Hello everyone and welcome back to another edition of 'Demon Lord of the Strike Witches'. Everything has been set in motion between Cipher and Minna with Wardog Squadron, and the upcoming events for the Circum-Pacific War. Things are about to go a little… up as we're nearing Wardog's framed treason and becoming the Razgriz. Let's delve into the story, but first, reviews.
Thorthemighty321: Since I cannot spoil stuff in this chapter, let's just say it's a conversation between you and me.
Colonel AmiruddinArifSulaiman: Yes. It will be hell for the Grey Men… a lot.
Gamerman22: Same for me, mate.
Gropau25: Thanks, mate. And I hope Nipa gets better.
Konnigvanmessen: I believe so. And yes, Blaze is modeled after Sinon/Shino Asada.
Guest Reviewer One: I will do so. For the Aces, that may take time because so far, only Galm and Razgriz Teams have made an appearance and I might plan on adding in Mobius One, Garuda Team, Phoenix and/or any other squadron. Thanks for the review and the support.
Guest Reviewer Two: I know everything is going amuck here, but if you want to know what Pixy is doing, let's just say he's helping rebuild Gallia.
DrollerKnight: Pixy is doing well. I'll reveal it in due time.
That settles it. Hope you enjoy.
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Chapter 13: Pro-Peace
Cipher's (Daniel Cross') P.O.V.
Trying to find any leads on the Grabacr Fighter Squadron has been tough recently. The only thing that they have done so far is kidnap the Osean President, which allowed the Vice President to assume command and leadership to the country. For now, we're at a dead end. We only uncovered Grabacr's and Ofnir's involvement, and Gründer Industries. I feel bad for Isara and her squadron because they share sympathies to the anti-war people and soldiers, along with killing Yuktobanian soldiers who doesn't want to be involved in a war at all.
For now, we've got word from Ustio Command that Osea had made its invasion of Yuktobania, in the Bastok Peninsula. Brass called it Operation Footprint. I do not know why they call it that. Anyway, Isara and her squadron defended the Osean military transports and took over the fortress at Volna Beach. It was successful, though both sides suffered heavy losses. Now under Supreme Commander Howell, the Osean Army launched its offensive deep within the country. I kept reading the headlines saying that Osea will be victorious, or Yuktobania will never surrender. Great… Just great.
"Daniel?" I turned my head to see my girlfriend holding an envelope which was handed to by Belkan Chancellor Melchior from Wulfstan. "We have a few leads."
"Good girl, Minna." I played with her hair as she blushed "So, what do you have?"
"A lot of papers detailing the 8492nd or 229th Tactical Fighter Squadron." She answered as she pulled up the first sheet. "Let's see… Ah, here we go. Ashley Bernitz, Hauptmann of the Belkan Air Force, one of Belka's leading aces in the war. One of his major actions is at Area B7R at the Osean-Belkan-Ustio border. Sources said that he, along with Ofnir One are chasing down a traitor that was supposed to drop a nuclear weapon on a city. During the battle, he was shot down by 'The Demon Lord of the Round Table', and disappeared from combat shortly."
"Well, that's one way to know why he's chasing the Fishbed. What else?" I asked
"He was an ultranationalist and a patriot to the Principality. He doesn't want the nation to surrender to the Allied Forces and now a member of the Osean Air Force as an aggressor squadron after both Grabacr and Ofnir are assimilated into both Osean and Yuktobanian Air Forces. That's all what it was written."
"I see." I answered "What's Wardog doing next?" Luke came in after he tweaked his AWACS plane.
"Their next mission involves shooting down multiple Yuktobanian transports carrying military equipment." He answered "They are meant to counterattack the invasion force which landed. After suffering defeat, they're withdrawing from the area to strengthen Cinigrad, the capital of Yuktobania."
"Where are they?" Minna asked
"Dresdene."
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Dresdene Outskirts, Union of Yuktobanian Republics
November 2nd, 2010
"There is so much interference, Daniel." Minna said as her aircraft's radar went haywire "I can't see nothing. Not even your plane."
"In physical form, you can still. On radar, it's a little hard. I guess it's the jamming aircraft that they are using." I answered "Ascension, have you set up ECCM?"
"It's all set up, you two." Ascension answered
"Good. I can see both your planes now." She answered "And there are the transports." We saw a plethora of C-5 Galaxy's to C-130 Hercules transports. They are being escorted by F-14's and F-15's, my aircraft of choice. "Four hits on radar, Wardog has arrived in the combat area."
"Looks like they're flying the same stuff at Akerson Hill." I said "Strange. Since when does Osea fly MiG's?"
"It appears as though Wardog's Three and Four are now flying MiG-35's. Super Fulcrum's. They have been given by Yuktobania as military export deals before the war." Ascension answered
"I'll tap into the radio, okay Daniel?"
"Go for it, sweet pea." I answered as she began tuning frequencies.
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Blaze's (Isara Fuchigami-Cross') P.O.V.
We were flying over Dresdene's mountain range as we spotted the transport planes that we're required to shoot down. For the past few weeks, I felt pity on our enemy. It feels like, they do not want to be involved in this war. Also, Edge and I have been communicating a lot recently. Some say, we might be close. Anyway, I'm in my Wyvern, Edge in her Raptor, and Chopper and Grimm are in Super Fulcrum's.
"Hey, hey, hey, Kid." Chopper laughed "Did you take a listen to that song?"
"Y-Yes I did, Chopper." I answered "It sounds awesome. Like my S-Pop."
"You didn't tell us you're Satsuman, Captain." Grimm commented
"There's a little more to me than you know." I answered "Anyway, transports in sight. Blaze, engaging!"
"Edge, engaging!"
"Archer, engaging!"
"Whoops! Chopper, engaging!" We spotted an aerial convoy filled with C-130 Hercules and C-5 Galaxy transports filled with retreating Yuktobanian equipment. Edge shot down an F-14 before we caught up to the convoy. My radio came to life while I shot down a Hercules.
"Due to current circumstances, we have been forced to set foot on Yuktobania with weapons in hand." That was from General Howell, the commander of the Yuktobanian invasion force. "However, our true enemy is the Yuktobanian military who started this unjust war."
"We got to bag all these planes?" Chopped whined
"You think every enemy plane in the area is up and flying?" Grimm asked
"Well, let's ask him." Chopper answered "Hey, how many planes you got there? …Man, this is making me cry." We shot down more transports along with Tomcat and Eagle escort fighters.
"Yuktobania wasn't kidding when they said they are a superpower." I said to myself. I checked on my radar as it became all blurry. "Hey Nagase, isn't your working?"
"My radar is showing strange results as well. Something's going on." Edge answered. Grimm deduced that the Yuktobanians are also being escorted by jamming craft.
"I've figured it out."
"Let me hear it, Grimm." I answered as I shot down an Eagle
"Everyone, jammer aircraft!" I looked up as I saw an E-767.
"So it's… a trick?" Chopper asked
"How could this be? Our new jamming devices are supposed to be perfect." A Yuke pilot complained
"Where are the jammers? They've got to be somewhere close. Let's take care of them first." Edge suggested
"I'm right behind on that idea, Edge." I answered as I turned to the others. "Wardog, targets are now the jamming craft. Do not let any single one get away."
"Roger!" Edge and I destroyed one jammer while Chopper and Archer shot down the other. That created a lot of frustration to the Yuktobanians because their secret weapon is ineffective. It also let us hunt the transports more effectively without being jammed.
"Therefore, I ask you, citizens of Yuktobania: Do not fear us, but rather join us in…" General Howell continued before being cut off by the jammer plane. I shot it down immediately as Archer shot down another transport. That only leaves the second group.
"…enemy …jamming waves… interference…" Thunderhead tried to contact us before being jammed
"I don't remember another jammer plane with us." I pondered. Just then, another voice filled in, and it's someone familiar.
"This is the 8492nd leader. All 8492nd units, proceed as planned."
"Wait… I know that voice…" I said
"Dammit… even our…" Chopper tried to break through, before being cut off by a new voice.
"Isara? Isara, you copy?" The new voice said. My eyes grew wide as I knew this voice.
"Daniel? Is that you?" I asked excitedly "When did you…?"
"Yeah, it's me." My brother answered "Look, no time to chat. It turns out that the 8492nd Squadron has attacked an engineering college. I know that you might hate me for not seeing you for the past fifteen years, but that's all the information I can send. I promise to see you whenever and wherever I run into you. For now, get back to your mission."
"R-Yes, Cipher." After talking with him, the jamming subsided as I was being swarmed with radio calls of the Oseans attacking the engineering college. "I thought they are a friendly squadron, not a terror group." Thunderhead then radioed us.
"Whoever's violating orders, cease fire immediately!"
"What idiot's doing that?" Chopper asked
"Attention, units operating in sector Charlie Omega! Attacks on civilians are forbidden!" Thunderhead ordered as we continued to shoot down the escort fighters and transports.
"That's right near us." Grimm pinpointed or location
"Hell, that's where we're supposed to be operating. You see those idiots anywhere?" Chopper asked
"I got nothing on my screen." Edge answered
"Same here." Archer and I answered
"We've got multiple casualties!" A Yuke soldier said "Get an ambulance over here!"
"This is Thunderhead. Wardog, did you engage in an attack on a civilian facility?"
"Negative, Thunderhead." I answered "We would never do that."
"Roger. So you sure you didn't do this."
"Absolutely not, AWACS." I answered again. As I answered the rest shot down the remaining transports as the mission was completed. I laid back in my pilot seat as it was not good news for us due to the fact that we are going to be questioned. We head back to base as I noticed my brother's aircraft high above me with the same two aircraft with him.
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Cipher's (Daniel Cross') P.O.V.
"Daniel, your sister's squadron has been framed for a crime they didn't commit." Minna said
"I know." I answered "I think Ashley's doing this to create more hatred between the two countries. And I think Michael's causing the same within Yuktobania. Anyway, back to base you two."
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November 4th, 2010
Oured, Osean Federation
Two days later, I was being dressed into my service uniform as Minna put on a pair of black service uniform pants, because you know why. It turns out that Field Marshal Wulfstan wants us to come to Osea's Command Center to discuss our findings so far. We rented a hotel room as Minna and I slept with each other again. Her breathing on me made me very peaceful with her around. Anyway, we got ourselves together and drove to the Command Building.
When we got there, it was guarded by soldiers who are ready in case a Yuktobanian attack can come in. They let us in since we're affiliated with Ustio, a neutral country, but operating under black operations. We're trying to find Wulfstan's office as I felt nostalgic about being in this uniform again. At least Minna kept calm about it, until I overheard a military hearing. I let Minna go ahead as I listened in.
"Yes sir. In my sector, I heard a pilot saying that they are to proceed as planned." My sister said "The lead pilot is with the 8492nd Squadron."
"Are you sure about this?" One of the generals asked
"Yes sir." Isara answered "But I'm not sure how did they receive jamming equipment and came into the operational zone." I opened the door as I walked to my sister.
"That's because their aircraft may be installed with ECM equipment." I answered as Isara became surprised to see me. I winked at her as the Generals looked at me.
"State your name and affiliation, son." One of them ordered
"Sir, Captain Daniel Cross of the Republic of Ustio Air Force, 6th Air Division, 66th Air Force Unit, callsign 'Galm', TAC name 'Cipher' sir." I answered as I removed my cap.
"May I ask why you're here, Captain?" Another asked
"I'm here to see one of the Osean Generals that is available today." I answered falsely "What Captain Fuchigami-Cross was saying is true. The engineering school was indeed attacked by members of the 8492nd. She, more like we, didn't provide enough evidence because of what was happening. However, if you hear the recordings, you'll understand." As I played the recording, the Generals were surprised at first.
"Cipher, after hearing this evidence, it occurs to us that Wardog is not committed to the crime." He answered "However, the 8492nd Squadron is still baffling. Captain Fuchigami-Cross, your squadron is cleared of any charges against you. You are dismissed." We saluted as we stepped back into the hallway. We looked at each other for a minute before hugging.
"Where have you been?" She asked
"I've been… seeing places." I answered as we let go "I see your squadron was in a pickle back there."
"Thanks to those 8492nd people." She muttered "Why did they do that?" I have an idea, but Wulfstan won't like it.
"How about you follow me?" Isara nodded as we walked to Wulfstan's office. When we arrived, Minna was already speaking to her. Wulfstan noticed our arrival and soon talked to her. "Sorry ma'am. It's just that-"
"Don't, Captain." She answered "Commander Wilcke already told me about you and your relationship with her. I always treat a family member in the military with respect. What is your name, pilot?" Isara saluted before the Ustian Field Marshal.
"Captain Isara Fuchigami-Cross, sister to Captain Daniel Cross, squad leader of the 108th Tactical Fighter Squadron known as Wardog." She went to an 'at ease' position "I haven't seen my brother in a long time, ma'am."
"I know how Cipher feels, Captain." The Field Marshal answered "He has been off the radar recently due to him being warped to another world, where he met this girl." Isara took note of my girlfriend. She introduced herself as Isara went wide-eyed to find that she is my girlfriend.
"You have been taking good care of Daniel since he went to your world?" Isara asked. Minna nodded as she turned to me next.
"Daniel, you break her heart and you wish you were never born." Isara said as she poked my chest
"I got it, Isara." I answered "So, you want to know what I have been doing?" Isara nodded as Minna filled her in.
"Daniel and I have been a part of Ustio's Black Operations group." She began "We have been responsible for… Should I say it Field Marshal?" Wulfstan nodded "We have been responsible for monitoring the actions between Osea and Yuktobania since September. Wulfstan already contacted the Belkan Chancellor, and he said that Belkan hardliners from the last war have tied both countries around their finger. And therefore, we are sent in to stop them."
"If you're working for Ustio, isn't the country at war though?" Isara asked
"Technically not." Wulfstan answered "We're just fighting a secret war against the Belkan hardliners. If we don't stop them now, then both superpowers will annihilate each other. From what the Chancellor said, the hardliner's goal is to restore Belka to its might once again and reunite the two Belka's. The North, and the South."
"So Belka is the true enemy. We need to tell the President and…"
"Just one problem, Isara." I interrupted "It turns out that President Harling has been kidnapped and placed in an unknown location at this time. If we can find him, along with Yuktobanian Prime Minister Nikanor, then they'll bring peace back between the two countries."
"I know it is against your suggestion, Field Marshal, but can Isara join our inside operation?" Minna asked. She thought long and hard about it, how an Osean pilot will be accepted into an operation that is headed by the Ustio government. After carefully examining the possible consequences, Wulfstan came with her answer.
"If you don't tell your wingmen and your Osean allies about our involvement, then you're welcome aboard." Wulfstan said as Isara shook her hand
"Arigatou gozaimasu."
"It's no problem, and…" An intercom then blared across the building
'Attention all Osean personnel.' The intercom spoke. 'We have received reports that there is an incoming terrorist attack at Apito International Airport. We will divert all flights to a nearby airport and have our forces destroy those involved. If there is any squadron available, please, turn back the attackers.'
Isara turned to the three of us. "My squadron are the only ones available to stop the threats. Wish me luck, Daniel." I hugged her as she returned it, and ran out of the room.
"Everyone's looking up to you now, Isara." I said silently
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The next few weeks have been smooth sailing for the Osean Army. Ever since they invaded Yuktobania, they did not stop. Since Wardog redeemed itself by averting the Apito terror strike, they have been the spearhead of the assault, and Osea looks to them as their pillar of hope. No soldier, or aircraft ever shot down one. On one mission, they were sent to the Razgriz Straits near Estovakia, a country that was recovering from the Ulysses meteors. The country suffered a lot of hardships, and may soon be under a new war.
Wardog's mission is to sink the Scinfaxi's sister, the Hrimfaxi. That was when the Yuktobanians gave Wardog their infamous nickname, Razgriz. During their return flight, Isara's squad mate, Kei Nagase, has been shot down. When I talked to her over the phone, she was either heartbroken or purely saddened that she may have lost her loyal wingman. She later confessed to me that she is in love with her wingman. Tell you what, I am surprised as you are.
When she was recovered, the first thing Isara did was kiss her out of the blue. Nagase was as surprised as I am, but she gratefully accepted it for who Isara really is. Things have died down for a while, until Wardog received their mission to do a fly-by over a rally at November City. Our operation will be called 'Supercircus', and it is to provide aerial reconnaissance and security over the area. One thing I knew, is that Isara is waiting for us.
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November City, Osean Federation
November 29th, 2010
Minna is with me inside my aircraft. Apparently, since both of our aircraft are undergoing refits and maintenance, Ustio has supplied us with an F-15E Strike Eagle. I was the pilot while Minna is a Weapons System Officer. It took her a long time to adjust to her new role, but she's handling it.
"You doing alright back there, Minna?" I asked
"Controls feel a bit different than the Tornado, but I'll manage." She answered as she tested the weapons in case anything happens.
"Cipher, Minna, Wardog is commencing its ceremonial flight." Ascension said as we looked down to find the four-man squadron. They did all kinds of maneuvers that have wowed the spectators in the stadium. After a minute or two, Ascension told us to tune in to the broadcast that was about to be made by the Osean Vice President, who has been running the country since Harling's disappearance.
'People of Osea.' The Vice President proclaimed 'Please lend an ear to this broadcast. As your Vice President, I stand here before you on behalf of the President of Osea. Listen to your fellow countrymen cheering before me. They are filled with anger against Yuktobania, and they swear that they will not drop their weapons until Yuktobania has surrendered. Now, I ask you to listen. Listen to their cheers!'
"Guy sounds like Maloney." I commented "All pompous and whatnot."
"Daniel, I'm getting something from the audience." Minna said as I soon heard the citizens inside the stadium. They were not cheering but… singing?
'Wait… that song!' The Vice President realized 'Citizens, please, stop this…' I smiled as I heard the defiance from the crowd.
"Thoughts endless in flight, day turns to night, questions you ask your soul. Which way do I go, how fast is too slow, the journey has its time within us." Minna sang
"That was beautiful, Minna." I complimented her for her singing. I could tell that she is smiling and blushing underneath her flight helmet.
"T-Thank you, Daniel." Minna answered as Ascension has some news for us.
"Galm One, we have incoming Yuktobanian aircraft. They are targeting the stadium." Ascension said. Both Minna and I are stunned to hear that the Yuktobanians are resorting to attack civilians once again.
"What do we do?" Minna asked "We're not authorized to attack Yuktobania, otherwise Ustio may suffer the consequences."
"Minna's right, Ascension." I agreed with her "If we attack, Ustio might be attacked by them."
"Well, it is a good thing that Wardog is near the area." Ascension answered "From what intelligence said, the squadron is decked out in case anything happens."
"Alright. You can do this, Isara." I encouraged her
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Blaze's (Isara Fuchigami-Cross') P.O.V.
"This is Thunderhead. Approaching enemy formation confirmed. Wardog, engage them."
"Blaze, roger that AWACS. We're engaging." I answered as we found a fleet of Su-27 Flanker's. My Wyvern's missiles connected against the first Flanker as the second one has been riddled with gunfire by Edge.
"Stadium is in sight." One of the Yuke pilots reported
"Secure the airspace until the Gorizont Squadron arrives." One of the lead planes ordered as the attackers tried to reach the stadium.
"Are we… the only ones here?" Edge asked as I scanned the skies, trying to find any allied craft. There are none.
"I guess so. Thunderhead, we're all alone here. We need some back-up to secure the airspace." I reported
"Roger Wardog One. I've already contacted McNealy Air Force Base. They have scrambled their fighters, but they are delayed due to an aircraft crashing after takeoff." Thunderhead answered "I'm calling for aerial reinforcements now. It'll be six minutes before the nearest squadron arrives."
"Roger, keep us updated."
"We got Typhoons!" Grimm called out as a pair of them entered November City. Chopper and Grimm immediately dueled with them as the former thought of something.
"…Hey, wait a minute." He said "Whoa, they're still singing. Why aren't they evacuating the stadium? Where's the air-raid siren?"
"You may be right, Captain." Thunderhead answered "I'll send out the signal. Hold them off for now."
"Blaze, we got MiG-31 Foxhounds." Edge reported as she shot down a Typhoon. "I don't get it. How did they time this so well?" It became a massive dogfight, just a lone squadron against an air fleet. I got behind a Foxhound as the Wyvern's missiles destroyed it.
"Kvant Eight shot down! Damn Razgriz!" One of the pilots reported
"Our allied planes will continue to deal with the unknown aircraft. For now, start evacuating the stadium." One of the stadium's personnel ordered "We'll evacuate the Vice President through the boiler room on the eastern side."
"Open the entrance gates." Another ordered "Get the people from the first level out of there."
"Once they're out, get them as far away as possible."
"Wardog, message is received. Evacuation has begun." Thunderhead reported as Chopper shot down a MiG.
"Well, yeah, but they can't get out that fast." Grimm analyzed
"Why'd the Vice President have to assemble so many people here? Geez, what a moron." Chopper complained as I can't help but smirk at his remark.
"Captain Davenport, shut your mouth and take out those enemies." Thunderhead retorted
"Aye aye, Sir. Now you're talking." We kept going at it as I launched four air-to-air missiles and destroyed four Flanker's. Grimm kept following a Typhoon and shot it down. Chopper shot down a Foxhound, while Edge shot down another Flanker.
"Just as we were briefed, there's only four of them." A Yuke pilot said
"That may be enough." Another answered "Those are the Razgriz after all."
"I feel like we were sent to die in some sacrifice." Edge thought
"Kei, don't be like that." I tried to bring her confidence in her. "Just stick with me, and you'll be fine." Grimm was evading like crazy, trying to shake off some bandits. Chopper supported him as they started targeting him. The stadium personnel commented that they blamed the warmongers for supporting this war and said that the Yukes can volunteer to kill the Vice President if they wish, because they want peace.
"Kid, this is Chopper. Are those reinforcements close?" He asked
"Almost. Just two minutes and thirty seconds until they arrive." I answered as I shot down a Flanker.
"Roger, I'll hang on a little longer." Edge got behind a Typhoon and shot it down
"We aren't in a good position here!" She said
"We'll make it!" I countered
"Captain Davenport, how much longer do you think we can hold them off!?" Grimm asked
"Till the very end, you idiot!" Chopper answered "We've got to protect these people!"
"We can't make it. There's too many of them!"
"Hang in there. Two more minutes until reinforcements arrive." Thunderhead reported
"Okay, I'll get ready to pass the baton!" Chopper said relieved
"Attention all units approaching November City. I guess they had us going, too…"
"What? Who is this?" Thunderhead asked
"That was a pretty good drill they got going." The pilot answered "Anyway, drill is over. Return to base."
"Wait! What are you talking about!?" Thunderhead asked again as we heard static "ECCM! Restore communication link!"
"The allied planes aren't coming! What's going on?!" Grimm asked
"Reinforcements are on the way! Just hang in there!" Thunderhead answered
"We won't hang in there in time!" I complained "It'll be over in two!" I shot done a Foxhound as the skies are clear for now.
"Dammit, none of the bases are responding to me!" Another static came in as a familiar voice chirped in.
"Attention all air force bases within the zone! This is Wing Commander Minna Dietlinde-Wilcke of the Republic of Ustio Air Force! A squadron is currently being engaged in combat and almost out of time! Send back-up immediately!"
"Who is…? Never mind. Roger, we'll send out all available assets immediately. Sit tight." One of the airbases answered
"Who… Who is that?" Edge asked as I smirked under my helmet
"Heh. Cavalry's arrived." I said quietly
"That wasn't supposed to happen. What's going on?" The pilot asked as the line cut dead again. On my radar, a new enemy wave appeared as we soon see aircraft that they are stealth units.
"Thunderhead, I'm seeing stealth aircraft mixed in with those fighters. I'm not sure if they are targeting us or the stadium." I reported to the AWACS
"They're dead set on crushing us, both physically and politically!" Chopper said
"Gorizont One, the sky isn't sanitized yet, but go ahead and begin your attack." The lead fighter ordered. I got behind one Foxhound as Edge started to attack the escorts.
"Roger Kvant." The stealth pilot answered "Commencing attack on the stadium." Edge and I got behind the stealth aircraft and began firing on them. I glanced over to the two Super Fulcrums, as Chopper received a direct hit.
"Damn!" Chopper said as his Fulcrum belched smoke
"Are you alright?" Grimm asked "You've been hit." Edge and I poured cannon fire on the stealth units.
"Ahh, it's nothing big." Chopper calmly answered "I'm not wounded. I ought to be able to keep this plane in the air a little longer. Besides, planes are expendable, right Kid?"
"They are, but it might cost you a lot." I answered
"Yeah. You're right, Kid." Edge and I destroyed the first wave, and we spotted the second wave visually as we raced over to meet them.
"Chopper, can you bail out?" Edge asked
"Well, that's kind of difficult right about now." Chopper answered "There's nothing but houses down below. I can't leave this plane yet. Kid, do you see any place where I can drop this plane?" I scanned the area as Edge engaged the stealth aircraft.
"Chopper, point your aircraft towards the stadium." I answered "That way, there will be no civilian casualties and not losing you in the process."
"That a girl, Kid." He complimented "Gives me some hope that I might just make it. I'd better wait for the crowd to evacuate some more though."
"Look, one of the Razgriz planes is trailing smoke." A Yuke pilot said as Edge unleashed a torrent of missiles and destroyed the last of the stealth aircraft.
"All enemy stealth aircraft, destroyed." Thunderhead said "We've called back the allied fighters."
"That's a relief, because I'm almost out of missiles." I said as I looked at the battered Super Fulcrum. It's still flyable, but Chopper is hanging by a thread.
"A little too late." My heart started to beat fast "There goes the radar. My circuits are toast."
"Look, forget about it, Chopper, just bail out. Please bail out!" Edge cried out
"Okay. Guess now's the time." He answered.
"This is Thunderhead. Captain Davenport, are you alright?"
"There's the stadium." He answered "I'm dropping the plane over there."
"Roger. Now get out. Please." I ordered him. I didn't see the canopy blow off. My heart began to beat even faster, until I heard those two words.
"I can't." He said "The electrical system's all messed up. The canopy won't blow. The ejection seat's probably not working either."
"Don't give up, Chopper!" Thunderhead encouraged him "Keep trying! Chopper!"
"Chopper… Please… I order you to come back alive!" I wanted him to survive dearly. My eyes were closed, awaiting the inevitable, until…
"Hey… Is…" My radio spiked as I heard my brother's voice.
"D… Daniel." I looked over to my radar and found a lone fighter surging in.
"I got this." I saw his F-15 coming towards Chopper. "Isara, give me the radio frequency to tune to Davenport's aircraft." I knew what Daniel was trying to do.
"Alright." After a few radio clicks, I gave the radio details to Daniel and he began to talk to him.
"Captain Davenport of Wardog Squadron." Daniel began "Are you receiving this message?"
"What? Who the hell are you?" Chopper asked
"Let's just say, I know your squad leader." He answered "Listen, what I want you to do is invert your aircraft. Do that and stay like that."
"What are you trying to get at?" He asked again "I mean… you knowing Kid in all."
"Do it!" Daniel ordered as I saw his Chopper's aircraft rolling upside down.
"Okay. Now what?"
"Minna. Do the honors." As if on cue, Daniel's Eagle fired on his aircraft, but precisely hitting the canopy. That caused it to blow off, and allowing Chopper to bail out as his Fulcrum, now empty, fell towards the stadium. I then saw a parachute deploying from him as he sailed down towards the city.
"Chopper! Thunderhead, Chopper bailed out successfully!" I ecstatically said
"What?! Yes! Thank God!" The AWACS cried out, relieved that Chopper bailed out.
"Hey, guys." Chopper said "I'll see you back at the base." Just as we breathe in relief, more aircraft came in.
"I hate to break it to you guys, we have incoming enemy aircraft." I pointed out. But, Daniel zoomed ahead and did something I didn't see him do. He's flying straight towards the enemy formation.
"Is that… It's the Demon Lord!" One Yuke pilot said
"What!? I don't..?!
"Who cares! We need to retreat!" The Yuke aircraft flew out of the airspace as reinforcements arrived in time to chase them out.
"Wardog Squadron." Daniel began "You did well today. I'm sure the brass would be happy to see that your squad is still intact. What I'm not happy about, is why we are fighting like this. I've been to a world where every nation, every soldier, and every civilian is united against a common foe. Maybe… Just maybe… I want you four to come with and see what I see. And Isara. Well done, little sister." His plane then banked away and returned home as I silently thanked him.
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Cipher's (Daniel Cross') P.O.V.
Kirwin Island, Osean Federation
December 6th, 2010
After the operation, Wardog was relieved to see Chopper again. He is placed on a week's leave after being shot down. That only left Isara, Edge, and Grimm to take care of the incoming operation, and that is to take the Cruik Fortress, the last line of defense standing between the Osean Army, and the Yuktobanian capital of Cinigrad. Last I heard, the place is now under the hands of the Oseans, giving them the open door to march to the capital.
But that's not the only thing that worried me. Ashley is concocting a plan to not let the Oseans win the war. That meant that he's hiring the Belkan Air Force to kill the three pilots. Our mission is simple. Defend Wardog, and bring them back home safely. But, only Isara can join.
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Vladimir Mountains, Union of Yuktobanian Republics
"Ascension, any sign of Wardog?" I asked as I was done refuelling with an Ustio tanker
"Just about. They're done refuelling." Ascension answered as I saw Isara and her squadron flying F-22 Raptors.
"I just hope that this aircraft's stealth capabilities work." I commented. The aircraft I am flying now is an F-15SE Silent Eagle. Ustio made the craft after receiving stealth technology from Osea after the Belkan War. They decided that the best candidate for their Eagle fleet is to upgrade their Strike Eagles.
"It should work, Daniel." Minna assured me "We haven't given up our hopes just yet."
"Yeah. I haven't given up either." I looked at the radar to find four peculiar looking F-15S/MTD's heading to Wardog. "Ascension, determine the numbers for the Belkan forces."
"Already on it." Ascension answered "It turns out that Ashley has hired Drossel and Meteor Squadrons to shoot down Wardog. That's odd. The Belkan Air Force is only comprised of Tomcat's and Flanker's since the last war. Here, they're armed with Berkut's and Black Widows."
"When did they acquire those aircraft? More importantly, I'm getting static." I said as Ascension activated ESM. "Thanks. I guess the Belkans have E-767's with them."
"Heads up, they're being attacked!" Ascension reported as I told Minna to activate weapons
"IS!"
"You must destroy them. We can't let them end this war." A Belkan pilot ordered
"Roger! We'll surround them and attack in all directions." Another answered
"I got a message from Field Marshal Wulfstan." Ascension said "You are under Code Azure. Knock them out of the sky."
"Roger that. Minna, get ready." I banked the Silent Eagle left and descended towards the Belkan fighters. "Ready the AMRAAM's."
"Daniel, lock on four Berkut's." Minna said "Fox Three!" With a push of a button, the AMRAAM's shot out of the Eagle and hit all four. "I hope they bail out. I haven't taken human lives before."
"I know. I'm sorry for letting you do this, Minna." I apologized as Minna assured me that it's okay
"Someone's attacking us! What the hell?!" One of the Belkan pilots realized
"Osea and Yuktobania is supposed to be wrapped around our finger!" I pulled out of the dive as they began to realize who they are fighting against. "Wait a sec. Blue wings, blue tail, a devil dog, a… devil… dog…" Two Black Widows have been shot down by Isara as everything became silent.
"IT'S HIM!" Another Belkan pilot reacted
"Schenze, this is Drossel Ten! We have encountered the Demon Lord! I repeat, we-" I shot down the Berkut, as the rest of the Belkan squadrons have been dealt with ease by Isara and her pilots. I pulled up next to Isara's Raptor as I began to radio her.
"Is, I need you to come with me. I'll give you the answers." I proposed.
"Blaze." Nagase said
"I'll be fine, Edge." Isara answered "I trust my brother with my life. Go ahead to Sand Island, I'll meet you back when I'm finished." With that, Isara followed me back to Kirwin while the rest went back to Sand Island.
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"Daniel, what is going on? Who were those people?" Isara asked as Luke gave her water. "Thanks."
"Is, do you remember when the 8492nd framed you?" I asked. She nodded straight away. "It turns out the 8492nd are actually the 229th Tactical Fighter Squadron, known as Grabacr. They are a Belkan aggressor squadron that were hired by the Osean military to bolster their numbers."
"So… Belka was behind all this?"
"I'm afraid so." I answered "I have no idea if the country is involved at all. If not, all leads point to North Osea Gründer Industries. They have supplied the Osean Army with their weapons. And the stealth fighters you saw, they exported military aircraft to Yuktobania as well."
"Why? Why would they do it?"
"Maybe revenge on what the two superpowers did. I'm surprised that they didn't even target Ustio and Sapin. After all, Chancellor Melchior is not directly involved in this, so he may be readying his army to fight the Grey Men."
"My squadron already knows about this. They have already gone to Sand Island and-"
"Uh… Daniel." Minna said as she was holding a sheet of paper "I've found something hidden in those files that we uncovered. It appears that there was a fifth member of the 8492nd. His name is Allen C. Hamilton, an Osean Captain that trained with the squadron." Isara's eyes widened with shock. Both Minna and I turned to her. "Is something wrong, Isara?"
"Captain Hamilton… He's the Adjutant Base Commander…"
"Where?"
"Sand Island." I realized that her squad mates are there right now. With him.
"Oh… shit. We got to go, now!" We ran over to our aircraft as we took off to where they are heading, but not before seeing the Kestrel launching a fighter. When we got to the air, a Tomcat pulled up alongside us.
"Galm One, Wardog One, this is Captain Snow, callsign Swordsman. Captain Andersen heard everything from you and he's sending me to falsify the deaths of your squad mates. I'll join you."
"Roger that, Swordsman." Isara answered "Thanks. Anyway, let's get to them!"
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Ceres Ocean
December 7th, 2010
"This is the 8492nd Squadron. We have a visual on the enemy. Engaging." We've found four BAE Systems Hawks, as they are evading Grabacr.
"It's them!" Grimm exclaimed as the Hawk aircraft was underneath them
"This is Thunderhead." The Osean AWACS answered "Roger 8492nd. Are you sure these guys are actually traitors?"
"Yeah." Ashley answered
"I don't believe it." Thunderhead was shocked at the revelation
"You could believe it all you want, but it's the truth." The Adjutant Base Commander said "8492nd, you are permitted to shoot down those planes."
"Roger. 8492nd intercepting now."
"Dumb AWACS!" Ascension reprimanded Thunderhead "He's been deceived as well."
"I have no idea that Hamilton was a member of Grabacr." Isara stated "But I do have to compliment him for being disciplined, along with him being on point. And not that pompous human of a Base Commander."
"Don't tell me." I answered her "You got Commander Perrault, didn't you."
"Yep. To make things even better, Hamilton had been promoted to Major and even deceived both Perrault and our AWACS."
"And better still, he has branded the entire squadron traitors and spies to the Osean Federation." I said "But, to the Republic of Ustio, you've been framed one to many." We caught up to the Grabacr Squadron, and readied our missiles.
"I'll fly ahead of you and Wardog." Snow said "When I give the signal, cease attacking and I'll falsify their deaths."
"Roger that, Captain." Isara answered. Snow pulled away from the two planes as we banked left to attack Grabacr. We locked onto the targets and soon began our attack. "Wardog One, Fox Two!"
"Galm One, Fox Two!" A string of four missiles homed in onto the four Belkan pilots as they jinked in all directions "Hey, Ashley! Remember me?! Fly away from the falsely framed pilots!" That brought Wardog time as they navigate through the island chain. It didn't take long before Ashley recognized my aircraft design.
"You… The Demon Lord of the Round Table…? I thought you went missing after Operation Battle-Axe." Ashley said as he evaded my Vulcan rounds
"Apparently, I wasn't missing. Turns out I am still flying." I answered back at him as I saw Isara fighting against his wingmen. "I'm sorry to say this, but the Republic of Ustio didn't declare war on Belka, but on your group."
"Well then, Demon Lord. Bring it on." Ashley challenged us. It brought the rest of Wardog Squadron time to evade their pursuers and it allowed Minna and I to work more in tandem. So far, she's working splendidly.
"Minna, chaff out!" I ordered as she dumped flares. "I'll try and go behind him, hold on!" I pulled back on the flight stick and did a cobra maneuver and got behind him. Minna fired the Vulcan cannon as it landed a few hits on Ashley's plane.
"Damn it!" I heard Ashley on the radio. He evaded every shot I threw at him. "Grabacr One to all craft, we're retreating. This isn't over, Demon Lord." His F-15S/MTD banked right as he and his squadron kicked in the afterburners and ran away from the airspace.
"Enemy squadron has retreated, Daniel." Minna said "Thank goodness."
"I can confirm it as well, Minna." Isara answered. Just then, Captain Snow pitched in.
"Alright guys. I'll go falsify their deaths. Keep scanning the skies if they make any sneaky moves." His F-14 Tomcat was soon in position.
"This is Thunderhead. What happened to the 8492nd? We're seeing the traitors again on radar."
"This is Swordsman." Captain Snow answered "So I just shoot them down?"
"Exactly." Hamilton answered darkly. His Tomcat soon flew behind the formation and sent them a message through signal light. It meant…
"Trust. Me. Bail Out. He wants us to bail out?" Grimm asked
"Let's say we trust him." A pilot answered "Genette, you first." We saw all four canopy's blown open as the pilots bailed and Swordsman shooting them down. As the last pilot bailed out, Thunderhead confirmed that all of the pilots have died. But we knew the whole truth. Ascension then contacted the Kestrel and started sending out its helicopter squadron to rescue Wardog.
"Alright. Head back to base." I ordered as we head for the island.
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OFS Kestrel, Kirwin Island Airbase
It took a while for the pilots to get used to living on an aircraft carrier, but since Andersen knew everything behind the scenes, he decided to intercept Wardog before any other military unit has a chance to shoot them down.
I saw Isara reuniting with her squad mates and she's surprised that they bought Chopper with them, who was in the medical ward at the time. Minna and I toured the Kestrel ourselves and found it astonishing that this vessel survived the Belkan War, and now, a war which never came to be. When I approached the four pilots of Sand Island, Isara hugged me a bit.
"Thank you for helping them, Daniel." She said as I returned the hug. When we pulled away from each other, Isara turned to the others. "Everyone. Meet my brother. Daniel Cross, also known as Cipher. The Demon Lord of the Round Table." All the pilots are surprised as I only uttered one word.
"Uh… Hi."
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I think the chapter may have tied with Sanya's chapter. Well, I digress. Wardog has been betrayed, and now working with the Kestrel and Ustio's Black Ops Squadron. You know, I wonder if the countries involved in the Belkan War have done anything in this one. For all I know, Sapin and Ustio are officially neutral in the war. But I decided 'Why not put a country in it?' So, I picked up Ustio.
For Belka's part, since they are rebuilding the country's military, they will be featured prominently. But there will be a Belkan Civil War. Don't know it? Well, here are the details.
The Belkan Civil War is fought between the Melchior Government, also known as the Loyalists, and the Grey Men or Belkan Revolutionary Army. And for the love of God, if you know the acronym, don't say. I already know. Like in the game, the Grey Men's objectives are to reunite the two Belka's through force. That's why, Gründer Industries are relying on the war economy of both Osea and Yuktobania for them to build up the Grey Men's armed forces.
The Belkan Army, however, are relying on equipment given by the Allies or own made weapons like Germany. And they are not the Belka from the last war as well. That's why the Circum-Pacific War will now be a four-way war between Osea, Yuktobania, the Grey Men, and the forces of Ustio and Belka, but in secrecy.
So, until the next chapter is produced, enjoy this one. Bye!
