Unforeseen Consequences

==Description==
This is a character driven drama of a young woman's story persevere through early days of the Clan Invasion.
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==Story==
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===Chapter 1===
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Girl's Locker Room
Vipaava High School
Vipaava, Free Rasalhague Republic
12th September, 3048
Local Afternoon
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Denise looked down at Oliver Kempler. He had tried asking her out. Bold of him. But the kid was the very definition of a nerd and even in the 31st Century High School was divided into cliques and Denise was part of the Jocks clique. So she had lured him into the Girl's Locker room to teach him a lesson.
She let him approach. He was scrawny and much shorter than her so she had no trouble grabbing him and forcing him into the shower and cranked the cold water tap wide open.
"Stay in your lane nerd." Denise sneered as she shook the water off her arms.
As she walked out she was sure she had heard gentle sobbing.
She grabbed her bag and headed home.
When she got home her parents gave her a stare that let her know she had gone too far.
"Denise, what the hell?" Her father Samuel scolded her.
"You realize Oliver's family owns the factory where your father works?" Her mother Jasmine added.
"Oh..." Denise gasped out in realization.
"That's all you have to say?" Her father's stare was making her squirm.
"I never realized. Oh god, I'm going to have to make it up to him somehow." Denise was realizing the scope of the consequences to her actions.
"He's now so terrified of you he's insisting on changing schools." Jasmine shook her head.
"We've had to make a lot of promises to keep this from blowing up." Samuel sighed.
Denise understood immediately. Her father was also the employee union rep. He'd have to give up this position, which would have a lot of fallout that would not be seen until much later.
"I'll drop off the teams so I can get a job." Denise tried to offer.
"No. We have no choice but to sign you up for military school. Jobs are incompatible for that." Samuel shook his head.
Denise felt her stomach fall and she felt her legs almost go out from under her.
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===Chapter 2===
Student Assembly Area
Vipaava Juvinile Military School
Vipaava, Free Rasalhague Republic
13th September, 3048
Local Morning
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"Cadet Denise Collins. You have the look of an athlete. What sports do you play?" A dog faced brick of a blonde woman wearing Kungesarme Sergeant stripes with the name tape showing Niemin.
"Basketball and Fastpitch softball mostly, sometimes volleyball for a change of pace Sergeant." Denise snapped back.
"Good. I need a cleanup hitter on the fast pitch team and you look a good candidate. Keep your nose clean and your grades up and when it is season we'll talk." Sergeant Niemin said gruffly.
"Cadet. I am your roommate, Senior Cadet Ilia Olafsdotter. Grab your gear and follow me." Denise was almost unaware of the other person in front of her.
"Yes, Senior Cadet, Sergeant." Denise was already hating the formality.
She grabbed her bags and followed Ilia.
As she walked the ring of gunfire from the practice range filled the air.
Denise dreaded that part. As much as she was a jock something about guns had always made her feel uneasy.
Eventually Ilia lead her into a brick building and up a flight of stairs. A duty station with a bored looking Korpral manning it was the first thing Denise noticed. Their room was right next to his station.
"This is our room. You bring a male Cadet in here and you will be disciplined, possibly expelled. As you can see we're right next to the duty station. So good luck. The windows don't open. The HVAC is pretty good but come January it has a little trouble keeping up. Showers, chow hall, and laundry are all on the other side of the hall. Downstairs is class rooms. Since you are a late arrival you'll be tested for potential placement after I finish your tour and you get fitted for your uniform." Ilia said as she opened the door.
"I'll keep that in mind Senior Cadet." Denise had spent a lot of last night working on making sure she knew how to address the people here to make her life at least a little easier.
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Class room
Local Evening
Denise stood at attention as the Lojtnant that had overseen her test finish going over it and waited for the computer to finish it's own analysis.
"Well, Cadet, looks like you scored high in the medical portions. I'll make the notes for which classes to put you in. Go get some chow then get some rest. We're going to be putting you through the ringer soon enough. Dismissed." The Lojtnant said from his desk.
"Yes, Sir." Denise felt a bit of weight lift off her.
She felt a bit of relief. A glimmer of hope filled her heart that she just might be able to get through this school and out of the military in one piece.
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===Chapter 3===
Denise's room
Vipaava Juvinile Military School
Vipaava, Free Rasalhague Republic
13th September, 3048
Lights Out
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Denise was certain the only reason she could even move right now was because of how much she had been involved in sports already in her life.
She felt her aching body slowly respond to her commands to get changed to go to bed.
As soon as she had everything squared away she laid down and sleep came quickly.
Then the damn bugle calls to rouse her from bed woke her.
It was still dark out. But the clock on the wall brought her back to reality. She'd been asleep for six hours already.
"Fu...." Denise started but caught herself when Ilia gave her a warning look.
Her body was still sore this morning but was not as sluggish as it was last night.
Soon enough she was dressed and her bed made. The Sergeant Niemin had already given her hell when the coin she used failed to bounce off the sheets and blankets without moving them when she came by yesterday. Denise could tell the coin was unusually large. Larger than anything she had seen before. She knew better than to protest though.
Today she had made sure to pull everything as tight as she could but she knew she was out of time when she heard the heavy footfalls of Sergeant Niemin coming up the stairs.
With no choice she stood at attention at the foot of her bed.
"Morning, Cadets." Sergeant Niemin entered the dorm room.
She looked the two teenage girls up and down. Then around the room. With a look of approval she fished the coin out of her pocket. Sergeant Niemin looked pleased with how it bounced off Ilia's bed. She scooped up the coin and dropped it on Denise's bed. The top blanket moved under the coin's impact. It was less than yesterday.
"Better. If this were real basic I'd be making you do that again until you got it right but fortunately this isn't and you are new. But my tolerance for such things will not last forever. For now though I need to finish my inspections. After getting a chance to more thoroughly read your file I have something special planned for you later Cadet Collins." Sergeant Niemin gave a wicked smile.
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===Chapter 4===
Gymnasium
Vipaava Juvinile Military School
Vipaava, Free Rasalhague Republic
13th September, 3048
Local Time Afternoon
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Denise was glad to have had the small break her morning classes offered but Sergeant Niemin had unveiled her surprise.
"Since Cadet Collins is a late transfer we're doing things a bit different today. We're doing some hand to hand and grappling exercises. In the ring with you Cadet Collins. I need to see how much I need to unteach you before I can teach you proper." Sergeant Niemin kept an even tone.
Denise grimaced as she moved onto the mats at the indicated line.
"Now for your opponent. Cadet Jarlson." Sergeant Niemin smiled as a particularly large male Cadet got up.
At first Denise thought he might have been another instructor he was that much larger than the other Cadets. As he walked up to the mat Denise suddenly felt much smaller than she had ever felt before. She'd always been a bit bulky and well built for a girl as she could physically dominate most of the boys at her old school but now she saw just how much reality could kick you in the teeth.
As the Cadet approached the mats Sergeant Niemin whispered something to him that made him smile.
He took his position opposite from her.
"Cadet Collins your objective is to force Cadet Jarlson out of the ring or pin him for three seconds by any means at your disposal. Cadet Jarlson your objective is to prevent this for three minutes. Start... Now." Sergeant Niemin barked.
Denise tried to get to the boy's legs at first, hoping she could get him off his feet and carry him back far enough with her momentum but her opponent put his hands in her shoulder blades and gave her a face full of mat.
What came next was three solid minutes of humiliation as her opponent began obviously toying with her. Everything she tried he just batted away or put her in the mat. It wasn't even close to being fair.
She lay there more exhausted then she had ever been before.
"Enough." Sergeant Niemin finally said after what felt a lot longer than three minutes.
She walked over and bent down next to Denise.
"Let that be a lesson. There is always going to be someone bigger and stronger. You did not learn that lesson by now because you are a city kid who only played at having to work and train. Rural folk like Cadet Jarlson there? Their entire lives are spent having to truly work and train. Which makes physical specimens out of them that you obviously have never had to deal with. Now you are entering a profession where they are common and biology has dealt you the additional handicap of being female. Our enemies will not take mercy on you for that. Perhaps if you had not bullied the youngest son of the most important man on this world I would not have had to teach you that lesson. Now the next lessons will be me teaching you how to leverage what advantages you do have so that if you do have to fight off someone like Cadet Jarlson, or bigger, you will have a chance to survive. Now get up. We have much work to do." Sergeant Niemin said quietly enough that Denise was certain no one else could hear.
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Denise's dorm
A bit before lights out
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As Denise readied herself for bed the sting of today's lesson was still wracking her mind.
Ilia was visiting another Cadet down the hall for what was supposedly a study session but Denise was pretty sure it was for another purpose as it would have been just as easy for the other Cadet to come study here.
Still Denise knew it would be best to keep her mouth shut about that one way or the other. The school took a dim view on student relationships overall but it was clear the students had figured out ways to skirt that enough that as long as it did not get out of hand the Kommandant and instructors were willing to look the other way.
Ilia came in as Denise finished changing.
"Today was pretty rough for you wasn't it?" Ilia broke the silence.
"Yeah. It sucked." Denise answered.
"If it makes you feel any better a lot of the students here have had similar lessons. This is a military school after all. A lot of the students here are screw ups whose parents or even the courts think need some military discipline to straighten them out." Ilia smiled.
"Is that why you're here?" Denise asked.
"Sort of. I'm a war orphan that no one wanted so I got stuck here because no one could figure out anything better to do with me." Ilia answered.
"39 or Ronin War?" Denise asked.
"Ronin. Had some rough years there with my parents but I'd trade just about anything to have those back. How did you end up here?" Ilia sighed.
Denise felt her heart sink. The past few days seemed tailor made to drive home just how much of a spoiled brat she had been.
"I bullied someone I really shouldn't have." Denise finally answered.
"Ouch. No wonder Sergeant Niemin had it in for you today. She grew up bullied like crazy. Enough downers, time to get some sleep." Ilia forced a smile.
Denise was still troubled but she was also too physically exhausted to stay awake despite her mind wanting to dwell on unpleasant thoughts.
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Ball field
Vipaava Juvinile Military School
14th October, 3048
Local Evening
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Denise watched the wind up and timed her swing. The ball went sailing and she took off.
She saw it clear the fence. The game was over before she got to first base but she still put her all into running the bases. No easy days and no slacking.
It was a good start to parent's weekend.
Denise celebrated with her teammates. Most were just as eager to see their parents as she was so it did not drag on too long.
As soon as she got free she had little trouble finding them.
"That's my girl." Samuel hugged her.
"Thanks for coming Dad." Denise didn't care about anything other than the warm embrace she was enjoying from her father.
"Now don't leave me out." Jasmine enveloped her instead.
"It's good to see you." Denise almost felt herself cry.
"You too." Her parents said in near unison.
"They seem to be feeding you well." Samuel smiled.
Denise could sense her parents were holding something back but she dismissed it as she was just glad to see them again.
She lead the way to the outdoor tables that had been setup for the event. The weather was perfect.
That was when she noticed it. She didn't see her father's classic ground car in the parking lot. There was no way he'd drive something else to an event like this if there wasn't any other choice.
"The car okay Dad? I don't see it in the lot." Denise knew how important it was to her father.
"Had to sell it honey. Things are getting tight at the factory." Samuel was doing his best to not let on that there was more to it but Denise could tell.
"It's my fault isn't it? You already lost the union rep position because of me and now you're losing out on the choice shifts and overtime because of what I did aren't you?" Denise felt the guilt well up inside her.
"Just bad timing is all I swear." Samuel didn't sound too convinced himself.
"Now enough of all this doom and gloom. We're together as a family again. We can get through anything as long as we have that." Jasmine was much more confident.
Denise had to admit she felt a bit better after her mother's chiding.
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===Chapter 5===
Student Mustering Grounds
Vipaava Juvinile Military School
Vipaava, Free Rasalhague Republic
2nd September, 3048
Local Morning
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Denise had hit a sudden growth spurt and needed another uniform again and was chaffing at the new one.
"The rumors you have been hearing are true. We're being invaded. In accordance with the national emergency acts and planetary ordinances you are all being drafted. We don't know how long we have before they hit us but we are certain they will. So we're not wasting time so we can get you incorporated into our militia and Kungarme units on world. We will defend this world with honor an integrity. May god be with us all." The school Kommandant addressed the gathered students.
Denise had already come to the conclusion that if she was going to get a college degree she would need to serve a tour with either the militia or the Kungsarme itself and take advantage of their incentives programs to pay for it but being drafted like this made that a pipe dream.
"Senior Cadet Collins, I know this is not good news. But you have enough credits from here I think they will at least assign you as a combat medic. That may not be much of a mercy though. Yes if our invaders have any sense of the rules of war you will not be shot at as much but you will see the consequences of war first hand. Someone needs to give it to you straight." Sergeant Niemin walked up next to Denise.
"Well at least I have an excuse not to carry a weapon." Denise tried to lighten the mood.
Sergeant Niemin shook her head and walked away.
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Lion's Den
Vipaava, Free Rasalhague Republic
August, 3050
Local Morning
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Denise shook her head. The fools fought too much like samurai. The occupation of the Draconis Combine had instilled that in the defenders.
Now here she was running from fighting position to fighting position to help the wounded as they were being cut down.
As she slapped a sedative patch on a trooper she saw a mechwarrior eject from their mech and could tell they would come down near her position.
Fortunate smiled on them both as they came down behind a large rock outcropping.
She bounded over and started assessing her patient.
A male. His neurohelmet was clearly compromised on the left side with shrapnel wounds and what looked to be burn wounds covering his left shoulder and upper arm. His name tape said Kempler.
She got the neurohelmet off as carefully as she could.
"Oliver?" Denise was shocked.
He had grown up. The right half of his face was handsome enough to trigger her teenage hormones but the left half would have made her vomit if she hadn't already gotten that out of her system earlier in the day.
"Denise. Damn. Small world?" Oliver managed.
"I owe you such a huge apology." Denise decided to give him a kiss on the cheek.
"If it were not for you I never would have found out I was mechwarrior material. All the good that did me. Still I can't really blame you too much." Oliver tried to smile.
"Enough now." Denise rummaged through her bag to find her last sedative patch.
She'd been so busy helping people that her medpack was nearly empty now.
Loud thumps of something heavy, but not Battlemech heavy, approached.
She spun around to see two huge metallic figures. The kind of thing that would make her nightmares worse for weeks to come.
One raised a weapon at her the other put it's clawed hand on the barrel.
Right now Denise could almost believe the rumors that these were aliens of some sort but how they seemed to be interacting gave them a human element.
The other gestured at Oliver next.
"He's my patient. So if you want to kill him you'll have to go through me." Denise growled at them but she knew it was an empty gesture as all she had was a bag of blood plasma and a few more bandages.
Even through all the metal this seemed to amuse the two metallic creatures.
"All units. Stand down. We're surrendering to these Clan Ghost Bears, whoever they are. May god have mercy on our souls." Denise didn't recognize the voice but even from where she was at there was no denying the battle was over.
To her it didn't matter.
"Your unit fought with honor and you have spirit. We respect that even if you are a freeborn. It is a shame you are not a warrior. Otherwise I might just have to claim you." A somewhat synthetic masculine voice came from one of the metallic figures.
Denise shuddered as she remembered the warnings of Sergeant Niemin.
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===Chapter 6===
The day after the battle
Interrogation room
Vipaava, Former Free Rasalhague Republic
August, 3050
Local Morning
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A small Asian man in Comstar robes sat across from Denise.
"I apologize for the surroundings, but it is a necessity brought on by circumstance. The Order has stepped in to serve as an intermediary between the invaders and the locals in the hopes we can avoid further senseless conflict. I am Adept Jira Yanabe. The invaders asked that I handle your interview personally. It seems you have made an impression on them." His voice was soft and smooth.
"Not sure how. I didn't fire a single shot." Denise shook her head.
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In the observation room
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Point Commander Lief looked through the one way mirror at the girl in the other room.
"You look troubled, trothkin. What is it?" One of his Elemental warriors, Sarah, spoke up.
"I have read that girl's file and watched her in battle personally. She stood her ground to protect her patient against myself and Warrior Hansen. She shows bravery and spirit. If it were not for the fact that she is a freeborn and has a noted aversion to weapons she would be everything that we venerate as the best of us. But she is likely destined for the scientist caste due to her medical expertise. In a way that seems a waste." Lief shook his head.
"It is a little late but perhaps you could still claim her as a Bondsman. I am certain no one would mind too much for the delay." Sarah studied the young woman.
"No. As tempting as that would be she shows no signs of aptitude as a Mechwarrior and as conventional infantry she would be used as little more than fodder. She is on the large side for a freeborn female but she would never qualify for Elemental status. If she had some pre-existing background in piloting aircraft she could be a candidate for an Aerospace pilot. It frustrates me that there is no good answer for what to do with her in our society as any option is frankly a waste in some sense." Lief hung his head.
"I think I understand." Sarah had picked up a noteputer and was reading through Denise's file.
A silence fell over the room that seemed to hang there for an oppressive eternity.
"It may be worse than that. We need to have her genetics checked." Sarah said after a moment.
"What is it?" Lief looked at Sarah.
"I am not surprised that you missed this in her file but look at her maternal grandmother's maiden name." Sarah handed over the noteputer.
"By the founder. Even if it is distant if this is true this could complicate things further. In a way I hope it is just a coincidence." Lief did his best to contain his outburst.
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===Chapter 7===
Former Militia Commander's office
Vipaava, Former Free Rasalhague Republic
3rd September, 3050
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Denise was utterly dwarfed by the man on the other side of the desk. It made her exceptionally uneasy. Especially so since most of the others had been released to go back to their lives. A few were still in medical care. But there was no clear reason why she had been kept here so long.
She'd been told what he was. Something about a trueborn Elemental. She didn't understand before now what that meant. She knew she had to be on her best behaviour or else this man could easily break her and there wasn't a damn thing she could do about it despite everything Sergeant Niemin had taught her.
"Do you know why you are here?" The man's deep voice almost shook her bones as it passed through her despite how quietly he spoke.
"No sir." Denise answered.
"Then I shall explain. It seems you have a genetic link to one of the most important people in our history, Hans Jorgenson. It is remote to be sure. This has caused a great deal of debate amongst us. There are those who question if the link is strong enough but none deny it's existence. So I have decided to speak with you myself. I am Star Commander Torrin Jorgensen. How you answer my questions will determine a great deal about your future." The large man gestured for Denise to sit.
Denise took the offered seat.
"I have read your file. But I want you to tell me in your own words about the incident with Oliver Kempler that started you down the warrior's path." Torrin carefully grabbed a pitcher of water and filled two glasses.
"It was a terrible mistake on my part. I had pre-judged him and in the ignorance of youth I did something I will always regret. His family could have done so much worse to mine in retribution but they saw I just needed some discipline. What was really unfair is that the other workers at the factory turned on my father thinking he was now compromised by the factory's owner. My actions caused a great hardship on my family." Denise wanted to look down at the floor in shame but she knew she needed to keep eye contact with Torrin.
"There are those who would say you were justified. What do you say about that?" Torrin's gaze made her uncomfortable.
"All he wanted was a date. What I did to him traumatized him. I could have found a much better way to just simply say no." Denise took a glass and sipped some water.
"I see. Your file contains something I find confusing. It seems you had expressed a desire to join your world's military voluntarily but you were pressed into service anyway. Can you explain this contradiction?" Torrin clasped his hands and leaned onto the desk resting his elbows on top and his chin in his hands.
"I wanted to go to college and the only way I could do that with what happened to my father because of me the only way was to take advantage of an incentive program where if I served I would get a large portion of the cost paid for by the militia. Before I could though you came. So I was called up." Denise set her glass back on the desk.
"You do not care for being a warrior do you?" Torrin asked flatly.
"In a way I know I needed it. It saved me from becoming a thoughtless brute who knew nothing of the real world. I also know how horrible it can be. Yet despite that I find if I ask myself if I want to continue serving I can say yes if it means protecting my family." Denise felt a wave of confidence wash over her.
"Thank you. You may go back to your room now." Torrin waved his hand.
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Torrin's perspective
He watched the young woman walk out.
"That was increadibly unhelpful." Point Commander Lief said as he walked in from a neighboring room.
"I know. Her views are more Warden than Crusader and there is potential there. With the Wolves finding someone with a link to one of their founders and making efforts to integrate him, how can we do less for one who is linked to our very founding Khan?" Torrin shook his head.
"I saw the report. Her link is not as direct. Unlike their Ward founder Hans left no children behind in the Exodus. Nor did his brother Cal. But it seems there was a third Jorgenson sibling not in our records that did stay behind and continue the line here." Lief had the same look of doubt.
"Still it is enough that we cannot lose track of her. We erred by not making her a bondsman but too much time has passed now to rectify that mistake." Torrin sighed.
"There may be a way. If we test her ourselves perhaps we can find something that these barbarians missed in their evaluations that can give us a way to keep her in our grasp." Lief looked at his superior.
"It is a good idea. We will have to do that with the populace at some point anyway. We may as well start with her. Plus we have time and I find it unlikely that the Wolves would be so foolish as to make their new pet a Warrior. It would take something rather exceptional for that to happen." Torrin let a faint smile creep on his face.
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===Chapter 8===
Former Vipaava Militia Base
Vipaava, Former Free Rasalhague Republic
5th September, 3050
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Torrin Jorgenson stared at the preliminary results of Denise's evaluation. It was still incredibly unhelpful to the current debate one way or the other. She showed just enough natural ability that had gone untapped that if she had been trained for it sooner she might have made a passable Mechwarrior or even a pilot but she was so far behind her potential peers that would be difficult at best to get her past such gaps. It was clear that it would just drive the debates along the same stalemated lines that existed before the tests.
Trueborn hubris had kept anyone from taking her Bondsman and now that mistake was haunting them as the Wolves had the foresight to claim their find as a Bondsman. If someone had in a way that would make things easier.
He watched Denise out his window. She was keeping up with her physical conditioning. It was a welcome sight. Most of the other warriors that had defended this world had allowed the defeat to steal their warrior's pride from them and were only putting in the bare minimum required of them before they were allowed to return to their homes. She was one of the few who had not allowed defeat to deter her in such a way.
"I still wonder if it is a warrior's resolve or if it simply the fact she has little other choice." Torrin found himself saying out loud.
She was a medic and not a combat soldier during the battle after all. She did not actually engage in battle. But the bravery she showed to go from position to position to deliver aide to her comrades with no concern for her own safety. There was no hesitation. No flinching. Even when some weapons fire came close to her.
As he watched Denise complete another lap on the training field he knew he'd be called forward for another attack soon. The permanent garrison was starting to already transition in and take over for his Warriors.
Some had joined Denise on the track in their own training.
It was clear they were trying to show her up.
Torrin allowed a smile to creep on his face.
She kept her pace.
For the next several minutes he allowed himself to enjoy the spectacle.
Yet the young woman seemed unphased.
Then he understood.
She had allowed the others to exhaust themselves in excessive displays before she showed her full ability. What made it even more impressive was that she had already completed several laps before they had joined.
"It seems even our evaluations can miss something." Torrin had to admit he was starting to admire the young woman despite the fact that she was a freeborn.
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===Chapter 9===
Former Vipaava Militia Base
Vipaava, Former Free Rasalhague Republic
6th September, 3050
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Denise was running laps again on the training field. This time the new arrivals were less interested in showing off and wasting their energy.
She doubted she could truly outlast the Elementals this time. This was the sort of thing they were obviously meant for. The Mechwarriors though. She felt better about her chances with them if they decided to try and upstage her again.
As she ran with them it dawned on her. These new arrivals were older than the others that she had been spending so much time with lately. She hadn't really noticed yesterday because was so focused.
Not that much older now that she was paying attention but enough it stood out.
So she stayed with them as best she could.
Today there was no banter, just people running.
She didn't have anything else to do. She couldn't leave. Her parents couldn't visit. So all she could do was train and study what books were available.
Still the reminder of competition yesterday was welcome.
Eventually the sun rose high enough to signal the end of the run. The looks she got from her new companions was grudging respect.
She could see Torrin in his office.
Soon enough someone had come to let her know he wanted to talk with her again.
"Now or do I have time to shower?" Denise asked before her soon to be escort said anything.
"Now." The man growled.
She nodded and started towards the door.
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Torrin Jorgenson's office
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"I must rejoin the invasion. We still have no clear answer for what to do with you. So I leave the choice to you. I can leave you here where you will likely languish on this world. If I bring you with me to tap the potential you show. You will be facing an uphill struggle the whole way and it is likely you will never return to this world." Torrin kept looking out the window.
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Denise paused in consideration for a moment.
"I have to stay. I can not make things right with my family by leaving them and risking never seeing them again." Denise finally answered.
"We in Clan Ghost Bear understand the bond of family better than the other Clans. So I understand. You have earned much respect from us. Even if you do not choose the path of the Warrior you are still an exemplar of many of our ideals. I will recommend to the new garrison commander that he should continue to allow you access to this base so that you may continue to train with our warriors. For now I wish you well. You may gather your belongings and return to your family." Torrin tried to hide his disappointment but Denise could see it on his face anyway.
Denise nodded before leaving his office.
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Torrin's perspective
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After Denise left Star Captain Desmond Tseng entered his office.
"I do not like the idea of leaving her behind and I had hoped she would be eager for the challenge of becoming a Warrior. Star Captain I ask you keep an eye on her nonetheless. She may never truly follow the Warrior's path but she is still important." Torrin looked the older Mechwarrior in the eye.
"She gave some of my more 'enthusiastic' warriors a much needed lesson in humility. That alone has earned my respect. I will do as you ask. Everything else about her makes her too important for us to abandon or lose track of. As such I shall allow her access here. I mean no disrespect but I could not help but hear what you said." Desmond Tseng nodded.
"Thank you." Torrin nodded.
"Tseng and Jorgenson have always had strong ties since our very founding. Plus the Wolves would be completely insufferable if they ever learned we have found someone with ties to one of our founders and allowed them to languish as something ordinary." Desmond smiled.
"Indeed they would." Torrin shook Desmond's hand.
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===Chapter 10===
Collins household
Vipaava, Former Free Rasalhague Republic
6th September, 3050
Hour Later
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Denise had decided to surprise her family. She quietly opened the door and stepped inside. Her father was in the kitchen cooking and her mother at the dinning room table. Both with their backs to her.
She moved as quietly as she could and hugged her mother from behind.
"WHAAA!" Jasmine screamed.
Samuel turned around from the stove.
Her father came out of the kitchen faster than seemed humanly possible as he joined in on the hug.
"They finally let me come home." Denise said softly as she enjoyed the moment.
"About time. I'm so sorry. If I hadn't made you go to that school..." Her father trailed off.
"They probably would have drafted me anyway. Besides as rough as it was it taught me a lot and put into perspective how much of a spoiled brat I was." Denise moved her arms from her mother to her father.
"You two better let me up so I can get in on this proper." Jasmine said.
The hug was broken just long enough that Jasmine could stand and join the group hug.
"Go take care of your food dad before it burns. I am looking forward to some home cooking." Denise took in the smell of the warming food.
Samuel let go slowly of his daughter as he went back into the kitchen.
"Now sit." Jasmine commanded.
"It is good to be home." Denise sat at the table.
"I'm never letting you go again." Jasmine clamped onto Denise.
"The only argument you will get from me is so I can keep getting my morning exercise in. I've gotten too used to it." Denise smiled.
"I guess. I don't think I can stand the idea of you being caught up in a battle again." Jasmine scrunched her face.
"These Ghost Bears are a bit nuts. They think being a Warrior is the best thing you can be. They even tried to recruit me. I mean if it meant I could protect you two I would do it in a heartbeat but actually going out there on their Crusade? No thanks." Denise smiled.
"That seems odd. I mean as your father I know what you can do and from that perspective I can sort of understand but you're not even 17 yet and not fully trained in anything. So why do they want you?" Samuel brought the food to the table from the kitchen.
"Seems mom's mom is related to someone rather important in their history. A Hans Jorgenson. They referred to him as their founding Khan. Still not really sure what that means." Denise answered.
"It's an old family story. But yes my mother told me stories about how her great great great great great uncles went with Alexander Kerensky on his so called Exodus. You know what this means? These are the descendants of the Star League Defense Force returned." Jasmine was a little shocked.
"Well then. I wish you had let me know you were coming home, I would have made your favorite." Her father dished up a plate for each of them and passed them out.
On the plate was her least favorite of her father's cullinary creations. Potatoes with fish gravy. When she was younger she found it absolutely horrid. An experimental bite revealed that it was still terrible and turned her stomach but she didn't care because her Dad made it for her and she was home now.
--------
===Chapter 11===
Collins household
Vipaava, Former Free Rasalhague Republic
8th September, 3050
3:34 AM
--------
Denise sat up in bed covered in a cold sweat.
Why was she having nightmares about what she had seen now? Why not at the base? It would have made sense there, not here.
Oliver's mangled face was refusing to leave her mind's eye.
That must be it. I'm home and now I'm torturing myself with reminders of how all this started.
The revelation caused her heart to sink.
Denise got up and decided to get changed. It was still very early and dark out but she knew going back to sleep was not an option.
As soon as she got outside she started running.
The gentle rain coming down felt refreshing.
There was no ground car traffic for her to worry about so she just kept running.
The sun was starting to come up and the rain ceased.
She hadn't even really planned on it but once she saw where she was it made all too much sense.
The militia base. I really ran that far haven't I? What am I doing?
Denise felt compelled to continue on to the training field. The gate guard recognized her and just waved her through.
-----
Militia Commander's office
Two hours later
----
Denise studied the new garrison commander. He was not one of those freaks she had learned were called Elementals. He was much more, well not normal, but certainly less extreme. A Mechwarrior. Had to be.
"I am Star Captain Desmond Tseng. When I had learned you had returned I knew we should speak." Desmond's voice was much more soothing than Torrin's.
"Yes sir. I know I really should not be here." Denise answered.
"Do not be ridiculous. I think you are beginning to realize you can be no where else." Desmond shook his head.
"I...." Denise was at a lose for words.
Could he be right? I don't want to be away from my family but it is hard to explain the nightmares as anything other than a message that I can't be with them either.
"You are troubled by what you saw in your battle are you not? Contrary to what many of my fellow Warriors would have you believe we are not mindless brutes that can wade through the carnage of battle without it effecting us. Tell me." Desmond offered.
"I was only home for one night and I had nightmares. The one I can still clearly remember is the face of Oliver. The boy I bullied that became a Mechwarrior. He was the last person I rendered aide to before the surrender. I am certain he was lying to me and telling me what I wanted to hear because I was saving his life. Still it is hard to give any other meaning to these nightmares than that I do not believe myself worthy of being home." Denise could only look at the floor.
"There are those that would take issue with me saying that I understand but I do. It is clear. You have no stake in our crusade and feel you must redeem yourself. That is why you stayed. Yet staying is bringing you guilt." Desmond nodded.
"Yes. Now I do not know what to do." Denise looked into Desmond's eyes.
"Part of that is simple. We would have came and invaded your world even if you had not bullied this Oliver. It is my understanding that even before you had commited this act that you were a noted athlete. Exactly the kind of person that I am told the Inner Sphere would press into service anyway. Thus it is most likely you would have seen what you had seen no matter what. Except that you would have had no choice but to actually fight. That could have had far more consequences to it if that had come to pass. Yet by taking the path you did you have acquitted yourself in such a way that you have garnered much respect from those that would have otherwise dismissed you for being a freeborn. That you have a tie to our founding Khan on top of that has ensured we will not forget." Desmond did not break eye contact.
"So I am just supposed to get over it? That simple?" Denise almost scoffed.
"Yes. A wise man once told me something once that seems to apply here though. Just because it is simple does not make it easy." Desmond answered.
"Thank you. I should get home." Denise nodded.
"Think about what I have said and you are welcome here any time." Desmond waved her out of his office.
-----
===Chapter 12===
Vipaava Hospital
Vipaava, Former Free Rasalhague Republic
8th September, 3050
Local Noon
--------
Denise couldn't go home quite yet. She had to find out something for herself first.
To find that answer she had to come to the hospital.
She recognized a few of the patients. Most were people she had met via her father dragging her and her mother along to various social events hosted by either the factory or the workers themselves. A few though she recognized from somewhere else, which made her shudder.
"Sergeant Niemin. I did not expect to run into you here." Denise found herself standing at attention before the woman.
She was missing an eye now and had some fresh scars on her face and neck.
"I'm too stubborn to die. At least just yet. What brings you here, Cadet?" The woman said hoarsely.
"I came to see if Oliver Kempler is recovering alright and to find out if he actually blames me or not." Denise knew better than to commit even a lie of omission.
"So you seek absolution or condemnation. I have been where you are now. I wasn't much older than you when I began my service and the Ronin Wars broke out. So listen when I tell you that the only person you need forgiveness from is yourself. The only person who can condemn you is yourself. It is not like your act made him suddenly develop aptitude as a Mechwarrior. No, that was decided at birth." Sergeant Niemin was obviously having trouble speaking.
"But he might not have joined the military if I made a different choice." Denise tried to counter.
"And someone else could have bullied him and driven him down the same path or he choose it anyway for some other reason. Ultimately though it was still his choice. Now a pretty young lady like yourself should take this chance to go find some nice young man and figure out what kind of life you want together." Sergeant Niemin shook her head.
"I'm not pretty. Ilia was the pretty one." Denise thought about her former roommate.
Oh god, Ilia.
Denise found herself remembering coming across Ilia during the battle. She had graduated before the draft and had started at the local academy and was well on her way to becoming an Officer before the draft order went out and the invaders came. So she had been made a platoon leader.
Ilia was the one that had made her vomit. The young woman was a mangled mess after a SRM had found her fighting position.
How could I forget that... Denise wanted to cry but she dared not in front of Sergeant Niemin.
"You are right. I should go home. I need to start thinking about what to do for work here soon. I can not be a bum forever. You saw to that Sergeant." Denise saluted then turned to leave.
-----
Collins Household
About an hour later
----
Her parents were still in over protective mode she could tell but they at least held their silence as they rushed to hug her.
"Sorry. I guess I have a lot to work out still." Denise hugged her parents back.
"We know. We still don't like you running off like that without a note or anything. We can't even begin to imagine how horrible what you went through was." Jasmine said softly.
"I promise I will not just run off without leaving a note again." The group hug broke up finally.
"Good." Samuel nodded.
"Though I am going to have to figure out something for work soon. The stuff these Ghost Bears and Comstar are putting out about what we are going to have to start doing means I can not just keep sitting around here eating your food without contributing." Denise knew it was a delicate subject but it had to be said.
"Well that is a discussion we can have after dinner. Plus some of the stuff they are saying about University reforms might just let you go that route. Something to look into." Jasmine shook her head.
-----
===Chapter 13===
Collins Household
Vipaava, Former Free Rasalhague Republic
31st October, 3050
Local After Midnight
--------
Denise was still having the occassional night marebut that was not what woke her up this time.
Lately the house had been getting tagged with graffiti declaring them collaborators and rumors were spreading that she was sleeping with one of the invaders at the base.
Tonight was different though.
The door had been broken down and people were coming in the house.
As Denise sprang out of bed she could see three of them in the living room.
Without boots they didn't hear her foot falls as she blindsided the one closest to her. They went down under her weight and a quick sharp kick to his ribs as she got up seemed to be enough to take the wind and fight out of them. The second had a pry bar that they were readying to swing at her but she caught their arm on the upswing with her left and jabbed with her right in a series of quick but powerful blows to their now completely exposed side.
The third tried to grab at her before she could do anymore damage but she was able to pivot and deliver an elbow strike to their nose. She could feel it break under her strike.
The one with the pry bar tried to bring it down but with her left arm still binding theirs she was able to redirect and slow the swing enough that she could easily dodge it.
It left them completely open as she struck him on the chin with a powerful upward blow.
The third had recovered enough that this time he did grab a hold of Denise.
She let her knees bend just enough to off balance them and then straighten hard.
To their credit her assailant didn't let go as they toppled backwards.
The one with the pry bar came forward again but Denise drove a powerful kick into their groin as they had chosen their approach poorly.
"You can let go now and run for it or I can beat you to a pulp." Denise threatened.
"I like my chances." A masculine voice came from her assailant.
As bad as her situation seemed a simple fact was obvious. Whoever these people were they were not trained but she was.
She was able to bend down enough to bite deep and hard into a sleeved arm. It was enough that she was able to break free and spring to a kneeling position next to the man.
She grabbed his shirt then started pummeling his face.
The one with the pry bar had proven rather resilient as they staggered to their feet and came toward her again.
She let go of her current target and delivered a sweeping kick into pry bar's plant leg shin mid stride. She doubted she actually broke it but it was enough to take them off their feet again.
She grabbed the pry bar from the stunned grip and delivered a quick strike with it into their shoulder. There was no doubt something broke this time.
The three groaning attackers were finally done.
"Okay this is going to hurt." Denise said as she let her medic training take over and smile a wicked smile.
Her mother just gasped as she finally came out of her room.
The groans, shrieks, and whimpering only lasted a short while as Denise worked.
"Sorry about that. No sedative patches or painkillers. But if you lot don't move around too much you will not be in the hospital as long." Denise said as she turned to face her mother.
She hugged her mother.
"This is my fault. If did not spend so much time at the militia base getting my morning exercise in you and dad would not be getting targeted like this." Denise was glad in a way that her father was back to work at the factory and on night shift so he did not have to see this.
As they hugged Denise could sense her mother was trying to find words to deny it. To make her feel betterm, but this time it was the truth.
"They are not going to do anything now. So I am going to get changed into something more appropriate before the police get here." Denise broke the hug.
"Good idea. I think I can make sure they don't scurry off." Jasmine said.
One application of clothing later
It did not take long before the ambulances and police had come.
What was a surprise though was that Desmond Tseng had come as well.
"Star Captain. I am surprised to see you here." Denise found herself standing at attention before him out of reflex.
"I come as the bearer of ill news. It seems this was a coordinated attack as several of the workers at the factory attacked your father. His survival is in doubt." Desmond Tseng said flatly.
Denise was a mix of rage and grief that threatened to boil over her self control but she did not flinch.
She knew what she had to do to keep her parents safe. Assuming her father survived his injuries.
"I am sorry mom but I can not stay home any longer." Denise shook her head.
"Yes, you can." Jasmine spat.
"No. You and Dad have been paying the price of my actions long enough. There is only one way out that works long term. You and Dad have to condemn me and I must leave. Maybe some day everything will calm down enough that I can come back." Denise shook her head.
"I..." Jasmine stammered.
"I am ready now. It is the only way to protect them." Denise turned back to Desmond.
"Hold out your right arm. There will be those that may take issue with this but I do not care. It is overdue. Especially after defeating three intruders in unaugmented combat. I claim you as bondsman. Come. Before I challenge you in ways you can not possibly fathom I will grant you some time to visit your father." Desmond said as he slipped three cords on Denise's wrist.
-----
===Chapter 14===
Vipaava hospital
Vipaava, Former Free Rasalhague Republic
31st October, 3050
--------
Denise looked at the unconscious form of her father.
Jasmine was by his bead holding his hand.
"I find myself troubled by what you said to your parents earlier. Why would you have them denounce you?" Desmond said quietly.
"I know it will not ensure their safety if they do so, at least on it's own. But I can not be in two places at once. So the only choice is to buy them time. Which denouncing me will do." Denise answered as quietly.
"There is much for us to learn from one another it seems." Desmond still looked confused.
"My time is nearly up is it not?" Denise had to fight back her tears again.
"I am afraid so." Desmond nodded.
"I am sorry but I must go." Denise hugged her mother.
Breaking their hug was the hardest thing Denise had done so far in her life but she knew there was no other way forward now.
Thanks to her ties to Hans Jorgenson and what she had learned about Clan Ghost Bear when she was a prisoner, then guest as she kept up her training, had been more than enough to convince her that even if she tried to break away from them they would not cut ties with her. So she would still be a focus for the wrong kind of attention even then. Maybe not as much but her need to have routine and familiar surroundings had ensured that was no longer possible.
The trip back to the militia base was a welcome silence that seemed to go by entirely too fast as she was lost in thought.
She was shown to a billet.
Eventually her exhaustion overtook her depression and anxiety but she knew tomorrow would be a rough day.
------
Desmond's office
1st November, 3050
The next morning just before dawn
----
Denise stood at attention wishing she had some coffee in her system right now but knew such a luxury would be a rare thing going forward.
Desmond was clearly reading over her test results and service file again.
"I do not know how many times I have read these files and yet I still find them difficult to reconcile. But I think they are no longer entirely accurate. It is true you are still only going down this path now because of a reason our society does not normally allow for but I saw the results first hand of when you do act upon that reason. Three to one odds even if your enemies are not trained is sufficient odds to be recognized. Go join the Warriors for your morning exercise. After we shall begin working on your hand to hand skills further. Point Commander Sarah will see if your new found dedication is enough to see this path through." Desmond stood behind his desk, also at attention.
Denise nodded at the dismissal and headed out of the office.
-----
Training field
four hours later
Point Commander Sarah towered over Denise.
She had seen her around the base a few times but from the others she had learned that Sarah prefered doing her training in the evening so they had not met before today.
"Let us see what you have, little one." Sarah gave a wicked smile.
With the size advantage and the obvious strength advantage Denise knew it would be extremely unlikely for her to beat the Trueborn Elemental.
As she studied her opponent she noticed Sarah's left leg was a bit off compared to her right. Scars. She could see scars. At some point in the past Sarah's left leg must have taken quite significant injury based on how scared it was.
So Denise tried circling around Sarah in a way that Sarah would have to use her left leg as her plant leg more often to keep with Denise.
She dove in hoping she was fast enough but a blow between her shoulder blades knocked her to the ground.
"Not a bad idea, going for my obvious weakness like that. But others have tried the same. Now up and try again." Sarah barked.
Denise took a moment to steady her breathing after the powerful blow then tried the same circling tactic. She was annoyed at herself for even thinking she could put her shoulder into the leg. It was far too much of a rookie move.
This time she came in and used her fast pitch and soccer experience to slide in to deliver a solid kick to Sarah's left leg directly on the knee.
The giant monster of a woman did not fall and was bringing her fist down, fast.
Denise let her slide carry her past the blow, narrowly avoiding the hit. She tumbled forward and put everything she had into a kick into the back of Sarah's left knee. This time it did buckle.
"Better but not good enough." Sarah recovered and pivoted with more speed than should be possible for someone that size.
Denise rolled away from the counter blow that clipped her in the right shoulder.
Then Sarah managed to grab a hold of Denise.
Denise tried everything to break the giant woman's grip. Even resorting to biting her attacker.
"Unconventional but I suppose it could be effective in certain situations." Sarah said flatly as she hoisted Denise up one handed.
Denise knew what was coming but she dare not stop. Even thought she knew the match was already over.
She was slammed into the ground with enough force that the wind was knocked out of her.
"I see why the Star Captain has taken such an interest in you. You have a good combination of speed and strength. If you can keep that determination I can make you even more formidable than you are now." Sarah said flatly.
------
Desmond's Office
Desmond Tseng had watched the sparring match on the training field. He was glad to see that Denise had put up a good fight. The Spheroid training she had already received was nothing compared to Clan training and with the size difference there could be no other outcome. But what was welcome was that it had lasted longer than he had expected. Defeating a Trueborn Elemental in hand to hand combat was something that was difficult for Trueborn Mechwarriors such as himself to do. But this young freeborn woman had managed to get Sarah unbalanced, even if it was only for a moment.
"Star Captain, I have an urgent dispatch... We just got it from the Comstar HPG compound..." One of Desmond's Warriors came in his office pale and obviously having trouble composing himself.
"Out with it, Mechwarrior." Desmond growled.
"It is...The ilKhan is dead." The Mechwarrior finally managed.
"How?" Desmond demanded.
"An aeropilot rammed their fighter into his vessel. Details are still coming in." The man seemed to be gathering himself finally.
"There is more?" Desmond felt the color draining from his face.
"It is unconfirmed still but there are reports that the Wolf Khan was saved by Phelan." The man was still obviously in shock.
"By the founder..." Desmond found himself needing to sit down.
There was only one thing that had kept today from being a complete disaster. No, one person and she was out on the training field being taught how to fight hand to hand.
No one would question him now for making Denise a bondsman in such an unusual fashion, at least as long as she kept proving herself. Not after today.
-----
===Chapter 15===
Desmond's office
Vipaava, Former Free Rasalhague Republic
1st November, 3050
Before Dawn
--------
Desmond's perspective
Mechwarrior Scott was back with more updates.
"It is confirmed Star Captain. The Wolves have made Phelan a Warrior. His Trial of Position is expected to be underway soon. Possibly even today. It has also been confirmed that all Bloodnamed Warriors are to gather for a vote to determine a new ilKhan." Mechwarrior Scott was more resolved today.
"Point Commander Sarah, you are next most senior. I dare not bring Denise with me so I entrust you with continuing her training. With so much of our senior leadership being tied up in transit times for a year with this matter the invasion will be stalled during this time. This is a prime opportunity for the Inner Sphere to launch counter attacks and deep raids." Desmond briefed.
"As you command Star Captain. I shall be vigilant while you are away." Sarah almost growled.
Sarah and Scot cleared Desmond's office and Denise entered.
"I must leave planet for an extended period. Point Commander Sarah shall be in charge of your training while I am away. I expect you to continue excelling but based off what I have witnessed I believe you will." Desmond locked eyes with Denise.
"I understand Bondmaster." Sarah had likely drilled the proper response into the young woman yesterday.
"Go. I know you prefer morning exercise and I see no reason to force you to change that just yet." Desmond waved his hand.
Clan Ghost Bear would have to be very careful in how they handled finding someone with a link to their founding Khan now.
-----
Chow hall
Local Evening
-----
Denise's perspective
She would likely have even more bruises and stiffness than she already had from yesterday.
"For only your second day of training with a Trueborn Elemental you are making remarkable progress." Sarah was trying to be re-assuring but somehow it seemed off.
Probably because of how handily she kept thrashing Denise in their sparring matches. The monster of a woman was fast for her size.
"Eventually I will get you to lose your footing." Denise was determined.
She knew in a real fight the odds would be so stacked against her that she'd likely never defeat Sarah or any other Trueborn Elemental no matter how hard she tried. But she also knew she could not stop now. She had to give it everything she had and then some.
"I must admit I had to do some research as to why you finally chose the path of the Warrior. In our society there is no disgrace in being a collaborator. Indeed in a very real sense one is expected to be a collaborator when one Clan takes another's holdings." Sarah probed.
"Well here among the barbarians it obviously has a different meaning. I just hope that at least me not staying with my parents has calmed things down." Denise answered as she finished her water.
"So far there have been no more attacks." Sarah was trying to be re-assuring again.
While Denise was certain the monster of a woman was sincere it still just felt out of place.
"Good." Denise sighed.
Because I could easily lose myself if I was not there to protect them after all this. Denise looked at the large woman across from her.
"I see something resembling doubt on your face." Sarah said.
"Sort of. I just worry that my parents are not safe without me there to protect them. But to protect them by your rules I must become a Warrior. I know there is no going back now and I must see this through now." Denise answered.
"Then there is something you need to realize. If you do succeed in becoming a Warrior all members of the Clan will in effect become your family. Now it is likely that since you are of this world we will keep you here as part of the garrison but you will be expected to protect more than your parents." Sarah countered.
"I know. If you do demand I leave this world I can pay that price now. Because it is the only chance I have at keeping my parents safe now." Denise looked Sarah in the eyes.
"It is an odd motivation but one that is clearly driving you. As such I can work with it. It is a shame in a way that you will most likely be placed as conventional infantry." Sarah seemed pleased.
"I do not know about that. I am feeling lucky. Plus I am young enough I am not done growing yet. So who knows. I might get enough size I can finally beat you in a few years." Denise boasted.
"I look forward to finding out." Sarah smiled.
Again Denise knew the large woman was being sincere but her monsterously large frame and the prior thrashing of today's training just made it seem out of place to Denise.
----
===Chapter 16===
Vipaava wilds
Vipaava, Former Free Rasalhague Republic
17th November, 3050
Local Morning
--------
Survival training was not considered a high priority when she was drafted. So when Sarah decided to drag her out into the wild lands, where it was winter no less, well she was going to enjoy a nice hot mug of cocoa when this was over and be extra motivated to find a way to beat the monster of a woman.
The snow wasn't too deep here though so it was not as bad as it could be. But that just meant this was the 'easy' portion.
Her objective during this phase of training was to make it to a set of coordinates. Her only tools was a survival knife, a compass, and a Bureau of Land Management map.
She used her hand to shield her eyes from the reflection of the sun off the snow. This could almost be pleasant if she had some skis and goggles.
It took her a few minutes of studying her surroundings and the map for her to figure out which way she needed to go.
If her map was accurate and the weather didn't screw her over she could be where she was supposed to within three days.
So she started marching.
It was when she was working up another hill to get another read on her surroundings that her stomach decided to alert her as to how hungry she was.
A promising looking small forest that promised small game, maybe some nuts and berries, came into view.
"Of course it takes me a direction I do not want to go." Denise muttered as she checked her compass.
Still with three days she would need to eat.
As she worked her way towards the small forest she got the feeling she was not alone.
She turned to see just in time a Vipaavan Bear.
One of the past, Dukes decided to import some Terran Large Game. This included various Bear species. As the various species interbred and adapted to the local conditions they had become quite distinct creatures.
They were also known to be quite territorial and unafraid of attacking humans.
Denise didn't even bother going for her knife as this specimen was quite large and would strike her down before she could even draw it.
But instead it stopped right in front of her and lowered it's face to where it was now looking her in the eyes.
She could feel the creature's warm breath as they stared at each other.
"Okay, I will not go in the forest." Denise somehow understood the creature was warning her.
As suddenly as it appeared the creature seemed to fade into the snow as it walked off.
She looked back at the forest. She hadn't seen it before but there was now a small column of smoke coming from somewhere in it.
Almost certainly a hunting cabin.
She was not surprised. After that Duke that brought the bears in the first place there was a strong culture of self reliant big game hunters that almost never came into the cities. They probably did not even know the planet had been conquered.
If she had gone into that forest, well she did not want to think about it too much as one of the rumors about these isolationists was that they were not particularly big on giving women a say in their lives and since all Denise had was a survival knife, well there is the old saying about bringing a knife to a gun fight.
True or not she knew there was too much risk for too little gain for her in that forest.
As she resumed her trek towards her destination she came across a stream not on her map with salmon in it.
She stripped off all she dared then waded in.
It took a few tries before she successfully caught one of the fish. Fortunately she knew from her prior training that Salmon was a fish you could eat raw. With the cold she would have more than enough for the rest of the day in terms of food.
Still just because it could be ate raw there was the matter of as well as she had done at keeping dry, especially as much of her clothing as possible, she would need a fire for that anyway and soon.
Denise dismissed the forest again knowing it was a good way for her to get into a bad situation that even as trained and formidable as she was that she might not be able to get back out of.
She pressed on and was rewarded with another small grove just before sundown. It was no where near big enough to hide a hunting cabin but there would still be enough deadfall and underbrush she would be able to get a decent fire out of it.
She had a small fire, just enough to dry her, her clothes, and warm the salmon to tolerable.
----
===Chapter 17===
Temporarily Point Commander Sarah's office
exVipaava Militia Base
Vipaava, Former Free Rasalhague Republic
22nd November, 3050
Local Morning
--------
Sarah's perspective
Sarah mulled Denise's story over in her mind.
She was not particularly spiritual or superstitious but this tale and what the founders of the Clan had experienced, it forced her to wonder if there was something supernatural to the Jorgenson line.
Even if it was a mere vision or delusion brought on by the cold it was not easy for her to dismiss.
It troubled her. There would be those that would declare that it was a clear sign that the young Bondsman was destined for greatness. But the reality of the situation was that she was a Freeborn. This alone meant her opportunities would be limited despite her lineage and the symbolism.
It all seemed a cruel, sick joke that fate was playing on them all.
----
===Chapter 18===
Vipaava Militia Training Grounds
exVipaava Militia Base
Vipaava, Former Free Rasalhague Republic
23rd November, 3050
Local Morning
--------
Denise didn't believe in the supernatural. There had to be another explanation for her encounter during her wilderness survival training.
So in her scant few moments of free time before she had to go out for her morning exercises she started digging through the old militia records.
A rumor that she had thought was the regulars pulling the leg of a draftee was that 3rd company had tamed and trained a bear to help carry the wounded and ammunition.
Turns out it was true.
"Guess it just proves that animals just have a natural sense for danger and who is a friend." Denise muttered to herself.
She shut down her computer and made her way out to the training field.
Still ever since her encounter she knew she should still be paying for her dietary habits and being out in that weather that long but she felt stronger and more driven.
Sarah was out on the field this morning.
Denise knew what this meant. More hand to hand training today.
She jogged over to the outdoor hand to hand ring.
The heavy gray clouds chose now to start letting loose a heavy down pour.
It did not take long before the ground became muddy and footing got tricky for it.
Somehow she managed to dodge Sarah's first blow and delivered a counter strike into Sarah's ribs.
But Sarah's back swing caught her on the right side of her jaw.
Denise staggered back and nearly lost her footing in the mud.
As Sarah advanced to take advantage but Denise dropped down to put as much as she could into a sweep.
Denise was as shocked as Sarah was when the large woman came off her feet.
As much as it was a muddy mess Denise knew that it was still an unlikely outcome.
Sarah grabbed Denise's top and brought her into a grapple.
The two began thrashing around in the mud trying to gain advantage.
Denise could not get free but she was able to manage to get Sarah under her once.
But that was all she managed before Sarah leveraged her strength and size advantages fully.
Denise got picked up and slammed down into the mud.
"Still counts." Denise gasped trying to recover her breath.
"What do you mean?" Sarah hesitated.
"I got you off your feet." Denise answered.
"You are still defeated." Sarah smirked.
"Showers?" Denise asked.
"After 2km run, some light weight reps, and then after you get some weapons practice.." Sarah smirked.
Denise grimaced as she knew she'd have a few bruises, possibly including her ribs, from this morning's sparring.
------
Temporarily Sarah's office
A few hours later
Sarah's perspective
Sarah looked over the training fields. The gun range was barely visible from this office but Denise was out there getting her weapon practice in.
She had to admit even if the rain had helped that Denise had swept her off her feet was an impressive feat. Then when she managed to get her on her back?
This was a clear indication that Denise's training was coming along well.
She turned back to her desk. Desmond and Torrin needed to be updated.
----
===Chapter 19===
Temporarily Point Commander Sarah's office
exVipaava Militia Base
Vipaava, Former Free Rasalhague Republic
24th November, 3050
Local Morning
--------
As Sarah had to deal with the less pleasant aspects of being in command of even a Solhama garrison unit she had to admit one other thing was beginning to trouble her.
Denise had been a Bondsman for some time now. Her training and acceptance of Clan ways were coming along well but that was also becoming a problem in it's own way.
Since Desmond did not take Denise with him she did not actually have the grounds to decide Denise's fate one way or the other and soon such a decision would have to be made.
Which made her question why Desmond had left her behind.
Still that he had trusted her with her training was an honor she could not deny.
Even though she was of the Kabrinsky bloodhouse and a Trueborn Solahma Elemental tasked with training a Freeborn Bondsman that the Freeborn Bondsman was of the Jorgenson Bloodhouse did offer a certain prestige even among the Crusaders.
Perhaps that was the key to this situation?
Desmond had left it to her after all.
She pulled up a Watch file she had been granted access to as temporary garrison commander.
Yes, this would do as a final test to see if Denise was truly ready to embrace the life of a Freeborn Warrior in Clan Ghost Bear and shed her Bondscords.
With the current Crusader leanings of Clan Ghost Bear, there would be little complaint if Denise was left here as part of a Freeborn Conventional Infantry Star also tasked with policing duties and the opportunity outlined in this Watch file would help ensure that would be Denise's fate.
The reminder of Denise's limited options just because she was a Freeborn even with her heritage did depress her a little.
"As soon as Denise is finished with her run I wish to see her." Sarah keyed her intercom.
----
About two hours later
"Bondsman. Today I shall give you a test that will determine if you be free of your Bondscords or if this has all been for naught. It is an unusual test and one that at the very least bends our traditions but one I think will be accepted by the Warriors of the Clan. With the information about the survivalists that we had failed to factor in correctly combined with what our Watch has uncovered in their investigations about the rabble that attacked you we have located the ring leader's whereabouts. First part of the test. You know our bidding practices. So tell me if you were a Warrior that wished to win what honor and glory this battle offers what would you bid?" Sarah stared at Denise.
"So the ringleader of the troublemakers is holed up with some of the survivalists and isolationists. A good place to hide. No indication of if they may have some of their followers in addition to this. Still the largest survivalist group I have ever heard of had no more than 20 people in their settlement. Most of those would be non-combatants. So one Battlearmored trooper should be quite sufficient in terms of combat power. The trick is I would need at least a full star to make sure no one got away." Denise indicated she knew her reasoning and observational skills were being tested as well.
"Very good. I have decided to go a bit further. Consider it both a reward and a test. I have bid you with the same containment force. You will not be getting Battlearmor but I have arranged for some gear above the standard of what garrison infantry is usually issued. Bring the ringleader in or if he parishes in battle and I shall cut those cords and proclaim you a Warrior of Clan Ghost Bear." Sarah smiled.
"How will I know them?" Denise asked.
"Something tells me your instincts will guide you quite effectively in that matter." Sarah waved Denise out of her office.
------
Nothern Vipaava wild lands
Three hours later
------
Denise's perspective
The VTOL had set them down far enough away that they would not be easily detected. With the growing darkness they should have little trouble getting into position.
At least it was not winter in this part of the wild lands. Still the small forest that was preferred by the isolationists to build their cabins in betrayed their presence with a column of smoke from a fire.
The march would be long and silent as everyone already knew their role in the plan.
Denise gripped the Mauser laser rifle she had been given. It was bigger and heavier than the autorifles she had been training with but being a laser rifle she actually felt more comfortable with it.
After what seemed like an eternity they finally got to the forest and the cabin. Denise found a good hiding spot where she could see the front door.
<<"Arbiter to Cub. Thermals indicate no one has left the cabin and we are in position.">> A gruff male voice came over Denise's radio.
"Understood, Arbiter. I am making my approach now." Denise answered.
Denise got up from her hiding spot and walked toward the front door in the open.
(("Attention all occupants of the cabin. I know you are harboring a resistance cell. I have been authorized to overlook this if you all surrender peacefully.")) Denise keyed her loudspeaker.
The report of a rifle and a bullet several meters to her left was her answer.
She wasn't sure if they were just warning her off or did not have proper night vision gear.
Either way it would be a long 200 meters or so to the door, in the dark, in an unfamiliar forest.
Denise knew she didn't have much choice so she started running.
As she closed the distance the reports of rifles came every few seconds with most missing. Once grazed off her right shoulder. The Clan Infantry Armor kit had done it's job though and a quick brush with her left hand confirmed that there was barely even a scratch there.
She was glad that it pretty well confirmed they did not have proper night vision gear though.
Hurdling a large root then a quick sprint got her to the front door without further hits from their hunting rifles.
The resistance fighters had pulled back from the windows already.
Denise readied a stun grenade and tossed it in the second story window above and to her left.
She was halfway up the wall before it went off and she burst through the window.
A form, looked to be a teenage boy, was on the floor covering his ears cursing rather loudly with his rifle scattered nearby.
Denise rolled him on his stomach and used some zipties to secure him.
The large heavy logs that were used in a primitive construction style meant she only had one way to exit the room now.
"Great." Denise muttered as she knew she was about to have to take the first big risk of this operation.
She couldn't carry enough stun grenades to properly subdue the entire cabin.
She opened the door and a burst from an autorifle dug into the heavy logs that made up the cabin.
Denise stuck as little as she could out into the hallway to fire her Mauser blindly.
It seemed to be enough as she heard her foe step back.
She came out and waited.
A man in a worn militia uniform with an autorifel came into view at the far end of the hallway but Denise was ready and put a pulse of laser energy into him before he could get a proper aim.
The door to the room across the hall opened up and another man in rough hand sewn clothes with a knife in his other hand was starting to thrust the blade at her but Denise countered with the but of her Mauser then brought it around again squarely in the jaw of her new assailant.
She quickly took the knife from him and put his face in the floor. He was sufficiently stunned that a few zip ties had him secured in short order.
The other two rooms upstairs were empty as Denise checked them.
The former militiaman was groaning on the stairs as she eventually approached him. She grabbed him and hauled him into one of the empty rooms.
She treated his wounds then secured the man.
Back at the stairs she readied another stun grenade and tossed it down ahead of her.
Another two men exclaimed with the sudden flash of sound and light.
Denise hurried down the stairs as it was clear at least some of these people were former militia and they'd be better able to overcome the effects of a stun grenade.
As she feared one of the two men was already bringing their rifle back up before she fully got down the stairs. Fortunately the burst went into the stairs in front of her feet as she let loose another pulse of laser from her Mauser into the man.
The other was a little slower as Denise was on him and again used the but of her rifle to smash into the faceplate of the helmet the other man wore.
Denise leveled her rifle at the form as it fell to the floor and the helmet came off.
"Oliver?" Denise instantly recognized the malformed face of the man she had bullied then saved.
"Figures it would be you you collaborationist whore." Oliver spat.
"I always did figure you were lying to me last time we met." Denise sighed.
"Of course I did! I was in that position because of you but I was at your mercy. Not a terrible trick you had your mother pull denouncing you as a traitor. Cost me some of my less committed men." Oliver wiped some blood from his chin.
"Arbiter, cub. Resistance leader apprehended. Requesting assistance to secure the rest of the structure and alert medical that there are wounded." Denise fought down her anger as she keyed her radio.
"Heh. Yeah you got me and that probably does mean after tonight we're done but how' are your parents?" Oliver had a wicked look on his face.
"Savashri." Denise used the new curse she had learned.
"You really didn't think we didn't know you were coming and knew we were done except for one last bit of revenge. I suspect that by now the deed is done and my men that did it have been rounded up by what was left in the capital but it was worth it." Oliver boasted.
"You better be bluffing, Oliver. If you are not I am going to teach you a valuable lesson about how these people view prisoner's rights." Denise growled.
Fortunately for her before she lost any more self control her backup arrived.
----
Denise stood outside the cabin while the occupants were gathered up. Part of her burned to find out the truth behind Oliver's statement.
But a reminder that she could not go to them even now walked up to her.
Sarah approached.
"You have done well. In accordance with our traditions you have proven your capability as a warrior." Sarah said evenly.
"I just need to know one thing. Was Oliver lying when he said he sent people to attack my parents while I was here?" Denise held her anger in check.
"I will make the answer to that your last test. As much as we understand the bonds of family we Warriors of Clan Ghost Bear also know when they can become an anchor holding us back. So what shall it be for you?" Sarah answered in the cool pre-dawn morning.
Denise paused for a moment as her rational mind warred with her emotions.
Then she realized something.
The only way Oliver could have known to arrange that bit of revenge was if they told him I was coming.
"I understand. They will always be a part of me and who I am. That is a fact of Freeborn life. Now though the entire Clan is my family and I must act for them now." Denise answered.
"Then you are ready to take your place amongst us. Present your bondscords." Sarah nodded as she produced a knife and cut the cords.
Denise stared blankly at her wrist. Somehow it felt lighter as the cords fell to the ground.
"You are now a Warrior of Clan Ghost Bear with all the rights and obligations that represents. I believe you have achieved sufficient credit to bypass a normal Trial of Position. You shall join the 3rd Provincial Garrison Star as a Point member. Your orders are to keep up with your training, go out on patrol both civil and military, and enforce Clan Law." Sarah smiled.
"Thank you. Permission to return to base, shower, hit the rack?" Denise felt herself straighten up a little.
"Granted." Sarah nodded.
Denise knew they were still showing a great deal of consideration by allowing her to stay here as part of the garrison, but that was fine with her. After this day she doubted there would be any more resistance and if there was it would be small and disorganized like this had been and little trouble to deal with.
As such she expected her life would be little more than a foot note in Clan Ghost Bear's history with how far from any active front Vipaava was and short of some great disaster she would never be transferred to a front line unit.
------
Unforeseen Consequences
Unforeseen Consequences