Saunders ARC Part 3
The morning after Virtanen and Kaiser's "clash" as the two had referred to it, the announcement was made of the soon to be coming battle, plans for preparation and the less than favorable deadline. Mixed reactions were given as expected and even with the minimal focus on bonding, the reactions were spread throughout teams more than individuals.
Those under Knight's leadership had nervous, shocked, or face's of doubt. Virtanen's men were left confused but hopeful thinking that whatever their command thought must be best. Sokolov's men had nearly all blank looks unaffected by this and a few with scrunched brows trying to comprehend what to do. O'Diveley's team all had grins not a single one disappointed, except for the fact that they had to wait for a fight. Finally, Kaiser's subordinates much to his relief and surprise had mirrored his expression, unimpressed, there was only one who had not attempted to hide her distaste. Which is why Kaiser had found himself having to speak with the young women when she refused to keep quiet.
The small infraction ended with both parties unsatisfied and the girl's younger sister having to calm her. Kaiser kept his composure but a worry arose in his mind. A rebellious attitude was a vital weak point that he did not want any enemies to exploit. This small situation was far from over. With a sigh of resignation, Kaiser knew he'd have to solve it. "I'm going to actually be sociable enough for this girl". Kaiser dreaded having to actually speak with her let alone the fact she had been giving him malicious looks since the day teams were ever formed. I've never been a fan of cliques but at least all the other squads are of similar minds. Regardless of his gripes, Kaiser knew he had to correct her attitude.
A week had passed since the events at Saunders leaving one week left till the agreed upon scrimmage. However, even with the increased urgency training had not increased in time nor amount of sessions instead the training regimen had not changed in the slightest. That being said at the end of every session Virtanen and Kaiser would always assure that everything was going as scheduled Kaiser was sitting on a barrel inside the hangar looking through the roster of his team and their bio's, as he sat waiting for the very people whose picture's he was looking at, to arrive for practice he stopped on one individual's face Natalya Prokov.
Kaiser let a heavy breath out. This girl and her sister just had to have been the second and third in command for my squad. Perhaps I shouldn't have based positions off of qualification contemplated Kaiser. No, I can't risk efficiency simply because I'm not good at interacting with others thought Kaiser scolding himself. He shut his eyes and the roster simultaneously letting a sigh slip as his posture relaxed slightly, "I suppose I'll have to be professional about this and talk to her personally he contemplated.
The Hangar door let loose a loud echoing creak at which Kaiser straightened himself and hopped off the barrel onto the chassis than to the ground. Watching his subordinates walk in each squad walked in with their perspective tank teams except for Natalya who unless she was in a vehicle was with her younger sister Valerya.
Kaiser rehearsed the facts he had gathered on the two girls in his mind as the small formation of 14 students stood before him. Virtanen had decided by himself that it would be more efficient if all squads had different start and end times during the morning and afternoon sessions and would rotate daily so that all individuals could work on small unit movements personally and utilize the school's full training grounds. The idea was approved by Kaiser who was honestly surprised by the amount of thought Virtanen had thrown into planning and strategizing since they had left Saunders. It only helped to reaffirm his previous thoughts on his old acquaintance.
Alright, today we will be working on small unit formations and how to assist the main force if necessary announced Kaiser. Our priorities are speed control and maneuvering of the vehicles he continued. Any questions? Kaiser was left with a brief silence that was disrupted by a quiet click of a tongue and a set of rolling eyes. Yes, First Sergeant Prokov? Is there something you would like to add? Asked Kaiser looking at her with irritation.
The girl who Kaiser was now conversing with was 1st Lt. Natalya Prokov. A female of Russian descent who held a long set of light brunette hair and light brown eyes to match. She stood taller than most girls at 5ft 8in and found usually with a frown and her younger sister of the same grade (their birthdays landed them within the same school year making her somewhat older than her peers). Her stature, grace, and (for the males) her bust and curves made her a quick favorite amongst males and females both, many students refer to her as our school's own personal Nonna (she doesn't take kindly to the well-intended nickname).
Natalya was taken aback at being heard but soon replaced surprise with her usual disapproving face. Actually, there is Sir she spat with a hint of venom. I find myself compelled to ask why we must force ourselves to continue this amateurish training when we have an enemy or rather impending DOOM she said stressing the final word. Kaiser's eyebrow rose slightly higher. Sir, she added hesitantly but showing no sign of backing down. Very good deduction Sergeant Prokov congratulated Kaiser. Now would everyone like to know why that is? Kaiser received a few hesitant nods and looks of worry.
It is because one must learn to crawl before they walk, and walk before they run, is this not the truth? Asked Kaiser of the entire squad. He received more nods in understanding. Now to bring this to our squad and individual level said Kaiser slowly as he turned his gaze to Natalya before continuing. We've barely begun to master the basics of crawling and were expected to run a figurative race next week. This may be to see our skill as a tankery team but that does not mean defeat is acceptable. Fancy theatrics don't claim victory proven tactics and discipline do. We have an accumulated 38 days and 220 hours of work together, now I understand that you are quite the decorated cadet as per your transcripts Prokov. Yes, sir, i have practiced the basics to near perfection so why don't we- BUT interrupted Kaiser. Not everyone here is a senior nor as experienced as yourself.
Kaiser took a short breath before beginning again, some are freshman and some are seniors who never had the chance to participate in this sport till 2 months ago. Sir that may be but I- Natalya tried to get a word through but Kaiser was not finished. I'm almost done Sergeant, now instead of rushing for your own enhancement why not assist your peers and their performance so that they may reach your level and trust me you will enhance yourself as well. After all, that is our duty as leaders. Natalya's eye's widened but quickly turned to a look of anger, understood she spat as she walked off to stand by her sister who looked on worryingly. Kaiser let a small sigh, too small to be heard by anyone, escape his lips. Now then if that is all let's begin with practice. The squad of cadets gave a concerned HOOAH before rushing to mount their vehicles.
The practice had gone as Kaiser anticipated decent in every aspect except for a lack of communication from First Sergeant Prokov. He now sat in his self-designated seat in Virtanen's office thumbing through his phone waiting for Virtanen and his squad to finish their practice. An hour and a half after Kaiser's practice ended Virtanen strolled through the door to the office undoing his collar. Virtanen looked into the room and saw Kaiser not reading a book as usual instead he was thumbing through his phone. Well, this is a rare sight said Virtanen taking off his jacket and crashing into his seat leaning back.
I did say that I was going to have even less time now that the season has officially started responded Kaiser. So where are the other three? O'Diveley seems to have dragged the other two off somewhere saying that he needed to know he could trust his cohorts answered Virtanen. His team was behind him so I believe we can safely assume that he'll loosen their lips first then see how cooperative they are chuckled Virtanen as he propped his feet on his desk. I swear it seems like only you and I use this office he griped. Anywho I have news. Would you like to hear it? Asked Kaiser.
So I've heard. How is it with the elder Prokov girl? Taunted Kaiser now leaning forward onto his desk with an eager , I'm glad to see you so eager because first, that is not the news and second I received Saunders official reply. Kaiser pointed his phone screen in Virtanen direction.
Kaiser now leaned forward with a serious expression on his features. What did they say? He asked hesitantly. Kaiser turned his screen to himself and began to read the email. "From Saunders academy Commander Kay to Lieutenant Colonel Kaiser of Transcendence. Saunders academy's senshado team formally accepts your proposed skill assessment test in hopes of improving both schools relationships with their sister naval vessels and the individual student's let a relieved breath out.I'm not done said, Kaiser, as he continued.
Seeing as how we were the ones requested to attend we ask of you to please accept our own terms and conditions as follow. 1-The match is fought fairly with 9 vehicles V.S. 9 vehicles with no added gear or supplies (such as surveillance planes/blimps) or other weaponry to gain an unfair advantage, this is after all a sport and not war. 2- The event is held at Yellowstone Park, Washington. If these stipulations are met then we shall look forward to meeting you on the battlefield within the week please respond as soon as possible, Kay, Saunders University Commander.
Well then...should we agree to their terms? Asked Virtanen. Kaiser set his phone down and thought for a moment. As if we could refuse now. We suggested this match to evaluate ourselves and seek improvement. Perhaps more importantly to make a name for ourselves. I don't believe we have a choice then, agreed Virtanen. I'll send a response immediately then nodded Kaiser.
A moment of silence passed and as Kaiser sent the response Virtanen thought it was appropriate to ask. So are you willing to tell me about the Prokov situation? He asked looking at his comrade. At the mention of the incident, Kaiser slumped his head and dropped his phone onto his lap. I am at a loss for what to do. She really is intelligent and ambitious but as for her wisdom. Well, it could use improvement. It's as if she is a racehorse with blinders on. Only forwards never aware of what's around her.
I heard from a little bird that she tried to start an argument in front of her peers and you shut her down immediately. Teased Virtanen with a grin. Let me guess piper? Guessed Kaiser. Virtanen's grin faltered into a slacked jaw. H-how? Asked Virtanen. She's the only one who would be in the hangar when another squad is there. I doubt anyone in my squad would speak of internal affairs to others, and finally don't think I'm stupid I know you've been talking to piper outside of school. Kaiser placed his chin in his hands and continued talking. You've been trying to get close to her. Smart but you have better keep just friendly Virtanen.
At these words, Virtanen flushed a tad bit and tried to set the subject back on course. So let's talk about your girl problems Kaiser. Ah right, right I suppose I will have to speak to her in an environment where I can ease her into speaking freely said Kaiser aloud in free thought. As far as I can tell she seems to have something akin to a grudge against males.
What evidence do you have to support that? Inquired Virtanen. She kicked every males arse in the squad besides my own deadpanned Kaiser. Granted she had happened upon some of them grappling in free time but when one made a slight remark about her joining and groping her bosom, well a bystander had to come find me. Very well then said Virtanen surprised. Not to mention in the middle of practice she had forgotten to turn off her mic when she was venting to her sister on what she assumed was an encrypted channel said Kaiser now rubbing his temples with his thumb and index finger. How'd that go? asked Virtanen grabbing a coke and popping the cap off on the side of his desk. Kaiser noted the many scratch marks on the side of the desk showing his peer still drank far too much soda. Well, I'm now positive she was the one who used a flurry of colorful language during orientation sighed Kaiser.
Perhaps it is time to start a new training regimen? Suggested Virtanen. Not till after our first match responded Kaiser. They have to excel in the basics before they learn anything fancy and I plan on us doing more intensive personal and team-oriented activities but it is in due time. How is your team performing? Asked Kaiser in return. Virtanen scratched the back of his head as he summarized his thoughts before speaking. Individually our skills are lacking but the teamwork is there. It certainly helps our fluidity. Virtanen let a small chuckle slip then downed the rest of his beverage. From what I can tell it seems me, you, and Knight are all to be the team's going continued Virtanen standing up. Kaiser rose as well and agreed. O'diveley and Sokolov's teams aren't, perhaps "cohesive" is the right word? The two then made their way out of the office and their separate ways home without much else to be said.
Knight may be hesitant and lacking in confidence but his squad is more than willing to make up for that. They all stand ready in support of him, I'd even say that his team is the best when it comes down to working in tandem listed Kaiser mentally. O'Diveleys team doesn't take practice seriously while being ignorant of wide strategy planning. Sokolov's is too cautious to act unless they are certain of the circumstances as well as having hardly any communication between vehicles. These thoughts plagued Kaiser as he scrutinized every detail of information he had gathered and observed. These thoughts of teams and how high schoolers would let their simple emotions run the course of their actions caused him an agonizing headache until he heard a loud echo reverberate through the empty schoolyard.
Kaiser approached the school's shooting range and cautiously approached the barbed wire fence separating the school's grounds from the schools recreational shooting facility. As he rounded the corner of the fence he peered through the mesh wire and saw Natalya lying in the prone with her own personal rifle. *crack* The rifle fired hitting its mark. Kaiser shifted his gaze at what she had hit, the target was a silhouette that had the entirety of its forehead erased almost as if she was coloring in the lines with lead but what caught his eye was what she had added to her target via sharpie. Kaisers trademark indifferent look changed to a frown as he confirmed with his own eyes once more that she had added a black commander's cap to her target. Kaiser looked upwards at the bill of his own cap and back at her target as she let loose a few more rounds.
Well at least she had the decency not to shoot the cover muttered Kaiser. I suppose it's time to head home. Kaiser turned around as Prokov reloaded not noticing his presence or his leave. Kaiser made his way home once again contemplating on much more than he believed anyone around his age should have to even think about, let alone decide upon. After his schoolwork, paperwork pertaining to the match and a quick hour of exercise his final thought's of the night as he prepared himself for sleep was upon the small infraction of the day and how to handle it.
If I don't give her any leeway she'll make herself my enemy, too much however and she'll abuse it. Ugh, perhaps mediation is another thing I'm no good rolled onto the cooler side of his pillow and in the darkness saw glanced at his family photo one of the only decorations hanging on his wall. A thought struck his mind as he closed his eyes ready to drift asleep. Perhaps her sister can enlighten me somewhat. With that as his last thought he gave up and did what calmed him most and that was sleep.
Kaiser awoke at 4:30 and completed his usual morning routine out the door in no less than ten minutes. Although this was the time he usually awoke it had it's own purpose for all other cadet's as well. Practice began at 0530 ended at 0700 in the mornings and began at 15:30 ending at 18:30 after school. Kaiser walked to the school grounds and entered the hangar with his own personal key. One of a set of five for all commanders. As he entered he saw Sokolov sitting on a barrel and scrolling through his phone.
What attracted Kaiser's eye was the fact that he was wearing the school's average uniform apart from the tankery teams average black designated uniforms. Grey trousers with a black stripe on each leg and vice versa a black jacket with grey highlights that included a high "leatherneck" collar. The uniform was meant to be similar to the U.S. Marine Corps dress blues. The final touch being a dress cover in grey with the school's symbol in black. (The females uniforms are similar with few differences as they wear black jackets with an open neck and grey undershirt with red tie. Trousers are optional for females but the standard grey pleated skirts with black side stripes were the vast norm. Black, white and to an extent red legwear were also authorized. No student wore the cover's because they were only necessary during important ceremonies and hair regulations were rather lenient for most students allowing somewhat long hair and "excessive" hair.)
The reason Kaiser had found this strange was that practice was usually held in their Black SS uniforms (occasionally wearing more field durable gear such as their field tunics and such) to which Virtanen had secretly called his "slave" uniform in the company of Kaiser only. These uniforms held strict similarity to those of the 20th century with the only difference being the females with their black skirts. Since practice was held at the beginning and end of each day the school granted permission for the Senshado team to wear the uniform during the school day so as to be more convenient for the participating students. This drew the current question, why was he in average attire while Kaiser stood in his designated uniform?
Bit early aren't you Sokolov? Asked Kaiser. Sokolov looked up with his ever-present look of disinterest and slowly put down his phone leaning forward onto the drum. No, not really, I just figured I would spend time with my vehicle. He responded simply. Kaiser's interest was now raised. Rather tedious work for someone of your interests don't you agree? Asked Kaiser as he took off his coat and began to prep his Tiger. Sokolov turned his head to follow Kaiser as he roamed over to his vehicle. I suppose it might be but I'd rather have a full understanding of my vehicle than nothing at all. Responded Sokolov who was now back on his phone. Kaiser had entered the commander's hatch and began to fiddle around. He popped his head back out to look at Sokolov and saw he indeed was looking up historic battles and stats of his vehicle, not just his own but his entire teams varying vehicles and their history.
What brought on this change of heart? Kaiser asked working while speaking. Sokolov did not divert his eyes from his phone either and merely responded. My team and I get along but we don't speak much. A small silence began but Sokolov spoke once again it's somewhat bothersome but I'd rather we know each other and perform to our best so that way we can actually perform in the next battle. Kaiser hummed once Sokolov was finished. Well, i'm starting to believe perhaps your team should have been placed on the roster to fight instead of mine. The sudden break of character and revelation of his thoughts caused Sokolov to turn his head with a raised brow. Not that Kaiser noticed as he was now in his own thoughts while working.
Where are the others? asked Kaiser after a few minutes of silence had passed in the garage. Sokolov gave Kaiser a questioning look before answering. O'Diveley had informed the entirety of the cadet's that there was no practice today. He had stated that the cadet's had worked so hard that they deserved a break and that even though you disagreed Virtanen strong-armed you into agreeing.
Banuelos released a sigh letting his head drop almost hitting the tank's steel. That explains why Sokolov's not dressed. He really needs to work on his lies but I'm sure everyone believed him because they wanted a break stated an annoyed Kaiser. Sokolov agreed then simply shrugged and remained silent.
More time passed and Sokolov stood to take his leave. Before exiting he caught Kaiser's attention "Don't forget Virtanen actually did cancel practice because we have assessment testing today". Sokolov then closed the door after him as he left. Kaiser had not responded but widened his eyes instead. "Crap" he muttered looking at his phone. Not a single message. I know it's my fault, forgetting I'm a scholar but damn it would be good if people told me these things ahead of time.
Kaiser rested his head on the turret ring as he sat upon the turret. Oi! Kaiser! Came to a shout from behind him. Kaiser turned his head and saw Knight making his way through the door. I thought you might be here. After all, Virtanen said he hadn't seen you this morning. Didn't you know about our testing today? Inquired Knight. Kaisers responsive look was incredulous, to say the least. No you see I completely remembered after all I have on my plate is to plan an unofficial school match, training, and gear for the cadets. I just had so much free time I slept through the announcement retorted Kaiser secreting sarcasm. Hey, I tried to message you defended Knight. Without glancing, Kaiser showed him his phone with no notifications on it.
Well...tried, perhaps it slipped my mind Chuckled Neria as he scratched his cheek awkwardly. It's not really his fault you know chirped a happy voice behind Knight. Kaiser slightly shifted his weight to look past Knight who had spun around to see Valerya Prokov standing behind him smiling. We didn't get the message either continued Valerya raising a hand. Kaiser and Knight looked even further away and saw Natalya leaning against the T-34 at the front of the hangar looking away.
Well, I suppose we could work on passing word through the ranks better laughed Knight awkwardly. Eh-heh well I'll be going to get some chow I will talk to you all another time. Knight then rushed out of the building looking at the ground leaving the three of them. Valerya! Said Natalya, sternly I'll be heading to class now, I trust you can handle yourself? At her last words, Natalya glared at Kaiser who simply returned a look with of boredom. I will Nat, so go on. Encouraged Valerya. Natalya then made her own quick exit leaving just Kaiser and two made eye contact and simply stared at one another.
The younger sister stood much shorter than her sister at 5ft 5in. The differences continued from there on. Valerya had blonde locks that were not quite as long but stopping in the middle of her back. She also held green irises with a smaller, rounder face. Her personality also differed greatly seeing as how she was very outgoing and although around her sister for a majority of her time, was still often seen conversing with friends and teammates usually gossiping. Her popularity seemed to have been amongst the highest in the school judging by the number of fans she had constantly speaking or fawned over her looks. The one difference that most students noticed between the two beside a few facial features was that their body's proportions were nearly similar except Valerya naturally was smaller due to her size.
Valerya was the first to break the silence. My, my, eyeing a woman before you make a move? How flirtatious. The smaller girl grinned as she saw Kaiser shift and raise a suspicious brow at her. I see you like to catch males off Guard stated Kaiser unphased resuming his previous stance. I like to call it a simple quirk she giggled into a raised hand. Once Valerya had stopped she made eye contact again.
"I need to talk to you," the two said in unison. Kaiser kept his demeanor however he was surprised to see she needed to speak as well. Valerya, in turn, had raised her own brows now. I assume this isn't to ask me on a date this is over Nat, isn't it? Apparently, the younger Prokov sister is a psychic is that how you gather your gossip? This drew a small huff from the girl before Kaiser continued. Very well let's talk at lunch if that's acceptable suggested Kaiser. Hm, Natalya won't like that said Valerya pondering. But I can make an excuse. Very well then meet me at the range shed once the bell rings. An inconspicuous solitary place? Very bold she giggled rest a palm on his chest. Upon seeing Kaiser's unaffected face she turned to a small fit of laughter. You are just as interesting as my sister she continued to laugh patting his shoulder. It's a date then she agreed to make her way out.
Kaiser watched her leave then glanced at his own watch and decided it was time he left as well. Before shutting off the lights and the door to the building Kaiser glanced at all the vehicles. Why can't people be like machines? He asked himself. Tanks don't have to deal with all of this. And with one final sigh of the morning Kaiser's day officially began.
Kaiser went through his first few class periods as usual (sleeping) after the short testing in each class and awoke as the lunch bell rang. Slowly standing and gathering his things he told Virtanen he had plans for lunch and that he would speak with him later. Virtanen barely acknowledged him as he made his way out of the classroom to get food for himself. Kaiser certainly noted how he had lost interest once cadet Piper had walked past their class door.
Kaiser skipped lunch and decided to head straight to the shed. If I finish with Valerya soon enough I may be able to take another nap thought Kaiser as he made his way through the school halls drowsily. Kaiser finally came upon the range shed and pulled his personal key out to unlock the door and to his surprise, he saw the smaller girl standing inside looking at the various weapons locked in their cages. How did you get in here? Asked Kaiser closing the door behind him. I asked the janitor to open it Natalya replied her hands clasped behind her back as she leaned closer to observe an anti-tank rifle closer. Apparently, he can't refuse a cute girl she chuckled. That so? Asked Kaiser nonchalantly although in his mind he was writing a mental note to check the janitor's background.
You know Nat was pretty hurt I said that I was leaving to get some help with homework. She thinks she can solve all my problems but she doesn't even know how to solve her own. Grinned the little girl mischievously. And so you've come to try and solve hers? Deduced Kaiser eyeing the small deviant. Her eyes gained a sharp edge to them before softening again as she spoke. Kaiser made note of the girl and her subtle actions.
.
Before we start our conversation one question said Valerya. That is? replied Kaiser.
Why are all the weapons locked up?
For safety of course replied Kaiser
Then what about that shotgun in the corner that has a plaque overhead reading "for staff only"
Oh, that's in case we lose a key and have to break a lock he answered.
Isn't that unsafe?
I don't follow what you mean Kaiser sincerely answered. We have a multitude of emergency lock openers
Right… lock openers...anywho let's begin. Valerya noted herself she should probably check his background herself before she continued her own agenda.
Alright, then you start first said Kaiser. Ever so polite grinned Valerya. Well, let's take turns asking each other questions she suggested with a radiant then let me ask, began the short girl pausing as she thought of how to word her question. What do you think of my sister?
Kaiser was intrigued by the question being over his thoughts of her sibling. She is a fine girl I'm sure however it is clear she has a problem with authority. Whether that be me personally or for another reason remains to be seen answered Kaiser promptly.
The smaller girl gave a short hum and decided to push further. What do you think personally? I believe you're not following your own rules now, are you? Questioned Kaiser. True, but you just asked one didn't you? She grinned mischievously. I believe you just did as well sated Kaiser watching the realization hit her. Now then I'll ask my question.
As I've said it remains to be seen whether the problem is with leadership or me so which is it? Asked kaiser watching Valerya rock on her heels in boredom.
If I had to say it would be more likely that she looks up to you in a certain way but she has trust issues. So she doesn't like me as a person is that it? No not at all, defended Valerya. Also, that's two questions in a row you know she informed with a cunning grin. Kaiser thought of protesting but instead rolled his wrist signaling her to continue.
So back to me, she declared. She began with a soft hum and stared at a rifle that had caught her attention while she thought of her Question. Why do you care about her? She asked expression turning from her soft easy going smile with a frown showing mild concern. I've seen you try to speak to her and you and the occasional glance, but you don't show any concern or at least none that I can see. And I tend to believe I can read others rather well.
Kaiser watched the younger girl stare at a rifle as she unlocked the cage and opened it taking an SKS and pulling the bolt back as she slowly caressed the stock inspecting the wooden finish. He saw her concern hidden but evident enough in her eyes and voice. I see now. Someone used her as a tool or at the least played with emotionally stated Kaiser confidently. At his words, Valerya's eyes darted at him. He continued uncaring for the angered look on her face. Her trust betrayed and by someone close no doubt. Valerya nodded her head reluctantly to his words. Kaiser let a small sigh escape his lips before he answered. I don't care about her. He answered. Valerya's gaze returned deeper as her brow creased with growing spite evident. I understand I am callous and many perceive me to be somewhat cold continued Kaiser playing with the words she spoke. However I do care about my mission, you and your sister are vital components to the success of it and I will not fail you less I fail myself.
What is your mission then asked the small female now choosing her words carefully? Kaiser closed his eyes and answered. My long term is not your concern however my short term is to lead a successful unit that leaves every battle as closed to unscathed as possible. For that, however, I need both of you and your sister's cooperation. You don't need to like me but I need you to understand your values to me finished Kaiser. Now if you don't mind me asking what precisely occurred for your sister to hold such a deep-seated spite towards others? Valerya uncomfortably averted her gaze.
Valerya took her time contemplating whether to tell him or not but she decided it was better to share information rather than withhold. Natalya had a relationship with a peer of hers that she admired began know that we are second years and well that we transferred from Kuromorimine. Well, to clarify the middle school we came from before then was when this were close and she confessed they got along marvelously but after our final year had ended she found him with another individual...from another school.
Scheiße, Scheiße, Scheiße Kaiser mentally cursed himself. I stepped into one hell of a minefield! and of all people I had to be the one to land on it, ME the number one person who hates working with other people's emotions! Kaiser stopped where he was and took a moment to think as Valerya looked away slightly ashamed to speak of her sister's private life. Kaiser merely decided to apologize for the awkward atmosphere he had unintentionally brought. Valerya merely shrugged it off and continued.
To worsen matters when she confronted him he had turned their peers and fellow schoolmates against her under the accusation that she was jealous and trying to slander him. Naturally, it blew over especially with how popular my sister was but the event still left its stains. At the final words, Valerya held the rifle firmly to her watched her gaze shift and he decided against his rationality to pry. He found another girl to entertain him? Kaiser asked treading carefully
It was a guy...actually Valerya answered quickly.
"Prokov" Kaiser attempted to say her name as gently as he could to seem supportive. Listen to me carefully. Valerya lifted her head and instead of the stern gaze that was ever present she saw eyes that had softened to an almost normal, near caring feature. I am not a perfect person but I take my affairs very seriously. All the training and every match is a simulated battle to me. He took a short breath before continuing giving him time to think.
Every friendly vehicle knocked out is an entire crew I lost because I made a mistake planning. A failure on my part. This has been my thought process since I took command of the infantry program in my middle school two years ago and simply because we're on tracked vehicles does not mean it has changed.
Valerya loosened her grip letting the rifle hang somewhat loosely while she looked up at Kaiser. Fine, then she stated looking at him astounded by the slight show of emotion. I'll believe you for now. But onto my next Question. What do you intend to do with my sister? She asked with a suspicious look.
What do you mean? He asked
Well, it's nothing insulting it's just that you seem rather popular amongst even foreign schools your cold demeanor seems to even add fuel to that fire. She stated as she turned her back to him and raised her hands in an "I don't know" gesture.
Is that so? asked Kaiser surprised by the revelation placing a hand on his hip and the other under his chin. Though he feigned to take interest in this his disbelief showed through
Valerya looked over her shoulder and saw his contemplative look. You really didn't notice?! Shocked Valerya leaned towards his face with her index finger pointing at his forehead. I thought it was just an act to look cool or you were trying to make yourself some kind of playboy!
"Oi," Kaiser interrupted her proclamation of personal observations. It's rude to point and second, I'll have to be inclined to take that as an insult. As he spoke he put his own finger on her forehead and pushed her back out of his personal space.
AHHH! That's not this isn't the point! Your attitude the way you act, it doesn't make sense for you to be so concerned! There has to be some ulterior motive.! Do you li- Val!
Val! Shouted a voice from outside the building. The two shifted their eyes towards the door that had been left cracked open.
Valerya's eyes widened as she realized who had called her name. Hide! She warned Kaiser as she started pushing him away from the doorway and into a storage closet. Why? Asked Kaiser as he allowed the smaller girl to usher him away. It'll be simpler just avoiding early confrontation! Kaiser looked back at the top of her head as she strained pushing him. No, I actually think it would be easier to explain. Too late for that! She chastised with one final shove and shutting the door behind him.
Inside of the dark and cramped 4ft by 5ft closet was shelf with cleaning equipment and fluids for the building and weapons alike. In the corner were extra keys on a hook and in the opposite corner were spare brooms and mops. In the center of the room was a small light but the switch remained outside and turned off. Along with the janitorial supplies were extra locks and other equipment piled around, hence the cramped space. Kaiser heard the front door be opened and Natalya scold her sister for simply vanishing on her as the bell rang. Kaiser kept his ear close to the door. And listened in.
Why did you run off and to here no less? Questioned Natalya crossing her arms and shifting her weight to her hip. Valerya was making eye contact and walking around in the moment of silence. I wanted to check out the rifles here she said quickly. This raised Natalya's suspicion. Why? you could have come after school with me or I could have even lent you my own key the faculty lent me. Valerya took a moment to respond and after a short pause replied. Ah well, you see I wanted to use my own key. Inia then raised a key hanging off her finger by the loop.
Kaiser felt his pocket and noticed the missing key "that little minx…" he scowled quietly noting how fluently she lied and tried to manipulate her sister's thoughts. Natalya accepted her answer but eyed the rest of the small building. Scanning over the many cases and cabinets holding a multitude of weapons and munitions. Natalya slowly walked to a roster reading over the recent entries. Valerya watched her closely and glanced at her surroundings to make sure there was no evidence of Kaiser's presence.
Sadly there was. Kaiser had been rushed to the closet and wasn't given time to retrieve his cap. Valerya swatted it behind a counter in a rush. Natalya looked at herself and saw Valerya's body extended with her left hand outwards. What are you doing? Asked the older sister. Oh, i'm just reaching for my key.I dropped the younger sibling. Valerya then walked around the counter key in hand and pretended to retrieve it showing it to her sister. Natalya let the action pass.
Natalya continued to examine the building for a couple of minutes with Valerya observing her movements her hands clenched behind her back every time her sister walked near the janitorial closet but her key smile not withering. Cryska then set her eyes upon the closet with suspicion. Looking for something Valerya asked cocking her head to the side. No, Well, I heard a few students say that they saw a certain male had followed after you out here, they were quite a buzz about it. Natalya answered her suspicion abuzz. Valerya stiffened slightly but not to Natalya's notice as she was fixed in the closet. Oh well, no one's stopped by here at all smiled Valerya. Natalya made to open the closet door. Valerya in a panic thought of a distraction.
You know The LtCol was asking a LOT of you earlier in the garage! Valerya announced rolling her eyes over her shoulder as she grabbed her sister's outstretched arm. At the words, Natalya grabbed the handle and looked back at her sister grasping her , Why? What would he want with me? Asked Natalya as she gave the stiff doorknob a shake and it refused to budge. Natalya looked at Valerya who raised both hands. I don't know and I don't have the key for the closet either answered Valerya.
Kaiser slowly released the doorknob he had been holding firmly against Natalya's force. Natalya gave one final over but accepted her sister's explanations. After all, why would her sister lie to her? Sorry, Val, it's just that this wouldn't be the first time I caught you alone with a boy. Aren't you worried that the others might call you a flirt? You're the last one to give me advice on public image deadpanned Valerya through gritted teeth.
Let's finish lunch together then, sound good?asked Natalya. Sure thing just let me lock up agreed Valerya. Cryska made her way out and Inia locked up the rifle as well as shutting off the lights and making to close the door. Before Inia shut it she leaned in and quietly apologized. Valerya whispered hurriedly so as not to draw her sister's suspicion. "Sorry Antonio! I'll make it up to you another time. Heres some advice though, talk to her after school on the range, she'll be easier to deal with then. The door then clicked close but opened once more. Oh, and I'll collect my final question another time!
Kaiser did not respond to her words and instead waited until he was sure they were long gone and out of hearing range. Since when did I tell that her to call me by my first name? Kaiser pondered. He made to open the door only for it to slightly moving not giving anyway. Great, she actually locked it he mentally complained. Kaiser tried each of the keys in the corner of the room but to no avail Well I can't call for help everyone should be heading back to class and as if I'd want anyone to know I got locked in the range shed Kaiser reasoned with himself. To make matters worse I'd never hear the end of it from Virtanen and O'Diveley. As Kaiser thought of his escape he noticed an object hidden by the brooms in the corner. Ah, good thing we invested in these. Kaiser picked up the collapsed shotgun and pumped it. And Prokov couldn't comprehend the use of an emergency lock opener.
Kaiser after "unlocking" the door he was trapped behind made his way back to class before the bell ended lunch hours and as Mr. Pokorski called his name off of attendance Kaiser simultaneously crashed into his seat. I didn't get to sleep during lunch after all kaiser groaned into his arm.