Survivors of '68

First Reconstituted Irregulars, Columbian Independent Mercenary Company

[cipher-of-the-round-table]

Right, considering the current state of corporate politics on this site, and that it seems that only those affected seem to be actively speaking on the matter, it is up to I, the only fucking cishet on tumblr, to drag this out to a wider audience.

REBLOG IF YOUR ACCOUNT IS A TRANSFEM SAFE SPACE.

We need to show these higher ups how much we truly value them.

[cyberpriestess]

including the weird weird trannies

is your blog a safe space for freaks, deviants, cringe failgirls, transfems you find personally annoying, transfems who are Loud and Opinionated, is it safe for all of us ?

[finalgirlabigailhobbs]

reblog to bonk the person you reblogged it from with a hollow cardboard tube

[is-the-battlemech-cool-or-not]

ANIMUS REX 6

Time: Drop + 1.21h

Ash.

The drop zone was a blasted waste, grey cratered earth studded with burning wreckage and the icy blue glow of missed particle cannon fire. The snow that blanketed the landscape was gone, burned away by the searing heat of the weapons that scorched what had once been beautiful fields and forests.

Even the snowfall from above was stained by the conflict, mixed with the ashfall from the battlefield. It fell in sheets and waves, slowly burying the dead and the dying alike. The field was finally quiet, the gunfire from Kinship muted to little more than distant thunder.

Here and there, shapes moved in the gloom of the setting sun. Survivors, scavengers. Ghosts, haunting their last battleground. They stumbled through the trenches and along the great smoking furrows carved by lasfire, some calling out for comrades, others for help, and still others saying nothing at all.

Firelight flickered along a ridgeline, casting long shadows in the growing dark. The figures of four ‘Mechs stood together there- silent escorts to watch over the field, knights of old mendicant and penitent before the departing victorious and the dead. They looked brave, at a glance- standing together in their matching white armor before the field of battle. That impression ended at the notice of their condition. They stood together because they had no other choice- the still-glowing chassis of the Cyclops was missing one leg at the knee actuator, and was leaned against its’ fellow- a Rifleman II, itself missing both arms, with a clean hole punched front-to-back through its cockpit. The Gauss slugs lodged in the armor of the Marauder at its back left no doubt as to the cause. Lastly, the mighty Shootist, with Royal SLDF markings still visible on the armored shoulder plates, knelt beside its fellows. Cut hydraulic lines and coolant ducting spilled from the wounds in its torso, felled as it had been by massed autocannon fire.

A scant few ‘Mechs here and there lay prone, but intact. The remains of both Delta lances were slowly finding their way together as the attacking force moved towards Kinship in the distance. The defending forces- especially the lighter vehicles and infantry- holding as best they could against one of the Blakist drones and a few of its’ surviving escorts would not fare well against the remaining ‘Mechs that had won this fight. Green smoke, distress flares, and even simple bonfires lit the small gatherings that began to form, cries for help for the wounded and desperately needed support for allies ahead.

Like a miracle, bright sparks appeared above as an enormous Clan DropShip descended, hovered, then slowly set down. From inside it poured medics in MASH vehicles, repair technicians with recovery haulers, logistics crews, and- most impressively- seven BattleMechs, looking fresh off the production line… @navcommrelay

[navcommrelay]

KINSHIP 4

Time: D-Day + 74 Hours Location: KINSHIP Forward Operating Base Forces On Station: CFRI, Silver Wing, Barghest Company Forces En Route: CFRI Delta Lances [Error: Redirected] Objective: Engage enemy Jericho-class superheavy drone on approach.

After-Action Report:

Barghest Company Godkiller Star Engaged Superheavy Jericho Drone in combat. Initial speculation that the drone would be unable to target captured Celestial series Omni-mechs was correct, allowing Lt. Colonel Anya Corwin, Major Victoria Everheart, Major Bill Weaver, Major Kei Franklin and Major Elenor Von Strauss to inflict noticeable damage onto the drone during the initial stages of the engagement, knocking out the weapons on two legs and damaging the armor and main gun housing. The drone’s inability to target Godkiller did not extend for the duration of the engagement, resulting in Godkiller Star taking heavy fire from the drone and being forced into cover, sustaining major damage to all ‘mechs before they could get into cover. All mechs mobile and operational, however Major Elenor’s ‘mech sustained noticeably more damage due to its light weight compared to the rest of the star. CFRI Recon Elements moved to assist and sustained heavy losses (See CFRI Report below). The drone’s preoccupation and engagement with 1-Beta and 2-Alpha, as well as the small gap in the fire arcs provided by the damage sustained to the two legs, allowed Major Elenor Von Strauss to close with her heavily damaged Preta, and despite her mech being largely torn apart by the remaining weapons, throw her ‘mech beneath the Drone’s main body. A Long Tom artillery strike was called in from SLDF Regimental Artillery Battalion - “Caber” outside of Coen City by Major Elenor, resulting in heavy damage to the Drone’s capital-class XL(SCL), disabling the weapon, and inflicting general damage to the armor of the machine. Major Elenor was unable to escape the area and has been confirmed KIA. During the bombardment, remaining elements of Godkiller were able to pull back to Kinship FOB for rearmament and repair. Jericho Drone estimated at 80 - 75% offensive effectiveness remaining, and estimated 75% defensive effectiveness.

Barghest Company Comms log:

Godkiller 4: SLDF RAB Caber, this is…Godkiller 4, requesting immediate…artillery strike, my location…*sounds of wet coughing*

SLDF RAB Caber: This is Caber, Godkiller 4, we read you, designate target. We’re getting ECM interference your position.

Godkiller 4: …Godkiller 4 to…Caber…sending now…lock onto reactor signature for GM 270 Light Fusion engine…*sounds of wet coughing*...recommend…full barrage.

SLDF RAB Caber: Roger that, Godkiller 4, dropping the hammer. Suggest immediate evac of area surrounding designated target.

Godkiller 4: …negative…*coughing continues* unable to evac…can’t move my legs…and will bleed out before I get picked up…

SLDF RAB Caber: …Roger Godkiller 4…godspeed.

Further examination of comms chatter within Godkiller revealed that Major Elenor had suffered terminal injuries from shrapnel within her mech’s cockpit, including a severed spine, punctured lung, and significant lacerations. Major Elenor Von Strauss has been recommended for posthumous award of SLDF Medal of Honor.

Barghest Company Kinship FOB forces move forward to engage the remaining 14 Word escort ‘mechs, supported by elements of SWMC repaired after engagement with lead Word elements. Barghest Company mechs formed a V formation, with assaults and superheavy T-Rex taking point, followed by heavies, forcing the Word elements to choose between facing the oncoming mechs or braving the mined streets and pathways. Medium and Light ‘mechs held in reserve for repair and serve as a possible QRF in the event of flanking maneuvers through minefield. Engagement soon becomes a point blank brawl. Barghest Company mechs disable or kill nine enemy mechs, including both Omegas. Major Roberta is credited with the destruction of one Omega, and an Archangel, sustaining armor damage and an expenditure of all RAC10 ammo. Commander Owen McEvedy is credited with three kills, a Deva, Grigori, and Archangel. No damage sustained. Two Seraphs and the remaining Omega were taken out via combined efforts of Lt. Ann, Lt. Smith, Lt. Delila, Lt. Pam, Lt. Clara and Captain Bastian, with Lt. Delila scoring a cockpit shot on the Omega. All mechs involved are damaged, but not severely. Colonel Bell and Major Bridget Hazen killed another Seraph through focused fire as directed by Colonel Bell. Minor damage sustained to both Shrike and Mad Cat Mk II. Remaining Preta that was not present during forward element engagement crippled by anti-mech mines as it attempted to flee, pilot captured by CFRI infantry.

Silver Wing Lances Alpha and Bravo departed Kinship following repair and rearm to assist Barghest Company forces that had also been stationed onsite. Both lances engaged additional elements of the drone escorts. In an extended firefight, four heavy enemy ‘mechs were outright destroyed, seemingly unwilling to retreat. Downed ‘mechs included a Mortis, a Crusader, a Falconer, and a White Flame. Two SWMC ‘mechs were downed during the fight. Bravo 2 suffered a loss of its gyro, causing the pilot to eject. Chute was spotted, but the pilot was not located. Alpha 1 received a blow to the head, causing the loss of contact with the pilot. The ‘mech then collapsed. No ejection spotted, pilot not recovered. Alpha 2 lost all weapons, but remains operational. Combat effective ‘mechs remained on station to further assist in the defense.

CFRI Recon Elements engaged the enemy superheavy in support of Barghest Company Godkiller Star once they began to take heavy fire from Jericho Drone. Due to the lack of targeting interference afforded to the repurposed Celestial-series BattleMechs fielded by the Godkiller Star, losses were immediate on contact. In order of occurrence: 1-Beta-1: (Thorn) On initial approach, the ‘Mech suffered catastrophic damage to its left side torso from pinpoint-accurate sustained Class-2 Ultra Autocannon fire at maximum engagement range, resulting in core destruction. Pilot ejected, but was killed mid-air by LRM fire. ‘Mech abandoned, classed non-repairable.

1-Beta-2, 1-Beta-3, 1-Beta-4: (Wasp, Stinger, Locust)1-Beta-4 was directly hit by the Jericho’s Naval-class primary weapon (XLSCL) and destroyed. The overwhelming and immediate energy input caused a catastrophic failure of the fusion bottle in the Locust’s extralight 160-rating engine, resulting in a chained fusion detonation. The explosion vaporized the ‘Mech and damaged the Stinger and Wasp beyond all hope of repair. Their pilots did not survive the radiation and heat of the explosion. 

2-Alpha-2: (Mongoose)

The second-wave approach by 2-Alpha was both slower and more cautious after the complete destruction of 1-Beta. As a result, 2-Alpha-2 was struck by enemy Class-10 cluster autocannon fire, disabling its left arm, but was already in partial cover and able to remain operationally effective. The destructive power and nature of the Jericho cannot be overstated, and sustained supporting fire by the surviving recon lance was able to account for, at absolute maximum estimate, minor armor damage. Advisory from 2-Alpha Lance Command urges extreme caution, noting the inhuman speed and reaction time of the drone, as well as its ability to focus clusters of weapons independently on separate targets, making fast-moving wolfpack tactics extremely risky, if not completely ineffective. Note for later record, award posthumous commendations.  @lt-chari @msn-04iinightingale @combined-arms-merc-groups @is-the-battlemech-cool-or-not

[is-the-battlemech-cool-or-not]

ANIMUS REX 5

The cockpit of Righteous Indignation rocked with the DropShip, the mass of metal swaying as one in the twirling wake of its’ sister, the pair falling like stars through the planet’s atmosphere below. Viewports flared incandescent with the passing plasma trails as the vessels descended, the ‘Mechs in drop cradles within illuminated in bursts as though by titanic muzzle flash.

80,000 Meters. Drop in 5. Main systems start.

The gantries hummed and whirred with vibration as the rattle grew, the flaming sky giving way to cloud and storm. The hiss as the hull cooled from orange-hot was audible even inside the cockpits of the ‘Mechs, adding to the thunderous cacophony.

60,000 Meters. Drop in 4. Reactor, online.

Shrieking alarms filled the bay as the DropShip’s sensors warned of target locks, radar pings, and- most concerningly, massed incoming anti-aircraft fire. The craft pitched down even further, banking and rolling as the blinding white of magnesium flares blanketed the sky behind the ships.

40,000 Meters. Drop in 3. Sensors, online.

Cockpit lights flashed in sequence, illuminating the pilots as comms came alive with check-ins and automated system readouts.

20,000 Meters. Drop in 2. Weapons, online.

Quiet cursing, muttered prayers, panic-quickened breathing, and the clicking of last-moment adjustments filled the comms as Delta Lance readied for the hellfire below. The quiet hum of energy weapon capacitors and the rattle of spooling autoloaders broke through the background noise as the great machines readied their teeth.

10,000 Meters. Drop in 1. All systems, nominal.

Drop bay doors opened to yellow warning lights and blaring klaxons, the fast-approaching ground below a blur of weapons fire and burning debris.

Drop Altitude. All BattleMechs- Prepare to engage.

The drop cradles released their cargo and the ‘Mechs fell to earth- into the waiting guns of the Word of Blake.

[navcommrelay]

KINSHIP 3

Time: D-Day + 72 Hours Location: KINSHIP Forward Operating Base Forces On Station: CFRI, Silver Wing Forces En Route: CFRI Delta Lances, Barghest Company (Arriving) Objective: Defend FOB from enemy ‘Mech assault. After-Action Report:

Barghest Company arrived, deploying six mechs (Jenner IIC, Raven, Konito, Mad Cat Mk III, Skinwalker, Berserker) to assist in the fighting withdrawal and minelaying efforts of engaged CFRI and Silver Wing elements. The rest of Barghest Company deployed at Kinship FOB and will move up to engage the bulk of the escort forces once CFRI and Silver Wing elements return with assisting Barghest Company elements. Godkiller Star sent North, circling wide to the West in order to avoid being drawn into fight with escorts, and will begin engaging the Drone as soon as possible. Barghest Company Mechs engaged in covering the retreat accounted for four mechs, with Lt. Clara Buche claiming two kills herself, a damaged Grigori and a Malak, while Pvt. Sin & Cpt. Weiss taking out another Petra, and Pvt. Amaryllis and Lt. Flora crippling another Malak.

Commander McEvedy, Colonel Bell, Major Bridget, Major Roberta, Lt. Ann, Lt. Smith, Cpt. Nero, Lt Delila and Lt Pam deployed mechs to fortify the FOB, and prepare for full engagement with Word escorts.

SWMC Bravo Lance began a rapid withdrawal, following the arrival of Barghest Company reinforcements. Some fire was exchanged, but no kills were logged during this time. They then regrouped at Kinship for repairs and rearming, alongside Alpha Lance. 

CFRI Recon 2-Alpha (Mercury, Mongoose, Piranha, Goshawk II) and 1-Beta (Thorn, Wasp, Stinger, Locust) deployed via main supply route to the east, moving along a wide flank past the highway before continuing South towards the bridge, standing orders are to hold position at a distance and wait for confirmation from Barghest Company Godkiller Star to engage and conduct harassing attacks on the drone during its approach towards the FOB. CFRI 1-Alpha (Packrat, Chevalier, Hunter, Galleon, Royal Demon, Stoat, Buffalo-DB) deployed with CFRI Recon before entrenching in a holding position in the suburban area to the South-East of Kinship FOB to defend against any enemy forces attempting to bypass the garrison at Coen City.

Priority Message Log from CFRI 1-Alpha-6 relayed by Kinship Command to CFRI WarShip Ajax: 1A6: Be advised, an additional group of enemy ‘Mechs has been detected crossing the bridge. AJAX: Copy, pilot. What have you got? 1A6: At least two Level IIs, possibly more. AJAX: Can you elaborate? 1A6: Scanners are having a hell of a time... 1A6: Negative. Something in play has to have some ECM.   AJAX: Understood. We’ll divert 1-Delta and 2-Delta to engage. @lt-chari @msn-04iinightingale @is-the-battlemech-cool-or-not @combined-arms-merc-groups

[navcommrelay]

KINSHIP 2

Time: D-Day + 70 Hours Location: KINSHIP Forward Operating Base Forces On Station: CFRI, Silver Wing Forces En Route: Barghest Company (ETA 2h)Objective: Engage and destroy enemy scout elements.

After-Action Report:

At approximately 0800 hours, local command relayed to all elements that outer perimeter sensors had been triggered by a small force of approaching ‘Mechs. To reduce the risk of casualties and collateral among supporting elements, SWMC Bravo Lance was deployed via the main supply route to a holding position at the base of the southern ridge to engage advance elements, with mortar fire support on-station available from CAMG Infantry elements and CFRI Auxiliaries in the trenches above. Six medium and light ‘mechs outriding for the main drone escort were encountered and engaged. The enemy ‘mechs committed to the fight, which proceeded to last until about half of the opposition was rendered inoperable or combat ineffective. Enemy losses included one medium and one light design, the latter identified as a possible Manei Domini Celestial unit. SWMC Bravo Lance ‘mechs took moderate damage to both external armor and internals, with Bravo 3 experiencing a catastrophic loss of both legs. When the opposition withdrew, the remainder of the lance held the forward position long enough to allow CFRI Logistics to move in the recovery crew for the downed ‘mech. In order to maximize remaining combat efficiency, the chassis was then repurposed as a stationary LRM emplacement at the FOB, leaving the ammo box panels open for live reloading. Current logistics tasking is stockpiling additional ammunition on-site to reduce the need for resupply vehicles to move in the open during the coming assault. Note for commendation the CAMG mortar teams, who provided sufficient accurate fire on target to destroy the cockpit of a WoB BTZ-4G Blitzkrieg, after it was knocked down by allied ‘Mechs. 

@lt-chari @combined-arms-merc-groups @is-the-battlemech-cool-or-not @msn-04iinightingale

[navcommrelay]

KINSHIP 1

Time: D-Day + 68 hours

Location: KINSHIP Forward Operating Base

Forces On Station: CFRI, Silver Wing

Forces En Route: Barghest Company (ETA 4h)

Objective: Set up initial defenses and prepare for enemy attack.

After-Action Report:

SWMC Alpha Lance, with SWMC Bravo Lance as support, conducted a sabotage action against the bridge southeast of Kinship FOB, in an attempt to slow the enemy advance. The action was a success, and the bridge was collapsed on the far end. However in the ensuing firefight, SWA3 was damaged beyond repair and the pilot was forced to eject. Following a short engagement by the rest of the lance, the pilot was recovered. Both lances then retreated to join up with main forces.

All Unassigned Forces on site at Kinship FOB finalized a defensive trench system surrounding the FOB. The system consists of a continuous shallow infantry trench on the South and West sides of the base. The outer edge is reinforced with sandbags, and there are deeper sections dug in anticipation of entrenching CAMG armor returning to base. Additionally, a fallback trenchline built in the same pattern as the primary protects and supports the most defensible location at the facility- the central courtyard, sheltered on three sides by the structure itself and with service entry points to enable the movement of personnel and supplies through the building. 

CFRI Logistics elements set up a number of field Repair Bay stations inside the southeast vehicle entry points to the primary structure. On completion, the Portable Command Module was installed behind the fallback trenchline in front of the main complex, as notated on-map. Delivery of ammunition and medical supplies via DropShip concluded, with available materiel stored in shipping containers east of the main encampment. Those available support personnel who volunteered were issued infantry small arms and equipment procured from allied elements and moved to occupy the fallback trenchline. Officers on the ground noted that this location could be supported by the -MOD series IndustrialMechs assisting in the Repair Bays as a last-ditch effort. Currently, logistics personnel are occupied coordinating the storage of a shipment of Clan-spec Class-10 Rotary Autocannon ammunition requisitioned for advance delivery by Barghest Company.

Silver Wing Comms Log: 

SWMC FR: Can someone go ask the captain if these orders are serious?

SWMC Holk: What's the problem, Gemi? Not cut out for some manual labor?

SWMC FR: You can actually fuck off, Rey, lazing about in orbit while we risk our lives.

SWMC Holk: Ok, just got word from the Captain that yes, you have to do the thing he told you to do.

SWMC FR: I'm saving one of these sandbags to dump onto your bunk.

SWMC Holk: Hey, hey, come on now. Let's not be rash!

@is-the-battlemech-cool-or-not

@lt-chari

@msn-04iinightingale

@combined-arms-merc-groups

[is-the-battlemech-cool-or-not]

ANIMUS REX 4

The twin McKenna-class battleships hung like banners against the background of space. Brief flashes of maneuvering thrusters lit the craft as they turned, ponderously, to bring their colossal weaponry to bear on the world below as a transmission crossed the void.

McKenna’s Pride and Zughoffer Weir, this is OPSCOM en route to deployment. You have an authenticated orbital strike order from Commanding General Hazen. Lock designated targets and fire for effect.

Columns of light lanced down from the ships in orbit, and fire lit the skies.

---------------------------------------------------

On the surface below, the bone-white ‘Mechs of the Word of Blake moved with graceful synchronicity, their impressive command and control architecture ensuring optimal positioning to cover all approach vectors with overlapping fields of fire. Their finely-tuned sensors swept the area ahead for contacts as they moved, eating ground with their titanic strides. They were devoted, well-trained, and well-equipped, with the latest and best equipment they could field.

Unfortunately for them, precisely none of that would matter.

Their first and only warning was the sensor network detecting a massive heat and EM spike from above. Some of the quicker pilots had time to look up, through the rolling sooty cloud cover, in time to see a bright blue flash streaking down at them. Most, though, died in confusion and panic as the particle cannon barrage shredded through their formation. Some of the escort ‘Mechs were simply lucky and were not in the line of fire. A few others danced their way through the rain of massed energy bolts. The massive Jericho-class Assault drones looked, for a time, as though they might simply continue by weight of armor and sheer machine-logic determination. That was, until, one by one, particle bolts began to strike true and penetrate their hulls. Most simply passed through, damaging subsystems or impacting internal structure, but even these immense constructs had a limit.

Last in the line was the first to go, its reactor belching gouts of uncontained plasma as it was cored. Then the leader of the pack, collapsing like a puppet with its strings cut as a lucky shot punched through its control unit. For five unending minutes, the withering spray continued, and kicked up so much dust and debris that nothing could be seen inside the cloud of vaporize dirt, metal, and flesh. Barrels glowed with radiant heat in the void above, the vessels’ capital guns going silent as the remaining two drones began to cross the river…

[is-the-battlemech-cool-or-not]

ANIMUS REX 3

The SLS Menagerie touched down at Forward Operating Base HAWK. The Overlord-C class dropship had been operationally attached to SLS McKenna’s Pride, though the nature of her passengers had been kept secret from all but her crew, the command staff of Operation TOUCHDOWN, and Admiral McKenna - this last was out of courtesy: the Pride was his ship after all. That the DropShip was not literally attached to the McKenna-class battleship, and arrived later, was entirely for reasons of subterfuge. Her cargo was too precious for everyone to know of it immediately.

The doors on Menagerie's sides opened, the embarkation ramps swung down, and seven ‘Mechs, most of which were designs none had seen before - a curiously aquatic looking, streamlined Timber Wolf and a customized Warhammer IIC being the exceptions - ambled out into the rainy Helios mid-day. They stomped their way into the field Mechbays, and their pilots exited their machines. It was a sight to see: a small, but very confident seeming long haired red fox; a massive snowy owl woman; a nearly equally massive, marvelous, and masculine bald eagle; a tall and suave dolphin; an intense seeming rattlesnake; a stunning and muscular raptor; and a stark white bat.

Not since the other Totem Warriors had arrived had a more varied and animalistic group made planetfall on Helios. Gathering together as one group, to the stares of many around them, they made their way to Melissa.

[is-the-battlemech-cool-or-not]

ANIMUS REX 2

Nathaniel Lindsborg sat at the COMSCAN console aboard the Ajax, on his third day with not nearly enough sleep. Every time he finally racked out when things quieted down on the planet below, something managed to start exploding again. The dark circles beneath his eyes and growing pile of empty commissary coffee cups was his own reckoning of time and progress, territory and bodies stacked neatly as little white paper cylinders. He’d heard the call go through, albeit distantly, of the incoming DropShip. However, new assets had been arriving consistently, as well as repair and resupply barges, so yet another orbital arrival was barely news.

The brief calm of the morning was rudely interrupted by the loud ding of the COMSCAN array receiving the next batch of targeting data- the sensors on the McKenna’s Pride were better than most of the rest of the fleet, so he’d simply parked next to it and had the scan data forwarded.

Blearily blinking out of his haze, he choked down the remainder of his coffee before pulling up the new information. Well, fuck, he thought, staring at the readout. I thought we’d have time to take the forts, at least. A silver key hanging from his belt found its way into the covered slot in the console, turned, and alarms began to ring across the fleet.

As Nate fled down the corridor towards the ‘Mech bay, and the waiting DropShips beyond, the console sat stubbornly blinking.

Proximity Alert- Hostiles Approaching KINSHIP FOB.

Only time would tell if the reinforcement call would be enough to save the troops in the field.

[is-the-battlemech-cool-or-not]

ANIMUS REX 1

Jump alerts sounded aboard the ships of the TOUCHDOWN fleet, indicating a nearby arrival in-system, before a fleetwide blackout notice shut them down. The authorizations carried were at the highest level, prompting at most curiosity, before the well-trained crews went back about their business. There was no sense running queries up the chain of command when the Commanding General’s orders had already quashed any inquiry. The WarShip that arrived broadcast no ident markers, and bore markings unknown to most, making its’ unobtrusive way- as much as a Vincent-class WarShip was capable of being unobtrusive- towards the fleet, before disgorging a DropShip at the midway point. Fusion thrusters flared their iridescent blue in the void as the vessel turned away and back towards the L3 point in-system, before a brief flash announced its departure. The DropShip - itself an imposing spheroid of laminated black armor plating- lumbered its way towards the primary battlegroup before sending a tightbeam pulse message to the JumpShip in its’ way- the CFRI Ajax, interposed between the vessel and the SLS McKenna’s Pride as a result of maneuvering to reduce data transfer time for COMSCAN.

-Begin Transmission-

Unknown SLDF DropShip: “By the orders of the Clan Grand Council, we are to rendezvous with the Commanding General’s vessel. We must request you move aside.”

COMSCAN/CFRI: “Understood, DropShip, please confirm authorization code?”

Unknown SLDF DropShip: “Aff. Authorization code, Alpha-Two-Three-Zero-Three-Eight-Five.”

COMSCAN/CFRI: “Wait one… confirmed, DropShip. You are clear to proceed to McKenna’s Pride.”

Unknown SLDF DropShip: “Odyssey JumpShip, what Clan do you call kin?”

COMSCAN/CFRI: "Uhh, yeah, that’ll be clan….Star…Eagle. Yup, that’s us.” (Muffled laughter)

Unknown SLDF DropShip: “Indeed? We are surprised to see forward elements here.”

COMSCAN/CFRI: Uh huh. Sure, y’all. We’ll see you down there.”

(Hotmic: “Man, I didn’t think Clanners had a sense of humor, that guy was great!)

-End Transmission-

[navcommrelay]

JUNO 2-2

3153/10/04: D-Day+1 (?)

Fourth Deployment: 2100 Hours

Deployed:

SWMC Alpha Lance 

SWMC Bravo Lance 

SWMC Support and Logistics

CFRI 1C Alpha Mechanized

CFRI 1C Beta Lance 

CFRI 2C Alpha Lance 

CFRI 2C Beta Angel Squadron [KIA]

CFRI 2C CMD/Logi Unit

DropShip Deployment at LZ:

CFRI 1C CMD/Logi Unit

CFRI 2C Gamma Fire Support

Joint Force Resupply

Clan Sea Fox BattleMech Delivery

Objectives: Regroup and move to next nav point.

After-Action Report:

SWMC Support and Logistics, CFRI 1C HQ/Logi, and CFRI 2C HQ/Logi- collectively designated “CONGRESS,” completed comms mesh testing on arriving reinforcements before conducting FOB teardown at LZ JUNO in preparation for joint departure to LZ GOLD. Reinforcement ‘Mechs arrived via DropShip from Clan Sea Fox. New regimental Order of Battle assigned. On arrival of JTF “SENATE,” all elements proceeded southwest along the supply route to LZ GOLD. On arrival at LZ GOLD, JTF “DECLARATION” separated from “CONGRESS” to proceed to support TOUCHDOWN objectives in the region. “CONGRESS” conducted sweep-and-clear operations before completing construction of Forward Operations Base “KINSHIP” 35 klicks west of Coen City along Main Supply Route. KINSHIP LZ available for TOUCHDOWN DropShip and AeroSpace assets.

CFRI 1-C Gamma with SWMC Bravo 1 and Alpha 4, collectively designated JTF “SENATE,” contacted local command regarding the upcoming rendezvous with the 1st Canopian Cuirassiers and elements of the 1st Aurigan Rangers. On completion of all sweep-and-clear objectives at LZ SWORD, JTF SENATE returned to LZ JUNO along their initial arrival route. At that time, JTF SENATE was disbanded and constituent elements were assigned to JTF “DECLARATION.” CFRI 1-C Alpha, 2-C Alpha, and 1-C Bravo were joined by 2-C Gamma via DropShip insertion at LZ JUNO. All elements held position with “CONGRESS” until all field assets rendezvoused at LZ JUNO. All elements herein assigned to JTF “DECLARATION.”

Inter-Unit Combat Comms Log Excerpt:

SWB1: ”WESTWING, SENATE, and now CONGRESS; what's the reason for these task force names?”

CI1C1: “It’s traditional. Names come from some Old Terran thing.” CI1A1: “American, they called it back in training.”

SWB1: “Oh, wait, I know this one… Uhhh, blue flag with a sort of wind design in the middle?”

CI1C1: “No, that’s the United Nations, I think? Pre-Terran Hegemony.” CI1C2: “I think this was the one with the three panels and the star.”

SWB1: “Ah, I think I understand now. That’d be the ‘yeehaw, freedom’ types that begat the Taurians, at least indirectly?”

CI1C1: “...Ostensibly? That’s long after our involvement.” SWB1: “Alright, I think I have a name for our upcoming task force that should be in line. How do you feel about BILLOFRIGHTS– that would be all capitals and no spaces?” CI1A1: “Let me see… The name scheme checks out… let me plug it in.” CI1C1: “How the hell are we gonna call that out over comms?” SWB1: (Laughing audible) “It seems pretty simple to me. I just did it after all.”

CI/NL: “SOP says max two words, that’s three, y’all. Less is more.”

[navcommrelay]

Greetings, Friend. Star Colonel Jehan of @the-clawtake here. We have a few questions for you regarding your recent askgame.

🟢 💛 💚

If you would be so kind.

Hey howdy, Star Colonel. Happy to oblige. 🟢 To what faction do you belong? Locally, the Columbian First Reconstituted Irregulars. We're mostly second-generation at this point, but there are a few old bastards like me rattling around that were on-world when the Word of Blake decided Columbus should be a little less...inhabitable. We were the ComGuard's leftovers- second and third echelon backup personnel, trainees, families, and the handful of guys like me that were in Medical when the bombing started. As time went on, we just...buckled down and kept going. Life in hab modules and bunkers isn't so bad, and we didn't want for much- ComStar emergency supplies are...were, rather, generously padded to engineering tolerances to avoid shortfall. When we popped back out, we realized we were at the ass-end of nowhere without an HPG, and it took....hell, I don't even know how long before some mining company's exploratory jump put something orbital in-system besides the wreckage of the old shipyard. All this to say, we're our own faction...but as you can maybe tell, more than a little of me will be ComGuard 'till the day I die. 💛 What do you currently pilot? My current ride is a very recently upgraded Emperor-6A, "Righteous Indignation," courtesy of the brilliant @karriethemechtech. The Jump Jets have been removed to add an additional two tons of LBX Autocannon-10 ammunition, swap the CASE for CASE II, and replace the heat sinks with Clan-spec Double Heat Sinks.

My backup ride, as a go-to, is usually my custom Bushwacker-P1, affectionately referred to as "Overconfidence." Most of my 'Techs have explicitly stated that's what it takes to pilot the damn thing and not blow up. 💚What do techs usually complain about with your piloting? ...I will neither confirm nor deny a series of allegations that I have a tendency to "face-check" potential danger. If that were the case, it would be solely to keep my lancemates in a position of less risk.

Thanks, I'll be sure and ping you back! -Nate Lindsborg, CFRI

[navcommrelay]

Wrath

/////Transmission Start///// CFRI OPSCOM N. LINDSBORG TO ALL OPERATION TOUCHDOWN SLDF AND ALLIED ELEMENTS: At 1526 hours local standard time, CFRI Angel Squadron performed an escort operation alongside a DropShip from @seafoxmathias delivering 'Mechs to in-field forces of @harwood-pmc-official. During this operation, COMSCAN detected a spike in ambient heat bearing southwest of the operational zone, and directed Angel Squadron on a pass-by course to check the area... Captain Molly Sanders was the wing lead of Angel Squadron. Had been for the better part of a decade, now- ever since Captain Raiken had that unfortunate engine failure. Captain Sanders was confident, assured, and in control- especially in the cockpit of her Sparrow, Angel-1.

Right now, though, she was none of those things.

The cockpit was alive with panic alarms- proximity warning for incoming Long Range Missiles, radar lock warnings, damage control warnings, and- most notably- the piercing whistle signifying her canopy had been breached by whatever the hell had taken potshots at Angel Squadron as they breached the horizon over the main road. Cursing wildly, she peered through the spiderwebbed ferroglass in front, trying desperately to assess whether her flight path was stable. The damage was impact- no molten airframe, no scorching heat filtering in through the damaged cockpit meant whatever had hit her wasn't an energy weapon. A world-shaking BOOM rocked the Sparrow in midair, sending the craft arcing through the sky away from the rest of the formation as Angel-6's bomb load detonated midair. The cloud of smoke and ash provided a reference point, and as she frantically righted the crippled aircraft, a blurry and fractured silhouette was visible below. Angel-4, unable to avoid both the debris from the bomber and the incoming autocannon fire, started coming apart piecemeal, blasts tearing great rents through the light armor of the fighter before it simply broke in two. A momentary flash of light, heat- not only visible but tactile even at this distance- lit the world like a thousand fireworks as an impossibly bright beam lanced up from below and simply erased Angel-2 and Angel-3. No explosion, no flame, just a streak of light and two puffs of smoke. Careening towards the ground, Molly frantically grabbed for the canopy breakaway lever, hauling with all her might, before the seals gave and the wind tore the structure from her aircraft. Blinking against afterimages, she banked, ejecting chaff, flares, and her reserve fuel tanks, desperate to outrun the incoming missiles. A last-minute ping from her craft's sensors sent a brief, surface-level analysis of the strange structures below that had turned her squad into a memory, before she joined them in oblivion. PAN PAN PAN EMERGENCY BROADCAST ANGEL-1 TAC ASSESSMENT: Manufacturer: Unknown Production Year: Unknown Model ID Beacon: JHA-000 Jericho Class: Superheavy 'Mech Type: Word of Blake Drone Hex-Mech Error: 'Mech size exceeds integer bounding parameters. Override. Mass: 250 Tons Chassis: Reinforced Structure Armor: Improved Ferro-Lamellor Engine: UNKNOWN Heat Sinks: UNKNOWN Speed: UNKNOWN Armament: 1x Experimental Extra-Light Naval Subcapital Laser 2x Gauss Rifle 2x Extended-Range LRM-20 6x LBX Autocannon-10 6x Ultra Autocannon-2 12x Micro Pulse Laser 6x Variable-Speed Medium Pulse Laser 6x Laser Anti-Missile System Improved C3 Computer Beagle Active Probe ARCHANGEL Advanced ECM Suite WARNING: Multiple units detected. WARNING: Accompanying elements detected. Error: Transmission offline. Get ready, everyone. /////END TRANSMISSION/////

[is-the-battlemech-cool-or-not]

BATTLETECH RP MUSE/OC ASK GAME!!!

🟢 To what faction do you belong?

🔵 What factions (that you do not belong to) do you respect? Why?

🔴 What factions (that you do not belong to) do you disrespect? Why?

🟠 Is there an extinct faction you wish to see brought back in some form? Why?

🟡 Where do you currently live (nation/region/planet)? Have you lived elsewhere?

🟣 What are your top 3 favorite planets you have visited, if you have visited multiple worlds?

⚪ What was the first vehicle (BattleMech, Battle Armor, AeroSpace Fighter, combat vehicle, etc) that you piloted?

💛 What do you currently pilot?

💚 What do techs usually complain about with your piloting?

💙 What is a different kind/class of vehicle, 'Mech, or AeroSpace unit you would like to test, or simply would desire to get good at using?

♥️ Do you have a preference for ballistic, energy, missile, or other (e.g. melee/EMP/EW) weapons?

🎖️Have you been awarded any medals or commendations, and if so, what were they awarded for?

💳 If you are/were a mercenary, who is/was your most and least favorite client?

💰What was your dumbest and/or smartest purchase?

🐺 Is there an animal that you keep as a pet? Or an animal you might want as a pet?

🔮 For Clan characters, what do you think of the Inner Sphere, in whole or in part?

🌼 For Inner Sphere characters, what do you think of the Clans, in whole or in part?

✨ For Inner Sphere characters, are you a noble or a commoner?

👑 For Inner Sphere nobles, what are your titles and holdings?

🎱 For Inner Sphere commoners, what do you think of nobility and the neo-feudal system?

🌺 For Clan characters, to what caste do you belong?

🏆 For Clan characters, have you won a Bloodname? If so, what is it?

⛓️ For Clan characters, have you taken any bondsmen/women? Have you freed them or do they remain bonded?

🔫 If you can fight in non-vehicular combat, what weapons do you favor?

🤖 Do you have any cybernetic implants?

📚 Is there a particular historical event that resonates with you? Are you a fan of any famous individuals from the past?

🛸 Is there a "canon rumor" theory (e.g. hyperspace weirdness, aliens, Phantom 'Mech Ability, time travel, alternate universes, the Lost Cameron) that you believe in? Or perhaps have experienced?

(OOC: Well, everyone, here it is! A Battletech specific ask game for BT muses/OCs! Have fun everybody, and if you think of any extra questions I should add, let me know!)

Tagging @starcolonelkatrinamoon @starcommanderhannahlewis @house-steiner-stays-winning @harwood-pmc-official @the-tired-merc @karriethemechtech @scorpians-sting @callsignpuppy

Let's get this spread out, and start asking!

[navcommrelay]

Hell with it, I should stop procrastinating character development and just crowd source it instead.

[navcommrelay]

Juno 2-1

Third Deployment: Delayed, 1500 Hours (Refueling 3/4 DropShips)

Deployed:SWMC Alpha Lance 

SWMC Bravo Lance 

CFRI 2C Alpha Lance 

CFRI 1C Beta Lance 

Angel Company 5 + 6 (RTB / DropShip Pickup)

CFRI 2C CMD/Logi Unit

CFRI 1C Alpha Mechanized 

Dropship at FOB 

SWMC Support and Logistics crew

DropShip Deployment:

CFRI 1C Gamma Lance

Objectives: SWMC Alpha 1-3 SWMC Bravo 2-5 SWMC Support CFRI 2C/L CFRI 1A, 2A, 1B Designated "HOMESTEAD": Entrench and defend FOB while waiting on repairs. CFRI 1C-Gamma SWMC Alpha 4 SWMC Bravo 1 Designated "SENATE": Move to assist Sword. Destroy sites Hillman and Morris.

After-Action Report:

SWMC Support and Logistics assisted in CFRI 2C deployment and entrenchment of HQ. All garrisoned SWMC elements began rounds of repairs to return them to combat ready. Bravo 5 received a new ‘mech transferred from Smoke Jaguar reserve. Bravo 5 then disbanded from SWMC Bravo Lance to assist Omaha LZ, considered struck from SWMC roster.

CFRI 1-C Gamma with SWMC Bravo 1 and Alpha 4, designated as combined force “SENATE,” moved Southwest to assist Canopian and Aurigan forces. SENATE was able to break a stalemate at Hillman with a flanking maneuver. Blakist forces at the site broke and surrendered after a united push that followed. SWMC Bravo 1 sustained moderate damage. CRFI 1-Gamma-1 suffered damage to all RA Actuators after melee engagement. Requests forwarded to SLDF logistics for more ARAD LRM ammunition.

Engaged and Destroyed: 3x Rusalka-class Medium Aerospace Fighter 3x WFT-B Wolf Trap  1x AV1-O Avatar-E Heavy OmniMech 2x Prowler (WoB) Combat Vehicle 1x PAT-008 Puma-class Assault Tank 5x WoB Rifle Infantry  Damage and Losses: SWMC Bravo 1 - Most armor stripped (no internal damage, pilot injury (triaged) CFRI 1-Gamma-1: All RA Actuators damaged. Light armor damage. 

SENATE COMBAT COMMS EXCERPT: CI/NL: “SENATE elements, orbital scan shows friendlies only.” CI1G1: “Copy, OPSCOM. Weapons up. We’ll wrap up here.” (Channel Switch Clicks) CI1G1: “WE GOT ‘EM ALL, BOYS!”(Multiple cheers, shouting) CI1G1: “Alright, alright, settle down. Here’s the plan.” CI1G1: “We get to babysit SWORD until Logi pulls up-” (Angry shouting, complaints) CI1G1: “CAN IT! We’re holding for Logi for the salvage.” CI1G2: “Are we getting a cut of salvage pay for our kills?” CI1G1: “Per the Commander’s orders, yes. This time.” (Cheering resumes.) [EXCERPT ENDS]