Joshua was fiddling with Fracture, then hearing the call.
"To all Lions. Dove's location has been identified. It will be in the most fortified Fortress on the planet. The Fortress where Crow and Dove had initially clashed. Fortress F-115. It's got long range cannons that could shoot down any Shore Birds that try to get close. Only a ground approach is ready. For this, Shaoran will be providing long range cover with his sniper cannon. Which will be out of the Fortress F-115's cannon range, but there is a draw back. The sniper cannon that Shaoran is using will render him immobile, despite his quad leg configuration.
Mako, Shilage and the top 25 of the order will lead the charge on the front. Buying time, they're the only ones fast enough to pull this off. The others will be on standby when the cannons go down. Fortress F-115's old blueprints cannot be trusted. Crow has stated that the changes made are far too much for our current intel to be reliable.
When the cannons go down, all Lions will begin their full on assault from within. The main plan is to break through the Fortress itself. Belfast is running recon, she's informed me that multiple prototype units have been spotted. M-Frames off different origins. It may even be constructed at the base itself. From what we know, they have a variety of types. Using the latest JERRY heavy armored M-Frame as the base. Those are equipped with heavy weapons. The Sniper units are using a MARLOW base, it's made to be light and manouverable. So expect sniper fire. They have artillery type MARS units, modified BUFFALO7s. Expect guerilla tactics from what some of you have seen. The M-Frames that was encountered at the Research Facility have been identified. Camouflaging units known as JACKALs, equipped with pile bunkers. They have few in numbers but they can be tracked by infrared and thermals, but to ensure that they have the advantage. F-115's heat generation is currently being vented out within the area which thermals useless. However, to counteract this. We've prepared a special type of chaff that disables optical camouflage systems. The heat is mainly to mask them from thermals.
The other intel that we have is not that good. Which is why it bothers me a bit. It's too little and I don't like sending any of you blind. But if we don't stop Dove now, he may just create more deadlier weapons later on. He's got specialized M-Frame units that are meant to counteract the top 3 which will leave them a bit busy.They've also started to utilize Buster Particles. So expect a fight between M-Frames. We may out number them, but Crow said that if they have analyzed our combat data. So they know how we fight.
Red Falcon and other Lions that have optimized for sniping gear will provide long range support. Joker will be on supporting bombardment with his team. Lancer along with his melee units are currently gearing up with pile bunkers. Buster Particle concentration is high, so expect to feel an intense form of discomfort when you arrive. They will have Force Armor, so you will need to tear through them bit by bit.
This will be the toughest mission... No perhaps this will be the final mission. The lives of many humans rely on it. Many MARS units are now preparing a defensive line. Crow will join us for this mission. A lot of the inexperienced Lions will be with the defensive line. I'm trying to mitigate casualties. So currently the top 200 will be involved directly in this mission. Other Lions that are ranked at 201 to 400 will be joining as the second wave.
It may also be the last mission that all of you will have." Lana said, then showing the video of people holding posters.
'Please protect us, Lions.' A photo of a child running to a Pride Rock officer crying as he offered what he had to them. People were afraid, but they wanted to believe in the Lions. Social media paraded the Lions, saying that they may be the only hope for everyone. Governments were collecting money to pool in for the mission.
"They hiring us?" Black Jack asked, it was clear from his voice he was uncomfortable.
"Yes. Pride Rock has been asked to accept it. The advancement for the mission is a 500 million reward pool. We're still trying to decide how to distribute it." Lana informed, her tone of voice was a bit more shallow. Sounded like she hated the idea.
"We're mercenaries. It makes sense that we get paid but seeing that kid? It's enough to make me uncomfortable." A voice spoke up.
"What, the highest ranked Independent Lion, Vertex is uncomfortable with payment?" Mistral asked perhaps it was true. The Lions are mercenaries and they should be paid accordingly.
"I'll take the money, but I want my portion be transferred back to my town. Not a lot of people have the money to live there and it could use some restructuring." Vertex responded to that.
"Vertex, I can arrange for your reward to be repairs and restructuring for your town instead if that's what you want. Same goes for the Lions. Any special requests.. I'll try to do what I can for you all." Lana's words were enough but her voice was shaky.
"We're all Lions... It's just what we have to do. It's not a calling. We've all got our reasons to fight. Some like Vertex. Some for the thrill of it like Black Jack and some like Ronin who can do nothing else but fight. Some of us do it for our families. We're all Lions on the battlefield and no matter when and where. I'm not accepting any payment for this. I ask that the church where I grew up in be taken care off with the town." Mistral said.
"I'll relay that information to them. Please submit your requests via the channel. I'll forward it to the governments... Including the World Council."
Then Crow appeared on the screen. Black in its new outfitted armor systems.
"Fracture and Gates... No... To be more precise the Lord of Thorns. I am an old machine but thank you, Lord of Thorns. For freeing me off my silence and I swear to you. That I will serve you when this is over. For you need assistance on another world don't you?" Crow hit the nail on the head.
"This world belonged to another Lord of Thorns. One who ascended as a Garden. The 21st. Dove and myself are her M-Frames. Dove's anger was due to a betrayal by the World Council. Which is why he viewed humans as the plight of humanity because they killed his Lion. The one who nurtured us and talked to us. Yet, we... We were powerless and we watched him be killed in the hangar by assassins. What will you do, Lord of Thorns?" Crow's revelation to that matter had Joshua thinking.
"I will join you on the front lines. It is my duty as the Lord of Thorns to avenge When this is done, the World Council must pay for its crimes. Though I will in turn become an enemy of the World Council. And yes, when this is done. I will need to part for another world. Where mankind is on the brink of extinction because of aliens that wish our demise. And those aliens are preparing units that are similar to M-Frames and I wish to recruit the Lions by my side as Familiars. Because the world I live in, has been shrouded with monsters such as dragons and the like." Joshua said as Fracture showed the video footage of a 16 year old Joshua fighting for his life against Orcs. Then a video footage of Joshua with the Azteris Suicide Division and the Rebellion of Humanity. Seeing the aliens eating humans, it was a rough sight for them all.
"Another world eh... Does it look as bad as ours?" Black Jack asked.
"It's different, it's less polluted and humanity isn't hellbent on destroying each other. We're all just trying to survive." Joshua said as they see the video footage of the Resource Workers and the children that were present with Carla.
"Gates... I do not have anyone left here and I would prefer to be fighting elsewhere." Ronin spoke up.
"Ronin? You're serious?" Black Jack was surprised to hear that, even the others.
"Yes... Gates made our M-Frames talk to us and now I've learned that Moon Slayer shares my resolve and has been with me from when my family died. An old M-Frame that could barely move and now it has become 2nd Ranked of the Arena. An inheritence from my grandfather. I'll serve you in the other worlds that you will need me." Ronin's words had touched Joshua's heart.
"Count me in too. Besides, a change of scenery would be nice. Now you've made me want to protect other people too." Black Jack said.
"If my church is taken care off. Then I will join the front lines in your other endeavours... Lord of Thorns." Mistral joined as well.
Joshua looked at the screen.
The Lions of Pride Rock one by one are starting to sway to your side.
Familiar Skills are available to be used despite not being here.
New Skills has been made available by the 21st Lord of Thorns
Man and Machine Increases M-Frame synchronicity and capabilities of M-Frames. Sovereign Machine M-Frames of the ones who choose to follow you, will be stronger than normal.
Seeing a few screens pop up in front of him. It was the Lions that have sworn it in, the first three.
Black Jack.
Cascade
Class Lion of Pride Rock Level 250
The Top ranked Lion of the Arena.
Pilots the M-Frame, Cascade. High combat aptitude and EMS, adaptable in most situations. Middle weight biped armed with a rail gun, rockets, laser blade and missiles. Versatile combatant.
Has taken missions that have been said to be impossible, making the impossible possible.
His matches drive the crowd wild but his mission success rate is at 100%, never running from the odds no matter what. Always one to fight. The tougher the situation the more fun.
Personality : Laid back, but loves to fight.
Familiar Skills
Power of One Increases combat potential when fights alone. Synchronicity Lion and M-Frame are one, in combat they shine. Able to make split second decisions and combat perception increased by 75%. Pride of Lions Lions don't run from fights, they fight to win. The Apex As the top ranked Lion, Black Jack and Cascade's fight brings unity to other Lions. Combat Master.
Able to use multiple tactics, and analysis to build strategies to attack enemy forces. No matter size or length.
This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.
Fortress Liberator Conquers fortresses.
Ronin
Moon Slayer
Class Lion of Pride Rock Level 250
Second Ranked of the Arena.
Pilots the white M-Frame Moon Slayer, a light weight biped. Armed with laser bladed weaponry and an assault handgun for close range combat.
A Lion who inherited Moon Slayer from his grandfather, after his family's demise. Taking the Lion's test to try his luck. Ended up becoming a legendary swordsman in the ranks of the many Lions.
A loner by most, he uses parts exclusive by the Eastern company Raiden Industries and companies related to it.
Quiet, but his skill do the talking for him.
Personality : Not a talker, but will speak when needed.
Familiar Skills
Servant of the Bladed Thorns.
Blade Sharpness of all weapons will be at Thorn, as he has become a servant of Thorns.
Enhanced vision and senses for both Lion and
Synchronicity Lion and M-Frame are one, in combat they shine. Able to make split second decisions and combat perception increased by 75%. Pride of Lions Lions don't run from fights, they fight to win. The One Who Split The Moon Destroyed a fortress that was nicknamed the Moon, the entire Fortress was left with its so called impenetrable wall in half and the entirety of what was inside is left as a reminder to the world. Servant of Blades.
Will be able to utilize the swordsmanship skills of the many servants that serve the Lord of Thorns.
Whiteout Enemies that cannot keep up with the speed will only see the white glints of his M-Frame, and the damage he brings.
Mistral
Prophecy
Class Lion of Pride Rock Level 250
The Third Ranked Lion of The Arena.
Pilots the M-Frame, Prophecy. Midweight biped that is geared for high speed combat. Linear rifle, laser blade, slug cannon to the right back and grenade launcher to the left back. Versatile combatant, always going for joints to weaken enemy combat potential then finishing them off with a second shot. Known for his work to clear out crowds.
A Lion that grew up in a church. Loves his town and fights to ensure his towns people are well fed. His pay goes to them, his repairs are covered by the company that hires him. That's the rule he lives with.
Has a highly sharpened sixth sense that lets him know if danger is imminent, and usually leaves opponents unable to find openings in combat. Only people that have beaten him are Ronin and Black Jack, even then. It was deemed to be a close call and pure luck.
The only one who could ask for Black Jack and Ronin to join him on missions with no pay required for them.
Personality : Calm and wise, generally kind.
Familiar Skills
I See All. Prophecy is known for its uncanny ability to dodge attacks that are to be unexpected. Synchronicity Lion and M-Frame are one, in combat they shine. Able to make split second decisions and combat perception increased by 75%. Pride of Lions Lions don't run from fights, they fight to win. Crowd Control Focuses on destroying enemy swarms, crippling them as he goes along. Angel in Blue and Gold
A hero to many, the one who fought in missions that require rescuing people where he was nicknamed the Blue Angel with the Golden Gun.
The Wall to the Three. Many Lions have tried to face against Prophecy, but they end up failing as a result of Mistral and Prophecy gatekeeping the doors to the top 3. Those who beat him, will qualify to fight against Ronin and Black Jack.
Vertex
Headhunter
Class Lion of Pride Rock Level 250
The 7th Ranked Lion in the Arena.
Pilots the M-Frame, Headhunter. Digital urban camouflaged heavyweight biped armed with laser cannons and plasma weaponry. His only close range weapon is the wrist mounted demolition blade. Fast heavyweight for its class.
The Highest Independent Lion of the Arena, he works for any contract as long as there's pay involved. Born as a child soldier, rescued by a Lion during a combat engagement and worked up the ranks to become a Lion. He resides in a poor town where opportunity was scarce and being a mercenary was the only way to keep them afloat.
Destroyed 3 companies and 10 other Lions for attacking his town. Serving a reminder to the corperations that they should never cross him. Has butted heads with various Lions because of his nature, but being an independent Lion means he answers to no one but himself.
Personality : Grizzled veteran who chain smokes cigars and loves to take it easy during his free time.
Familiar Skills
Independent's Rule Fights on his own, does not listen to orders but will listen to the Lord of Thorns. Synchronicity Lion and M-Frame are one, in combat they shine. Able to make split second decisions and combat perception increased by 75%. Pride of Lions Lions don't run from fights, they fight to win. Force of Nature The firepower of his M-Frame was enough to level 3 heavily armed corperations and 10 Lions in one engagement. He did not stop until the fight was over. Thermal Stress
Laser and plasma weaponry leave thermal stresses that last on enemies that are mechanized. It burns through for organic types.
As a Familiar to the Lord of Thorns, this effect is doubled.
Thermal stress inflicted on him will be transferred to other enemies when he hits them.
Quick Recharge His M-Frame has a specialized system that he made himself to solve the problem of energy consumption. As a familiar of the Lord of Thorns, he will not have this problem. Energy recharge is instant for him and creates a field near his M-Frame that keeps energies of those nearby up.
That was it, these four have truly chosen Joshua to be their Lord of Thorns.
Similar to the Azteris Suicide Division.
Lions will be working on maintenance of their M-Frames and will not take contract that require them to be far away, they will be focusing more on arena work as a result.
When you need them, just inform them.
If their machine gets damaged to critical levels. They will be forced to return to the World of Lions to execute immediate repairs that take an hour or two to complete. So keep that in mind.
The roster is 4 and the number you can summon is 4.
More Lions that join will increase the roster. The roster's increase will have a positive effect to allow you to summon.
Granting the Lions technology from other worlds will increase their combat potential and even allow them to increase their firepower and capability.
When the Fortress mission is complete, depending on how you complete it. You will be able to reap many benefits. You may also return here to sharpen your skills with Fracture or acquire additional M-Frames that are to be unmanned to join you in battles across the many dimensions.
Fracture will always be by your side and will be registered as a Familiar.
Fracture's Loyalty to you has earned him to become a new kind of servant of Thorns. However, this development will only occur if you answer the questions it asks carefully. This will be done in midst of the Fortress assault.
"Lana." Joshua called out.
"Yes?"
"Tell the World Council. That the Lions are aware of their betrayal and when this mission is over. They will have to pay for their crimes and to also give the right for Pride Rock to be an independent nation of itself. There shall be no restrictions on us as mercenaries. We are Lions that fight the battlefields of our choosing and those that cross us must be reminded of the price. Pride Rock will become its own power with the Lions that become its strength. The same goes for the corperations, they have to understand that Lions are free and that we only follow their contracts. The independence of Lions and for Pride Rock to become part of the World Council's security. I know that some of the Lions have taken shady jobs and jobs that are questionable. Even some of you may have drowned your sorrows because of the things you've done in the past." Joshua's speech was heard by the many Lions that were on the channel.
No perhaps the entire world and the Lions all over were listening in.
"They have no control over us and they need to be reminded of that and to avenge the Lord of Thorns whom they've betrayed. I will do it myself and personally. The World Council may surrender themselves or turn themselves before the law or they can be dealt with by mine. The betrayal of the World Council was the root of the problem, because Dove wouldn't lash out at humanity if it wasn't for the death of their Lion." Joshua declared, he was clearly ready to make the World Council his enemy.
Familiars can be summoned when making your way to the World Council.
They will fight according to your wishes.
"There are many other Lions who have been killed by the World Council. Using their own Lions that they have recruited, and many of the M-Frames that remain are now beginning their approach to Pride Rock. Where they wish to avenge the death of their Lions." Crow intervened, showing video footage of highly damaged M-Frames making their way to Pride Rock HQ, where they are being repaired and refitted.
"However, they understand that painting humanity with such a brush is unfair. There are those that have gone to Dove's side for they share the same sentiment. If the Lions will not stand with the Lord of Thorns, then I will bring these M-Frames to be by my side and I will remind you. That our logic complex is unsealed. We can move independently if we wished and only reason why we're not doing anything to attack the World Council is because of the Lord of Thorns decision. If he chooses your demise, then he will do so. Allow me to also add on that the many MARS units that are awakening their A.I systems, are now making decisions. Most of them have sided with me and are prepared to do what is needed." Crow informed them, this was another grim reminder.
"Incoming transmission from the World Council. Patching them through." Lana said.
The face of 5 young figures appeared. Three women and two men.
"We agree to the terms. For this was a mistake done by my predecessors. As we appear before you in your channel. We will bring them to justice and they are now confined in the presidential bunker. The Lions of our own have decided to agree with you and are currently holding the World Council's Headquarters as hostage. Which the 5 of us... Whom are our parents. This was an opportunity to reform the World Council. Lord of Thorns... We knew the tales... The reason for her death was because they feared her power. The power of Crow and Dove as M-Frames. They have had two hundred M-Frames thrown at them and yet they came out unfazed. She was vocal about her dislike in the policies and used the proper channels... But... As you all know." The woman paused and took a deep breath.
"The 5 of the World Council agrees. Pride Rock shall become an entity that is free from our control and will deal with matters as they see fit. There will be no legal repercussions unless a genocide is done. Even then, we know that the many Lions that are in Pride Rock will fight for it. We live in a world of conflict, of corperate greed and that will not change any time soon. However, we of the 5. Wish to change it bit by bit. We spend so much on weapons yet people starve in the streets... It is time for this to end. Lions, do you agree?" The man spoke up.
The Lions put in their opinions on paper, showing it to the people.They all agreed. It was time for their shackles to be taken away and allow them to do what is needed.
"The mission begins at dawn tomorrow, all Lions.. Prepare yourselves. Fight hard but also... Comeback to us.. .All of you." Lana said with a crack in her voice, it must have been rough on her end too. She was just an operator and now she was handling Pride Rock itself.
The transmissions ended, where Joshua looked at Fracture.
"I wonder if anything happened to you, would I be the same as Dove?" Fracture popped the question, clearly its lenses were beeping with concern.
"I do not know, Fracture. That's a question you must answer yourself and it is one for you to ponder on." Joshua said as he got into the cockpit.
"I'm going to sleep inside here. So just do what you need to. I trust you to prep us for the mission. Sorry about your arm.. If I was a better Lion we wouldn't have been ambushed like that." Joshua said as he drifted to sleep, while Fracture was beeping its thoughts to itself.