Month: September 2025

The Cottage landing field

1230 hours 05

 Star Commander Miriam accepted Governor Tinney’s offer of a ride north to speak with Duncan. Remembering her old friend’s habit of putting a twist on things, his notification of her being ready early was no joke. “Be at the field by 0545 local… with whomever is going with you” he had said. “I strongly suggest any weapons be slung secure- While I know this is semi-diplomatic trip in nature, not everyone is so confident, Quaiff?”

She took her command point of twenty one commandos with her. Half of them were Abtakha, the clan term for those from outside of the clan taken and adopted into the warrior caste. Most were former commandos of different inner sphere armies and the more experienced of them knew of the Blood Spirits and their (in)famous commander.  Indeed, these men viewed Duncan and his Blood Spirits in large amounts of respect bordering on awe.

 On the trip on the shuttle from Crossroads to the North, several of them compared notes on what they knew of who they were meeting.  One of the things discovered is that *all* of them had names for them. The handful of Lyrans called the Blood Spirits Das Nichtschatten (The Night Shadows) while the Kuritans had labeled them Onryo (“Vengeful Ghosts”) and Djinns Demons by the Arkab Legion, themselves a fairly legendary command.

   A very grey-haired commando offered up a personal experienced piece from the Civil War… and mentioned one job he knew was theirs because of what was left…

 “Yeah… When the dust settled around the 6^th Lyran’s command van, we found a spray-tag of their Cross, colors for gems and all; Fuckers had the time to tag the damn thing before they blew it.  That got into the Security troop heads, it did… in spades too; especially ‘cause it wasn’t just once they did that but something like a dozen times. They left either tags or a cheap cloth version of their Cross pinned to the highest ranking dead or wounded at an ambush scene. Fucking using old-school Psywar tricks on top of blowin’ shit up was pretty genius… and lemme tell ya, it worked too. I’m pretty sure it helped get Alpert’s men to turn on him and surrender… I’d put money on that.”

 Their fame had even reached to the south of the Inner Sphere or so their lone Capellan said. According to him, they were simply known as Yama, or Death. Saying such was frowned upon among the Warrior Houses, of course but it was there… And according to the lone Capellan, even the Taurians knew of them… which said a lot.

 To Miriam, she wasn’t sure whether or not to believe *that* much of the stories were Spirits related or merely propaganda spread to instill fear or worry… but given the experience of the Abtakha among her people, there was very likely a large number of facts behind the anecdotes.

 She had her grandfather’s own stories of their actions and activities, so she was inclined to believe them. And after reading over what the Watch had on the Blood Spirits, she was pretty sure those stories might be understated in some cases… and over stated in others. They couldn’t be everywhere, she knew… but everywhere apparently knew of them.

 The drop shuttles suborbital flight was swift but relatively gentle and the flight time was coming rapidly to an end. As they got closer, Miriam shook off her slight jitters that had cropped up from the conversations and had her people ready their gear. As a precaution, her team was dressed for business, with full tactical loadout and combat armor. The exception was Miriam and two members of her lead squad.

 A year ago, the Hells Horses Watch found a WoB cache of equipment. Among the items seized were several Tornado power armor suits that appeared not to have been adjusted to an individual wearer- an unusual find for sure. As part of the formation of her star this and other items were *gifted* to her for their use and use them she would, if this came to a shooting reception.  She didn’t think it would, but she armored up anyway with the assistance of those among her group familiar with the armor. Her experience with some of the GDL scout armor served her here… and she was sure she’d be fine if she had to use this.

 As they were about to land the pilot informed Miriam that he was at their disposal and would be standing by at the LZ.  She took this to mean no combat was expected… but she wasn’t going to count on it. That would be foolish… Very Out of Character too… but after the insanity they just went through on Centarus, almost anything was possible.

 Once on the ground, Miriam noted the two Kestrel VTOLs parked to the side as she deployed her troops in a perimeter around the transport. Once she was satisfied they were in position, she pointed at her two other armored companions to join her as she oriented for the path up from the field. John wasn’t kidding when he said I would have to hike to see him… She thought. And I see the psychology of it too; subtle and effective…

 As she moved to go, her most senior point commander, a true-born named Shaw, commented “Star Commander… there is no one here, Quiaff?”

 Miriam looked at him and smiled. Although he was the senior point commander, he was born and raised clan. “Neg,” Miriam replied. “Trust me they are here and watching; you just cannot see them… yet.”

 He looked around. “Are you sure?” Shaw questioned as he noted the former IS commandos taking pains to keep weapons in loosely-held grips. Nothing threatening but available and ready if needed. They knew they were being watched…

 “Start something stupid and you will find more of them then you can imagine, I am sure of it,” she said. “They know we are here, and I am certain we are under observation. Take charge here, i will go up the hill to where he likely waits and present our Offer.” With that Miriam and the two other power suit clad clansmen proceeded up the hill.

 The walk up the two kilometers was invigorating for Miriam; she realized that she did indeed miss this world and its natural beauty. Perhaps when this is settled, a trade mission could be negotiated. She thought. Dezgra Star is really no different than what THEY are… just not Inner Sphere.

 As she got closer, she could see Duncan standing by his clearing’s fire ring, a pipe in his mouth and a hammer hanging from his belt. Behind him, a woman clad in a tartan dress was standing closer to the cottage. Neither was dressed for combat, Miriam noted.

 The woman’s tartan dress, apron and moccasin boots were comfortable and practical attire, with her red-and-grey hair tied back with a ribbon and a shawl over her shoulders. Miriam had no doubt that a dangerous weapon would appear in her hands if there was even a hint of danger to her or her husband.

 Duncan stood next to her, the epitome of a Highlander wearing a shirt, heavy vest and a kilt. Instead of leggings he wore combat boots and gaiters. His arms were across his chest as a larger warhammer was balanced on a shoulder.

“Greetings,” He said casually as Miriam reached the clearing. “I’ve been told that ye wanted tae speak with me on a matter of some import. Would ye nae sit in the shade with and have refreshments?” Duncan pointed to a log pile where food and drink were.

 Miriam knew he was trying to throw her off her game with his hospitality. She couldn’t let him do that as far too much depended on this meeting- for her and her star. Holding her suit’s helm to her side, she spoke. “No, but thank you for the offer,” Miriam said calmly.  Taking a breath, she made her statement. “Colonel Duncan MacKenzie of the Blood Spirits, I am Star Commander Miriam of Hells Horses and I challenge you to a trial of possession for the right to make a copy of the Star League data core currently in your possession. With what forces and location will you defend?”

 Duncan was silent looking into her eyes. There was an intensity she would never be able to explain as if he could see what her plans were. Then Duncan relaxed. “And wha’ makes ye think that I may or may nae have such a data-core?”

 In Miriam’s mind Duncan never denied or affirmed that such a core even existed. He wanted her to tip her hand on how she knew. It only took a second for her to decide what to do. “The core itself is telling us,” she said casually. “It was a safeguard in Star League times to prevent theft. The core sends out a coded burst after it is removed from its primary location. It would appear to you as background electronic static unless you had the equipment, codes and know what to look for.”

 Miriam sighed. “Duncan, “she said, surprising him by the sudden informality. “I know you have the core and the Hells Horses know you have the core.” She paused a moment. “Most importantly no other clan knows you have the core. I was sent to gain access and get a copy for my clan. I can locate it, given enough time… and I will end up fighting you for it. If we have to  go looking for it, then the rest of my galaxy will be involved. After that, the three clans on this planet and eventually all the clans, comstar, the word of Blake,and all the great houses will know too!”

Silence reigned for a good five seconds after that statement… then she continued. “You and I both know that they will all come for it eventually when they learn of it. Not for a copy but to keep each other from having it. It won’t be a commando team then but a battle group with one goal… I am bound by my orders to get a copy of the core and how I do it is left to my discretion.” Her voice hardened. “Now it’s time for you to decide, with what forces will you defend?”

She could see the look on Duncans face as she explained the likely options she knew to him and Miriam could also see the stare as he appraised her. He was looking for flaws and a point of attack. If the stories were true, he was very good at that… which is what she had told Moon. Miriam had been going off what she had known prior to the trip here. After hearing her people talk about him, she believed that notion even more. Duncan MacKenzie had been doing this a long time, longer than she’d been alive…

 Finally, his expression changed and perhaps was even more stern. “Well lass I know your ways, and that of Ye Clan all too well…” he said slowly. “And this be me answer…. I shall Defend with me self against You… as, by ye own words, that success or failure rests upon ye shoulders alone, that it is on ye head if your plan works or no… That and the survival of ye Star too, if I be correct.”

 A grim smile as he continued. “You and I will settle this in a Circle of Equals, one on one… to be concluded on the ‘Morrow after sunrise.” His next words were somewhat chilling. “Ye and I shall face against each other in the Garden of the Spirits… where this, by rights, will be settled once and for all under the watchful eyes of those who Carry the Cross… and those who came before. This be me Rede.”

 The gaze she endured was intense and she agreed immediately. “Bid and Done,” Miriam said then realized he may have set her up. Damnit… that isn’t much time and You KNEW I would agree…

 He nodded. “The weather should be nice; the barn has bunks so your people can stay there, if ye choose to accept me Hospitality.”

 Miriam shook her head. “Neg,” she replied. “We will return to Crossroads and inform my commander. We will be ready to go where directed to resolve this…”

A nod. “Til morning then,” Duncan replied. “When this business will be concluded.”

 Miriam turned to leave with her companions to head back down when she heard his voice once more.

  “Lass, if’n I was you… I’d bring that power armor with ye,” he said calmly. “It would nae be smart ta no be wearin’ it for this. Sleep well…”

**

As Miriam and her people departed, Duncan stood quietly as he watched them go.  After about a half minute, Bronwyn stepped up next to him and faced his flank. “Duncan James MacKenzie, are ye mad?” she directed at him in a cold fury. “Tha’ lass is twenty-five years ye junior; augmented or no, she will have advantage, aye?”

 Duncan turned to face his wife, who was joined by Aella coming from the wood line, a sniper rifle in hand. “Oh aye… she is,” he said quietly. “But this needs tae end; If we dinnae try an’ stop ‘em in this challenge, I already ken there will be other attempts… None of ‘em being remotely open or friendly-like. She was verra right about that.”

 Aella spoke up. “Can’t say I disagree… but why not Argyle or Salem fight the trial?” she asked. “Why does it have to be you?”

 Salem, who had been watching from the flanks near the Hells Horses group answered her as he walked up, removing his Nighthawk helm. “Perceptions and psychology, Colonel; perceptions and psychology…” he said in a light tone before it got more serious. “The Blood Spirits are somewhat legend, almost boogieman-like, to those in the dark side of Direct-Action intelligence groups out there.  Shit, for the last decade, Duncan was the chief boogieman for us.”

 “Nonsense…” Duncan replied dismissively.

“No no…” Salem said. “You are, Duncan. Y’all are Baba Yaga, The Crow, Onryu… yeah you are a scary legend on the level of Birgitta, Old Man…”  He looked at Veratoni, who appeared from the barn. “Even with the Word- you can ask Veratoni about that; pretty sure she has some of the Blakist thoughts on him.”

 Veratoni nodded agreement. “Yes…” she answered, slightly embarrassed. “One of the last things I heard before I escaped was the bounty on him… and it was not small.”

 Salem continued. “Shit, during the Civil War, the Lyrans had a name for all of us- Das Schattenteufel…  which you can ask Reyna about. Seriously… I was listening to Adara as she told me what Miriam’s people were sayin’ down below while ye were talking- and it was pretty interesting.”

A chuckle. “Some knew of you or your rep.” He shook his head. “Pretty sure it’s cause they appear to be a mix of former House troops- commandos and the like, along with a few normal clanners. Hell, I recognized one of those with her; former Kungesarme guy,” He paused.

 “The look on his face was fucking awe, Duncan. To me, it was plain as day in his body language, armor or not. Shit, now I think of it, the other one with her had that goin’ on to a degree,” A snicker. “And here he is, watching you call her challenge by calling *her* out.”

 Salem’s snicker turned into a laugh as he added, “That’s balls, boss lady. And all Clanners respect that. You and Birgitta had that frenemy thing going on for years- and I know YOU remember that.”

 Aella nodded. “Yeah… and it was that respect that brought me here back then.” She looked at Duncan. “I get it… trading on your rep, though, is a dangerous thing. Useful… but dangerous.”

 Duncan nodded with a sigh. “Aye… It is, but what good is a reputation if ye cannae flex it? I be thinkin’ she be gettin’ an earful on the way to their shuttle about all this…” He said with a grim smile. “Bronwyn, ye be right… she has youth on me. Nae arguin’ tha… but I be pretty sure I have experience, aye?”

 He looked at his wife with a slight twinkle in his eye. “I think tha should count a bit…”

 Bronwyn looked at him, a touch of anger on her features still but mixed with concern. “Oh aye… it counts, mo ghràdh…” She reached out with her hand to his bearded chin. “I dinnae want tae lose ye to tha sassenach wretch. She be a clanner now… and might try tae take ye fer her own if she wins.”

 “Nae wi’out a fight, mo nighean teine,” he replied. “nae wi’out a fight.”

Phoenix Lancer Offices

Forbes Center

1600 hours local (1800 Ashton)

Leslie eyeballed the chirping comset on her desk. Glancing at the time, she reached out and picked up the device to answer it. “McCormack…”

 [Hey Leslie… can you get to a Secure room?] Tinney asked from the other end of the call.

 She blinked. “I can… where are you?”

 [Still at Desert One…] he said. [There is a wrinkle…]

 “Oh?” she replied, glancing at the time. “Poker Game still going?”

 [Yes… Hollister is holding his own. But this is about something else,] He said. [Call me when you get there.] He hung up.

 Leslie pocketed her comset and headed to the Secure Coms room to call John back.  When she got to the room, she placed the call. “Ok I’m here… what’s the wrinkle?”

 [Good…] He said. [It would seem the Hells Horses knew about the history of the Spirits; specifically, the special SLDF part. And they want information.]

 Silence from Leslie for a few seconds. “Well… they are rather pointed in wanting to face any units SLDF related still.” She replied. “But why do I suspect this isn’t for a fight?”

 [Because you have a suspicious mind…] John replied. [No, their Watch Contingent isn’t here to fight though they are prepared to fight for it. And what they want is what’s on your Archive Drives in that bunker… wherever it is.]

 “What!?” She exclaimed. “Who or how do they even know about it?”

 A sigh from the other end. [Apparently, parts of the Clans still maintain interest in the sneakier aspects of the SLDF. I suspect until a few years ago, it was passing interest at best but I’m probably wrong on that… at least time frame. In any case, they know a bit about them and I’m guessing what sort of security protocols are there.]

 He paused. [Who is here asking after it is a Star Captain Warren Moon and member of the Horses Watch. I brought Oliver Osis with me after asking him about the man’s name; Moon was kinda an exclusive name to the Smoke Jaguars as I recalled…  He confirmed that and he wanted to be there so I brought him along.]

 A chuckle. [According to him, most Smoke Jaguar warriors not taken as isorla went to other clans… and it was rare they were allowed to do anything for a long time. That this one was in a leadership position… he must have been someone special or a member of the Jag Watch, either way, Ollie wanted to meet him.]

 “And?” she asked.

 [Yep, he’s in the Horse’s version.] he replied. [And Ollie confirmed he was a Jag; Got him to confirm it with some verbal sparring too.  Neat to watch…]

 Leslie chuckled. “That man… is a trove of information on some things,” she said. “And I know he can hold a grudge. Last time I spoke to him about the Clan Watch, the level of hate he had for them was large… I think he blames them somewhat for the fall of Jaguar. We know it was more than that… but still, it’s a thought.”

 [Tell me about it… but yeah, after Ollie confirmed it, made things easier,] John said. [Once we got pleasantries out of the way, that’s when they asked about the Bunker and its contents.  It’s also when they presented their source…] He said. [Somewhere, somehow… they managed to find a living relative of an SOE operative.]

  A pause. When he continued, John sounded tired. [Leslie, they brought this person along with them and we know her… you’ll never guess who.]

 Leslie searched her very sharp memory for anyone that might have been related to the SOE and gone missing… and came up blank. “Something tells me I should know this answer… but I am drawing a blank.”

 [Miriam Blume…]

 Leslie blinked. “Her? I didn’t know her family was connected… but then, anything before I met her, I wouldn’t know… and any ties to the Spirits was not a topic of discussion,” she said. “She is a Hells Horse now?”

 [Apparently,] John replied. [And integral to this effort, so it looks like.]

 “Lovely.” Leslie paused. “You did tell them we don’t really control that bunker? That the original was destroyed….”

 [I did… and they replied with their knowing the drives they want still exist. Just not where… at least without a detailed search and scan,] John replied and she could *hear* the feral grin that had to be present. [That assertion almost caught them more than some sharp words from both Ollie AND me… Miriam defused it nicely though and Moon better find a way to promote her for that alone ‘cause she saved him a world of shit. For his part, he realized what he did and I could tell he saw what She did… so there is hope for the man.]

 A pause. [Anyway, I told them they’d have to talk to the current owners… and they’ll have to go to them. Leslie… they are more than fine with that, and they seem very determined…] he said. [Its Miriam who will be going though I doubt it will be alone. She does remember MacKenzie and his manners… along with how frustratingly good he is at getting people to swing on him when they shouldn’t. Moon listened to her… which is why she’s going.]

 Les pinched the bridge of her nose in thought. “Yes, they would be… and yes, he is. Amazingly so, actually; She was very astute to point that out to him. That said, how long does Duncan and Aella have?”

 [A day at most, maybe two; I said I would make arrangements and that determines how much time I can legit stall them,] he said. [This challenge is a separate item to the core Horses effort, and I think I can legit stall for a pair of days at least. They will have to talk, after all… so call it eighteen to twenty-four for them meeting to talk trial; maybe another eighteen to twenty-four hours more, based on that talk for any combat. And that’s starting now.]

 “Ok… I have some calls to make.” She commented. “If there is to be a fighting challenge- and knowing Duncan, there will be… I need a contingency plan and I think I have one. As good as the Spirits are, the other side only must be lucky once.”

 [Agreed…] john said. [Gotta go… Round one of the poker games just finished, and it looks like it went the way we thought it would. Hollister is better than he gives himself credit for, though.]

 “Understood… you go deal with that; I have calls to make and a plan to implement,” She hung up with John and dialed another number. When it was picked up on the second ring she spoke.

 “Selby, its Leslie… how fast can you and Chief Harvie make backup copies of the Archive? At least three…”

**

 Five hours later, Leslie was in her office when Selby called her back. “McCormack,” she said when answering.

 [Leslie, Selby,] came a voice. [Its done; three copies. Chief Harvie has all three right now and he’s verifying the last one now.]

 Leslie breathed out. “Ok… tell Eric he is to hang on to a copy and the other two go somewhere he thinks is one hundred percent secure. No compromise on that…” she said. “I’ll let John know its done so he can figure out what to do next.”

 [Will he have a plan?] she asked.

 “Probably…” she said. “If he doesn’t, I’ll be surprised.” Leslie knew John didn’t always have a plan but she admired his ability to cook on the fly. “The question is going to be will MacKenzie?”

 [Why?]

 “The Horses are here for them too…” Leslie answered. “Or rather, the contents of that drive as well as their secrets… and when this is done, I want you and Chief Harvie to examine the contents of those drives. The Horses are VERY interested in what’s on them…”

The Gully (Free-climb training area near the Cottage)

0942 local 05 May

  One of the many natural areas in the area of the Cottage was a deep ravine with a jagged rock face.  There, the Spirits used it for free-clomb training as well as physical rehab. Some thirty-five meters in depth, it was not the highest area on the world for such activities but offered challenge to the inexperienced and a refresher to the experienced. That it was close to home was a desired feature and it served as a valuable training ground.

 Adara’s team was using the Wall today with both Duncan and Salem watching over them as instructors.  The AG commandos had been here for a few days and soaking up the generalized teachings of the Spirit leader and his people. Much of what they had gone over in the training routines given by the senior Commando had been for evaluation purposes; MacKenzie wanting to know where Adara’s people were at… and how much they relied on tech to do their jobs.

 None of her people were new; many having years of experience but as some learned, experience using gear was very different when there was none to be had. It was humbling for the troopers; all of them had done climbs using equipment in some diverse places but none had done so where all they had was hands, feet and their own ability. They did have harness and safety lines- this was training, after all… but if someone fell, it was not going to be a fun drop.

 In the two days they had been up here, the training had been intense as they hit the ground running. Day one had seen them learning how to better fight in tight confines, in this case a trench system built to emulate corridors and the sort of tricks a low-tech enemy could pull in such places. After each run through, the AARs had been detailed, and each successive run had booby-traps added.

 When they training finished for the day, it was relaxing around the fire-ring with their trainers, going over the lessons learned during the day… and stories of events the two disparate groups had been through.

 Day two had been Physical Training of a different sort.  Axe work, field craft and a bit of construction work on the training areas- mostly improvements to what was there.  As they worked on the general improvement of trails and cut firewood, Adara got a new appreciation for Duncan’s strength and endurance. That man, even at sixty years of age, could swing an axe all day and she realized then it was that arm strength which had powered his hammer through her armor back then.

 They were joined in the work by the Gama Team of the Spirits, which apparently was on stand down. The Spirits went about the work with almost boredom, as if this was a normal occurrence. Her people asked questions about this stuff and all of them learned this old-school work was what helped the Spirit Commandos keep fit AND get stuff done. It was very old fashioned… but as MacKenzie had said, sometimes old ways are better ways, despite being inefficient.

Much like day before, evening was a communal affair as the two groups traded ideas and concepts between them as they ate. Both groups had different areas of expertise and notes traded on specific things traded. Much of it was very general stuff… but as had been mentioned early on, knowing the general on how allies fought or geared out meant better cooperation if they took to the field together.

 As a result, the two groups were bonding as if they were old friends. All of them were soldiers after all and the nature of their respective work was shared.  The camaraderie was real…

  Day three had dawned with the trip to the wall grounds and the planned opposed assaults on the trenches for the afternoon.  It was looked forward to by her people, as they were learning quite a bit on Spirit mindsets… and how much they moved as one when operating, which was something to emulate. Unfortunately, events outside of the Cottage area were about to put a damper on training… and drag them into the potentially deadly bit of Galactic Politics that was intruding again on Centarus.

 Duncan’s com-set pinged with a call, and he moved off to take it when seeing who it was from. He had gone away long enough for the AG commandos to get to the top of the climb and when he returned, he was not happy.

 “Adara…” he said as he returned. “I’m afraid I be needing to cut ye training sessions short. I’m about tae receive visitors and none of them are anything I expected.”

  Adara looked at him. “What’s wrong?” she asked.

 “It seems the Hells Horses are here In System and himself has seen to inform me a group be coming here to discuss a Trial.” He said. “He stalled them as long as he legit could…

Salem and Adara both said the same thing in unison. “What?”

 A sigh. “What I ken is they know we have some stuff tha’ be highly sensitive… and they want a copy.” Looking at Salem (who stared at him), he added. “Aye that…”

 “Oh bullshit….” Salem exploded. “How in the FUCK do they know about THAT?”

 Adara spoke after a glance at her people. “Um, know about what?” she asked. “And can we help?”

 Duncan looked at her, as if measuring his words. He glanced at Salem as he laid a hand on his dirk. At his slow nod, he answered her with a question. “Lass… there are things we do, ken an’ have that are verra serious, verra dangerous… and even knowin’ about some of it is life ‘n death.”

 A pause. “Even thae basics knowin’ be dangerous,” he said quietly. “It’s something deep in our history… and nae one of us would give it up, even under threat o’ death. If ye really want’n tae know, I require Blood Oath as in thae Old Ways… I willnae bring you into our mess without it.”

 He was quiet for a few seconds, hardly believing he was offering this… but with what was possibly coming and so many Spirits having left to return to their assignments now, it didn’t leave him much choice in the matter. They needed help and Adara, one of his prized student, was someone he trusted. “I know ye know what tha means… but do they?”

 Adara’s eyes went wide with the questions. She knew of Duncan’s faith, his family’s history and how he took some things far more seriously than most. If he was stating there needed to be an Oath of Blood taken, he meant the Life and Death part.

 She remembered that Highlanders who offer such… things… meant every word of such statements. If she was brought into his confidence and betrayed it, there was nothing that would stop restitution. Even if he died, someone would collect her scalp (and that of her people) as recompence. That he even brought it up told her whatever it was, had him rattled.

 Even on a world surrounded by allies.

 Looking at her people, who were all listening intently and casting glances at her, Adara could tell the brief few days they’d been with the Old Man had won all of them over- as it had her all those years ago. She knew he was a charmer… and her group of cutthroats didn’t sway easy.

 They were her personal hitmen; all of them trusted by her to do the Hard Stuff if given the job… and if she accepted, bringing them into this, it made for a deadly agreement. She knew… but did they? She thought so… but she was going to ask anyway.

 Looking at her people, she asked. “If you know what he offers, are you in?” Adara said. “Decide now.” Watching her people, she saw them look amongst each other and all looked back at her.

 It became apparent very quickly that Duncan’s history, his reputation and his ability were known to them all… and it was enough to follow her lead where he was concerned and they let her know it.

 “We’re in.” Joey Maradonna, the longest serving with her team, spoke up. “Even if we don’t know full details, we know there’s only so much of them… and they need help. If we can help, we’re in.” Nods and murmured agreement from the rest of the team punctuated his next words.

 “Boss, he can’t tell us the what behind the why and we can’t talk about it later… but we get to hurt some people,” He held his hand out… “Omerta no different in a lotta ways, ya know? Just tell me whose shuttle we’re taking.”

 Lena Wade, the lone female among her group (besides her) added. “Clanners can get fucked, eh?” The woman said in her whiskey-voice as she took her climbing glove off and wiped her hand on her pants before holding it out.

 The other five men indicated similar and held out hands. They were in, no matter what was up… They all knew the sort of shit the Blood Spirits got into and if this was something that worried the Old Man, this was some shit… and walking away wasn’t them. They couldn’t and wouldn’t.

 Adara turned back to Duncan and held her hand out. “Sensei, we don’t need details, but we will take the Oath; just *knowing* you have something that dangerous is probably enough to put us in a world of shit… so may as well do the thing, right?”

 Drawing his dirk, Duncan stepped forward. “Lass, I will tell ye basics; depending on how this goes, ye might ken more,” he said. “Arione cannae know… aye?”

**

 Two hours later, all of them were back at the Cottage and gearing up.  It had been decided on the hike back that the AG troops would be kitting up and finding hidden spots to view the landing field. Once there, they were to merely watch and keep whatever arrived under observation.

 Com-gear was tuned to an appropriate channel, with the Lancer Guard channel also given. If this meeting went sour, they’d know and were to act accordingly.

 As they were leaving, Aella arrived. When she was brought up to snuff, she unpacked her rifle and disappeared into the woods. She was mad at Duncan for spilling *anything* but agreed they needed help; Adara and her people were available, so they’d have to do. The only team left here right now was Gamma; the rest having left the world or on Ashton helping down there.

 Time was of the essence… and it was the only play they had.

Commanders Office Desert One

1432 hours local 04 May

 Moon and Miriam followed Tinney and his un-named companion over to the operations building. As they walked, he pondered the self-assured nature of the planetary governor. He is very confident about something, he thought to himself. Almost amused. Then there is the matter of his knowing we are Watch… I do not believe we advertised this- but we also did not deny it either.

 Entering after the two residents, the pair of Clanners observed the relaxed discipline being shown. All proper responses but nothing rigid… It would seem the data on his personality and command methodology may be correct- expected adherence to authority yet very hands off or non-stern in presence. It seemed to work for him… such style was rare among the clans but not unheard of.

 Moon could imagine what he was like if he was mad. According to Miriam, he had a pretty good temper and likely rival some of his old Clan officers.  Speaking of his old clan, the presence of the man with the Smoke Jaguar Star Colonel rank had him curious. By his bearing, he was a True Born for certain though much older than most within the Clans.  And if he was a former Jag Star Colonel, he was a very rare one; to Moon’s knowledge, most of them died fighting…

 As they entered the office, Tinney stood at the door as he waited for everyone to enter.  Once they did so, he closed the door and stepped to a desk to one side.  As he scanned the small set of controls inset into a corner, he was heard to mutter, “I know its here somewhere…. Ah!” With the exclamation, he tapped a key and a small light blinked on a com-panel.

 “Ok… this room is secure against outside listeners- short of a Secure Facility, at least,” He said as he motioned for everyone to sit. “Before we get started, I’d like to introduce to you a friend of mine..” Turning to face his companion, he noted the bemused expression and commented. “I said what I said…”

 “Aff, you did… and while I would not call us friends, we certainly are no longer enemies,” was the reply as the man turned to look at the two Hells Horses. “I am Chief Warrant Officer Oliver Osis, former Star Colonel of Clan Smoke Jaguar before becoming Cloud Cobra then the Home Clan experiment that was the Reborn Mongoose. I was taken as Isola before becoming Abtakha and a Freeman Warrior here… and I only come forth for special circumstances.”

 He paused, studying Moon. “Given your Blood Name and how so few of them survived…. You are Jaguar?” Came the quiet challenge. Ollie would know this man’s confidence and competence. If he was afraid or ashamed, the answer would be avoided.

 It wasn’t. Moon gazed back at the man and internally marveled at the possible legend before him. He had heard of this Oliver back then and had wondered once or twice over the years what had become of him. That he lived was testament to his skill, luck or some combination of them- especially as rabid a Crusader he had been back then (if this was the same person).

 Time to find out… “Aff, at one point, I was…” he replied carefully. “But, not in any place of importance unlike yourself. When the Clan fell, I was taken by Hells Horses and earned my place not long after.”

 Oliver continued to study him. “Warden,” he said with a snort as he glanced at Tinney. “He is what you would call a Unicorn; having a Blood Name of Note and yet be nowhere important with it…” He turned his gaze back to Moon. “At some point, I should like to hear this tale Star Captain…”

 Moon, realizing that he had just passed some sort of test, was not sure if he should be mad or not over it. “And it is a tale I am willing to tell, as boring as it may be,” Was the direct reply; slightly curt.

 Miriam looked between the two men, picking up on the tension. What had started as a side project that could get her killed… just became a whole lot weirder. John always did collect odd friends, she thought. And why should he be any different fifteen years later?

 Tinney looked at Oliver. “You accept his Bonafides?” he asked.

 Osis leaned back in his chair. “Aff. He is a confident Warden and a former Jaguar. He answered and he didn’t show fear as one of my Old Clan would not.” A smile. “Though he carries an Elemental Blood Name, those of the Moon Blood Right tended to be smart and crafty … I suggest you choose your words carefully, Governor. Were he a Perez, you would need not worry- all they know is fighting and shooting civilians.”

 A smile as he noticed Moon bristle a little at the Intra-Clan political digs Damn Ollie… what a nice way to poke someone with history- even twenty years later, he thought as he answered. “Noted…” Turning to face Moon, he held up his hands in a open gesture. “So, let’s begin… What is it you are after?”

 The two Hell’s Horses exchanged looks and Moon began. “We are here for the contents of a special memory core that is here on Centarus.” He spoke. “It is contained in na Exodus Era facility hidden somewhere on your planet that belonged to a Special Operations Executive unit that settled here.”

 “How special a memory core?” Tinney asked. “And how do you know about a Special Forces unit that settled here?” Tinney had a feeling he knew the answer, and she was here in this room.

 Miriam spoke up then. “They know because I knew, Governor,” She replied, using his title. This was business, after all. “My Great Grandfather was a member of the unit before they became who they are now… and I know some of their history. He used to tell me stories about some of his exploits, and I remember them.”

 She paused. “I recall him going somewhere in Landing for meetings with Old Friends and being gone for weeks or months at a time before he no longer could. We emigrated, as you remember, in ‘65 as Great Grand was the reason we had stayed.”

 Tinney nodded. “Well… I suspect this is going to be bad news for you and for your cause… but Landing was destroyed.” He replied, slightly pained. “It was tore up in 71 and not quite six months ago, the Word of Blake nuked it…. If that bunker is there, it’s not very accessible right now…”

 Moon and Miriam exchanged looks then he turned to face Tinney. “Based on what we know and a signal that we picked up when we were in orbit, the core survives which means the bunker or wherever the core is, also survives and is accessible.” He said. “Electromagnetic interference would mask it if it were in the city still. Were this a Military Operation that warranted it, we would scan the various locations on the world to localize it and go after it.”

 Miriam spoke up when she saw Tinney’s eyes narrow at Moon’s choice of words- and the glint in Oliver’s eyes. The hell that *Savashri* son of a surat is not involved here, she realized quickly. He would relish a fight right now… and we’d lose!

  “Such an attempt would be suicidal, which is what I cautioned our Khan when my ties were discovered and where I was from.” She commented. “I explained that any direct action would both be foolhardy and quite detrimental to the desired goal of gaining contents…”

 A pause. “With the other groups and personages that live here, known and unknown, the odds of ANY success decrease to non-existent.” She explained. “Thankfully, I was listened to.” The comment about known and unknown was directed at Oliver- she hoped he understood the back handed compliment.

 Moon took over speaking again, catching the save he just got. “Poor choice of words, Governor. I apologize…” He spoke. “When the question of the… Wolverines…” he made a point to speak their name here. “And continued following of the Edict was examined along with what the Ghost Bears and Snow Ravens had done, our mission was placed in tandem with Galaxy Commander Fletcher’s.”

 “I am aware of the Phoenix Lancer willingness to fight by Zellbrigen and partake in how we conduct trials; the events of 3050 against the Jade Falcons and your participation in Bulldog are known… because of this, it was felt approaching our desire for those contents would be best served by requesting a Trial of Possession.”

 Tinney leaned back in his chair. “Poor choice of words indeed…” he commented. “Barfights and feuds have broken out over worse.”  With a sigh he shook his head. “Well, Star Captain, I can honestly say I don’t have your bunker…. Though I know who does.”

 He turned to look at Miriam. “As do you, Star Commander… I KNOW you damn well know who does, too… and while the leader you knew is no longer alive, her then-Second and her old rival… are the ones in charge of the Group now.”

 He chuckled. “And while I understand why you came to me, I can assure you I am NOT their boss. I just get to use them once in a while for projects…” He was quiet for a few seconds. “And you will have to talk to him about fighting over it,” he said. “I’m certain he will entertain your request… though I’m sure you will have to go visit him. After all… he has what you are looking for; if you are serious, visiting him will show it.”

 Miriam thought for a moment and leaned over to Moon. “He’s not kidding,” she whispered. “If it is who I think it is, I need to be the one to talk to him AND visit…”

 “Why?” he asked in a low tone.

 “Because he will find a way to make you mad in the nicest way possible, getting you to fight right then and there,” she replied. “And Star Captain, he could fight an elemental and win unaugment-ed. Not easily… but he could. With me, I can count on his manners…”

“Are you sure?” Moon was dubious.

“Aff,” she replied. “Unless he no longer is himself, Great Grandad said he was always polite, if a bit rough- even in a fight.”

 Moon thought it over and looked back at Tinney. “Then this will be. Once the first Trial is complete or mostly so… I will send Star Commander Miriam to speak with him and offer Trial.” He said. “Will I need special transport, or may I send her via her own ship?”

 Tinney glanced at Oliver, who had spent most of the discussion watching Moon. “Well?” he asked.

 Oliver nodded. “I do not believe there will be treachery, if that is what you are asking,” he replied. “I happen to think the Star Captain means as he says… unless he is a far better liar than being Watch allows for.”

 A chuckle. “Ok then… Arrangements will be made when we are done here.”

 Moon looked between the two of them and then asked the un-asked. “A question… how did you know we were Watch?”

 Tinney chuckled. “No lie… it was partially a guess and partially your actions,” he said. “You showed up as junior ranks at a high-end meeting which meant some sort of special observer… and only a Spy would be so bold as to message me separately when his fleet commander was involved in posturing… So, it was either you were Watch which, to my knowledge, sometimes flexes its authority too much or you were some sort of special envoy.  For the second option, you didn’t have the rank to be that without some convincing reasons.”

 Osis added. “When Fletcher did not correct him outside, it was a giveaway. I never liked the Watch when I was Smoke Jaguar… but I do understand they serve a purpose; I would have corrected him in some fashion to slow down suspicion at least. .” A slight grin. “For your sakes, I hope he is a better poker player than politician or this is not going to go well.”

**

The Pilots Lounge

1431 hours

“As agreed to, this Challenge will be done via a Best of Three Poker game; both of you have an equal amount of chips which will be reset once a game has concluded. If someone should win two games, not hands, in a row, the Trial will be concluded. This was deemed to be the fairest to all parties and a better test of skill,” Odayama said. “A data terminal separate of planetary networks is over to the side for your research into the information promised. Sustenance will be provided as it is understood, should Hells Horses be victorious, your evaluation of the data may take some time. Obviously, you will be able to take it with you but as agreed to, the initial research shall be done here.”

  He looked at the two leaders. “Good luck to you both gentlemen… We shall begin.” With that, he lifted a deck of cards and placed it in a shuffler. “As the challenger, you will get the first card.”  Once the shuffler was finished, Odayama set another deck in the device as he removed the first.  Once that was done, he began dealing.

 “This is a variation of the standard poker game, and the changes are as follows…. There will be three rounds of five card poker with each round based on what you, Khan Hollister bid to defend with, and you Galaxy Commander bid to attack with.” He explained. “The chips you each have to use is based on the following formula… An infantry point is values at 1, elemental infantry is valued at 2, battlearmor is valued at 3, light armor vehicles 5,mediums armor 10, heavy armor15, assault armor 20. Now battlemechs and aerospace fighters are valued by the same weight class as armored vehicles with an additional 5 points per unit.”

 “Omnimechs, vehicles and fighters receive an additional 2 points,” he continued. “You will note that your chips in addition to having a band showing there denomination also have a specific color in the center- maroon for the Hells Horses and Brown for the Wolverines. You can only eliminate your opponent’s chips from the game you cannot use them yourself. The winner retains half of their bets to represent attrition… which was determined to be a fair assessment of what could occur if this were fought out.”

 He paused to make sure the players understood before continuing. “The only other special rule is that if one of you bids more than the other has chips, your opponent must go All in. It will be an automatic call and the cards will decide who the winner of the pot is.  Please adjust your total chip forces prior to looking at your cards to best represent what you are fighting this with, allocate them appropriately and then let us begin round one.” Odayama replied. “A explanation sheet is to your left if needed.”

 The two commanders adjusted their chip counts to represent what they were using for  this. Khan Hollister adjusted his chip count to show roughly three battalions he had (two battlemech (striker and dragoon) and one mixed composition) available.

  It wasn’t nearly as much as what Fletcher had, with his four clusters (a cluster being equivalent to anything from an oversized battalion to almost a regiment.) As it was, Fletcher’s asset count amounted to four clusters with the equivalent of three trinary each… or in Inner Sphere terms, four reinforced battalions of units.

 Fletcher looked at what his opponent had and lifted an eyebrow. So few? He wondered. How odd… are they really that small? He then corrected his thinking. If you had as many warships as they do, even if skeleton crewed, you don’t need that much on the ground… Selecting the allocation that represented his Striker Cluster, he smiled. “Fire and fury, Khan Hollister…”

 Hollister looked over his piles and selected the representation of his Striker Battalion. He knew if it was a real fight, it would not hold up well against what his opponent could use but he also knew they had fought the Ghost Bears well… Time to see if they are as lucky here as they were two years ago. “We will see, Galaxy Commander… we will see.” He said and awaited the counter bid.

  When Fletcher placed the representative chips for his Striker Cluster, he looked up at Hollister. “I believe this is a fair counter…” he said with a smile and play began.

 Odayama watched carefully as both players made their bids based on their hands, cautious at first but picking up slowly in pace. With the particular chips each used from their respective piles, he could almost see the battle in his mind’s eye.

 Light mechs and vehicles of the regiment probing. Being attacked by the medium weight counters and infantry of various sorts… More chips added to represent mechs from both sides joining the fray, small skirmishes and then back to probing operations as hands were won.

 The bids were small, the Khan and Galaxy Commander feeling each other out and testing the others mettle. Fletcher was by far the better poker player, but Hollister seemed to be a very quick study. The small bids and careful study carried the first round into the late afternoon when the round concluded…. Fletcher had won soundly beating the Khan in the last round with a straight flush to Hollister’s Aces and Eights.

  As the second round was set for dealing, Hollister studied his opponent again. He knew poker was not his game (chess was) but he’d been coached going into this by the newly promoted Lieutenant Colonel Kassing (a card shark from hell or so Tinney said when he sent him over to bring him up to speed) and his own quick-learning nature, he knew he had a chance.

  Fletcher was very good… and in his opinion, Kassing might have had trouble but the advice to look for tells helped. LtCol Kassing was firm on that… “Everyone has a tell. Some are blatant, some are subtle… but they are there. Most Clanners don’t lie well… so use that.” 

 That advice had helped him to drag this first game out as long as he did. He now expected Fletcher was going to go for a quick kill this time. He had assets to burn, and the Wolverine didn’t. I would, were it me, he thought as he set up his next unit of chips and the cards were dealt.

   The second round went about where Hollister thought it was going to go… as Fletcher used the representation of his heaviest cluster supported by a light one to drive up the betting. Not a bad plan but it still relied on the play of the cards… and the Khan’s quick study nature helped immensely here… Hollister held his own, yielding quickly in some hands based on initial deals and sticking only when he had something reasonable.

 As a result, the round stretched into the night, with several All-In bids on Hollister’s part… which he won each time. The final hand saw much the same result, with the Khan squeaking out a narrow victory- both players holding two pairs in their hands. Unfortunately for Fletcher his fours and jacks were smaller than Hollister’s tens and kings. The round ended with that last desperate action seeing the Hells Horses leader lose the rest of his cluster chips, which forced the third round.

  “Gentlemen”, Odayama announced, “That ends round two and it is now 0117hrs. The trial is suspended for the evening and the final round will begin tomorrow morning at 1100 hrs. Galaxy Commander, accommodations are available for you and your company here unless you prefer to fly back and forth.”

 Fletcher looked at his opponent with a slight smile then at Odayama. “I will avail myself of the accommodations, Colonel Odayama; I trust in your security and the hospitality that has been shown. A good night’s sleep on solid ground, even if its austere, is preferable to my quarters on the drop ship.” He replied. “This way, no time is lost while in transit, Quaiff?”

 At a gesture from Odayama, one of the guards would step up. “This way, sir…” the guard said and he would lead them away.

 As the two parties and their entourages left the building, Odayama noted Star Captain Warren Moon (who had arrived halfway through round one) giving him a subtle respectful nod. He knows, was all he could think as he nodded back. After making sure the Hells Horse people had departed, Odayama pulled out a datapad and sent a long email to Gov. Tinney that evening with the details of the events transpired.

 In setting up the poker game he had used the set up to potentially learn what exactly the Hells Horses had with them…. If Fletcher was honest about allocating, of course. Considering the hubris of the man and of Clan Officers in general, it was very likely what Fletcher allocated was exactly what he had with him in real forces.

 A sly smile as he typed out his observations. I believe he gave us EXACTLY what he as here… Even with the twenty-five percent rule, knowing what they have is very useable.… and Moon saw it. He thought. I suspect he’s not going to tell him either… which is in keeping with rivalries within Clan commands. This is useable intelligence.

 As he finished typing, Odayama had a final thought. Not that I expect this to go sideways but Tinney and I have what we need to hold advantage on them… from the start.  A smile. And that is something to be mindful of…