File: ap_635325269463_custom-ae(...).jpg (2.04 MB, 2994x2290)

2.04 MB JPG

>>4919985
It would indeed appear that something big is occurring. When you storm past the doors of the HQ, the state of the place borders on the maniacal. Here and there, workers man equipment sending up loud 'clicks!', and more aids than normal are scrambling around the building. It's chaos, if a controlled kind.

And to your surprise Ernst is not in fact in his office. Instead, he is over at the immense radio apparatus that you had noticed before. And judging by the looks of him, he is exasperated...

As your team approaches, he holds up a finger. Rubbing the bridge of his nose, he sighs into the unwieldy receiver.

"As I have said...multiple times, I simply do not have time for this. The operation will proceed--"

A sudden burst of buzzing static catches him off guard.

*YOU CANNOT DO THIS TO ME!*, a familiar voice roars over the set. Hoffman's capital tinged tongue is noticeable anywhere, if only for the whine. *Stunz, I am a Field Marshal! I am ordering you to delay this nonsense! I will have you stripes you ingrate!*

Ernst gets a nasty smile on his face.

"I'm afraid that rank is irrelevant here. As it happens, we have received special permission to proceed regardless of your protests. Didn't I send you a copy?", he asks, innocently.

You hear Hoffman screaming at someone over the line. The exchange is filled with muffled profanities. Yikes.

*I was not informed! It was Vom Feldman wasn't it? Gah!* , the Field Marshal fires back. *I..I will see you in chains you bastard! Yes that is a promise. This isn't over! I--*

Ernst nods to a nearby trooper, who fiddles with some jobs. Immediately, Hoffman's voice becomes a series of unintelligible gurgling.

*--Unz, I wi--ush you!*

"I'm very sorry Field Marshal. It would seem that your equipment is defective. Have a pleasant day..."

*--ont you--!!!*

'Click!'

With a satisfied nod, Ernst turns to your and the others.

"Gentlemen. The time has come", he says, simply. You immediately feel your heart racing.

"The Merovians are deploying?", Braun asks. Ernst nods, before snatching a nearby chart and tracing the Huffendor with his finger.

"In heavy numbers. Intelligence and reconnaissance both confirm. Enemy air assets are swarming the area. We believe believe are pulling whatever they can manage. That is our cue. We have our Battle. Or, it has us, such is the case."

You nod.

"Tell us what to do sir"

He taps the map.

"We are mirroring their actions. I've ordered every possible unit available to respond to our call. The other bases are in full swing as well..."

File: file_2435564.jpg (313 KB, 1024x768)

313 KB JPG

>>4919999
He forms a fist, and you notice beads of sweat on the back of his hand. Odd. His eyes too..the baby blues are frantically scanning the map. Is he..is he afraid?

Braun clears his throat.

"And our personal assignment?", he asks.

Ernst nods. "I want you to find Boucher. I want you to kill him. Foudre Flight will be deployed. The primary job of Chimera will be to destroy them. Regardless of anything else that happen. They must fall. THAT, is your mission."

"And the other Sturmwings?", Sergei inquires. "Many have taken losses..."

"They will simply make do. Vampire and Werewolf are going. As are any number of Line Flights. Numbers matter, and we cannot afford to waste anyone."

"You can count on us!", Luigi barks. Ernst then motions back to the map. On it, you see a large number of markers.

"There are a few options..choose quick."
---
>Chimera will fly with the main war body. You will be needed in the center. Of course this would also make singling out your targets more difficult...

>Chimera will deploy on a flank, where we will have more options. On the downside, we will also be more isolated....


>Write in

>>4920002
>Chimera will deploy on a flank, where we will have more options. On the downside, we will also be more isolated....

>>4920024
>Chimera will deploy on a flank, where we will have more options. On the downside, we will also be more isolated....

After some brief debate, your team decides on taking an outward position in the main attack. While that certainly isolates you a bit, you'll also be avoiding the worst of the scrum.

Ernst nods.

"Excellent. You had best depart. There is no time to waste...and good luck. Good luck to all of you. Come back alive", he says, never taking his eyes off the map.

Braun claps him on the shoulder. He murmurs something in Ernst's ear, and the blond man nods. Braun turns back.

"Well, I don't plan on dying. Anyone else?"

"We won't let you down sir!", you say. "Chimera Flight will handle it. Foudre won't get out of this one!"

"They will remember Luigi's name!", the Big Guy booms. He is grinning widely under his shades. "I will crush them!"

"I'm sure they are quaking...", Sergei mutters sarcastically. Altho his lip threatens threatens turn up. You think.

"I'm depending on you. Good hunting."

"Sir!", you salute. You would do your best.
----
'WEEEEEEeeeeeWooooooo!'

The shrill sound is still wreaking havoc once you outside again. However, now a voice is calling out over speaker as well.

*All Fighters, scramble! This is not a drill! All Fighters, hear this! All Fighters--*

The staccato voice is still running on a loop even as Chimera Flight makes their way into the Hangar. On the strip, Fighters from various Flights lift off, and as you enter the building, you notice Dmitri giving his men the business.

"--ust keep moving! Dmitri wants all teams, and where is status report? We--ah! Chimera Flight!", He says, having noticed you all.

"Dmitri!", you say. "This is the big one. Are our birds ready?"

The Strelkayan slaps his meaty hands together with a pop, before rubbing them together. His wide grin gives you a good feeling. Granted, he has bacon...hah.

"Very much so!", he declares. Ushering you all forwards, he barks a command in his native tongue, which signals some workers to tear away a large series of drapes. Beneath...

"You are pleased? Da?", he asks, smugly.

And he has reason to be.

You remember, painfully, the absolute state that your Udet had been in after the last mission. Total wash. Now though, your new plane had been painted painted nicer then the last. The deep, cherry red paint job shone true, red like blood. And the angelic wings...pale as snow. The interlacing effect was excellent, and the feathers had been done in detail.

"You have outdone yourself Dmitri", you say with a grin. The big man scratches his belly with a laugh.

"Ahh, Dmitri is no painter. Artist? Yes. Now then, fly free! Dmitri shall root for you, Da!... Little time for rest though!", he says, as an aide comes up. Babbling in Strelkayan, the two fade away.

You are just about to mount up when you hear running feet on the ground. Turning, you see Werewolf Flight making their way in. Alpha, er, Paul, looks particularly vexed.

File: klein-balheim-121417.jpg (10 KB, 190x291)

10 KB JPG

>>4920151
"Oh boy...", Braun sighs, cleaning his glasses. Sure enough, Paul looks around until he spots your group. He and the others quickly make their way over, before stopping before you.

"You're all still here? Good", he says. "We aren't too late then."

You raise a brow.

"Too late for....?"

He nods, with a stern face. His squadmates look less than enthusiastic, but form up behind him.

"We know you're gunning for Boucher's head", Paul says, simply. Ah, well you figured what he was going for then.

He grips you by both shoulders, clearly intense. You blink in confusion.

"Uhhh"

"Braun", he says, glancing over your shoulder. "You will need all the help you can get. Let us form up with you. This is our fight too!"

Braun sighs.

"You do know you're supposed to be in the main battle formation, right?"

Wolf 4 steps up.

"Yes, but we just figured...more planes are better than fewer? Right?"

Sergei snorts, and crosses his arms.

"And who will take your place in the line of battle? Pray tell."

Luigi rubs his chin in thought.

"It may not be a bad idea, my Captain", he says. "Our planes, they are already going to be low on support..."

"--which is the point", Sergei inserts. "Fewer planes will draw less attention. We are going for Foudre, not plebian grunts."

Braun looks uncertain.
----
>Ah come on Captain. You know they're just going to show up anyways. Better to have a pre set plan.

>Ernst...laid out a plan. You feel for the guy's passion really but you need to stick to it.

>What if only Alpha came with us? That's a compromise, right?

>write in

>>4920165
>Ernst...laid out a plan. You feel for the guy's passion really but you need to stick to it.
Plus we don't even know were Bloucher is going to be.

>>4920165

>There is no guarantee Boucher will be on our flank. With Werewolf in the center, it increases all of our chances of finding him. Then we can vector in and end him. Besides, what if he doesn't take the bait and instead goes for our center to break our lines? With you there, he'll meet his end.

I'm gonna say that >>4920391 wins. That said, >>4920462 is definitely doable as well.

Time to reduce the chances of stupidity!
---
Hmmm, you knew this was really important to Paul and the Wolves. This fight was personal for them.

That said, you also knew that simply telling them no was not likely to do much. You had best handle this tactfully if you wanted to avoid a disaster....

"Paul...", you say, sympathetically. " to start with there's no guarantee that Boucher will even take our bait. Not to mention, what happens if he doesn't? And you are with us? Do you honestly want to see the center to completely collapse simply because you wanted some Revenge?"

He frowns, in thought.

Ok, stay on this train of thought...
--
>1d20!

Rolled 13 (1d20)

>>4920472

Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>4920472

Fuck this new captcha. It's utter shit.

One more?

Also yes it is indeed shit.

Rolled 3 (1d20)

>>4920551

File: Scene-from-The-Red-Baron--001.jpg (9 KB, 460x276)

9 KB JPG

>>4920527
>>4920540
>>4920551
>>4920622
>18 success!

"....there's no telling what might happen out there", Paul protests. "You might need back up. That's a fact."

Luigi let's out a ringing laugh.

"Backup? Us? Hah! It shall be the enemy who need their allies my friend!"

"Not to mention...", you continue, "He might just come to you anyways. The man wants blood. And he does seem to have it out for you guys too if you haven't noticed."

Paul glances over at Braun, frowning.

"Is this your opinion too?"

"I think Stanislaw is speaking sense. We don't even know how the Merovians will be coming in. It could be that you wind up with your wish anyways", Braun says with a shrug. "Ernst has a plan for a reason. We should comply."

After a few tense seconds, Paul deflates.

"...fine. But if you DO need help--"

"We'll be in touch", Braun finishes. Nodding, Paul scoots by you, followed by his squadmates. Wolf 4 lingers long enough enough give you an approving smile. Oh?

"Thank you", he mumbles, before heading off heading over to the Voss crafts. It would seem that they were sticking with their normal rides. Fair enough.

"Hmph. Cheery start", Sergei says. "And I must fly in a Udet on top of it. Disconcerting, to be quite honest."

"Hey", you say, nudging him. "We can't all have experimental planes all the time you know. I'm sure you'll get your fancy pants plane back soon enough."

He mumbles assent.

"Right!", Braun declares. "We had better head out now. See you boys in the air."

You nod. It was time.
---
On the runway, more planes were taking off by the second. It would appear that the base of the entire contingent was heading out just as Ernst said. You take note of the Ferrets and Werewolf. The latter go flying up like bats out of hell.

Hmm.. it seems their fighting spirit hadn't been dulled by Braun's refusal. That was good for the mission. Werewolf were a solid unit. They just needed to be handled with tact. And charm.

The radio buzzes to life.

*Th-this is Control!*, a feminine voice sounds over the coms. Ingrid? "Chimera flight you are..cleared to ascend. Godspeed and good luck. Return victorious please! We are counting on you all!*

*Roger Control*, Braun replies. *Lay out the booze and plates. We'll be bringing home the bacon.*

As the runway clears before you, the members of Chimera Flight sound off. It would seem they are all good and ready to go. They report over the radio.

*This is Claus Braun, launching!*

*Luigi Pesani here, heading out!*

*Count Nikolevksy, I'm going*

Finally, it's your turn. Your propeller accelerates to a roaring 'brrrrrrrrrr' as you make your final preparations. Let's see. Ammo, check. Fuel, check. Flaps seemed to be working...alright!

You crack your neck.

"This is Stanislaw Krol! Clear the Way!"

Your red Udet thunders into the sky, following your companions. It wouldn't be long now. Though every minute felt practically like an hour...

You'd simply have to hold it in.

"Boucher...", you mumble.

File: 626a3341cf76b9899d116840f(...).jpg (258 KB, 1061x900)

258 KB JPG

>>4920641
If you thought the scale of the ground launches had been impressive, then you didn't know how to scale what you saw as you approached the Valley. In the distance, off to the northwest, loomed embattled Lothren. The city stood proud and defiant, having lasted all of this time to hold up Konerland's 'inevitable advance'. Familiar. As was the valley.

What was not, was the virtual air army making its way across the sky. Granted, you had known that the scale of this operation was gonna be something else. But this was a swarm in truth. Of course being on the near edge of that you are unable to get a full grasp of the situation.

*A whole Air Front come together", Braun says, his voice tinged with pride. "Not just Baldir Boys, or our neighbors. Ernst got some guys recalled from the north too. This is the real deal, Rook.*

You nod to nobody in particular. And all for the fate of a single city. Wow.

The radio barks static out.

*--is is Herald. We have confirmed Merovian forward patrols over the valley. We believe the enemy means to strike us with their full strength. I repeat, the presence of the enemy is confirmed.*

That would be your forward reconnaissance then. Ernst insisted on screening the advance. Good idea.

*Alright boys, listen up*, Braun states, once you get a good bit along. *I'm tired of being surprised by Foudre, myself. We need a plan going into this. And we need to be smart.*

*We are already smart!*, Luigi protests.

*We is plural. That implies things.*, Sergei replies. You roll your eyes. You were honestly starting to think that Sergei's sarcasm was just the way he showed affection. Yeh, you'd go with that.

*In ANY case*, Braun continues. *We need to decide what our initial moves are. We already chose this far flank. That isolates us. At the same time, anyone coming for us will face the same.*

You nod.

"What are the options sir?"

*Alright...so..*

You debate.
---
>Chimera decides to bide their time on the flank. You have one mission only. Boucher must be located and destroyed. Or baited, possibly.

>You will of course keep to the flank, but whose to say you can't contribute to the main fight at all? Chimera will be opportunists in deployment.

>once the enemy is located loudly blare a challenge to the Black Lightning over general frequency. That's probably the quickest way for him to find you.

>I guess that's a lull. All for tonight folks. Stay excellent and thanks!

Slow day. Gonna have me a Brisket for lunch.

>>4920660
>>You will of course keep to the flank, but whose to say you can't contribute to the main fight at all? Chimera will be opportunists in deployment.

File: 269b6662a5aa5cf74e4f9a96c(...).jpg (797 KB, 1000x667)

797 KB JPG

>>4921400
>You will of course keep to the flank, but whose to say you can't contribute to the main fight at all? Chimera will be opportunists in deployment.

Above you, the grey and gloomy sky hangs like a solemn curtain.

In the end, you all decide to strike a good balance. Just because hunting down Foudre Flight is your main goal, that doesn't mean you can't make attacks of opportunity as well...

*Alright then. Keep it tight guys. And eyes peeled. I've got a running pool on who gets first eyes on the enemy,* Braun says.

You nod.

*And Stanislaw...*

"Sir?"

*Don't let him get into your head. Whatever is wrong with him....you gotta believe it ends today*, Braun states.

You tighten your grip. In Foudre Flight, you knew, there were twin anomalies. The Phantom's abilities seemed not much different from your own. Albeit, he was clearly more versed with them.

Boucher though...even the thought of the void of hate that the man gave off gave you a tingle. Not out of fear, really. More out of the wrongness of it all. Whenever the Black Lightning's mind rubbed against your own, it was only fire and anger and insanity. A pity. You didn't wish that madness on anyone.

You hope he thanks you after his death.

*Bah!* Luigi laughs, *Our friend Stanislaw has good superpowers! He will be fine!*

"They aren't...superpowers", you sigh. And it wasn't like you could confide in anyone but these guys. Like seriously, we're you just supposed to tell some doctor you could hear voices? Feel things? Psh.

In any case, you scan the sky. Best to stay alert. The atmosphere is becoming increasingly gloomy. Seems like the Merovians were attacking right as bad weather was moving in.

An omen?
--
>1d10!

Rolled 7 (1d10)

>>4921422

Rolled 7 (1d10)

>>4921422

>>4920660

>You will of course keep to the flank, but whose to say you can't contribute to the main fight at all? Chimera will be opportunists in deployment.

Rolled 6 (1d10)

>>4921422

>>4921426
>>4921437
>>4921455
>6 success!
---
Just as the attack force crests the Huffendor, you see dots on the horizon. For a few moments, that's it, but your instincts make you reach for the radio.

"I see them!", you cry out. You follow the call with a few markers. Sure enough, those dots soon increase in number and scope until it becomes clear that it can only be the enemy attack force. However...something seemed off.

Thin?

*Be advised*, you hear a voice call out over the radio. Herald again. *The enemy is within visual range. We believe we have them outnumbered. I repeat--*

As the LRRC rattles off, you find yourself scratching your chin in thought. Perhaps this was just a first wave? You ask Braun as much. The radio buzzes back.

*Could be. A bit stupid if that's the case. We can just destroy them piecemeal. Still, I wouldn't underestimate them*, he responds. *Be on guard.*

Fair enough. You'd fought the Merovians enough to know that they were good opponents. And crafty. Still, you suppose this could be a blessing. A bit of a tactical mishap? Overzealous pilots?

The attack force wide signal sounds off again, as a familiar voice speaks up.

*This is Alpha. The enemy line is fragile and fewer. Formations 2 and 3, Mass Arrowhead. Let's give these Frogs something to write home about!*, Paul snaps.

*Vampire 2 here...*, a growling voice replies. *Formation 2 lead agrees. Forwards. Let's bury these bastards.*

*Formation 3 lead*, replies a crisp voice that you don't recognize. *This is Cyclops 1. All planes following close. Glory to the Republic. Let's do this.*

You don't know Cyclops Flight, although judging by the name they are probably one of the Sturmwings that got shifted by Ernst's last minute calls. Looks like they got a slot up front. You knew that each of the individual formations within the wider Attack Force were being fronted by a Sturmwing when able.

Looking over across the sky, you see chunks of the force split off and speed ahead. With the Sturmwings go a slew of Line Flights. A good part of the main fighter body is left behind, but the guys up front seem intent on a quick kill.

*Eager! I like their spirit!*, Luigi says. *It is good to thirst for the fight, Si!*

*They should have formed Crescent...*, Sergei corrects. *They could have engulfed the enemy.*

*Ahhh, but that wouldn't be as flashy or quick!*, Braun replies. *Rook, you getting a signal yet? Any pains?*

You shake your head. Everything was normal so far. At least as normal as it got....

"Nothing sir", you say. "Although I'm not really sure how range works with this. They might have to be closer."

The radio buzzes.

*Well, it won't be long now. If this IS all they are bringing, well, maybe Boucher isn't coming after all. Hmm.*

Was that possible? Could Ernst and the others have simply shot their bolt? In that case though, you would have to wonder where the rest of the deployed Merovians were. Still, nothing you could really do.

You had your mission.

Rolled 19 (1d20)

>>4921551

File: 1434584169204.jpg (139 KB, 964x653)

139 KB JPG

Rolled 87 (1d100)

>>4921561
>>4921551
*This is our Valley! Crush them!*

It is not long before the two forces smash into one another. While from you vantage point on the flank, you can hardly get a great account, when it happens, the two encroaching bodies seem to melt into one another.

The Arrowhead slams into the battle-line of the Merovians, and the skies above the Huffendor erupt into cataclysm. Whilst individual details elude you from this distance, you can make out the forms of planes falling down to earth. A fee orange explosions mark particularly fiery ends. Then it collapses into a swarm of tangled wood and lead and death.

The rest of the attack force continues at a normal pace, fairly formless. You imagine they will try and finish the job that the the forward attackers are starting. By weight of planes.

But still nothing. For a few moments there, as the lines clashed, you thought there head been...something. But it had vanished within seconds. Odd.

For a short while, Chimera Flight hangs on the flank, working to both keep an eye out...and for a chance. And it seems that your decision is made for you.

*We have dance partners*, Sergei announces. You look over.

From the chaos of the battle, a flight of fighters bursts free, gunning hard for your position. Not Fonck type craft, no. The shape was wrong. Bishops!

Jorvak pilots?

The radio crackles with life.

*That color...your the one who did for the Swarmlord!*, one of the enemy pilots says. His Koner barely carries an accent.

*We are getting knighthood for this!*, another one calls out. *And the bounty!*

Your mind goes back to Gottling. So, they were here for Locust Point then? Might as well indulge them!

*Straight to the point...*, Braun says. *Alright then. Chimera Flight! Engage!*

Your planes turn towards the foe. It looks like the only real option is a joust...

So be it.
---
>1d10!

Rolled 9 (1d10)

>>4921593

....2 more?

Rolled 9, 6 = 15 (2d10)

>>4921813

File: images (1).png (3 KB, 200x200)

3 KB PNG

Rolled 10, 2, 7, 9, 6, 8, 6, 6, 6 = 60 (9d10)

>>4921905

File: JorvakEmpirex.png (5 KB, 600x400)

5 KB PNG

Rolled 5, 3, 1, 7, 4, 9, 6, 10, 4, 8, 7, 10 = 74 (12d10)

>>4921907

File: 44833388e31f7c17ddbe20404(...).jpg (92 KB, 1024x757)

92 KB JPG

Rolled 10 (1d20)

>>4921907
>>4921912
>6 success!!

You breathe in and out as you approach. An aerial joust was a matter of timing. You squeeze the trigger.

'Tatatatatatata!'

Your eyes go wide as machine gun bullets rattle off. They certainly did not hit as hard as Dmitri's old cannon, but that thing was totaled with your old fighter.

You glance the enemy fighter craft, the bullet striking it as you fly past each other. The bogey's own bullets go wide, as he speeds past. Elsewhere, your companions have mixed results.

"Damnit! He hit me!", Braun growls. It's not bad but it's something. Luigi and his own opponent seem to trade wounds, while Sergei gets the better of his Boshop of choice.

Overall, the result is rather unspectacular. It was clear then that this was not going to be settled in the first pass...

*Let's show these guys our roar!*, Braun declares. He takes his udet into a pulling roll, clearly intent on getting back at his foe. Luigi does much the same, his own battle cry coming over the waves.

Sergei, however, soars wide through the air. There is a slight angle to his move, and you think he means to go for a flanking attack.

However, the 4 Bishops were clearly not chastened. They split into two pairs, with their Lead and a wingman splitting off one way, and the other two the other way. Hmmm...alright then. Did they want to make this a pairs competition?

Now then...as for you?
---
>Charge with Braun and Luigi. 3 vs 2! Fear our wrath!

>Move with Sergei on the left. If they want to dance a duet, you can play that game!

>Try and gain height. More height. That should give you some room to work with and an advantage to boot!

>write in
---

>That's all tonight anons. Stay excellent and get those votes in! Thanks for playing.

>>4921959
>>Move with Sergei on the left. If they want to dance a duet, you can play that game!

>>4921959
>Move with Sergei on the left. If they want to dance a duet, you can play that game!

>>4921959
>>Move with Sergei on the left. If they want to dance a duet, you can play that game!

File: 1994c8b0e99e8a7176bb6ef8b(...).jpg (97 KB, 700x975)

97 KB JPG

>>4921990
>>4922162
>>4922165
>>Move with Sergei on the left. If they want to dance a duet, you can play that game!

Sergei was gonna need support! Wuth q purr, your Udet banks into a turn as it maneuvers. You take up the piece.

"Sergei! Let's do this. If they want to dance a duet, Let's oblige!", you say.

It buzzes back.

*Da. Don't slow me down.*

You watch as the pair of Bishops make their way in a wide arc. Worst comes to worst you can always have another head on shootout. But that wasn't ideal.

As your Udet meets up with Sergei's, you ready yourself. You would just have to outfly these guys!
--
>1d10!

Rolled 4 (1d10)

>>4922402

2 more?

Rolled 5, 2 = 7 (2d10)

>>4922495
....

File: chimera-silhouette-backgr(...).jpg (81 KB, 934x534)

81 KB JPG

Rolled 1, 7, 6, 6, 8, 8, 3, 10, 1 = 50 (9d10)

>>4922635

File: red-rosette-with-france-f(...).jpg (67 KB, 626x626)

67 KB JPG

Rolled 2, 4, 1, 1, 2, 9, 1, 8, 1, 9, 8, 1 = 47 (12d10)

>>4922641
Gay captcha

File: images (16).jpg (6 KB, 259x194)

6 KB JPG

>>4922641
>>4922665
>1,1 enemy crit!
>Luigi Light Damage!
>Stanislaw Light Damage!
>Sergei At Medium Damage!
>Bogey 1 and 4 at Light Damage!

As you zoom forwards with Sergei, you both work to find a good angle of approach. It isn't easy, as the enemy craft make you work for it. Still, the superior speed of your planes starts to pay off.

You enter range and--what!

'Tatatata!'

You desperately thumb the trigger as the Bishops break up and down. It looks like it had been a feint on their end. One of the craft heads over you and Sergei, letting loose with a burst.

'Tatatatata!'

You flinch as bullets slams into your Udet, although you avoid the worst. Sergei though...the second Bishop pulls upside down as it passes beneath him, raking his underbelly with fire. The Udet visibly flinches and a thin spurt of smoke begins to waft from it. Looks like it hit something important.

*Gah! Cyka!*, Sergei growls.

Elsewhere, the planes Braun and Luigi were chasing have also turned the tables. Cutting apart much like your own Bogey's had, they manage to come in at the side angle and rake Luigi. Your friends come off the worst of it. However, Braun manages to get off a burst that sees the Bogey Leader away. He and his partner go wide, jostling for position.

*Is the Bloody Red Angel?*, one of the Jorvak pilots mocks.

Hmmm, this isn't going according to plan..
---
>Sergei, team move! U-turn Twister!

>Go wide and rely on your better craft. You know you can get a good shot on them if you just keep trying.

>You don't have time for these games. Artificially call on the Itch. Risk or no.

>write in

>>4922708
Actually I did that wrong. Bogey 4 is also at medium.

>>4922708
>Sergei, team move! U-turn Twister!

>>4922725
>Sergei, team move! U-turn Twister!

Hah! Well you weren't going to let that insult slide...

"Sergei!", you say. Let's show these guys what some real teamwork looks like!"

The radio buzzes back.

*What did you have in mind?*

You remember all of thpse fancy moves that Foudre Flight are fond of. One in particular comes up. Their bobbing and weaving into a single attack. You lay it out as quick as you can.

*Hmph. Worth a shot.*, he grunts. He brings his Udet around, and you angle your own. This was a matter of skill and coordination...
--
>1d10!

Rolled 7 (1d10)

>>4922816
Sorry for not being more active QM, but I work on the weekends

Rolled 7 (1d10)

>>4922816

Rolled 1 (1d10)

>>4922816

>>4922819
No biggie. I'm just glad people like to play.

File: UAJm6xvP_400x400.jpg (10 KB, 312x312)

10 KB JPG

Rolled 6, 5, 4, 9, 6, 7, 3, 3, 4 = 47 (9d10)

!!!

File: 71-4Bfa00ML._AC_SL1500_.jpg (99 KB, 1500x725)

99 KB JPG

Rolled 4, 3, 6, 4, 5, 1, 6, 10, 9, 3, 4, 4 = 59 (12d10)

>>4922855

Rolled 11 (1d20)

...

File: swirly-scribbled-arrow-sv(...).png (76 KB, 840x859)

76 KB PNG

Rolled 3 (1d100)

>>4922855
>>4922857
>1 autsuccess!
>Sergei At Medium Damage
>Luigi At Medium Damage
>Bogey 3 At Heavy Damage
>Bogey 4 At Critical Damage
>U-Turn Twister!

'Vrooooooom!'
The fighter responds to your maneuver, tipping back and up. It is hungry for battle. You can share that view!

Your and Sergei's Udets interlace with one another. Shooting across the sky, your two planes Bob and Weave much as Foudre had done. Granted, its not quite as pristine, but it works.

And it catches the enemy totally flat footed.

*H-hey!*

The Bishops try to respond, but they seem confused, and rather than go for either of you, they hesitate at your charge. Their loss.

Your gain.

"How's this!", you yell, thumbing the trigger. The guns bark.

'Tatatatatatatata!'

'Tatatatatatata!'

You and Sergei catch one of the Bishops in a crossfire, crippling it. A gout of fire shoots out as the plane desperately turns off and out, gunning the engine. He is clearly running away now.

His companion is luckier, but your shooting is spot on. The bullets strike true, and you see the Bishop roll away to avoid the worst. You've got em on the run.

However, Braun and Luigi are hanging in the balance. They are engaged in a desperate turning fight. Luigi slips up, and one of the Bishops gets a few bursts in.

Hmmm...
---
>Work with Sergei and finish your remaining Bogey.

>Assist Braun and Luigi!

>Run down the cripple.

>>4922896
>>Assist Braun and Luigi!

Rolled 11 (1d20)

>>4923107
>>Assist Braun and Luigi!

Hmmm, Sergei can handle this guy. Luigi and the captain need your help! Your Udet growls as you roll off, redirecting yourself towards their opponents.

It looks like you will have a good shot if you can make a fine approach!
---
>1d10!

Rolled 1 (1d10)

>>4923134

2 more? Get that crit!

Rolled 3 (1d10)

>>4923134
I would post more but my work doesn't allow us to have our phones in the building

Rolled 8 (1d10)

Qm powers go!

File: DUl0A6uVQAAVWKU.jpg (102 KB, 1200x1200)

102 KB JPG

Rolled 5, 5, 10, 7, 9, 1, 3, 4, 9 = 53 (9d10)

>>4923282

Rolled 7, 1, 7, 4, 10, 4, 5, 9, 8, 9, 4, 5 = 73 (12d10)

>>4923303

File: nose art on Farman 40 WW1.jpg (66 KB, 553x620)

66 KB JPG

>>4923303
>>4923305
>Bogey 3 at Critical Damage
>Bogey 1 at Medium Damage
>Bogey 2 at Heavy Damage
>Bogey 4 Fled

You make it in time. Coming in hot, you open fire just as Braun makes the mistake of letting the enemy craft get inside his blind spot.

'Tatatatatatata!' Barks the machine gun.

You instantly see wood shred off as the Bishop tears away. The other also fairs quite poorly. Luigi finally seems to get his bearings, letting loose with a thunderous barrage as soon as he gets a shot. Combined with your own fire, the second Bogey bolts away as well, withering.

*Thanks Rook. A wily one.*

"No problem Captain!"

*I've got you now! You peasant!*, Sergei barks. You turn your head and see that indeed, he seems on the verge of victory. Now alone with his wingman fled, the Bishop he is tailing is smoking heavily. It won't be long now. The pilot seems desperate to make a retreat.

Well, this was a nice shift. It looked like the battle was now going quite happily in your favor. The Bishops were clearly off their footing. They looked to be making a careful exit. It seems you'd chastened their delusions of grandeur.

You see Luigi send his Garibaldi directly after one of the Bishops. The less wounded one of course. He wanted the better fight. Braun goes after the Bogey Lead, intent on finishing it.


You think quickly. Above you, a distant rumble of thunder beckons. Within a few seconds you feel a raindrop puttering on your nose....hmph. You could handle a little bit of rain.
---
>Work with Braun to take out their Lead!

>Back up Luigi!

>write in

>>4923327
>Back up Luigi!

>thats all for this session folks! See on you on Friday and stay excellent! Thanks for playing! Get those votes in! Konerland needs...you!

(Ominous boss stage sounds)

>>4923327
>>Work with Braun to take out their Lead!

>>4923327
>Work with Braun to take out their Lead!

>>4923327
>>Work with Braun to take out their Lead!

>>4923373
Thanks for running QM I am hype for our final fight against Boucher

File: e66929ae0f3ad270ffbf3b358(...).jpg (12 KB, 236x232)

12 KB JPG

>>4923337
>>4923531
>>4923777
>>4924356
>Work with Braun to take out their Lead!


Best to cut the head from the snake, as it were. You put some more juice into the engines, and the Udet soars forwards. Beside you, Braun's own craft. With the navy blue paint job, and the black wing stripes having something of the tiger about them, it could hardly be more different from your own ride.

But it was still deadly.

"Let's end this guy Captain!", you say. A few raindrops pitter-patter down on the cockpit. The radio buzzes back.

*Read my mind Rook*

You close in for the kill...
--
>1d10!

Rolled 1 (1d10)

>>4929418

2 more? I'll give it a few more then we'll have to move on.

Rolled 9, 7 = 16 (2d10)

Rolled 9, 4, 9, 8, 1, 7, 6, 1, 2 = 47 (9d10)

>>4929673
!!!!!
(Chimera noises)

Rolled 3, 7, 2, 9, 9, 9, 10, 1, 6 = 56 (9d10)

>>4929673
(Frog sounds)

>>4929649
I am a shiny golden god

File: 300px-Rumpler_Taube_monoplane.jpg (18 KB, 300x300)

18 KB JPG

Rolled 93 (1d100)

>>4929676
>>4929678
>1 autosucces!
>Bogey 1 bails! Bogey 3 shot down. Bogey 2 shot down!
---

Given that it is 2 vs 1, it does not take long before the Bishop is open to a shot of some kind. It's just a matter of focus...

There!

'Tatatatatata!'
'Tatatatatatata!'

You and Braun both open up, but the captain's shots go wide. However, your own bullets seem to find their mark. You see smoke and sparks shoot up as the Bishop desperately rolls to shake you.

*Damnit! Just not my day....*, you hear a Jorvak voice declare over the radio. You and Braun close in...Then the pilot leaps from his craft, dropping down! You see a parachute pop up. Hah. You guess boldness only went so far.

You see a red flowering in the corner of your eye as the bogey Sergei had been dealing with goes up in flame. The burning bird enters a death spin as his Udet triumphantly flies past it.

Luigi has similar results. His Garibaldi is a good craft, and his fire is accurate. Soon enough you see oily, black smoke pour from the engine, as the bird begins to lose altitude fast. Clearly having had enough of it, the pilot wisely bails.

And with that, you have a moments peace. However viewing the fighting across the valley, you see that the results are bloody and mixed. Here and there, both sides are failing. If the Fliegermacht is winning at all, it is only because of raw numbers.

And when the second wave crashes into the battle-swarms, you certainly hold that advantage.

*Damn...thats a pickle...*, Braun remarks, as Chimera reforms.

"Sir?"

*It doesn't look like we were able to break their line totally. The second wave was supposed to finish this. But the whole thing is an exercise in awkwardness...*

*The Merovians fight bravely!*, Luigi says. *This we know. It is good to have such foes. They keep you sharp!*

Part of you, the pilot inside, agrees with that statement. Still.. the fighting was probably only going to get bloodier.

'Boom! Crash! Boom!'

You look up, as the pattering of rain begins to speed up into a proper fall. A lightning bolt streaks across the distance. A storm was moving in for sure....

*What now?*, Sergei asks. *Do we stay on the outside? Boucher still isn't here.*

*Hmmm....I'd rather we didn't burn all our ammo. We'll need it. I think we could do with some tlc myself.*

The gloomy sky beckons.
---
>Encourage another attack of opportunity!

>Take this chance to rest yourselves. Maybe work some of the damage off? Some of it might be more cosmetic than you think...

>write in

>>4929765
>>Encourage another attack of opportunity!

Rolled 11 (1d20)

>4929809
Aggression. I can dig it. Regaining HP is for chumps!
---
>>Encourage another attack of opportunity!

Well you were on a roll! There was no way you could stop now!

"Ah come on Captain! Not like we have anything else to do right now! Let's try and find what there is to find...", you say.

*Ah, hell with it. Why not. Just keep your eyes out. Remember why we're here. And play it tight*, Braun responds.

'Patter Patter Patter
'Boom! Crash!'

Hmm...the rain wasn't letting up. If it got any thicker it wouldn't be easy to see what was going on in the main fight...

Still, you look for the vulnerable or the weak...a chance to be of aid.
---
>1d10!

Rolled 2 (1d10)

>>4929972

2 more?

Rolled 5 (1d10)

>>4929972

Rolled 6 (1d10)

>>4930083

File: attachment_92345100.png (35 KB, 500x500)

35 KB PNG

Rolled 7 (1d20)

>>4929984
>>4930124
>>4930253
>2 success!!

After a bit of scanning, you finally pick up your target. A Voss goes bursting from the main clash, engines afire. Not one of the Wolves, thankfully, but it's clear that the pilot is in trouble.

*AHHHHH! Help! I can't shake them!*, he cries out over the radio. 'Them', seems to be a pristine pair of newer Foncks, who are harshly working the guy. It doesn't look like he can take much more.

However, before you can swoop into action, you notice something else. A tingling in the back of your mind....w-what? You give it a moment of concentration as the rain pecks at your thoughts. Er...no, there's no mistaking it!

It's coming from one of those pilots!

You are about to call out your suspicions, before the radio erupts of its own accord.

*My Captain!*, Luigi bellows. *We have company once more. Hah!*

Turning your head, you see a pair of yellow Foncks swooping through the air towards you. They seem to have a purpose in mind. And it clearly involves closing with you. Hm....
----
>You will save the friendly pilot! The others can handle the Flankers!

>You will deal with your flankers personaly. The others can bail out the friendly pilot.

>Split evenly! 2 for 2!

>write in

>>4930284
>>Split evenly! 2 for 2!

File: nieuport-17-3.jpg (14 KB, 290x186)

14 KB JPG

>>4930300
>>Split evenly! 2 for 2!

Huh. Well, no time to wait!

"Luigi!", you say. "On me! Let's go help out that fellow! Bring the pain!"

The radio buzzes back.

*Haha! Yes! I am with you my friend!*

His Garibaldi zooms alongside your Udet as you move forwards. There was little time to waste. Braun and Sergei also break off, weaving for advantage.

*You leave these bozos to us then!*, the Captain says. *They won't last long.*

As you approach, the feeling begins to grow sharper. However you can still not pinpoint which pilot is giving out the feeling....you shake your head.

In any case, you needed to get this right. That Voss can't take much more.

*H-hey! You there! Help!*
---
>1d10!

>thats all tonight folks! Get those rolls in and stay excellent!

Rolled 6 (1d10)

>>4930405
>stay excellent!

Rolled 10 (1d10)

>>4930405

Rolled 6 (1d10)

>>4930405

Rolled 4, 5, 9, 3, 6, 3 = 30 (6d10)

!!!

File: 157_d.jpg (111 KB, 755x330)

111 KB JPG

Rolled 9, 1, 8, 2, 6, 4 = 30 (6d10)

>>4930850

File: images (1) (1).jpg (11 KB, 225x225)

11 KB JPG

Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>4930850
>>4930854
>10 auto fail!
>1 Luigi auto success!
>Pilot saved. Good on you.
>Bogey 1 Light Damage

As you close range, you look for the shot. With a calm breath, you pull the trigger. Unfortunately, it seems like the rain may have blurred your judgment a bit.

'Tatatatatata!'

The bullets fly directly over the shoulder of the leading Bogey. However, the sudden appearance of your attack seems to give him a moments doubt. Using that opening, the harrased Friendly rolls hard to the left, successfully removing himself from the enemy sights.

'Tatatatatatata!'

Then there is Luigi. His bullets fly true, and you register the impact on the second of the enemy planes. The Bogey veers off, stunned. As he does so, however, you clench your fists. A thin pain pokes at the back of your mind.

Him? So it was this Merovian...

*Th-thanks! That was a close one!*, the Friendly Voss calls over.

"Don't mention it!", you reply. "How goes the big battle?"

*Uh..harsh. The frogs are putting up a good fight! I got stuck with those two guys and...yeh. Oh man. Looks like your buddies are in it tight!*

You see what he means. Braun and Sergei are engaged in a running fight with the two Yellow Foncks. While you would rather be in the Udets, it's clear the new arrivals are not amateurs...

*Hey! I'll help you out!*, the Voss pilot says. *Be back soon! Hold the fort.*

Before you can object, his wounded plane veers away in the rain, back towards the edges of the dog pile over the valley. Huh.

You have your own issues.

Through the rain, you can see the two Bogeys you batted off making their way broad stroke across the sky. It looked like they weren't entirely sure how to handle the situation. Plus, you are still getting that dull ache...

'Pitter Patter Pitter Patter'

Hm...you glance up, and the the last of the blue sky us fading behind the gloomy, cancerous clouds.
---
>Move to assist Braun and Sergei! You can knock out the yellow birds before these other guys move in again!

>Go for the Bogeys holding off. Initiative!

>Try and focus on your ache?

>write in

>>4930875
>>Move to assist Braun and Sergei! You can knock out the yellow birds before these other guys move in again!

File: goodind7a.jpg (49 KB, 800x378)

49 KB JPG

>>4930931
>>Move to assist Braun and Sergei! You can knock out the yellow birds before these other guys move in again!

Hmmm...well, you would rather deal with the more immediate problem. Those guys weren't exactly looking hyper aggressive. At least for now.

"Luigi!", you call over. "Let's go help Braun and Sergei out. Put those bogeys down!"

The radio buzzes back.

*Si! Let us blast them out of the sky!*, Luigi replies. His Garibaldi cuts back to follow your Udet in the attack. Good. You just had to keep this streak of good luck going! Now...

"Captain! We're coming in!"

*Make it happen Rook!*

So you try. Coming in hot, you manage to get an opportunity on the plane trying ot outfly Braun. Hold it....now!
---
>1d10!

Rolled 6 (1d10)

>>4930984

2 mor?

Rolled 2 (1d10)

>>4930984

Rolled 10 (1d10)

>>4930984
Qm roll go!

File: ff51a95d16962daaa205dbe03(...).jpg (11 KB, 228x207)

11 KB JPG

Rolled 4, 1, 10, 5, 7, 10, 5, 5, 7 = 54 (9d10)

>>4931094
>>4931053
>>4931060
Fuck...
I am shamed.
---
Uhhh, ok boys. Make up for it!

File: images (4).png (18 KB, 205x246)

18 KB PNG

Rolled 8, 10, 3, 1, 3, 6 = 31 (6d10)

>>4931097
(Angry French sounds)

Rolled 18 (1d20)

File: 4424c44c19635f609c401f567(...).jpg (31 KB, 900x900)

31 KB JPG

>>4931097
>>4931099
>10 auto fail!
>Bogey 3 at Heavy Damage!
>Sergei At Heavy Damage!
>Badger drives away the other Bogeys!

'Tatatatatatata!'

The thumping of the machine gun sounds off, throwing hot lead at the enemy. Unfortunately, it looks like your shot again goes wide. Damn it!

'Tatatatatata!'

Still, smoke and embers pop from the engine, as it makes the misfortune of being caught in a crossfire! The angle is such that your squadmate's bullet take a big toll on it. Wildly rolling to escape the withering attack, it seems to be wounded bad. Hah! Good going guys.

That said....

*Damn! My engine!*, Sergei growls.

However, the fighter that Sergei was working to outdo gets the better of him. Overtaking his Udet, the Fonck briefly floats above the Death's Head on the tail, before letting him have it. Shards of wood and canvas fly before the bogey veers under and away. Drats!

Still.

*Thanks Rook!*, Braun replies. *Sergei...you holding up ok?*

The radio buzzes back.

*Bah..I have had worse. Not used to thus plane. I just need a breather. Da. This is nothing.*

Well, it certainly looked like--oh! You catch movement in the corner of your eye. It is as you suspected. The two Bogeys who were harrying that Voss are coming in for an attack run. Well, at least you managed to get something done first. You reach for the set.

*More fighters! From the battle!*, Sergei calls out, suddenly. Sure enough, a flight of four Udets come bursting through the rain. You can barely make out their sigils, but you think some kind of rodent?

For a second, you think of Ferret...but no.

'Tatatatatatata!'

They open up on the Bogeys hard, guns blazing. Shying away from the new arrivals, the Foncks break hard, working to find an escape. They are outnumbered and they know it. The pilot giving off the mental feeling fares better, his handling seeing him escape with narry a scratch.

Looks like you wouldn't get to close with that guy after all. Oh well. Priorities.

*This is Badger 1*, a gravely voice announces. *Friend of ours said you might be in a bind. Happy to support.*

Without a further word, Badger Flight chases the two Foncks off, before phasing out of good view behind the rainfall.

Good deeds don't go unrewarded you guess! Still, this wasn't over.

You had to finish the two enemies left!

'Boom! Crash!'

---
>Go for the untouched one. He's probably the bigger danger!

>Work to finish off the badly hurt one. Scratch that guy off!

>>4931179
>Go for the untouched one. He's probably the bigger danger!

>>4931179
>Go for the untouched one. He's probably the bigger danger!

File: f7a4074ad5f1b48f11c5f6013(...).jpg (140 KB, 1280x815)

140 KB JPG

>>4931197
>>4931208
>Go for the untouched one. He's probably the bigger danger!

Stopping a potential threat comes before a kill! With that in mind, you radio over.

"I'm going for the unhurt one!", you say. You twitch the controls and the Udet responds with a purring engine.

*Teach him a lesson. Luigi, on me!*

*Si, Captain!*

To your surprise, you see Sergei coming up along side you. The scars on his Udet are bared. But he doesn't doesn't shaken.

"Didn't you just say you needed a minute?", you ask, skeptically. You hear a dark chuckle over the radio.

*No blow unanswered. He'll learn that.*

You nod.

"Alright then. Teamwork it is!"

Working together, you and Sergei work to gain the advantage over the enemy Fonck...you won't miss this time!
---
>1d10!

Rolled 10 (1d10)

>>4931321

This just isn't our day lol. Two more? A 1 would cancel out.

Rolled 7 (1d10)

>>4931321

Rolled 6 (1d10)

>>4931542

File: images (4).jpg (7 KB, 246x205)

7 KB JPG

Rolled 10, 4, 7, 5, 6, 5, 6, 9, 9 = 61 (9d10)

>>4931666

Rolled 2, 5, 10, 10, 6, 5 = 38 (6d10)

>>4931677

File: 2adf3839622c2cc940431905d(...).jpg (133 KB, 900x900)

133 KB JPG

>>4931566
>>4931666
>>4931689
>10 autofail
>Bogey 3 defeated! Bogey 4 Flees....
>!!!!!!!!!!!
----
Today just isn't your day.

'Tatatatatatatatata!'

The machine gun spits fire, but true to you run of bad aim, you miss. Shit, what is with you today! The rain maybe? In any case, you bullets fire past the Fonck.

Sergei has better luck. His own bullets pepper the tail of the enemy craft, which seems to veer away in defensive fashion. Then a spark of orange flame and black smoke catches your eye.

*Got him! Hah! You are no match for Luigi!*, you hear Luigi roar. Sure enough, the other Fonck is entering into a barely controlled descent. Thinking better of the situation, the enemy pilot chooses to take his chances with a chute. You can make out the shape of the parachute as it opens up following his jump. Soon enough, both it and the crippled craft are lost from sight. You return to your target.

However the enemy pilot now clearly notices that he is outnumbered four-to-one. Instead of trying you all he chooses to turn tail and flee back towards the main fight. Hmph. Let him run then.

*Da! That is what you get, mess with us*, Sergei snorts. He sounds frustrated. *I am tired of this small fry....*

You nod.

"Well...look on the bright side. We are contributing at least!", you say, trying trying to sound encouraging. Still you do agree with the sentiment sort of. Where was Boucher? It just wasn't right...

As Chimera Flight reforms, it becomes clear that you aren't getting much sightseeing done. With the Sun practically vanished behind a cloudbank, the storm was making long range viewing considerably harder...

Which, before long, comes home to roost.

*We---'buzzzz' Have them---un!*

You frown, working the knob on the radio.

*All Units, the enemy is--Buzzzz--hah! Prepare for the the final blow! Buzzzzz. Push forwards and do not relent! Our vi--buzzz-at hand! Go!*

You raise a brow. That was...good news?

"Have we won, then?", you ask. "Was it really that simple?" It just seemed bizarre. Why would the Merovians force the engagement under bad odds?

*Something is rotten here....*, Braun says. *But if the Frogs want to give us an easy win...*

Through the rainfall you could make out the shape of the battle. It was apparent that, in broad terms, the Fliegermacht was finally grinding down the enemy. The second wave had brought numbers to bear. Simple math was in play now.

*Our men fight well!*, Luigi states. *See how they drive the enemy apart! Hah!*

The radio buzzes again as another series of formation wide commands come bursting through. Mostly orders to press the attack. Triumphant calls.

*Hah! All units on full attack! No m--buzz-y! The Huff--Buzz--is ours! Lothren is ours! Teach-Buzzz-Frogs a lesson boys!*

Well, they seemed confident at least. That was good. You begin to consider the possibility that maybe Foudre Flight simply wasn't here. If that was the case, perhaps it simply was a matter of one force being superior.

But still....

>>4931751
>Maybe the unhinged enemy ace with psychic powers isn't at the decisive battle for his area. >After all, it's not like thunderstorms like the one we're in are his squadron's preferred hunting ground and manifest out of nowhere each time he attacks, right ?
>I'm sure it's fine.

Come on Stanislaw. You know better.

File: c35bb76508d552c05a0d731d1(...).jpg (3 KB, 238x250)

3 KB JPG

Rolled 89 (1d100)

>>4931751
>HE IS HERE

https://youtu.be/nDq6TstdEi8

Yet...you scan the skies above. The rain washes down on your face, but there is something foreboding about those clouds. They were dark as all storm clouds were...you shake your head.

Was it unlucky that Foudre were so associated with this weather? You frown.

No way. That was just superstitious non--

And it was at about that moment that the real battle began...

It starts with a flicker. Nothing more than a shadow among shadows. Easily disregarded. But something makes you linger on it. In the sky above the battle, there are shapes descending from the roiling clouds above.

As the moments pass, a dull, escalating sensation builds in your mind. Your mouth turns dry as you detect a whiff of...wrongness.

You blink. It can't be. Madness....

But it is.

You switch to general as fast as you can.

*ABOVE! THEY'RE IN THE---*

'CRASH! BOOM! CRASH!'

Your own voice is lost in the explosive bolt that tears across the sky like a brand of white fire. And in that illumination, you see the truth. From the dark clouds above descends the rest of the Merovian attacks force. There HAD been more.

And the voice that replaces your own is far less friendly. And you know it.

*Heh...the sheep come to the slaughterhouse! You dogs! Let me hear your fear! All units, CRUSH them! BURN THEM Mwahahaha!*

The radio practically explodes in seconds. Panicked voices. Fearful men. The battle immediately descends into all out chaos as the Fliegermacht is caught by the unusual maneuver.

*W-what?!? Ambush! Ambush! AHHHHH!*

*This is Cyclops! Don't panic! The Merovians are above us. We've been had! Defensive form--buzzzzzzz!*

*Boucher! It's Boucher! Shit. Shit!*

With a grimace, you flick back to.your squads personal channel. You stare at the unfolding chaos in disbelief. To hide among the thunder itself...

*Well...*, Braun says. *I'll be damned.*

As you focus on the bloody events, the Itch claws vaguely at the back of your mind. But...Another presence descending as well? The Phantom, then. Well, you were hear for a reason.

Best be about it.
--
>The time is now. Blare out a challenge to Boucher. Loudly. Publicly. It will appeal to his sensibilities...such as they are.

>Storm into the chaos after him!

>Try and reach out with the Itch to get attention. Boucher won't take, you know. But the Phantom...

>write in
----
>WARNING! WARNING! HEROIC ACE!
>THE BLACK LIGHTNING HAS ARRIVED!
>!!!!!!!!!!!
---

>well folks that's all for right now. I had better head to bed already. See you Sunday! Stay excellent! Get those votes in! Thanks for playing.

>>4931760
I completely acknowledge how cheesy this boss stage is. But on the other hand, Boucher is a cheesy villain himself so I found it fitting. :)

Because you know you can never have enough psychotic laughing

>>4931763
I'm aware of the cheesiness of this quest, and Boucher in particular.

Ever since that time where his squad turned into the aerial version of the power rangers and started yelling out attacks on general frequency while flying in formation, complete with edgy nightcore blaring in the background, I knew we were fighting an anime villain. I half expected a flying Megazord at one point, too.

If we're still here after that, then we don't mind the cheese, QM.
Said animu cheese demands we challenge Boucher, but I personally want to try and talk to the Phantom again. See what happens.

>>4931761
>Try and reach out with the Itch to get attention. Boucher won't take, you know. But the Phantom...
Activate the itch.
>The time is now. Blare out a challenge to Boucher. Loudly. Publicly. It will appeal to his sensibilities...such as they are.
After that call him a slaughtering bitch.

>>4931860
>
Second this, also I love the slight cheesyness, so just keep going QM

File: maxresdefault.jpg (68 KB, 1280x720)

68 KB JPG

>>4931860
>>4932112
>>4931774
>Try and reach out with the Itch to get attention. Boucher won't take, you know. But the Phantom...
>The time is now. Blare out a challenge to Boucher. Loudly. Publicly. It will appeal to his sensibilities...such as they are.

A bold choice!
---
Well, there was really only one thing to do. There was not much use in waiting for Foudre to find you on their own. Instead, perhaps you could put your skills to use? With the Phantom present...you HAD been able to, after a fashion, communicate in your last fight.

Granted, you wouldn't exactly call yourself a master in this, but....you shake off a sharp twang in the back of your mind. As he descends, Boucher's cancerous mental existence spreads.

Ok. Just focus. You could try and signal the Phantom. With any luck, that should make your challenge easier to pull off. Boucher could hardly be expected to find you across that mess on his own. Right. Just a bit of mind words. No biggie.

Of course, the Itch was fickle at the very best of times. It was just a matter of self control....
---
>1d10 Itch roll!

Rolled 4 (1d10)

>>4932251
Itch!

2 more?

Rolled 9 (1d10)

>>4932337

Rolled 5 (1d10)

>>4932337
Alright. My cue I guess. Pls don't be another 10!

File: Dont+Look.jpg (139 KB, 1000x1012)

139 KB JPG

Rolled 12 (1d20)

>>4932274
>>4932378
>>4932392
>4 success!
>[I.HEAR.]

As you focus, you do your best to try and direct your thoughts towards the Phantom. Without an exact location though...it wasn't easy. Still, you channel the Itch's clawing in a constructive manner. Soon, your mind descends into a bank of jellified focus....as you reach, and reach...and r--There!

A tangible pinch registers. You can feel a closer connection to your target.

]What?...Ah, the Huzaran..We meet again[

You try to coax your weird emotion-thoughts forwards. They flow.

[We...are...beyond...the battle...]

You do not so much hear the thoughts register in your mind, as you do the desires inside them. It is still a very surreal process to you. Thankfully, though, it woupd appear the Phantom receives receives loud and clear.

]More powerful...new tricks. You've made a mess Beastie. Foudre is here to clean up. Boucher is mad...is he[

The unthoughts play out in your mind. You power through them. You must remember your purpose here.

[If you...can find...us. Fight us.]

The needling continues.

]Eager? Well then. Let's Dance.[

Pushing the dialogue to the back of your mind, you take up the radio. Running through the codes in your mind, you go for one of the LRR craft. If you could get a better frequency...a bigger one...

"Herald. Any of you. This is Chimera 3. I need you to bounce a message. Can you do that for me?", you ask. A few seconds pass before the radio buzzes back.


*This is...Herald 2. What message? We need our planes for coordination...*

You scoff a bit at that. If there was any kind of coordination to the madness unfolding over the valley, you'd be damned. But no. No time for delay.

"Chimera Flight has special orders. I'm sending out a call. I'm calling out Boucher!", you say. "Enough is enough"

*....You're crazy*, the operator responds. *But..Chimera Flight hmmm? I've heard of you. Fine. But make it quick!*

Nodding, you collect yourself. Breathe in. Breathe out. In. Ok. You crack your neck.

"This is Stanislaw Krol of the Sturmwing Chimera!", you call out. The rain throws your pitch, but you don't stop. "Boucher...Chimera Flight is waiting on you! Come and get us, if you can! You think this is a slaughterhouse? You haven't seen anything yet! You son of a bitch! Come fight us!"

The anger in your words surprises you. But after taking a deep breath, you continue.

"You think the others are small fry. Try your luck vs us instead! Or run away, like last time!", you shout. A vague memory of the enormity you detected lurking around his mind comes back...but you shake it off. You were not afraid of him. Never.

"LET'S FINISH THIS!"

*Chimera Flight?*, someone questions. *That's the Bloody Angel's unit right?*

*And the Reaper!*, another responds.

*Eux encore... merde. Continuez l'attaque!*

The moments tick by. Boucher doesn't respond. For a moment, you think your grandstanding will prove nothing more than a complete embarrassment.

File: 2156669-masked_pilot.jpg (18 KB, 320x320)

18 KB JPG

Rolled 2 (1d20)

>>4932436
[Fire. Pain. Burn.]

Then, a response. Like a clap of thunder, that maddened voice responds. The radio rumbles back back you.

*Huzaran!*, he snarls. *I thought I smelled something rotten. Are you ready to die? To BURN?! I'll send you down screaming you whelp!*

You hold firm from the hostility.

"I'm going to put you out of your misery", you say. "Let's finish this Boucher."

*I'm going to pick my teeth with your bones you sheep. You're nothing! Less than nothing you red shit. You're not the hero of this story! You'll beg for death before I'm done! Foudre, move out! Kill anyone in our way! GO!*

Alright then. Lowering the radio, you do your best to make out their approach. With this weather though...

*Well, that was one way to do it Stanislaw*, Braun muses. Then his voice grows serious.*Chimera, I want you all to be ready. You know how deadly Foudre can be! Don't get caught out. Work as a team. And by the Creator, end them all!*

You nod.

"Don't have to tell me Captain"

*Luigi relishes this fight! Let them come!*

*They'll be kill markings soon..*

As Chimera Flight forms up, in readiness, you can feel a mental void making its way through the storm. Boucher's rampage through the battlezone is not going unnoticed or unheralded. And with every moment you feel a sense of illness.

*Gaaah!*
*Stop them! Stop--tatatatata!*
*Those planes...*

The tension is palpable. All Chimera can really do is keep moving...

You have a shirt time to plan.

But think quick.
----
> When Foudre comes into view, rush them. Maybe you can break their formation before they pull any tricks?

>There is wisdom in caution. Use the storm to lay an ambush. Sergei is hurt, so he's the natural candidate. They won't see it coming!

>Try to fly defensively. You won't be outflown by these asshats. Foudre won't make you flinch!

>Write in

>>4932490
>There is wisdom in caution. Use the storm to lay an ambush. Sergei is hurt, so he's the natural candidate. They won't see it coming!
Sergei is gonna hate being used as bait every time.

Eating dinner out with the folks atm.

File: download (21).jpg (14 KB, 236x210)

14 KB JPG

Rolled 1 (1d20)

>>4932493
>There is wisdom in caution. Use the storm to lay an ambush. Sergei is hurt, so he's the natural candidate. They won't see it coming!

Well that jap rice bowl was good.
--

"...'sigh'...you want me to what?", Sergei asks. He does not sound particularly amused by this latest idea. Hmm, well, you think it may be your best bet.

"Ah come on bud!", you remark. "All you have to do is be...uh, encouraging! Encourage the enemy to attack you!"

*....you want be to be bait. Again.*

*I'm hurt Sergei*, Braun says. *Don't you trust our judgment? I mean, no offense, but you aren't really in a stage for a proper stand up fight.*

True enough. You didn't doubt Sergei's cold courage or skull. But his Udet was certainly showing wounds. And this WAS Foudre you were dealing with. You needed something to shake It up.

*Hmph. Well, it is clear that since I am indispensable to this plan...fine. But don't you dare mess this up!*, Sergei replies.

*Hah. Sergei my good friend. Luigi Pesani is here. I do not fail. This is known! We do not fail! Chimera Flight fights as one*, Luigi says. *Take heart!*

*Hmph*

As you and Braun elaborate on the remainder of the plan, it's clear that your time is running out. You shake your head in a bid to be rid of the encroaching void.

Boucher was making a B-line for you all.

[Fire. Pain. Hate.]

"He's coming", you say. "We need to act!"

*Right. Stanislaw, Luigi, head up. Sergei, look uh, conspicuous. Sell this. Ok?*, Braun says. His Udet floats up, as you and Luigi follow. You hear a scoff.

*...(grumbling) Not a performer....*

Well, he'd done done OK job disguised with you. You had faith! Gotta have faith.

In any case...you, Braun, and Luigi try to climb high enough to land an ambush, yet not so high as to lose Sergei. With any luck, Foudre would be direct....
---
>1d10....

dice+1d10

"dice+1d10"

Rolled 4 (1d10)

Two mor?

Rolled 1 (1d10)

>>4932788

>>4933104
Ha! Ive made up for my last 10

Rolled 2 (1d10)

>>4933002
Inb4 crit

File: IBM-portable-PC-01.jpg (717 KB, 4288x2848)

717 KB JPG

>Well, finally a good roll! Rough dice today. In any case, I'm gonna hit the sack. Very Tired. I'll type the last choice of the session tomorrow with a clearer head. Thank you all so much for playing!

>Also, boss stage! Hurrah! The end of Part 1 draws ever closer. Stay excellent! See you on Friday!

Rolled 8, 6, 4 = 18 (3d10)

>>4933161

File: 119032-200.png (3 KB, 200x200)

3 KB PNG

>>4932964
>>4933104
>>4933139
>>4933887
>1 autosuccess!
https://youtu.be/cXEZu-uIdeI
---
As time passes, it seems longer longer it actually is. While the rain beats down, you focus on two things. One, the pounding of your own heart. Sergei was clearly at risk. Yet the logical part of your mind told you standing up to the enemy directly was bound to be a disaster.

[Fear. Abomination.]

The second? The encroaching shadow upon your mind. Boucher's presence was unmistakable. Again you are astounded by the nature of the wrongness. The mental scent of sickness is thick in the air like a decay. But it is the un-power that gets you the most.

If Boucher is like you, he is either on a different level, or something else entirely. The Phantom was recognizable. The Black Lightning was a swirl of shadow from which only anger emanated.

You pick up the piece.

"They're almost here...", you say. "I feel him approaching."

It crackles back at you.

*All good. Stay tight boys. Maybe we can knock someone out right off. Sergei, you making yourself juicy?*, Braun asks.

*Yes. I feel like the pig with the apple. Can you not feel my enthusiasm?*

You give a little smile.

Then, Boucher makes his move.

Like dark eagles, Foudre Flights vague, rain blurred shapes enter your view. They are coming in hot, and on a direct attack towards Sergei. Just as planned. From your hidden air-perch, it would just be a matter of timing...

The radio erupts.

*Hahaha! Come out Chimera!*, Boucher shouts, madly. *I've got a surprise for you all! You sheep! You dogs! Bah, I'll start with this one..all alone little lamb?*

*A bad place for you!*, one of his wingmen chortle.

*Oui! This is your end!*

It is time to spring it! You clinch the controls, and breathe deep. Now, how to handle your personal part...
----
>You will go for Boucher directly! This ends now!

>Go for the wingmen. If you can grind Foudre down, Boucher will only be one man....

>Dive for the Phantom. He can't be left alone!

>write in
---

>Alright. Well there you have it folks. Just get those votes in!
----


>Food for Thought: did you know, that despite being a republic, Konerland has an extensive system of nobility? Nobles(or at least their representatives), rub shoulders with elected men on a daily basis in power! While higher ones hold a good bit of power in their states,(The Fürstenstaaten), the Republic's Nobles do not have any authority outside that particular boundary. And even within them they must abide by a broad set of guidelines. This has often led to the accusation that the Grand Republic is not in fact as democratic as it loudly proclaims.

>>4934111
>You will go for Boucher directly! This ends now!

Thanks for running see you Friday qm!

>>4934111
>You will go for Boucher directly! This ends now!

>>4934111
>You will go for Boucher directly! This ends now!

>>4934111
>You will go for Boucher directly! This ends now!

File: nervous_anime_boy_drawing(...).jpg (49 KB, 600x800)

49 KB JPG

>Qm Here. Im afraid I have some bad news. While I'm as excited as the rest of you at the boss fight, my professors have taken the moment(brilliant), to drop several big assignments-besides my summer finals. Big ones. There is simply no real way for me to squeeze the game in while also providing quality play. Not to mention studying. And I would feel bad making the fight sloppy. I'm gonna have to say no game this weekend. With that said, we will likely pick up as soon as possible next week. May be Tuesday night. This may be Wednesday. In any case that should give us the time we need.

>thank you for being patient! Stay excellent. I will let you know.
---

>>4939204
As a fellow student I know the pain.
Stay strong and most importantly stay excellent!

>>4939204
good luck on your studies QM proabbly going to need a new thread by then

>>4939204
Will be tommorow I think. So Wednesday.

If we slide into 7 or 8 by then we'll probably have to call this a short thread and grab a new one I guess. Thnx for the patience. Passing all so far.

File: 406-2.jpg (17 KB, 500x500)

17 KB JPG

>>4934511
>>4934808
>>4937464
>You will go for Boucher directly! This ends now!

*Now!*, Braun radios. *Now!*

Way ahead of him.

There is little time to think now. Instead, you act. Focusing your senses on Boucher, you send the Udet forwards. There is only one target in your mind as you do so. That aching void in your mind.

"Boucher!", you yell into the rain. He was exposed and vulnerable. You had to make this first pass count! The sooner this ended the better...
---
>1d10!

Rolled 8 (1d10)

>>4945341
and rolling.

2 more?
Let's get that crit anons

>>4945438
Maybe starting another thread may garner some attention?

Rolled 4 (1d10)

>>4945341

Rolled 3 (1d10)

>>4945471
Probably not a bad idea. May be that we start a new one tommorow. I always feel kind of weird starting one too early.
---
>>4945341

File: chimera-icon-trendy-moder(...).jpg (28 KB, 800x800)

28 KB JPG

Rolled 1, 7, 3, 6, 2, 3, 2, 1, 2 = 27 (9d10)

File: Tampa-Bay-Lightning-logo.jpg (194 KB, 3840x2160)

194 KB JPG

Rolled 7, 6, 3, 4, 4, 2, 3, 6, 7, 8, 3, 5 = 58 (12d10)

>>4945499
Or i suppose if it's obvious we need too. Yeh. I just figured at bare minimum might as well get a few rolls in on this.

File: 20210226_115553.jpg (105 KB, 430x510)

105 KB JPG

>>4945502
>3 Success!
>Braun Auto Success!
>Luigi Auto Success!
>Boucher at Light Damage
>The Phantom at Light Damage
>Foudre 3 at Light Damage
---
*Hahahaha--*

'TATATATATATATA!!'
*WHAT!?*

You squeeze the trigger the moment you have a shot at Boucher. The bullets fly through the raindrops, slamming into his craft with great accuracy. His craft veers off, rolling rolling avoid fire.

[Fire. Burn. Pain.]

Your companions follow suit, playing their parts brilliantly. Braun and Luigi come soaring in, their machine guns blasting at the enemy. You watch as Foudre Flight struggles struggles react, taking fire. Luigi and Braun are on two of the bogey's tails.

]Clever beastie....[

The Phantom is the only one who manages to avoid a good raking, and even he is forced to abandon his run at Sergei. His Plane dips down and out, clearly intent on gaining room.

*Si!*, Luigi cries. *You are not so tough now eh?!*

A success! Still, the enemy manages to react faster than any Fonck has the right too...

And, something catches your eye...these were no ordinary Foncks. Now that you were fairly close, that's apparent. Instead, all of Foudre Flight is decked out with the same fighter craft as Boucher. The straight wings are a dead giveaway. Damn, not good. Not good at all!

"Captain!", you radio out. "Unless I'm blind, they've re-armed!"

The radio buzzes back.

*Yeh, I can see---'tatatatata!'-that. Looks like they pulled out the stops for this one. Hmph..but it doesn't matter. Don't let up!*

You nod. Foudre could bring all the tricks tricks wanted. It wasn't going to stop you from getting this done. However, your moment of glee is interrupted as a blast of rage scrapes against your mind.

*Gaaah!*, Boucher growls. *Cowardly dog. You think tricks will save you?!? I'll leave you for the vultures!*

Despite his outrage, Foudre has clearly been caught flat footed by your ambush.

[Fire. Rage.]

*You think you're clever?!?! You'll rot like anyone else! Stay still and die, Huzaran!*

And like that, Boucher cuts into a twist, gunning his engines towards you. You blink. Is he trying to ram you?! His approach gives you a feeling of nausea.
---
>You won't be intimidated! Joust with the Black Lightning!

>Try and hit him with a fade away. And might not do much damage, but if you you glance and go...

>Dive! Dive! You'll try and draw him off. No way are you letting Foudre pull off some of their weird formation tactics.

>write in

>>4945518
>You won't be intimidated! Joust with the Black Lightning!
The madman won't chicken. Better to show that don't fear a madman.

>>4945588
>You won't be intimidated! Joust with the Black Lightning!

Bah! You weren't gonna let him scare you!

You put the engines at full power and aim for his craft. Let's do this!
--
>1d10!

>Well I'm gonna call it early tonight folks. Seems to have lulled. We will start a new thread tommorow(low down blues) and hopefully see about getting this fight really going ! Get those rolls in and stay excellent. Thnx.

Rolled 9 (1d10)

>>4945683
Stay excellent and yeah a new thread may garner some attention.

>>4919985
New thread up.