Post by KamiSama on Nov 1, 2023 4:53:19 GMT
Cherleau, Monarick, Royal Federation Space, Zakar Frontier
Beep beep, beep beep
Marius jerked awake suddenly as his personal terminal started to alarm loudly. He rubbed the sleep out of his eyes and looked at the time. 3:15 am. He picked it up and saw who was calling him at this hour, he felt a pang of fear. He quickly answered and a message began playing.
“Attention all Monarick reservists, this is an automated message alerting you to your immediate activation. Report to your units as soon as possible for immediate tasking.” The modulated voice of an AI said.
Marius began dressing himself and as he walked around his apartment he noticed the space elevator lighting up in a way that he had never seen before. Massive searchlight lit up the sky and it shone like nothing he had ever seen before. It was a bad omen he thought, something must be terribly wrong. The airbase was just under an hour away and when he arrived the car park was mostly filled and a steady stream of people were going inside. As he cleared security at the gate, klaxons began sounding and nearby launch rails ascended from underground. Marius and the other people ducked down as a flight of jets launched the sounds of their engines filling the early morning air. Marius and the others got back up and rushed inside where an officer was ordering an immediate launch of all squadrons. She wasn’t answering any questions and simply kept directing the pilots.
After donning his flight gear he made his way to the hanger where he noticed a group of people standing and talking. It was a handful of regulars talking to the officers. They looked tired and beat up. Some had medics treating minor wounds. He wasn’t interested in catching the ire of the officers like some others had and only listened in passing.
“How many more can we expect?” One of the officers, a Major, asked.
“I don’t know we lost contact when we went into warp, there were at least five other groups retreating the same as us.” The pilot responded.
This just confirmed Marius’s fear, something had gone wrong. The battle in the commande system was not going as planned. Hopefully it was a minor hiccup and everything was under control now. He suddenly found himself at his plane and began climbing into it only to be startled by a woman in the WSO seat.
“Hello? I’m your WSO-” The woman began explaining before she was cut off by a klaxon.
“MR4 Division prepare for take off, T minus three minutes.” The automatic voice said over the PA.
Marius got buckled in as the hanger crew cleared the area around the planes. The plane began to slowly tilt upwards and the hanger doors opened revealing the early morning sky. The sun was beginning to crest the horizon in a bright orange colour palette. It was going to be a beautiful day, one that Marius would miss.
“Three… Two… One… Launch” An automated said.
Marius and his WSO were overcome with an immense G force quickly alleviated by the inertial dampeners on the craft. The broke the sound barrier almost instantly and before long Marius was handed manual control of craft now that they were entering the upper atmosphere. Space as it always was and will be, was pitch black, there was nothing visible except the top of the space elevator that is, even that looked tiny to him.
“This is Advanced Warning and Ariel Control Systems Redline, sound off on your tac names.” The operator had asked.
“MR4-B, Bloodstone.” A man answered
“MR4-C, Loan Shark.” A woman replied
“MR4-D, Mother.” Another woman responded.
Marius had to think for a moment about what his tac name was, it had been months since his last sortie and that was rehearsal for pirate interception.
“MR4-A, Legate and Shooter.” Marius’ WSO responded.
The rest of the squadron listed off their tac names as they made headway deeper into space. Legate had met these people a few times during the monthly meet ups and occasional drills but he could never remember names or faces.
“Alright, link up on my position and prepare for a short range warp jump. MR4 your task is as follows; You are to assist retreating units back to Monarick for recuperation and repair, we have friendlies being intercepted at the system edge. More intel to follow.” AWACS Redline ordered.
The AWACS craft moved into position in the middle of the fighter formation and began charging its warp drive. Unlike those on larger craft this one could only be used for intersystem launches or guiding larger bubbles from alcubierre catapults. Legate watched as translucent light particles engulfed his ship and those around him, then the canopy filtered out the blaring light as the warp bubble formed and they were underway.
“Prepare for immediate combat once we’re there, bubble collision in three… two… one.” Redline said again.
Legate’s display immediately lit up with enemy contacts as the three bubbles collided simultaneously. MR4s, the enemy’s and the fleeing friendlies. He yawed left and pitched up to gain some elevation on the enemy allowing his WSO to pick and choose targets as she needed.
“MR4-A, Fox 3.” Shooter said as a missile detached and flew towards the closest enemy ship.
Several other ships launched missiles, the enemy fighters taken aback by the arrival of combat capable Federation fighters. They quickly turned their attention to MR4 however and after sustaining the losses of the opening volley launched theirs in kind. Three ships were lost immediately as they closed the distance with each other.
“MR4 we need cover, we’re all combat ineffective. It's all we can do to just to keep the engines going.”
“It’s a disaster, command sent us to die in a meat grinder.”
“The Fleet is gone! What are we supposed to do now?”
The regular pilots retreating were in a state of panic, they had been beaten both in mind and body. Even if they had ammunition and power they would be of no help in this battle. Legate turned his attention back to the battle. He jinked to the left avoiding a head-on collision with an enemy fighter only to hit the port thrusters and pitch his craft 180 degrees and power forward.
“Guns, guns, guns!” Shooter said excitedly.
The low thrumming of the particle cannon filled the cockpit and the hostile craft broke apart. The two squadrons were now engaged in a proper dogfight, pilot to pilot. He manoeuvred again pitching only 90 degrees and aimed for another craft pursuing MR4-B.
“Good tone, MR4 Fox 3.” Another missile detached
The enemy craft struck centre mass and soundlessly exploded in the vacuum of space. It was only a few minutes more of manoeuvres and the rest of the hostiles had been destroyed. Twelve of theirs for four of his own, Legate didn’t like that exchange rate at all but they were only reservists against regular military.
“Splash all bandits, Gemstone squadron, you are clear to jump to Monarick.” Redline ordered the other squadron.
“Redline what the hell is going on?” Loan Shark demanded.
“It’s all gone wrong, data from gemstone shows that the Honfleur, Levis and Commande Fleets are gone and the rest of the Navy is fighting a retreat to the systems edge.” Redline replied.
“Why didn’t they just use the superweapon! I thought they built that thing to stop this sort of situation from happening!.” Bloodstone shouted.
“MR4 form back up on me, we have another group of friendlies to save. This is a big one.” Redline ignored the protests of the squadron.
Once again the squadron was engulfed in translucent light and sent forward at FTL speeds. It was slightly nauseating and overall unpleasant without all the dampeners found in larger ships, but legate powered through it. He ran a quick scan of his ship and took inventory of fuel and weapons; They had twenty missiles left and had hours of flight time left as well as plenty of battery power for the particle cannon.
“Engaging in three… two… one…” Redline said as the bubble burst yet again.
As they engaged the enemy this time however they were not met with a group of fighters but an entire carrier; the VMFR Dawns Early Light. It was a wreck, flames spewed from several of the hangers as well as the engines, atmosphere leaks were prevalent all across the hull as were extensive scars from battle damage both new and old. MR4s opponents this time was not just fighters but also bombers and a Frigate. They were outnumbered and outgunned. They didn’t have the weapons to do any meaningful damage to the frigate let alone take on the two flights enemy fighters. Almost immediately two more of MR4s craft were destroyed. It was now four against twenty. The remaining craft engaged into close quarters dogfighting to avoid getting ripped apart by missile launches.
“Redline… We could use some help here! We need reinforcements.” Mother shouted.
“Hold on a few moments more, we’ve got MR1, MR2 and MR8 moving in.” Redline responded.
“This is the Carrier Dawns Early Light to Federation reservists, we appreciate the help but we’re in no position to assist, we’re running back up power and the engines are about to cook off.” The liaison from the Carrier spoke calmly.
“Acknowledged Dawn, reinforcements are incoming.” Redline responded to them.
THe G forces were starting to catch up the Legate as he flew around avoiding enemy attack runs. He couldn’t keep this up forever, he got into position behind one of the enemy fighters who were tailing MR4-B and blew them away with the particle cannon. It was then that something just clicked in his mind, like a pin drop and the sudden realisation of what was going on around him. Suddenly he vectored 90 degrees and took out another fighter with his particle cannons and then a third breaking out of the dog fight. Vectoring again he lined the craft up at a group of three fighters approaching him head on.
“Good tone on three targets, Fox 3, Fox 3, Fox 3.” Shooter said plainly.
Vectoring again Legate moved back into the dog fight to assist his squadron mates before the enemy could retaliate with their own missile barrage. The Flight of three was taken out in one swift impact as the missiles connected with their targets. In one fell swoop he used his cannon to stave off attacks for both MR-C and MR-B again.
“Christ above, look at him go.” Bloodstone remarked
“Incoming reinforcements!” Redline shouted.
Several warp bubbles erupted and Federation reinforcements poured into the battle. Two Flights of fighters and a Flight of bombers. The fighters engaged the remaining enemy fighters as well as the bombers harassing the Dawn while the Federations own bombers lined up an attack run on the Frigate.
“Confirmed IFF on bandits, Gui’dina Republic.” Redline said.
“I didn’t know they had beef with us?” Loan Shark commented.
“They’re in CONA the same as the BULO it would make sense for them to hit us while we can’t fight back.” Mother interjected.
“I’ve got no more incoming FTL signatures, this is it.” Redline replied.
“That's it there’s barely anyone left!” Bloodstone remarked.
“We’re lucky there’s this many left, Data from the Dawn confirms Gemstone Squadrons data. Over half the Navy has been destroyed and what’s left is fighting towards the system's edge. Merveilleuse has also been authorised, the battle will be over very soon.” Redline said angrily.
“MR4, mop up the stragglers.” Redline continued regaining his composure.
With the added reinforcements and Legates' new found skill in his fighter the remaining enemies were quickly dispatched. The remnants of the three fighter groups formed around the bombers as they lined up and fired a salvo of short range Higgs Guns at the Gui’Dina Frigate. Striking its centre mass the vessel snapped in half under its own thrust as the mid section simply disappeared after the shots. Cries of celebration followed at the destruction of the ship. The Federation forces gathered around the Dawn and made one last short range jump back to Monarick.
Rescue ships immediately made way for the Dawn spraying foam to extinguish fires and sealant to contain the atmosphere leaks as dozens of medical dropships landed in one of the few remaining operational hangers. The retreating groups of fighters were taken to the airbases on the surface. MR4 and the other Reserve Squadrons made their way back to base only to be greeted with an overfilled Airfield. They had to leave their planes on the side of the runway wingtip to wingtip with the other planes. They gathered in the muster room for a debriefing where Redline came to the front.
“Alright listen up!” Redline shouted, getting the attention of the room.
“The reports are true, The Federation has been beaten at Commande and the planet has suffered catastrophic damage when the Silver Ring was destroyed by BULO Forces. The planets outlying Commande have also been devastated by nuclear bombardment and invasion. But that’s not our issue.” He paused as the front display activated showing a long range sensor reading.
“The Gui’Dina Republic has taken this opportunity to launch an assault against the Federation. What we fought today was supporting elements to the BULO incursion. We estimate that their main force will be targeting Monarick within a week.” Redline paused as the room erupted into murmurs.
“Needless to say you’re all going to stay activated until this crisis is over. Federation command is in shambles at the moment and no one knows who’s in charge so Reinforcements are dubious. We’re on our own. You’re all dismissed, assignments will come within the hour.” Redline finished.
Over the next week the rest of the reserve forces were called across Monarick in preparation for the coming invasion. A little a quarter million reservists mobilised across the planet concentrating around the capital of Cherleau. While the ground forces organised the Aerospace forces were on presence patrol and interceptions. Half a dozen times the Gui’Dina attempted to launch raids into the system only to be met with strike group interceptions. Gui’Dina D-day had arrived nevertheless and now the Aerospace force was restricted to atmospheric operations. MR4 Had gathered into the briefing room with the other pilots for their brief about the situation, Once again Redline took the stage.
“Alright, the day has come, D-Day, we’ve done as much preparation as we can and as we speak the Dina’s are preparing to land. What orbital defences were in place were destroyed at their leisure; they now have full orbital superiority. The space elevator however remains intact.” Redline explained as the screen played out several simulations of what had happened so far.
“FIB has intercepted a message from the Dina’s, their main aim here is to take the planet intact as possible to use it as a staging ground for further CONA engagements into Federation Space. Hence why they haven’t targeted the area with mass orbital bombardment.” Redline continued.
“We’ve identified their main LZ some 1000 KM from the capital, well out of the range of the Anti-Orbital Fortress.”
“Ground forces have already fortified the area as it was one of several expected LZs but they won’t hold forever against the Dina’s might. Your assignment today is to provide support for the ground forces and cover their eventual retreat. Reinforcements are weeks away as the Navy refits and repairs around Honfleur. The Dawns Early Light was still under repairs when it escaped Commande and had no complement aboard, it’s docked at the top of the space elevator undergoing repairs. It will only be able to provide E-War support.” Redline stated as the display showed the mission area.
“To cut it short, we won’t be able to stop this invasion. We can only make sure the Dina’s pay the butcher's bill for invading. Get to your planes.” Redline finished the briefing.
Now over the mission area MR4 could see what they were in for. Red hot clouds formed in the sky as a planetary assault carrier broke through into the atmosphere. The first of the heavy landers were launched once it had locked itself into position, followed shortly by escort fighters.
“MR4 Engage. Watch your altitude or you’ll be shot down in an instant by the fleet.” Redline ordered.
Legate, Bloodstone, Mother and Loan Shark all climbed in altitude to meet the oncoming threat. This wasn’t space so altitude advantage was a constant worry especially with the enemy coming in from orbit at a steady rate. They met the first transport group and its escorts at about 40,000 ft. The two escorting fighters were easily distracted by Loan shark and Bloodstone as Mother and Legate destroyed the transports. Men and machines began falling from the sky. It was a successful first engagement for the squadron.
“Alright highlighting radar contacts on your HUDs now.” Redline said plainly.
Suddenly the sky was alight with dozens upon dozens of aircraft, more than what they and the remaining reserve squadrons could handle. The realisation had hit them they they really couldn’t stop this invasion but there were doubts they could make them pay for it either.
“They’re in range opening fire. All Air elements be aware of AA fire. We don’t want to hit you fly boys.” A ground force commander said over the shared comm net.
Towards the ground the area lit up with particle cannon fire as Gui’dina aircraft entered effective range. MR4 descended to get more transports and fighters who had slipped past the initial line of contact. It was open season for a time as they moved from one group to the next and pausing their hunt to offer some ground support for the now retreating ground forces. After about thirty minutes the assault carrier began to power up engines and move up into high orbit, only for another one to take its place soon after.
“Reporting enemy ship crossing the line, requesting a fire mission.” A voice had said over the comms.
“Acknowledgement of enemy position, fire mission request is a go.” A second voice had said.
“ALCON be advised of Fortress firing, do not stare at the beam. Further updates will come.” The first voice ordered.
“MR4 continue as planned, you're shielded from the light.” Redline said.
After a matter of moments and a small engagement suddenly the sun seemed dim in comparison to the luminescent beam of light coming from the Anti-Orbital Fortress. Up above was a series of explosions in low orbit that could only be the target of the weapon.
“Good hit, calculating crash site.” One of the voices from before said.
Suddenly above the assault carrier that had not long positioned itself above the battle started to move erratically up and out of the atmosphere. Above it the formation of red hot clouds of smoke and debris formed as the wreckage made its planetfall.
“ALCON, sending telemetry of crash site location.” The voice once again said.
“Sixth Division orders are to retreat, get out of the AO!.” The ground force commander ordered.
“MR4, mission parameters have changed; cover ground forces as they retreat that wreck is going to hit the rear of the frontlines in less than thirty minutes.” Redline ordered.
“They’re not all gonna make it are they?” Mother asked sincerely.
“No… but we can give them a chance.” Redline assured her.
Legate wasted no time in descending to support ground forces. Already Gui’dina armour was rolling onto the planet and wreaking havoc among the retreating reserve units, CAS was also laying waste to the backline cutting off avenues of retreat. The Gui’Dina forces had soundly won already and had maintained a cohesive defensive perimeter where more landers arrived safely from the impact site. It was nearly unassailable now that they deployed an extensive AA network. Legate was getting warnings on his HUD as he approached it. He instead opted to go for the CAS planes, they were no match for the dedicated fighters of MR4.
“Legate, Fox 2, Fox 2.” Shooter said as she fired the multi lock missiles.
Two of the CAS planes went tumbling into the ground. Mother and Loan Shark reported similar success in downing more CAS planes.
“You have our thanks MR4! You saved my boys today and I won’t forget that.” The ground force commander said cheerfully.
“MR4… RTB. We’re out of time and enemy air presence is steadily increasing.” Redline ordered.
Unlike the ground forces the Air forces made an organised retreat back towards their air base while the ground forces scattered to the four winds in an effort to avoid both the invaders and the starship crashing from orbit. Just before they crested the horizon and lost sight of the battlefield MR4 saw the incoming wreck hit the ground. Various thrusters, air brakes and engines were alight in an effort to stop the ship from making a cataclysmic impact on the planet and instead it was like a crash landing. Although once the dust cleared there wouldn’t be much of a ship left.
For now however Gui’Dina had a solid foothold on the planet and the Federation had no means to repel them.
Beep beep, beep beep
Marius jerked awake suddenly as his personal terminal started to alarm loudly. He rubbed the sleep out of his eyes and looked at the time. 3:15 am. He picked it up and saw who was calling him at this hour, he felt a pang of fear. He quickly answered and a message began playing.
“Attention all Monarick reservists, this is an automated message alerting you to your immediate activation. Report to your units as soon as possible for immediate tasking.” The modulated voice of an AI said.
Marius began dressing himself and as he walked around his apartment he noticed the space elevator lighting up in a way that he had never seen before. Massive searchlight lit up the sky and it shone like nothing he had ever seen before. It was a bad omen he thought, something must be terribly wrong. The airbase was just under an hour away and when he arrived the car park was mostly filled and a steady stream of people were going inside. As he cleared security at the gate, klaxons began sounding and nearby launch rails ascended from underground. Marius and the other people ducked down as a flight of jets launched the sounds of their engines filling the early morning air. Marius and the others got back up and rushed inside where an officer was ordering an immediate launch of all squadrons. She wasn’t answering any questions and simply kept directing the pilots.
After donning his flight gear he made his way to the hanger where he noticed a group of people standing and talking. It was a handful of regulars talking to the officers. They looked tired and beat up. Some had medics treating minor wounds. He wasn’t interested in catching the ire of the officers like some others had and only listened in passing.
“How many more can we expect?” One of the officers, a Major, asked.
“I don’t know we lost contact when we went into warp, there were at least five other groups retreating the same as us.” The pilot responded.
This just confirmed Marius’s fear, something had gone wrong. The battle in the commande system was not going as planned. Hopefully it was a minor hiccup and everything was under control now. He suddenly found himself at his plane and began climbing into it only to be startled by a woman in the WSO seat.
“Hello? I’m your WSO-” The woman began explaining before she was cut off by a klaxon.
“MR4 Division prepare for take off, T minus three minutes.” The automatic voice said over the PA.
Marius got buckled in as the hanger crew cleared the area around the planes. The plane began to slowly tilt upwards and the hanger doors opened revealing the early morning sky. The sun was beginning to crest the horizon in a bright orange colour palette. It was going to be a beautiful day, one that Marius would miss.
“Three… Two… One… Launch” An automated said.
Marius and his WSO were overcome with an immense G force quickly alleviated by the inertial dampeners on the craft. The broke the sound barrier almost instantly and before long Marius was handed manual control of craft now that they were entering the upper atmosphere. Space as it always was and will be, was pitch black, there was nothing visible except the top of the space elevator that is, even that looked tiny to him.
“This is Advanced Warning and Ariel Control Systems Redline, sound off on your tac names.” The operator had asked.
“MR4-B, Bloodstone.” A man answered
“MR4-C, Loan Shark.” A woman replied
“MR4-D, Mother.” Another woman responded.
Marius had to think for a moment about what his tac name was, it had been months since his last sortie and that was rehearsal for pirate interception.
“MR4-A, Legate and Shooter.” Marius’ WSO responded.
The rest of the squadron listed off their tac names as they made headway deeper into space. Legate had met these people a few times during the monthly meet ups and occasional drills but he could never remember names or faces.
“Alright, link up on my position and prepare for a short range warp jump. MR4 your task is as follows; You are to assist retreating units back to Monarick for recuperation and repair, we have friendlies being intercepted at the system edge. More intel to follow.” AWACS Redline ordered.
The AWACS craft moved into position in the middle of the fighter formation and began charging its warp drive. Unlike those on larger craft this one could only be used for intersystem launches or guiding larger bubbles from alcubierre catapults. Legate watched as translucent light particles engulfed his ship and those around him, then the canopy filtered out the blaring light as the warp bubble formed and they were underway.
“Prepare for immediate combat once we’re there, bubble collision in three… two… one.” Redline said again.
Legate’s display immediately lit up with enemy contacts as the three bubbles collided simultaneously. MR4s, the enemy’s and the fleeing friendlies. He yawed left and pitched up to gain some elevation on the enemy allowing his WSO to pick and choose targets as she needed.
“MR4-A, Fox 3.” Shooter said as a missile detached and flew towards the closest enemy ship.
Several other ships launched missiles, the enemy fighters taken aback by the arrival of combat capable Federation fighters. They quickly turned their attention to MR4 however and after sustaining the losses of the opening volley launched theirs in kind. Three ships were lost immediately as they closed the distance with each other.
“MR4 we need cover, we’re all combat ineffective. It's all we can do to just to keep the engines going.”
“It’s a disaster, command sent us to die in a meat grinder.”
“The Fleet is gone! What are we supposed to do now?”
The regular pilots retreating were in a state of panic, they had been beaten both in mind and body. Even if they had ammunition and power they would be of no help in this battle. Legate turned his attention back to the battle. He jinked to the left avoiding a head-on collision with an enemy fighter only to hit the port thrusters and pitch his craft 180 degrees and power forward.
“Guns, guns, guns!” Shooter said excitedly.
The low thrumming of the particle cannon filled the cockpit and the hostile craft broke apart. The two squadrons were now engaged in a proper dogfight, pilot to pilot. He manoeuvred again pitching only 90 degrees and aimed for another craft pursuing MR4-B.
“Good tone, MR4 Fox 3.” Another missile detached
The enemy craft struck centre mass and soundlessly exploded in the vacuum of space. It was only a few minutes more of manoeuvres and the rest of the hostiles had been destroyed. Twelve of theirs for four of his own, Legate didn’t like that exchange rate at all but they were only reservists against regular military.
“Splash all bandits, Gemstone squadron, you are clear to jump to Monarick.” Redline ordered the other squadron.
“Redline what the hell is going on?” Loan Shark demanded.
“It’s all gone wrong, data from gemstone shows that the Honfleur, Levis and Commande Fleets are gone and the rest of the Navy is fighting a retreat to the systems edge.” Redline replied.
“Why didn’t they just use the superweapon! I thought they built that thing to stop this sort of situation from happening!.” Bloodstone shouted.
“MR4 form back up on me, we have another group of friendlies to save. This is a big one.” Redline ignored the protests of the squadron.
Once again the squadron was engulfed in translucent light and sent forward at FTL speeds. It was slightly nauseating and overall unpleasant without all the dampeners found in larger ships, but legate powered through it. He ran a quick scan of his ship and took inventory of fuel and weapons; They had twenty missiles left and had hours of flight time left as well as plenty of battery power for the particle cannon.
“Engaging in three… two… one…” Redline said as the bubble burst yet again.
As they engaged the enemy this time however they were not met with a group of fighters but an entire carrier; the VMFR Dawns Early Light. It was a wreck, flames spewed from several of the hangers as well as the engines, atmosphere leaks were prevalent all across the hull as were extensive scars from battle damage both new and old. MR4s opponents this time was not just fighters but also bombers and a Frigate. They were outnumbered and outgunned. They didn’t have the weapons to do any meaningful damage to the frigate let alone take on the two flights enemy fighters. Almost immediately two more of MR4s craft were destroyed. It was now four against twenty. The remaining craft engaged into close quarters dogfighting to avoid getting ripped apart by missile launches.
“Redline… We could use some help here! We need reinforcements.” Mother shouted.
“Hold on a few moments more, we’ve got MR1, MR2 and MR8 moving in.” Redline responded.
“This is the Carrier Dawns Early Light to Federation reservists, we appreciate the help but we’re in no position to assist, we’re running back up power and the engines are about to cook off.” The liaison from the Carrier spoke calmly.
“Acknowledged Dawn, reinforcements are incoming.” Redline responded to them.
THe G forces were starting to catch up the Legate as he flew around avoiding enemy attack runs. He couldn’t keep this up forever, he got into position behind one of the enemy fighters who were tailing MR4-B and blew them away with the particle cannon. It was then that something just clicked in his mind, like a pin drop and the sudden realisation of what was going on around him. Suddenly he vectored 90 degrees and took out another fighter with his particle cannons and then a third breaking out of the dog fight. Vectoring again he lined the craft up at a group of three fighters approaching him head on.
“Good tone on three targets, Fox 3, Fox 3, Fox 3.” Shooter said plainly.
Vectoring again Legate moved back into the dog fight to assist his squadron mates before the enemy could retaliate with their own missile barrage. The Flight of three was taken out in one swift impact as the missiles connected with their targets. In one fell swoop he used his cannon to stave off attacks for both MR-C and MR-B again.
“Christ above, look at him go.” Bloodstone remarked
“Incoming reinforcements!” Redline shouted.
Several warp bubbles erupted and Federation reinforcements poured into the battle. Two Flights of fighters and a Flight of bombers. The fighters engaged the remaining enemy fighters as well as the bombers harassing the Dawn while the Federations own bombers lined up an attack run on the Frigate.
“Confirmed IFF on bandits, Gui’dina Republic.” Redline said.
“I didn’t know they had beef with us?” Loan Shark commented.
“They’re in CONA the same as the BULO it would make sense for them to hit us while we can’t fight back.” Mother interjected.
“I’ve got no more incoming FTL signatures, this is it.” Redline replied.
“That's it there’s barely anyone left!” Bloodstone remarked.
“We’re lucky there’s this many left, Data from the Dawn confirms Gemstone Squadrons data. Over half the Navy has been destroyed and what’s left is fighting towards the system's edge. Merveilleuse has also been authorised, the battle will be over very soon.” Redline said angrily.
“MR4, mop up the stragglers.” Redline continued regaining his composure.
With the added reinforcements and Legates' new found skill in his fighter the remaining enemies were quickly dispatched. The remnants of the three fighter groups formed around the bombers as they lined up and fired a salvo of short range Higgs Guns at the Gui’Dina Frigate. Striking its centre mass the vessel snapped in half under its own thrust as the mid section simply disappeared after the shots. Cries of celebration followed at the destruction of the ship. The Federation forces gathered around the Dawn and made one last short range jump back to Monarick.
Rescue ships immediately made way for the Dawn spraying foam to extinguish fires and sealant to contain the atmosphere leaks as dozens of medical dropships landed in one of the few remaining operational hangers. The retreating groups of fighters were taken to the airbases on the surface. MR4 and the other Reserve Squadrons made their way back to base only to be greeted with an overfilled Airfield. They had to leave their planes on the side of the runway wingtip to wingtip with the other planes. They gathered in the muster room for a debriefing where Redline came to the front.
“Alright listen up!” Redline shouted, getting the attention of the room.
“The reports are true, The Federation has been beaten at Commande and the planet has suffered catastrophic damage when the Silver Ring was destroyed by BULO Forces. The planets outlying Commande have also been devastated by nuclear bombardment and invasion. But that’s not our issue.” He paused as the front display activated showing a long range sensor reading.
“The Gui’Dina Republic has taken this opportunity to launch an assault against the Federation. What we fought today was supporting elements to the BULO incursion. We estimate that their main force will be targeting Monarick within a week.” Redline paused as the room erupted into murmurs.
“Needless to say you’re all going to stay activated until this crisis is over. Federation command is in shambles at the moment and no one knows who’s in charge so Reinforcements are dubious. We’re on our own. You’re all dismissed, assignments will come within the hour.” Redline finished.
Over the next week the rest of the reserve forces were called across Monarick in preparation for the coming invasion. A little a quarter million reservists mobilised across the planet concentrating around the capital of Cherleau. While the ground forces organised the Aerospace forces were on presence patrol and interceptions. Half a dozen times the Gui’Dina attempted to launch raids into the system only to be met with strike group interceptions. Gui’Dina D-day had arrived nevertheless and now the Aerospace force was restricted to atmospheric operations. MR4 Had gathered into the briefing room with the other pilots for their brief about the situation, Once again Redline took the stage.
“Alright, the day has come, D-Day, we’ve done as much preparation as we can and as we speak the Dina’s are preparing to land. What orbital defences were in place were destroyed at their leisure; they now have full orbital superiority. The space elevator however remains intact.” Redline explained as the screen played out several simulations of what had happened so far.
“FIB has intercepted a message from the Dina’s, their main aim here is to take the planet intact as possible to use it as a staging ground for further CONA engagements into Federation Space. Hence why they haven’t targeted the area with mass orbital bombardment.” Redline continued.
“We’ve identified their main LZ some 1000 KM from the capital, well out of the range of the Anti-Orbital Fortress.”
“Ground forces have already fortified the area as it was one of several expected LZs but they won’t hold forever against the Dina’s might. Your assignment today is to provide support for the ground forces and cover their eventual retreat. Reinforcements are weeks away as the Navy refits and repairs around Honfleur. The Dawns Early Light was still under repairs when it escaped Commande and had no complement aboard, it’s docked at the top of the space elevator undergoing repairs. It will only be able to provide E-War support.” Redline stated as the display showed the mission area.
“To cut it short, we won’t be able to stop this invasion. We can only make sure the Dina’s pay the butcher's bill for invading. Get to your planes.” Redline finished the briefing.
Now over the mission area MR4 could see what they were in for. Red hot clouds formed in the sky as a planetary assault carrier broke through into the atmosphere. The first of the heavy landers were launched once it had locked itself into position, followed shortly by escort fighters.
“MR4 Engage. Watch your altitude or you’ll be shot down in an instant by the fleet.” Redline ordered.
Legate, Bloodstone, Mother and Loan Shark all climbed in altitude to meet the oncoming threat. This wasn’t space so altitude advantage was a constant worry especially with the enemy coming in from orbit at a steady rate. They met the first transport group and its escorts at about 40,000 ft. The two escorting fighters were easily distracted by Loan shark and Bloodstone as Mother and Legate destroyed the transports. Men and machines began falling from the sky. It was a successful first engagement for the squadron.
“Alright highlighting radar contacts on your HUDs now.” Redline said plainly.
Suddenly the sky was alight with dozens upon dozens of aircraft, more than what they and the remaining reserve squadrons could handle. The realisation had hit them they they really couldn’t stop this invasion but there were doubts they could make them pay for it either.
“They’re in range opening fire. All Air elements be aware of AA fire. We don’t want to hit you fly boys.” A ground force commander said over the shared comm net.
Towards the ground the area lit up with particle cannon fire as Gui’dina aircraft entered effective range. MR4 descended to get more transports and fighters who had slipped past the initial line of contact. It was open season for a time as they moved from one group to the next and pausing their hunt to offer some ground support for the now retreating ground forces. After about thirty minutes the assault carrier began to power up engines and move up into high orbit, only for another one to take its place soon after.
“Reporting enemy ship crossing the line, requesting a fire mission.” A voice had said over the comms.
“Acknowledgement of enemy position, fire mission request is a go.” A second voice had said.
“ALCON be advised of Fortress firing, do not stare at the beam. Further updates will come.” The first voice ordered.
“MR4 continue as planned, you're shielded from the light.” Redline said.
After a matter of moments and a small engagement suddenly the sun seemed dim in comparison to the luminescent beam of light coming from the Anti-Orbital Fortress. Up above was a series of explosions in low orbit that could only be the target of the weapon.
“Good hit, calculating crash site.” One of the voices from before said.
Suddenly above the assault carrier that had not long positioned itself above the battle started to move erratically up and out of the atmosphere. Above it the formation of red hot clouds of smoke and debris formed as the wreckage made its planetfall.
“ALCON, sending telemetry of crash site location.” The voice once again said.
“Sixth Division orders are to retreat, get out of the AO!.” The ground force commander ordered.
“MR4, mission parameters have changed; cover ground forces as they retreat that wreck is going to hit the rear of the frontlines in less than thirty minutes.” Redline ordered.
“They’re not all gonna make it are they?” Mother asked sincerely.
“No… but we can give them a chance.” Redline assured her.
Legate wasted no time in descending to support ground forces. Already Gui’dina armour was rolling onto the planet and wreaking havoc among the retreating reserve units, CAS was also laying waste to the backline cutting off avenues of retreat. The Gui’Dina forces had soundly won already and had maintained a cohesive defensive perimeter where more landers arrived safely from the impact site. It was nearly unassailable now that they deployed an extensive AA network. Legate was getting warnings on his HUD as he approached it. He instead opted to go for the CAS planes, they were no match for the dedicated fighters of MR4.
“Legate, Fox 2, Fox 2.” Shooter said as she fired the multi lock missiles.
Two of the CAS planes went tumbling into the ground. Mother and Loan Shark reported similar success in downing more CAS planes.
“You have our thanks MR4! You saved my boys today and I won’t forget that.” The ground force commander said cheerfully.
“MR4… RTB. We’re out of time and enemy air presence is steadily increasing.” Redline ordered.
Unlike the ground forces the Air forces made an organised retreat back towards their air base while the ground forces scattered to the four winds in an effort to avoid both the invaders and the starship crashing from orbit. Just before they crested the horizon and lost sight of the battlefield MR4 saw the incoming wreck hit the ground. Various thrusters, air brakes and engines were alight in an effort to stop the ship from making a cataclysmic impact on the planet and instead it was like a crash landing. Although once the dust cleared there wouldn’t be much of a ship left.
For now however Gui’Dina had a solid foothold on the planet and the Federation had no means to repel them.