The Behemoth BHN-6H, often referred to as the "Stone Rhino" by those who witnessed its might, is a relic of ingenuity and brute force from the tumultuous days of the Third Succession War. Assigned to the legendary MechWarrior Gordon Zed of the Zalman Bloodname, this behemoth of war quickly earned a fearsome reputation on the battlefield, sowing terror and confusion among its enemies.
Origins and Modifications
Originally a state-of-the-art machine, the Behemoth BHN-6H underwent significant downgrades to adapt to the limitations imposed by the era's technology. Despite these changes, it remained a formidable presence. Zed's Behemoth was modified extensively to maximize its battlefield effectiveness. The large pulse lasers were replaced with PPCs, known for their devastating energy discharge and long-range capability. The small pulse laser was swapped for a standard model, ensuring reliability and ease of maintenance. Most notably, the twin Gauss rifles were replaced with Autocannon/10s, paired with four tons of reloads to sustain prolonged engagements.
These modifications came with a cost. To accommodate the additional weight and necessary heat sinks, the Behemoth was fitted with a 200-rated standard engine. This greatly reduced its ground speed but did little to diminish its role as a juggernaut, capable of enduring and delivering immense punishment.
Service with Wolf's Dragoons
Gordon Zed and his Behemoth were assigned to Wolf's Dragoons Alpha Regiment, where the Stone Rhino's appearance on the battlefield became synonymous with imminent destruction. The Behemoth's sheer firepower and resilient armor made it a cornerstone of the Dragoons' assault formations. Its presence alone could shift the morale of an entire battlefield, often causing enemy forces to break ranks and flee.
During the brutal Battle of Misery, Zed and his Behemoth played a pivotal role. The battle was fierce, and the Dragoons faced overwhelming odds. Despite their valiant efforts, Zed and his Behemoth were eventually overrun. Zed's fall marked the end of an era for the Behemoth, as the machine that had once been a symbol of unstoppable force was silenced.
Legacy and Salvage
After the Battle of Misery, the Draconis Combine managed to salvage the wreckage of the Behemoth. However, the damage was extensive, and the technological constraints of the era made it impossible to fully repair or reproduce the Behemoth BHN-6H. The Stone Rhino, with its unique modifications and legendary service record, became a symbol of both the glory and tragedy of the Succession Wars.
Today, the legacy of the Behemoth BHN-6H lives on in the stories told by those who witnessed its power firsthand. It stands as a testament to the ingenuity and determination of MechWarriors like Gordon Zed, who pushed the boundaries of what was possible in an era defined by conflict and technological regression. The Stone Rhino may no longer walk the battlefield, but its legend endures, inspiring new generations of warriors to strive for greatness.
