0 comments/ 25479 views/ 0 favorites Robotech: Sweet Vengeance Ch. 1 By: PrincessKoriandr Story One of my Robotech Series! First up: Max Sterling and Miriya Parino's Story Written by Kenya—Quadrono Leader * * * * * * * * * * Thank You and Dedications * * * * * * * * * * I'd like to dedicate this story to That Evil Bastard (Padraic), who listened to my constant ramblings on the subject even when I was sure he wanted me to shut up! And Jericho Fan (Rachel Ehrlich.) who located the last two books I needed! Without them, I'd never been able to complete my collection of Robotech Novels and finish this or future stories. I'd also like to dedicate this story to all those Robotech/Macross Fan Fiction Writersthat get little or no praise for their hard work at Fanfiction.Net. Stay encouraged, keep writing, and never think for one second that no one reads your work, even if most can't be bothered to "Review." Thanks 10 Million guys!!! * * * * * * * * * * For those without a clue… * * * * * * * * * * Maximillian A. Sterlingis the Robotech Defense Force ace pilot. Slight, blue-haired and bespectacled, Max was over-looked and dismissed as a threat from the very beginning. But after his first battle with the Zentraedi forces and a fistfight in the White Dragon, had everyone reevaluating his or her opinion of the handsome Veritech pilot. Lightening fast reflexes, superb hand-eye coordination coupled with a natural talent that bordered on miraculous made Max the undisputed master of the sky. Even having less then perfect vision, (Max wore blue tinted aviator glasses with corrective lenses.) wasn't enough to detract from his abilities. There was simply no one better, not even the honored Roy Fokker or Rick Hunter, when it came to flying the Veritech's. Max's relaxed, unassuming, and humble; almost Zen like manner was as much a façade, as it was a part of his natural personality. Max's quite grace hid a more dangerous man, a man that was closer to Max's true personality then the persona he allowed others around him to see. But despite it all, Max met his match in the beautiful Zentraedi Ace Pilot, Quadrono Leader Miriya Parino. She saw him for the man he was and embraced him; he found the one person he couldn't live without, his soulmate and wingmate. His love eternal. Miriya Parino-Sterling is the beautiful green eyed, green haired Battle Queen of the Zentraedi Forces and Commander of the elite Female Quadrono's Battalion. Miriya is a prideful, driven woman who constantly strives for self-perfection, to rank number one in the game of war. Created in a Protoculture chamber, Miriya was one of the millions of breed for war Zentraedi warrior clones for whom emotions, love, sex, happiness and music was alien, and the segregation of the sexes was strictly enforced. Miriya's dedication to the Zentraedi Imperative, along with her curious nature was well suited to the extraordinary level of her talents, a trait that sets her apart from other pilots and lead to her becoming one of the greatest warriors of her race. Miriya was known to push herself to the absolute limit. She demanded as much from those under her command, as she does from herself, and that is why only Miriya can judge Miriya Miriya is an excellent Commander and has earned her own battle cruiser command a dozen times over, but rejected each one. She felt that promotion would have placed her too far from flying, and flying was what she did best. Loyal to a fault, Miriya has never failed to carry out her orders to the fullest and commands total loyalty to those under her command because of this. Always on the lookout for new challenges, she almost bit off more then she could chew when she met the Micronian pilot, Max Sterling. Taunted by Khyron, the Backstabber, of one Micronian pilot she could not beat, Miriya leads a squad of Quadrono's into battle to search out, and destroy him, but it is Miriya that is defeated in the dogfight that insured. Vowing vengeance, Miriya leaves the SDF-1 only to return as a Micronized Zentraedi warrior to search for the pilot that defeated her and destroy him as a way to end her humiliation. Instead, she found more humiliation as he defeated her, not once, but twice more. The first defeat came in a Video arcade where Max defeated Miriya at her own game, so to speak, and then bragged about how easy it was. Humiliated once again, Miriya got up from the game to leave, but before she could, Max grabbed her hand and asked for a date. She agreed and Max let her go, never suspecting that Miriya intended that their first date would be the last. This leads to her final defeat. Max arrived at the rendezvous spot on time, but Miriya was early, hiding in the park with her knife ready, intent on killing the pilot that was responsible for her shame. The fight that followed was intense, brief, and ended with the knife in Max's hand, pointed at Miriya's throat. Max Sterling was the victor once again. Shamed and defeated, Miriya pleaded for Max to end her life. He couldn't do it. Instead of killing her, he ended up falling in love and marrying her. Miriya learned a new lesion; that there is honor in defeat when a worthy and honorable opponent beats you. That was the beginning of a legacy that was felt throughout history and beyond. * * * * * * * * * * The myths of selfless humility and humble allegiance to ideals aside, there is no warrior culture, not that of the Japanese samurai, medieval knight, or any other, that does not, upon close scrutiny, have a ruthless, entirely practical side to it. Also universal are egotism and a hypocritical willingness to dispense with all the high-flown language and poetic vows when the grim business of life and death is at hand. How much more so, then, among the cloned, breed for battle Zentraedi? In the case of Miriya Parino, female warlord of the Quadrono's and arguably the greatest fighter of her race, the matter is certain: Her soaring pride and utter self-confidence had been her hallmark until she was bested in both the air and on the ground by Max Sterling. Her emotional ferment was such that the law of her kind, the vendetta, was the only road open to her— Sweet Vengeance, by any means possible. Is it any wonder, then, that what happened next has provided fuel for songs, arguments, dissertations, and grand opera for generations since? Altaira Heimel, Butterflies in Winter: Human Relations and the Robotech War * * * * * * * * * * Chapter One — First Impressions * * * * * * * * * * Aboard a Queadol-Magdomilla Battlecruiser—Command Ship of the Seventh Mechanized Division of the Botoru Battalion "How dare you question my leadership abilities?" The man sitting in the commanders chair was practically vibrating with rage, incensed that here was yet another questioning him…challenging him…doubting him and his ability to command his fleet and control his men. Him! It just wasn't to be born. He had been leading men into battle after glorious battle for countless thousands of years, accumulating numerous victories for the Robotech Masters and insuring the Zentraedi's place in the history of the universe as warriors and still, there are those that doubted. And why? Because he believed in doing thing his own way, in his own time? Or was he under constant scrutiny because he refused to bow to Breetai and Azonia's twisted logic? As long as he was loyal to his Imperative, then what did it matter how it was carried out. He was never one for following orders, as his long past will proclaim. He will continue to do what he deemed necessary and to Hell with Dolza, Breetai, Azonia, Exedore and anyone else that has a problem with the way he commands his ship and men. Especially her. Silently, he leaned back in his chair, fingers steepled, contemplating. Lately, he's been faced with more then his usual share of insubordination and stubbornness. Not surprising, considering his forces have been constantly out maneuvered and humiliated by the inhabitants of Zor's battlefortress…these Micronians…have had the advantage in every situation. That could not continue. His men needed a clear victory over the Micronians or he must prepare to deal ruthlessly with his men in order to keep control. Regardless of the cost, his will must never be questioned. And normally, it would not. His men and those of other fleets, thought more then twice before confronting him or questioning him—on anything. His quick trigger temper and superb physical conditioning made the other Zentraedi wary of testing him—in any way. Standing well over 55 feet tall and weighing in at a little over 20,000 lbs, he was a blue eyed, blue hair demigod of war, the ultimate warrior. But despite his reputation, that still did not stop some people from treading where others dared not. Most, but not all. Zentraedi like her. Miriya Parino—the green eyed, green haired leader of the female Quadrono's—pride of the Zentraedi air forces and a long time antagonist of his. He wasn't back aboard his battlecruiser 10 minutes before his project-beam screen blinked to life and she started taunting him with his recent defeat at the Micronians hands. As if his defeat wasn't chastisement enough without this Zentraedi woman taunting him with it. He wished she'd go and leave him in peace, but he knew such fanciful wishes were just that…wishes. Miriya only did what Miriya wanted to. In that, they were much alike. Right now what Miriya wanted to do was revel in his humiliation. So be it. He had a trick or two in store for the arrogant female. Commander Khyron Kravshera, better known as Khyron The Backstabber among the Zentraedi fleet, spoke through clenched teeth as he addressed the image on his projecbeam screen. "Just who do you think you are?" he asked her, scornfully. Unaware of Khyron's plotting, Miriya smirked at him through the projecbeam screen and informed him of exactly who she was. "Who am I?" she questioned, spine straight and head held high with her trademark arrogance gleaming from her bright green eyes. "I am Miriya Parino, second in command under Azonia Lamiz! I am the female Warlord and Mistress of the elite Quadrono Battalion! And in case this also has slipped you memory Khyron, I am the finest mecha pilot of all the Zentraedi forces." All these things were true of course. Miriya was an excellent pilot; the best of the fleet and she knew it. Her self-confidence, along with her arrogance, was an unending trial to the Backstabber and the men of the Zentraedi forces. More often then not, it was the Quadrono's flying circles around the enemy, making it glaringly obvious where the real talent lay. Khyron snarled, "You are as prideful and egotistical a warrior as they come Quadrono Leader, but take care…one day your ego will cause your ultimate destruction Miriya." Not that this was a bad thought to the Backstabber…he couldn't wait to see her get her comeuppance and humbled before the male fleet and her beloved Quadrono's. Oh how he would dearly love to see her humbled. Bitch. Is that right Khyron? Miriya thought. Throwing back her head, causing the mane of green hair to fly, she pinned him with a smile from her full lips, a smile that has been known to fill the most hardened solider with unease. Khyron was no different. "Oh? Just as your ego caused you to be shot out the sky and downed in the Micronian Sea, making you the object of ridicule to all those you command, Backstabber?" Burning with the rage and embarrassment his failure brought about, he jumped out of his chair and raised his hand, pointed a finger at her and taunted, "Just because you have never faced a capable opponent, you believe you're something special, but take care little Miriya! There is one aboard the SDF-1 whom you cannot best!" There, Khyron thought with much satisfaction. Take the bait and perish. Miriya's interest peaked. "Are you telling me that there is a warrior…a superior pilot worthy of my regard aboard the SDF-1?" Crossing her arms across her chest, she regarded the commander of the Botoru Battalion with calm interest. "Interesting!' "I thought the idea would appeal to you." Inclining her head, Miriya smiled brightly, causing the dimples to appear at the sides of her sensual lips, giving her a beautifully hungry, dangerously feline look. Khyron instinctively stepped back from the monitor. Noticing the betraying movement, but choosing to ignore it, Miriya continued smiling. "I'd like to meet him." * * * * * At that very moment, Lieutenant Maximillian Sterling was wondering how much more they all could take. Something had to give and give soon. It's not like he's the only one with a screwed up love life! Max thought to himself as he walked through the sliding doors of the hospital and out onto the sidewalk parallel of Macross main thoroughfare. Some of us don't have one at all! Outside, the artificial sun of the EVE system was high in Macross, casting a cheerful brilliance to the ships inner surface, but Max was in no mood to enjoy it. He figured he was grouchy because he was hungry, but suspected his edginess had more to do with his commanding officer's continued stupidity and his own lukewarm love life, rather then the grumbling of his stomach. Looking about, Max realized that Roy Fokker and Ben Dixon was nowhere in sight. Not surprising, considering the way Rick had reacted to their visit, but he at least thought they would wait for him. Scanning the area around the hospital one last time, Max pushed his blue tinted aviator glasses higher on his nose and started walking toward the barracks, confident that the two pilots were nowhere around. He had duty in two hours, but wanted to check on Rick first. He sees now that he could have saved the trip. Had Max been a little less concerned for his friend, he would have hauled ass right along with Roy and Ben. Rick was in a vicious mood, literally snapping Ben's head off for his enthusiasm of a Minmei song playing on the radio. He had to admit that his blunder about what Rick needed hadn't helped his commanding officer's mood any. Instead of cutting his losses and leaving when the leaving was good, he chose to stay and got a dose of cold shoulder for his effort. Seeing that Rick didn't feel like talking, preferring to sulk instead, Max had bid him farewell and left him with his thoughts. Max figured Rick needed a solid slap in the face, or kick in the rear, and Lisa should be the one to deliver it. At this rate, it'll be years before he comes to his senses and that would be an injustice to both Lisa and Rick. It always amazed him how Rick could be so blind about Commander Hayes feelings for him. It was obvious to anyone with eyes that Lisa was in love with Rick. Well, to everyone but Rick that is. Instead of capitalizing on the chance to have a beautiful, loving, courageous woman love him, Rick naturally wants the selfish, flighty child that's sure to break his heart and leave him an emotional basket case. Sure, Minmei was beautiful, Max admitted to himself, but she was a beautiful child. And what about himself? Max Sterling, the Robotech Defense Force Ace pilot and wonder boy of the skies, undefeated and envied by all, a real trailblazer, Max thought sarcastically. He knew he was good, the best actually, but despite his talent and skill, he was still alone. Sure, there were women. After his first battle and the fast, highly publicized promotion to First Lieutenant, groupie types started poring out the woodworks, hoping to entangle what they thought was an innocent, gullible young man in their schemes. Much to those women disappointment, Max remained un-entangled. Never the playboy, Max spent a lot of his ducking those groupie types and shying away from all the extra attention. Most women made him uncomfortable, but they only wanted to be seen with Max Sterling, Ace pilot, not Max Sterling, the rather intense and introverted man he really was. No one was interested in really getting to know who Maximillian Sterling was, and so he stayed to himself. But it was a lonely existence. Max couldn't remember the last time he had a date. Where would he find the time? Seemed like all his free time lately was spent inside the cockpit of his Veritech, risking his life in order to defend the SDF-1 and Earth from would be invaders. In-between, he slept and ate. Not the most exciting lifestyle for a young hotshot. But that didn't mean he was totally without experience. Before joining the RDF, Max was in a couple serious relationships, but unfortunately neither survived his desire to join the military. It was just as well; Max thought as he entered the confines of the Prometheus upper hanger deck and started in the direction of the Men's locker rooms to change. Being a Fighter Pilot would make any relationship difficult to maintain, if not killing it altogether. The fear, the uncertainty, the knowledge that the one you love may not come back to you, was something Max wouldn't wish on anyone who loved him. The strain would be unbearable. As he walked, people waved and greeted him, but Max half-heartedly waved back, his thoughts of happily ever after depressing him. He was so deep in his thoughts that he didn't hear the heavy footsteps heading his way, nor did he hear them when they came to an abrupt stop nearby. He concentration was broken when he felt a hand touch his shoulder. "Deep thoughts Buddy?" Turning around, Max was startled to see Ben Dixon standing behind him, already in his white, with yellow and blue trim flight suit, holding his matching helmet "Think Cap" under his right arm. Max had to look up to fully see the Lieutenant. Standing at 6'6, Max's modest 6'1 was totally dwarfed Ben's height, not to mention his size, the brown haired, browned eyed fighter jock was easily 250 pounds of solid muscle. It always amazed Rick and Max that Ben was able to fit inside the Veritech without getting stuck. Crossing his arms, Max gave Ben a slight smile. "You could say that. I've been doing nothing but thinking ever since I left Rick's room." Ben grimaced. "Yeah, he wasn't in the best of moods." Max snorted. "That's the understatement of the year. The man was as touchy as a teased rattlesnake. If I'd had any kind of sense, I would have been right behind you and the Commander." Ben looked uncomfortable for a brief second, and then said sheepishly. "Yeah, well, Commander Fokker was dragging me out the room. Which was probably a good thing, seeing as how Rick threatened me with a knuckle sandwich." Ben paused, then queried, "I wonder what's his problem." Max turned and looked at Ben in amazement. "What's his problem? What problem? The man has two beautiful women running after him. All he has to do is choose one or the other. We should all have such problems." "Sounds simple." Max started walking toward the Men's changing area. Ben followed. "Of course it's simple. If it wasn't, then it wouldn't be a Rick Hunter problem." Nothing else was said until both men entered the changing area. Max walked to his locker and pulled out one of the many white with blue on light blue trimmed flight suits and threw it across an empty bench, then reached up to retrieve his "Think Cap" helmet and a pair of gloves to go along with the outfit. Max then turned to Ben. "I'm just gonna go change real quick. Want to go get something quick to eat?" he asked, looking down at the watch on his arm. "We got about 45 minutes before we have to report for duty." Robotech: Sweet Vengeance Ch. 1 Ben was leaning against one of the lockers, his arms and legs crossed in front of him. "Sure, we can go to the Officers Mess and grab a—" The thought went unfinished as battle klaxons blared loudly throughout Macross alerting everyone aboard to what was about to happen. Not again, Max barely had time to think before the PA came alive and Lisa Hayes started giving orders. All personnel report to battle stations immediately, Red alert, this is not a drill, repeat, red alert, all Veritech fighter groups to launching platforms. Skull squad up first, followed by blue, green and brown. Repeat: this is not a drill. Lieutenants Sterling and Dixon are to report to Skull Squadron for immediate deployment. Repeat, Lieutenants Sterling and Dixon are to report to Skull Squadron for deployment. "Looks like it's lockjaw time," Ben said, on his way for the door. "You get suited up and I'll alert the squadron leader and engineers to be expecting you." Max then waved him off. "Thanks. I'm right behind you." Then ran for one of the unoccupied dressing room. God…let this be the last battle. Let us all come home safely, Max prayed feverishly as he rushed to get dressed. It was a simple, but heartfelt prayer, one he said every time he went into battle, hoping against hope, that today would make a difference, no matter how small, and that he, and everyone locked in this bitter, relentless struggle, live long enough to see the War come to a swift, peaceful end. But as with all the battles before, God was quiet. Suited up, Max was ready for battle once again. Grabbing his helmet, Max ran to the hanger where his Veritech was waiting, fueled up and waiting to go. "She's ready to go, sir. Good hunting." Engineer Benson said, dropping the stepladder when he saw Max approach. "Thanks Chief," Max patted him on his back and hopped into the cockpit of the blue trimmed VT. Max acknowledged the rest of the maintenance crew by giving them a "thumbs up" before putting on his "Thinking Cap" and closing the open canopy. Max did a quick, systematic check of his online systems before contacting the Bridge. "Bridge, this is Lieutenant Max Sterling on Prometheus deck. Requesting launch perpetrations and directives. Lisa Hayes face appeared on the center tec net. "Lieutenant Sterling, you are cleared for launch on Prometheus deck 4C." Max set the VT in motion. "Roger. Vermillion 2 approaching Prometheus deck, block 4C, awaiting further orders." "You are to join the Skulls and engage the enemy at Delta 4585, Lieutenant." "Have the Skull's engaged?" "Negative. ETA is 20 minutes till contact. If you blast you're afterburners, you may be able to beat your commanding officer to the point of contact." Max grinned. "Yes ma'am. Vermillion 2 is in place." "Vermillion 2 you are go, repeat: you are go. Good hunting Lieutenant." "Roger Bridge. Lift off positive." Max plied the Hotas stick, but what's more, he imaged a perfect take off through the "Think Cap" helmet and was off to take up the mantle of war once again. * * * * * Khyron's words propelled her into swift action. In fact, two hours had barely passed before her attack cruiser entered Earths atmosphere and a squad of Queadlunn-Rau mecha pierced the sky as one after another stepped from the drop bays, their backpack thrusters blaring and hunting on their minds. Once everyone was airborne, she gave her instructions over the tec net. "I am looking for one particular enemy fighter," she informed the massed assault mecha behind her. "He will show himself by superior performance. When he has been identified, you will maintain distance and leave his execution to me. Am I understood?" "It is understood and shall be as you wish, Kamma Miriya" her second in command, Seloy Deparra, spoke for the contingent of Quadrono's. Satisfied that her orders would be followed to the letter, Miriya allowed herself a brief moment to contemplate her kill. There were many things, countless things that made this blatant disregard of orders so appealing. The chance to humiliate that fool Khyron—a definite plus at any opportunity, a way to defy Azonia. Miriya was tired of her carelessness toward Quadrono lives—hers in particular—and her self promoting ways, the chance to have the Robotech Masters sing the name of Miriya, the chance of ending the war once and for all, for her own personal glory, and of course, that ultimate thrill—flirting with complete disaster. But as grand as all those things sound, the one thing that really drove her was the chance to meet a worthy opponent. Khyron had the right of it. Throughout her long military career, she has never met anyone that could provide a challenge. That alone made it worth the risk. Because if she failed—and Miriya never had—all would probably be taken from her, her life included. Miriya didn't intend to fail. But what was any of it for, if not for the risking? She lived for combat and victory, she thrilled and delighted in it. It was far easier to keep bleeding prey from the jaws of a lioness, then it was to avoid Miriya's wrath. * * * * * "Nice of you to join us Lieutenant." Ben joked. Max had just joined with the Skull contingent, plus another flight of VTs off Prometheus, a little late, but game. In command was Roy Fokker, but he hadn't arrived there yet. "Hey, better late then never," he quipped. "Where is—" Max never got to finish, because his tec net suddenly came alive and Roy Fokker's face appeared. "If the two of you are finish, can we get back to the business at hand?" Ben couldn't resist. "Well, as I live and breath. Our fearless leader has arrived." Max looked down at his tec net and saw Roy grin. "Stow the jokes hotshot. We're about to have our hands full in three minutes. Are you ready to get the job done?" "Yes sir!" Ben confirmed eagerly. Ready? Max thought. Who was every ready to kill and be killed? But he was committed and now was not the time for doubt. "Affirmative sir." "Then lets do the damn thing!" Roy took them up into a ballistic climb, guiding the squadron directly at the enemy. All of them were eager for the dogfight that had been forced upon them, but that eagerness suddenly waned with the newest update. "Bogies at 11'o'clock. Looks like its gonna be a real bitch this rip men. That's a squadron of Quadrono's up ahead," Roy said, a bit dismayed. He remembered the souped-up Zentraedi mecha better than anyone, and if the SDF-1 was facing a division of them, that was all she wrote. Endgame. Roy wasn't the only one worried. Max wasn't too thrilled either. To date, none of the VTs had much success in fighting the Quadroons, except for Rick, and he hadn't come out of it so well. Now's not the time Sterling, he reminded himself. Remember: nothing extraneous in mind or body, or you may end up dead before the first shot is fired. Just keep your mind on your job and maybe you'll live to see tomorrow. His resolve strengthened, Max waited for orders. "All right men…Attack!" Roy screamed, then let loose a barrage of missiles into the Quadrono's midst. Orders received, Max plied the Hotas once again and dove into the battle, passing judgment on those in his path. * * * * * Now…Where is this great enemy ace that Khyron fears so? Miriya thought as she watched the enemy's crafts come toward her. Which one is he? Signaling to her squad, Miriya and the first few of her armored Quadrono deployed under power to engage a slightly lesser number of enemy aircraft. "Kah yar," she yelled in Zentraedi, commencing them to attack. Immediately the Quadrono's dove into the frenzy, engaging an enemy they considered beneath them. The dying started immediately. Quadrono battle suits begin pouring forth cascades of fire; Veritechs dove up into it eagerly, dodging and jamming missiles, gambling their reflexes against the enemy's until one by one, they fell. Quadrono Power Suits and VT's blazed a burning trail, before exploding into a million fragments across Earth's clear blue skies before falling into the sea. * * * * * As usual, Max Sterling was on top of his game. Missiles fired from the Quadrono's battle armor moved faster than the eye could follow, detectable only by their plasmatic wakes and corkscrewing trails of smoke, but somehow, they managed to miss Max Sterling. The Missiles never got close. He twisted and rolled his VT through seemingly impossible maneuvers, jamming some of the missiles' guidance systems, getting others to take out each other, all while skirting a hair's breadth around them. It was a close dance. One bad move and he could be paying for it with his life. ""Max, two o'clock!" Ben warned, his sensors locating one of the power suits hiding in a dense formation of clouds, trying to get the jump on Max with a surprise attack. The warning was unnecessary though. Max had seen it. Imaging his VT over to Battloid mode, Max then lifted his autocannon and fired, spraying the Quadrono with bullets and blowing it to twisted shrapnel. He turned just in time to catch another Quadrono trying to sneak up on him. Again, his chain-gun made quick work of the mecha, as it too became a distant memory. Max watched disinterestedly as the disabled mecha spiraled into the ocean. Again he prayed for a peaceful end. All the killing was starting to leave a bad taste in his mouth. * * * * * Miriya had been watching interestedly, though not participating in the fighting directly. She merely observed the battle as it was waged; delighting in the cold, efficient way the Quadrono's dispatched the Micronians and sent those unfortunate soldiers to a fiery demise. For the sisters caught unaware by the Micronians, their lives ended by missiles or the short controlled burst from a VT's chaingun, Miriya silently acknowledged and renewed her sworn oath: Vengeance—for herself, and her sisters. Miriya continued her vigilance. At long last, Miriya spotted him. Of all the VT's engaged in combat, only the blue-trimmed mecha was unmatched. No Zentraedi had been able to stand against it, so who else could it be but Khyron's vaunted Micronian champion? Leaving her position of relative safety, Miriya dived at him like a rocket-powered hawk, anticipating the battle to come. "Now you die!" Miriya's first volley of missiles were launched, and Max dodged them and managed to get a few rounds into her armor as she passed. Miriya loosed another flight of missiles and he dodged those too, and still he came, charging straight at her and firing the entire time. An unbelievable piece of flying, but Miriya wasn't so easily impressed. "You devil!" Miriya hissed softly, almost fondly, knowing now what a pleasure it was going to be when she killed him. The powered armor and the Battloid whirled and pounced, the upper hand changing sides a dozen times in a few seconds. Miriya was astounded. Could this Micronian have artificially enhanced reflexes and telepathic powers? she thought, while she dodged his chaingun rounds. That was certainly the way he flew his aircraft. Miriya went into a ballistic climb in order to gain a little breathing space, and Max got a sustained burst into her backpack thrusters power unit. Miriya's mecha trailed sparks and flame as it fell through the air, only to suddenly straightened out again. Playing hurt was the oldest trick in the book and Max fell for it. Once again, Miriya had the advantage and she didn't hesitate to use it. Particle cannon charged, Miriya wasted little time pounding away at the off guard Battloid, knocking it back as several rounds hit home. Whoa! This fella's not playing; Max thought as he hit his boosters, trying to regained some stability. Max switched to Veritech mode and took evasive action in order to get a little elbowroom before going at it again. Miriya laughed like some wild huntress and pursued him down through the clouds, crying, "You can't dodge me forever!" * * * * * "That's very odd," Lisa Hayes murmured. "Those alien mecha aren't attacking us. In fact, they seem to be holding off, covering the one that engaged Max Sterling." Claudia Grant, the stately dark-skinned fiancée of Roy Fokker, was standing near Lisa's station, watching the intricate series of bleeps and bright dots on the tec screen. Claudia nodded. "It seems like the leader, or whoever it is, has a personal vendetta against Max Sterling." "Who can understand the mind of a combat pilot?" Captain Gloval shrugged. "Especially an alien one?" Lisa turned to face Captain Gloval. "That's true sir, but there must be some reason Lieutenant Sterling has been singled out." Gloval crossed his legs and leaned back in his seat. The ever-present cigar perched between the fingers of his right hand, unlit. "Not really surprising Lisa. Sterling is the best pilot in the fleet, if not the world. It makes strategic sense that the enemy would try and take him out as a way of weakening our defenses. Or there could be something more sinister at work." "Your orders sir?" "Order Lieutenant Sterling to retreat. If they continue to pursue him, it will mean that the target isn't SDF-1." * * * * * Max was staring at the tec with total bewilderment. "Retreat? Wa—waitaminute, I don't get it! What's the big idea, huh?" Hey would be lying if he said he was having a good time, but he was doing what he did best—what he did better then anyone alive—and they wanted him to turn tail and run? What the hell was going on? "The bandit on your tail is trying too hard," Roy explained. "So?" "So, the bridge wants to find out what his game is." "You got it," Max said reluctantly. He thought there was something different about this mecha jock. Whoever this alien was, he was one hell of a hot pilot. Max shoved his stick into the corner for a pushover and dove for the surface of the ocean. The Quadrono powered armor streaked after him. * * * * * Of the seven people watching instruments on the dimensional fortress's bridge, three exchanged knowing glances. Gloval stood to his feet. "So, now we know." * * * * * Max and Miriya still fought their incredible duel across the sky. Max had changed into Battloid mode, and the two circled each other with extreme caution. Max released another flight of missiles that she avoided, then nearly clipped her with his Gatling rounds. But she evaded him again. It was the most difficult, dangerous, exhilarating contest of wills and skills Max had ever been in. His sense of time had completely slipped away, and he didn't think of victory so much as excelling, of outperforming his foe. For Miriya it was far more different. Not only had she not destroyed the Micronian, she'd come very close to being killed herself. But Miriya was undaunted. He was as good as Khyron had said and better, but that was no deterrent. Miriya was certain she could defeat him, thought she was beginning to see that it wasn't going to be as easy as she once assumed. For the first time in her long life, Miriya was beginning to know what her own opponents, her long list of kills, had felt. Perhaps, as the ancient wisdom goes, there is always someone better than oneself. The thought filled her with an angry dread. She tore through a small white puff of cloud to see that the SDF-1 was close by and suddenly had a brilliant idea. "His ship!" She made straight for it at maximum speed. "Lets see how well you perform with all those unprotected Micronians around." As plans go, it was extraordinary. Perhaps in such tight quarters with his own people around, he would know a hesitation to shoot, would lose concentration, and then she would have him. His life would be hers. It was a deliciously audacious, risky plan; she adored it. "I won't be able to catch him in time!" Max hollered over the command net, seeing what this brilliant, devious enemy had in mind. Desperate to stop the mecha from even reaching the SDF-1, Max hit his afterburners and streaked after it. * * * * * "Oh God…" Claudia murmured. "They're heading this way Captain—heading straight for us!" Lisa reported. "Tell the AA batteries not to fire Claudia," Gloval barked. "Sterling is too close to the enemy! Lisa, make sure all hatches are sealed and double-check and make sure that all civilians are in shelters!" "Right away Sir." "Yes Sir." Lisa responded. * * * * * Most of the exterior hatches on the SDF-1 were already sealed because of the ship being at general quarters, but one wasn't: the one through which the air-sea rescue Helo had just left to make the pickup of wounded and dead. The enormous hatch couldn't be closed quickly, but it was already more than half closed. It was more then enough. Miriya saw it and made a beeline for it, diving through it and into the dimensional fortress. Damn, he's already in, Max thought, hot on its tail and blasting his afterburners in the hope of catching him before he actually go in, but the alien mecha had the advantage. Max noticed that the hatch was quickly closing and shouted, "This is it!" Then configured his VT into fighter mode and slipped through the rapidly closing hatch. Max rear stabilizers barely cleared the descending upper half of the hatch; but he was in. He chased the giant powered armor suit through a long curve of enormous passageway usually used to shuttle large machinery, components, and vehicles inside the ship. Max refused to fire on the enemy here because of the potential damage that could be caused to the ship, and indirectly to the people of Macross. If the corridor was caved in or destroyed, then it would take precious time, time Max was beginning to suspect the SDF-1 didn't have, to re-supply the ship through the overhead hatches. That wasn't acceptable, especially when every second counts, so Max held his fire and chased the retreating Quadrono through the corridor, praying that when they hit the inner section, the section where Macross City was housed, that everyone was safely inside the underground shelters. He had a feeling that some property damage is unavoidable. Miriya was curious as to why the Micronian devil held his fire, but she was perfectly willing to wait until they were someplace that allowed more room. She was pleased to see that he followed her still. Such a determined spirit. Indeed, a worthy opponent at last. Miriya smiled behind her green tinted face shield. Soon she'll be able to avenge herself. This Micronian's time was ending. "Run, little man, run," Miriya beckoned, watching him approaching in her rearview screen while simultaneously flying at hair-raising speed through the relatively tight passageway. "And when you catch me, you die." There was no subtle, controlled entrance into Macross. Miriya hit the open settlement with total disregard, crashing through walls and tearing out overhead signs and fixtures. None of it mattered to her since it didn't affect her mecha. She was determined to find the perfect battleground for this, her greatest victory. About 500 feet ahead, Miriya came about, her foot stabilizers blazing blue as she turned and set down on the mecha's mechanical legs, waiting. She didn't have long to wait. Thirty seconds later Max shot out of the corridor and reconfigured into Battloid mode, looking around for his antagonist, then winched when he saw the damage to the inside of the ship. "Oh God…I hope no one was in any of those buildings." Then there was no more time for idle thoughts, because Max's onboard sensors had caught Miriya with her back turned, literally. Raising the Veritech's long, cigar-shaped chaingun, Max opened up in a massive hail of bullets. Though several blocks separated them, it had no affect on his aim. Max had managed to spray the Quadrono where the armor was thinnest, driving it backwards and knocking it off balance, then watched as it fell over. Robotech: Sweet Vengeance Ch. 1 Miriya was taken totally off-guard. Try as she might, Miriya couldn't prevent her mecha from being knocked over backward. When she managed to bring the mecha back to a standing position, Miriya was enraged. "You think to do combat with me?" she screamed, though he couldn't hear her. "You impudent fool!" Max was silently watching, waiting with gun in hand to see what the alien mecha would do. He didn't bother with the radio; Max's Battloid's hand on the trigger was all the communication Max felt he needed. The Battloid said it all as it stood waiting, poised, with autocannon ready, allowing her the option. The clearest challenge imaginable. "Well friend, what next?" Max asked, eager to see what the next phase in this challenging encounter would be. Miriya was starting to view the Micronian in a different light. Khyron was right! This Micronian is a demon of war! * * * * * "Open the overhead hatch nearest them!" Gloval snapped. "We have to force the alien out of the ship!" * * * * * The Quadrono's exterior pickups caught the sound of grinding brute servomotors, and Miriya detected the opening of the hatch above her as she shouldered aside a building, crumbling it to pieces like a plaster model, to get some fighting room. Miriya came to a sudden decision right then. It's not good enough simply to die killing him! Miriya's mind reasoned. He must die knowing that I live! Before she could reconsider, Miriya's thrusters blazed, and the powered armor began to lift, rocketing up through the open hatch. Oh no you don't, Max thought as he mechamorphosed into fighter mode, and rushed after her, avoiding the flock of sizzling missiles she fired to help aid in her escape. Miriya fired the energy weapons built into its giant hands of her mecha—particle beams and annihilation discs, as she exited the hatch that open above her, in the hopes of scoring a quick kill. Max dodged them, and then imaged the VT into a ballistic climb, following still, but the Quadrono had gained a slight advantage, placing distance between itself, Max, and the SDF-1. "Lost your taste for combat my friend?" Max knew this round was over, but he had a feeling he'd see this particular Zentraedi again. Then Lisa face popped on the VT's tec net. "Return to base, Vermilion Two. You've beaten him." "Not decisively," Max said, watching the Quadrono became a small green dot on the horizon before doing a vertical boost for the atmosphere. Turning for home, Max there was no clear-cut victory. Who knew how it would have turned out if the alien had stayed? He knew realized that it could have easily gone either way, and the Zentraedi pilot knew it too. * * * * * Seething, Miriya guided her Quadrono back into the stratosphere. "Miriya will not forget this day, Micronian—and you will pay for it. So I vow!"