Chapter 5

New Avalon Institute of Science, New Avalon

Crucis March, Federated Suns

August 26th 3046

At 18, Wendy Sylvester was older than most of the cadets who had started at 16. She had delayed entry because she wanted to ensure she could perform at her utmost potential. Wendy came from a long line of Sylvesters who had served in the elite unit, the Davion Heavy Guards. Originally, they were the bodyguard unit of the First Prince of the Federated Suns; however, over the centuries, their role had shifted. They were now the premier Regimental Combat Team on the Davion side of the Federated Commonwealth, and in Wendy's eyes, they were easily better than anyone on the Lyran side of the new super-state.

The NAMA program would last for three years, and those who managed to pass and master everything would be slotted into the AFFC where they were needed. However, and this was the reason she had studied and practiced for two years before joining, they were given the option to choose what unit they joined, subject to availability. Given that the Davion Heavy Guards had over 100 'Mech pilots, there were almost always at least a couple of slots open every year. All Wendy needed to do was reach high enough in the class rankings, and she could continue her family tradition. It was this motivation that drove her to excel.

Just take it a day at a time, then a week at a time, and then a year at a time. I'm going to be learning not just more about 'Mech piloting, but also officer training, political expectations for officers of the AFFC, advanced mathematics, counterintelligence awareness training, physical training, combined arms theory, and more.

After going through an extensive security screening, she was finally ready to get to her dorm. NAMA, like many centers of higher learning, had continued traditions from ancient Terra. And that included having a roommate. Wendy thought she was fairly easy-going as a person, so long as her roommate wasn't utterly obnoxious; she was confident they would get along.

As she arrived at her room, she saw a woman in a dark suit that screamed 'MIIO' to everyone who had ever spent anytime within Avalon City.

"Cadet Sylvester, I am Agent Patricia Ainsworth of the Federated Commonwealth Intelligence Secretariat, how do you do?"

"I… uh, I'm fine. Excited to begin my course work."

"That's a good attitude to have, Cadet Sylvester. I am here to inform you that your roommate is Princess Katherine Steiner-Davion. I am her personal protection and will be stationed at the guard post along with the rest of the security staff in NAMA and NAIS." Wendy was handed a small device with a single button. "Not that we believe it will be necessary, but if any sort of danger threatens the princess, press that button, and it will alert me directly."

Huh?

"Wait, I'm confused. Princess Katherine is too young for the Academy."

"Normally, yes. But she passed the entrance exams, and her father granted her an exception," Ainsworth raised an eyebrow. "Would you like to take it up with the First Prince?"

Wendy's cheeks went red. "God no! Sorry, I'm just caught off guard, I wasn't expecting this."

"That is understood. Outside of what I have just shared with you, I would recommend you treat Katherine as you would any other fellow cadet. Do be mindful, should she take a call with members of her family, that information may be of a classified nature. When in doubt, zip it, but you can also request to speak with me if you have any concerns. Do you have any questions now?"

"No, no ma'am."

"Good, best of luck Cadet Sylvester."

Wendy composed herself and then knocked on the door.

"Come in."

The voice that had answered was clear and confident. Wendy opened the door and came face-to-face with a smiling woman around her height.

She's tall! And, wow, she looks like a fashion model. Piercing blue eyes, a flawless face, and full blonde hair would make her the envy of every female cadet at the academy. Is she really only 13?

Realizing she was gawking; she shut the door and lowered her head. "Highness, it is an honor to meet you. I am Wendy Sylvester."

"I am pleased to meet you as well; however, please do not refer to me that way. Just call me Katherine. We are going to be roommates and likely confidants, and excessive formality will hinder our relationship."

"Ah, yes, I understand… Katherine."

"Wonderful, so tell me what has you joining NAMA?"

Wendy found herself telling Katherine about her motivation to join the unit her family had served in for generations.

"A laudable goal. You'll need to work hard, given the prestige of the Davion Heavy Guards. They, the 4th Davion Guards, and the Kathil Uhlans will be the top picks for most of our class."

Wendy nodded; she already knew that.

"What about you?"

Stupid, she's three failed heartbeats away from being the Archon-Prince!

It would take something utterly catastrophic for Hanse Davion, Melissa Steiner, and Victor Steiner-Davion to all die, but if it were to happen, she was looking at her nation's ruler. And a potential ruler would want to be in the best academy the Inner Sphere had to offer!

"I'm here to complete my education, and then afterwards, be given a command to prove I can handle leadership responsibilities. I'm keen on learning more about combined-arms tactics."

"Well, uh, if you need any help, let me know. It's kind of amazing that you passed the entrance exams at your age."

Katherine shrugged. "I've a knack for learning things. I will reciprocate, to a reasonable extent, if you need assistance."

Wendy looked around the room and saw Katherine had claimed a desk space and already had a monitor in place and her noteputer docked. The other side of the room was Wendy's and it looked as if Katherine had been scrupulous in ensuring all of her belongings had not crossed over to her roommate's side.

Did she do that, or did someone else do it for her? Either way, it's good, and she seems polite enough. I don't think my parents will believe me when I tell them I'm rooming with Princess Katherine!

***

The Nagelring, Tharkad

District of Donegal, Lyran Commonwealth

September 30th 3046

Victor kept an affixed faux smile on his face as his fellow student droned on about what an honor it was to team up with him. Ciro was like many others, eager to form bonds and climb the social ladder by befriending the future Archon-Prince. He hated it because he knew they only acted that way due to his status as heir. Victor wanted to earn his success like everyone else; he didn't want something handed to him just because of his name.

As of yet, he had not met anyone he could be sure was a genuine person. He was self-aware enough to know he might be reading more into people's intentions than what was truly there, but when it came to Ciro, he was sure.

"We are going through a simple exercise, Ciro, this is not worth making a big deal over."

"Every journey begins with one step, Highness, and our bond can begin being forged now," Ciro replied.

Victor was tempted to punch him, just to see if he'd be thanked for the punch. It was so palpably obvious what his classmate was doing, it twisted his stomach.

"I told you, please don't call me that. Here, I'm just like everyone else."

He was sure he would have to remind him again, but he ignored it for now and headed to the simulators. Their task was to simply move from checkpoint to checkpoint and then communicate back to base anything remarkable that they found. The entire exercise was simulated, of course, but it was good training for potential real combat scenarios. They were piloting Locust 'Mechs, one of the lightest and most widely used recon 'Mechs along with the Wasp and Stinger. These 'Mechs were often referred to as 'bug 'Mechs' because they were easily crushed by larger 'Mechs. Victor had to applaud the courage of recon lances who piloted such machines in combat situations.

Victor smoothly took the 'Mech up to top speed, while Ciro struggled for a moment before shifting so he was following behind and to the right. The exercise itself was simple enough: a radar blip was reported, and then they continued to the next checkpoint. At the third one, Ciro pointed out another anomaly and reported it.

"Wait, according to the guide, that should just be background radiation from an old 1st Succession War battlefield where nuclear weapons were used. We didn't need to report that."

Part of the exercise was to use what was known about the world they were simulating. Nuclear weapons were banned from use, with an understanding that if they were used, the other Successor States would seek to end the state that used them. Even to this day, their horrific legacy remained on various planets throughout the Inner Sphere from the initial Successor Wars. By signaling an area of concern that was not an area of concern, it cost them points.

"Damn, sorry Victor," Ciro said contritely.

"It is fine, let's just keep going."

They received a passing grade, but not as high as he would have liked. Victor pushed himself to excel because he was going to be the future ruler of the Federated Commonwealth. How could he give anything less than his very best?

Life at Nagelring, or The Nagelring as his instructors insisted it be called, was intense, but rewarding. His mind was being stretched further than he anticipated, but he was still earning top marks. Where he truly shined was in the simulator aspect. In direct combat simulator fights, he was undefeated over his classmates.

I had the best instructors and quality foes. They are easy to defeat, but it is no slight against them that someone with specialized training and far more experience would be better.

After training, he saw a communication from Katherine via ComStar. Her letters were always something he looked forward to. He was accustomed to being away from her for half a year, but that half a year was not all in one stretch.

If she were here, I would have some good competition! That reminds me I need to reply to her letter.

Finishing his response, Victor looked it over and then sent it. It wasn't scheduled at the highest priority, but it was a high priority, and he knew that wasn't an inconsequential amount of C-Bills. But it was one of the few indulgences he took, and his parents had never given him any grief over the costs.

Victor had been invited to a get-together with some of the 2nd and 3rd years, but he chose instead to study. His scores in advanced mathematics were still high, but he was starting to struggle a bit with some of the theory. He was very much a 'use it if it works' type, as opposed to a 'let's understand why it works' type, so the concepts that built the foundation of the equations they used made his head spin a bit. It would be a challenge to keep his number one spot in the class roster, given how 'Mech simulator scores were only part of the equation, but he was determined to do so.

***

New Avalon Institute of Science, New Avalon

Crucis March, Federated Suns

September 30th 3046

I was quite pleased with my experience so far with both the NAMA and the NAIS. My fellow cadets were hardworking and bright, and they would have fit right in with the Imperial War College. The coursework for the NAMA portion was simple enough, given my earlier studies, and it did not take up much time. The College of Engineering made me focus as I delved into newer concepts and pushed my design for a new artillery system further. It was coming together, but I needed to make sure I wasn't missing anything.

A double workload was not truly sustainable, especially with juggling my holovid recordings, investment management, letter writing, and additional research projects. I consulted with the brass at the NAMA and requested to test out of portions of the study that were, frankly, unimportant to me.

Had I been anyone else, I would probably have been ignored, but I was Katherine Steiner-Davion, and my name carried weight, so I used it. They wouldn't compromise on ensuring I was fully trained, but I managed to gain credit by examination instead of enduring training I didn't need. On the shooting range, I demonstrated that I was a crack shot and easily passed my certification (again) with the Laser Pistol, Needler Pistol, and Federated Long Rifle. I also aced several of the mathematics exams, the second language requirement, and the Military Law exam. Additionally, I tested out of the elective courses on Explosive Munitions Disarmament and Jump Point Cartography. While I could have done the same for Military History, the subject was always fascinating, and I was curious about the other cadets' thoughts on various events.

When it came to simulator training, I messed up badly on my first run. My target class rank was to be in the top 10% but below the top 5%. I wanted to excel in strategy, academics, and physical fitness but not stand out too much in 'Mech combat. My goal was to be considered a very good 'Mech pilot, but not among the rarified elite. I had learned the painful lesson in my second life that proving yourself to be a combat ace of aces only ensured you were always thrown into the meat grinder.

No, my goal here was to demonstrate that I was a strategically minded genius who was also a solid and effective MechWarrior. After graduating from the NAMA, I intended to serve in the AFFC as a research officer. Unlike Dr. Schugel, I had no intention of becoming a mad scientist. Instead, I would focus on testing my own designs and improving the overall effectiveness of the military as a whole, far from the frontlines.

Unfortunately, I missed the mark on what "good" meant and ended up thoroughly impressing the instructors. I had assumed I was facing the computer in the simulator on some kind of baby mode, where the goal was simply to rack up a good score – not my fellow cadets.

When the first week of rankings came out, I was not just within the top 10% but the literal number one 'Mech pilot. I couldn't simply sandbag completely – that would look odd – so I had to gradually dial back my effectiveness, which was taking its sweet time. Fortunately, Kai was attending as well and had taken the number one spot in 'Mech simulator scores from me. I had no desire to build a reputation as a combat specialist, so I was grateful to him for taking the spotlight. I had even offered to treat him to a quick lunch to celebrate his success, but he had awkwardly mumbled something that could only be a decline.

My roommate had proven to be a mature and well-rounded individual. She was solidly above average and worked hard to improve even further. I respected that, and we managed to have a few conversations that, I believe, strengthened our interpersonal relationship. However, she also seemed distant and always on the verge of bringing something up to me. Yet, when I asked her point-blank what it was, she demurred.

I would soon need a leave pass to attend an important meeting on Tharkad. My design was nearly complete, and I now needed a defense contractor to accept it. I had arranged a meeting with the CEO of TharHes Industries, and an in-person discussion suited my needs far better than relying on ComStar messages and holovid recordings.

With my absence, I could also use that as an excuse for a drop in the quality of my performance. And more importantly, I would begin making concrete steps to improving the AFFC.

***

New Avalon Institute of Science, New Avalon

Crucis March, Federated Suns

October 2nd 3046

Cadet Wendy Sylvester knew her roommate was brilliant, and she had seen her spend hours working on one elective or another in their room. The problem was, most of the other cadets thought she was lazy and unmotivated, only attending the classes she excelled in. The fact that she demolished them in their first combat training exercise only rubbed salt into the wound when they saw her skipping courses that most would-be 'Mech jockeys found tedious.

"Wendy, is she going to miss every session of range time? I know she probably doesn't give a shit, but she could at least show up once to see what she's got."

The comment came from Donald Poole, one of the better shots with the Federated Long Rifle. He wasn't great at 'Mech combat, and it seemed to Wendy that he wanted to avenge the brutal, one-sided defeat he had suffered on their first day of combat simulation.

Wendy shrugged. "How am I supposed to know? Roommate selection isn't up to us."

"Yeah, but I bet you enjoy the five-star meals you get delivered," another person joked.

"We don't get catering," Wendy retorted, growing more annoyed.

"Sure you don't," Donald laughed. "Look, just talk to her and tell her to show up – just once."

"I bet the sound of gunfire bothers her," one of the other cadets said. "She's not even 14 yet."

"That's a reason why she shouldn't have joined until she was 16! Having bluebloods attend NAMA is better than just giving them rank and a command, but only if they have to do the same shit we do. Whatever assignment she gets, her unit is going to be screwed," Donald argued.

Amy laughed. "Why are you even worried about that, Poole? You think the First Prince is going to risk her pretty face on the front line somewhere? She'll probably get stationed on Tharkad, and her XO will run whatever role she gets for her. She'll smile for cameras and drive recruitment numbers up. Worry about yourself and not what your betters do."

Wendy frowned. "That's not fair. She's attended Lance Command training, and you know she knows her shit when it comes to Military History. I'd be happy to have her as my CO. She's smart and..."

"Oh, give it a rest. No one is recording you here," Donald interrupted. "Save the brown-nosing for when the princess is actually here. And since it's a gun range, she won't be anywhere nearby," he replied, finishing the turn-in of the day's equipment.

Wendy saw the next group file in, and with them was Kai, who had overheard some of what had just been said.

"Cadet Poole, I won't say anything to her or anyone else, but I want to assure you that you are completely incorrect about Princess Katherine," Kai said firmly.

Donald's face twisted into concern when he heard Kai start speaking but relaxed when Kai assured him he would not snake on him.

"What part? She's obviously getting favored treatment. Being firearm certified, no matter how absurd in the age of 'Mechs, is a requirement to graduate. She's not been here even once."

Kai looked at him and then shook his head. "It doesn't matter and isn't worth it. If you take issue with it, please talk to the Kommandant instead of speaking ill of your fellow cadet."

"You know," Donald drawled a bit, "I do respect you more than her, at least you walk the walk, but don't mess it up by siding with her just because she's the princess."

"I have said what I have said, and I would like to focus on the task at hand. Goodbye, Cadet Poole."

Wendy hung back while the others left and the rest of the new class filed in. She approached Kai. "Hi, we have Mil Law together, and we sparred once in 'Mech simulator combat. I'm Wendy Sylvester. I wanted to let you know I appreciate the backup. I don't really know how to talk to her about ditching so many classes, or why they are so blatantly allowing it. Do you think you could?"

Kai looked uncomfortable at the request. "I... it... well, I really don't know how to say this without revealing details that shouldn't be revealed, on either front! I'm sorry, I've already made a mess of things, and I really can't be trusted to have that sort of conversation with Katherine. Please, allow me to focus... wait, I'm not upset with your request; the blame is on me for things I can't divulge."

Wendy was bewildered, utterly unsure of what Kai was trying to communicate. She patted his arm. "Kai, I'm not going to ask you to reveal anything you shouldn't. I know who your father is. It was just a suggestion, but hey, good luck tomorrow in the 'Mech contest. I think you'll win again, and I love seeing those other guys humbled."

She left him there, and went back to her dorm.

I just need to focus on myself. I don't think Katherine would get offended if I say something, but this isn't my business.

And yet… Wendy couldn't help but think Katherine was completely unaware of how her actions were making others perceive her. Didn't she owe it to her polite, but distant, roommate? She chewed on her lip, troubled by what she should do.

***

Tharkad City, Tharkad

District of Donegal, Lyran Commonwealth

November 20th 3046

Hitching a ride on a Command Circuit was the only reason my little excursion was possible without taking a truly ridiculous amount of time away from my schooling. I, of course, still continued my studies while shuttling between JumpShips and kept refining my presentation, which I would present to Erik Kappel and a few of his executives.

With me was the ever-reliable head of my protective detail, Agent Ainsworth. With her were four fellow team members who had been reactivated for my little trip. I was traveling to Tharkad, but despite the level of security in the capital of the Lyran Commonwealth, it wasn't nearly as strict as the closed-shop of the NAIS, which is why a full security team was with us.

Additionally, I had brought along a delightfully effective NAIS applied sciences researcher who provided not only institutional heft to my presentation but also served as the lead designer for my new artillery system. Nick Westfield was an unassuming, short man whose reddish beard and hair were closely shaven. The modularity of the platform had been solved by his idea, and I was happy to have him on the team.

Ainsworth and the team had transportation ready, and we arrived at the TharHes business office in the heart of Tharkad. Their actual 'Mech production facilities were on the outskirts of Weibetal. You couldn't put giant 'Mech and vehicle factories in the heart of a city of twenty million like Tharkad, but since all the movers and shakers were in the capital, that was where the executive team spent most of their days.

"Ah, Princess Katherine, it is an honor to meet you," Erik Kappel, CEO and Chairman of the Board of TharHes Industries, greeted me. Additional introductions were made, and I got down to business.

"You are the first, and preferably the only, 'Mech manufacturing company I'm sharing this with. I present to you a brand-new artillery weapon system of my own design: the Spitfire Cannon. This weapon system is similar to the Thumper Artillery Piece, but it has a lower effective range of only 9 kilometers, and within its standard firing range, it only does about 80% of the damage of the Thumper."

Erik smiled indulgently. "Ah, Princess Katherine, please forgive my question so early in your presentation, but why would we want to make an artillery system that is less effective?"

I smile, showing my teeth. "I'm glad you asked, Mr. Kappel. I have worked with the NAIS School of Engineering to make this weapon system attractive in two primary ways. The first is cost. By designing not only the weapon's specifications but also the way your factories would be set up, we have minimized costs. Additionally, by requiring only component parts already constructed on Tharkad, which can be purchased at in-system rates, we have cut the cost down to half that of the Thumper."

One of the executives was furiously pulling up information on his datapad. He looked up. "I don't think that is possible."

"Ah, but it is."

For several minutes, I delved into the weeds of the technical schematics and handed them to Westfield for more precise details to give to their machinists. I then tackled one of the major cost-saving components. "The way Inner Sphere combat doctrine uses artillery is in batteries, ranging in size from four to twelve, representing a company-level formation. Each artillery system has its own targeting computer. This is extremely wasteful when only one artillery piece needs it, since we can slave the others to the primary system. While this runs the risk of making the other pieces dead weight if the primary is taken out, our artillery batteries are so close together that the risk is minimal. When a unit is overrun, it's all or nothing."

Erik was nodding along and whispered something to his aide. I continued with the second winning piece of the puzzle. "The NAIS is home to the best weapons researchers and engineers in the Inner Sphere. I have worked with Mr. Westfield to create a fully modular and compartmentalized system that can be split into twenty component parts and travel separately. VTOLs could move this. Civilian trucks could move this. Infantry can move this, especially motorized infantry. The barrel length and weight are reasonable enough that moving the artillery batteries is far, far easier than with our current weapon systems."

I saw interest in his eyes. "We'll need to review this with our experts, but you've certainly intrigued me with the benefits here."

"I want to do more than that. I want you to understand the possibilities here. Our Regimental Combat Teams use a single battalion of artillery and typically five regiments of infantry. Some infantry regiments, particularly motorized ones, will have a detachment of artillery as support. Now, imagine if each infantry regiment had a company of artillery available to them through the Spitfire Cannon. Infantry serve a variety of purposes on the battlefield. They secure locations, help establish fortifications, provide security for MechWarriors and high-level personnel. They can sweep for mines, provide spotters for artillery, and special forces infantry can conduct high-level infiltration and sabotage missions, etcetera, etcetera."

I leaned forward.

"But they can't truly fight 'Mechs. Oh, we can give them Inferno SRM systems, but the casualty rates are sky-high, and only the best of the best can be counted on to take on infantry vs. 'Mech confrontations. At most, they can augment other 'Mechs or serve as a distraction. Armed with the Spitfire Cannons… now, suddenly, you add nearly two battalions of artillery into the mix, and your RCTs outperform RCTs that don't have this weapon system. All at a reasonable price." I appealed here to the potential size of the market. "Your potential customer base is so much larger, and planetary militias will also be interested. Not to mention the killing you'll make supplying the munitions designed specifically for the Spitfire Cannon every time they are used in battle."

I had him sold.

"Assuming all this checks out, I believe we can make a deal. How are you looking to structure such an agreement?" Eric asked.

"For the price of the system design, continued assistance by NAIS experts, and a truly silo-breaking start-to-finish combination of our talents – scientists who created the weapon, working with engineers who put the production mechanics in place, workers within the factory, and the end-users of the technology working in concert to continuously improve it – we would be looking for a board seat and a 5% stake in your company. While this may seem like a lot, I've analyzed your sales numbers, and if successful, this would increase your profits by 25%."

Erik was very taken aback. "I don't think that will be doable, perhaps for a .5% stake and an advisory position…"

"1% for what was described above, with stretch targets that, should they be met, will have a laddered structure based on total sales, up to a total of no greater than 5%," I countered.

The CEO conferred briefly with his staff.

"We can put something together, but they will be very difficult stretch goals over the next 10 years. It will have to begin with a 0.5% equity stake in the company. The proposal you've outlined shows a rather limited margin compared to existing artillery platforms. If I may be so bold as to say, without your personal connections with the decision makers in the AFFC, these targets cannot be hit."

I wanted TharHes Industries because they were good at what they do and had recently expanded their facilities, meaning production could begin sooner rather than later. Even if I convinced Defiance Industries or Corean Enterprises to buy the design, it would be years before they could bring their factories online, as they already had existing contracts for that manufacturing space. With TharHes, however, the first Spitfire Cannons would be rolling off the assembly line by the time I graduated. Erik likely assumed I had an 'in' with AFFC high command based on my parents ruling the Federated Commonwealth.

"So long as those targets are based on orders and not production, I believe we have an accommodation. Have your experts review it. We'll have contracts ready for signature whenever you are ready. Mr. Westfield will remain on Tharkad and begin working with your machinists to design the optimal configuration of the equipment."

I stood and shook hands with the man. We were in business.

***

Avalon City, New Avalon

Crucis March, Federated Suns

March 1st 3047

"With regards to new projects, the industrial factories on Loxley are up and running. Norse-Storm BattleMechs is now operational. Their new design, the 100-ton Devastator Assault BattleMech, is their flagship 'Mech," Justin Allard read off.

"Finally, remind me of its specs," Hanse asked.

"Using much of the technology from both the Helm Memory Core and the reverse engineering of Old Star League designs found on Hoff, it is truly a frightening 'Mech. It boasts an XL Engine and Double Heat Sinks. It is armed with two Gauss Rifles, two PPCs, and four medium lasers. Its power at range is unmatched in direct-fire scenarios, and it is protected by eighteen and a half tons of Durallex Heavy Armor."

Hanse shook his head in wonder. "Do you think Victor will want one for his graduation?"

Justin grinned. "No, your son has logged more hours on the Victor than all other 'Mechs combined. I think his heart is set on it."

"How is Victor doing at the Nagelring?" he asked.

"Smashing records. He's had some difficulty fitting in with the others. Your son's first instinct is to think that anyone attempting to befriend him is a sycophant or social climber. Just because he is correct most of the time doesn't mean it's healthy." Justin paused. "He's polite enough about it, but I would say he's made no close bonds with anyone."

Hanse nodded. His son was nearing adulthood; he would have to figure out on his own how to strike the right balance. He was proud of him and his accomplishments, particularly how effective Victor was in piloting a 'Mech.

"Katherine, on the other hand… she's doing well, but her attempt at excelling in two programs has seemingly stretched her to her limit. Her 'Mech skills have deteriorated, and she's missed quite a bit of class time. I've looked into it, and she managed to test her way out of several mandatory programs, but it's impacted her ability to connect with her peers, some of whom believe she is getting favorable treatment."

Hanse parsed Justin's words and honed in on what mattered to him. "You say her 'Mech skills have deteriorated? That doesn't make sense. She was piloting a 'Mech better than some of our elite units. Her gunnery skills weren't quite so spectacular, but still at skilled veteran status. Something is off."

"Lack of sleep? Pressure? Lack of practice?" Justin offered as possible explanations.

"I know she took a break for a month to visit that industry executive to pitch her design. I understand they've brokered a deal?" Hanse waved his hand. "Wait, before getting into that, make a note. I want a detailed deep dive done on her 'Mech simulator runs. Make a copy of all her Combat Logs and Tactical Recordings; I'll want to see what's going on myself."

"Understood, and as to the second matter, I was going to get to that. The Spitfire Cannon is a remarkable piece of technology that provides some interesting tactical applications. It isn't cost prohibitive, either. The AFFS has ordered two battalions' worth of them for testing in the field. NAIS has also ordered a battalion of them, likely for training purposes for artillery specialists."

Hanse knew that Justin was making an educated guess. He could, of course, find out for certain why the NAIS wanted them – so long as they remained within the generous budget provided to them, it wasn't an issue.

"Three worlds have ordered company-sized units. In short, for an opening design run, it is doing quite well, but will not break even unless we see favorable results and secure a large order."

Hanse had looked over his daughter's design. It was an interesting application of localized magnetic frequencies that allowed seamless connection between separated parts, enabling the quick take-down and redeployment of the system. He wanted to support his daughter, and he could easily do so, but he wasn't going to compromise the strength of the AFFC.

"We will see how it does in field testing, but no additional orders should be placed at this time. Next, I will speak with Katherine. I'll let her know that her month-long break was an exception and that she should re-focus on her studies. But we will also be planning to run the exchange program and send her to the Nagelring for a year, while we send Victor here to join the NAMA cadre. Then, they will return to their original schools to complete their final year."

Justin frowned, "That may impact her College of Engineering work."

"So it will, but she's quite literally already designed a weapons system. If they play hardball and say she can't complete the program despite that, you can pay the Dean a visit, but I don't think it will come to that."

"Agreed."

They moved on to additional updates.

"Peter has begun 'Mech simulator training, but so far, he is not proving to be as exceptional as your two older children. He is not below average and remains eager to get more simulator time."

A few other updates were provided as well. Candace was in full remission and was working on reforming the St. Ives military. The St. Ives Janissaries would be a brigade-sized unit, or three regiments, but it would integrate at the company level, meaning a lance of BattleMechs could be supported by a lance of support vehicles and platoons of specialized infantry. It was a variation of an RCT, but smaller and nimbler. The AFFC currently had two RCTs stationed and effectively 'on loan' to the St. Ives Compact to deter any predation from the Capellan Confederation while the St. Ives Compact established its own military.

The experimental Hardened Armor was ready for testing as well. Hanse was dubious about it after reading the reports, but the NAIS thought it was worth testing in the field. It provided superior protection but made the 'Mech or vehicle slower and more difficult to pilot. Ran Felsner was excited about it and had already pushed for the next armored regiment to be equipped with the Hardened Armor.

Finally, there was the rare breakthrough outside of the NAIS. Kyoto College, in the Lyran half of the Federated Commonwealth, had developed Myomer Armor, an armor that could be used for infantry. It was hideously expensive to create, so applying it to infantry regiments would be rare. However, Justin said the tactical teams of the FCIS were drooling over its potential use.

GDP numbers were up, technology was advancing, and his children were doing well. Slowly but surely, the Federated Commonwealth was coming together.

A choice is coming soon. Do I give one last push in the next 5 to 10 years to fulfill my lifelong dream of uniting the Inner Sphere under one rule, or do I hand a prosperous, stable, and advancing state to Victor and leave him to face that destined battle?