How I, Darrin Call, Came to be a Gatekeeper

Today we examine a story overheard in the 'mechbay near Vientiane.  The speaker on record is Darrin Call, a MechWarrior who joined the Gatekeepers just prior to the 2nd St. Ives Offensive.  These are his words.

I didn't think you could feel the cold in the cockpit, but this rock was nothing but Arctic ice and snow.  I have even taken to firing my mediums into the hillside partly to get a heat warning and partly out of boredom.  "See the 'verse," they said.  "Make money," they said.  "Have great adventures," they said.  So I joined.

When they said they were "a small, mercenary outfit," they weren't kidding.  Now here I am, alone,
standing guard for some corp that owes us money!

The proximity alarms sounds with two, no four mechs heading my way.  Switching to battle mode, I bring everything online and realize I am going to die on this ice cube and not even get paid.

A cheery voice rings out over my speakers.  "This is Janus Orworth.  Hail from the Gatekeepers!"  I was expecting more of a "Prepare to die" speech.

"Stay in your place and state your intentions!" I bark, hoping to sound intimidating as I bring my targeting reticule onto the Jager standing 1000 meters away.

"This can end two ways," the cheery voice continued.  "We can stand here and pummel you to death or you can stand aside.  The choice is yours."

"I'm being paid to guard this place, so I will fulfill my contract," I reply.  (I'm not always that bright, but I try to be honorable. )

"I can respect that.  Too bad," said the voice, not quite as cheery.  I steel myself for what is to come.

Another voice cuts in, "Can we buy out your contract?"  That was unexpected.

"What are you proposing?" I reply.

"Clearly you are in need of a hot meal, better pay, and a decent mech.  Swear allegiance to the Capellan Confederation, fly the Liao flag and join us.  Help us capture this platform and you will get a proper Capellan 'mech."

"How do I know you won't kill me?" I ask.

"How do we know you won't try to kill us?" the cheery voice calls back.  Good point, I think.

"You seem to be a person of honor, so  believe me when I say, I Anik,on my honor, will give you this Catapult C-1 if you find your way to help us take this platform without bloodshed."

Now I proudly fly the Liao banner, and you can see my Catapult by my name.

Best. Deal. Ever.