<div class="floatright">(http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y156/jillvader/mw-nmfkmpkarimonero_zps55a1bf27.jpg)</div>Just as the<em>Shadow Cat II</em>was lining up its next volley, it was unexpectedly pummeled by a burst of energy fire from its flank. PPC and laser weapons scored its hip, wounding the Clan ‘Mech, making it turn its attention from her, even momentarily. That was enough to give Kari a chance, letting lose another volley of laser fire that savaged the Falcon ‘Mech’s side, slicing through its already damaged armour. She could see one of the LRM launchers erupt, its systems devoured by the angry intensity of the lasers.<br/><br/>That seemed to be enough to discourage the Clan warrior for the moment, the<em>Shadow Cat II</em>firing its jump jets and boosting away, disappearing back into the trees.<em>Probably ran off to grab his mates,</em>Kari grimly assessed, sweating as she quickly glanced across displays.<em>Best to get while I have the chance</em>. She continued to backpedal, looking around to take in the situation as the hulking BattleMech pulled further back. It was only then that she noticed her savior, a camoflauged<em>Ghost</em>just across the clearing from her, looking about as battered as her own ‘Mech was.<br/><br/><em>Allia, recon commander,</em>she quickly told herself, identifying the machine.<em>Good to know there’s at least a few more of us out there</em>. Keeping her eyes open for the enemy, she opened a tight channel to the other ‘Mech. “This is Bravo lead to Charlie lead,” she began. “Pulling back to rendezvous point. I haven’t been able to reach Black Sun Actual or any other members of the unit so far. Requesting status updates, if possible.” A part of her wanted any news at all, no matter what, just to simply break the pall of uncertainly hanging over her. And another part just wanted to hear a friendly voice.<br/>