Amongst the billowing clouds, our doom arrives; steeds of pure white with eyes of fire...
Leren Air Base, October 25, 1998.
Captain Niles Feisler watched his breath form small clouds as he exhaled. He made a note to tell his former squadmates from Altavaire Air Base, located farther inland in Verusea, that the late Fall on the southern coast was no better than it was in the country's northern half. Feisler gazed out across the vast expanse of ocean ahead of him. On the other side of the water was Sotoa, the sole reason he was now here. The small country had been alarming Verusea's security analysts as of late; the Sotoan military had begun stockpiling weapons and receiving vehicles and weapon systems from the dominant country on the continent: Yuktobania. Truth be told, however, the troubles of a country hundreds of miles away were second to Feisler. Right now he couldn't help but take in the beauty of the serene shoreline ahead.
With a thundering roar, a Verusean Navy F-14 finished its takeoff roll right behind Feisler as it banked and headed out to see. "So much for serenity," Feisler groaned, checking his watch. It was 0640; he'd need to be back in his squadron building in twenty minutes to see the new squadmates the base's command had thrown together. He'd prepared a "welcome to the squad" briefing, but he knew from experience that such things could either make or break a first impression. Feisler hopped onto his mountain bike and pedaled off towards the base gates. Time to meet the other new guys.
Captain Dark Hooves Yang is in the cockpit of his F-5 Tiger II doing the last of his pre-flight checks before taking off on his mission to defend the airspace at the Sotoan border.
DH: (checking targets for the mission) Hmmm, MIG-21s. By what the orders state there are six of them.
Two other pilots ready their aircraft for takeoff to fly with Dark Hooves. They are his wingmen.
DH: (on the radio) Radio check, can you hear me?
Pilot A: Roger, we hear you loud and clear captain.
DH: Good finish pre-flight checks and then we can proceed with the mission. Remember to check your targets, we don't want a repeat of what happened last time.
Pilot B: Yes sir, that was unfortunate a civilian plane was shot down by one of our fighters.
Feisler walked into the briefing room and was surprised to find only his Wing Commander, Colonel Richard Tyiev, present.
"Sir?" Feisler asked, hoping beyond hope something wasn't wrong, "is... is there an issue? I was supposed to meet the remaining flights for today's sortie in here."
Colonel Tyiev checked his watch. "You're still ten minutes early, Feisler. And geez, you look sweaty."
"I biked here, sir," Feisler said proudly, unconsciously puffing himself up. The Colonel didn't seem to care and switched on a radio in the corner of the room.
"We're currently scrambling one of your squadron members right now to check out a flight of six MiGs inbound from Sotoa. They're under orders to keep weapons safe. I would have notified you, but I took temporary command and launched them. This was a time critical mission."
"Of course, sir," Feisler nodded as he sat down and listened to the radio transmissions, "are you planning on sortieing the rest of Windigo Squadron?"
Tviev shook his head. "I think these fighters have this one down. If anything gets hairy, of course, we're prepping your Mirage for launch. I'm still not sure why you insisted on such an old plane. Dark Hooves and his guys are using F-5s."
"She's old, sir, but she's a competent fighter," Feisler replied.
The Colonel nodded. "Gaudy paint scheme, though. Blue and white?"
Feisler smiled, "Sir, I'd like to keep that if possible. It's a personal touch."
At that moment the radio crackled to life once more and the two officers listened in.
Post Merge
(Also, Dark Hooves, you might want to change your post. This is a war with Sotoa, and Ustio/Belka are on the other side of the world, though they'll come into play later)
Post Merge
...
The Sotoan fighters formed up in a tight six-man formation. While their underwing pylons carried only imaging equipment, the aircraft's guns were fully-loaded. Resplendent in the blue camouflage of the Sotoan Navy, the aircraft banked as one and turned towards the Verusean coast.
"Galdetz One to all aircraft," the lead fighter called out, "inbound to the target area. Remember- no hostilities. Our orders are to fly up the coast transmitting friendly IFF. We will then record the Veruseans' coastal defense positions and evaluate their current air force if we are intercepted. How copy?"
"Solid copy," the others responded in sequence. This was a monumental moment; the first combat sortie flown over Verusea. No weapons would be fired, but their part in the coming days, they knew, would be critical.
DH: (to the command center) We're scrambling now sir, as order we will stay weapons safe until otherwise instructed.
His fighter and his wingmen's fighter approach the entrance to the runway assuming takeoff positions.
DH: Awaiting clearance for takeoff.
Feisler listened as the radio calls came through.
"Aircraft calling, your squadron is under the temporary callsign of "Reaper." Use this callsign to report. Reaper squadron, clear for takeoff."
DH: Roger that, Reaper Squadron proceeding with takeoff.
The squadron throttle up to max thrust and quickly gain speed and after reaching takeoff speed the start climbing into the air gaining altitude quickly.
Down the coast, the Sotoan aircraft turned, following the sandy beaches of Verusea north. They knew they would be picked up on air radar at any moment, and prepared to be intercepted.
"Imaging pod online," the lead aircraft called as his camera pod swiveled to observe all that lay below.
Reaper flight reaches the area of operations.
DH: (on the radio) Tally ho, six bandits 12 o'clock low. Confirmed as the flight of MIG-21s. Requesting permission to intercept.
Colonel Tyiev took the radio and spoke.
"Reaper Squadron, you have permission to intercept, however you are ordered not to fire upon the MiGs."
DH: Roger that command.
Reaper flight moves to intercept the MIGs which the fly as a formation towards them.
"Galdetz Squadron," the lead plane called, "we are being intercepted. Continue forward and do not break formation."
Reaper flight gets on the six o clock position behind the flight of MIG 21s which Dark Hooves locks onto the lead MIG.
DH: (on the radio) Target locked, as order weapons safe until given new orders. These MIGs aren't carrying any missiles from what I can see. (he takes a closer look) They're carrying camera pods, looks like we intercepted a reconasance flight. Repeat.
Reaper 2 and Reaper 3 are a little further behind Dark Hooves covering his six.
Feisler looked anxiously at Colonel Tyiev. With tensions as high as they were, it would be hard to prevent a shooting, and the Sotoan MiGs had the right to be above coastal airspace as long as they continued transmitting their position. They were powerless.
"Sir, it seems we don't have a choice," he said finally, "if those MiGs want to get a look at our facilities, we are obliged to let them do so."
Tyiev nodded. "Affirmative. I'm going to send you up to rendezvous. We'll see if we can get them to break away by increasing the pressure. Your flight meeting can wait. I'll brief the other members of your squadron myself when they arrive."
Feisler nodded and saluted, then proceeded to prepare for his launch. On the ramp, his white and blue Mirage F1 was already fueled up with the canopy open. He climbed in and started his preflight checks, listening to his briefing at the same time. When all was ready, he closed the canopy and released his brakes.
"Windigo One, ready for taxi."
"Windigo One, cleared to taxi for Runway Two Seven, standard taxi."
Feisler taxi'd out, keeping an eye on his radar. The Sotoans were scheduled to be above the airfield within fifteen minutes. It would be an interesting encounter to be sure.
DH: (looking at his radar) I see you're sending up another pilot, I request he or she take the trail position behind us just in case there are more than what the report states.
Reaper flight continues following the flight of MIGs keeping them within missile range.
Reaper 2 and Reaper 3 keep their heads on a swivel watching out for anymore potentially hostile aircraft.
Feisler flew in from the east, feeling his aircraft shudder as he forced it into an opposite bank, using aerodynamic braking to fall into the formation behind and slightly above Reaper squadron.
"Reaper aircraft, Windigo One reporting. I'm tracking your targets and I have radar contact. We are still under a no-fire order, but are advised to switch to our international radio channel to contact them. Leren AB is tucking away whatever sensitive equipment it has right now, but we need to slow these pilots down before they get there, to buy some time. You are permitted to activate missile tracking radar at this time."
DH: Roger that Wendigo One, turning missile tracking on now. (switching radio channels) To the aircraft at my 12 o clock, you are approaching restricted airspace and you are hereby requested to alter course. (he gets a missile lock on the lead MIG)
The lead MiG did not change course. Instead he radioed his own pilots.
"Galdetz, do not communicate. They have no authority to down us."
(sorry but can I... be one of your pilots?...)
(You bet! Just head over to the signup thread here and fill out a character sheet. Always great to have another ace on board! http://forum.legendsofequestria.com/index.php?topic=9004.0 Also, make sure you give the rules and synopsis a quick glance as well)
(Sir, done and ready for action!)
(Awesome! You can come in as you wish. My advice would be to wait until we land, since this'll be a very quick mission)
Feisler was about to order the Sotoans to turn back when he suddenly heard the tone indicating that someone had a missile radar tracking him. Without warning, four dark shapes dropped out of the clouds behind the Verusean aircraft- Sotoan J-20s. All aircraft were painted dark grey and black, and bore yellow stripes on the wings.
"We have you covered, Galdetz, proceed with your mission," the lead aircraft called, "Aethon Squadron, do not let the Veruseans out of your sight."
"Windigo and Reaper, this is Command! You are ordered to break away from targets ASAP!"
Feisler swore. "Roger, Command, Windigo disengaging."
DH: (on the radio) Roger that command. Reaper 2, Reaper 3, we are going to dive for the deck with full AB to egress from the combat area.
Pilot A: Roger
Pilot B: Wilco
Reaper flight turn hard right with Dark Hooves using the rudder to make his plane turn tighter than his wingmen's planes then they dive to the deck with the burners lit gaining speed rapidly. Reaper 3's plane starts to waver as he starts losing consciousness the g force being too much for the rookie pilot.
The auto-pilot makes the plane level off 50 feet above the ground. Reaper flight egresses from the combat area.
(Then I will be at the Tomcat, still with the Pegasus book and I will erase the last post)
*Climbs into the Tomcat cockpit with a book of the size of a boxes of shoes*
Feisler lands, silently fuming as the MiGs pass by overhead with their escorts.
Reaper flight lands which they park their planes in the hangar.
DH: (exits the cockpit and takes his flight helmet off throwing it to the ground which shatters the visor) PONY FEATHERS!!!!!!! The blasted ace squadron showed up again! (he growls angrily as he walks to the debriefing room)
Calm down... those things are expensive...
*Yagdra steps into the hangar and picks up Reapers Helmet*
Here... *hands over to him*
Rought Flight?
DH: It wasn't even a fight, they would have overpowered us all. I lost my entire squadron because of them. I barely got away from them and ran out of fuel over this airbase which I bailed out. (he snatches the helmet and continues to the debriefing room silently)
Reaper 2 and Reaper 3 walk passed silently as well.
*sighs and walks towards the briefing room door and stands at the side of the door with his back on the wall*
Post Merge
*speaks to reaper* I know this will just
Read the forum rules. you off even more but... at least they died fighting... right?...
Feisler regrouped with the other pilots. "Glad to meet you. I'm Marcus Feisler. We're headed for briefing room 4B for details on our coming sorties. As you all saw, Sotoa's been acting up. I'm hoping this doesn't escalate, but... if my luck's anything to go off, we won't be so lucky."
Post Merge
As Feisler and the others walked into the briefing room, Colonel Tyiev addressed them.
"Good work up there. I know it was difficult, but we managed to avoid starting a war this morning. I wish you all the best of luck during your deployment here, and let me be the first to say- welcome to Leren Air Base."
The Colonel walked out of the room, and Feisler called "Room, tench-hut! as he left.
"Carry on," Tyiev called back. Feisler relaxed and loaded a thumb drive into a computer the base personnel had set up for briefings. Within moments the projector whirred to life and Feisler addressed the others.
"Good morning. I'd hoped to have this meeting before we sortied, but as you saw we weren't so lucky. All of you have been called out here to form a provisional combat wing, in response to Sotoa's latest military actions. This wing will consist of squadrons formed by us. Reaper-" he turned to Dark Hooves and his men, "-you may change your callsign at your own discretion. I understand "reaper" might sound cliched. I apologize for our lack of good fighters. Leren's a holdover from the Belkan War, and they have yet to replace their aircraft here. Still, each of you was called here because your respective regional commands decided that you were the best. That's what our superiors are expecting, and that's what I intend to give 'em. Who's in?"
*steps inside*
Count me in...give any aircraft you have left, lets say that mines...its "under construction"
(Well the thing is- we don't know the Pegasus exists yet)
Feisler raised an eyebrow. "Yours is in maintenance? Understood. There's a fair selection of aircraft here, so from what I understand you can take your pick. Any ideas on your squadron name yet?"
Mmhhh... how about... Equinox....? *looks at him with a smile* (can you tell me your rank so I can reffer you as "Captain" or "Commander" and such?)
Equinox it is. (Feisler is a Captain, as is Dark Hooves. This does not mean you have to be a lower rank than him, however, since you don't actually work for Feisler)
Then I will just Grab an F - 16, Sir... Call me as soon as you are ready to depart... I just finished the training but I hope I will be of help... *starts walking towards another hangar*
Feisler turned to Dark Hooves. "It seems your squadron's already together. Like I said- you certainly don't have to be called "reaper" if you'd prefer something else."
How about calling yourself "Nemesis"? good for revenge if you ask me... *giggles*
DH: I'm in, I want to get back at them for what they have done. At least I managed to save my wingmen this time. So what all do you have for aircraft? I was using the F-5s to train these young pilots. We will be the Raven Squadron.
Pilot A: I wonder what plane's we'll get.
Dark Hooves: (sitting while thinking) That ace squadron..................... (thinks about the day he lost his entire squadron)
"This airfield's primarily gen 3's and 4's," Feisler responded, "I'm flying a Mirage from inland, and we'll be receiving an A-5 Vigilante and an F-4 for Windigo as well when 2 and 3 fly in. Like I said though- this place is pretty much an air museum; a lot of old, but well-maintained jets."
Feisler turned at the sound of a C-17 landing outside. "Keep an ear out for a phone call. I heard we might get called up tomorrow morning for another sortie... and it might not be so friendly this time."
DH: Do we have any F-15 Eagles? If so I request we get three of them for myself and my wingmen.
Phone Calls for battle pilots are never friendly! *screams from the F-16 cockpit*
"There are a few F-15Cs on the flight line if you'd like 'em. I- hold on" Feisler grabbed his now vibrating cell phone and had a look at it. After a moment he shut it down and pocketed it.
"We've scrambled our fleet," he said, "the Navy's on alert and they want us to provide Combat Air Patrols while they move out. With most of our ships clustered like that, they're vulnerable should Sotoa decide to make a move."
*starts the plane* Then we should move out imediatly, Clusters are always tempting targets, plus we cant afford to lose ships either.
Sir! *Turns to Feisler* Do I have clearance?
DH: Are those planes prepped and ready for takeoff?
Feisler wasted no time in getting on the phone with Colonel Tyiev.
"Yes sir, we'll launch immediately." He pocketed his phone once more. "Wing, we launch now. Scramble!"
Since Im alone I`ll go first then The Reaven Squad con go after you ok with that Reaper? *turns to Reaper*
DH: That's Raven Squadron, please remember that.
Dark Hooves and his wingmen rush to the F-15Cs and do the essential pre-flight checks for take off and proceed onto the runway and start their take off quickly gaining speed.
DH: Raven 1 to command, we're taking off now. Raven 2, Raven 3, pay attention to what you are doing. I haven't programmed the auto-pilot on these yet.
Pilot A: Roger.
Pilot B: Yes sir.
The take off quickly gaining altitude and make a left turn flying towards the combat airspace.
Feisler ran at full sprint out to his jet, which was already fueled up once more. He climbed in and sealed the canopy, starting his preflight checks.
"Equinox and Raven Squadrons, radio check."
*radio static*
This is Equinox 1 double-checked controls and ready to roll out, over.
Countin on you Ravens *radio static*
*the F-16 takes off and follows the Ravens off close*
Lets make it quick and clean people.
DH: (static) Roger, once we're airborne you cover Equinox's six Raven 3.
Raven 3: Wilco.
*static* how far are from the rendezvous point Raven 1 ? and What should we expect?
Feisler rolled out and descended to fifty feet AGL, just above the water.
"Turn to a heading of two eight zero, rendezvous in one seven miles." Feisler turned on his red and green nav lights to identify himself.
"Equinox, Raven and Windigo, this is AWACS Overseer, please report."
"Roger," Feisler responded, "Windigo One has communication, you are loud and clear."
DH: Read you loud and clear AWACS. How far are we from contact with the bogeys?
Equinox here, hear you Wide and Clear
"No bogeys, rendezvous is now one five miles."
DH: Roger that AWACS. To all allied aircraft, keep your heads on a swivel. They are out there, don't let your guard down.
*static* My I ask who where the ones who took down your scuadron Raven 1?
DH: (radio static) The Aethon Squadron. (continues looking around for any enemy planes)
*static* Then how did...you know... you look like pretty hard to take by surprise...
DH: I'll talk to you with that on the ground, we have a mission to do.
*static* Roger... Raven 1
Feisler do you have something?.... I feel like if somethings off... Say again where are we headed to?
Feisler remains level. "Look sharp, the fleet's at our one o' clock."
Below the fighters, several Verusean naval vessels seemed to materialize out of the hazy air, headed for the Sotoan border.
*static* Ask to the fleet if they have something on they radar...
The aircraft fly over the fleet, circling them protectively. Suddenly AWACS cuts in again.
"All aircraft, a volley of missiles has been detected inbound from the West! Radar signature confirms them to be anti-ship missiles fired long-range from an unknown source! Engage them!"
*static*
Yagdrassil here! Use any kind of countermeasure you have! *breaks formation and increases speed meanwhile locking on the Missiles and firing his owns meanwhile he keeps taking other ones with his Guns*
Feisler checked his radar, downing a missile headed straight towards an aircraft carrier. The signatures totaled over fifty. The chances of stopping every missile was impossible.
"Hang on," he mumbled, chasing another missile at low level. He glanced at his radar again. Hidden amongst the missiles' radar clutter... enemy aircraft!
"Radar contact bearing two niner zero!" Feisler called, "multiple enemy fighters not squawking friendly IFF!"
"All aircraft cleared to engage!" Overseer called back, "wipe them out!"
*static*
They think they are so smart!
*starts chasing an enemy plane*
Cmmon...lock... *Locked* Shows off! *Fires the missile blowing it away* Feisler you got two of them at your 3 I will take care of the one at your 6, ready?
*starts making his way towards Feislers plane*
Feisler, hearing the radio transmission, banked left hard, calling out "Thach!" Moments later, he crisscrossed with Yagdrassil, executing a perfect Thach Weave. At the completion of the maneuver, Feisler rolled up and over, taking out the two pursuers with heatseekers. Below, he could see the exhaust trails from the incoming anti-ship missiles.
"They're going to hit!" he called.
DH: Roger, Raven flight you are weapons free. Shoot down the enemy fighters. Master switch to armed position. Got missile lock, fox 1-fox 1.
Dark Hooves locks on to four enemy fighters and launches a volley of four amraams, one at each plane.
Raven 2 covers Raven 1's tail.
Raven 3 engages a fighter on Equinox's six.
Raven 3: Heads up Equinox, you got a bogey on your six. I need to get a good shot off at him.
Below, the missiles impacted the fleet, ripping chunks out of large ships and all but disintegrating smaller ones. The sea was a mess of oil, fire, and sinking ships. The few that weren't damaged were hard at work trying to pull survivors aboard, but more missiles continued to show on radar.
Feisler engaged a MiG 21 which was headed towards Raven 3. Bringing his throttle back, he held his airplane steady just above stall speed, tearing strips of metal off the MiG as it attempted to force him to overshoot. As the aircraft burst into flames, Feisler kicked in his throttle and circled again, looking down at the ships. He was speechless.
"...what the hay happened?" he whispered finally, "that's nearly a fifth of our navy down there..."
*static* Copy that Raven 3... this will be a moved trip *steers the plane to the left very quickly leaving the bogey behind him clear as day and fires a missile towards the plane behinds Feisler*
From where they came from? On a solo mission or they have a carrier near?, over.
"All planes, Overseer. I have detected five missiles inbound following a ballistic trajectory to your position. Analysis is in progress, standby for evasive maneuvers."
*static* Equinox here, standing sharp, end up those calculus fast Overseer
Farther away from the battlefield, the nondescript missiles streaked skyward from their launch point. Though no one knew it, each missile contained no less than four hundred tungsten rods, capable of creating a deadly rain on any target area. Anyone flying under the rods' impact point would be vaporized out of sheer impact force. The missiles continued their deadly arc, and at the apogee, split open, sending the rods cascading downward.
...
Feisler stood by as Overseer called back.
"Aircraft in the area, missiles just released an unfamiliar radar signature. It looks vaguely cloud-like. Advise you stay out of the cloud's path- we don't know what we're dealing with here."
Feisler checked his radar and sure enough, several fuzzy circular shapes were steadily spreading out over the fighters. He banked hard and punched full afterburner, pulling himself away as fast as he could.
"Evasive maneuvers," he called, "unknown ordinance inbound!"
*static* Are those... What the hell?! *try to lose altitude and gain speed and dogde the cloud of rods* Ravens careful!
*almost at the egde of the cloud* Daaaaaaaaaamn! *One of the rodes scratchs the cockpit window and one of the wings*
C-crap! *loose stability but regains it before loosing control* Overseer! how many of them are?!
After avoiding the cloud of shrapnel Dark Hooves sees a large exhaust plume coming at them.
DH: I got a visual on the unknown ordinance, oh no. All aircraft zoom climb to above 5000 feet, we've got a burst missile incoming.
Raven flight zoom climbs to 7000 feet after shooting down a few MIGs.
//submarine launched burst missile has multiple warheads that cover a large area up to 5000 feet
(I'll start posting music and mission titles soon)
Music:
Overseer: "projectiles two miles out, closing..."
*static* Raven 1, will try to reach your height I need you to check my wing damage *starts steering the plane up*
DH: Roger that Equinox.
//Nimbus, plz use the youtube button when inserting videos to the posts and put them in spoilers to help with page loading times.
(Will do, I'm still figuring out this forum... X3 )
"Impact in 5, 4, 3, 2, 1..."
Feisler watched in horror as over a thousand rods tore through the air, ripping anything in their path to shreds. Enemy aircraft had already cleared out, but several friendlies had not moved fast enough, and were paying the price. Feisler had pulled clear with only seconds to spare.
DH: Raven 1 reporting, AWACS Overseer, I request we get an anti-submarine plane out here to drop some sonar-buoys. I strongly believe there may be a submarine launching those missiles at us.
Overseer: "Raven 1, we are currently viewing satellite imagery from the launch location. Infrared picked up a heat signature, which was clocked at around mach 2 at low level. Definitely not a sub. Get back to base and prepare to launch again for ground attack. We're going to strike whatever this thing was back."
"You sure the air is clear?" A voice crackled throughout the cockpit. Recruit David Davidson was on his first assignment. He couldn't remember the true purpose of this mission, but all his Capt. told him was to "Follow his lead."
And follow he did. Escorting a AC130 gunship seemed easy enough, and so far, it was. Resting above cloud level, the five planes scanned the area. Nothin' but clouds.
Of course, his fellow squadmates kept their formation, while the recruit tried to do so. His flight swayed back and forth a little, once almost glazing the broadside of the gunship.
His hands were tensed, moist with sweat. He could feel it under his tight gloves. A "Fighting Falcon.", suited the name for both the jet and its purpose. It was a mulit-role, balanced fighter, and he was proud to fly such one.
"Something's on radar..." Another voice filled the loneliness inside the cockpit, other than the noise of the engines.
"Nah, quit your wining." A different voice ranged out through the private channel. "We've checked with the local airports. Nothing but clear skies with pluffs of clouds."
"...No...Wait..." His voiced was accompanied by static noise. "50...100...Oh god,"
"Bogeys! Twelve O'clock high!"
David perked up, his view adjusting to the blips ahead of them. It only took one millisecond for the whole crew to realize what they are.
"Oh- Bank Right!" The AC130 began its descent towards the clouds. "Flares! Flares!"
"Flares deployed!" A frightened voice began as multiple heat signatures were picked up behind the gunship. David counted them all. It wasn't enough.
"Bank right! God dammit!"
"Break off! Break off!"
Soon, the radio was filled with commands, mercy, and the sounds of death. Maybe...this was the end, this is-
No. He wasn't going to die today.
He banked off to the clouds below, the G-force managing to blur his vision, but not enough to bring him to sleep.
He could see the blips on his radar that showed his allies - gone.
Below the cloud level, he turned on his radio. On an open frequency, he screamed into his radio.
"Final 6-3!" He began. "What is going on out there!"
((Sorry bout me joining late. Sch00l.))
*static* Equinox here, Overseer I need ammo and repairs... and a new cockpit window... that tube almost ripped off my head, Im heading back to base to repairs and resupply and come back as soon as possible...
Post Merge
*static* Equinox here, Overseer I need ammo and repairs... and a new cockpit window... that tube almost ripped off my head, Im heading back to base to repairs and resupply and come back as soon as possible... *sees the bogeys* awww cmmon!
Overseer I will do what I can, no promises thought! *steers up the plane towards the bogeys*
DH: Roger, Raven flight we have orders to RTB.
Raven 2: Roger.
Raven 3: Solid copy Captain.
Raven flight starts flying back to base.
DH: Three MIGs confirmed down Raven 2, nice work. You too Raven 3, one more and you earn the title of ace.
Raven 2: Thank you sir.
Raven 3: Thanks Captain. I confirmed 4 downed MIGs for you sir.
DH: That makes fourteen for me.
//nice double post Puynsi lol XD
Feisler turned his jet towards home, overcome with sadness. Hundreds of lives had been lost in the blink of an eye due to some new weapon, and there was nothing he could do but turn tail and go home. He tuned into the Leren Tower frequency and started his before landing checks.
(Somebeing, I have an idea for you. Can you get your aircraft to make a diversion to Leren Air Base? It'd help the plot tremendously)
A voice came over Davidson's channel.
"Final 6-3, Leren Tower. We confirmed multiple hostiles near your position. What's your status?"
*static* dont worry Raven, been trought worse! *puts down with an artillery barrage 2 bogeys one after another*
(loved the merge, lets you do a before and after)
"Alone, sir."
And that's when he felt it. The calm of the storm. There was nothing accompaning him but the sounds of wind gushing against him and the engines humming behind him. It felt like minutes had passed before he heard a response come out of his radio.
*static* goodjob people... gotta get back...lets say that by 2 inches I didnt explode...*giggle*
Feisler lined up with the runway, checking to make sure his localizer was set for an instrument landing. With the instrument reading correctly, he lowered his flaps and gear, coming in for a landing.
"Thank goodness we got down," he muttered, checking his fuel gauge, "I had about an hour left..."
...
Leren Tower was silent for a moment. It was clear to the controller what had happened, but he was at a loss for words. He'd always assumed that he would never experience war. Now here it was, staring him right in the face. Swallowing, he called Final back.
"Final, we confirm that you are alone. If able, divert to Leren Air Base. We'll take care of you. What's your fuel status?"
*turns to reaper* want to graba a cup of coffe?... its on me.
Raven flight lands on the runway and parks their planes in the hangar.
DH: Sure.
Raven 2: Of course.
Raven 3: Why not.
DH: Make sure that you get those kill marks painted on your aircraft.
Raven 2 & 3: Yes Captain.
//it is Raven, not Reaper
"Um." He paused to check his fuel, only to realize that the meter was awfully moving fast...
"I've got a leak, sir." He stated. "Got a good 10 minutes left, then I'm drifting."
He slammed his fist towards the fuel indicator. This was it...
"Not good," the controller said off-frequency. He returned to the frequency and called back.
"Final, you are cleared for landing runway Two Seven. Traffic will be holding short for you... listen- you can do this."
*steps inside the room* Then use those good 10 to land... sorry to interrupt captain... he can use the air friction... but we will net a net...
Feisler was about to head inside himself when he caught movement out of the corner of his eye- a lone F-16 trailing smoke was making its way into the traffic pattern. Feisler set down his flight gear and stood, mesmerized. He'd never seen anything like it before. He'd fought today, seen death... but nothing drove the fact that things were going terribly wrong home like what he was seeing now. He found himself staring at the lone fighter, willing it to come down.
"Come on," he whispered, "you've got this."
"Yeah..." He said to himself. He stared into his radar, the purple symbol for an airport flashing infront of him. Something else caught his eyes.
"...I'm noticed." He said to himself. He raised his voice so the air traffic controller could hear.
"I've got two contacts, sir. Coming in at my high six. Could be scouting my recent position, sir."
He activated his gears as he came for a landing.
So close, just a few more kilometers.
*static* Cap... give te coordinates... now *Yagdra left the place a while ago and was already flying with his damaged F - 16
"Oh no..." Feisler whispered. There were two very distinct shapes coming in over the horizon- fighters- and they were headed for the aircraft on final. He raced back to his Mirage.
"How much fuel in here?" he asked.
"Thirty minutes," the maintenance officer nearby replied.
"I'm launching," Feisler said, climbing up and strapping himself in. As he prepared himself for takeoff, he activated his radar. More hits were coming in from the same direction as the other two planes. Things were about to get messy. Feisler punched his comm.
"Tower, Windigo One, I am taking off runway One Zero, emergency departure. Be advised, multiple contacts on radar."
The controller was now split between two tasks. He had a crippled plane on final, and another one requesting an emergency departure.
"Windigo One, cleared for taxi, takeoff no delay!"
Feisler punched his throttles and taxied forwards, heading for the runway. The F-16 was closer, but the other fighters were gaining. Without hesitation, he lit his burners and roared skyward, passing by the F-16 in the opposite direction as he turned.
"Yagdra, multiple contacts bearing Two Zero Zero, probable fighters."
Post Merge
(Just a heads-up, I'll be leaving for a night flight irl in about twenty minutes, so I won't be back until later. The RP can go on, but keep it focused on the air battle. I'll move the plot along when I get back.)
*static* copy that Wendigo 1, time to get some revenge, lets just hope that the fuel tank doesnt explode! *laughts and starts making his way towards the fighters* Hello blockheads! *deploy the first set of flares to distract the fighters and then perfoms an machinegun sweep bringing down one of them*
"Aw-" No. Not another one was going to be in the hands of them.
"Final 6-3. Permission to assist, sir. I've got five minutes left. I can help."
*static* Negative I got it covered, dont make my trip go to waste! *keeps avoiding strafe fire*
"Final 6-3," Feisler responded, "your priority is landing. That said, we have a ton of enemy fighters coming in. You have two minutes. Once you're on three minutes reserve you land."
Post Merge
"Aircraft in the pattern be advised," Tower said, "multiple bombers approaching behind the initial wave. They are your priority."
*puts down the 2ยบ fighter and call Feisler* Are we done?... Now Im actually out of ammo... that one got the last 20 bullets..
"Go ahead and land," Feisler called, "rearm and get Raven flight up here as well. I'll keep the bombers off you."
*static* 10-4 Cap... I will make it as fast as I can... *steers down to gain as much speed as possible and make it back to base* (can I drag out my bombcat? to fasten up things?)
(Yep, you can do that.)
*lands into the hangar and look for the mechannic* It will be ready in 10 minutes? Mec: Yeah right! Yagdra: Hay! Ok wheres the bomcat?! Mec: I just finished of waxing it up... you dont...aahh.. just get out of here.. *goes away all fed up*
OK! *sits on the cockpit* Alright big guy... time to make you fly! *gets out of the hangar and flyes away towards Feisler direction* Ya allright cap?!
Feisler popped his airbrakes and laid waste to two MiG-29s that had attempted to follow him. "I'm good, Equinox." He turned southwest, toward the approaching bombers, "but we're going to have some trouble on our hands if those bombers get to the base. Final Six Three, what's your status?"
*locks the bombers* They look to have thick armors... So I suggest taking out the pilots Captain...
David looked at his right wing. A few missiles skidded off the metal exterior. Hopefully it would last.
"Final 6-3 here sir! Fuel is low but got a payload of mid-range missiles at disposal. Paint the targets, sir."
Feisler switched on his targeting pod and turned towards the approaching TU-95 "Bear" bombers. "Targets are lased, Final, take the shot if you can."
//sorry about suddenly getting off, was busy
Raven flight is repairing their planes.
"Copy!" Aiming a good 2 missiles per plane, he fired most of his supplies. The missiles engulfed the bombers in a haze of warm colours.
"Sir, I'm still dectecting three more just off my range, I'm going for 'em!" He said, applying full thrust to his engines.
Feisler keyed his mic "Final, you need to get back to base. You're probably running on fumes by now. I've got 'em."
The Mirage went full afterburner, sweeping its guns across the bombers and performing an Immelman, righting himself behind the Bears and firing off a few missiles. The Bears burst into flame, but one went down slowly, dropping bombs towards the base.
DH: ( On the ground radio) Will take off after repairs are complete.
David noticed the bomber drop its bomb. A new threat worried him.
"Did any hit the runways?" He asked. "I repeat. Did any, hit the runways?"
Feisler circled around and instantly swore. "Yeah, there's a crater towards the start of the runway. You're going to have to eyeball your landing. Pull full brakes and back elevator once you're down. It'll be a short field landing."
David looked back. He could clearly see a crater-sized hole, just like Niles said.
"Alright." He said to himself, trying his best to calm down. "You can do this. Two minutes of fuel, and-"
He heard a burp from the engine. He couldn't tell which one, but the noise diminished down greatly.
"Uh. Sir, I'm on one engine now. She isn't going to make it!"
*Positionates himself down of the busted plane* Good haymmit! told you to not make my trip go to waste! Sir I got an idea but you are not going to like it....
"I see your aircraft, final. Listen- pitch for best glide speed. Tell me- is either wing dropping? Is your approach stabilized? Use opposite rudder; that should take care of the yawing."
Keep you balance and stay on me, get it? I wasted to much ammo and fuel to let you die...*gets near the floor with Finals plane on the back, Cap!, Gimme the signal and I just leave him to land!
"This is suicidal, sir! If I'm going to die, I rather do it alone."
He continued to glide onto the plane, one small mistake and the both of them are gone.
"Rudder on left. Pitch, pitch..." He said to himself, trying to take control of his current situation.
Feisler pulled into formation next to Final.
"Okay, I'm following you down. If anything comes up, I'll spot it. Do not forget that I know you can do this. Put that plane back down on the tarmac."
"Whatever you say, sir." He replied. He wished that his boring escort mission continued like so. He didn't wish for a war, nobody did.
*static* Here Equinox requesting permission to land... and a little medical assistance...
Tower called up Equinox, still trying to come to terms with what had happened.
"Equinox, cleared to enter the pattern, number two for landing behind Final."
*static* Copy that Cap...*cough* Will try... *gets into the formation*
For a second, David felt nothing. The extreme winds soon turned into a calm breeze. The sounds of his comrades were no more, and he could see the clouds.
Then the second passed.
His front wheel landed with a thud, soon joined by his other gears as well. He couldn't believe it, but one thing laid in front of him.
With a smaller runway already, breaking down to a minimal speed was another challenge. He had to rely on the brakes equipped on the gears.
He flipped the switch, but nothing seemed to change. It would be another fifteen seconds before he would hit the rocky grass around the airport.
"Tower, sir!" He said through his comms. "I've got no way of slowing this bird down. Brake pedals have pressure, but she isn't going to make it." He was right. She was closer to her imminent down, and so was he.
He sighed. "Make sure you get them a good one, sir."
Feisler felt panic begin taking over. The F-16 was getting closer to the edge of the runway, and the brakes were obviously shot. Sure enough, the aircraft was trailing hydraulic fluid as it sped towards the sandy beach at the runway's edge.
"Retract your gear," Feisler said, wincing at the thought, "once you start scraping the ground, pull back on the stick. The extra deflection should slow you down, and there's no fuel left in your aircraft to ignite."
*static* How bout...*pant* a missile explosion for brake cap? *cough*
"Sir, if I do that..." There was no time, no other way. He could either continue his course, and die, or make a hasty maneuver and retract his gear, and die by a faulty wing
He looked at it. It barely survived after being constantly blasted by the friction of air, but this was matter. It wasn't any old matter, it was asphalt.
And if that wing came off, Equinox would have no chance to land with all the mess he would create.
"That's a negative sir." He finally mustered to say. "I'll let her glide, give Equinox a chance. Good huntin'" He turned off his comms, he wouldn't be needing them anyways.
*static* Heh... I like this guy... *starts aiming the missiles with his console* Lets see... 2 missiles?....well... all left its up to lady luck! *fires the first missile way ahead of Final and then a second later fires the second not so near creating a combined wind wave* Final Steer up NOW!
Final did as he was told, giving all his might on his joystick.
The frightening sound of forcefully shredded metal sealed his fate. His right wing, was gone.
Detached. It spun rapidly behind the one-winged aircraft, before coming to a stop fifty meters away.
The plane, with only one piece of metal sticking out, began to spin. Without a wing, it was almost impossible to stabilizer.
Still on the ground, Final continued his path in waves, the tires screeching a grey mark behind him that would scare him for hours.
"Ugh...Just might..." He said, doing everything he can to gain back control of his pride, his jet.
*static* Sir! Im out of missiles! Use yours at the sides of the road! We can directly stop him but you can stabilize it!
Feisler fired a single missile near the end of the runway, in Final's path.
(We have two runways. One of them would just be a straight crosswind. I misread and thought you were already on the ground, sorry.)
(no problem) *static* Good shoot Cap!
He could feel his body lunged foward in a unnatural way. It felt horrible.
He could feel his body lunged back into his seat. It, was also horrible.
Then, everything stopped. All the buildings stopped moving, the planes as well.
A huge realization came to him. Did he...live?
Surprised, he stayed in his cockpit for minutes, trying to understand what just happened.
Feisler flew over, banking a wing and acknowledging Final's landing.
"I'll have some words for him," he mumbled, "but for now, he's alive, that's all that matters. Equinox, you're up for landing. Bring 'er down."
*static* Yes...sir... *Yagdra lands the bombcat at the side of his trashed F - 16 and opens the cockpit* H...hey! Ugh...not...good
*as he tryes to climb down he faints due to his injury who was far worse than he spected and falls to the floor*
Feisler comes in with a crosswind on the second runway and taxis in. When he gets out, he heads over towards Equinox. Medical personnel have already arrived.
"You're gonna be okay," he said, simultaneously looking around for the pilot of Final 6-3.
Final was beside his plane, staring into it. 24 hours ago, his brother gave it to him, believing him to be a fine pilot in the military. 12 hours ago, he was assigned to escort a Gunship along Final 6-0.
Everytime, he looked at his jet. Damaged or not, he was honored to fly with it.
Fiesler approached from behind.
"Are you the pilot whose callsign was Final 6-3?"
"Yes, sir." He simply said without any body motion visible.
Feisler sighed. He'd never had to speak to another airman in this way before.
"That was an excellent landing. How are you feeling?"
Post Merge
(Sorry I've been on and off. I was working on Dark Hooves' original aircraft, which is now complete)
"Like I should've died with the rest of my squad, sir." He sighed.
*throws his helmet towards Finals belly* Shut up and Repair your aircraf! Medic: Dont move you fool! Yagdra: I told you that I wasnt going to let you die! *The medic keeps yelling at him while Yagdra its taking away to Infirmary*
"I'm sorry," Feisler said quietly, and turned away. "Listen, if you need somewhere to go... there's a lounge in the ready room. I can take you there if you'd like."
He paused for a second. Those brisk seconds when he saw his whole squad engulfed in flames, all killed. He just watched. He stared down, the helmet which Equinox threw at him gave a grim reminder to his thoughts.
Why was his life saved, and not the CO ace?
"I...guess I have no choice, sir." He sighed yet again.
"Come on," Feisler said with a grim smile, "let's get you something warm to drink."
... [end of mission]
Feisler was rubbing his bleary eyes as he sat in his chair in the briefing room. Up front, a few intelligence officers were discussing some points with Colonel Tyiev. Fiesler turned his head, looking for his other squadmates.
*sits next to Feisler a bandage with some staints covered the belly and he had a plaster on his cheek* What do you think about Final Cap?...
Feisler rubbed his eyes. "What do I think about him? I'm trying to find time to break it to him that he should have listened and done a gear-up landing. I just can't bring myself to do it. He's barely an adult! He lost every man in his squadron yesterday and he came back for a safe landing. That's nothing if not commendable."
And maybe... It wont be the last time...*turns his face away* Why are you here Feisler... I obviously realized that you almost break up when flying... Its your first time fighting and seeing war?...
"Why am I here?" Feisler echoed. "I'm here because the 'Sotes got angry and decided to shoot at us. That's about it. I came from inland. There hasn't been a war in Verusea for nearly thirty years- we even managed to stay out of that Belkan mess. So yeah, you could say I've never seen war. I wouldn't say I broke up, though... My words may have been harsh. I just wanted to see Final get to the ground safely.
The projector whirred to life, displaying an image of an oblong, dark, almost disc-like shape. The quality of the photo was grainy, and Feisler had a hard time making out what it was. If he didn't know any better, he'd have sworn it was a UFO hoax photo.
"This will be the goal of your mission today," Tyiev said, pointing at the image. "In the 1960s, Sotoa worked closely with Yuktobania to develop a ground-effect aircraft- basically a plane designed to cruise at low level and high speed, much like a hovercraft. Such a vehicle could be larger than a standard hovercraft, and potentially be capable of extremely high speeds. This image was captured from yesterday's launch site, and was tracked at just over Mach 1. Obviously not a ship. We believe that the vehicle that fired upon you and our navy yesterday was a ground effect aircraft, configured for taking out ships and their air support in one quick dash. We've tracked it via satellite, but we lost it in a fog bank this morning. We know where it is roughly, but it's up to you to find this threat and eliminate it. On another note, Chancellor Schavan of Sotoa formally declared war this morning. I can't impress upon you enough how serious this has become. You need to be on top of your respective games. Are their any questions?"
I have... many indeed... *Yagdra stands holding his hand on his belly* With all due respect... How the hay are we supposed to fight against something that shoots Missiles with giant tubes warheads? I mean... dont you have something that we cant use to counter it? a virus, a camouflage system... Something?... *slam his hand against the table* `cuz If we are going to war and we dont have the technological egde.... We must do a lot more than just "beeing on top of our games"
Tyiev shot Yagdra a withering glance.
"Captain, we are working to boost our technological prowess, but what you have to understand is that Sotoa has had close contact with Yuktobania's R&D centers. We are at a severe disadvantage on technology, and we have no support from other countries. Rest assured, though, we are in the process of preparing retaliation systems... which will be on a need-to-know basis. Remember- the ground effect craft's rod missiles show up on radar, so the attacks are avoidable. Also, they told me you pilots were the best. Do you not think you're up to this?"
*Yagdra started getting
Read the forum rules.ed off* We survived today because we where lucky... Yes we are up to ANY task... are our aircrafts up to it- ugh...*grabs his wound* You know what I will better off and help with my planes repairs... *gets up and leaves the room*
Feisler winced as Yagdra left. "I apologize, sir. I'll fill him in on the rest of the details when we're airborne."
Tyiev nodded and continued the briefing.
Post Merge
Half an hour later, Feisler suited up and headed out to the flightline where a standard-camouflage F-4E Phantom II was waiting. The aircraft had been prepped with unguided rocket launchers and several air to air missiles.
Hey... Cap... *Yagdra slowly walks at Feisler side* About...the briefing, Im sorry but Im not taking back what I said... look at this team... Raven its obssesed, Final wont touch another plane in a while... I dont know if I will get better soon... and you...well... Dont take me wrong but last flight affected you... even if you say you dont....
"I'm sorry, Yagdra," Feisler sighed, "but you really don't need to worry about me. Yeah, this is war, but that's what I was trained for, and I aim to do the best I can. I don't know about Raven and Final, but I think they'll come around. If anything, I'm just worried about Final. The kid was pretty messed up emotionally last time I saw him."
*sigh* Just keep an eye for him... I dont want a loose pilot mid flight, but Im sure he will do fine, he just needs...time... *laughts* And thats JUST what we dont have...Im off tunning up the F - 16, I will try that the junk flyes even faster... *leaves towards his plane* Dont get to caught up Feisler... Unfortunately we are stuck with eachother so we better patch this emotional pit just fine...
"You bet." Feisler smiled as he climbed into the cockpit of his F-4. He had more time than the previous day to go through his checklists, and took his time, waiting for his comrades to radio in.
"Radio check," he called.
*static* Equinox Check... Who repaired this?! The afterburners are trashed! *many cling-clang noises are heard*
(I don't want to progress too far without the others, so I'll let Dark Hooves or Somebeing post before we actually take off. I finished DH's original aircraft. Did you want me to draw yours? If so, I need a visual description)
(Im going to be honest, I have no idea about aircrafts... other than names... but at least the weapons are already at the other forum so I still need to pick a visual and the frame)
"Final 6-3 reporting, sir..." Final 6-3? He was the rest of 6 alone. He couldn't bear to think about what happened yesterday. He wasn't built for fighting, but...it was happening. He learned to cope with it last night but the war...it came so fast for him.
"Tower to Final, permission to taxi onto runway, either one, sir."
Tower called up Final. "Final 6-3, taxi to runway two seven. Follow Windigo One in the F-4."
Feisler did a double take when he heard Final on the radio. "Final? You sure you're good to go on this mission? You can get a break if you want."
"Copy." He replied. Going at three kilometers per hour, he entered gate one, behind Wingdio.
"They're going to need every body in this war, broken or not, sir." He said to Fiesler.
Feisler felt a pang of respect for the pilot. Final had been hit the hardest by the war, and here he was, not even hesitating to get back into action.
"Thanks, Final," he said, "today might be your chance for a little payback."
The F-16C laid behind Feilser F-4E, waiting for clearance from his CO to take off.
His mind still lingered on death. Where will it take him? Would he feel pain? Is there ever such things as heaven?
He shuddered at the thought. Only his comrades know the answer, and they were gone.
Vanished, from existence.
His mind was emulated that he only flew one flight so far. He wasn't prepared for war, he was trained to protect, not fight. That didn't matter to him.
He was flying with one of the greatest squads there were. Captain Raven, Equinox and Mistral, along with their wingmen, and then him himself, Final. A rookie in training, a newbie, but still a Final.
Final of the Finals...he could hear his friend say it once they obtained their call sign.
Feisler lined up on the runway and ran his engine up. "Tower, Windigo One ready for takeoff."
"Cleared for takeoff, Windigo One."
Feisler throttled forward and felt the old aircraft shake as it sped down the runway, followed by the sudden smoothness that indicated takeoff. He was free of the ground once again, and despite everything that he'd been through, this was the feeling he loved the most.
"So...sir." His voice perked up through the radio. "What are our objectives."
The Phantom snapped from a sharp turn to level flight, heading out to sea. "We're instructed to head West, following a satellite signal. Supposedly if we do so, we'll spot this Sotoan "Mystery Ship." If we're lucky, we can sink her."
"And if we don't...?" A new threat frightened him. "Sir. We're a small squadron of planes after something that sunk a entire fleet...sir?"
It just left him dazed and confused. A lone squadron after something experimental...perfect.
"Here's the thing- thus far all this thing has is indirect surface to surface fire. As long as we stay out of range of that rod attack, we should be fine."
*static* If its big enought we can even use electronic counter measures to mess with his auto-defense system.... because lets face it... that big thing HAS auto-defence systems *as the radio cuts out a F - 16 with a little black box on the top of the cockpit appears from behind* Next time at least call me... Equinox 1 here ready for action *gets near into formation*
"All planes, Overseer here. Are you receiving the satellite signal yet?"
Feisler tuned his signal receiver and heard a faint blip. "Affirmative, Overseer, I have contact."
"Alright." David sighed as he saw the object come into view. "Maintain height level, at
cruising speed..."
(Dark Hooves' original aircraft- the Ravenhawk)
(http://imageshack.us/a/img208/9387/wap.png)
Post Merge
The shape was hard to make out amongst the fog. At first, Feisler thought it was a shadow, a trick of the light. As he came closer, though, there was no mistaking it- something large and metallic lay in the water ahead.
"Uh..." Feisler said, unprofessionally, "that's our target? Why isn't it moving?"
(I was thinking on something similar but with wing doing an A on every side, two afterburners a 2 seat cockpit and a slit of tail, for maneuvering an such with many air entries and a little more like a horn, and call it Skyhorner Mk I but that one ITS AWESOME!)
*static* Here Equinox one ready to deploy the short-range EMP, Cap. Feisler, can you give me clearance?
"Deply ECM, target the vehicle."
(By A-style wings, do you mean diamond wings?)
(yeah more like a su - 49 with larger wings)
*static* Here Equinox, ECM off! *does an epic barrel rolls and detach the box on his cockpit* Yeah the barrel was totally uncalled for, but there it goes! lets go with it! *steers down*
"Overseer to aircraft, detecting an intense heat signature in your area! Scramble!"
*static* hay it overseer! you are our eyes! *quickly pulls off from the target place* I will not make same mistake twice! *a burst of air comes out from Yagdra F - 16 pushing him foward at insane speed* YEEEEHAAAA!
As Feisler pulled up, a blast of searing air followed a roar as a plume of fire nearly five hundred feet long shot from the back of the craft below. Instantly it began to pick up speed, accelerating away. As it gained more speed, it began to rise out of the water on hydrofoils, which then retracted as the aircraft achieved ground effect. Feisler had never seen anything like it, and he certainly hadn't expected being in danger from the vehicle's exhaust. But he'd felt the heat and seen the fire; this craft had an engine like no other.
*static* Equinox 1, brought a little toy that might help us... *The F - 16 starts deploying one of the tubes used against them in the previous attack* Cap, just dont ask how I obtained it...this with my speed will surely create a hole in the hull wich we can attack and make some serious damage... I suggest aiming the rear or the "brigde", In the rear might just pulls him off towards the sea, and the brigde, well you can imagine what will happen, Its your call boss! *Yagdra starts getting his "gift" locked*
The craft below turned sharply right, kicking in full afterburner as it accelerated near mach 2. The jets were quickly being outrun.
//sorry have been busy
Raven flight finish the repairs and rolls the planes out of the hangar and start heading to the runway entrance.
DH: Raven 1 to tower, do we have clearance for takeoff?
"Cleared for takeoff, Raven flight."
---
The Mirage's afterburners were at peak power as Feisler descended, trying to catch up with the craft below. If it had been dormant a while ago, it certainly wasn't now. Streams of AA fire rose to meet the pursuing aircraft.
The reach takeoff position on the runway and throttle up quickly gaining speed.
DH: Raven 1 to command, please brief us in flight en route to the combat area.
"Raven Flight, other aircraft are currently intercepting a high-speed craft designed to take down fleets of warships. The craft is headed westbound, recommend you proceed with full afterburner."
DH: Copy command, we will intercept and shoot down the target if possible.
Raven flight takes off and flies towards the combat area at full speed.
DH: Raven 1 to all allied aircraft, we are heading to the combat area and will be there in 15 minutes.
*static* Sir I called for the afterburners so the tube its already there, I will make the C-4 that I planted on the sides, *evil laugts and press the a detonator and a giant explosion goes off* Here Equinox, proceed to bombard the hole Cap!
//what is the enemy craft this time Nimbus?
DH: Entering combat area now. Where is the target?
(Think of the enemy craft as a sleek, flat, black ship that looks kind of like a spaceplane. That's what this is. It flies low to the water to use ground effect to its advantage, and can outrun fighters in this way.)
The craft slowed to a stop, projecting its hydrofoils and turning rapidly around. The aircraft overshot.
"What the-?" Feisler said, "I've never seen something that big pull of a move like that!"
*static* Well... Im starting to think that we are screw... *steers up as fast as he can*
"Overseer to all planes! The craft is vulnerable with its hydrofoils deployed. Those are its weak points. If you can hit them, you can cripple it."
*static* 10-4 Feisler *moves into position and locks all of his missiles on the hydrofoils* Equinox 1, Fire! *all of the missiles fly away blasting the Hydroils but not enought to destroy them* What the-?! They are just rubbled?! *quicly pulls out*
DH: Moving to attack the target.
Raven flight gets behind the enemy craft and closes into gun range. He pulls the trigger firing a stream of bullets at one of the hydrofoils.
"No good, working on a new solution, stand by."
Feisler eyed the craft as it began to spool up its turbines again. "We're going to need an answer quickly, Overseer. We're going to lose our chance, soon."
Then the silo doors on the back of the craft opened, and things got exponentially worse.
Six white smoke trails indicated the launch of several rockets from the craft, which quickly accelerated into the sky.
"Aircraft, Overseer. I confirm the launch of six rod missiles. Be ready for evasive maneuvers."
*static* Will try something Cap... just, stay put and behind me EVERY time. *Yagdra starts flying off towards the missile rods* If the landing before was a bad idea... this will just be worse... Im going to open a path when the missiles divide and throw at us the swarm of tubes... with my plane customized afterburners, after that you will have one chance to missile up the hatches of their silo.... so cap! are you ready?
"New plan- the hydrofoils are only going to be vulnerable from a straight and level shot, which means you'll need to dive to sea level to attack. Form up and combine your attacks."
Feisler heard the instructions and relayed them to the rest of the group. "Here we go, stick together watch your altitude."
Dark Hooves manages to destroy one of the hydro foils and banks hard to avoid the fragments falling off the craft.
DH: Raven 1 to all planes, use your guns to attack the hydro foils. I don't think our missiles will do any good here.
Feisler dove to the water's surface, leveling off and switching to his wing-mounted gun pods. The craft was bearing down on him, but he didn't falter. There was about fifty feet of clearance between it and the water, and he intended to make the most of it. He targeted the hydrofoils with the machine gun pods and opened fire, weakening several as he raced under the aircraft and emerged from behind it, fighting to keep his plane in the air despite the jet wash from the larger craft.
*Static* Good ridance Raven 1 will, but what now cap? the Hydrofoils are gone
"Hang on, Equinox, I think-" Feisler's suspicions were confirmed when several large circles appeared on his radar display. "Rods inbound! get out of the circles!"
Raven flight lights their burners in order to get out of the circles marked on their radars.
*static* why those things are always aiming at me?! *uses the upgraded burners to create a sonic boom and increase the distance between them* Not good enough people! *flyes trought them*
After dodging the shrapnel Dark Hooves positions himself for a shot at the missile launchers and fires a missile. Raven 2 and Raven 3 are covering his six.
*static* Overseer here Equinox one, did the EMC worked? Because I think thay aimed at us pretty well... *keep dogding some wild rods on the air* Makes me wonder if we can keep this up...
The silo doors began to slide open again.
"Overseer here, the craft is crippled. Shoot before it can fire off its missiles!"
Feisler rolled under a barrage of AA fire and armed four air to ground missiles, targeting the missile silos. "Roger, Overseer. Let's finish this!"
*static* You and me both! *flyes towards the silo hatches and starts shooting all of his ammo* My F-16 was asking for some revenge!
The missile looses lock which Dark Hooves locks on again and fires another missile at the launch bay.
DH: Raven 1, fox 2.
The missiles impacted the sea craft, rocking it with fiery explosions that sent shrapnel into the path of the oncoming planes. However, even as the machine keeled slowly over into the depths, four more missiles fired from its hull, streaking skyward.
"Overseer, can you get a track on those?" Feisler asked.
A few moments later, he had a reply. "Return to base immediately. The missiles are inbound for Leren Air Base!"
DH: Roger that Overseer. Raven 1 to all planes, drop your extra tanks and light your burners. We need to get back to base asap.
Raven flight drops the external fuel tanks and starts heading back to base at full speed.
(Countdown to Ace Combat: Infinity- 7 days)
Mission Update
Feisler could see the trails of the missiles' exhaust still hanging in the air, and for the moment, he felt he could still stop this- perhaps somehow he could grab the trails and pull the missiles back to earth like a cowboy lassoing a bull. He quickly dismissed the ludicrous thought- a wild imagination was not helpful in an emergency. He lit his burners, hoping they would reach the base before the missiles did.
Music:
(wild imagination its my job xD ) *static* This day couldnt be getting better and better... *hits the booster buttons* But... Feilser what are we going to do even if we make it in time?... *Yagdra ask with a kinda depressive voice*
Feisler gritted his teeth and plowed on. "We'll... stop them. We'll figure something out."
The coastline was coming into view now, gradually becoming clearer. So far, the missiles were nowhere in sight. "Climb ten thousand feet," Feisler ordered, "we may be able to take the missiles when they come in."
He already knew his idea was futile. The missiles would be traveling at several times the speed of sound straight down- there would be no time to establish a lock. Still, he had to hope. He had to try.
Raven flight reaches 10,000 feet and looks out for the missiles.
"Overseer here, missiles are reentering the atmosphere. Warheads are high-explosives. You have one minute to impact!"
//you know only a TLS can hit those missiles right, so what will happen
Dark Hooves lines up an angle for a gun shot on a missile and fires a stream of bullets into the path of the missile until he runs out of bullets.
DH: Raven 1 to all planes, I have used all my bullets.
*static* ...how about... using or propulsion systems?... we get near them and all together use all of our fuel to make a 1 very very big shockwave?... I know that its higly improbable...but... *looks down to his controls*
DH: Sounds like a plan to me.
The aircraft had not time to react. The missiles descended from above with the speed of avenging angels. Leren Air Base was there one moment, and the next... it was gone. Swallowed by a bright flash of light. Feisler fought his controls as a shockwave ripped through his Phantom, rocking it. As the smoke cleared, nothing remained of Leren but a few smoking shells. More missile trails carved their way through the air overhead, heading farther inland. All at once, the emergency frequency began to pick up calls.
"This is Oldavau Air Base, missile contacts!"
"Scramble fighters!"
"They're gonna hit!"
Feisler pulled his plane level as Overseer called in. "It looks like the Sotoans are conducting a surgical strike on our airfields... proceed west. Branson International Airport is about five minutes away. I'm sorry."
*static, and a cough can be heard from the radio* ....b...bas- No... *a deep breath its heard* Here Equinox 1.... We should get there as soon as we can Feisler...
DH: Bingo fuel, the indicator just came on.
*static* with any luck we will have a hard landing... heh...*hits the control board* H..hay....
DH: Raven 2, Raven 3, climb to 20,000 feet and we'll glide to Branson Intl Airport and land there.
Raven 2: Roger
Raven 3: Wilco
Raven flight uses the rest of their fuel to reach 20,000 feet and proceed with gliding to the airport.
"Branson Tower to the incoming Air Force planes, you are cleared to land, runway three five. Thank goodness you're back safely."
Feisler broke away from the approach. "Raven flight, you have priority for landing."
A familiar plane began to taxi down runway three-six. His coms came up as soon as he could, basking in the sight of friendlys. "Sir, sorry for the absence, but we needed all the help to evac the cities, sir."
"Roger," Feisler replied, "Raven, continue landing. Anyone with enough fuel for another hour, on me."
Post Merge
(Countdown to Ace Combat: Infinity- 6 days)
DH: Roger that Wendigo 1, we'll proceed with the landing.
Raven flight makes the final approach and manually lowers the landing gear.
Feisler checked his armaments- two missiles and nearly full gun ammunition. The missiles were raining down inland, all targeting military facilities. So far, he hadn't seen any aircraft. Maybe this was the Sotoans' plan- demoralize the country and invade before the Veruseans had any time to react.
Post Merge
(Countdown to Ace Combat: Infinity- 5 days)
*static* Anypony wants a drink... I know I want an iced apple juice... *gets near and pulls down the landing gear, after landing Yagdra decided to make his way to the bar*
Raven flight lands which the planes sit on the runway out of fuel.
Dark Hooves and his wingmen exit the planes and walk towards the bar.
DH: You two may join me, just don't drink any hard drinks. I need you sharp for when we go up again.
Raven 2: Yes sir.
Raven 3: Of course Captain.
*Yagdra its sitted alone in a corner watching the TV news while he drinks his applejuice* I knew...this would happen... hay...*takes a deep breath and zips his glass* I should have been a better pilot, end fast with all of this... but NO! you had to make stupid plans, and give stupid ideas and try to be the "Nice pilot with crazy ideas" ....Buck it... give me another! *Yagdra asks for another glass*
Feisler walked into the airport's bar after landing and had a seat. The bartender was serving drinks on the house while trying to pack up whatever valuables he had. The TV was on, and President Erul was addressing the nation.
"My fellow Veruseans, today is a day unlike anything we have ever faced. Our neighbor country, Sotoa, has declared war on us for the sole purpose of expanding their territory and totalitarian regime. As I speak, our forces are being drawn inland. The Sotoans have already scrambled their navy and are taking our coastline. In this time of peril, I urge all of you to remember who we are. We are Verusea. We are the Yuktobanian Continent's sole free nation! We will repel these invaders, and as we always have done, we will prevail!"
An airman came running into the bar and cornered Marcus Feisler.
"Sir, thank Heaven you and the others made it back alive. The remaining members of our command sent me here with your orders. They said for you to get some sleep. Looks like you're sortieing early. They also said once the sortie's complete, you'll land at Sand Island Air Base in Osea for new aircraft.
"Sand Island?" Feisler said, wrinkling his brow, "just what sort of sortie is this?"
The airman handed him an envelope which Feisler took. Poring over its contents, Feisler's eyes grew wider and wider. Finally he wordlessly passed the note on to the other pilots.
(The note reads: Pilots of Windigo, Raven, Equinox, and Final flights- you are to escort President Erul's jet to the Osean coast, where you will then proceed to Sand Island to acquire new aircraft. We are pulling out of Verusea, but a counterstrike operation is already in the planning phase. Good luck, and contact Branson Tower for further details on your orders tomorrow. Your launch time will be 0430.)
Post Merge
(New trailer! Totally had no idea "reaper" was actually an Ace Combat callsign! Anyway, this trailer brought up an interesting point. Recall that the Ulysses asteroid impacts in 1999. Well this rp is set in 1998... Spoiler alert: we may have one heck of a final mission. That's all I'm sayin' for now)
*Looks at Feisler* New orders huh...? *mumbles to hismelf* I better get to scout on any information I can... *gets near Feisler* Humm...Cap, I will go out for a few hours... can you handle it from here?
"Of course," Feisler replied, "get some rest, gentlemen. Tomorrow the fight for our country begins."
*almost leaving the bar* It started even before we realised cap... *leaves*
Mission 03: "Birds of a Feather"Branson International Airport. October 28, 1998. Music:
"Windigo One, cleared for takeoff."
Feisler gunned his throttles, feeling the F-4 leap into the air. He'd only been up for an hour, but the military was doing its best to get whatever assets they had out of the invasion zone as quickly as possible. He pulled into a pattern around the airport, waiting for the others to join him. On the horizon, he could see the wake of several approaching Sotoan ships. This was going to be the closest evacuation in history.
*static* Here Equinox one to Feisler, I made some arragements with some private military contractors so they can help with evacs. I wont be flying yet, you will have to do withouth me for now... Equinox over and out.
"Understood, Equinox. However, be advised my callsign is "windigo." Do the contractors know we'll be meeting them?"
*static* Sorry Windigo, Lets say that I gave them specific instructions... they wont deploy air forces due to the risk of "The behemont" but they will help us from ground if we call for it, however, I`ve told them that the main objective its to "extract and rescue".... They have been very busy since some of the goverment ours included hired them too... but they ensured me that no data nor coordinates will be made public or selled, unfortunatedly that works for our foes as well... Equinox out.
Feisler maintained his flight path, waiting for the rest to form up. Once there, the tower would relay the instructions for meeting up with the president's aircraft.
Post Merge
(Countdown to Ace Combat: Infinity- 4 days)
(Countdown to Ace Combat: Infinity- 3 days. Would you like me to message you all about what I have planned for the story, to help organize this?)
Post Merge
(Countdown to Ace Combat: Infinity- 2 days)
(Since I have little idea about this... not gonna lie Im downloading ace combat 5 xD)
DH: What planes do you have if any? (he asks the ground crew)
The single mechanic looked to Dark Hooves.
"I'm sorry, sir," he said, "we don't even have any airliners left here. You guys were the only military planes to land at this base when the invasion began. I patched up your aircraft from yesterday. They should be good to go."
(So in that case, do you all want to know the storyline I have planned, or would you rather be surprised?)
//surprise me
DH: Thank you very much. (turns to his wingmen) Let's go Raven flight.
Raven 2: Yes sir, let's get them.
Raven 3: Roger.
Raven flight gets in the aircraft and positions themselves at the end of the runway for takeoff.
DH: Raven 1 to tower, are we cleared for takeoff?
"Cleared for takeoff, Raven Flight."
Feisler watched as the Raven aircraft were cleared by the tower, all the while keeping an eye on the ocean. The white "V's" being drawn in the water by the approaching boats' wakes were getting closer. They were running out of time.
Raven flight takes off and flies out to sea to engage the boats.
DH: Raven 2, Raven 3, you are weapons free. Sink any hostile vessels approaching. Make sure you don't target any civilian vessels.
Raven 2: Roger.
Raven 3: Wilco.
Dark Hooves locks on and fires a missile at the lead boat.
DH: Raven 1, fox 2.
"Hang on, Raven," Feisler called, "we've got bigger things to worry about." Turning, he headed inland, "we need to rendezvous with the president in twenty minutes."
DH: Roger that Wendigo. Raven 2, Raven 3, stay here and sink these boats. Wendigo and I will escort Air Force One. Raven 2 you are in command of Raven 3 until I return.
Raven 2: Yes sir, I will not let you down. Raven 3 let's grind these boats into dust.
Raven 3: Roger that Raven 2.
Dark Hooves got with Feisler to escort AF1 while Raven 2 and Raven 3 engaged the boats.
Raven 2: Fox 2, fox 2. (he sinks 2 more boats)
Raven 3: Fox 2. (she sinks another boat)
Tower called the remaining fighters, "Negative, Raven 2 and 3. The military announced intentions to pull back from the coast last night. If you stay to engage the boats, you'll be an ocean away from your squadron."
Post Merge
(Countdown to Ace Combat: Infinity- 1 day.)
*static* Here Equinox 1.... *interference* ... evac *interference* not doing good... *interference* Will try to reach you... *interference* Good luck...
Raven 2: Roger that command, Captain we will be returning to formation.
DH: Roger.
Raven flight forms up and proceeds to rendezvous with AF1.
Ahead, the small Cessna Citation X came into view, bearing the silver and blue presidential color scheme.
"We have you in sight, Air Force aircraft," the pilot called, "you may identify us as 'Trident 1' for the purpose of this mission. Glad you could fly with us today."
"Roger, Trident 1, Mistral called, "it's an honor."
DH: Roger that Trident 1, it is an honor to serve the president and the first family.
Raven flight forms up with AF1.
*static* Sir... did you called for backup? Because Im being followed by strange aircraft... the funny thing is that my instruments say nothing about it... By the way, Im bringin in more sophisticated ECM makers, we are going to need them for this mission... Equinox 1 out.
"Roger, Equinox," Feisler replied, "intel said there would be recon flights over the mainland today. Not much to worry about. Just rendezvous with us at Sand Island when you make it to Osea."
...
Minutes turned into hours as the aircraft sped over the Verusean mainland. Feisler could barely contain his relief when he saw the coastline materialize in front of them. Now all they had to do was make it through international waters to the Osean coast. He relaxed for a moment, but bolted upright when he glanced at his radar. Four blips were approaching.
"Windigo One to all flights," he called, "four unknown aircraft inbound! Descend to the deck and protect Trident 1!"
*Equinox 1 still far away from the location of Trident and the others* Ponyfeathers!... *static* Sir! I have 4 tangos behind me! I think they are going to rendezvous with your attackers! I will try to divert them while you clear the way for Trident 1! *static* Sir!... they *static* behemont! *static* Hurry! *static*
DH: Roger that, engaging hostiles.
Raven flight dives for the deck to intercept the bogeys.
"Well well well, if it isn't Verusea's own little cleanup crew again..."
Feisler froze. The voice over the radio was all too familiar.
"Aethon One to all planes, do not let the president escape. You are authorized to shoot down anything that gets in your way."
"Trident 1," Feisler called, "dive for the deck- Osean waters are only ten minutes away. The Sotoans can't pursue us in there."
"Roger, Windigo," Trident responded. The private jet dipped a wing and cranked downwards into a sharp descent, heading for the waves, which would ideally confuse the enemy jets' tracking radar.
"All planes, full afterburner," Feisler ordered, punching in a distress code on his MFD.
DH: (locks on his AMRAAMs) Raven 1, fox 3, fox 3. (four radar guided missiles streak through the sky towards the enemy planes)
The four aircraft dispensed chaff and flares, immediately diving onto the source of the shot.
"Five minutes to Osean waters," Feisler said through gritted teeth, "punch afterburner and get out of there."
After the missiles got evaded Raven flight turn around and lit the burners.
"Come on, come on..." Feisler was on edge, waiting for an Osean response to his signal. After what seemed like an eternity, he received a call that he felt was the best news he'd heard all day.
"Verusean aircraft, a flight of F-14s is inbound to your position with Phoenix missiles. Remain at your altitude, and welcome to Osea."
"Trident 1, reinforcements inbound," Feisler echoed to the president's aircraft, sighing in relief. "Come on, guys. We're nearly there!"
DH: Looks like the salvo of missiles at least kept them from approaching Trident 1. Raven 2, Raven 3, keep your master arm switch armed and keep your guard up.
Raven 2: Roger.
Raven 3: Wilco.
*static* Sorry for the delay sir... *a customized F - 16 with a black and a red blur paint job its leading the squad* Equinox one we will provide you with backup, I suggest to land and re-arm, this, as always, will be a long day people... Osea Captains break formation and engage the enemys! *turns on the overboost flying towards the enemy planes by passing Raven and Feisler*
Feisler eyed the thin line on his radar indicating the Osean border. Finally, they crossed it. He watched as the Sotoan fighters turned back towards Verusea and cursed.
"You lucked out, Veruseans," he heard the lead aircraft say, "but this is our turf now. Run back to Osea."
Raven flight forms up on AF1.
DH: (opens communication to Aethon Flight) Next time we meet you are going down. (closes communication)
//hello? anypony going to reply?
*the black F-16 separates from the Orsea captains formation and flyes towards Wendigo and Raven then the static from the radio is heard* Calm down Raven... we were lucky that we could at least get Trident 1 to safety... Wendigo your orders?
DH: Awaiting orders Wendigo.
(Sorry, was busy for the past few days)
Mistral spotted the distinct outline of Sand Island ahead.
"We're breaking off here, Trident. Pleasure flying with you."
"And you as well."
Mistral lined up to enter the pattern at Sand Island, listening to the tower.
"Sand Island Tower to Verusean planes, cleared to land."
DH: Roger Sand Island, we are landing now.
(Gonna skip a day here so we can get to the action. Don't forget to head over to the signup thread and update your aircraft list. We're using Tier 2 planes now)
Feisler woke up with a splitting headache to the sound of jets flying over. For a moment, he thought he was back in Verusea, as if nothing had happened. A brief glance at his temporary room told him otherwise. He groggily rolled out of bed and donned his uniform, leaving his room and heading for the dining room of his on-base apartment for coffee.
Cant sleep? *Yagdra was standing near the dinning room main entrance* I have been having nightmares too...
Dark Hooves is in the hangar checking out his squadron's new planes. He looks at the two Rafale Ms and the SU-37 Terminator.
I guess I'll take the Terminator. Thinking out loud.
"Nightmares?" Feisler said, "no, this is when I usually get up. I'm missing my bike though, to be honest. I'd get up every day and go out for an early morning ride." He turned to Yagdra with a faint smile, "but then again- I guess that's some incentive to get our country back, eh?"
Dark Hooves carefully checks the new planes with a fine tooth comb and makes sure they are ready to fly as soon as they are needed.
DH: With my new plane I will take down the enemy aces.
*smiles* You know... Im not into this for "My country" to be honest... I just like to fly... It is a shame that I ended up as a combat pilot... but then again... yes... its an incentive... but Im not entirely sure about my reasons to fight this war...
A tall, gruff looking pilot entered the room, walking up to Feisler and Yagdra and shaking both their hands. "Good morning, pilots. I'm Captain Jack Bartlett. Command tells me you've got a mission lined up today?"
Feisler looked at Yagdra, confused. "Uh... we did?"
"Well, you do now. Come with me," Bartlett said, walking away. Shrugging, Feisler downed the rest of his coffee.
"Guess that means we're launching."
Dark Hooves hears a commotion from another building and goes to check it out which he sees Bartlett and the others.
What's going on?
*laughts while looking Feisler just pouring his coffe into his mouth* So much for a rest huh?
Bartlett nodded to Dark Hooves. "Glad you could make it. We're assembling for a launch in two hours. Our goal is to defend the island of New Henai from Sotoan forces."
Feisler furrowed his brow. "Makes sense. New Henai is Verusea's biggest import and transportation hub. It's small and industrial, and definitely something the 'Sotes will want."
They are going to attack a civilian airport! How can they be so heartless?! Runs off to wake up his wingmen.
*lowers his head* Hes so Feisty... I hope he doesnt get killed for that... and Feisler... what you can tell me about the Aces that I saw when you where escorting the President?
Dark Hooves enters the bunk room and wakes his wingmen and tells them about the mission orders.
Yes sir, we will be in our planes ASAP.
Roger that Captain.
They all get their flight suits on and grab their helmets.
//blue=Raven 2, purple=Raven 3
"The aces? I know nothing about them," Feisler admitted, stepping outside and heading for his RA-5 Vigilante. "I just moved to the coast on orders a few weeks ago. As far as I know, these guys just came out of nowhere. "
"Aces, huh?" Bartlett said, "well, from my experience they're all alike. Egotistical and arrogant. You ever go up against 'em, you three will stand a chance."
Feisler nodded. "I hope so, sir. Now, how are we splitting ourselves up for this mission? I'll take my RA-5 with air to ground ordnance."
Dark Hooves and his wingmen get in their planes that he prepped for takeoff already and start to taxi out of the hangar.
Raven 1 to tower are we cleared for emergency takeoff, we have a civilian airport to protect. He thinks about all of the innocent civilians at the airport. How could someone be so reckless to attack civilians? I won't let them be harmed.
*static* Equinox One ready... lets show them who are the true "Aces" in here...
Tower: "Verusean forces, you have priority access for takeoff. Scramble immediately!"
Feisler felt the rumble ot the Vigilante's twin jets in the rear of the aircraft shaking him to the bone. Though his aircraft was old, it was still one of the fastest attackers out there. He hoped it would serve him well in the next few hours. Beside him, Captain Bartlett fell into formation in an F-14 Tomcat.
"New Henai is thirty minutes south of our position," Bartlett said, "run your weapons checks and get ready!"
Raven flight completes their takeoff and forms up with Feisler and Bartlett.
It is an honor to fly with you Heartbreak 1.
"Don't get mushy on me," Bartlett called back, "and don't expect any autographs when we get back, either. Focus on getting back from this mission."
Feisler rolled his eyes. Typical Osean. Bartlett was only annoying him more every second. He only hoped his flying skills were better than his people skills. He switched his radio over as a transmission sounded from below.
"Osean and Verusean aircraft, this is New Henai Harbor. Thanks for helping us out today."
Thinking. I will protect all the civilians at this airport.
Raven flight breaks off to fly CAP around the airport.
//CAP is "combat air patrol"
(yep)
The RA-5 descended to just above the water level, sweeping the area with its radar. "I've got no contacts so far," Feisler said, "how are you faring?"
Nothing yet, keep your head on a swivel. They could be using stealth aircraft.
A white flash below caught Feisler's eye. Sea spray. He turned his head, focusing his eyes on a boat passing below. It was military, without a doubt, but it was squawking civilian IFF codes. Several more military vessels were inbound as well, all flashing civilian I.D.
"Boats below," he said, "no threat."
Dark Hooves saw the boats and wonder why were military boats squawking civilian IFF codes.
(All part of the plan)
A radio transmission came through from the crafts below.
"New Henai Harbor, this is the seventh peacekeeper fleet from Verusea. We're here to bolster your defenses."
Feisler raised an eyebrow. That explained the civilian IFF codes, but last he'd heard, the seventh was supposed to be ferrying weapons to Osea. Strange that he hadn't been informed of this beforehand...
"Thank goodness you're here, peacekeepers!" harbor control called, "we're preparing a shipment of emergency supplies to Osea for the Verusean refugees. Glad to have you around for support."
"Don't mention it." A single missile trailed up from one of the boats. Feisler did a double take, reconfirming what he was seeing. The missile arced towards the docks and impacted a freighter.
"The seventh fleet has been compromised!" Feisler called, diving to the water level and arming his anti-ship missiles, "watch out for hostiles!"
Raven 2, Raven 3, destroy the hostiles. I will cover you both.
Roger.
Wilco.
Ravens 2 and 3 ready their anti-ship missiles and lock on to the two lead boats.
Equinox 1, will move to shoot... *does a little strafe towards the ships with his missiles ready*
Feisler skimmed over the waves on full afterburner. Phalanx fire was already coming towards them in sheets from the ships, the tracers arcing up into the air like a deadly hail. He armed one anti-ship missile and fired towards a small light attack vessel, tearing through it like rice paper.
"One down," he called, pulling up and circling around for another run.
Raven 2 and Raven 3 lock on to the largest ship and each launch an anti-ship missile at it.
*aims down his missiles toward 2 ships* These are mine... *as he shoots down one of them the other barely mades out from the missile* Feisty... *Equinox finish him with a gun run*
The anti-ship missiles obliterate the targeted ship which starts sinking rapidly.
Flagship sunk moving on to next target.
Roger that.
Equinox 1 here... its a little strange?... I though they will go serious this time... *Shoots down another ship with a barrage of gun fire*
Feisler received another call from the shore.
"We're taking fire! The ships are choking the harbor entrance- we can't leave!"
"We're doing everything we can," Feisler said, flying in low beneath the phalanx fire again. The deadly rain of rounds had already forced his aircraft to take damage. He put an aircraft carrier in his sights and fired off two anti-ship missiles ,destroying it. A few F-4s were able to take off, however.
*Equinox follows Wendigo shooting down some of the F-4 that managed to escape the carrier, still some of them fire flares and dodge his missiles*
Dark Hooves locks on to on of the stragglers and fires a QAAM at it. The bogey attempts to evade, but to no avail and the pilot bails out of his plane right before it is destroyed by the missile. Dark Hooves moves in on the last straggler and locks on.
Meanwhile, Feisler dropped down and made a low pass over the docks, taking out hovercrafts that were approaching the shoreline. "I think we're wearing them down, keep up the pressure!"
Raven 2 and Raven 3 cover Feisler's 6 o'clock having expended their anti-ship missiles.
We have you covered Feisler.
//good time for the enemy to debut their new weapon?
/I can get some shoots for epic moment lol (?) /
//sure, just seeing if it's a good time for the prototype to debut itself
Sir... Im getting some weird specs on the radar... what the hay?! *dodges a barrage of long-range shots* Sir! Im Locked! *one of the wings gets pierced* Darn it! Sir! I can still fly... barely... I got lucky and he didnt got the fuel tank... for milimeters...
The prototype craft enters the combat zone reloading it's swarm launchers. It locks onto the aircraft in the sky over the decimated fleet.
Raven flight avoids the swarm of missiles, but just barely.
Ravens, respond.
Raven 2 here, what was that?!
Raven 3, I am fine.