Quest Beyond the Blue

[GasMaskie]

Spoiler: BGM

​

Blue.

The color of the skies overhead, completely enveloping your field of vision. You can't remember just how many times you've simply lost track of things, looking up towards that endless canvas. And, for as long as you've remembered, you've always had a certain feeling in your chest. That you belonged up there, dashing through the air and gliding past clouds.

​

Flight.

One of mankind's earliest dreams and envies. Man never stopped reaching out towards the sky. And so, planes were developed. First as a means to grasp that previously unattainable ideal - the ability to traverse the sky. And then refined, as a tool of war. Aerial supremacy. Bombing from overhead. Invaders falling from the sky in droves. Ground-based combat never became obsolete, of course. But aerial combat quickly became an integral part of any sort of conflict moving forward. Legendary aces were born from the ashes of war. And with their skills, they pushed their planes to the limit.

How much could they load onto a warplane?
How much armor plating could you bolt on before it couldn't fly?
How can a pilot's skills be better expressed?

The end result: the Aerial Cavalry. In one moment, a plane. In the other, a metallic giant. Shifting between Silhouette and Stance Mode, these new warplanes pushed the limits of aerial combat further. From glorious close-range duels to the ability to weave through urban settings at high speeds with tight-turns, ACs made the ace pilots of yesteryear nuggets compared to the new stock being bred by these shapeshifting mecha.

In the middle of your thoughts, you feel a sharp kick to the back of your seat that properly jostles you back to reality. Tearing your gaze away from the sky, you notice the thick glass canopy and the metal framework running through it. You instinctively bring a hand to your face, only to meet the visor of your helmet and the thick oxygen mask. Blinking, you take a firmer grip of the two control sticks. You're not in any sort of combat at the moment, but flight logs will be reviewed. In response, you let out a barely audible grunt of discontent.

"Hey, I know this is a routine patrol, but pay attention. You're making us look like a bunch of nuggets." A feminine voice comes through on your headset. You don't bother glancing back. The woman's sitting right behind you - Lise Hartmann. As someone who was hired at the same time as you, she's just as new and untested to the company as you are. And, due to the only AC currently available being a two-seater, she's your WSO for this operation.

It takes a moment for you to recall the briefing - but as new hires for Orthrus Security Solutions, the two of you were assigned to their Hound Squadron. Far from the front lines of the ongoing Eastern-Western War, you're currently patrolling the airspace over a base in the Leciellan countryside. As the other three pilots in the flight bank left and your AC follows suit, you're afforded a view at the tilled fields of green below.

Hound 1 "Hunter"
<< Nice and easy. We've got about an hour left of flight time before we're due back. The top brass already know what you're capable of Hound 3, so this patrol's just here to get you acclimated to flight. Been a while for both of you, hasn't it? >> A male's voice comes through clear on your headset. Stern, and yet jovial - your current superior.

Hound 2 "Watchman"
<< Prinz's performance, I can vouch for - she's a graduate from the Royal Altian Officer Academy after all. Been a while since I've been back home, but they breed more than just over-decorated COs there. 'Least, that's how it was when I earned my wings there. >> The next voice you hear is an older male's voice. You briefly recall hearing something before - "Always fear the old soldier in the young man's war".

Hound 4 WSO | "Prinz"
<< Full marks, from there, yes. And as I assured the interviewer, I'm far more than just my bloodline. That being said, I would have preferred a support role on the ground - but he needs an WSO for this flight, and none of the other new hires can keep up. >>

Hound 3 "Stingray"
<< As silent as a field mouse over there. Heard that he really tore up the AC he was in during those wargames with the Western Coalition's wings. I'm sure that the ground crew really gave you an earful after that, didn't they? >> A woman's voice chimes in. Only a few years older than you or Lise, as you can recall.

The operation in question comes to mind. With most of their forces abroad, OSS was briefly contracted by the Western Coalition to serve as the aggressor squadron for one of their air combat practices. To cut a long story short, you came back with the AC's internals twisted up and mangled by your piloting and your co-pilot out cold. It earned you a strange reputation - with more than a few seasoned pilots often asking you if you've even got blood in your veins.

You continue to fly in a tight formation with the rest of Hound Squadron as your mind briefly drifts to the near past and the life that you left behind. Once upon a time, before becoming a soldier of fortune in the skies above, you were:

1. An impoverished patrician. Once part of an esteemed noble family, recent turns in fortunes and the seizures of assets as the Eastern-Western War came into full swing resulted in the loss of both estate and status. Though many in your long lineage have served in militaries, you're only the second pilot after your grandather; who taught you from a young age the basics of aviation. Said grandfather was also a notorious ace in his heyday, and the OSS saw the shadow of his wings in you.
2. An academy washout. More specifically - you were from a middle class family in the United Federation of Esora. While you graduated from the Esoran Military Academy, you were ultimately passed over for a position as an officer without proper connections or significantly high marks in other areas. Naturally, you're still a little bitter about the whole affair, but mercenary piloting is the next best thing. Despite the chip on your soldier, you were still one of the more notable cadets PMCs had their eyes on.
3. A veteran. Hailing from a smaller country, you actually piloted an AC at a younger age than most. While everyone had their eyes on the growing hostilities between the Western Coalition and the Alliance of the East, you were trained as a child to fire a rifle on your local despot's orders. Of course, foreign intervention eventually arrives and atrocities are swept under the rug - you were one of the lucky ones who survived into young adulthood. War's all you know, and the OSS were nonetheless impressed by your skills.

 

[GasMaskie]

>Hover at your position, remaining in Stance Mode while you fire on the enemy [GUN, DC: 12]

[Avg: 16 + 1: Success]​

​

​

You decide to stick to Stance Mode, hovering where you are as your eyes narrow and you focus on the black shape pursuing your ally. The wings on your AC flatten out and spread to stabilize the craft as you retrieve your gunpod and quickly convert it into its handheld form. Though the Kite's systems are already locked onto the bogey as it flits about, you manually override any automated movements in the AC's arms to line up your shots yourself.

Pilot: Hound 4 " Joker"
AC: AF-07T Kite (Trainer)
AC Mode: Stance
STR: 2
GUN: 2
ACM: 2
EVA: 4 (+1)
END: 3
TEC: 2
Loadout:
1x Standard Gunpod

As your concentrate, the world melts away, leaving only the endless blue that makes up the firmament. You only hear two sets of breaths - yours and Lise's. And eventually, that too is shifted to the background as you can only hear your heartbeat in your chest as your eyes strain. And then... nothing. Confronted by the void of emptiness, a clear sky, you pull the trigger on your control stick and watch as a three round-burst erupts from your gun. You quickly begin to line up a second shot.

And as expected, two of the shots go wild but the third is projected to strike the bandit mid-flight. With an inhuman reaction speed, however, it jukes upwards to avoid the lethal round... Only to be directly struck by every bullet from your next shot - just as predicted. You hear a cheer from behind you as the AC's fuselage bursts into flames. Although it still keeps up its dogged pursuit, Stingray's AC suddenly decelerates and transforms once more, using its own gunpod to pepper more rounds into its damaged hull as it passes underneath. Smoke rolls off the machine as it begins its death spiral towards the earth below.

AWACS "Control"
<< All bandits down, nice work Hound Squadron. Hopefully that's the last of them. >>

Diedrich Vogel
<< Much obliged, mercs. Those were what remained of our pursuers... And it looks like they're late to the party. >>

Western Coalition Peacekeeper Squadron | Meteor 1
<< We received reports of aerial combat over Leciel. Confirming IFF signatures... Everything looks to be in order - Orthrus Security Solutions mercs. >>

You can hear a fair bit of derision dripping off the voice in your radio as a formation of five ACs approach in Silhouette Mode. Looking overhead, you can spot the faintest glimpse of something flying higher - likely their own sniper. You shift back into Silhouette Mode as Hound 2 and 3 fly back to regroup with you.

Hound 2 "Watchman"
<< Looks like we can leave the rest of the escort and clean-up to them. Shame about Hunter... I'll take care of the report once we get back. Are we cleared to withdraw, Control? >>

AWACS "Control"
<< Affirmative, Hound 2. We'll be sending some personnel out to retrieve Hound 1's AC. Considering the situation, you all did well enough. Head on home. >>

As you watch the Diedich Vogel continue on its flight path flanked by the heavily-armed Peacekeeper Squadron, lift your visor up and take a deep breath. Your WSO brings a hand to her chest as she calms down as well before you ultimately defer to Hound 2 and follow the attacker AC, taking the left wingman position as Stingray covers the other side. There's a clunk behind you - seems like Prinz fell asleep. You smirk slightly, looking up towards the blue of the sky one last time before returning.

Sometime later...

Spoiler: BGM

​

"...Not exactly routine, but you managed to survive and adapt. Watchman, you'll be taking over as Hound 1. We've retrieved Hunter's personal effects and will be sending them back to his contacts within the week. Should an off-base funeral be arranged, we'll inform you all and assign the requisite leave for attendance. Otherwise, the base psych's available for any grief counseling. That'll be all for you two... Joker and Prinz, stay here."

The debriefing back at the small airbase on the outskirts of civilization in Leciel. As the lights in the room turned back on, the large screen monitor in the room finally turned off. Just a few second prior, the officer who had provided AWACS was going over the collected data and flight paths. One kill for each pilot. Lise sat next to you, arms folded as let out a soft sigh after the flow of information had ceased. Unfortunately, there wasn't any further information about the passengers onboard the Diedrich Vogel, but sitting here now - just having made it out of that combat situation seemed to be enough for the fresh graduate.

You glance over for a moment - in the air, you tended to forget how others looked, despite flying with them for hours. While you're sure that she's the same age as you are, her smaller stature makes her seem even younger. Not quite absurd... but she'd likely pass as a high schooler rather than a college student. With how long her golden locks are, you wonder just how she manages to fit all of it into her helmet. Maybe a ton of hairpins? You scratch your head as she stares back for a moment when she realizes you've got your sights locked onto her.

"...Mm? Something on my face Joker?"

Shaking your head, you bring your attention back towards the center of the room as a man in fatigues enters the room with a hardcase in his hands. He sets it down on the table and opens it up, logging into the protected console before saluting to Control and taking a step back. The screen is overtaken by a video feed of the wilderness - likely streamed from somewhere far. While the sun's setting here, the scenery outside where the camera is positioned is enveloped by the darkness of the night with only an offscreen bonfire providing an orange glow. After a few more moments of stillness, a man enters the frame, taking a seat on a nearby rock.

You recognize the man instantly, despite having never spoken to him until now. The CEO of OSS and the leader of its flagship team, Wardog Squadron. Wardog 1 "Oz", a veteran who attained the position after the last CEO was shot down in battle. With how skilled he is, along with the rest of his squadron, they've been flying missions in the east on the frontlines of the war. Lise blinks as well, rubbing her eyes as she sat up in attention and saluted. Glancing over, you followed suit.

"At ease. Hound 4, right? The new recruits - Joker and Prinz. Oz here, I don't think I need any introductions. Just took a read at the report by Huntsman and Control - saved Gransbourg's statesmen, huh? Stuff like that - we're mercs, so we won't make the news most of the time. But, it's a little different here. After all, Miss Prinz here is in line for the throne. Just came off a call with the Acting Captain... Rosebud or something? Well, seems like we'll be negotiating a contract with them..."

Closing your eyes for a moment, you recall the military situation in Gransbourg - under the terms of surrender following the cessation of hostilities from their last war, the country's armed forces were significantly cut-back and underfunded. While their economy had long since recovered, their precarious location within the Buffer Zone meant that their defense forces were only a token resistance should the continent be invaded. In that region, it was common for states to employ mercenaries to bolster their forces... and until now, Gransbourg has solely relied on their own defense force.

"...Joker's got potential, but according to the dossier, communication's his weak suit. On the other hand, Miss Prinz has the connections and the training to serve as a proper officer. Thought it over and here it is. We're very certain that we'll be able to secure a contract with Gransbourg. And once that's done, we'll need to send over a new squadron to represent the company. You don't have a lot of experience, but the other recruit we have in Hound Squadron wouldn't have performed nearly as well on that flight."

He clasped his hands together as the two of you listened intently.

"Joker, you'll be leading the OSS's newest unit - Kerberos Squadron. And Prinz, you'll be with him - if anything, you'll be the commanding officer in all but name. It's your country, after all, but instantly promoting the fourth-in-line to throne might raise some eyebrows with the international community. Pack up your things - within the next two weeks, we'll send you over to our new airbase there. Well... I'll also leave recruiting to the two of you - check your devices, should be some dossiers from our newest recruits. Normally Hound Squadron would have first pick, but you need to bolster up your forces."

"Sir!" "...!" You both stand and salute him as he takes a swig from a flask. You suspect it to be alcohol, but that's soon debunked as he wipes some juice from his mouth with an arm.

"...Damn good pineapple juice here. That's it from me - Oz out." The feed cuts suddenly there as the officer picks up the console and closes it up and leaves the room. Control clears his throat and dismisses the two of you. Standing up, you leave the room followed by your WSO, who looks to be beaming with enthusiasm.

"A promotion! And I've hardly been here for that long. Not to mention - returning home... I haven't been back since I got hired. Two weeks out... I guess we'll both have our own preparations."

"..."

"...And well, maybe you should work on your communication skills, Joker." Flashing a smirk, she playfully elbows your side.

[Mission Complete]
​

Mission Clear Rewards: 3 Stat Points - Limit 1 per stat.​ 1000 Credits​ Potentials Unlocked​ ​ Potentials Pilots, both Joker and other members of the Kerberos Squadron, can unlock Potentials that affect mission performance by modifying rolls in combat. With the completion of the first mission, you can now select one of three Potentials - further opportunities to improve or unlock more will be forthcoming. The Devil's Own Luck I: Once per mission, ignore one failure and treat it as a success. Wing Commander I: Call upon one of your Squadron Members to add a +1 bonus to your next roll. Limited to one call per sortied Squadron Member. Skydancer I: Add +1 to the bonus(es) provided by Joker's selected AC Mode after switching for the next roll. Activates each time an option is selected that changes modes, regardless of success. Squadron Members Joker has now been promoted to Kerberos 1. As such, he will now fly with a team under his (silent) command. Typically, a full Squadron will consist of three Fighter ACs, one Attacker AC, and one Sniper AC along with an AWACS unit. You will now have the chance to select from the pool of Recruits to fill out Kerberos Squadron. Select 1 from each category. Fighter Pilot Candidates: "Ronin" ( ♂ ): A pilot hailing from the Amatsu Imperium. Formerly an Independent Mercernary before joining OSS. A professional through and through. "Stig" ( ♂ ): Some say that he's the product of a genetic engineering project or a drone in a flight suit. All we know is, he's called "Stig". "Crescent" (♀): A Tai Dynasty pilot from the countryside. Though lacking in experience, she's a natural-born pilot. A great cook as well. Attacker Pilot Candidates: "Gorilla" ( ♂ ): Fitness nut. A former Western Coalition Peacekeeper Squadron pilot in search of more lucrative opportunities. Known to use brute force to open authentication devices. "Sunshine" ( ♀ ): A younger recruit, fresh out of the Royal Altian Officer Academy. Has never left the Kingdom of Altia until now, despises Altian cuisine. "Carmilla" ( ♀ ): A noblewoman from the Holy Theranos Empire. Previously flew for Daeros Limited as a test pilot. Distinctive laugh and a sheltered upbringing. Sniper Pilot Candidates: "Stalker" (♀): Origins unknown, formerly worked as an assassin before being acquired by OSS. Displays slight instabilities, can operate as a Fighter as well. "Glint" (♂): A farmboy from Gransbourg. Shows incredible potential as a Sniper AC pilot, but has little combat experience. His brother's in the Royal Guard. "Gambit" (♂): A pilot from the USF, has a gambling problem. Debt bonds bought out by Oz, would prefer to avoid returning to his home country to avoid any further trouble. AWACS Candidates: "Scheherazade" (♀): An operator from the Perdra Sultanate. Once worked as an executive's secretary before realizing her potential as a missions control. "Thunderhead" (♂): A former Western Coalition AWACs, switched to mercenary work when the laxer conditions became apparent. Loves eating on the job.

 

[GasMaskie]

>The Devil's Own Luck I acquired

[Vote Results]
+1 STR
+1 ACM
+1 EVA

Kerberos Squadron Recruitment:

• Crescent (Fighter)
• Carmilla (Attacker)
• Stalker (Sniper)
• Scheherazade (AWACS)

[Mission 2 - "Night Raid"]
​

Your gaze falls to your left arm, where a new patch has been attached to your jacket. The past two weeks have been hectic, between your reviews of the dossiers for your new squadron and having to brush up and review company policy. And in that whole time span, you've been grounded - couldn't have the new squadron leader die in another patrol gone wrong, after all. And despite Lise keeping you up to date with news both across the continent and in her home country, there's been nothing else to learn about those black ACs nor the full extent of the situation.

​

The cargo plane touches down finally as your thoughts swim about. You enjoyed Hound Squadron's escort detail and an uneventful flight over to Gransbourg. It was almost a little surreal - you happened to be the last one to actually arrive - Lise's transfer orders came in a few days earlier. More likely than not to coordinate with the Gransbourg government in an official capacity. You grip the patch as the ramp opens up and lets in the vibrant hues of the day.

"Glad you made it here in one piece, Joker. Or should I call you 'Commander' now? Actually, Joker just runs off the tongue better." Naturally, the first to greet you as you disembark is Lise, her fatigues bearing the same patch as well. An older woman follows closely - as long as a young boy who isn't wearing a uniform. With his stark white hair and black hoodie, he certainly stands out. You tilt your head at the unexpected tagalong, but the woman clears her throat and brings a hand up for a handshake as she approaches you. Judging by the features on her face, she's likely from the East.

"A pleasure to meet you, Joker. I'm Haze, I'll be flying as Kerberos 2." You shake her hand firmly, and judging by the way she looks you over subtly as you draw back, the woman has a certain amount of experience to her. The boy stares off into space as you gesture towards him, shooting Haze a questioning look.

"...Right, an explanation. This is my charge, though perhaps protégé would be more apt. For convenience's sake, we'll address him as Stray. Rest assured commander, my arrangements have already been cleared by Oz himself. But that's enough of that - a tour of the new base is in order, isn't it?" You nod as the trio walk over to a nearby truck. It's a standard model from Esora, and a brief sense of nostalgia washes over you as you open the thick doors and climb into the rear seat along with with Stray.

"...Ahem. Haze was actually an instructor in Altia who taught me everything I knew - her skills with a blade are second to none, Joker. Though, to think you took on someone that young as a student - he must have some potential. Or maybe he's actually you're secret so- Gyah!" Prinz fiddles with the radio to the vehicle, flipping through several stations before eventually settling on a Leciellan song as she looks over to the driver. Her last insinuation is met with a swift chop to the head.

Spoiler: BGM

​

"There were other circumstances regarding this arrangement, but perhaps in a few years, Stray will be flying on missions of his own." You glance over to the boy, and he stares back. There's a certain amount of kinship between you two - between the silence and an unspeakable quality you can detect within him. You bring a fist out, and he brings his own to it in a sign of silent camaraderie before you notice the princess looking back with a slighty mug smile.

You fold your arms as you puff up your chest and look out the window. As Haze drives around the base, you quickly begin to construct a map of the base in your head. The notable buildings you pass by include the command center, two different hangars, two sets of barracks, and the communications center. Of course, you'd be hard-pressed to find the OSS logo stamped on any of these places - mercenaries didn't like to advertise their bases, after all. There were also three different watchtowers and the barbed wire fencing that enclosed the whole space.

After another pass around the compound, the vehicle came to a stop as it pulled up by the command center. Though the building looks brand new, you know better - the base had been built upon the remains of a previous Gransbourgian installation that had been razed to the ground during their last conflict. Still, the fact that the ruins managed to persist for so long proved just how tough their construction was - something that made it easy to raise an entirely new base within such as short period of time. Lise disembarks as well, taking the lead as she waves to Haze, who drives off.

Entering through the wide doors, you're greeted with drab achitecture from more than a few decades ago. It almost feels like you've stepped back in time, but Lise's own presence keeps you grounded in the present. You keep your glances succinct, however, as she leads you to the operations room. Compared to the previous one at your last base, this room's been equipped with the latest technology. The large screens have a blue glow to them, and a number of personnel are already located in the lower levels at their terminals. As you fold your arms and survey the area, a woman in a suit approaches you.

"My, you must be Joker. It is an honor to be serving with you under the OSS. I am 'Scheherazade', and I shall be serving as Kerberos Squadron's AWACS. Rest assured, I shall do my utmost best to direct you during operations." The woman bows slightly before you before looking to her pad and turning her attention back towards the lower levels. As she heads downstairs, Lise blinks as her phone rings. She answers the call and moves away for a moment, looking slightly concerned before making her way back towards you.

"...Aaah. Joker, do you remember that mission that was scheduled this week? According to our contact with the Gransbourg Defense Force, there's been an information leak - and we'll have to deploy tonight. We can't really do much about it with how time-sensitive the situation is. That being said, looks like you'll have enough time before briefing to explore the base. I'll stick around here and start finetuning the plans. 'Course, I'll be flying with you tonigh too - they only sent that trainer Kite over." Though she looks exasperated, her smile returns to her face before long. You only realize it when her expression changes, but your mouth's already curled up into a small smile - getting to fly even sooner than anticipated was a real treat.

As Scheherazade waved Lise over next, you brought a hand to your chin to consider your options - what would be the best use of your time before briefing?

You have enough time for three outings. You...

• Seek out Kerberos 3 "Crescent".
• Seek out Kerberos 4 "Stalker".
• Seek out Kerberos 5 "Carmilla".
• Stick around to speak with Prinz and Scheherazade.
• Look for Haze and Stray.

 

[GasMaskie]

>Coordinate with Stalker, marking targets for elimination while you weave through AA fire. [EVA + ACM, DC: 12]
[AVG: 4 + 4: Failure]

Potential: The Devil's Own Luck I Activated

Remaining Activations: 0​

​

Kerberos 1 "Joker"
<< ... >>

Kerberos 4 "Stalker"
<< Eh? You'll fly right into their gun range and pick out targets for me? I-If you insist, then I won't let you down! >>

"...Hey, even if I am your WSO, I'm still a princess. It'd be a national tragedy if I died to a bunch of pirates, but we'd both get written off as idiots. Haaah. I'll put my trust in you, Joker. Just don't get us killed, alright?" Lise chides you, but ultimately approves of your current plan - Carmilla doesn't need the support right now, and you wouldn't order the other fighters in the squadron to do something as dangerous as this. Gripping your controls tightly, you fly in.

AWACS "Scheherazade"
<< K-Kerberos 1 is flying right in! And he's transmitting data... relaying it to Kerberos 4! >>

Almost immediately as you approach range, your systems blare out warnings of enemy lock-ons. Prinz keeps her display and the cameras alloted to her on the turrets that soon slide out from their enclosures. You grit your teeth as you fly in close, narrowly avoiding gunfire as you encircle the compound. Though you keep ahead of the VADS emplacements that churn out bullet after bullet near your tail, you suddenly receive another warning.

Pilot: Kerberos 1 " Joker"
AC: AF-07T Kite (Trainer)
AC Mode: Silhouette
STR: 3
GUN: 2
ACM: 3 (+1)
EVA: 5
END: 3
TEC: 2

Loadout:
1x Standard Gunpod

[MISSILE ALERT] [MISSILE ALERT]

Surface-to-Air Missile emplacements. You can only push the Kite to its limits as its engines scream out. For a moment, you swear that you hear something shatter, but you press forward. One cannon belches out a cloud of flak directly in front of you - and you nearly plow right through the deadly shrapnel. Perhaps it was your luck, or your instinct, but you veer upwards as the missiles go wide. You can hear some of the metal fragments scrape against your AC, but you ignore it as you continue your deadly lap around the fortifications. Thankfully, it gets easier - the whole structure shakes as it endures high-altitude shots from Stalker's rifle. Each shot leaves nothing but the partially melted and shattered carcass of the pirate's defenses.

You break off once Stalker finishes disabling the last of the turrets, returning your AC to higher altitudes as you grip your chest. As confident as you were in your piloting, that was far too much of a close call. Lise lets out a shriek as she kicks the back of your seat before calming down. It's not too often that you actually fly hard enough that it actually leaves you in pain - you've always been good at handling high-g manuevers, but flying like that might have shaved a few years off.

AWACS "Scheherazade"
<< All defensive fortifications have been eliminated. Kerberos 5, you're clear for a direct assault. >>

Kerberos 5 "Carmilla"
<< OHOHOHO! As expected of my squadron lead! I shall tear wide these gates, have at thee curs! >>

"Rosebush"
<< Tch, isn't the Princess in that AC? Whether that was luck or skill, they still made it out alive... Marines, prepare to breach! >>

You roll the plane onto its side as you decelerate, faced with the starry skies to your left and the murky depths illuminated by the pirates' spotlights below. The Vikhr's massive three-fingered manipulators crush and penetrate the improvised gate that guards the oil rig and begins to tear plates of armor off. Several patrol boats and rafts filled with soldiers make their way around the AC and enter the opening left inside. As you circle the area with your AC, you take a deep breath.

"..Hey, Joker. When we're this high up, it's almost like I can reach out and grab them. Even if everyone is so very different from one another, they see the same sky, don't they?"

​

You nod, turning your gaze from the silent devastation and the carnage left on the water's edge to the heaven's above.

Sometime later...​

"This concludes Operation: Egg Smasher. No casualties reported on our side, the only injuries I'll have to include in the report involve one of the crew members in my craft burning himself on the stove. As for the Gransbourg Defense Force, they're reporting a fair amount of injured personnel but no losses on life on their end. Any hostile pilots who ejected have been fished out from the sea and shall be persecuted under the full extent of the law. In addition, the marines recovered a number of imprisoned hostages - had we not flown tonight, they likely would have absconded on the ship they had prepared within the oil rig's structure. As for clean-up, that shall be handled by Gransbourg as well. A job well done, Kerberos Squadron." Scheherazade finishes the debriefing as the lights in the command center brighten and the data displayed on the monitor vanishes.

You run a hand through your hair, glancing towards the other pilots in your squadron. As far as you can tell, everyone performed admirably. And despite that nerve-wracking end to the operation, Lise is in high spirits - mostly due to your kill count. Haze and Stray approach the two of you as your other three pilots exit following a call for dismissal.

"With the way you were flying, I'm surprised your callsign isn't 'Daredevil'. Still, you made it out of that situation in one piece. Can't say that I've seen too many other pilots pull off something like that. There's more to being an ace than just skill - pure luck. And it seems like you've got both in high quantities." She pauses a moment, leaning down to pat her ward's head before stretching out an arm.

"...Seems like Crescent wants to celebrate at the mess hall as well. I'm sure you two have worked up an appetite for it too." The older woman turns, waving back as she exits. Stray seems to copy her gesture as you stifle a yawn and wave back. You consider turning in but...

"C'mon Joker! I've been hearing nothing but good thing's about Crescent's cooking since she arrived, and tonight was our first flight as Kerberos Squadron! Hehe, I'll show you how you celebrate in Gransbourg!" Your WSO's golden hair sways about as she prances around you before taking hold of your hand and leading you out. You're almost surprised that someone so small could drag you around so easily, but you simply resign yourself to her whims with a small smile. You've earned this much, at least.

[Mission Complete]
​

Mission 2 Clear Rewards: 3 Stat Points - Limit 1 per stat. 1000 Credits The Devil's Own Luck I Uses Refreshed​

 

[GasMaskie]

[Vote Results]

+1 END​

+1 EVA​

+1 ACM​

[Mission 3 - "Fairy"]
​

"Come on, keep up Joker! It's not every day that we get to leave the base like this." You're pulled forward by the short girl in the middle of your usual admiration of the blue skies above. Right now, you're currently dressed in casual attire just like your WSO. You nearly stumble, grimacing as you keep pace with the spirited woman's strides. You look around and it's almost a little jarring. Gransbourg's aptly-named capital, Gransbourg City, is bustling with activity.

"Ah, over there! I haven't had one of these in years!" Lise drags you towards a small stand. You scratch your head as you silently point to two of the sweet delicacies - one with strawberries and the other filled with banana slices. Though the vendor's a little put-off by your silence, he receives your money and hands off two of the thin Leciellan pancakes to you. You appoach Lise, handing her the banana crepe as you look her over. Of course, she looks like any other civillian out and about right now - aside from the large sunglasses that obscure her face and her wide-brimmed hat.

"Thank you, Joker. Mm, just as sweet as I remember too. I used to eat these all the time when I was in high school. Of course, I still had to wear a disguise - and shake off the royal guards since this was off the beaten path." She bit into the crepe, glancing over to you as you did the same with your own. You both have your sidearms currently concealed - one could never be too sure about anything. Though you're enjoying yourself on what might look like a date to outsiders, you're actually out on business.

With the success of your first joint operation with Gransbourg, Kerberos Squadron's existence has been justified to both Oz and the investors within Orthrus Security Solutions. And as such, the newly christened 'Spear Base' has received a glut of new funding - which your interprid WSO has already drawn a budget for. Within the week following your hard-earned victory, more land had been advocated to your home - and two new buildings have been erected. The first was a research center - OSS recently transferred over a whole team of white coats. While it wasn't uncommon for large mercenary companies to have their own research and development departments, Gransbourg's funding truly legitimized their efforts. The second was a recreational facility. Along with the funding, the OSS had also sent more personnel over - enough so that the base now required that space according to company policies.

You check your phone for the time - it's still a little early. As Kerberos Squadron's leader, you've been summoned out of the city for a meeting with 'Rosebush', Gransbourg's selected liasion. Naturally, Lise was to accompany you - both as an interpreter and in her semi-official position as Spear Base's true administrator. And well, having the fourth in line princess would perhaps reduce any lingering tensions - if his previous communications during the last operation were to be trusted. After you finish your crepes, you beckon Lise to follow - it's time for your destination of choice. You walk slightly slower than usual to account for your companion's stature before you find yourself standing in front of a hobby store.

Aside from flying, you had other hobbies. And chief among them was model building. You've always wanted to fly and when you were younger, you'd always imagine yourself in the miniature replicas of ACs. You also admired them thoroughly - while you never intended to become an AC designer, you've read enough to appreciate some of the design choices and the aesthetics that reflected their country. Just prior to today, you had finally finished setting a few up on the shelf in your personal quarters. Haze happened to stop by to drop off a report when Stray had peaked into your quarters. You could tell from the gaze on his face that the boy took an interest in the model ACs as well.

"...Ah, I see, you're getting one for Stray? The recreation center will be good for him, but something like that's bound to keep him entertained while we're off flying." She tapped her cheek in thought as she followed you into the store. As you quietly perused the aisles of boxes containing plastic parts on sprues, you felt the woman tugging at your shoulder. Lise was pointing at a model that hung from a wire - oh, that looked familiar.

"It doesn't have the markings, but I'd say that that's a pretty good rendition, wouldn't you say? Maybe Stray would like one of those - or a model to match Haze's. Say, Joker, have you actually asked her what's up with that? A mercenary base is hardly the place to raise a kid so..." You shook your head. It wasn't really something you wanted to pry into - and you hardly knew the woman outside of your current professional standing. Something catches your WSO's eye, however, and she wanders off as you continue your search for a gift.
You browse the shelves once more - they're unorganized so it's a little difficult to find it. But you find it with a little effort - a 1/48 scale model of the Trainer Kite. You reach out to pull it out - only to notice a second set of fingers also grabbing it. You bring your gaze upwards and find a young woman, likely no older than you are. With hair as white as clouds and eyes the same shade as the sky, she certainly has a striking appearance.

"Oh, my apologies." You shake your head, relinquishing your grip on the box. It's not like you were really a fan of the Kite to begin with. She carefully pulls the box out and brings out close to her chest, smiling softly as she bows. You bring a hand to your chin before gesturing towards her. Although she tilts her head in confusion at first, your silent communication becomes clear.

"Ah, I see. It's a little odd, but I suppose variants tend to be a little rarer than the base models at times. And well, it's also a bit reassuring to know that someone else from my generation has the same sort of hobby. Meeting a fellow builder's always nice. But are you sure that you're fine parting ways with this one?" You nod in response, taking a few steps back and retrieving a model of the Type-4F Washi. It definitely wasn't your first choice - especially since he'd need to scratchbuild Haze's armaments for a perfect replica.

"Thank you... And, you have no idea just how long I've been searching for this." She bows slightly again as you scratch your head with a small smile - you could always just settle for customizing a kite if you really felt the need to add one to your own collection as well. You glance around, spotting your companion admiring a large diorama in the middle of the shop. You feel that you still have enough time to spend here, so you silently chat her up.

"Oh, so you're a college student here in Gransbourg? I see. My brother and I travel often, but I'd love the opportunity to just settle down and learn on a campus. Ah, I suppose I should introduce myself as well. My name is-"

"Finished yet, Lotte. Mm? Have you made a new friend?" A taller man approaches from behind her. Though his hair is slightly darker, you can definitely tell that he's related to the young woman. Though he scrutinizes you with a slight intensity for a moment, he grins as he pats his sister's head. You scratch the back of your head, gesturing. You've only just met the woman, though she seems like someone you could talk to regarding your hobby.

"I'm interrupting aren't I, my bad. Oh, you actually found it this time, huh? ...It's just about time, Lotte. We should probably be on our way - I'll meet you at the counter then." He excuses himself, waving over to you as you respond in kind. It seems like they're on a schedule today as well.

"...Right, I should pay for this and get a move on. But it was nice speaking with you... Oh, here's my number. We'll be in Gransbourg for a while, so maybe we can meet up sometime and talk. It's been a pleasure meeting you!" It only takes a moment, but you now have your first non-Kerberos contact in your phone. As a part of protocol, you don't have your family's contact information listed on it. A mercenary's identity was a well-guarded secret, and if you were to die - it might prove disastrous to the company. You also fell back on the cover story that Lise had thought up - your line of work could now be considered a matter of national security now as well. You briefly watch as Lotte's brother pays for the kit and they exit the shop; she waves on the way out.

You tap Lise's shoulder, satisfied with your choice for Stray. But the woman gives you a smug grin as she presents a model kit - for a Vertical Tank. The ground-based unit equivalent to an AC - though, there aren't any at Spear Base. You tilt your head as you question her.

"You're always cooped up in your room building these kits aren't you Joker? Maybe I should give it a shot - and it looks really neat over here." She points towards the diorama at the model in question. You let out a sigh before taking the box in her hands and heading to the counter, buying both models and concluding your business here. Naturally, your WSO's in high spirits once you leave - and bombarding you with questions about how to actually build the plastic replica. Perhaps you should have bought her a set of tools as well.

-/ Some time later /-
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You're sitting at a table by the window in a small cafe. It's a cozy, rustic space far from the hustle and bustle of the downtown area of Gransbourg City. To your right is Lise and in front of both of you are cups of coffee and saucers. And directly across from you, a scowling young man still in uniform. Aside from the staff, the whole place is empty. And outside, you can clearly spot a few men mulling about acting as inconspicuously as possible as they guard the area. Your contact's face tightens as he taps his finger on the table.

"Really now, shopping on your way to the meeting? Princess Lise, you need to exercise more caution - he might be impressive in the skies, but one man cannot equate a unit of the Royal Guard." It took you a while, but you recognize 'Rosebush' as the person who responded on the comms from the Diedrich Vogel. Acting Captain Rosengard. As he chides your WSO, you take a moment to interrupt him and ask him about that.

"...Ah, right. The captain had been knocked out when a missile struck our craft - so naturally I stepped up to assume command. As for the situation itself - much of it is far too classified to share with a merc. But, those black ACs suddenly beset themselves upon us. Perhaps they truly intended to assassinate the King? We were just returning from an environmental summit in Altia when they suddenly appeared on radar." You take in his words and nod - so it seemed like the unidentified ACs were just as much as mystery to Gransbourg as they were to you. And, reports regarding their ACs after they were recovered by the Peacekeeper Squadron were confidential. You brought you hand to your chin as you considered the possibilities - a group of actual bandits? A squad of assassins from a criminal organization? Perhaps they were actually another country's special operations group - that might explain their unique modifications.

"I'm glad father's okay. And really - I'm a mercenary now, I can handle myself. And Joker's good for more than just flying! Bet you've never seen him lay someone flat on their back in a spar! Or watched him hit a target from maximum range with a handgun! But I don't need the Royal Guard - I never have, and I never will." She sticks her tongue out, eliciting a grumble from the young man. Though you appreciate Lise's attempts to back you up, it was really you getting pinned by Haze during a spar. And Stalker making impressive shots during a group training exercise. Still, it's the thought that counts.

"Mmrrr... Be that as it may, your father also shares my own sentiments - he'd rather have you on the ground rather than flying around. I mean - he flew you right through those pirates' air defense systems." He ground his teeth for a moment before taking sip from his cup. He also shoots you a rather dirty look, but you fire back with a light shrug. The risk paid off, and the two of you walked away without a scratch.

"Let's just get down to business - border control. As you know, we share a border with the Kingdom of Altia. Ganseal Valley serves as a physical barrier between our two nations. During the war, our military had several outposts set up within those crags. Our observation satellites have recently taken these photos." Rosebush reaches into a pocket and spreads out a number of photographs on the table before you. Lise takes a sip as you slide a photo between the two of you. Though it's too grainy to make out certain details, the photograph clearly depicts three ACs flying between the rocky pillars that make up the mountainous region.

"Thus, we have reason to believe that our old bases may have some new occupants. Perhaps of the same ilk who might inhabit a vacant oil rig? Considering the effort we went through just to clear them out last time - the king has authorized an immediate investigation on the area. We're requesting your aid in providing an escort detail to our troops - we'll be investigating some of the outposts within the valley while you make sure that our birds don't get shot down." You nod in understanding. Of course, turning Gransbourg down isn't an option. The royal guardsman fishes out a USB next and hands it over to Lise.

"The operation details are all located in there - we'll be operating on a shorter timeframe. While the leak has been plugged, the GDF is taking precautions. There's a possibility that any squatters might pack up and leave before we can deal with their potentially illegal violations. And... if we don't take care of this problem now, this may serve as an impetus for the Altians to move the border and take more territory." The young man grimaces as he looks down into the surface of his coffee. Wounded pride seemed to be common among Gransbourgians, barring Lise. The past conflicts have caused a strong nationalistic fervor to develop with both the old and the young. Reformists, on the other hand, have used the failures of the past to justify an upheaval of the system. As Kerberos 1, you received a brief primer about all of this. You take a sip from the cup.

"I'll hand this over to Scheherazade when we get back to base then. Then, if that's all - Joker and I should really get going. And no, we won't be riding back in a private detail, thank you very much. Tata for now." Lise adjusts her clothing and puts her 'disguise' back on. She finishes the rest of her coffee and pulls you up from your seat, practically dragging you along as she makes a hasty exit before the liaison can protest. In fact, you seem him stand up and start banging on the window by his seat as Lise starts to run, gripping your hand tightly as you run behind her. Though you share her distaste for the man, you can't help but wonder why she's so stubborn about the Royal Guard.

-/Some time later.../-
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After an uneventful ride back in an armored truck with tinted windows, you arrive back at base. You part ways with Prinz - she's The operation is still a number of days away - and you have an unbooked schedule. There are a number of ways you can spend your time - you're fairly certain that you can arrange for meetings with your squadron or other contacts in the mean time. As you begin to walk to your quarters as the sun begins to set, you also consider the new research facility. It definitely seemed important enough to warrant a visit - and you're certain that you can find the time to do so once you've got the rest of your plans laid out.

Looking over your calendar on your phone, you have enough time for two activities. You...

• Meet with Haze, Stray, and Prinz.​
• Meet with Crescent and Scheherazade in the Mess Hall.​
• Meet with Carmilla and Stalker at the Shooting Range.​
• Call up Lotte and arrange an outing.​