Please Stop Traumatizing the Infantry

You know, there are always people asking “why not just field 40 Savannah Masters?” After all, why not? They’re cheap, hit hard for their speed and price tag, and can outpace a Firemoth.

Well, having looked into it myself, the reason is simple: It’s hard to find 40 people suicidal enough to drive those Savannah Masters. And even if you do find 40 people with a death wish, there then comes the issue of training those 40 people to drive hovercraft that zoom around at over 200 kph while also aiming and firing the laser, all without crashing into a brick wall or a mech’s foot. Without proper training, the Savannah Masters’ pilots are either going to total their vehicle before it can get a shot off, or they’ll sit still to line up a shot and get themselves totaled because their armor is 95% speed. Ultimately, if you have the people willing to deploy in 40 Savannah Masters, you’d usually be better off sending them out in 13 Hetzers.

The real kicker though is that I know there are cultures that produce warriors with the dedication, lack of survival instinct, and skill to effectively deploy them in 40 Savannah Masters; only problem is that most of those cultures historically produce people who see driving combat vehicles as a grave insult to their personal honor.

-Cia

You should recruit from Clan Hell's Horses then.

- Melissa

You want to take defensive contracts in border systems around their territory and wait for a Mad Stampede.

Once they are on the ground they are going to scatter. This is when you mobilize. Mobilize but nor deploy.

It's once you can extrapolate a general direction of trial you start to deploy. Common sense would suggest picking off stragglers but that doesn't earn respect.

So you are going to start with the front-runners and work your way back. You will want motive kills. Take surrenders. Claim the prisoners as Bondsmen.

Congratulations. You have crew for your Savannah Masters. Just be warned. If it can move, Hells Horses will race it.

Just do not place too much money on them. It will piss off the locals and you do not want that.

This has been "How to crew your Combat Vehicles" by Star Colonel Jehan MacKenzie. Tune in next time for "Why footballers make the best Elementals, and the converse."

Would designating or “bidding” sacrificial Hetzers be useful in reducing the damages caused by the races, or would that just result in them hot-rodding the Hetzers?

-Cia

Wait what am I saying, hot-rodded Hetzers would probably be more efficient and reliable than one new off the assembly line; either way, think I know where the CA will be heading next after the current operation’s over.

-Cia

You know, there are always people asking “why not just field 40 Savannah Masters?” After all, why not? They’re cheap, hit hard for their speed and price tag, and can outpace a Firemoth.

Well, having looked into it myself, the reason is simple: It’s hard to find 40 people suicidal enough to drive those Savannah Masters. And even if you do find 40 people with a death wish, there then comes the issue of training those 40 people to drive hovercraft that zoom around at over 200 kph while also aiming and firing the laser, all without crashing into a brick wall or a mech’s foot. Without proper training, the Savannah Masters’ pilots are either going to total their vehicle before it can get a shot off, or they’ll sit still to line up a shot and get themselves totaled because their armor is 95% speed. Ultimately, if you have the people willing to deploy in 40 Savannah Masters, you’d usually be better off sending them out in 13 Hetzers.

The real kicker though is that I know there are cultures that produce warriors with the dedication, lack of survival instinct, and skill to effectively deploy them in 40 Savannah Masters; only problem is that most of those cultures historically produce people who see driving combat vehicles as a grave insult to their personal honor.

-Cia

You should recruit from Clan Hell's Horses then.

- Melissa

You want to take defensive contracts in border systems around their territory and wait for a Mad Stampede.

Once they are on the ground they are going to scatter. This is when you mobilize. Mobilize but nor deploy.

It's once you can extrapolate a general direction of trial you start to deploy. Common sense would suggest picking off stragglers but that doesn't earn respect.

So you are going to start with the front-runners and work your way back. You will want motive kills. Take surrenders. Claim the prisoners as Bondsmen.

Congratulations. You have crew for your Savannah Masters. Just be warned. If it can move, Hells Horses will race it.

Just do not place too much money on them. It will piss off the locals and you do not want that.

This has been "How to crew your Combat Vehicles" by Star Colonel Jehan MacKenzie. Tune in next time for "Why footballers make the best Elementals, and the converse."

Would designating or “bidding” sacrificial Hetzers be useful in reducing the damages caused by the races, or would that just result in them hot-rodding the Hetzers?

-Cia

Clarissa doesn't make these decisions. As much as she would like to have the best of the best watching her she does not control the Star League's coffers. Unfortunately. "I trust your expertise in this. I'm no infantry commander. In fact my direct superior is an Elemental, so I've never even made a suggestion to them on the field."

She spreads her hands in a placating gesture. "I can say that for every anti-mech missile system you capture I will provide your unit with five self heating arctic parkas in the color of your choosing. Provided we take the port instact so my supply dropship can land, of course."

@the-clawtake

"Send the elites even if you do not insist." Jehan crunches on his fried meat.

"Like I said. The SLDF is footing the bill, and the dropport is a priority. Unless they have recieved a higher priority tasking, they are more than welcome." He gives a wry grin.

"Anyway. The more backup the better. I want to come out of at least one engagement on this operation less concussed than I went into it."

@khanhannahlewis

Isidora nods.

"We can use any numbers over the enemy we can get"

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

"Then it is decided," Astrid says to Cia. "The Elites will be contracted. I will pay for them out of my own pocket, if the SLDF will not - though I doubt, after their performance during the Battle of Coen City, that Melissa will object to paying for them."

She is about to say something else, but the chime from her phone interrupts her thoughts. She peers at the screen and scoffs, looking to Jehan.

"It seems you have a surprise waiting for you in the Mechbay... someone left my sibkin Xerxes unsupervised, with access to your Kodiak, and possibly an energy drink of some kind..."

@combined-arms-merc-groups

Cia nods to Broklaw, who quickly walks out of the room while making a call of his own.

“Hey, Jen! Need you to start prepping all the remaining Battle Armor units for transfer…”

As Broklaw’s voice fades, Cia gives Astrid a confused look.

“So I haven’t had much time to keep up to tabs on who is in the Op, so if you wouldn’t mind me asking, who’s Xerxes and why’s him getting access to a Kodiak something worth noting?”

@clarissaexplainsbatchall

"I have some rather useful pillows I could sell you, Star Colonel. We could glue them to your neurohelm," Clarissa says with a smile. She's finished off her fruit now and seems satisfied with that for someone who claims not to have eaten all day.

"Though I do fear what the Wolves might say about a soft headed Bear. Crash foam perhaps?"

@the-clawtake

"I shall take my chances, I think." He pauses.

"Xerxes... is he the Star Adder Totem Warrior? Spending his time with the Blood Spirits? When he is not, apparently. Altering his allies mechs without permission?"

@khanhannahlewis

"Astrid's brother, yeah."

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

"Aff, my sibkin," Astrid chuckles. "He enjoys tinkering with 'Mechs. I suppose he had gotten used to the environment of the Fusiliers, where he had practical free reign of the 'Mechbay - though he does usually ask permission. I will speak to him. Perhaps he felt you should have the refit before the next operation commenced."

"That said," she continues, still speaking to Jehan, "I have no doubt you will be intrigued by the refit. He has managed to add TSM, refitted the decorative claws into the legitimate articles, and added quite a bit of extra armor to the head, plus quite the suite of electronic and mechanical upgrades."

She turns to Cia. "I'm sure he could do similarly intriguing upgrades to your vehicles. Though I will get him to ask first in the event he becomes intrigued."

@combined-arms-merc-groups

Cia is silent for a moment, contemplating the possibility of Xerxes being given permission to mess with her tanks.

“…I wouldn’t be adverse to some free upgrades to my vehicles, especially if it’s to add high-grade tech. He better not mess with the transport scorpions’ ability to move troops though; at least not without supplying replacements! Already on thin terms with enough of my techs thanks to the Specials as it stands…”

@clarissaexplainsbatchall

Clarissa doesn't make these decisions. As much as she would like to have the best of the best watching her she does not control the Star League's coffers. Unfortunately. "I trust your expertise in this. I'm no infantry commander. In fact my direct superior is an Elemental, so I've never even made a suggestion to them on the field."

She spreads her hands in a placating gesture. "I can say that for every anti-mech missile system you capture I will provide your unit with five self heating arctic parkas in the color of your choosing. Provided we take the port instact so my supply dropship can land, of course."

@the-clawtake

"Send the elites even if you do not insist." Jehan crunches on his fried meat.

"Like I said. The SLDF is footing the bill, and the dropport is a priority. Unless they have recieved a higher priority tasking, they are more than welcome." He gives a wry grin.

"Anyway. The more backup the better. I want to come out of at least one engagement on this operation less concussed than I went into it."

@khanhannahlewis

Isidora nods.

"We can use any numbers over the enemy we can get"

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

"Then it is decided," Astrid says to Cia. "The Elites will be contracted. I will pay for them out of my own pocket, if the SLDF will not - though I doubt, after their performance during the Battle of Coen City, that Melissa will object to paying for them."

She is about to say something else, but the chime from her phone interrupts her thoughts. She peers at the screen and scoffs, looking to Jehan.

"It seems you have a surprise waiting for you in the Mechbay... someone left my sibkin Xerxes unsupervised, with access to your Kodiak, and possibly an energy drink of some kind..."

@combined-arms-merc-groups

Cia nods to Broklaw, who quickly walks out of the room while making a call of his own.

“Hey, Jen! Need you to start prepping all the remaining Battle Armor units for transfer…”

As Broklaw’s voice fades, Cia gives Astrid a confused look.

“So I haven’t had much time to keep up to tabs on who is in the Op, so if you wouldn’t mind me asking, who’s Xerxes and why’s him getting access to a Kodiak something worth noting?”

@clarissaexplainsbatchall

You know, I’ve heard rumors about the “Black Marauder”, but you know what? I bet it’s just that: Rumors. Just some dumbass who got lucky while piloting a new mech.

-Lancer

Update: Had a weird dream last night.

-Lancer

Clarissa doesn't make these decisions. As much as she would like to have the best of the best watching her she does not control the Star League's coffers. Unfortunately. "I trust your expertise in this. I'm no infantry commander. In fact my direct superior is an Elemental, so I've never even made a suggestion to them on the field."

She spreads her hands in a placating gesture. "I can say that for every anti-mech missile system you capture I will provide your unit with five self heating arctic parkas in the color of your choosing. Provided we take the port instact so my supply dropship can land, of course."

@the-clawtake

Jehan puts his mug down on the table. His smile closely resembles that of a wild Ghost Bear that has stumbled across a beached whale at the start of spring.

"We will defer to your best judgement. Cost is no object. After all. The SLDF and Khan Ward are footing the bill."

He stabs a rasher of cured meat with his fork, lifts it.

"And if the Wolves are footing the bill, feel free to take home the bacon."

@khanhannahlewis

"I think focusing on the battle armored forces would probably be a good idea. The fighting will likely be pretty tight and put conventional infantry in danger."

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

"Aff, agreed," Astrid says. "And they will be more survivable against anything heavier they may encounter in the course of their duties."

@combined-arms-merc-groups

Cia looks a little disappointed. “Is that a ‘No’ on the Elites then?” It’s hard for everyone else to tell whether to tell from her expression whether it’s from the lack of charging for the platoon’s services or from her best troops not being given another chance to show their skills off, but the answer likely lies somewhere in between.

@clarissaexplainsbatchall

General. We came almost as soon as we received the orders to gather for a briefing. Paused only long enough to oversee some Admin.

Currently we can field 12 Battlemechs and 4 points of Elementals. I've organised that into one Heavy Striker Star and a reinforced Fire Star. But I would prefer if we were not the tip of the spear for this particular engagement.

That is understandable. Luckily, the 1st Royal Helios has three times your numbers.

They can be the first in. Between Astrid and Isidora's leadership and the skill of their pilots, they are quite capable.

I have called the both of them here, plus Clarissa of Sea Fox. When they arrive, we can begin briefing in earnest.

@khanhannahlewis

@clarissaexplainsbatchall

Jehan moves to take a seat along the wall of Melissa's office, settling down with a groan of relief.

"It is this stock command couch. The one in my old cockpit, I had fashioned the cover myself. It was much more comfortable and tailored to my own specifications." Having excused his stiff gait and generally pained demeanour he leans back to wait for the next arrivals. @khanhannahlewis

As Astrid walks in, so too does Isidora, wearing a short sleeved dress uniform under her winter coat and a simple field cap. A crimson bandana is pinned to her arm and she salutes Melissa and Jehan when she enters.

"Isidora, acting commander of the uh, SLDF aligned local forces, reporting for duty, sirs."

"Bondsman Isidora," Melissa says, nodding with a smile. She looks to Astrid, who shares a look with Melissa, exchanging the smallest of nods.

"Isidora," Astrid says, turning to her bondsman and lover. "May I see your wrist?"

When Isidora presents her mechanical arm, with the triple banded cords upon its delicate-looking but deceptively strong wrist, Astrid holds it lightly, pulling her massive, wicked-looking combat knife from its sheath at her hip.

"You and your fellows have proved your skill at arms, and adapted to the Clan ways of battle with impressive ease. Thus, I now cut the first cord."

Carefully, she slips the tip of the blade between the cords, and cuts the black cord, which falls away to the floor.

"Only two remain. Loyalty and integrity. These are more difficult to attain, but I know you well. You will do so in short order," she smiles.

Melissa smiles as well. "Congratulations, Bondsman Isidora. I have a somewhat similar matter to attend to with you now. Please step forward."

When Isidora does so, Astrid beaming with pride, Melissa picks up a small box on the table behind her.

"You have proven yourself in battle, and decided to formally join the SLDF. This is admirable; you have set an example for other Word forces to follow. At the same time, an SLDF unit cannot be commanded by someone without rank. Thus, as of now," she says, opening the box to reveal a double set of the emerald green bars-and-globe insignia of an SLDF Major. She removes the two insignia from the box, and slowly pins them, one at a time, to the collar of Isidora's uniform. As she does so, she solemnly recites an order.

"By the authority vested in me as Commanding General of the Star League Defense Force, I hereby authorize the immediate promotion of Isidora Fides Wulfhilda to the SLDF rank of Major, on this day October 7, 3153. The Major is hereby directed to take formal command of the 1st Royal Helios BattleMech Regiment, effective this day October 7, 3153."

She steps back, and nods, saluting Isidora, before smiling and offering her hand to shake.

"Congratulations, Major Isidora."

@the-clawtake

"And let me be the first outside your direct chain of command to offer congratulations. For both achievements." Jehan waves from where he is seated. "Greetings, Astrid, Isidora. I trust your travels were no harder than mine?"

@khanhannahlewis

Clarissa enters the room in her Tiburon Khanate dress uniform, all high boots and epaulettes, hands clasped behind her back, shoulders back, glasses on. Her near white hair is tied back into a tight bun at the nape of her neck. "Star Commander Clarissa reporting."

Her eyes, grey and sightless, make contact with nothing as she scans the room. "It seems that I am in esteemed company. I look forward to working with you."

Isidora nods to the newcomer.

"Ah, welcome. Major Isidora."

She extends her metal hand in greeting.

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

Melissa busies herself setting up the holographic table while the others go through their introductions.

@clarissaexplainsbatchall

Clarissa was the lowest ranked person in the room, but she definitely didn't act like it. She had a way of standing that exuded an approachable authority and took Isidora's metal hand. Not the only person in the room with augmetics it aeemed, "A pleasure, Major."

Jehan throws a salute, from where he is sat by the wall.

"Greetings, Star Commander. I beg surkai for not standing. I am under orders to stay off my feet as much as possible." He gives a conspiratorial grin.

"Actually, I believe the precise words were 'if you do not take it easy and come back in one piece this time, we are chaining you to a gurney until the operation is over.' I do not want to test them."

@khanhannahlewis

"Well... I am glad you are getting your rest then?"

Isidora turns to the newly arrived Diamond Shark.

"The pleasure is all mine, Star Commander."

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

"Good, we are all here. Now, onto the briefing then. The forces you all command are now assigned to assault the civilian manufacturing center and dropport, in the mountains east of the former LZ Juno. The manufacturing complex serves a dual military and civilian purpose, being able to refit and repair significant numbers of BattleMechs at any given time. It is a key transport hub as well, being the primary landing and support site for DropShips in our current AO."

Melissa looks to the assembled group.

"You are to capture it. The Word has significant forces there to defend it, but together you bring over 50 'Mechs."

Melissa adjusts the holotank to show a birds eye view of the sprawling industrial complex and the DropPort growing off of it like an extra limb.

"See for yourselves."

@clarissaexplainsbatchall

"I am sure, sir, that should you require it I will be able to procure for you a hospital bed with six wheel drive and a modular turret. Then everyone would be happy." Clarissa gives the ghost of a smile, hinting that perhaps that was a joke, but the rest of her face seems to indicate that she's being dead serious.

"And as we discussed before we shall be attempting to take the facility with minimal collateral damage, aff? The spaceport especially?"

@the-clawtake

Jehan drags himself back to his feet and makes his way over to the holotank, to examine the schematic; It is not his first review of their assigned area of operations, but it is always worth checking again.

He looks up after a moment, and glance between his fellow Warriors.

"Aff. As I was informing the Commanding General, my forces are reduced to a dozen Battlemechs and 4 points of Elementals. We are organised as a heavy Battle Star and a reinforced Fire Star, and I recommend we follow the initial wave. None of my effectives are fighting at full efficiency."

He considers the map for another moment.

"Most of our units use Advanced Tactical Missiles, and the SLDF was kind enough to refit us with the improved version. I recommend my Warriors load with mostly Extended Range munitions and provide fire support, before moving in on the dropport itself, once the defenders are engaged. Thoughts?"

@khanhannahlewis

"Of course, my forces will provide the bulk of the assault, we can fit omni-pods with jump jets and use the landing baffles as cover, a bounding attack. moving from cover to cover."

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

"A good start to a strategy. ISR has identified the following enemy forces as located on-site," says Melissa, adjusting the holotank, which begins populating the 3D display with tiny 3D models of various Blakist units.

"At least four Level IIs of 'Mechs, none of special note - no Celestials or other unique designs. What there are a significant number of are combat vehicles, turrets, infantry, and battle armor. Considering the nature of the location, I would suspect at least some of these 'Mechs are being shipped elsewhere and only used for temporary security. I doubt their pilots are especially skilled. But the urban confines will make them more dangerous than they would otherwise be."

@clarissaexplainsbatchall

"Mmm..." Clarissa isn't looking at the enemy forces or her own, just the battle map itself. "They may try to blow the spaceport to prevent us from taking it. Fuel tanks and munitions stored there could be easily ignited and cause a lot of damage." She gestures, "My Star could make for it immediately to protect it. Give us a transport or two with techs and infantry who could shut down fuel pumping capability and capture any landed craft there and get them clear. An ounce of prevention, as they say."

@the-clawtake

Jehan nods, humming thoughtfully.

"Your Star is composed of omni-mechs, quiaff? We could detach my Elementals to your command. They would be well suited to seizing landed craft, and can provide security to any technicians."

He pauses a moment, strokes his beard, and then.

"Perhaps a variation on this plan. The Technicians going in in the first wave exposes them to significant risk. My thinking is, you go in with the Elementals, secure any downed craft and drive off any battlemechs. Then, once you give the go-ahead, my forces can escort the techs in and provide security. Freeing your Star to rejoin the fight while we provided fire support from the fortified position."

@khanhannahlewis

"My forces could attack from a different angle, draw most of the enemies away from your objectives."

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

"Ideally from the opposite side of the area," Melissa says. "To pull the enemy as far apart as possible. That can open up a hole in the middle, which you can use to cut their lines in half."

"A sensible plan," Astrid says. "Luckily, our unit contains a wide spread of configurations, which will make it easier to fill any holes in the line at whatever place they appear."

@clarissaexplainsbatchall

Clarissa lowers her head to Jehan, "I apologize, but Freebirth units are not always accorded the best equipment. Only three of our five 'Mechs are omnimechs, my own not included. We would not be able to transport a full star of Elementals ourselves, though I do possess a fast transport and crew that could bring another point. If you have one as well that could sufiice."

@the-clawtake

Jehan shakes his head ruefully.

"I remember hoping that Ian Hawker's prejudices would die with him." He shoots a glance between Astrid and Melissa, quite certain they would agree with him.

"As it happens, I only have four points of Elementals, not quite a full star. The fifth point have been... Possessioned. By the Blood Spirits." He rubs his ribs with a pained smile.

"But I think we have a plan." He pans his gaze around the briefing room, gauging the response to his statement.

@khanhannahlewis

"Sounds good from my perspective."

"I agree. It is a solid plan. I now leave it to the three of you to coordinate the exact details. If you require any additional assets, speak to me and I will get them assigned as fast as I can."

"Good luck to you all."

@clarissaexplainsbatchall

Clarissa smiles and nods, "Thank you, General. I shall write up a list of resources we might require from you after we have determined them." This list will absolutely be a wish list to Santa Claus for all the toys in the world. It may include warship orbital support and multiple cargo dropships full of IndustrialMech loaders. It will almost certainly be near completely denied. This will not stop her from doing so. Clan Sea Fox long ago learned the harsh consequences of underbidding. Star Commander Clarissa believes in asking for everything you could possibly want and then negotiating down to get more than you expected. @the-clawtake

"We simply require resupply of munitions and rations at this time, Commanding General. I believe my XO is submitting our requirements to Quartermasters as we speak."

Jehans smile is fond, and he snaps a salute before turning to his fellow command staff and continuing.

"Shall we reconvene somewhere with comfortable seating, food, and caffeine?"

@khanhannahlewis

"I wouldn't be opposed to that, personally."

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

"Very well. When you are ready, submit your finalized plans to me."

@clarissaexplainsbatchall

"Food and caffeine sound lovely, Star Colonel. Thank you for the suggestion." Clarissa stretches, arms going up overhead with a small groan. See? She can be more casual as well. "I've been busy handling orders to transfer to the Noblise so I haven't had a chance to eat in twelve hours."

@the-clawtake

"Well. That is not any good. You need to eat." He smiles at the Sea Fox.

"I read some good advice in a very old book, once. The villain says to his liege 'get some rest. If you have not your health, you have not got anything.' It is advice I like to keep in mind." He chuckles as he starts towards the door with a nod to Melissa.

"While steadfastly ignoring it, of course."

@khanhannahlewis

"You really should take better care of yourself, sir."

Melissa snorts amusedly at Jehan, and softly shakes her head.

"One of these days, Jehan."

Astrid chuckles. "I will get him to get some actual rest ... eventually. Come, let us go. Melissa has quite a bit to do."

She leads the group out of the command center and out into the cold, where it's snowing softly, the clouds still present as they've been for days.

@clarissaexplainsbatchall

"Mmm," Clarissa says to Jehan with the slightest upturn of her lips. "That somehow seems incredibly threatening coming from a villain to his liege. Like if I close my eyes I might not have a chance to open them again. If you were planning on killing me please," she bows her head. "A circle of equals. I could never rest in peace knowing my killer might have risked dishonor in doing away with me. Let my death be more useful to you. A trial of possession over my makeup secrets perhaps. I have several secret techniques for hiding bags under the eyes."

@the-clawtake

"I frown on the slaying of allies. Also I suspect if I attempt to enter a third Circle of Equals any time soon, I will be knocked down and sat on." He shoots Astrid a wry grin, and then looks both ways down the corridor

"Now where would we find an Officers Mess. Last time I was here I dined with the Jaguars."

@khanhannahlewis

"It's just over here a ways."

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

"You are correct, Jehan. Though I do not exactly how effective that will be as a punishment, sitting on you would at least keep you in place long enough for the medtechs to put you under," Astrid chuckles, clearly only somewhat joking. "But these days, mostly I sit on Isidora," she teases the newly-minted Major with a knowing but loving smirk.

"Discussion of coupling aside," she says, poking at the tablet in her hands, which has just chimed softly, "I have just receieved the latest reconnaissance data of the DropPort from Melissa. Let us see ... We have satellite hyperspectral and magscan images, aerial reconnaissance thermal photos, and video and audio surveillance from the Aurigan's reconnaissance platoon. Sending you all the complied data... Now."

A small chorus of bleeps and chimes ring out as the data packet makes its way to the others personal devices.

@clarissaexplainsbatchall

"Oh yes, the Jaguars are back, aren't they?" Clarissa seems much more interested in that topic than any discussions of coupling. The veneer of professionalism isn't entirely gone, apparently. "Curious turn of events, that. It seems we live in an age of undeath where those we thought long past just keep popping up."

She pokes at her dataslate several times, scanning over the intel. "Apologies, but I am in the logistics department more than intelligence. As soon as someone can tell me what this all means I'll be able to make some use of it, I'm sure. But as of now, well..." A shrug, "Я не знаю."

@the-clawtake

"Oh, we can point out the important details for you." Jehan starts in the direction Isidora pointed out. "And discuss them over breakfast."

"And aff, they are. I find it reassuring. It is my understanding that Khan Ward intends to restore the full twenty Clans that Nikolas envisioned. Hopefully he also decides to involve the Spheroid polities in his new Star League."

@khanhannahlewis

As the data packet comes in, Isidora mouths something wordlessly and her cybereyes unfocus and begin to dart around, getting an early start on going over the intel.

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

Astrid chuckles. "Aff, and the ilKhan intends to create new Clans, both to fill the void of those that were lost, and to bolster our numbers so the Star League can better defend itself."

Soon the group finds the officer's mess - unlike the tents set up for the enlisted soldiers, the officer's messes - for there are several spread throughout the FOB - are fully prefabricated buildings, their modular endo-steel and plasboard construction lightweight and sturdy enough to be deployed on many worlds. The integrated central HVAC system is of great comfort as well.

The scents from inside are delicious enough to snap even Isidora out of her data-flooded reverie. The smells of fruit, spices, cooking meat and more waft out from the door as Astrid opens in to let the others in. The SLDF clearly was sparing no expense, even on the more common soldiers.

@clarissaexplainsbatchall

"More Clans? I see." Despite the pleasant smile it's apparent that Clarissa has some opinions about the First Lord's vision for a new humanity. She doesn't seem keen to share them though as instead she immediately goes for several fruits and a cup of the darkest coffee she can find.

@the-clawtake

Jehan also fills a tray, although he leans heavily towards the "Fried starch and sausage" school of breakfast food with his coffee. Glancing about the room, he makes his way to a corner table that seems empty, and sets himself down.

He pulls his dataslate out of his coat pocket and lays it in the center of the table, keying up the topographical map, and waits for the others to join him.

@khanhannahlewis

Isidora sits down with her food.

"Looking over the data I think the planned approach is still the best path forward."

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

"Have you found any potential bottlenecks or flaws in the plan?" Astrid asks her, sitting down with her own plate of food, pulling out her tablet and opening to the hyperspectral recon image analysis.

"I am concerned with the multitude of warehouses. We cannot see inside them. They will make for extremely good conditions for infantry ambushes. And we know the Blakists have those Rapture anti-mech missile launchers - which I do not fancy facing in such close quarters. A quad-charge 180mm depleted-uranium HEAT warhead will do quite the number on a BattleMech at short range."

@clarissaexplainsbatchall

"Well we can't just burn the warehouses down before we get there." Clarissa shrugs. "That would negate half the reason for taking the area in the first place. The Elementals can handle security over the warehouses, can't they?"

She spears a piece of fruit with a fork, "There's an assumption of risk involved in all of this. I wouldn't know how to make sure the warehouses aren't full of ambushers except to hope they don't know exactly when we're coming or to have people inside when we go."

With a shrug she sighs, "Again, I am logistics."

@the-clawtake

"Yes, Elementals can handle that sort of security. Also Battlemechs equipped with an active probe." Jehan chews thoughtfully on a strip of cured and fried meat.

"I imagine the Blakists will wish to take care around the contents of the warehouses themselves. I am quite certain that I would not wish to report to my Commander that I had held a position and yet destroyed everything that made the position worth holding."

@khanhannahlewis

"I wonder if we could not get additional infantry and battle armor support from unassigned units? I personally don't have any battle armor in my force."

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

Astrid considered Isidora's question, making a thoughtful noise, deep and rumbling. After a few seconds, she spoke.

"I know of a few avenues we could approach that problem from. The Aurigans and Canopians both have infantry components we could draw from. The Fusiliers have both a cluster's worth of light power armored infantry and a cluster's worth of Elementals. There is also the Combined Arms Mercenary Group we could ask for aid, as well as Harwood PMC - both forces have infantry components. None of these commands are presently assigned to an objective, save for the Fusiliers - but Savannah would likely be amenable to splitting her infantry - using the full two clusters on one objective would be overkill."

@clarissaexplainsbatchall

"We still need to make sure the main force is the enemy's primary concern. If we put too many forces on the dropships the main fighting will take place there, which will result in unacceptable collateral damage. The landing pad and loading areas have to be preserved, so a small force moving quickly once the enemy is engaged with the primary assault. A whole cluster of infantry might draw too much attention."

@the-clawtake

"Well looking at this map" Jehan points out a couple of markers on the dataslate, careful not to touch the screen with greasy fingers.

"There are not many structures within the dropport itself. Some fuel bunkers, and a few garages. The infantry can go in with the primary assault, or immediately after. If they have fast transports, then units with Active Probes can direct them to likely trouble spots."

@khanhannahlewis

"I think a whole unit of mechs will be a bigger concern than infantry for them."

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

Astrid considers for a time. "Hmm. You all make good points. I shall call up Commander Trayer, see if she has any insights or suggestions."

She taps a message into her phone and sends it off, requesting that Cia - or someone to represent Cia's Army - meet them at the mess hall.

@combined-arms-merc-groups

Astrid promptly gets a message in response, stating that Cia’s on her way. After a few minutes of the group eating, Cia finally rushes in, with her lieutenant marching alongside her.

“Ah, there you all are - nobody told me this meeting was moved to the mess, so we’ve been a bit lost on where to go. Anyways, down to business; I don’t suppose anyone could enlighten me on what I’ve missed of the planning, could they?”

@clarissaexplainsbatchall

"We are attacking the space port and discussing a small detachment - well, small considering the overall size of the engagement - moving in to capture dropships and cargo warehouses. We need infantry to protect the 'Mechs and clear the warehouses." Clarissa lances a piece of fruit for emphasis.

"We were thinking of using you."

@the-clawtake

"Star Captain Tseng and the First Helios are going to hit the manufacturing district while Clarissa and I will sieze the dropport. While I bring to this engagement sufficient Elemental Points for dropport security, the First Helios is a pure Battlemech formation."

He pauses a minute to take a deep drink of his coffee.

@khanhannahlewis

Isidora nods.

"We're going to need support to clear out the warehouses around our attack zone, where enemy anti-mech teams will likely hide."

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

"So, Cia, are you in?" Astrid smiles. "It will be quite the fight."

@combined-arms-merc-groups

Cia gives the proposal for her company to join a moment of thought before finally responding.

“So long as the pay’s good, sure. Don’t want my guys getting put through a meet grinder, though, so I better not see them get misused or used as fodder.”

Cia pauses another moment for exaggeration before continuing. “If they’re being hired specifically to support mechs against infantry, then I’d suggest the Ripper battlearmors. Twin MGs should do nicely against any ambushers, and they’re all equipped with mag-clamps so the mechs they’re guarding can serve as their transport. The Firestars should also work, but all they’ve got for weapons is one flamer, and their operators are trained more for overheating mechs than cooking infantry, not to mention the fire hazard.

“If you want to bring some more conventional infantry for any reason, there always are the conventional rifle platoons and the anti-mech regulars. If you think they might encounter any mechs or that jump capability would come in handy, then you’ll probably want the regulars over the line platoons, but otherwise the difference against anti-mech ambushes shouldn’t be too noticeable.

“Of course, I’d also recommend bringing Broklaw’s platoon whatever you expect to face, but hiring the Elites comes at a premium price.”

As Cia finishes listing her company’s units and giving her opinions, a slight smirk appears on Broklaw’s face at Cia’s recommendation.

@clarissaexplainsbatchall

The clanners don’t want you to know this, but if you can bribe your mechtechs to add hands the Mad Dog becomes a perfect mech mech for melee.

See the enemy from a distance? Fire the missiles.

Approaching the target? Fire the missiles.

Up close to the target? Punch their face in (and fire the missiles).

You can even use the tonnage freed up from removing the old laser “hands” to strap on a more reasonable amount of armor! (and add more missiles)

- Lancer

There are in fact Mad Dog configurations with hands.

Even better, that saves me the seabills on getting the mechtechs to install them in the first place.

- Lancer

That last drop was a train wreck.

Had to sack some of the Wolfpack’s locusts as a distraction after our dumbass employers failed to inform us that these “Peripheral Pirates” we were after had gotten their hands on some salvaged clantech. i shudder to imagine how much worse it would've gone if I hadn't been able to cap the Timber-Shasa’s cockpit.

-Lancer

T-

Timber-Shasa? What in the name of-

Neg. On second thought, it is probably best not to know.

Trust me, everyone’s better off not knowing.

Currently got the techs trying to untangle the mess that it is, and I’ve already had three periphery-born mechanics threaten to quit if I don’t add trips to Canopus for psychiatric help to their medical plan.

-Lancer

I would like to purpose a battalion idea, I call it "Plague of Egypt" from some of those old terran books, anyways every lance is locust

Its fast, and its cheap

You jest, but there’s a reason I keep the Wolfpack around. A lance of locusts will soften any target up enough for a heavier mech to make to killing blow, all while still being able to escape intact enough to not get you yelled at by the Mechtechs.

Don’t send them in unsupported though… That’s how you lose 4 pilots while giving the enemy 4 locusts.

-Lancer

General. We came almost as soon as we received the orders to gather for a briefing. Paused only long enough to oversee some Admin.

Currently we can field 12 Battlemechs and 4 points of Elementals. I've organised that into one Heavy Striker Star and a reinforced Fire Star. But I would prefer if we were not the tip of the spear for this particular engagement.

That is understandable. Luckily, the 1st Royal Helios has three times your numbers.

They can be the first in. Between Astrid and Isidora's leadership and the skill of their pilots, they are quite capable.

I have called the both of them here, plus Clarissa of Sea Fox. When they arrive, we can begin briefing in earnest.

@khanhannahlewis

@clarissaexplainsbatchall

Jehan moves to take a seat along the wall of Melissa's office, settling down with a groan of relief.

"It is this stock command couch. The one in my old cockpit, I had fashioned the cover myself. It was much more comfortable and tailored to my own specifications." Having excused his stiff gait and generally pained demeanour he leans back to wait for the next arrivals. @khanhannahlewis

As Astrid walks in, so too does Isidora, wearing a short sleeved dress uniform under her winter coat and a simple field cap. A crimson bandana is pinned to her arm and she salutes Melissa and Jehan when she enters.

"Isidora, acting commander of the uh, SLDF aligned local forces, reporting for duty, sirs."

"Bondsman Isidora," Melissa says, nodding with a smile. She looks to Astrid, who shares a look with Melissa, exchanging the smallest of nods.

"Isidora," Astrid says, turning to her bondsman and lover. "May I see your wrist?"

When Isidora presents her mechanical arm, with the triple banded cords upon its delicate-looking but deceptively strong wrist, Astrid holds it lightly, pulling her massive, wicked-looking combat knife from its sheath at her hip.

"You and your fellows have proved your skill at arms, and adapted to the Clan ways of battle with impressive ease. Thus, I now cut the first cord."

Carefully, she slips the tip of the blade between the cords, and cuts the black cord, which falls away to the floor.

"Only two remain. Loyalty and integrity. These are more difficult to attain, but I know you well. You will do so in short order," she smiles.

Melissa smiles as well. "Congratulations, Bondsman Isidora. I have a somewhat similar matter to attend to with you now. Please step forward."

When Isidora does so, Astrid beaming with pride, Melissa picks up a small box on the table behind her.

"You have proven yourself in battle, and decided to formally join the SLDF. This is admirable; you have set an example for other Word forces to follow. At the same time, an SLDF unit cannot be commanded by someone without rank. Thus, as of now," she says, opening the box to reveal a double set of the emerald green bars-and-globe insignia of an SLDF Major. She removes the two insignia from the box, and slowly pins them, one at a time, to the collar of Isidora's uniform. As she does so, she solemnly recites an order.

"By the authority vested in me as Commanding General of the Star League Defense Force, I hereby authorize the immediate promotion of Isidora Fides Wulfhilda to the SLDF rank of Major, on this day October 7, 3153. The Major is hereby directed to take formal command of the 1st Royal Helios BattleMech Regiment, effective this day October 7, 3153."

She steps back, and nods, saluting Isidora, before smiling and offering her hand to shake.

"Congratulations, Major Isidora."

@the-clawtake

"And let me be the first outside your direct chain of command to offer congratulations. For both achievements." Jehan waves from where he is seated. "Greetings, Astrid, Isidora. I trust your travels were no harder than mine?"

@khanhannahlewis

Clarissa enters the room in her Tiburon Khanate dress uniform, all high boots and epaulettes, hands clasped behind her back, shoulders back, glasses on. Her near white hair is tied back into a tight bun at the nape of her neck. "Star Commander Clarissa reporting."

Her eyes, grey and sightless, make contact with nothing as she scans the room. "It seems that I am in esteemed company. I look forward to working with you."

Isidora nods to the newcomer.

"Ah, welcome. Major Isidora."

She extends her metal hand in greeting.

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

Melissa busies herself setting up the holographic table while the others go through their introductions.

@clarissaexplainsbatchall

Clarissa was the lowest ranked person in the room, but she definitely didn't act like it. She had a way of standing that exuded an approachable authority and took Isidora's metal hand. Not the only person in the room with augmetics it aeemed, "A pleasure, Major."

Jehan throws a salute, from where he is sat by the wall.

"Greetings, Star Commander. I beg surkai for not standing. I am under orders to stay off my feet as much as possible." He gives a conspiratorial grin.

"Actually, I believe the precise words were 'if you do not take it easy and come back in one piece this time, we are chaining you to a gurney until the operation is over.' I do not want to test them."

@khanhannahlewis

"Well... I am glad you are getting your rest then?"

Isidora turns to the newly arrived Diamond Shark.

"The pleasure is all mine, Star Commander."

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

"Good, we are all here. Now, onto the briefing then. The forces you all command are now assigned to assault the civilian manufacturing center and dropport, in the mountains east of the former LZ Juno. The manufacturing complex serves a dual military and civilian purpose, being able to refit and repair significant numbers of BattleMechs at any given time. It is a key transport hub as well, being the primary landing and support site for DropShips in our current AO."

Melissa looks to the assembled group.

"You are to capture it. The Word has significant forces there to defend it, but together you bring over 50 'Mechs."

Melissa adjusts the holotank to show a birds eye view of the sprawling industrial complex and the DropPort growing off of it like an extra limb.

"See for yourselves."

@clarissaexplainsbatchall

"I am sure, sir, that should you require it I will be able to procure for you a hospital bed with six wheel drive and a modular turret. Then everyone would be happy." Clarissa gives the ghost of a smile, hinting that perhaps that was a joke, but the rest of her face seems to indicate that she's being dead serious.

"And as we discussed before we shall be attempting to take the facility with minimal collateral damage, aff? The spaceport especially?"

@the-clawtake

Jehan drags himself back to his feet and makes his way over to the holotank, to examine the schematic; It is not his first review of their assigned area of operations, but it is always worth checking again.

He looks up after a moment, and glance between his fellow Warriors.

"Aff. As I was informing the Commanding General, my forces are reduced to a dozen Battlemechs and 4 points of Elementals. We are organised as a heavy Battle Star and a reinforced Fire Star, and I recommend we follow the initial wave. None of my effectives are fighting at full efficiency."

He considers the map for another moment.

"Most of our units use Advanced Tactical Missiles, and the SLDF was kind enough to refit us with the improved version. I recommend my Warriors load with mostly Extended Range munitions and provide fire support, before moving in on the dropport itself, once the defenders are engaged. Thoughts?"

@khanhannahlewis

"Of course, my forces will provide the bulk of the assault, we can fit omni-pods with jump jets and use the landing baffles as cover, a bounding attack. moving from cover to cover."

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

"A good start to a strategy. ISR has identified the following enemy forces as located on-site," says Melissa, adjusting the holotank, which begins populating the 3D display with tiny 3D models of various Blakist units.

"At least four Level IIs of 'Mechs, none of special note - no Celestials or other unique designs. What there are a significant number of are combat vehicles, turrets, infantry, and battle armor. Considering the nature of the location, I would suspect at least some of these 'Mechs are being shipped elsewhere and only used for temporary security. I doubt their pilots are especially skilled. But the urban confines will make them more dangerous than they would otherwise be."

@clarissaexplainsbatchall

"Mmm..." Clarissa isn't looking at the enemy forces or her own, just the battle map itself. "They may try to blow the spaceport to prevent us from taking it. Fuel tanks and munitions stored there could be easily ignited and cause a lot of damage." She gestures, "My Star could make for it immediately to protect it. Give us a transport or two with techs and infantry who could shut down fuel pumping capability and capture any landed craft there and get them clear. An ounce of prevention, as they say."

@the-clawtake

Jehan nods, humming thoughtfully.

"Your Star is composed of omni-mechs, quiaff? We could detach my Elementals to your command. They would be well suited to seizing landed craft, and can provide security to any technicians."

He pauses a moment, strokes his beard, and then.

"Perhaps a variation on this plan. The Technicians going in in the first wave exposes them to significant risk. My thinking is, you go in with the Elementals, secure any downed craft and drive off any battlemechs. Then, once you give the go-ahead, my forces can escort the techs in and provide security. Freeing your Star to rejoin the fight while we provided fire support from the fortified position."

@khanhannahlewis

"My forces could attack from a different angle, draw most of the enemies away from your objectives."

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

"Ideally from the opposite side of the area," Melissa says. "To pull the enemy as far apart as possible. That can open up a hole in the middle, which you can use to cut their lines in half."

"A sensible plan," Astrid says. "Luckily, our unit contains a wide spread of configurations, which will make it easier to fill any holes in the line at whatever place they appear."

@clarissaexplainsbatchall

Clarissa lowers her head to Jehan, "I apologize, but Freebirth units are not always accorded the best equipment. Only three of our five 'Mechs are omnimechs, my own not included. We would not be able to transport a full star of Elementals ourselves, though I do possess a fast transport and crew that could bring another point. If you have one as well that could sufiice."

@the-clawtake

Jehan shakes his head ruefully.

"I remember hoping that Ian Hawker's prejudices would die with him." He shoots a glance between Astrid and Melissa, quite certain they would agree with him.

"As it happens, I only have four points of Elementals, not quite a full star. The fifth point have been... Possessioned. By the Blood Spirits." He rubs his ribs with a pained smile.

"But I think we have a plan." He pans his gaze around the briefing room, gauging the response to his statement.

@khanhannahlewis

"Sounds good from my perspective."

"I agree. It is a solid plan. I now leave it to the three of you to coordinate the exact details. If you require any additional assets, speak to me and I will get them assigned as fast as I can."

"Good luck to you all."

@clarissaexplainsbatchall

Clarissa smiles and nods, "Thank you, General. I shall write up a list of resources we might require from you after we have determined them." This list will absolutely be a wish list to Santa Claus for all the toys in the world. It may include warship orbital support and multiple cargo dropships full of IndustrialMech loaders. It will almost certainly be near completely denied. This will not stop her from doing so. Clan Sea Fox long ago learned the harsh consequences of underbidding. Star Commander Clarissa believes in asking for everything you could possibly want and then negotiating down to get more than you expected. @the-clawtake

"We simply require resupply of munitions and rations at this time, Commanding General. I believe my XO is submitting our requirements to Quartermasters as we speak."

Jehans smile is fond, and he snaps a salute before turning to his fellow command staff and continuing.

"Shall we reconvene somewhere with comfortable seating, food, and caffeine?"

@khanhannahlewis

"I wouldn't be opposed to that, personally."

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

"Very well. When you are ready, submit your finalized plans to me."

@clarissaexplainsbatchall

"Food and caffeine sound lovely, Star Colonel. Thank you for the suggestion." Clarissa stretches, arms going up overhead with a small groan. See? She can be more casual as well. "I've been busy handling orders to transfer to the Noblise so I haven't had a chance to eat in twelve hours."

@the-clawtake

"Well. That is not any good. You need to eat." He smiles at the Sea Fox.

"I read some good advice in a very old book, once. The villain says to his liege 'get some rest. If you have not your health, you have not got anything.' It is advice I like to keep in mind." He chuckles as he starts towards the door with a nod to Melissa.

"While steadfastly ignoring it, of course."

@khanhannahlewis

"You really should take better care of yourself, sir."

Melissa snorts amusedly at Jehan, and softly shakes her head.

"One of these days, Jehan."

Astrid chuckles. "I will get him to get some actual rest ... eventually. Come, let us go. Melissa has quite a bit to do."

She leads the group out of the command center and out into the cold, where it's snowing softly, the clouds still present as they've been for days.

@clarissaexplainsbatchall

"Mmm," Clarissa says to Jehan with the slightest upturn of her lips. "That somehow seems incredibly threatening coming from a villain to his liege. Like if I close my eyes I might not have a chance to open them again. If you were planning on killing me please," she bows her head. "A circle of equals. I could never rest in peace knowing my killer might have risked dishonor in doing away with me. Let my death be more useful to you. A trial of possession over my makeup secrets perhaps. I have several secret techniques for hiding bags under the eyes."

@the-clawtake

"I frown on the slaying of allies. Also I suspect if I attempt to enter a third Circle of Equals any time soon, I will be knocked down and sat on." He shoots Astrid a wry grin, and then looks both ways down the corridor

"Now where would we find an Officers Mess. Last time I was here I dined with the Jaguars."

@khanhannahlewis

"It's just over here a ways."

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

"You are correct, Jehan. Though I do not exactly how effective that will be as a punishment, sitting on you would at least keep you in place long enough for the medtechs to put you under," Astrid chuckles, clearly only somewhat joking. "But these days, mostly I sit on Isidora," she teases the newly-minted Major with a knowing but loving smirk.

"Discussion of coupling aside," she says, poking at the tablet in her hands, which has just chimed softly, "I have just receieved the latest reconnaissance data of the DropPort from Melissa. Let us see ... We have satellite hyperspectral and magscan images, aerial reconnaissance thermal photos, and video and audio surveillance from the Aurigan's reconnaissance platoon. Sending you all the complied data... Now."

A small chorus of bleeps and chimes ring out as the data packet makes its way to the others personal devices.

@clarissaexplainsbatchall

"Oh yes, the Jaguars are back, aren't they?" Clarissa seems much more interested in that topic than any discussions of coupling. The veneer of professionalism isn't entirely gone, apparently. "Curious turn of events, that. It seems we live in an age of undeath where those we thought long past just keep popping up."

She pokes at her dataslate several times, scanning over the intel. "Apologies, but I am in the logistics department more than intelligence. As soon as someone can tell me what this all means I'll be able to make some use of it, I'm sure. But as of now, well..." A shrug, "Я не знаю."

@the-clawtake

"Oh, we can point out the important details for you." Jehan starts in the direction Isidora pointed out. "And discuss them over breakfast."

"And aff, they are. I find it reassuring. It is my understanding that Khan Ward intends to restore the full twenty Clans that Nikolas envisioned. Hopefully he also decides to involve the Spheroid polities in his new Star League."

@khanhannahlewis

As the data packet comes in, Isidora mouths something wordlessly and her cybereyes unfocus and begin to dart around, getting an early start on going over the intel.

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

Astrid chuckles. "Aff, and the ilKhan intends to create new Clans, both to fill the void of those that were lost, and to bolster our numbers so the Star League can better defend itself."

Soon the group finds the officer's mess - unlike the tents set up for the enlisted soldiers, the officer's messes - for there are several spread throughout the FOB - are fully prefabricated buildings, their modular endo-steel and plasboard construction lightweight and sturdy enough to be deployed on many worlds. The integrated central HVAC system is of great comfort as well.

The scents from inside are delicious enough to snap even Isidora out of her data-flooded reverie. The smells of fruit, spices, cooking meat and more waft out from the door as Astrid opens in to let the others in. The SLDF clearly was sparing no expense, even on the more common soldiers.

@clarissaexplainsbatchall

"More Clans? I see." Despite the pleasant smile it's apparent that Clarissa has some opinions about the First Lord's vision for a new humanity. She doesn't seem keen to share them though as instead she immediately goes for several fruits and a cup of the darkest coffee she can find.

@the-clawtake

Jehan also fills a tray, although he leans heavily towards the "Fried starch and sausage" school of breakfast food with his coffee. Glancing about the room, he makes his way to a corner table that seems empty, and sets himself down.

He pulls his dataslate out of his coat pocket and lays it in the center of the table, keying up the topographical map, and waits for the others to join him.

@khanhannahlewis

Isidora sits down with her food.

"Looking over the data I think the planned approach is still the best path forward."

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

"Have you found any potential bottlenecks or flaws in the plan?" Astrid asks her, sitting down with her own plate of food, pulling out her tablet and opening to the hyperspectral recon image analysis.

"I am concerned with the multitude of warehouses. We cannot see inside them. They will make for extremely good conditions for infantry ambushes. And we know the Blakists have those Rapture anti-mech missile launchers - which I do not fancy facing in such close quarters. A quad-charge 180mm depleted-uranium HEAT warhead will do quite the number on a BattleMech at short range."

@clarissaexplainsbatchall

"Well we can't just burn the warehouses down before we get there." Clarissa shrugs. "That would negate half the reason for taking the area in the first place. The Elementals can handle security over the warehouses, can't they?"

She spears a piece of fruit with a fork, "There's an assumption of risk involved in all of this. I wouldn't know how to make sure the warehouses aren't full of ambushers except to hope they don't know exactly when we're coming or to have people inside when we go."

With a shrug she sighs, "Again, I am logistics."

@the-clawtake

"Yes, Elementals can handle that sort of security. Also Battlemechs equipped with an active probe." Jehan chews thoughtfully on a strip of cured and fried meat.

"I imagine the Blakists will wish to take care around the contents of the warehouses themselves. I am quite certain that I would not wish to report to my Commander that I had held a position and yet destroyed everything that made the position worth holding."

@khanhannahlewis

"I wonder if we could not get additional infantry and battle armor support from unassigned units? I personally don't have any battle armor in my force."

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

Astrid considered Isidora's question, making a thoughtful noise, deep and rumbling. After a few seconds, she spoke.

"I know of a few avenues we could approach that problem from. The Aurigans and Canopians both have infantry components we could draw from. The Fusiliers have both a cluster's worth of light power armored infantry and a cluster's worth of Elementals. There is also the Combined Arms Mercenary Group we could ask for aid, as well as Harwood PMC - both forces have infantry components. None of these commands are presently assigned to an objective, save for the Fusiliers - but Savannah would likely be amenable to splitting her infantry - using the full two clusters on one objective would be overkill."

@clarissaexplainsbatchall

"We still need to make sure the main force is the enemy's primary concern. If we put too many forces on the dropships the main fighting will take place there, which will result in unacceptable collateral damage. The landing pad and loading areas have to be preserved, so a small force moving quickly once the enemy is engaged with the primary assault. A whole cluster of infantry might draw too much attention."

@the-clawtake

"Well looking at this map" Jehan points out a couple of markers on the dataslate, careful not to touch the screen with greasy fingers.

"There are not many structures within the dropport itself. Some fuel bunkers, and a few garages. The infantry can go in with the primary assault, or immediately after. If they have fast transports, then units with Active Probes can direct them to likely trouble spots."

@khanhannahlewis

"I think a whole unit of mechs will be a bigger concern than infantry for them."

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

Astrid considers for a time. "Hmm. You all make good points. I shall call up Commander Trayer, see if she has any insights or suggestions."

She taps a message into her phone and sends it off, requesting that Cia - or someone to represent Cia's Army - meet them at the mess hall.

@combined-arms-merc-groups

Astrid promptly gets a message in response, stating that Cia’s on her way. After a few minutes of the group eating, Cia finally rushes in, with her lieutenant marching alongside her.

“Ah, there you all are - nobody told me this meeting was moved to the mess, so we’ve been a bit lost on where to go. Anyways, down to business; I don’t suppose anyone could enlighten me on what I’ve missed of the planning, could they?”

@clarissaexplainsbatchall

Send “Rumor has it...” followed up by a rumor about my muse!