A shroud of smoke surrounds me. I realize it’s not just me who’s smoking. My ploy worked. I hit the enemy.
“Command, this is Kuni. I’m hit. It’s bad- my right engine is failing… I don’t think I’m gonna make it,” the unsteady voice of the enemy pilot says, voice crackling with the static of the radio.
“Roger that, Garuda One. Eject if you must. The rescue party is on it’s way,” the enemy command replies.
I smile, sighing in relief. I had just downed my first plane- and I was only a trainee.
“Mobius One, this is command. What’s your situation? ETA for backup is five minutes.”
“My right wing is hit. I’ll make it. I got the bastard, though…”
Silence. Nearly a full minute of silence.
“Are you serious?”
“Heck yeah… I just heard him say he’s not gonna make it.”
Silence, again. I welcomed it- it was a stark contrast to the roar of gunfire and the missile alert system.
“Alright, Mobius One. Get back to base..”