Alright! I WANTED to update this chapter, on the Christmas Day or at least my Birthday, the day after Christmas, but no I kept telling myself to write just little more... well without further a due, here's my next chapter.
Since the last chapter I keep getting more followers or people add my story to their favorites. I truly love you all my readers! Thanks for all the support.
Disclaimer: I don't own the Strike Witches series, it is fully owned by Shimada Humikane, Noboru Yamaguchi and Gonzo Animation Studios, I don't own anything owned by any Armed Forces, any car company, any aircraft, Apple/Microsoft, Call of Duty. Pretty much, if it isn't one of my OC's, I don't own it.
Warning: mentions of underage drinking, language(as in cursing), sex, violence, scenes of death, scenes of torture, common military slang, nudity, time travel, plot loops and holes, OC's. Be warned. In every chapter it might contain different themes. I will give out warnings before the chapter starts so you'll know what's to come. So if you are disturbed by the themes then I recommend the readers not to continue.
Themes: scenes of death, violence, military slang
Chapter 7 – I Won't Forget You, I Can't Forget You
Location: Folkestone, Britannia; inside the hanger
Inside the 501st Joint Fighter Wing's base the mechanics were working on the girls Striker Units. As the same time, Carlos, while listening to "One Mic" by Nas through his ear buds, was doing the same with the boys Jet Strikers Units. Occasionally some of the mechanics would give Carlos a few glances, as he worked on Units. They were truly surprised that he could work on their Units all by himself, and not looked one bit puzzled by anything that would look to be an error. As Carlos and the mechanics were close to finish, they decided to take a little break. Leaning against the nearest wall, a water bottle was dropped in front of him. Catching it, he thanked Alejandro, as Alejandro jumped down from a steel beam. Opening their bottles, they both toke a few drinks before two of the mechanics decided to join them.
Being in the hanger most of his time, Carlos was able to befriend the mechanics, but even though they had become friends, Carlos could only give them some knowledge about him and his squad mates due to most of their profiles had to be kept classified, and also it had to be known to them that their presence being in the base was to only be kept in the base. The mechanics were a bit skeptical about Carlos and his squad mates at first, but slowly started to grow on them, mostly due to the fact that Carlos would sometimes help out the mechanics with any errors that they would encounter with the girls' Striker Units. Mechanics will be mechanics, one could guessed.
Daichi Sasaki, who originated from Fuso, and Jayden Smith, who originated from Liberion, were greeted from the Wizards. As they talked, mostly Carlos, Daichi and Jayden talking about the Striker Units, which confused Alejandro, and eventually making him daydream about a certain Witch. As the little group's time went on there was eventually laughs mixed him their conversation, and very interesting topics about their lives in the near future and if they were going to share it with someone special. At times they would ask about 'Sara', but only give them little details, as the rest he could only say that 'it had to be kept classified' and even if it had to, Daichi, Jayden, and the rest of the mechanics didn't want to keep questioning it any deeper due to fact that they didn't want to jeopardize their friendship with the Wizards.
Soon their conversations had slowly died down little by little and everyone had gone back to work, well everyone but Alejandro, who was lean against the wall near Carlos. As they close to finish, footsteps were heard come from outside the hanger. Looking up Alejandro saw Yoshika and Yashio walking side by side. He also saw that Yoshika was holding a tray of goodies, making him smile, snack time. As they got close Yoshika held the tray up a bit higher, "Thank you for always being so helpful!" this caught two of the mechanics attention, "I made some sweets. Please have some!" that said Yoshika smiled that she held the tray out to them.
The two mechanics hesitated a bit, but soon went back to work, catching Yoshika of guard. She started to think that maybe they had a lot of work to do and couldn't take a break yet, but Carlos and Alejandro clearly knew that that wasn't the case, so why didn't they take up on Yoshika's offer? Was it because of Yashio was in their presence? Rumors had been going around the workers, which had been kept away from the world outside, but mostly away from Minna, that the Wizards and Witches were in love relationship.
"U-Umm, these are traditional Fuso sweets…" Yoshika said trying to show that she was grateful.
And still the mechanics had kept on working, making Carlos paused form his work, and made Yashio and Alejandro slightly glance at the mechanics. The Wizards started to think that the mechanics had ever been this rude to the Witches in the past. The fact that since Carlos had starting talking to mechanics, they never brought up a topic about the Witches, it was mostly one of the Wizards that had brought up a topic about them that the mechanics would eventually started talking about them, but even so they would eventually change the whole topic to something else. It never really stuck to Carlos as something an important matter, maybe because he had thought that they were shy to talk to the Witches, but right now that didn't seem to be the case. Yashio started to get impatient and was about to say some, but before he could one of the mechanics spoke, "I'm sorry," he paused what he was doing and continued to speak, "Commander Minna has forbidden unnecessary conversation with the Witches,"
Hearing this got the Wizards tense up a bit, and confused Yoshika. Looking at one another, the Wizards could only wonder as to why would Commander Minna forbidden anything like that? Once finished with the Striker Units, Carlos and Alejandro were left alone in the hanger questioning about this, and maybe getting some kind of logical reason. As for Yoshika and Yashio, Yoshika decided to ask Lynne about this topic, and Yashio felt like he should let the girls have their girl's time, instead he decided to walk around the base thinking about it want the mechanic had said. As he stopped, he crossed his arms and looked out the window in deep thought. He wasn't sure why he was taking this into deep thought, but for him something just didn't feel right. Just as he was about move on, he heard someone call out his name from behind. Turning halfway he greeted his squad mate, Kenny with Perren.
Outside on the balcony, Perren and Kenny felt like they needed to get Yashio out of the base. As they were outside a gust of wind blew by them, "Feels great, doesn't it?" Kenny asked.
"Sure does," Yashio said as he felt relaxed. As he remembered about the hanger, he decided to let Kenny know, "Say, Kenny-san. I went in the hanger with Yoshika earlier, but…"
"Yeah? It's no wonder why Perren and I couldn't find you. You out scoring some bonus points," Kenny laughed. As he waited for Yashio to say something, but Perren could tell that Yashio was serious, and Kenny soon did. Looking out into the ocean, he asked with a serious tone, "I see, so this is a serious matter…"
"So that's happened," Perren said as he took in all the details Yashio had given them.
"I don't see why Commander Minna would make such a rule," Yashio said as he looked out into the ocean.
"I don't have slights idea, but I think I know who might, our very own Squadron Leader," Kenny suggested, but even so, he was still confused as to why, "But even if we did asked him, why? This could make sure that Yoshika was your girlfriends,"
"I still don't like it… Should we report this to Commander Adolfo?"
They knew that their Commander would take this as a serious matter. As they continued to think about it, they suddenly heard what sounded like a ship. Turning around they could see that it was indeed that it was a ship, and by the looks of it, Yashio could tell that it was one of his past homeland's ship, the Akagi! Taking one finally look at the ship, the Wizards looked at one another knowing that they had to get inside before anyone on the ship could see a couple of boys around the Witches ages' hanging around the HQ.
On the highest point of the base Commander Adolfo and Squadron Leader Lars were looking down on the Akagi. Adolfo knew that if his squad were to see anyone from outside the base that they should be in the base hidden at all times. Still, he had asked Lars to report to the Storm Wizards, some like, Yasuo couldn't get the report, so Kazuo had to make sure to keep alerted. Keeping an eye out was pretty eye for him, but making sure that Yasuo wasn't about to be disturbed and hoping no one was about to enter the room by any reason was going to be a problem. Luckily though, it would seem that he could only see a few of the crew on the Witch's HQ. One of them, who Kazuo could easily identify as one of his past homeland's Captains, was in the office with Commander Minna, Major Sakamoto, and Miyafuji Yoshika. For now things seem to be okay, making Kazuo stay relaxed.
In the hallways of the base Yashio, Kenny and Perren, were walked around the base. Their surroundings were quiet and it made them feel a bit negative about it. Today felt like something had come out of the skies and just dropped on them, making them feel like they were caring something that felt like guilt, but why? They went on the saw Yoshika and Lynne, making Yashio lightly smile.
"Leave it to Yoshika to make Yashio smile," Kenny said as they stopped and looked outside. Looking down at Lynne, he to smiled, "and leave it to Lynne to make me smile, as well,"
"I'm starting to think that Commander Adolfo's experience is a effecting us. Even if some Wizards, like Kazuo, doesn't show it, I'm starting to believe that we may just indeed feel some kind of connection to these girls,"
"Don't go attacking Kazuo, now Perren. He's not the only one, so are you," Kenny smirked.
"I don't know what you're talk about,"
"Sure, you don't,"
While Perren and Kenny were talking to one another Yashio turned his attention towards Yoshika. As he was lost in her cuteness, suddenly there was a crew member from the Akagi. Watching carefully, he could slightly hear the three out. As the young boy was in front the girls, mostly Yoshika, he held out a letter. This made Yashio feel a bit uneasy, still though, he knew that he should never have any kind of feeling that would lead to jealousy. After all, Yoshika wasn't officially his girlfriend, so there should be no reason for it. Commander Adolfo had told them this in their time period. Which really confused the whole squad, as to how could this be useful in battle against the Neuroi, Commander Adolfo would reply back with a simple "it's not". Continuing to watch, he could see Lynne leaning close to Yoshika, mostly likely she was whispering that she should take it, and he was right as he saw Lynne taking Yoshika's box. Looking at Lynne, Yoshika blushed, turning to the young boy, she was about to take the letter an unexpected gust of wind blew the letter out of the young boy's hand, making the two run after the letter. As the letter flew away it luckily landed between the cracks of two bricks. Having the same idea to retrieve the letter, both of their hands made contact making them get taken back as they blushed. As they looked at another, the winds blew again making the letter get carried away, but was caught by someone unexpected, Commander Minna.
Yashio could clearly see that she was not happy. Listening, he could hear out that something like this was strictly forbidden. Soon after he could hear out the young boy saying that he only wanted to thank her, and Yoshika soon after defended him by saying that he hadn't done anything wrong. Looking at Minna, he saw her walking towards them and heard that useless rule, 'Unnecessary contact with the Witches is strictly forbidden', with that Minna handed him the letter back. Grabbing it back, he apologized and quickly ran away. Looking down at what had just happened Yashio, as well as Kenny and Perren felt like something was not right. Not knowing that some else was watching as well, he decided to get to the bottom of this.
"If you'd like, I could tell you what had happened myself, Commander Adolfo," Lars said.
"Thanks, but no thanks," Adolfo said as he lean against the wall in the living room, "I don't want Commander Minna to think anything bad about me. I want her know that I'll there for her if she needs me," with that said he walked anywhere he could be alone to think about this problem.
As he walked across that hallways, Adolfo started to get lost in this thoughts, but strangely he was remembering about his homeland and the Neuroi that made contact with it.
Just before Adolfo was contacted that his homeland was hit by the Neuroi, he and his squad were on a mission to assist another Neurois Division Wing Task Force that were in need of serious assistance. The Neuroi had been highly active lately and things were getting out of control. Once they reached their destination they were greeted by the Wing Commander of the Wing Task Force. It seem they got just in time as they saw the rest of the squad shooting down Neuroi down and being shot at as well. Quickly the 141st Wing Task Force joined he fight.
"Thank you, Commander Adolfo. It looks like we're starting to get the upper hand on these Neuroi,"
"Don't mention it. The 141st will always be here to assist our fellow WTFs,"
As soon as the Wing Task Forces were getting the upper hand, Commander Adolfo got a distress call from Mexica. A group of Neuroi had breached Mexica and was under heavy fire, and the part of Mexica that was hit with no mercy was where Commander Adolfo was living. In an instant Adolfo was at full speed heading to Mexica's aid. When he finally was reached Mexica, he slowly watched in horror as he could only see fire. As he continued to look, he paid all attention to his Mansion, quickly he flew towards it.
Snapping out of his thoughts, Adolfo was back in reality. Looking around he noticed that he was near Commander Minna's room. Wanting to see if she was in her room he was about to knock, but then heard Major Sakamoto's voice. Leaning against the wall near Minna's door, he listened.
"I heard what happened," Mio said.
"Mio…" Minna said, as he hear that she turned to her.
"I heard you refused to accept the letter,"
"Those are the rules,"
"You still can't forget?"
Hearing this made Adolfo tense up a bit, 'Forget? Forget what,' Adolfo wonder.
Standing up, he started to make his way to his favorite spot, hoping that maybe if he was alone to think, he could get together some answers. Outside, the night was fairly warm, making Adolfo feel at ease. As he stood silently, he calmly took in his surrounding, as he crossed his arms and closed his eyes. Slowly opening his eyes, he began to think about Minna. Just what made her become what she is today, but oddly enough he felt like he was connected to it some way or another, he just had that feeling he did.
"Minna…" Adolfo whispered to himself, 'just what happened, I should let you know, shouldn't I?'
"Yes?" a voice was heard from being Adolfo.
"Commander Minna, is there something I can help you with?" Adolfo asked as he slightly turned his head, "I really do hope it wasn't a bother to look for me,"
"Not at all, I happened to bump into Major Lars," Minna said, "I only wished to see you. With the Captain here, I knew that you and your squad had to be kept hidden,"
"I see," Adolfo said calmly, "… Commander Minna,"
"Yes?"
"I've been hearing that there has been a rule going by, involving the Witches,"
"Unnecessary contact with the Witches is strictly forbidden. That rule?"
"… Yes. Why? Why does such a rule exist?"
"I'm sorry, Commander Adolfo but I don't see where are you going with this," Minna looking in the ocean blankly, "I recall that I did indeed let you and your squad to interact with the Witches,"
"True, but you also said as long as we don't intimate with them," Adolfo could feel Minna had tensed up when she heard this, "then I hear about this rule... Commander Minna..."
"I thought we had agreement, Commander Adolfo?" she quickly interrupted him. Turning to him, she looked up at him, making Adolfo turn his head to her, "So in the end you lied," quickly she turned her back to him, making Adolfo get taken back. He knew right there that he had messed up. Holding herself, she slight whispered to herself, "You're all the same, you promise something then lie in the end," getting herself together, she continued, "What else did you lie about?"
"… Minna," Adolfo gently said as he reached his hand to her shoulder, "I won't lie to you. It is true that my squad may have an interest in your squad, but you need to understand that love is something that can't be dealt with alone or that can't be forgotten, but I did make it clear that they will not intimate with them, and as much as they would like to they won't because they know that was an order," by now he hand both his hands on her shoulders, "I may not know the cause of these rules and I don't intend on finding out by asking Lars," at this point he was holding her close, trying to comfort her, and to his surprise she didn't resist, "But, know this I will always be by your side to help you anyway I can. Neuroi or not, I'll kept my word and more," hearing this she slowly began to shed tears.
As he descended, he quickly got out his unit. Running to his home, he quickly looked around for any survivors. As he approached his front yard he noticed someone lying on the ground. Getting he noticed that it was a young girl around his age wearing a white dress. Holding her close he began to check if she was ok, as he did the young girl slowly opened her eyes, and gently smiled when she saw his face.
"… Adolfo… you came after all…" she weakly said as she reached out to touch his cheek.
"I'm sorry I wasn't here soon," Holding her hand close to his mouth, he slowly shed tears, "Please don't leave me," with her unfading gently smile, she slowly close her eyes, "… No… No…"
"Angelia!" Adolfo shouted as he jumped up from his bed. Breathing hard he looked around and found himself in his bedroom. Looking towards his window, he could see that it was morning. Pulling himself together he got out of bed to start his day. Putting on his clothes, he toke one final look at himself in the mirror. Opening his door, he locked it and closed the door behind him.
In the hanger, the all of the Wizards were hang out. Everyone seemed to be having a goodtime just chilling out, everyone but Lars who was getting worried about their Commander. Looking at Lars, Carlos sighed as he asked 'Sara' if she could turn down the volume. Hearing Carlos, 'Sara' did as she was told. Thanking 'Sara', Carlos turned back to Lars.
"Major Lars," Carlos slightly shouted. Lars turning to Carlos, waited for him to speak, "Kazuo made it clear that Commander Adolfo is sleeping. Just relax, there's nothing to worry about,"
"I understand," Lars said as he began to recall another time Adolfo had over slept, "but Commander Adolfo never oversleeps,"
Carlos shaking his head 'no', was about to say something but was stopped as he saw their Commander approaching them. Turning to Lars, he proved his point that there was nothing to worry about as he was stand before them. Getting front and center, Lars saluted his Commander and gave a welcoming 'Good Morning'. Looking at Lars, Adolfo simple nodded. Walking pass by him, Adolfo made his way towards a wall as he lean against it. Everyone noticed something off, normally their Commander would be full of energy but today they could see that he was completely exhausted, maybe was still tired.
Walking closer, Yashio called out to his Commander, "Commander Adolfo you looked tired, bad dream?"
Hesitatingly, Adolfo looked at his squad, "… if only it was just a dream… "
Hearing their Commander, got all of them facing him, as hanger soon after went complete silent. Some lowered their heads as they clearly knew what their Commander talking about. It was that horrifying event that had accorded in Mexica. Not being able to take it any longer, Alejandro jumped off the steel beam, landing on the floor causing everyone to look at him. Slightly looking at the ground the boys could see that he was shedding tears and at that moment Alejandro quickly ran away. Seeing Adolfo called out his name to wait. Sighing, Adolfo knew it was useless at this point to try to talk to his brother.
"Gomen'nasai, Commander Adolfo. I didn't mean to… " Yashio hesitated.
"No," Adolfo said as he still looked at the direction Alejandro ran, "It's alright, I know you didn't mean anything like this to happen… I shouldn't have brought it up,"
"What should we do about, Alejandro?" Carlos asked.
"The best option we got now is to let him be," Adolfo said as he crossed his arms, "I pretty sure he still blames himself for Angelia's death,"
"I miss Onee-chan," Yasuo said, just talking about Angelia made the whole squad think about the good times they had spent together.
"Don't we all," Kenny said sadly as he looked at the floor.
As the day went on the Wizards' hang out in the hanger soon disbanded and were walking around the base, finding any they could do. With the crew from the Akagi still outside the Wizards were only allowed to be in the base. As things seemed like it was going to be a long boring day the siren was heard and everyone quickly gather in the meeting room. As Adolfo arrived see saw all his squad accounted for as well as the Strike Witches. Walking to the front of the meeting, he stood next to Minna.
Seeing as everyone was here Minna began, "Reports indicate the enemy is on its way here from Gallia,"
"I guess the predictions were right again for once," Mio said with a smile.
"Yes. It's currently flying at 15,000 meters and heading straight for this base,"
Stand from her seat, Mio got up front of the meeting, "All right. Our routine intercept pattern should suffice," taking out a paper Mio had, she held it to her and began to read it, "Today's team will consist of Barkhorn and Hartmann at the front at the fore and Perrine and Lynne at the rear. Miyafuji be direct support for Minna and me. Shirley, Lucchini, Eila and Sanya will remain at the base on standby!"
Just before Mio finished Adolfo looked at Lars, letting him know that it was time for their squad to know who shall be going and who should stay. Knowing this Lars got out of his seat and stood in front of the meeting. As soon as Mio finished, Lars began, "All right Storm Wizards, our squad will consist of..." hearing Lars talking about the Storm Wizards taking action, got some of the girls confused, "myself, Perren, Kenny, Yashio, and Commander Adolfo. I will be at the front with Barkhorn and Hartmann, Perren and Kenny at the rear with Perrine and Lynne. Yashio and Commander Adolfo will be direct support with Sergeant Miyafuji for Commander Minna and Major Sakamoto. Carlos, Alejandro, Kazuo and Yasuo will remain at the base on standby with the remaining girls!"
"Okay Storm Wizards, you heard your Squadron Leader. Let's get to the hanger, ASAP!" at that instant the selected Wizards got out of their seats and ran towards the hanger. Looking around, Adolfo saw the rest of the his squad. Alejandro was sitting with Lucchini, Carlos was sitting with Shirley, Kazuo was sitting with Eila and Yasuo was sitting with Sanya.
"Holding down the fort! Holding down the fort!" both Alejandro and Lucchini happily sang.
"Guess I'll tune my unit's settings…" Shirley said as she stretched. Looking at Carlos she asked him, "You wouldn't mind giving me a hand, Carlos?"
"Not at all," Carlos said as he smiled.
Yasuo and Sanya were both happily sleeping as they sat with one another, both hugging their pillows, and Kazuo seeing this got out of his seat, said, "I guess I'll carry Yasuo to his room," leaving Eila the table to herself.
Looking at one another, Adolfo and Lars began to make their way towards the exit, but before did, he stop next to his little brother. Looking at him, he asked, "Are you going to be ok?" looking at his older brother, Alejandro smiled as he gave him a thumps up and said that he would be fine. This surprised Adolfo, he didn't except that Alejandro to be so cheerful so soon. Before he could ask again, Lucchini walked up to Adolfo, telling his that she had found Alejandro sad and helped him to cheer up. Hearing this, Adolfo smiled, "Thank you for watching over him, Lucchini," with that said, Adolfo and Lars continued their way towards the exit, but before they could go any further Minna spoke causing Adolfo and Lars to stop.
"Commander Adolfo, you can't leave the base," Minna said as she was a few feet away from them, hearing this Adolfo turn to face her, "If you leave someone will surely see you."
Smiling, Adolfo walked up to her and placed his hand on her shoulder, "There's nothing to worry about Commander Minna," she couldn't believe what he was saying, "With my ability we be able to get by pass anyone undetected," Minna started to thinking about it and Commander Adolfo never really did tell the able himself, "I'd love to tell you about my ability, but with ever second passing by we're giving the Neuroi time to advance,"
"Commander Adolfo is right. Alright Strike Witches! Get ready," Mio said.
As the two Wizards and seven Witches made their way towards the hanger they saw that Yashio, Perren and Kenny in their Units as they hovered in place, waiting for their Commander and Squadron Leader. Quickly making their way towards their Units, Adolfo and Lars jumped in and were greeted by 'Sara'. As the two greeted 'Sara' back Yashio, Perren and Kenny hovered their way towards them.
"Alright let's get going. It's been sometime since I worked with Perren," Kenny said excided, "We never got to show these past Neuroi our fireworks, did Perren?"
"I don't recall showing them," Perren said thinking about it. Hearing this got Perrine and Lynne curious as to what they meant by 'fireworks'.
"Alright Storm Wizards stay close," Adolfo said as this squad hovered a bit closer. Turning to the Witches, who were already in their Units, "We'll be outside in the skies away from the base waiting for you girls," with that said Adolfo closed his eyes almost as he concentrating, and suddenly the Wizards were gone in an instant causing the Witches to leave them baffled.
As Commander Adolfo said, the Wizards were outside in the skies away from the base. Waiting for the Witches to arrive Squadron Leader Lars asked Commander Adolfo if he was ok. Using his the ability to slow down time can take out of him, let long bringing others with him. Commander Adolfo responded with a smile and a thumps up, as he said that he was ok. Seeing this, this was the only one thing he didn't like about his Commander, he would never show his squad mates that he was exhausted by over use of his magic, unless he would collapse from using nearly all of it. He didn't like it when his Commander would push himself that it could get him killed. Lars started to think that the whole 141st Wing Task Force didn't like it.
Just the Strike Witches could be seen coming their way. Slowly hovering away from the Witches, giving them some starting speed, Lars quickly told the boys to get ready. As soon as the girls had caught up to them, the Wizards were at sync speed with their partners. As they continued, Mio quickly advised that a Neuroi was sighted, and Minna turned to Mio asking the type of Neuroi it was. Determining, Mio moved her eye patch and with the use of her Magan she was able to tell. Once confirmed, everyone increased their speed and soon saw that it was a giant cube. As they closed, Lars and Hartmann took aim, but before they could fire the Neuroi divided itself into many small cubes causing everyone to be taken back by the surprised.
"Lower-right, 80! Middle, 100! Left, 30!" Minna advised as she used her ability, surprising Adolfo.
"210 total," Mio said as she smiled, "This is going to turn into a medal of honor spree,"
"Yes,"
"So, what's the plan?"
"You look for the core," Minna said as she looked at Mio. Understanding, Minna tuned to Barkhorn, "Barkhorn's tram will take the middle," hearing Minna, Barkhorn understood. Turning to Perrine, "Perrine's team will take the right," at that moment Perrine understood her orders, "Miyafuji and Yashio, you two will act as direct support for Major Sakamoto," understanding, Mio turned to Miyafuji, "Listen! Your job is to keep the enemy away from her at all costs until she locates the core!" with that said Minna charged in with Adolfo following close behind.
Charging in, Minna and Adolfo showed off an amazing display of teamwork. Just when Minna started to feel that she was alone in this fight, Adolfo would appear next to her, supporting her all the way. Continuing flying towards the group of Neurois, Minna and Adolfo would avoid in coming enemies and fire as they flew by but at most of the time close to shooting a few down or at least slightly damage it. Getting a few seconds of break from their fighting, they both looked at one another's eyes, thinking how amazing the other was, and just before they got back to the fight Minna could see Adolfo smile at her at the very last second, causing her to slightly blush. Following behind, Barkhorn, Hartmann and Lars came in charging as they counted their kills. Dodging and countering with a few rounds after.
"… That's ten down!" Hartmann shouted.
"… Twelve for me!" Barkhorn shouted.
"… Fifteen!" Lars said as they faced each other's back to one another.
"Looks like this is a good chance to really up our scores… " Barkhorn said as she turned her head to Hartmann.
"Yeah, it's been really slow-going lately!" Hartmann said as she smiled. As soon they finished a group of Neurois flew at them, causing them to split up and continued with their fight.
With Perrine, Lynne, Perren and Kenny things got interesting for the four. Kenny, hovering in place, he turned to Perren and nodded. As Kenny toke aim, Perren closely placed his right hand next to Kenny's McMillan Tac-50. Closing his eyes, Perren looked as if he was concentrating and soon opened his eyes as he slightly shouted 'Rafale'. Turning to Kenny, Perren told it was ok for him to fire, and at that instant Kenny fired, destroying a Neuroi in about a less than three seconds. It surprised Lynne, as she had never seen such marksmanship and the fact that he was able to do it so fast with a bolt action sniper rifle. As for Perrine, she was curious about what Perren said. Soon after Perren moved his hand away from Kenny's sniper rifle.
Looking at Perren, Perrine asked, "What did you do?"
Smirking, he looked at her, "All I did was use 'Rafale', an element base magic ability,"
"Element base? You mean like my 'Tonnerre'?"
"Yes, although I'm sure you are aware that 'Rafale' is a wind element, and with the use of it I could increase the rate of fire and range of Kenny's McMillan Tac-50. Now if I was to use a different element, one that you can get a better understand of, even you could do the same. Like so…"
Turning to Kenny, Perren nodded, letting him know that he should take aim. Closely, Perren placed his right hand next to Kenny's sniper rifle, again. Closing his eyes, he concentrated and soon opened his eyes as he slightly shouted 'Tonnerre'. Turning to Kenny, Perren told it was ok for him to fire, and at that instant Kenny fired. As the bullet made contact with a Neuroi, it destroyed it, and a sudden burst of lightning appeared soon after, destroying a total of five Neurois. Seeing this surprised the girls, but Perrine was the most surprised, amazed at Perren's potential. Glancing at him she left strange, a feeling that she had never felt towards any boy, but she wasn't unsure what it could be.
Noticing that she was looking at him without saying a word, he asked, "Is there something you'd like to ask?"
Snapping out of her thoughts, Perrine replied as she blushed from embarrassment, "… Ah… I was just thinking how you are able to do such a thing?"
"I'd like to explain, but now isn't a goodtime. Even so, I wouldn't recommend you to do it, as it requires intense magic control," hearing this, Perrine slightly lowered her head as she felt that he was saying that she was weak, "If you don't have a problem with me training you, I could show you," looking up at him, she accepted his offer. Perren looked at both Kenny and Lynne, and told them to cover Perrine and himself. Kenny and Lynne looked at one another as they smiled and nodded, and then looked at Perren, nodding as they understood their orders. Knowing that Lynne had her back, Perrine rushed in with Perren following close behind.
Getting close to a group of Neurois, Perren could hear Perrine say, "Using this always makes my hair so uncooperative afterwards…" breathing in, almost as if she was charging up, she shouted, "Tonnerre!" and soon after a her body was surrounded by lightning and was quickly discharge from her entire body, destroying the group of Neurois that surrounded herself and Perren.
Before coming to stop she made a front flip with her becoming a mess. As she was trying to fix her hair, Perren hovered behind her and got her attention by say that he knew a way to prevent her hair from becoming a mess. He soon after started to explain that did had to do with magic control, the subject he had talked about before, and with that said he decided to show her what he meant. Concentrating, he slowly move his index and middle fingers from both his hands in a circular motion, and soon after he tapped his four fingers together causing a burst of electric sparks. As Perrine studied him, she was in a daze. Looking at him, as he was looking for a group of Neuroi, Perrine could help but truly admire him. Just how strong is this Wizard, Perren Duvernay. To her, she felt like Perren was Gallia's future prodigy and even maybe… past. So what was she? So many thought ran through her mind, just who was she? Could she really save her homeland from the Neuroi hive?
Find a group of Neuroi, Perren told Perrine watched carefully causing her to snap out of her thoughts. Aiming his index and middle fingers from his right hand, he shouted, "Tonnerre!" and soon after his fingers were surrounded by lightning, and a straight line of lightning was shot from his fingertip, destroying the group of Neurois. Quickly finding another group he did the same with his left hand. When finished he turned to Perrine causing her to look up at him, he smirked. Reaching his hand out, Perrine mind became cloudy as she hand no idea what he was about to do. Gently placing his hand over her cheek, he commented that a noble lady like, herself shouldn't looked like she had just got out of bed, running his finger through her hair caused her to blushed. As things seem unlike them, a gunfire was heard, and a two Neurois were destroyed soon after near both Gallians causing them to get back to the reality. Looking towards Kenny and Lynne they saw them aiming their sniper.
(Perren)[Intercoms] "Thanks for the save, Longshot."
(Kenny)[Intercoms] "Hey, anytime. We're on the same team after all. It just sucks though, it was getting to the good part."
(Perren)[Intercoms] "If you say anything…"
(Kenny)[Intercoms] "Hey don't worry about it. I did say that we're on the same team, but it's not like it matters, after all the Storm Wizards all listening."
Watching from afar Yoshika could see how amazing everyone was. As Mio continued search for the core a small group of Neurois were heading her, Yoshika and Yashio way. Before the Neurois could any closer Yoshika was able to shoot all but one, as it was avoided her fire. When it go close enough, Yashio toke this opportunity to rush at it and display his sword skills, destroying it. Looking at one another Yoshika and Yashio smiled, and Mio, still in search of the core, told them to keep up the good work. Staying focus, both students quickly looked for anymore threat heading their way.
As the fight went on, Lars was having his hand full pursuing a group of Neurois while being pursued himself. While he chased the Neurois got a glimpse of Hartmann being chased herself. Only thinking about Hartmann's wellbeing, he quickly turned to destroy the Neuroi that were pursuing him letting the one he was following go. Making his way to Hartmann's side, he could see that she was able to trick the Neurois that were chasing her, giving him the chance he need to destroy the them. Hovering to her all he could do was asking if she was ok. Smiling, she replied that she was fine. Sighing in relief, he was glad that nothing bad had happen to her. Soon after Barkhorn came rushing in while she was shooting just behind them. Looking around them they saw white shards that belong the Neurois that Lars carelessly let free.
"There's no end to them," Hartmann said as she backed up to Lars' back.
"We just need to hold on a bit more," Lars suggested.
"Which one is the core?!" Barkhorn said as she backed up to the two.
With Commanders Minna and Adolfo they decided to make their way towards the Mio, Yoshika and Yashio. Regrouped with them, Minna hovered her away to Mio as she asked her if she had located the core.
"No Luck,"
"Could this be another diversion?!" Minna thought as she tensed up.
"I don't think so," Mio said as she turned to Minna, "I can sense the core. It's just not inside that swarm,"
"I didn't know had Yasuo-san's ability?" Yashio said as he turned to his grandmother, "Speaking of Yasuo, he would have been able to sense the core in no time flat, if he was here,"
"You're not helping," Mio said as she continued searching for the core.
"I was only saying,"
"You know as well as the rest of us that Yasuo was tired from his night duty," Commander Adolfo said looking at the swarm of Neurois, "This doesn't look good, the battlefield is changing location…"
"Yes, we're approaching land…" Minna said as too looked at the swarm.
Looking at the swarm carefully, Yoshika started to think about what Mio had say earlier, 'If the core isn't in this swarm of Neurois then were could it…' that's when she had an idea as to where the core might be,"Above!"
Hearing Yoshika, even one turned to the direction she faced, and surely enough there was a group of Neurois. They were standing still using the sun to their advantage, blinding anything that would dare to look up. Mio trying her best to look past the light shouted, "Damn! I can't see!"
"I'll get them!" Yoshika said as she rushed at them. Hearing Yoshika, Adolfo shouted Yashio's name to assist and protect her. With that said Yashio understood his orders and quickly followed her closed behind. Being spotted the Neuroi rushed that the students as they fire their laser. Just as Yoshika was about to pull up her shield, a different shield was pulled up. Looking to her right she saw Yashio, as he told her to focus everything on shooting the Neuroi, he would make sure they no one would harm her. Nodded she turned to the Neurois began to shoot them one by one. Raising up their guns, Minna and Adolfo assisted the students. Continuing there fire a certain Neuroi block was able to slip by them, but wasn't able to slip by Mio.
"Is that it?" Minna asked.
"Yes" Mio confirmed.
(Minna)[Intercoms] "Attention, all squad members! Enemy core located! We're going to take it down, so keep the others off of us!"
(Adolfo)[Intercoms] "Storm Wizards, be advised! We have located the enemy's core! Be sure that the others don't interfere!"
(Strike Witches)[Intercoms] "Roger!"
(Storm Wizards)[Intercoms] "Understood!"
With that said the Minna and Adolfo's group were on pursue with the core. Flying to it, they headed into the clouds, and as soon as they got to the other side they saw the Neuroi that held the core. Aiming down their sights, Minna and Adolfo began to shoot the Neuroi down. Support them, Mio, Yoshika and Yashio soon after began to shoot it down. With every shot the Neuroi was getting fired at, it surprisingly dodged all of them. Thinking that the future Neurois were the only worth a challenge, this Neuroi block proved that even a past Neuroi can keep up it the Wizards. Adolfo started to get a curious that if this was going to become a problem to them. Still firing, the Neuroi falling in to a trap was shot by Yoshika's shooting, although luck for it, it took only minor damage, and with that it was able to flee before it could take anymore.
"Don't let it get away, Miyafuji, Yashio," Mio shouted as she saw it fleeing.
"Right!" both said in a union as they began to make chase of the Neuroi. Looking at Yoshika, Yashio made sure to let her know that he had her back and to focus everything on shoot down the core. Understanding Yashio had her back, Yoshika began to shoot the Neuroi, but was only able to slightly damage it every now and then. Seeing this, Yashio encourage her to focus, and with that Yoshika took aim, trying to get a lock on the Neuroi. Locked on she fire with everything she had, and finally able to shoot the core. As the Neuroi was destroy the three Witches and two Wizards pulled up their shields due to the shards from the Neuroi were heading down to them. Blocking the shards Minna was able to get a glimpse of Mio's shield slightly break from the shards and cut a strand of her hair. Eventually things started to calm down, and Adolfo let out a sighing of relief.
(Adolfo)[Intercoms] "Storm Wizards, all hostiles have been erased, good job."
"You're amazing, Yoshika!" Lynne shouted as she flew to her and hugged her.
Getting close to the two, Perrine turned her back to the two as she said, "That was only a fluke,"
"No, it's quite difficult to hit an erratically moving enemy." Barkhorn said as she hovered near Yoshika and Lynne.
"You're great, Miyafuji!" Hartmann said as she smiled.
"D-Do you think so?" Yoshika asked.
With the boys, everyone approached Yashio, "Now that's the way to protect your girlfriend," Kenny said as both Kenny and Yashio bumped their fists.
"Hai," Yashio said as he smirked, "It was nothing… Hey!" finally realizing what they had just said.
"You want Commander Minna to hear you?" Perren said with his arms crossed.
"I didn't even say it that loud," Kenny said as he lightly laughed, "Oh, and Yashio, you didn't even try to deny it,"
"Let's drop the subject before anyone hears," Lars said as crossed his arms, getting an ok from the three boys.
Looking down at the land, both Strike Witches and Storm Wizards attentions were caught by the shards that came from the destroyed Neurois. Thinking about it Perrine commented that even beautiful flowers have thorns, and Hartmann could only agree that she was referring to herself. Hearing this, Perrine got upset, telling Hartmann that she was being rude, but even so Perrine did agree that Hartmann was right about the part about being beautiful, and Perren couldn't help but to thoughtfully agree. He would admit to anyone that she was beautiful, it was her thorns that he really didn't like, from the very beginning that's all it was. As the group was listening to the two playfully argue, Minna couldn't help but to look down on to the land and eventually descend. Adolfo saw this and quickly followed her. This eventually caught everyone's attention as they didn't have clue what had just happened. Wanting to know where Minna was heading to, Hartmann was about to follow but was stopped by Lars, he suggested that they should let them be for now. Hartmann was about to object, but Mio suddenly agreed with Lars. Looking at the land Barkhorn really realized where they were, it was Pas-de-Calais.
Once the two were on the ground, Adolfo decided to give Minna some distance to herself. Watching her carefully and for anything that could be hostile, he saw her getting into a car. Standing all by himself, Adolfo felt like it had been several minutes since Minna got in the car. Feeling like Minna wasn't going to come out for another few minute, he saw her getting out of the car with a package, confusing Adolfo. As she approach her Striker Unit, she was surprised to see Adolfo there waiting for her. Looking at her with a comfortable smile, he asked her if she was ready to head back. As Minna looked up at him, she felt in pain, not physical pain but emotional pain, lowering her head she nodded.
(Minna)[Intercoms] "We're returning to base."
(Adolfo)[Intercoms] "Storm Wizards, RTB!"
(Strike Witches)[Intercoms] "Roger!"
(Storm Wizards)[Intercoms] "Understood!"
Back at the base it was late evening, and in the hanger Perren stood there silently by himself with arms crossed. Deeply breathing in and out, he felt at ease by himself, and as he felt like this was about to last forever he started to hear footsteps. Turning to them, he smirked as he knew what this Witch want to know. Turning back to look at the outside, he asked, "So you want to learn my techniques?"
"Yes," was all Perrine could say.
"Ok," Perren said, "I'll explain everything to you about my ability," turning to face Perrine, he started, "I have the ability to change my magic into any element I may choice, so far I can use three type of elements. Fire, Wind, and Lighting, 'Incendie', 'Rafale' and 'Tonnorre'," moving on, he started to explain about magic control, and how it can help in many ways, "The way you use your 'Tonnorre' isn't bad, it's actually the best for offense and defense," continuing on, he explain about how she can train herself, "All it takes is concentration, concentrate your magic to arms to your hand and finally your fingertips. By doing so, not only did you achieve to direct your 'Tonnorre' but also learn to control your magic, although that the easy part," hearing this Perrine felt like that was hard to do due to the fact that she had never done that, "The hardest part is learning to direct your magic to something that you can't see," at that moment she knew what he meant, "If you wish to learn how I was able to make change Kenny's ammo into an element, you can do it to, but the problem is that you won't be able to see the object. Of course it was no easy task for me as well. What I did was actually take Kenny's sniper apart, learn about his sniper inside out, and even after that it still didn't make a difference. I had to learn to make sure that I didn't explode the bullet in front of our faces," looking away he sighed, "I wouldn't recommend you trying it out unless you know that you are ready,"
With that said, Perrine nodded, "I will,"
"Okay, then let's head back before anybody starts to get the wrong idea," said Perren as he started to make his way back, but before he could go any further, Perrine asked if he could get to know him a bit more, "You mean, my past?" he asked, which she nodded in return, "Sorry, that's something I'd like to keep to myself,"
Inside the living room, Minna was singing and Sanya was playing the piano as the Strike Witches, Storm Wizards and mechanics were listening. Kazuo and Yasuo stood close to Eila and Sanya; Carlos sat with Shirley; Lars and Hartmann stood next to Barkhorn, smiling at one another; Alejandro and Lucchini laid on the couch together; Perren and Perrine stood next to each other; Yashio and Kenny were standing next to each other as they waited for Yoshika, Lynne and Mio; Adolfo was leaning against a wall close to Minna. Suddenly Mio, Yoshika and Lynne enter the living and Yashio and Kenny walked to them, then turned back to Minna, just before she finished. As Sanya's playing came to a stop everyone gave a round of applauds.
"That was a very beautiful song!" Yoshika said as he looked up at Minna.
"Thank you," Minna responded with a smile.
Come from behind, Eila pinched Yoshika's cheeks, "What are you doing?"
"What about Sanya's piano playing?!" Eila asked as he continued to pinch her.
"It was very nice, too!"
Looking at Eila and Yoshika, Sanya smiled happily but soon her attention went fully to Yasuo as he stood next to her. Looking down at her, he blushed commenting that he really loved her playing. Hearing him praising her and blushed as she thanked him. With Adolfo, standing up he walked to Minna telling her that her sing was simply divinely. With that said she blushed as she slightly lowered her head, not wanting to be seen by Adolfo, although he could clearly see through that and lightly laughed, causing her to blush even more.
Nightfall came and Adolfo was in his room all by himself. Looking out his window he had one thing on his mind… "… Angelia…"
... Sighing... well that's all... until next time. ^.^
RTB -military slang-"Return to base"
