Reality Of Perfection
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The world was a perfect place. The people were beautiful, the food tasted great and everyone had enough to eat without having to work for it or kill anyone else in order to get more than their fair share of resources. It wasn’t as if there weren’t any problems on Earth anymore; no one could have that kind of perfection.
But they’d been solved long ago by an organization called “the Council”. They made sure everything ran smoothly so that all humans would be happy with life. In fact, most people didn’t even know what the word ‘war’ meant because humanity hadn’t fought another species since its inception over two hundred years earlier.
There were still some pockets of resistance left around the globe but those groups only existed due to human ignorance about how things really worked out here in space. No matter where you went on Earth, someone from the Council was always nearby making sure nothing bad happened to anyone.
But then something changed…something terrible! A group of renegade scientists decided that mankind needed to experience pain and suffering again just as it did before the Council came along. These evil men planned to use genetic engineering techniques developed during World War II (which had never actually taken place) against other intelligent races throughout the galaxy.
Their goal? To destroy every race except humankind itself – at least until these same geniuses could figure out a way to make themselves immortal too. This plan required them to create new kinds of weapons that could not only harm others but also take control of their minds using technology far beyond anything known today. And this is exactly why the Council stepped in.
They knew that if they allowed such atrocities to occur, humanity’s very existence might be threatened once again. So they sent a team of highly trained operatives into deep space to stop the madmen who wanted to bring back war and genocide to our planet. That was when the first wave of combat robots began appearing throughout the solar system.
These machines were designed to look identical to the ones used in WWII and are referred to as “Mechs” by the military. The term Mech comes from the Japanese word for machine gun: mecha. Each unit has three main functions:
1.) To protect the troops inside them while under fire.
2.) To attack targets outside the mech.
3.) To defend against enemy attacks directed toward the mech itself.
Today, we call these units BattleMechs after the famous fictional robot featured in the popular science fiction series Babylon 5. However, many people refer to them simply as ‘mechs’. Most of the time, the name doesn’t matter much anyway since the public knows little about the true nature of these deadly killing machines. What does matter though is that the Council created each of these robotic soldiers specifically to fight off enemies of man and keep us safe from harm?
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BattleMechs
There are four basic types of BattleMechs currently deployed across the Solar System. All of them can be operated either manually or automatically depending upon whether the operator wants to engage in direct combat or remain safely behind cover.
Type I: The ‘Mech is the smallest type of battle-ready robot. Its size makes it ideal for urban fighting situations where speed and maneuverability are critical factors. Type 1 ‘Mechs weigh between 50 tons and 100 tons and usually carry two large laser cannons mounted on top of their heads.
Although they’re fast, agile, and powerful, the small size of these robots limits the amount of ammunition carried onboard. As a result, they don’t last very long unless reinforced with extra armor plating and additional weaponry.
Type II: The next step up from the smaller Type I ‘Mechs are the larger and heavier Type 2 models. These robots typically weigh anywhere between 150 tons and 200 tons and come equipped with two medium lasers and two heavy pulse rifles. Like the smaller versions, these machines have limited ammo capacity and aren’t able to move quickly through tight spaces. However, they do possess greater endurance and firepower than the smaller bots.
Type III: At 300 tons and above, the largest BattleMechs are the heaviest and slowest of the bunch. They tend to be best suited for planetary assaults and other open terrain operations. These massive machines normally carry six medium lasers and ten heavy pulse rifles. Unfortunately, the sheer weight of these huge robots severely restricts their ability to operate effectively within urban environments.
Type IV: Finally, there are the super-heavyweight ‘Mechs weighing well over 500 tons. These giant robots are the biggest and strongest of all and require the most crew members to operate properly. Many of these monsters feature multiple energy shields, particle projection systems, and even missile launchers. Some of these ‘Mechs may also be armed with railguns capable of firing high-velocity rounds at speeds approaching Mach 10.
Of course, none of these features will help much if the pilot isn’t skilled enough to handle his or her machine. Fortunately, most pilots train extensively for months prior to being assigned to a particular unit.
The following table lists the various ‘Mechs presently employed by the United Nations Space Command (UNSC). It should be noted that some of these machines are still undergoing testing and/or upgrades. Also, the names given here are those commonly used by UNSC personnel. In reality, however, the actual designations are classified as Top Secret.
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‘Mech Model Weight Class Armament Power Source Cost Notes
Type I 50–100 tons Medium Laser Two Large Lasers One Small Pulse Rifle Three Heavy Pulses
(Optional)
Two LRM Launchers Five SRMs Four SRM Launches Six LRMs
Type II 150–200 tons Medium Laser Two Large Lasers One Small Pulse Rifle Three Heavy Pulses
Four SRMs Eight SRMs Twelve LRMs
Type III 300+ tons Medium Laser Two Large Lasers One Small Pulse Rifle Three Heavy Pulses
Six SRMs Ten SRMs Twenty-four LRMs
Type IV 500+ tons Medium Laser Two Large Lasers One Small Pulse Rifle Three Heavy Pulses
Eight SRMs Thirty-six SRMs Forty-eight LRMs
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A BattleMech’s primary weapon system consists of its head-mounted weapons. This includes everything from large lasers to heavy pulse rifles. When operating in an urban environment, it’s often necessary to use both hands to control the ‘Mech so that the pilot can aim and shoot accurately.
Therefore, most ‘Mechs come equipped with a pair of shoulder-mounted laser cannons known as ‘pistols.’ While not nearly as powerful as the main guns, these secondary weapons provide excellent close-range support during street battles.
In addition to the standard armaments listed below, certain ‘Mechs are also outfitted with special equipment such as missiles, autocannons, and anti-missile defense devices. These enhancements increase the overall cost of production but allow the ‘Mechs to perform better against enemy forces.
For example, a single missile launcher increases the total number of projectiles fired per minute while adding more protection for the ‘Mech itself. Likewise, a defensive shield protects the ‘Mech from incoming fire and reduces damage caused by explosions.
As you might expect, the price tag attached to each ‘Mech varies considerably based on its size, power source, and other unique characteristics. A typical model costs approximately $1 million. However, many units are purchased directly from the manufacturer for far less money.
Most mercenary companies purchase several ‘Mechs before deploying into hostile territory. That way, they’ll always have one available when needed.
BattleMechs are constructed using advanced technology developed by the UEG. Their construction process involves assembling thousands of individual components which are then combined together inside a sealed chamber filled with liquid metal.
Once this procedure has been completed, the entire structure is placed onto an assembly line where it undergoes rigorous tests designed to ensure maximum reliability under extreme conditions. As a result, most ‘Mechs remain operational after sustaining serious damage. Even though repairs take time, they’re usually done on the battlefield rather than back at base camp.
Of course, no matter how tough your ‘Mech appears, it won’t last forever. Eventually, every machine must be replaced. And since the average life span of a BattleMech is about five years, most units keep three or four spare ‘Mechs aboard their DropShips just in case something goes wrong.
It’s important to note that the information provided here only applies to standard Mechs currently used by the UNSC. The same basic principles apply to any type of military vehicle including tanks, APCs, and hovercraft. But the specifics vary depending upon the specific model.
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s move on to the next chapter where we’ll discuss what happens once you get behind the controls of your very own BattleMech!
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Pilot Training
There’s nothing quite like the feeling of sitting inside a cockpit surrounded by thick armor plating and watching your feet dangling outside the footwells. You feel completely safe because there’s nowhere for anyone else to attack. Yet, even though you may look invincible, you’re actually vulnerable if someone manages to sneak up from behind.
This is why all MechWarriors wear protective suits whenever possible. They make sure that no one can surprise them from behind. Of course, wearing a suit isn’t enough to protect you from enemy fire. If you don’t know how to handle a BattleMech properly, you could end up dead long before you realize it.
Fortunately, training programs exist to help new pilots learn the ropes quickly. In fact, some people say that learning to operate a BattleMech is easier than driving a car. After all, cars aren’t armed with deadly energy beams capable of melting through steel walls.
The first step toward becoming a Mech Warrior is attending a school located near your home world. There, students receive intensive instruction in the art of controlling BattleMechs. During the initial phase of training, instructors teach students the fundamentals of combat. Then, they begin teaching specialized maneuvers such as jumping, climbing, and landing. Finally, they introduce the student to the various types of weaponry found on a BattleMech.
After completing the curriculum, graduates become eligible to join a unit. At this point, they’re assigned to a local company and given a chance to prove themselves. Some individuals rise above the rest and earn the right to serve as officers. Others simply do well enough to stay in the field until retirement age. Either way, they continue to hone their skills throughout the remainder of their career.
Once you’ve graduated from pilot training, you’ll need to find yourself a place to live. It doesn’t really matter whether you choose to rent or buy; either option will work fine. Just remember that living expenses tend to be high in cities like New Avalon, so you should try to avoid moving there unless you plan on staying for good.
If you decide to go ahead and sign a lease agreement, make sure you read the contract carefully. Many landlords require tenants to pay extra fees in order to cover utilities, property taxes, and insurance. These charges often amount to hundreds of dollars per month.
So, if you want to save money, consider signing a short-term rental instead. This way, you won’t be stuck paying exorbitant rates over the long haul.
You also need to think about transportation. Unless you already have a personal transport vehicle, you’ll probably need to purchase a bike or motorcycle. Since these vehicles are relatively cheap, you shouldn’t have much trouble finding something suitable within your budget range.
Finally, you’ll need to start thinking about food. Most planets offer plenty of options when it comes to dining out. However, many restaurants charge outrageous prices for meals. To cut costs, you might want to cook your own meals at home. That said, eating out occasionally can provide a nice break from the monotony of everyday life. Plus, it gives you a chance to socialize with other members of your community.
As you can see, there’s a lot more involved in being a MechWarrior than just fighting battles. Now that you understand the responsibilities associated with the job, you’ll be better prepared to navigate the complex world of BattleTech.
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Getting Started
In the days of old, warriors were born into noble families who passed down their knowledge and experience to their children. As a result, each generation was taught how to fight effectively against enemies both foreign and domestic. Unfortunately, times have changed dramatically in recent decades.
Today, most young people grow up without ever having seen a battle firsthand. Instead, they spend their entire lives studying books and memorizing facts.
Fortunately, things are beginning to change. More and more schools now include hands-on training sessions designed to give students an idea of what it’s like to face off against real opponents. The goal here is simple: to prepare youngsters for a future filled with danger and uncertainty.
For example, imagine walking onto a battlefield and seeing dozens of enemy troops rushing toward you. What would you do? Would you run away screaming in fear or stand firm and defend your comrades? How confident are you that you’d survive the encounter?
If you answered “no” to any of those questions, then you need to enroll in a proper military academy immediately. Otherwise, you risk falling victim to the same fate as countless others who failed to heed the call of duty.
Of course, not everyone has access to a decent school. For instance, you may reside on a remote planet where few facilities exist. Or perhaps you hail from a poor family whose finances prevent you from traveling far distances. In cases like these, you’ll need to take matters into your own hands.
Luckily, modern technology makes it easy to study martial arts online. You just need to select a reputable website and follow its instructions closely. Once you complete the program, you’ll be ready to enter the arena.
At this point, you’re probably wondering why I’m telling you all of this. Well, the truth is that learning how to fight isn’t nearly as important as knowing when to use violence. After all, some situations demand swift action while others require patience and restraint. And even though we live in dangerous times, it’s still possible to achieve peace through diplomacy rather than war.
So, before you rush headlong into a conflict, ask yourself one question: Is my opponent truly worth killing? Only after answering affirmatively should you proceed with caution. Remember, every warrior must learn to walk a thin line between victory and defeat. Failure to do so could lead to disaster.
The End