoid the subject that weighed on everyone’s mind.

“Took them long enough.” Complained Lisa, playing along and grateful for the distraction. “It’s not that old a mech.”

“Mounting Clan technology weapons on an Inner Sphere frame can be a tricky proposition.”

“The Dark Rangers didn’t seem to have too much trouble with it.”

“Yeah, but they’ve got Doc.” Said Joshua. “I certainly wouldn’t mind having him on our team.”

“Logan would shoot you if you tried to recruit him away from them.”

“I know. Speaking of the Rangers, I’ve heard they’re back on Babeski after a successful year in the Combine. Came back with a new dropship and everything.”

“A new dropship?”

“Yeah, some experimental thing they stole from the Smoke Jaguars.”

“And the Combine let them keep it?”

“Not sure the Combine knew about it.”

“They’re going to need it.” Said Lisa, bring both their thoughts back to the real matter at hand.

“Yeah, I imagine so.” Together, they entered the briefing room.

“All rise!” barked Mechlanthon. “General Messer arriving.”

“As you were.” Said Joshua. It had been a long time since the Swords had used that level of formality, but the gravity of the last two days seem to merit it.

Joshua glanced past the assembled officers to the window that overlooked the headquarters grounds. Outside, the Federated Commonwealth flag flew at half-mast.

“Given recent events, I doubt it’s any surprise as to why I’ve called this briefing.” Began Joshua. “Daisaku on Evcilier will be apprised of our discussions, as they will have bearing on the 2nd Swords as well. Orders came down less than an hour ago from the hand of Victor himself. He’s accelerating his timetable to attack Northwind and bring Duke Ryan to heel.”

“As predicted. But you say orders?” said Erik.

“Yes, orders. Victor wants the Star Swords, both regiments, as part of the attack force. And he wants our help with something else.”

“What precisely?” asked Lisa.

“Victor knows, as I’ve long suspected, that most of the Highlanders have lost their stomach for this fight. Victor wants to subvert them and to that end he has put together a team to undermine completely their relationship with Duke Ryan. Heading up that team is your old friend Nathan Bairn.” Joshua looked at Lisa. “Nathan’s been given a lot of leeway in choosing his team. He’s asking for Justice to sign on again.”

“I’m not so sure about that.” Said Lisa grimly.

“It’s purely voluntary. Even if you choose not to go, my dear, I would like to send one of our own to Northwind nonetheless.” His eyes darted to Gwen, but even if they hadn’t, everyone knew she would be the one.

“Why? Victor will provide us all the recon we’d need.” Said Ryan.

“Prince Victor may be interested in subverting Highlanders. I’d like to subvert one of Duke Ryan’s other defenders. Reports have come in that at least one other unit is now garrisoning Northwind against us.”

“Fourth battalion.” Said Erik. “Juan’s brought Fourth battalion home to roost.”

“Yes, Juan Miranda’s been quite busy throughout this war, causing all sorts of trouble within the Combine, but he’s been recalled back to Northwind for the final stand. I’m prepared to offer him a bit of amnesty if he’ll order his forces to stand down and surrender when Victor launches his attack. I’m sure whatever attack force Victor is putting together will be relieved to not have to face down Clan Omnimechs.”

“A bit of amnesty? Explain.” Asked Ryan.

“Simple. He and his officers return with their stolen equipment to us here on New Belfast, with reduction in pay and rank as befits soldiers having gone AWOL.”

“A slap on the wrist?” Said Ryan with annoyance. “He betrayed us.”

“It’s a better offer than any he’ll receive from Prince Victor and he’ll know it too.”

“If Lisa refuses, I’ll go.” Said Gwen. “It’s what you had in mind anyway. I know Northwind almost as well as Lisa and I’ve also worked with Agent Bairn also.”

“As to the rest of us, as I said, Victor has requested the presence of both 1st and 2nd regiments’ mech forces for the final assault. We should be on the move as soon as possible. Victor will not long delay after his mother’s funeral to make the attack.”

“No, he’ll want to bring things to closure soon and decisively. This rebellion has gone on too long already and we have paid too dear a price for the delay.” Said Lisa. “There are murmurs, rumors. The Lyran sector is becoming increasingly dissatisfied with Prince Victor’s handling of the Conspiracy crisis.”

“And with Melissa now dead, those rumors will blow out of control.” Said Joshua. “Yes, this is a delicate time. With Melissa dead, the twin nations of the Lyran Commonwealth and the Federated Suns come together at last under one ruler. The Federated Commonwealth is now a reality in every way it can be. That’s a tall order for any man and all the more reason to bring those in open rebellion to heel now.”

Everyone in the room nodded. “Everyone, prepare your units for departure. Lisa, my dear, I hate pressure you about this, but I would have your answer within a day. You need to go on ahead of us to Northwind as soon as possible.”

Lisa nodded. “I know.”

“That is all. Dismissed.”

Shetland foothills, near Castle MacLeod
New Belfast
Tamar March, Federated Commonwealth
23 June 3055

The stranger crept through the woods silently. Nearby, he could hear the conversation: Two women together, with the additional sound of a small child laughing and playing nearby. He paused, leery of being discovered. His quarry was near.

“It seems each time I try to escape my past it comes back with a vengeance.” Mused the one. “Look at him, Gwen. Red hair, freckles, he’s more his father every day.”

“That’s not Daniel’s fault.” Said the other firmly. “Lisa, you can’t fault your son for his father’s crimes. Joshua doesn’t.”

“And I don’t want to. But it’s hard when every time I look at Daniel, I see Robert.”

“You need to put that behind you.”

“I know. But that’s my point. My past hangs on me like the literary albatross. Now Joshua wants me to go back to Northwind, back to there, back to all those horrid memories.”

“You can refuse that request. I’ve already told Joshua I will go in your stead. Bairn can live without Justice. You don’t need to do that to yourself.”

“No, Gwen, I do. Juan knows me, we fought together, bled together. He’ll listen to me. You are a newcomer, a stranger to him. He has no reason to trust what you say. He’ll believe me.”

“So, seeking to subvert Agent Miranda, are they? No surprises there. The fewer Conspiracy troops they face when the inevitable invasion comes, the easier their victory will be.” Mused their hidden observer silently.

“Then you’ve made up your mind.” Said Gwen, rubbing her horse on the nose.

“I have.” Said Lisa, watching little Daniel as he waded in a nearby stream.

The stranger stepped forward from the woods. It was time to put his plan in motion.

Lisa and Gwen both spun with a start at his appearance. “Afternoon, ladies. It was been a while.”

Gwen’s sword flashed from its scabbard with blinding speed. “O’Malley! Here?”

O’Malley’s pistol spoke once and Gwen went sprawling. “Typical Star Sword. Drawing a blade when a gun would do.”

Lisa broke into a run, scooping up Daniel from the stream and running towards her own horse. O’Malley’s gun spoke twice more. The horses let loose agonized whinnies as the bullets tore into them both.

“Oh, no, you’re not escaping me this time. You and your son.”

Those words chilled Lisa to the bone. He wasn’t just after her. She went to where Gwen lay unmoving in the grass. Dropping Daniel beside her, she picked up Gwen sword. It was the only weapon they had.

“So much better this way, isn’t it?” said O’Malley. “You’ve been itching for this fight for some time now.”

“You’ll not take my son.” Said Lisa, bringing the sword up between them.

“Oh, but I will. He is my brother’s heir. An O’Malley, as your conversation a minute ago made perfectly clear.” Richard fired again. The bullet tore into her left shoulder and passed through. Lisa spun from the shock of the impact and dropped to the ground. She struggled back to her feet.

“But I’m not interested in what you want.” O’Malley continued. “Dead by blade or gun, it doesn’t matter to me. I’ll not make the same mistake twice of allowing you to linger long enough for some cavalry to come to the rescue. But it’s my brother’s son I’m here for. You’re just icing on the cake.”

With that, O’Malley moved to snatch the crying Daniel. Lisa hauled herself to her feet, sword still in hand. She swung at O’Malley. He parried with the only thing he had available, his pistol. The blow smashed the gun beyond repair and went through to cut a nasty gash in Richard’s hand.

“You’ll have to finish me before I let you touch him.” She said with ferocity. “Daniel, run!” The toddler, frightened by his mother’s frantic tone, did as he was told, wobbling up the hill as fast as his short legs could carry him.

Richard backhanded Lisa, sending her sprawling. He then headed up the hill after Daniel, turning his back on Lisa. Lisa dove for his ankles, knocking him down with a tackle. Lisa was first back on her feet and raised her sword to strike a killing blow.

O’Malley rolled over and slammed both feet into Lisa’s gut. The blow knocked the wind out of her and she went flying down the hill. Rather than repeat the mistake of turning his back to Lisa, he pressed his attack, jumping to his feet and heading after her.

Lisa had staggered back to her feet when O’Malley came upon her. His first move was to grab her sword arm, keeping the deadly weapon from him. Lisa responded by smashing a series of punches to his face. Although not as strong as O’Malley, especially so with her wounded shoulder, her blows were well aimed, striking his right eye and temple repeatedly. Richard slammed her elbow against his knee, snapping the bone and causing Lisa to drop her sword. The sudden pain of having her arm broken made her cease her attack.

O’Malley, using her injured arm as leverage, threw her into the stream. Hitting the cold water revived Lisa somewhat, and she grabbed the nearest object she could find, a rock. Standing up, she threw the rock with her good arm, striking Richard dead center of his chest. There was a crack and Lisa knew she’d broken his breastbone.

O’Malley staggered for a second, and Lisa was on him like lightning. She slammed her knee into his gut, causing him to double over. She then brought her knee against his injured chest, once, twice, three times before O’Malley lost his footing and fell over in pain.

“Damnit, die already.” She snarled.

Lisa tried to press her advantage by stomping down on the back of his neck, but Richard rolled over, snagging her leg in the process. With her leg pulled out from under her, Lisa went down, landing on her wounded arm. Agony shot through her body as she hit, stunning her for a critical few seconds.

O’Malley grabbed her by her shirt collar and hoisted her into the air. “I underestimated you again, Lady Lisa.” he gasped. “You prove tougher each time. But not again.”

“This isn’t over yet.” Lisa slammed her foot forward, catching him just below the rib cage. O’Malley dropped her and doubled over, falling into the stream as he did so. “You will never take my son away from me.” she swore, kicking him repeatedly.

O’Malley, mustering what little strength he had left, caught one of those kicks in mid-motion, and shoved backwards against Lisa. That unbalanced her and knocked her into the water. Richard grabbed a rock of his own and smashed it down on Lisa’s head as she tried to stand. She slumped into the cold water.

He was about to hold her under to finish her when he felt the earth tremor. “Damn!” he swore and he staggered to his feet. Clearing the trees not more than 100 meters behind him was a Cauldron Born battlemech. It raised its right arm as O’Malley dashed up the hill after Daniel, trying to close the distance between himself and the child before the mech opened fire. The aforementioned cavalry was here.

Joshua had been nearby taking his mech out for a spin with Ryan and Amanda when he heard the tell tale sound of a pistol shot. Knowing that spelled trouble, he’d headed in the direction of the sound. Now he found his wife in a life-and-death struggle with someone he was astonished to see on New Belfast.

Joshua pressed his finger on the trigger of his small laser. A crimson beam of light lanced out from the mech’s right arm, superheating the soil not more than three meters from O’Malley. The small explosion that occurred knocked Richard off his feet.

“Move again and I guarantee I won’t miss.” said Joshua, moving his finger to the trigger for the small laser’s bigger counterpart, one of the mech’s two ER mediums. Even a near miss with that weapon would fry O’Malley alive.

But O’Malley didn’t come out from behind the cloud of dust, or so it seemed. Joshua stepped forward, trying to get a better look. He glanced over at Daniel, but his son had disappeared.

“Damn, he’s got a stealth suit.” swore Joshua. “Amanda, I need you.”

Amanda’s mech, the Loki, was the only one even capable of seeing Richard when he had his suit activated. With its advanced Beagle Probe, she could detect something as minute as the buttons on Lisa’s clothing at this range. Her mech emerged from the woods behind Joshua to begin scanning.

Joshua disembarked and ran over to where Lisa was lying in the stream, heedless of the danger of an invisible O’Malley.

“Where is he?” snarled Joshua, as he helped his dazed wife to her feet.

“I can’t find him. I’m getting a lot of bad readings.” Responded Amanda on his headset radio.

“That doesn’t make sense. What’s wrong?”

“There’s an ECM field. O’Malley planned this well.”

Joshua’s scream of rage filled the New Belfast air as rain started to come down in torrents.