That's right folks, with GenCon right around the corner it's time for the Chatterweb's pre-game episode, and do we have a show for you!

That's right. When MrsArbiter isn't creating new colors, we'll talk about the new digital content for the BattleTech Mercenaries Kickstarter, and the new metal BattleTech miniatures from our good friends at Ironwind Metals. We also take a look at the latest MechWarrior 5: The Clans promotional material. If you haven't seen their Broadsword redesign, you're missing out. Honestly, this expansion of MechWarrior 5 has me excited for the Smoke Jaguars!

Then we have a very special sit down with long-time BattleTech author Craig Reed to talk about his latest novel: In the Shadow of the Dragon. Just released in time for GenCon, the novel tells the story of a Great House in flux.

Yori Kurita, the Dragon, Coordinator of the Draconis Combine, rules her nation with an even hand and is reveling in her victories over the hated Federated Suns. Though the Dragon’s troops occupy the Suns’ capital for the first time in history, her own reign rests on a shaky foundation. Due to her checkered ancestry, many detractors call her a puppet ruler, a pretender to House Kurita’s throne, and some will stop at nothing to end her rule and take back the Combine—including eliminating anyone who gets too close to the truth.

Russell Blaylock, a detective for the Civilian Guidance Corps, has seen plenty of murder cases throughout his distinguished career. When his investigation of a murder with ties to the Palace puts him in the crosshairs of the Internal Security Force and their shadowy war of brinksmanship with agents from the rival Order of the Five Pillars, he soon draws the attention of the Coordinator herself. In a quest for the truth, Yori reactivates a long-dormant bureau, the Office of Special Investigations, and tasks Blaylock and his team of investigators and security with solving this case before the conspirators’ deadly plans can be carried out.

But the Combine’s capital brims with visitors for the celebration of the Coordinator’s anniversary, Yori’s well-equipped, well-prepared enemies could be anyone, anywhere, and they could strike when least expected. Can Blaylock and his team hunt them down before they eliminate the Coordinator and bring the Combine to its knees?

We want to thank Craig Reed for coming onto the show, and be sure to check out our other stuff on TikTok, Twitter and YouTube.

Coming at you from the Chatterweb: The Last Word in BattleTech Talk!