Post by KamiSama on Nov 27, 2023 4:01:33 GMT
Nouveau Adana, Adalouse, Federation Space, Zakar Frontier
1 week before Monarick Invasion
“We’ve done what we can, she just needs time now.” One of the Doctors said taking off their gloves.
Diabella looked around the room, her vision finally clearing, the bright lights of the hospital dazed her as they rushed her to a triage room. Hooked into her was a series of IV drips and a blood transfusion. Everything hurt, was all she could think, But at least she was alive and safe. She slowly and painfully sat herself up on the bed and took in her surroundings. The ringing in her ears began to subside and she could hear the chaos of the hospital. Doctors and nurses scrambled to triage the influx of patients from Commande. The influx of wounded from recovered ships and the cataclysmic destruction of the Silver Ring seemed to be unending. What Diabella didn’t see was that those in the hospital had already been sorted into those that could be helped and those that were terminal. Although medical technology could save these people it was a lengthy process and the hospital was overcrowded as it was.
“Hey… you, What’s your name and rank?” Diabella asked the guard just outside the room.
The guard looked confused for a moment before moving into the room in an orderly fashion. He saluted sternly before standing at ease.
“Caporal Alain Danton, Milady. Assigned to guard duty.” Danton said plainly.
“Danton, I need a secure terminal or a comm line. I need to find out what's going on.” She struggled to say.
“We lost Milady!” Danton said plainly.
“We… lost?” Diabella asked, confused by what the man had just said.
“It’s all over the news Milady, The silver ring, two thirds of the fleet taken out of action and Commande rendered an environmental nightmare.” Danton continued.
Diabella sat dumbfounded for a moment as she processed everything the Caporal was saying to her. She missed out on a lot after her ship was destroyed. Rhongomyniad, her beloved ship which had seen her through the opening battle of the Third Great Galactic war all the way through to the Second Zen war. Moving on she turned her attention to the problem at hand. No doubt every command centre across the Federation was calling for orders and with HICOM out of action they’d be arguing against themselves on what to do. She cleared her throat and tried to look as stoic as she could given her condition.
“Victory or no, we need organisation in such a time and I don’t have an office to go to at the moment do I Caporal. Make haste, the longer we wait the more lives are at risk from the inaction of the military.” She commanded
Within the hour the Danton had returned with a small technical crew who set up a terminal on the hospital table and slid it in front of Diabella. The last thing they placed was a small holographic projector which once powered displayed a Trireme style ship. The techs did a thorough scan of the room for any listening devices, saluted and left Diabella alone.
“Despite my inability to display emotions I am glad you aren’t dead Milady.” Argo’s synthetic voice rang out.
“Thank you Argo, can I have that sitrep now please.” She asked politely.
“Fleet group Rhongomyniad is at 7% combat effectiveness and currently docked at Honfleur, The Carrier Dawns Early Light was under repairs when it escaped and jumped to Monarick. It is currently under heavy attack. Fleet Group Normandie is only at 22% Combat effectiveness and Admiral Tacitus is currently trying to reorganise it by absorbing the devastated Fleet Groups Maginot and High Seas at Nouveau Lyon.” Argo explained as he provided lists of ships and personnel casualties.
“Fleet Groups Regno, Ganymede and Galaxy have been rendered combat ineffective with only a dozen combat ships heavily damaged between the two of them. They are with Fleet group Rhongomyniad at Honfleur. Military casualties are roughly 400 Million and growing, the overwhelming majority of these being deaths. We don’t have an estimate on civilian casualties at this time but accounting for how many got off world its 2.3 Billion give or take a few hundred million.” The AI continued.
“How about some good news, who do we have left?” Diabella requested.
“Fleet Group Olympus Mons is still at full combat effectiveness due to their defensive duties of Zentheran Space and the Home Fleet is too but they are scattered conducting counter attacks against the Gui’Dina Republic who are currently using hit and run measures against retreating forces. The Duchess has begun mobilising reserve units across the Federation to bolster system defenders.”
“Gui’Dina Republic? The opposite of the Gui’Dina State which we send weapons too? Do they have an official line about this?” Diabella said with rising anger.
“None so far but all three Gui’Dina Polities are mobilising their forces. Estimates have a massive Gui’Dina invasion at Monarick occurring within a week.” The AI continued with his monotone voice.
“What’s Marcus and Tacitus doing? And where’s Jeanne and Leonello?” She said struggling to keep her emotions in check.
“Admiral Marcus is standing by for your order, he’s refusing to listen to anyone else. Admiral Tacitus is trying to re-establish the chain of command to little or no avail. Admiral Jeanne is residing at Honfleur overseeing the repair efforts of whatever ships made it. General Leonello is currently overseeing the last of the evacuation efforts from commande.”
“I want to give a Federation wide order.” Diabella said sternly.
“Raise alert status to DEFCON One, continue calling in the reserve forces to aid in the defence of the Federation. Tell Marcus to stay put in the Northern Zakar, Tell Tacitus to oversee repair efforts Federation Wide and to send all undamaged combat capable ships to Honfleur. Give Jeanne a promotion to High Admiral and put her in charge of that fleet.” Diabella ordered.
There was a knock at the door and without her answering a group of doctors suddenly walked into the room.
“Give my seal and send the missive.” She said quickly as the doctors pushed the table away. Argo quickly closed down all sensitive data as the doctors began their examination of Diabella.
VMFR Dawns Early Light, Cherleau station, Monarick Orbit
34 days after the Gui’Dina invasion
It had only been a few days since they lost the airfield they had become acquainted with in detail and already MR4 Squadron were getting used to life on a Carrier. The Gui’Dina advance had finally reached the outskirts of Cherleau and the reservists airbase was now firmly in their control alongside most of the northern continent. The Federation Reserve Forces were steadily pushed back ever since invasion day. Now the time was coming for the most pivotal battle of the planet. The only obstacle left for the Gui’Dina to overcome was the Anti-Orbital Fortress. It housed the planet's only Anti-Orbital weapon as well as the only garrison of professional Federation soldiers which planetary command had held back until now.
Five fresh squadrons of fighters, A couple battalions of Federation Army and enough big guns on the Fort itself to level a city would hold the tide of the Gui’Dina invasion. Supplemented by the reserve forces this time it was going to be a full military operation. The first day of the battle was a resounding success for the Federation, Legate and the rest of MR4 had to listen to it from orbit as they awaited launch orders to provide back up. The Gui’Dinas were not expecting to face a well organised defence and only expected the usual fight and fall back fights the reservists gave. Day two rolled around and this was the start of the real battle. For hours artillery bombarded the Fort and its outlying defences. Ground based shield emitters and interception systems took care of most of it and the Federation forces suffered only minimal damages and losses. Realising they would have to pay another butcher's bill for what could be the final battle for the planet, the Gui’Dina withdrew for the day.
Day Three of what was now becoming a siege began with another massive bombardment as ground forces began pushing forward under its cover. What followed was a brutal exchange between the two forces as the Federation began using disintegration weapons and the Gui’Dina responded with incendiary weapons to flush the Federation soldiers from their defensive positions. MR4 and other reservists were finally called in to shore up the Forts defenders just as the battle on the ground was brutal as was the air war. Munitions from both sides filled the skies as the battle for aerial domination was taking place on the frontlines. Legate, Bloodstone, Mother and Loanshark all fought for hours making several resupply runs during breaks in the fighting. They were exhausted, their planes battered but still going strong. The five of them sat together drinking water and catching their breath as the hanger crew re-armed and refuelled their planes.
“I can’t go out there again. I’m going to get shot down, I can feel it.” Loanshark said fearfully.
“That last one was pretty close, good thing Legate was there.” Bloodstone replied.
“It was me who took the shot.” Shooter said playfully.
The group shared a laugh for a moment before the comms started blaring again.
“ALCON, All squadrons in service bays are to re-engage once ready. The Dina’s are pushing again.” Redline said plainly over the comms..
“Planes are ready to go!” One of the deck hands shouted at them.
The group shared a grim look with each other waiting to see who was going to get up first. Legate did first donning his flight helmet and zipping up his jumpsuit. The rest of the squadron followed suit and they made their way to their planes again. The Dina’s were again caught by surprise by a squadron of Federation fighters descended from high altitude. Unlike space altitude mattered when it came to terrestrial air battles and their quick descent gave them an opening on several Dina planes before they joined the furball. But something was different: instead of sending more planes the Dina’s were leaving the battlespace, what they were fighting was simply a rearguard action to allow the rest of their comrades to escape. Realising this the Federation pilots destroyed some the few remaining enemies and let the rest escape. Even at this altitude the combat on the ground seemed to be dying down. They survived another day at least.
“ALCON, ALCON, ALCON. Radiological signatures detected. I say again; Radiological signatures detected.” Redline announced over the comms net.
“The fort guns can’t aim that low, Everyone get to cover.” The Fortress commander ordered.
“All craft are ordered to engage the missile; we have five on route just above the treeline.” Redline ordered.
MR4 being the freshest squadron to arrive took point on the interception mission. Those who were low on munitions and fuel simply retreated back into the safe zone. On the ground those with access to vehicles loaded up as many as they could and began driving in the opposite direction while those who couldn’t filled the bunkers of the Fort.
“MR4 lining up for intercept.” Shooter announced.
“MR4-B; Fox 2”
“MR4-D; Fox 2”
“MR4-C Fox 2”
The missiles from the other squadron members launched without issue and tracked towards their targets.
“MR4-A Fox 3” Shooter announced as alarms blared in the cockpit.
“Missile jam, repeat missile jam.” She said panicked.
“Shit, I can’t do anything. I can’t-”
Shooter was cut off as the two remaining missiles flew past them, Their jet wash forcing Legate to course correct.
“Shit! Pilot get us out of the AO.” Redline panicked over the comms.
“MR4 maintain course and rendezvous back at the Dawn” He continued.
The missiles were terminal, there was nothing anyone could now but watch. As they approached the Fort they began their fission process and detonated into two giant fireballs that levelled everything. The only things that remained were a few bunkers lucky enough to be outside of the kill zone, the Fort walls were melted to slag and as if on queue the Gui’Dina troops began moving in again although this time they donned radiation protection.
Nouveau Adana, Adalouse, Federation Space, Zakar Frontier
37 days after Monarick Invasion
Diabella over the course of her stay in the hospital had turned her room into a command centre of sorts. With the restrictions of the hospital though, Argo, her trusted AI comrade, was doing most of the busy work that orderlies and other officers would be doing.
“Live update from Monarick, Nuclear attack conducted by Gui’Dina forces against the Fortress.” Argo reported.
“Merde!” Diabella exclaimed.
“Status of the Honfleur Fleet” She demanded
“Insufficient to take on a fleet of that size.” Argo replied.
“Adalouse Fleet and what’s ready of the Honfleur Fleet?” She queried.
“Sufficient, but will leave a critical weakness in our defences.” Argo responded.
“What other alternatives do we have?” She challenged the AI
“Several but none you will like.” It rose up to the challenge.
“This is our plan, tell Jeanne she’s in charge of the assault and we’ll deploy those retrained Marine Divisions to her as well.”
“By your command.”
The two continued to work on getting the Grand Navy reorganised with new rosters, promotions, constructions and everything in between to get back up to full strength.
VMFR Requiem of a Dream, Deep Space, Federation Space, Zakar Frontier
41 Days after Monarick Invasion
Jeanne de Arcturus was a career Navy woman, her family had a long history in the Grand Navy dating back to the old Imperial days. But unlike her ancestors she stalled her career on purpose. She found great joy serving under Diabella and in time the two became friends of sorts. She had been entrusted to lead Fleets before but normally under direction under Diabella herself. Today however she was on her own, every decision, every wrong move, every right move was hers to make. She tried not to think about it, she honed in on what needed to be done. She wondered if this is what the other High Admirals went through before every engagement.
“Admiral? We’re 3 minutes from exiting warp.” The ship's captain said from outside her ready room.
She stood up out of her chair and used the reflection of the monitor to straighten out her uniform before walking back into the CIC.
“Admiral on the deck!” The captain shouted.
“At ease!” Jeanne responded.
She took her place at the central display in the CIC and watched nervously as the timer ticked down to their arrival. Her Fleet was a hodgepodge of survivors from Commande that had been repaired back to full strength and the Adalouse Defence Fleet. Most of the officers in that Fleet were immediately swapped out for more veteran ones. The Defence Fleet served as a good spot for Federation higher ups and influential nobles to have their children assigned to so they could still spout about service but not have to see any combat. Wartime called for these drastic actions and they couldn’t afford to have green officers at the helm of the few remaining fully operational warships in the Federation. Tagged onto her force was several experimental Federation Marine Divisions, they had different equipment and new training compared to the other and if proven successful would see the ranks of the Federation Marines increase drastically.
“30 seconds.” The captain said aloud, bringing Jeanne’s focus back to the battle.
It suddenly felt like time had stopped for a moment as the fleet dropped out of warp nearly on top of the Gui’Dina Fleet. They couldn’t have expected this kind of a response at this stage and it showed. They were in a geosynchronous orbit of the planet, they were in low power mode and it would take some time to get the ships hot and back into combat speed.
“Begin!” Jeanne ordered.
The Federation was out numbered roughly 50:1 but these were good odds considering the capabilities of each force. Immediately the dreadnoughts began opening fire and wreaking havoc in the unaware fleet. As they closed the distance the smaller ships began firing as well. Carriers deployed their fighters and bombers who began making headway in front of the fleet, for the moment it looked like they would be the only ones under fire as the Gui’Dina launched their own strike craft to defend themselves.
“We’re detecting over 50 ships destroyed ma’am but it looks like they’re finally moving out of orbit.”
“Course detection has them moving towards the elevator station. They’re not going to fight!”
CIC officers bellowed out live updates.
“Ceasefire and continue for the planet. Bring the strike craft back but maintain a double CAP of the fleet.” Jeanne ordered as she turned her attention to the third person at the central console.
“General Vermont, this is your time now.” She said politely.
The tall man moved forward more into the light of the console and began issuing his orders. From the change of display from space to ground Jeanne could see that the Gui’Dina forces were at the outskirts of the city and pushing hard into the city. It was going to be a race to the space elevator for the Marines.
“Division 8, begin planetfall. Raiders begin operations” Vermont ordered.
Hundreds of combat drop ships disembarked from the Federation fleet and made their way to the surface. With no way to land directly in Cherleau they would be forced to land behind the enemy and establish a suitable landing zone. The chosen location was the destroyed Fortress, the damage caused by the nukes had given them the perfect landing zone for their heavy lifters. They would have minimal resistance there and it would serve as a good testing ground for the new equipment the Marines were given. The first big change was heavier and powered armour, the Federation normally lightly armours its troops as they will revive but under Diabella’s instructions new recruits are not receiving these augments. The second major change is the new IG-Rifles which use a railgun to deliver a timed explosive charge that will deliver Ignums at greater range than previous particle guns in use by the Federation military. The last edition to the Marines arsenal was the mech. AFter seeing extensive use in an urban enforcement environment during the Zen occupation and later the Second Zen War these mechs could provide rapid fire support in all terrains and were well suited to the environment they were dropping into.
While the main force flew down the Marine Raiders used drop pods to rapidly insert strike teams behind enemy lines to begin a campaign of guerilla warfare against supply lines and CCC facilities. The Federation had finally arrived in force and it was time for the Gui’Dina to be evicted off the planet.
VMFR Requiem of a Dream, Deep Space, Federation Space, Zakar Frontier
62 Days after Monarick Invasion
It had been almost another 3 weeks of fighting on the planet before a decisive outcome could be ascertained. As the Gui’Dina had two fronts to fight from now their ground forces spread themselves too thin and were quickly driven back. They however made it to the space elevator before the Marines and were making their last stand there. Elsewhere on the planet what Gui’Dina forces remained were cut off from supply lines and quickly fell to the Federation counter attack. The main issue was the lack of ship combat in orbit, both sides didn’t want to destroy the space elevators in the battle so neither side engaged. They stared down at each other for almost 3 weeks. It was clear this was the end and the Gui’Dina were cornered. It was just a matter of what they were going to do before they either fought till the end or tried to make a daring retreat. What Jeanne didn’t expect was that the commander of the Gui’Dina would call her from the bridge of the Dawns Early Light. She took the call in the CIC for everyone to see.
“I am Admiral Alexis Morozov of the Gui’Dina Republic Navy calling to the Federation commander.” The thin pale man said solemnly.
“This is High Admiral Jeanne de Arcturus of the Royal Federation Grand Navy, commander of the Monarick Liberation force. Go ahead Admiral Morozov” She said politely humouring the man.
“The tides of war are ever changing and it seems today the tides favour you. We are beaten and we know that, I don’t want to be responsible for more deaths in this battle. Every loyal Gui’Dina will throw down their arms if you allow us to evacuate and return home. We would also like to organise a prisoner exchange at the station before we leave.” Morozov continued.
“That’s a hefty request Admiral, please stand by.” Jeanne asked politely.
Jeanne gave a sign and the audio was cut.
“Get Lady Diabella on the line.” She ordered. And very quickly she found herself on the line to Diabella, this call was audio only.
“Jeanne? What happened?” Diabella asked.
“The enemy commander is asking to be allowed to surrender and evacuate their forces and exchange prisoners. How do you wish me to proceed?” Jeanne responded.
“I’ve been keeping up with the situation there and while I’d like to say kill every single one of those native sons of bitches for stepping onto our world. But he’s got us between a rock and a hard place. Collateral damage needs to be avoided and the risk minimised to civilian lives and infrastructure. Take the offer and take the win.” Diabella explained.
“Understood, milady. Thank you Jeanne out.” She said cutting the link before turning her attention back to Morozov.
“Admiral Morozov, on behalf of the Federation I will accept your surrender and allow you to evacuate your forces and leave. No harm will come to you so long as you follow through and throw down your arm.” Jeanne said as the CIC on both sides began cheering.
“Thank you Admiral. You have my word, we will throw down our arms and leave.” Morozov said with tears welling in his eyes.
Despite their losses the Gui’Dina had about 700,000 troops to move back into orbit; it didn’t happen as quickly as it took to land them. It was 5 more days before the invaders finally left after prisoners were exchanged they were free to go. Having felt the wrath of the Federation the Gui’Dina would be hesitant to try another invasion of Federation Space for some time. For now though Monarick could begin rebuilding and become a proud planet once again.
1 week before Monarick Invasion
“We’ve done what we can, she just needs time now.” One of the Doctors said taking off their gloves.
Diabella looked around the room, her vision finally clearing, the bright lights of the hospital dazed her as they rushed her to a triage room. Hooked into her was a series of IV drips and a blood transfusion. Everything hurt, was all she could think, But at least she was alive and safe. She slowly and painfully sat herself up on the bed and took in her surroundings. The ringing in her ears began to subside and she could hear the chaos of the hospital. Doctors and nurses scrambled to triage the influx of patients from Commande. The influx of wounded from recovered ships and the cataclysmic destruction of the Silver Ring seemed to be unending. What Diabella didn’t see was that those in the hospital had already been sorted into those that could be helped and those that were terminal. Although medical technology could save these people it was a lengthy process and the hospital was overcrowded as it was.
“Hey… you, What’s your name and rank?” Diabella asked the guard just outside the room.
The guard looked confused for a moment before moving into the room in an orderly fashion. He saluted sternly before standing at ease.
“Caporal Alain Danton, Milady. Assigned to guard duty.” Danton said plainly.
“Danton, I need a secure terminal or a comm line. I need to find out what's going on.” She struggled to say.
“We lost Milady!” Danton said plainly.
“We… lost?” Diabella asked, confused by what the man had just said.
“It’s all over the news Milady, The silver ring, two thirds of the fleet taken out of action and Commande rendered an environmental nightmare.” Danton continued.
Diabella sat dumbfounded for a moment as she processed everything the Caporal was saying to her. She missed out on a lot after her ship was destroyed. Rhongomyniad, her beloved ship which had seen her through the opening battle of the Third Great Galactic war all the way through to the Second Zen war. Moving on she turned her attention to the problem at hand. No doubt every command centre across the Federation was calling for orders and with HICOM out of action they’d be arguing against themselves on what to do. She cleared her throat and tried to look as stoic as she could given her condition.
“Victory or no, we need organisation in such a time and I don’t have an office to go to at the moment do I Caporal. Make haste, the longer we wait the more lives are at risk from the inaction of the military.” She commanded
Within the hour the Danton had returned with a small technical crew who set up a terminal on the hospital table and slid it in front of Diabella. The last thing they placed was a small holographic projector which once powered displayed a Trireme style ship. The techs did a thorough scan of the room for any listening devices, saluted and left Diabella alone.
“Despite my inability to display emotions I am glad you aren’t dead Milady.” Argo’s synthetic voice rang out.
“Thank you Argo, can I have that sitrep now please.” She asked politely.
“Fleet group Rhongomyniad is at 7% combat effectiveness and currently docked at Honfleur, The Carrier Dawns Early Light was under repairs when it escaped and jumped to Monarick. It is currently under heavy attack. Fleet Group Normandie is only at 22% Combat effectiveness and Admiral Tacitus is currently trying to reorganise it by absorbing the devastated Fleet Groups Maginot and High Seas at Nouveau Lyon.” Argo explained as he provided lists of ships and personnel casualties.
“Fleet Groups Regno, Ganymede and Galaxy have been rendered combat ineffective with only a dozen combat ships heavily damaged between the two of them. They are with Fleet group Rhongomyniad at Honfleur. Military casualties are roughly 400 Million and growing, the overwhelming majority of these being deaths. We don’t have an estimate on civilian casualties at this time but accounting for how many got off world its 2.3 Billion give or take a few hundred million.” The AI continued.
“How about some good news, who do we have left?” Diabella requested.
“Fleet Group Olympus Mons is still at full combat effectiveness due to their defensive duties of Zentheran Space and the Home Fleet is too but they are scattered conducting counter attacks against the Gui’Dina Republic who are currently using hit and run measures against retreating forces. The Duchess has begun mobilising reserve units across the Federation to bolster system defenders.”
“Gui’Dina Republic? The opposite of the Gui’Dina State which we send weapons too? Do they have an official line about this?” Diabella said with rising anger.
“None so far but all three Gui’Dina Polities are mobilising their forces. Estimates have a massive Gui’Dina invasion at Monarick occurring within a week.” The AI continued with his monotone voice.
“What’s Marcus and Tacitus doing? And where’s Jeanne and Leonello?” She said struggling to keep her emotions in check.
“Admiral Marcus is standing by for your order, he’s refusing to listen to anyone else. Admiral Tacitus is trying to re-establish the chain of command to little or no avail. Admiral Jeanne is residing at Honfleur overseeing the repair efforts of whatever ships made it. General Leonello is currently overseeing the last of the evacuation efforts from commande.”
“I want to give a Federation wide order.” Diabella said sternly.
“Raise alert status to DEFCON One, continue calling in the reserve forces to aid in the defence of the Federation. Tell Marcus to stay put in the Northern Zakar, Tell Tacitus to oversee repair efforts Federation Wide and to send all undamaged combat capable ships to Honfleur. Give Jeanne a promotion to High Admiral and put her in charge of that fleet.” Diabella ordered.
There was a knock at the door and without her answering a group of doctors suddenly walked into the room.
“Give my seal and send the missive.” She said quickly as the doctors pushed the table away. Argo quickly closed down all sensitive data as the doctors began their examination of Diabella.
VMFR Dawns Early Light, Cherleau station, Monarick Orbit
34 days after the Gui’Dina invasion
It had only been a few days since they lost the airfield they had become acquainted with in detail and already MR4 Squadron were getting used to life on a Carrier. The Gui’Dina advance had finally reached the outskirts of Cherleau and the reservists airbase was now firmly in their control alongside most of the northern continent. The Federation Reserve Forces were steadily pushed back ever since invasion day. Now the time was coming for the most pivotal battle of the planet. The only obstacle left for the Gui’Dina to overcome was the Anti-Orbital Fortress. It housed the planet's only Anti-Orbital weapon as well as the only garrison of professional Federation soldiers which planetary command had held back until now.
Five fresh squadrons of fighters, A couple battalions of Federation Army and enough big guns on the Fort itself to level a city would hold the tide of the Gui’Dina invasion. Supplemented by the reserve forces this time it was going to be a full military operation. The first day of the battle was a resounding success for the Federation, Legate and the rest of MR4 had to listen to it from orbit as they awaited launch orders to provide back up. The Gui’Dinas were not expecting to face a well organised defence and only expected the usual fight and fall back fights the reservists gave. Day two rolled around and this was the start of the real battle. For hours artillery bombarded the Fort and its outlying defences. Ground based shield emitters and interception systems took care of most of it and the Federation forces suffered only minimal damages and losses. Realising they would have to pay another butcher's bill for what could be the final battle for the planet, the Gui’Dina withdrew for the day.
Day Three of what was now becoming a siege began with another massive bombardment as ground forces began pushing forward under its cover. What followed was a brutal exchange between the two forces as the Federation began using disintegration weapons and the Gui’Dina responded with incendiary weapons to flush the Federation soldiers from their defensive positions. MR4 and other reservists were finally called in to shore up the Forts defenders just as the battle on the ground was brutal as was the air war. Munitions from both sides filled the skies as the battle for aerial domination was taking place on the frontlines. Legate, Bloodstone, Mother and Loanshark all fought for hours making several resupply runs during breaks in the fighting. They were exhausted, their planes battered but still going strong. The five of them sat together drinking water and catching their breath as the hanger crew re-armed and refuelled their planes.
“I can’t go out there again. I’m going to get shot down, I can feel it.” Loanshark said fearfully.
“That last one was pretty close, good thing Legate was there.” Bloodstone replied.
“It was me who took the shot.” Shooter said playfully.
The group shared a laugh for a moment before the comms started blaring again.
“ALCON, All squadrons in service bays are to re-engage once ready. The Dina’s are pushing again.” Redline said plainly over the comms..
“Planes are ready to go!” One of the deck hands shouted at them.
The group shared a grim look with each other waiting to see who was going to get up first. Legate did first donning his flight helmet and zipping up his jumpsuit. The rest of the squadron followed suit and they made their way to their planes again. The Dina’s were again caught by surprise by a squadron of Federation fighters descended from high altitude. Unlike space altitude mattered when it came to terrestrial air battles and their quick descent gave them an opening on several Dina planes before they joined the furball. But something was different: instead of sending more planes the Dina’s were leaving the battlespace, what they were fighting was simply a rearguard action to allow the rest of their comrades to escape. Realising this the Federation pilots destroyed some the few remaining enemies and let the rest escape. Even at this altitude the combat on the ground seemed to be dying down. They survived another day at least.
“ALCON, ALCON, ALCON. Radiological signatures detected. I say again; Radiological signatures detected.” Redline announced over the comms net.
“The fort guns can’t aim that low, Everyone get to cover.” The Fortress commander ordered.
“All craft are ordered to engage the missile; we have five on route just above the treeline.” Redline ordered.
MR4 being the freshest squadron to arrive took point on the interception mission. Those who were low on munitions and fuel simply retreated back into the safe zone. On the ground those with access to vehicles loaded up as many as they could and began driving in the opposite direction while those who couldn’t filled the bunkers of the Fort.
“MR4 lining up for intercept.” Shooter announced.
“MR4-B; Fox 2”
“MR4-D; Fox 2”
“MR4-C Fox 2”
The missiles from the other squadron members launched without issue and tracked towards their targets.
“MR4-A Fox 3” Shooter announced as alarms blared in the cockpit.
“Missile jam, repeat missile jam.” She said panicked.
“Shit, I can’t do anything. I can’t-”
Shooter was cut off as the two remaining missiles flew past them, Their jet wash forcing Legate to course correct.
“Shit! Pilot get us out of the AO.” Redline panicked over the comms.
“MR4 maintain course and rendezvous back at the Dawn” He continued.
The missiles were terminal, there was nothing anyone could now but watch. As they approached the Fort they began their fission process and detonated into two giant fireballs that levelled everything. The only things that remained were a few bunkers lucky enough to be outside of the kill zone, the Fort walls were melted to slag and as if on queue the Gui’Dina troops began moving in again although this time they donned radiation protection.
Nouveau Adana, Adalouse, Federation Space, Zakar Frontier
37 days after Monarick Invasion
Diabella over the course of her stay in the hospital had turned her room into a command centre of sorts. With the restrictions of the hospital though, Argo, her trusted AI comrade, was doing most of the busy work that orderlies and other officers would be doing.
“Live update from Monarick, Nuclear attack conducted by Gui’Dina forces against the Fortress.” Argo reported.
“Merde!” Diabella exclaimed.
“Status of the Honfleur Fleet” She demanded
“Insufficient to take on a fleet of that size.” Argo replied.
“Adalouse Fleet and what’s ready of the Honfleur Fleet?” She queried.
“Sufficient, but will leave a critical weakness in our defences.” Argo responded.
“What other alternatives do we have?” She challenged the AI
“Several but none you will like.” It rose up to the challenge.
“This is our plan, tell Jeanne she’s in charge of the assault and we’ll deploy those retrained Marine Divisions to her as well.”
“By your command.”
The two continued to work on getting the Grand Navy reorganised with new rosters, promotions, constructions and everything in between to get back up to full strength.
VMFR Requiem of a Dream, Deep Space, Federation Space, Zakar Frontier
41 Days after Monarick Invasion
Jeanne de Arcturus was a career Navy woman, her family had a long history in the Grand Navy dating back to the old Imperial days. But unlike her ancestors she stalled her career on purpose. She found great joy serving under Diabella and in time the two became friends of sorts. She had been entrusted to lead Fleets before but normally under direction under Diabella herself. Today however she was on her own, every decision, every wrong move, every right move was hers to make. She tried not to think about it, she honed in on what needed to be done. She wondered if this is what the other High Admirals went through before every engagement.
“Admiral? We’re 3 minutes from exiting warp.” The ship's captain said from outside her ready room.
She stood up out of her chair and used the reflection of the monitor to straighten out her uniform before walking back into the CIC.
“Admiral on the deck!” The captain shouted.
“At ease!” Jeanne responded.
She took her place at the central display in the CIC and watched nervously as the timer ticked down to their arrival. Her Fleet was a hodgepodge of survivors from Commande that had been repaired back to full strength and the Adalouse Defence Fleet. Most of the officers in that Fleet were immediately swapped out for more veteran ones. The Defence Fleet served as a good spot for Federation higher ups and influential nobles to have their children assigned to so they could still spout about service but not have to see any combat. Wartime called for these drastic actions and they couldn’t afford to have green officers at the helm of the few remaining fully operational warships in the Federation. Tagged onto her force was several experimental Federation Marine Divisions, they had different equipment and new training compared to the other and if proven successful would see the ranks of the Federation Marines increase drastically.
“30 seconds.” The captain said aloud, bringing Jeanne’s focus back to the battle.
It suddenly felt like time had stopped for a moment as the fleet dropped out of warp nearly on top of the Gui’Dina Fleet. They couldn’t have expected this kind of a response at this stage and it showed. They were in a geosynchronous orbit of the planet, they were in low power mode and it would take some time to get the ships hot and back into combat speed.
“Begin!” Jeanne ordered.
The Federation was out numbered roughly 50:1 but these were good odds considering the capabilities of each force. Immediately the dreadnoughts began opening fire and wreaking havoc in the unaware fleet. As they closed the distance the smaller ships began firing as well. Carriers deployed their fighters and bombers who began making headway in front of the fleet, for the moment it looked like they would be the only ones under fire as the Gui’Dina launched their own strike craft to defend themselves.
“We’re detecting over 50 ships destroyed ma’am but it looks like they’re finally moving out of orbit.”
“Course detection has them moving towards the elevator station. They’re not going to fight!”
CIC officers bellowed out live updates.
“Ceasefire and continue for the planet. Bring the strike craft back but maintain a double CAP of the fleet.” Jeanne ordered as she turned her attention to the third person at the central console.
“General Vermont, this is your time now.” She said politely.
The tall man moved forward more into the light of the console and began issuing his orders. From the change of display from space to ground Jeanne could see that the Gui’Dina forces were at the outskirts of the city and pushing hard into the city. It was going to be a race to the space elevator for the Marines.
“Division 8, begin planetfall. Raiders begin operations” Vermont ordered.
Hundreds of combat drop ships disembarked from the Federation fleet and made their way to the surface. With no way to land directly in Cherleau they would be forced to land behind the enemy and establish a suitable landing zone. The chosen location was the destroyed Fortress, the damage caused by the nukes had given them the perfect landing zone for their heavy lifters. They would have minimal resistance there and it would serve as a good testing ground for the new equipment the Marines were given. The first big change was heavier and powered armour, the Federation normally lightly armours its troops as they will revive but under Diabella’s instructions new recruits are not receiving these augments. The second major change is the new IG-Rifles which use a railgun to deliver a timed explosive charge that will deliver Ignums at greater range than previous particle guns in use by the Federation military. The last edition to the Marines arsenal was the mech. AFter seeing extensive use in an urban enforcement environment during the Zen occupation and later the Second Zen War these mechs could provide rapid fire support in all terrains and were well suited to the environment they were dropping into.
While the main force flew down the Marine Raiders used drop pods to rapidly insert strike teams behind enemy lines to begin a campaign of guerilla warfare against supply lines and CCC facilities. The Federation had finally arrived in force and it was time for the Gui’Dina to be evicted off the planet.
VMFR Requiem of a Dream, Deep Space, Federation Space, Zakar Frontier
62 Days after Monarick Invasion
It had been almost another 3 weeks of fighting on the planet before a decisive outcome could be ascertained. As the Gui’Dina had two fronts to fight from now their ground forces spread themselves too thin and were quickly driven back. They however made it to the space elevator before the Marines and were making their last stand there. Elsewhere on the planet what Gui’Dina forces remained were cut off from supply lines and quickly fell to the Federation counter attack. The main issue was the lack of ship combat in orbit, both sides didn’t want to destroy the space elevators in the battle so neither side engaged. They stared down at each other for almost 3 weeks. It was clear this was the end and the Gui’Dina were cornered. It was just a matter of what they were going to do before they either fought till the end or tried to make a daring retreat. What Jeanne didn’t expect was that the commander of the Gui’Dina would call her from the bridge of the Dawns Early Light. She took the call in the CIC for everyone to see.
“I am Admiral Alexis Morozov of the Gui’Dina Republic Navy calling to the Federation commander.” The thin pale man said solemnly.
“This is High Admiral Jeanne de Arcturus of the Royal Federation Grand Navy, commander of the Monarick Liberation force. Go ahead Admiral Morozov” She said politely humouring the man.
“The tides of war are ever changing and it seems today the tides favour you. We are beaten and we know that, I don’t want to be responsible for more deaths in this battle. Every loyal Gui’Dina will throw down their arms if you allow us to evacuate and return home. We would also like to organise a prisoner exchange at the station before we leave.” Morozov continued.
“That’s a hefty request Admiral, please stand by.” Jeanne asked politely.
Jeanne gave a sign and the audio was cut.
“Get Lady Diabella on the line.” She ordered. And very quickly she found herself on the line to Diabella, this call was audio only.
“Jeanne? What happened?” Diabella asked.
“The enemy commander is asking to be allowed to surrender and evacuate their forces and exchange prisoners. How do you wish me to proceed?” Jeanne responded.
“I’ve been keeping up with the situation there and while I’d like to say kill every single one of those native sons of bitches for stepping onto our world. But he’s got us between a rock and a hard place. Collateral damage needs to be avoided and the risk minimised to civilian lives and infrastructure. Take the offer and take the win.” Diabella explained.
“Understood, milady. Thank you Jeanne out.” She said cutting the link before turning her attention back to Morozov.
“Admiral Morozov, on behalf of the Federation I will accept your surrender and allow you to evacuate your forces and leave. No harm will come to you so long as you follow through and throw down your arm.” Jeanne said as the CIC on both sides began cheering.
“Thank you Admiral. You have my word, we will throw down our arms and leave.” Morozov said with tears welling in his eyes.
Despite their losses the Gui’Dina had about 700,000 troops to move back into orbit; it didn’t happen as quickly as it took to land them. It was 5 more days before the invaders finally left after prisoners were exchanged they were free to go. Having felt the wrath of the Federation the Gui’Dina would be hesitant to try another invasion of Federation Space for some time. For now though Monarick could begin rebuilding and become a proud planet once again.