The two teams arrived at their designated starting areas both lying in open fields miles apart. The audience sat to the far north where terrain turned into vast hillsides granting them higher elevation as opposed to the densely wooded south. Only the occasional farmstead or small town dotting across the plains and hills accompanied the vast amounts of wheat and wild grass that littered the plains north of the woods. The only true urban environment was to the far northeast of the designated area or more precisely, the hosting city, which was deep within Pravda's starting territory.
The sun began its descent thus signaling the alarm for the events beginning. To the east, Pravda fired a flare showing their acknowledgment of the siren. In the west, a fumbling Virtanen fired a blue flare he regretfully had to ask Kaiser to prep. Though darkness would set in early this match it seemed to invigorate the audience that much more. The two flares were noticed by the cheering crowd and with their cheers, the match had officially begun.
On both sides, engines roared to life in a hurry as the steel creatures slowly moved about. As per Kaiser's designated plan, the transcendence team headed due east to reach a small series of hills.
These hills formed narrow passes while allowing them to overwatch on the majority of the terrain. The initiative here was to secure these vital points and force Pravda to suffer attrition in order to dislodge them from any vital areas of interest.
Seeing as Pravda held fifteen tanks to their own twelve the intent was to force Pravda to retreat before they could breakthrough. Thus eliminating the possibility of being overrun. This was, of course, wishful thinking on their part. Or so Kaiser dismissed. Each leader was aware, and prepared for alternate possibilities. The assumption was Pravda knew of the obvious strategic points or would even attempt the same tactic.
The column proceeded with haste, Sokolov's Stug IV breaking formation without notice, the second phase of the plan. His destination lay southeast into the woods where he would begin to skirt in the treeline. Deep enough to not be seen but still capable of peering through the brush. His fellow squad vehicles would act as support in their roles as tank destroyers to the main effort while he provided a more specialized role.
The stage set and tension high, some cadets tried to break it through the overbearing atmosphere with lighthearted humor. Even in Kaiser's vehicle.
As he peered to his left where a board with a surplus of maps, papers, and pens lay Kaiser waded through his thoughts. On the board was a list of all participating vehicles. Friend and foe alike. IS-3 and KV-8 were the two predominantly occupying his mind.
These two vehicles he was sure the enemy held in their hand with gleeful anticipation. It was as he was thinking over the possible tactical uses that his Driver 'West' spoke up.
"So who's ready for a turkey shoot?" he quipped. "What do you mean?" asked Katya their radio operator. "Our opponents are operating T-34's and the like. E~asy prey. Our only real worries are those heavys and that scary vice commander of theirs with her abnormal accuracy." West assured as if he knew how it would all play out.
Though it came across as simple bravado his words earned a couple of timid chuckles from the crew. However, his commander saw past his show. He was nervous. They all were. The hesitation in their voices, the wavering speech. it was more of a personal pep talk than anything but if it helped calm his crew's nerves Kaiser deigned not to interfere.
That was what he assessed, yet he didn't want them to be complacent due to their own hands either. "Quantity has its own quality and experience can render design and technology useless" he warned. Though he had no intention of spoiling their moods the previous somber and quiet atmosphere returned. Left only to be accompanied by the engines whir and the ever-present wind whistling against the vehicle's steel.
The lack of chatter in the vehicle seemed to only extend the time as radio silence was held. A necessary precaution yet one that seemed to make the mood near ominous. They needed to stay inconspicuous at least that was the goal until an unexpected noise broke the silence.
A lovely voice came upon their ears as it hummed an odd tune that most wouldn't recognize. Kaiser instantly recognized it, knowing it to be an old war song. Furthermore, he even recognized the voice regardless of their lack of interaction. It was cadet Bellamy, Luna. The RO for Sokolov's vehicle. With haste, Kaiser radioed Sokolov to inform him of the breach in silence.
"Nice tune" he began in a low voice intending to startle the girl with the unexpected response before a screech was heard causing him to wince at his headset. "CHRIST" came Virtanen's voice following the sound. He had seemed content to let the girl finish her hum until he received the high pitched scream.
"Sokolov make sure you maintain silence and please don't let her ever make that sound again." scolded Virtanen. "Apologies," said Sokolov with a fervently bumbling luna in the background before going silent once more. The words I'm sorry being repeated incessantly.
Kaiser ended his transmission as well dismissing the event. He was doubtful Pravda would be near enough nor capable of receiving and breaking their short radio transmissions and they were making a good pace to their area of operations.
Unbeknownst to him however and the entirety of transcendence Pravda had indeed done that. They had brought a PT-76 light tank for scouting as opposed to their usually strict heavy and medium tanks loadout. This vehicle having pushed far ahead of the others by chance happened upon an infernal screech and radio transmission.
Although they couldn't locate this Sokolov or the first person to speak, the one who had scolded the prior had spoken long enough for them to get an approximate location. The information being immediately relayed to their senior leadership.
/-/
A few minutes later Transcendence had reached their area of operations and began to set in. Quickly Virtanen and Kaiser directed the vehicles to provide them overlapping fire and cover from defilade.
Though their position lay in fields with hardly any trees and a few large hills to the north and south, the large grass and wild grain proved cover to nearly every vehicle and their silhouettes. 'Terrible positions for armor if this was an infantry match' scolded Kaisers more critical side as he became sidetracked waiting.
As he reminded himself of this new sport once more and its differences he reassured himself it wasn't as if they had to worry about infantry movements let alone any airpower other than the spectator cameras viewing them from above. No matter how many times he reminded himself the usual anticipation he always felt prior to a match began to well. He wanted a battle and Pravda seemed prepared to deliver. It was always the waiting that tortured him.
Kaiser's position was to hold the right flank, covering the southern hill and the expanse of land connecting to the nearby forest. Knight held the left flank and the plains north of the second hill. Virtanen meanwhile held the valley between the two.
His team placing one vehicle on each hillside to provide fire down into the valley while he sat further back in a command position and relative safety. To his chagrin being the flag tank took priority over being a front line skirmisher. Sokolov's squad operating without its commander provided support from the rear covering the valley's center nearby Virtanen to provide support should he be flanked or either side request aid.
In summary, the left flank possessed a Panzer IV, Firefly, and T-34-85. These mediums provided average fire and maneuverability should they head into the plains to maneuver.
The right instead held a Tiger, IS-1, and KV-85. The heavys holding the right flank in case Pravda should attempt a flank and a breakthrough in the woods. Sokolov would provide as early warning should that occur. Inlay the center a 44M TAS and ARL 44 aimed from the hillsides and a Panther with an added SU-100 and PZ sfl IVc (designated the "Flakpole" by its operators) aiming straight down the middle.
The formation kept even dispersion providing the capability for units to flexibly adjust should one side be battered more than the others.
Eventually, as expected the time came to test it. Through his binoculars, Kaisers spotted a small formation. Totaling three vehicles. Over the radio, announcing their types and course.
"Three enemy Vic's. T-34 variants. A single 100 and two 75's." He announced in short lengths of speech keeping the information brief and necessary. "Heading towards Phase line Gold (Virtanen's firing line) most likely a probe or simple advanced recon unit."
Against his loader and gunners pleas to give the order to fire Kaiser held his tongue. Knowing that allowing them to fall prey to a close-quarters ambush would provide greater results than engaging at their distance. Results won out against glory after all.
Silently they waited as Kaiser stood out his hatch carefully observing the distance awaiting any disturbance to occur. Unexpectedly it came inside his vehicle. The disturbance being his loader tugging on his blouse. "S-Sir do you think we can close the hatch or perhaps run the engine some?" Laura asked through shivering teeth.
Kaiser reluctantly shook his head. "Sorry, Laura but I'm afraid not. I understand your plight yet I'm afraid we can't risk concealment for comfort." Laura pouted at the lack of sympathy in his monotone voice but shrugged her shoulders. Attempting and hoping her short black hair would protect the nape of her neck from the cold draft.
Kaiser was thankful for her response seeing the differences of his cadets when they had first formed a team from their first meetings and now. She was the only one truly obstinate to his command but soon found herself willingly cooperating. Without force or intimidation to his surprise.
Seeing her accept his response without further question encouraged his confidence in their professionalism. He and his team were treated separately in and outside of their vehicle. Where they would be separated by their age and skill in scholastics, inside of their vehicle they were a cohesive and friendly group.
As if it wasn't obvious from the start it was clearly shown by their blatant concern for him when he was injured and afterward until he had healed. It pained him to keep them at an arm's distance seeing that they could be more individuals to trust other than just Virtanen and Kay yet he wouldn't allow friendships to be the cause of failure. Not like it had before.
At the least, the trend seemed to go further into friendships outside of the sport for all the other crews as well. Virtanen engaging in conversation with peers and juniors while O'Diveley and Sokolov would be centers of attention with their antics. The thoughts of his current peers seemed to contrast so sharply to just two years prior.
Banishing his thoughts of negativity and remembrance from his mind Kaiser reached into an empty compartment grabbing a small wrapped package. Shaking one he revealed it to be a hand warmer. Activating its chemical reaction Kaiser placed it on Laura's neck. As she let a shriek of surprise at the sudden heat escape her, the reverberations of explosions resounded from the far side of the hill. Kaiser passed out the warmers as he listened to Virtanen relay information.
"Enemy contact initiated- enemy casualties one T-34-75, remaining two in retreat via route of advancement." Kaiser held the headset close to his ear as he wrote the information down on the board as he relayed the same information to Natalya and Valerya directing them to prepare to engage.
As informed the surviving T-34 variants rounded the hillside in an open view of Kaiser and his team. Patiently they awaited them to reach the center of their firing line. On his order, they unleashed a volley destroying the 75mm variant. A second destroyed both tracks on the 100mm variant. And a final third volley sent a white flag straight up immediately.
"Excellent" Kaiser's thoughts were soon echoed by his crew's verbal approval. The match was perhaps nearing the end of its first hour and Transcendence held a strategic position while having eliminated a fifth of their enemy's units.
Though not a significant amount it still proved some value. Kaiser would not say he nor his peers reveled in their success but knowing that Virtanen was perhaps becoming aware of his incompetence in comparison to his directives, was by no means unsatisfying.
Thoughts of his competitive nature left once more as phase two began. "Katya prepare to depart" advised Kaiser. As he spoke his RO nodded in affirmation while throwing on a thick pair of gloves. While she prepared herself Kaiser radioed Natalya. "Sergeant Prokov, Prepare the flanking maneuver, ensure you have Lt. Frost with you as she'll prove pivotal."
"Jawohl" came the simple reply. The IS-1 heavy tank to his left lurched to life and began moving north. Once it had departed Kaiser opened and exited his turret. As he landed he turned regarding Katya offering her a hand down. The shorter girl took it exiting and dismounting the large vehicle with far more care than he. Kaiser turned to face his loader Laura who was now peering out of his hatch at them handing him a bulky yet 'portable' radio system. "You are in charge in my absence. Ensure that no harm comes to Rosa" Instructed Kaiser
Laura saluted Kaiser before letting it falter somewhat. "Rosa?" she asked aloud. "Short for Barbarossa. I thought it fitting if I were to name the vehicle given the current circumstances." He explained. "As an apology for not taking all of your opinions on the matter I'll hear your complaints later. I may even allow you to decorate her."
Laura nodded not being given enough time for a response before Kaiser departed with Katya in tow. 'Rosa huh?' she pondered over the simple name as she patted the steel behemoth before shivering and shutting the hatch behind her.
Kaiser paced his way cautiously and quietly through the forest taking time for Katya who was having trouble keeping pace trotting behind him not so elegantly. As he paused for her to close the distance he felt an odd comfort in leaving his crew temporarily.
'Laura will have time in between reloads to assess the situation while Belle and Westhoffen will be preoccupied firing and shooting. they should be fine' he reassured himself. The odd confidence he held in his crew strangely left him assured they'd be fine and with this assurance came his confidence in his task.
Katya finally caught up to Kaiser. Slowly she stood straight even as she panted heavily. Her hot breath causing large amounts of mist to dissipate in the cool winter air. "HAA-HAA- Sir - HAA How are you-HAA- so calm-HAA- after moving so fast?" She asked through heavy breaths attempting to compose herself.
Before responding Kaiser made to move again this time keeping a slower pace so she could catch her breath. "I'd say it's just years of practice and conditioning." He commented blandly watching the girl stand up straight attempting to steady her breathing as she set off as well.
"To be truthful I miss the sport and am starting to notice how my physical shape may be changing along with my extracurricular. I may have been adept at physical displays yet it shows now compared to previous feats from prior years." He informed gesturing at his forehead showing he was indeed breaking a sweat as well. Despite her still, unsteady breathing she pursued the topic not wanting silence to force her to focus on her struggling to keep pace.
"You've said that you were once apart of the infantry team back at your old schools, junior and high, correct?" Kaiser nodded in confirmation as he kept his eyes focused ahead for any signs of movement. Katya proceeded to pout at the lack of response. Kaiser spared a sideways glance giving her a more appropriate response. "All three years of middle school and the first two of highschool. That is until I was given the opportunity to attend Transcendence."
"Were you adept at it?" she asked curiously. Kaiser let a small snicker escape in return. The gesture ended so quickly Katya hadn't even registered her surprise at it before he spoke. "I suppose that is rather self-explanatory, after all, I don't think anyone would be chosen as the vice commander for a new school ship."
Katya chuckled embarrassed at the obvious point "There's no way you could be bad at anything huh?" She laughed to herself. It was the faintest evidence of movement in the dimming light but Kaiser shook his head. "No Katya that statement couldn't be any more false." Her curiosity distracting her she failed to notice her footing loosen.
Katya then tripped over a concealed hole in the foliage falling forward with a sharp gasp. Kaiser caught her by one arm pulling her up with ease. He looked her over before looking at her. "Good?" He asked. The low light and concern did little to hide his distraught face catching her off guard. "Nothing? Then ill assume you're okay." He spoke aloud before turning and continuing again.
"I-Is that so? Well um, how did you like it?" The awkwardly phrased question certainly sounded suspicious just from the tone but Kaiser didn't notice or care too much to her relief. "I'll assume you mean my old sport and not holding onto you?" An embarrassed and hurried nod confirmed his question in turn.
"It was my calling as some would say however some 'incidents' occurred and I then chose to accept a timely offer," Kaiser answered simply as he continued slowly making his way. As their eye contact broke Katya regained feeling in her legs. She hadn't even noticed how nervous she had been that she'd forgotten everything but the conversation. Tonight was a first for many things she'd seen of Kaiser. Her attention back onto her leaders back she broke into a jog and followed once more.
Hands held behind her back Katya tried to pursue the subject further. After all knowing something about her leader that no other did sounded nice in an intimate, friendly way. So perhaps against what was common logic to others, Katya dared tread this minefield. it didn't hurt that she was aware Kaiser seemed to be somewhat lenient to her as one would be to a younger sister. No that wasn't manipulative of her to know and push on that front at all.
"S-So how was it? did you advance as far into it as you have here or did you simply partake in it for the fun?" she asked. As expected she got no immediate reply. Instead, a minute or two passed until Kaiser halted for a brief moment. "I was the leader in middle school my final year and vice commander in my first year of high school before becoming the commander my second year," Kaiser answered.
The answer surprised her. She had heard that the Male dominant sport was rather taxing on oneself and demanding in many other ways. From what she had heard and seen on television only truly devoted males ever really ascended the ranking structure, but to hear that he had made such strides, especially in the early years of his last high school were nothing short of astounding.
"W-wow I have to admit sir even from the rumors about you and being apart of your team I have to admit that's shocking." chuckled Katya quietly. Her mind, however, was quite the opposite. 'I definitely need to tell someone about this!' she cheered in her mind enjoying her success at getting Kaiser to speak.
"So... what made you choose to come here?" asked Katya in her best innocence laced voice. Kaiser halted and looked up to the sky as if he was contemplating whether or not he should continue entertaining her. Katya followed his gaze and saw the moon its corners beginning to dye itself red. The heavily anticipated blood moon had finally arrived and was coming quickly. When she pried her eyes from the view she was met with Kaiser looking intently at her. A second turned to three, then to ten before she started to squirm.
"Aren't you cold in your skirt?" Kaiser finally asked pointing at her legs. His diversion worked as Katya let out a small "eep" and covered her legs. "Well it's a bit breezy but it's bearable," she commented lamely. "I'll never understand why the females nearly unanimously voted for skirts instead of trousers," Kaiser commented shaking his head.
"Eh? Other schools wear them and besides they give off a certain charm don't you think?" she asked meekly while fidgeting with her skirt and avoiding making eye contact. Kaiser didn't respond to her question instead of dropping to the ground and pulling Katya with him.
Her shout of surprise was cut off by his hand. While she stared in shock into Kaiser's face. Taking a moment to calm herself she noticed he was looking not at her but in the distance. "Smell that?" he asked removing his hand. Katya took a few sniffs of the cool night air. "Gas?" Kaiser shook his head. "Diesel and quite a bit of it, winds blowing south from the plains so they're further north. Pravda's in the area and mounting for something. We'll stage here for the elevation and assist Sokolov by giving him orders to the position by radio."
Katya nodded and laid down in a prone position taking a set of binoculars out as Kaiser unstrapped the radio on his back laying it next to him. As he prepped the machine he heard a sniffle through the quiet night. Turning he noticed Katya shivering as she laid on the cold hard ground. The girl was suffering from the thin fabric covering her legs even though she had defended them. Impressively she seemed willing to endure it laying their unmoving from her binoculars. Her shivering soon ceased as a warmth settled on her legs. Turning she saw Kaiser had removed his blouse and covered her legs with it.
"I-I'm fine with my leggings sir!" she insisted trying to return the article of clothing. "Take what you can Katya. We will most likely be here for a while." Quietly she relented and accepted his gesture with the knowledge he appeared unfazed without it. Even as he breathed into his red scarf an equally new necklace dangled from his neck catching her eye. 'Had he always had those?' she asked herself.
-Transition-
Meanwhile, Sergeant First Class Natalya Prokov progressed northwards in her IS-1. The T-34-85 operated by Lieutenant Diana Frost, an ARL 44 operated by Staff Sergeant Piper Cartier, and the SU-100 of Sokolov's squad from the defensive line covering the rear of the advance of their columns. The column was pushing northwards around their defensive line to extend their left flank.
The purpose was to secure a vital point of overwatch and defense, therefore, haste was necessary. Advancing in the open plains regardless of the eery reddening and low moonlight was dangerous if not suicidal, to say the least. Therefore the column enacted operation "Kursk" as it was christened by Kaiser. A simple reconnaissance and guerilla ambush mission to whittle down enemy numbers and allow an assault to commence.
T-34-85 in front, followed by the IS, the ARL, and finally, Su-100 created the formation of this column. The objective was devised by Kaiser (once again to Virtanen's dismay of being outdone in planning) to fool enemy units. The idea, being based on a tactic used in the battle of Kursk.
While Virtanen briefed the girls of it prior to the match he begrudgingly admitted 'this is where his useless knowledge of history actually comes in use.'
The tactic was implemented so that german forces utilizing captured soviet vehicles infiltrated enemy lines. The tactic was similar in all ways however instead of a red, white and black flag a white flag with the transcendence emblem was draped across the rear of the T-34-85 and front of the Su-100.
As ordered Diana's vehicle took the lead. The purpose being that the familiar silhouette would deter enemies from engaging immediately at the very least. At best it would allow them to pass their lines inconspicuously. Diana's vehicle was perfect to take the lead as the enemy possessed two of their own 85mm T-34 variants. The other vehicles were chosen for their similar Russian variants and the ARL for it's heavier armor and if necessary so that Piper and her crew could provide field repairs.
The white flag was bright but barely showed in the darkness. Some of the crews even argued it furthered their camouflage by portraying the same early winter camouflage Pravda utilized in their early matches from a distance, albeit not entirely.
The mixes of browns, greys, whites, and blacks that adorned their enemy's vehicle may as well be on their own for all anyone could see in the dim light at combat distance. Unless they were engaged or seen far too close for comfort they cover should be held. their engines were kept at a low hum as they slowly passed northward.
Attentively each crew member kept their eyes peeled till they passed a small series of hills north of the main body's defensive position. Their goal, however, lay further northeast. Tallest in the immediate vicinity and capable of providing overwatch in all directions. Add to the fact it was highly defensible made it too tempting not to take.
Being too risky a task to secure in the first in case if Pravda were to take it beforehand or even worse an immediate brawl were to ensue. If these were to happen the matches fate would be in the air and leave Transcendence backpedaling in order to regain momentum. Hence the higher-ups (in this case Virtanen and Kaiser) decided to secure a defensive posture prior to taking the initiative. Now onto securing the initiative left these four vehicles to push north.
Slowly the four vehicles closed onto the objective. Rattling through a small, dry creek bed until Diana halted her vehicle. Each commander correspondingly peeked through their hatches and performed a sweep around the area. Slowly they crawled out and peered over the sides of the river beds walls before the group of females congregated by a lone tree.
"What's up?" Piper asked slowing her jog to a halt and joining the group. "Think I see some movement on the hilltop," Diana responded pointing at the terrain feature. "Any idea what it was?" Natalya asked prepared to discern if they should engage.
"PT-76" spoke a quiet voice. the three turned to regard Anastasia. Smith or Anna as she was called, was the commander of the SU-100 and stood at a shorter height at 5ft 3in. With hazel eyes constantly covered by her short dark brown hair, seemed to amplify her quiet nature that coinciding with Sokolov's. Their similarities were the apparent cause for her to become one of his closest confidants as well as trusted friends. Her quiet nature, however, did make it difficult for the more abrasive or expressive female cadets to communicate with her, unlike her squad.
The shy girl tried to shrink back out of the conversation once more until Natalya prodded her further. "Are you sure? What can you confirm? And were there any other details you noticed?" Anna's perception and skills were advanced even being recognized by all of her commanders from Virtanen down, her social interaction and confrontational skills, however, were perhaps poorer than a child's.
"Eh-ah-uhm" was all she could muster yet as she felt the strong gaze set her way by Natalya she couldn't help but imagine the stern brown eyes boring into her from the darkness. Worthy of note Natalya seemed to have softened in Kaiser's eyes as well as many of her peers but her stern attitude still resided amongst most students.
"Th-The cannon and turret...p-plus its speed." was the last words she stammered out under the scrutiny. "I'm sure that she based it off of a logical process, otherwise she wouldn't have stated it so confidently" encouraged Piper coming to her rescue.
Natalya hummed acknowledging the statement. "Very well then. We shall continue with the plan as ordered. However, we shall follow the second variant. Assume that the enemy has possession of the hill. Then we shall proceed past the objective, circle from the north and attempt to blend into their lines. If capable eliminate all enemy threats then secure the hill till our reinforcements arrive." Natalia instructed.
Each of her counterparts nodded their heads in agreement. "Very well then let us head out." Ordered Diana. "Jawohl lieutenant" resounded the other three varying Sergeants as they separated.
As she had directed they proceeded northwards and attempted to ascend a shallow incline of the hill facing westward. True enough the PT-76 as it was confirmed circle the hilltop securing its perimeter. Each crew member of every vehicle bit down on their anxiety as they spotted the light tank stop in some brush at the hill's top. As it ceased its security patrol it seemed to observe them.
"Train your sights and prepare for enemy support if we have fooled them she'll be radioing in to confirm our identities," informed Diana over comm. Though the plan was audacious in its rawest form there were limiting factors to it. Such as their enemy-held sufficient comm systems such as they.
Containing encrypted channels and including the fact they were not working in tandem with adjacent units, therefore, minimized the confusion of massive unit movements.
This merely bought time to close the gap and encroach on the light tank who posed a problem. Even with a short-barreled 76mm canon, its speed not to mention its reconnaissance capabilities posed vital security risks if allowed to escape.
The ARL and SU-100 in the rear stopped as the other two proceeded, steadying their sights. Their movement went unnoticed by the PT-76 as the column progressed towards it. Their progression intentionally masking their numbers by moving in a column obscuring how many approached to their enemy's eyes.
The enemy vehicle ceased its patrol and stopped in a small defilade on the hillside. Showing its left flank yet keeping its turret faced at them. Most likely determining if they were an ally or not, regardless it gave an opportunity. Without any hostile action from the PT-76, the Su-100 took the first shot initiating the skirmish.
In a flash and an explosion that destroyed the stifling night silence the 100mm projectile hit its target square on. The PT-76's chassis lifting slightly from the impact. A second projectile from the ARL's 75mm cannon punched further to the right of the prior impact to disable its engine less it survived. Both shots struck true as a flag popped from the reconnaissance vehicle.
However, the victory was short-lived. The PT-76 wasn't alone, either an escort or enemy reinforcements the thought mattered little. The enemy had arrived and had begun to dig in once the commotion started. In hindsight, it seemed that the PT-76 was patrolling as a warning in case their position was compromised they succeeded in fulfilling their role.
Soon three vehicles were heard roaring to life from the brush around their position. Low lying brush and scattered camouflage began to displace and shift from the sudden movements. The enemy had their backs to Diana's column yet still engaged. Facing the possibility of more enemies towards their front would prove disastrous for them but instead of relocation and risk losing the position or even encirclement they opted to clear out the enemy in their lines.
A T-34-85 was the first vehicle to back out of its position. Attempting to turn its barrel and chassis to face its foes in retaliation. Its actions were quickly halted as Diana's 85mm punctured their still turning rear rendering the engine dead. More movement to the left of the now still vehicle and 200 meters further was noticed and fired upon by the IS-1. Natalya's order shot over as she anticipated the vehicle to reverse, pulling back while providing cover for its allies. Unexpectedly it performed a 180-degree turn and immediately speeding forward to engage in the fray.
A second vehicle followed suit, speeding past Diana's T-34 and Natalya's IS-1. The Su-100 and ARL hastened to correct their angles of fire but were too slow y. Far out of sight already speeding through the rolling terrain and into further darkness. The trapped T34-85, however, remained defiant firing at the Su-100's rear in an attempt to take an enemy with it. The round went wide as it impacted the ARL's front which was advancing to protect it's exposed ally.
In response to its defiance, Natalya and Diana provided swift punishment. Both 85mm and 75mm shots landing into the turret and the driver's viewport respectively rendering it lifeless. The engagement had lasted less than five minutes and ended with undeniable success. Two more enemies defeated and no losses here nor reports of so at the main defensive line. The crews were on a euphoric high evaluating their performance. Even Diana couldn't help but be swept up in the excitement as her crew began shouting and jumping in their seats. High fiving her team she burst out of her hatch to shout congratulations across to the other vehicles.
Natalya was more pragmatic about the situation, however. "Cease this now! We are still in battle! Anna Direct yourself down the avenue of approach we arrived through, Piper set your vehicle in a defensive position overlooking the north and help the enemy T-34 put out its fire so that it won't draw any wandering eyes. And Diana comes with me, we shall secure the immediate area till we receive new orders."
Stunned silence was her only response until Natalya demanded one. When she received a startled reply, she accepted and her vehicle began moving once more. Diana's vehicle was the only one not to move. In part due to Diana being taken aback by the sudden outburst and part by having her subordinate take control of the situation.
True enough the engine fire from the enemy T-34 was spreading amongst the tanks rear while the Pravda crew was trying to extinguish it for safety whilst Piper lended strategic aid. Simply because they won a skirmish didn't secure their safety, however. Their priority now to secure any way up the hill as well as their surroundings.
Diana peered through her cupola at Natalya's advancing IS and couldn't help but be impressed. 'Even though I'm a lieutenant and was ranked better than her at the semesters start, I can't compare to her now. I guess she has been learning a lot from Kaiser.'
Her admiration for her peer and the tutelage she had undertaken deviated as she thought to her commander. 'Perhaps Knight and I could do the sam-' "Diana! we have to make haste!" shouted Natalya over her comms interrupting her thoughts of fruitful high school life.
"R-Right!" Hurriedly Diana and her crew scrambled to catch up. The thought that Natalya had blatantly disregarded rank in the scenario and even mentioning it never crossed anyone's mind, after all, she was right in her actions. With newfound motivation replacing her short spurt of glee Diana reported back to Virtanen who prepared to relocate friendly forces.
-Transition-
Sokolov sat silently in his vehicle awaiting further orders no sound other than the engine starting up every so often to keep it warm and his crew's patient breaths. His Stug IV sat in a small bit of defilade no deeper than a few feet in otherwise flat terrain. Positioned atop an incline in the woods he faced north, northeast in anticipation whilst his crew sat in anxiety.
After the initial skirmish yielded a sound defeat for Pravda and he being dismissed to carry out prior orders before Diana had taken her entourage to the north. As cautious as ever his team scouted further than informed and set a proper defensive area. Setting routes for evac and relocation if necessary, even having enough time to conceal their vehicle with brush, dirt and other stray flora lying about.
'Reconnaissance, harassment of enemy forces, and destruction of HVT's'. Sokolov repeated Kaiser's voice in his head. Not that he meant to disrespect, he held him in high regard but this was a blatant suicide mission! and on his first official debut of a match no less!
Sure he had achieved his first objective of skirting the tree line undetected, at least to his knowledge, and securing a line of sight over enemy territory but how was he supposed to carry out the HVT task? Kaiser had even deemed that the most essential of them all!
Though these thoughts rampaged about his mind he never showed it. He possessed a different poker face from Kaisers whose face was politician like as if he was looking down his nose or Virtanens which was passable yet clearly brittle. For Sokolov, it Was as if he actually couldn't emulate the emotion he felt or so others believed. In reality, it was blatant indifference
Regardless he never felt this to be a personal flaw, instead, he embraced it. After all, it allowed him to grow close with his own shy and introverted crewmembers. They had even learned to read him as he did them somewhat. "Troubled sir?" asked his loader raising a brow, showing no other sign of concern other than the question itself. "Hmm… just curious why Kaiser assigned this task to me. It seems a bit grand, if not outright dependant on luck." Spoke Sokolov slowly. "Hmm" acknowledged his loader.
Silence set about them once more as if it was the norm for his crew. Without O'Diveley's energetic attitude to force him into ridiculous situations he could go about his own pace with a more agreeable environment. However, that was as short-lived as his quiet high school life before meeting the extroverted peer of his.
"Sir" spoke his RO Luna speaking in a rush, unlike her self. "Sir you might want to look ahead. At the hills base 500 meters out. I can barely see it with the moonlight but there's certainly movement " Sokolov glanced at Luna as she peered through her machine gun port's telescopic sight. Glancing to his driver, gunner and even his loader who was glancing out a side hatch with personal bino's had copied the same action. Following suit he caught visual of three vehicles crest the top of a hill before descending out of sight. "Huh guess you're lucky after all" snarked his loader. 'But who's luck is it?' asked Sokolov to himself.
He noticed another set of vehicles drive in front of his position parking at an angle facing them 200 meters out. He opted to ignore the easy engagement temporarily instead of focusing on the large armored beast behind them. The IS-3 was behind them being escorted and protected by its two peers.
The enemy's large barrel settled and seeing as it didn't immediately face their direction but in the general area of where the transcendence main force was the tension in his shoulders slackened somewhat. Then another point of interest occurred. The IS-3's hatch opened. Arising out of it he saw Nonna emerge shaking her hair loose after adjusting her headset.
"I've got to report this" announced Sokolov under his breath unconsciously gripping his loaders shoulder. The grip's strength being unnecessary but understandable. They were staring at a very lethal enemy who whether she knew it or not was practically gazing back at them.
"Already on it" responded Luna as she radioed in their ally's as fast as she humanly could. As she attempted to reach them Sokolov was busy analyzing the enemy leader in close detail through his binoculars. Perhaps one of the most stoic people he'd ever seen. He knew he was to engage as his directive ordered but his shot was impeded as the vehicles in accompaniment provided an impromptu bunker.
The two having placed themselves in angles around her. Even if he did disable them they would still just lie there only then decommissioned and with her record that Kaiser harped on about she undoubtedly would take him out in a single shot.
The moon cast a dazzling sight as Sokolov peered at it through his bino's. The orb rose from behind their enemy's silhouetting them in its every reddening state. It was when the usually pristine pearl had begun to tinge into a bloody ruby that Sokolov's attention was drifted back to Nonna. The target held a hand up to her headset before nodding then descending into her hatch. Quickly her vehicle departed in a hurry with her escorts.
"Virtanen here what's your report?" came the familiar voice over the radio. Sokolov hesitated, releasing a breath he hadn't known he was holding. He spoke quickly relaying the information as quickly as he could while still being understandable. Sokolov was unsure as to why but he now held a desperate feeling of newfound anxiety.
"The enemy is moving sir, we've spotted HVT Nonna. Have not engaged." He repeated once more into the mic. Sokolov bit his lower lip knowing that Virtanen would inevitably ask him if that was al. Before he could Sokolov spat out a final amendment. "And they have mobilized sir, they're pushing quickly with a clear objective. I don't trust this situation."
-Transition-
Kaiser listened in concern as he heard Sokolov's report to Virtanen. Sure it was a private channel between the two as all squad commanders had but to be fair he was the one who designated those and if Virtanen wanted to prove him wrong by playing it safe and self-righteous then he'd at least need to be smart as well.
As Sokolov finished with his concerned comment Virtanen reassured his peer before asking if his flank was secured. After hearing of success in a brief report from Diana's side the success derived a low hum from Kaiser as he pondered. 'Things are going to smoothly, I expected "Murphy's" ugly head to arise by now.'
As if Pravda was waiting for his exact thought Kaiser changed back to the company frequency to check personal situations he heard panic arise from the other end instead. Disorder had taken reign amongst the ranks immediately. The defensive line was being prodded, pushed and collapsing as he heard shouts of heavy fire occurring on the left flank's hilltop. He couldn't understand any more of the situation through the excessive chatter over the radio and slammed the radio's bulky receiver into the ground.
"Dammit, Katya time to go we need to move. "They must have decided to attack now because Virtanen had given the order for our defenses to dislodge and relocate" Thought Kaiser berating himself mentally as he packed the equipment. Quickly he strapped up the gear and offered a hand to the scrounging Katya who accepted it as she hopped to her feet ready to book it. The two began to displace until the sounds of engines approaching from their backs caused them to still.
"Tch, Katya stay low, quiet, and follow me until we reach the vehicle." She made to speak but was silenced as a finger fell on her lips. Kaiser repeated his message with a shush leaving her to nod wide-eyed and pulse racing as adrenaline spread.
Though it wasn't as if Pravda could gun them down in cold blood or pull the same cruel trick Kaiser did with Cadet Ryan in the training camp it wasn't against the rules to detain enemy players either. Especially if they were performing reconnaissance. Thus they needed to stay out of sight until they could return to their vehicle and put up a proper fight. If things were as bad as they sounded then it seemed they were in need of a retreat and Kaiser couldn't allow himself to be defeated at such a key phase of the match. After all, Virtanen would never let him live it down.
Needless to say, he was in a pinch. Hundreds of meters away from his vehicle and crew who remained unaware of the incoming threat. Sadly he determined they would only endanger themselves if he reported that the enemy had already reached them. Their concern for their teammate's safety would play against them in this scenario. The one lucky event to occur was that the enemy seemed to have slowed down and split up.
It was a small detachment, therefore, the majority of enemy units must have been focused on the left-most flank. 'If I'm correct then that means that they're trying to cover and scan this flank to prevent any loose ends from pushing. That would explain Nonna's presence. She'd be able to snipe any wondering units or halt any counterattacks.'
As Kaiser's mind raced his feet kept pace as he sprinted and deduced the possibilities in his mind. If it was a detachment of three vehicles separate from the main body he presumed it to contain the IS-3 with Nonna who was currently out of sight. Hopefully, it would remain so far from him and if he was to assume further she would be required to assist their center units or even hold the line together.
This theory left one vehicle to patrol near the forest's edge. As if on cue a single ISU-125 had pushed close enough he could hear the commander chatting with her crew. The vehicle passed by the duo without noticing them presumably to the vehicle's sound and their own excessive chatter.
The vehicle stopping only twenty meters ahead of them. Kaiser let an exhausted sigh he felt was justified escape him. The entire time that this vehicle had been suppressing their movements unaware it was even doing such he and Katya had been forced into crawling through the brush in a hurry trying to maneuver away and now around it.
It didn't help that he had been practically dragging the radio and her halfway while crawling as well. The added effort having left him breathing heavily alongside the already exhausted junior. As they circled about the halted vehicle closing no more than within 15 meters Kaiser couldn't help himself any longer. Quietly he demanded "How did you pass the training camp I set up at the years start?" he hissed to the exhausted girl next to him.
"T-Though it was hard -hah- to, under your watchful eye -hah- it wasn't impossible to -guh- go under, the radar." Her last words escaping her lips with a hiss of air as she collapsed onto the ground unable to keep pace with Kaiser. He would have continued giving her some assistance if it wasn't for her sudden exhale being louder than their whispered conversation and it had caught the ISU commander's attention.
"Who's there?!" asked a stern Voice Kaiser recognized to be one of the girls who had blatantly tried to flirt with him when he had spied on Pravda. Why he remembered her voice he didn't even know but was thankful he had pegged her as not to be the most attentive of individuals. 'Hopefully, she'll just brush this off' he prayed in his mind.' His back to the vehicle Kaiser dragged the Radio in a hurry behind his head as he rolled to his side nearly on top of Katya. Her shout of surprise at his sudden movement died in her throat as Kaiser's hand found itself atop her mouth.
The muffled cry of Katya underneath him went muffled and unheard by their enemy as she saw him usher her to keep quiet. He had dragged the Radio in front of them in an attempt to cover their faces with the green paint job to prevent their skin and faces from sticking out in the night. Blood moon and tall grass or not the girl would still notice specks of white sticking out against the darkness. It almost brought a chuckle to his lips as he remembered how people forgot the simple things.
A small part of brush stirred to their front, rustling as two small birds flew out of them drawing away from the ISU commander's attention. "Kaiser could hear her crew speaking to her however their voices were muffled as opposed to her own. "No just some zhivotnykh (animals)" she announced with an awkward pronunciation.
'Tch does she not know how loud someone's voice travels in the night?!' Criticized Kaiser mentally at the girl's lack of field knowledge. 'No I suppose simple infantry knowledge is seen as needless in senshado' he quickly amended mentaly, but he couldn't help himself. If this were his old sport and this an armored vehicle he could easily ambush or attached a simulated explosive to it.
It was once the ISU commander dipped into her hatch distracted by her crew once more that Kaiser dared move. Katya greedily sucked in air As her flushed face and cheeks matched the moon. She could only stare impetuously at Kaiser. Seemingly lost for words or so he assumed Kaiser didn't make conversation instead he nodded his head sideways signaling for her to continue moving. As he crawled forward dragging the radio once more Katya realized he intended to move on let alone say anything over the topic.
'He had been so close!' her mind screamed treacherously as she thought back on the moment. Her distracting thoughts, however, led to her thankfully forgetting her exhaustion, granting a second wind for her to quickly catch up once more. 'Perhaps it is best if neither of us speaks of this again' she blushed nodding her head along with her silent decision.
Kaiser noticed the girl's newfound aloofness buy chalked it up to nerves. They hadn't taken much action, but individuals hardly left their vehicles in senshado so she'd naturally be surprised. It was reminiscent of when he'd have to do the same years prior with loud mouth peers who threatened their ops years prior in infantry matches.
Thoughts aside the two continued crawling till they got around a hundred meters away then rose to a low crouch running as fast as they could back to the position of their vehicle. They heard an engine roar to life in the distance and begin heading their direction. The ISU seemed to be patrolling once more. Had the girl figured out their situation and tried following or even deduced where they were heading, leading them to their vehicle?! 'No, no that girl couldn't be that bright' kaiser assured himself.
Kaiser grit his teeth as he ordered Katya to stand and run as he tossed the radio to his back. In a hurry, the two sprinted to their team's coordinates slowing only for Kaiser to occasionally check a small map and compass.
The engine grew louder and louder as it seemed to be picking up speed alongside them. "Katya, up ahead!" announced Kaiser as they broke through a bush. Immediately before them, the Tiger stood barely any of its steel showing instead covered in branch and brush fumes radiating from the still-warm engine and the crew happily chattering half outside of r hatches.
They were not the only ones to make a grand entrance as the Tiger's crew looked up in surprise to see their heavily panting comrades and a moment later the enemy ISU bursting out from behind a thicket of trees and landing in a divot in the ground. Kaiser locked eyes with the ISU commander or at least returning glances at each other. The action repeated between his crew and the ISU then he and his crew followed by a few seconds of silence.
Kaiser was the first to move. He grabbed Katya by the wrist pulling her along. "Get the 'VIC' moving now!" He shouted. The crew caught off guard by the sudden noises jumped at the sudden chaos, upon hearing Kaiser's distinct voice however training kicked in and no further words were passed.
Westhoffen, Laura, and Belle dropped into their hatches undertaking their tasks. Soon fumes rose into the sky as it blocked minimal light, the turret starting to turn oh so slowly. A glance to his right showed the ISU adjusting its turret up and around so the barrel wouldn't eat dirt as it moved out of the minor depression.
Kaiser and Katya were now in full sprint. Kaiser sprinted at full speed hopping over low lying branches and uneven terrain, Katya fared less so stumbling at every other divet in the uneven earth. Kaiser glanced back seeing Katya's progress or lack thereof. Katya had nearly reached the vehicle when her natural capabilities seemed to meet with her luck. She landed foot first into a small hole most likely made by some small animal and covered by wild grass.
Kaiser bit his lip as he took a deep breath and sprinted back to her. Katya caught a glimpse of him sprinting back as she offered a hand for him to help her up. "Ah, sir! I'm so sorr-EEEEEE!" Katya's teary-eyed apology was cut off as Kaiser took matters into his own hands grabbing the girl and lifting her into a carry.
Kaiser kept his eyes locked on his footing in the dim lighting to ensure they both didn't fall. Outside of his focus was Katya seemed to glow at the interaction seemingly ignoring his heavy breathing and the groan of gears and steel around them, at least until she was thrown over his shoulders like baggage. 'Much easier' panted Kaiser. The ISU's engine roared as it pushed out of the depression, leveling itself. Kaiser spared no glance knowing there was no other action it would be taking. It would try to eliminate his crew.
A short final sprint and Kaiser arrived next to the Tiger. Immediately kneeling and propping Katya up, assisting her onto the chassis so she could enter. As acrobatically as he could manage Kaiser followed suit swinging himself atop the turret. The top of his head peering out the cupola he could see the ISU facing them, its barrel settling downwards. "West move now!" he shouted as the Tiger lurched forward with surprising speed as an impact of metal was heard. Kaiser could hear two distinct shots of fire.
Slowly peering about kaiser caught sight of a tree supporting itself on his chassis having lost its base from the ISU's shell. The offending vehicle in question sitting still with a disabled left track. "West push up the enemy's right, Belle lowers the gun, aim for the just behind the canons breach where the loader would sit," ordered Kaiser. "Verstanden" they responded in kind following his orders as directed.
The ISU's crew seemed willing to continue the fight as a few scrambled out to repair the track but upon noticing the Tiger pull up next to them they deigned their safety priority and quickly gained some distance. The 88mm shell impacted where Kaiser had directed the vehicle rocking it violently and no doubt ringing the remaining crew's ears harshly from the concussive impact. Assuringly a flag popped out.
Static entered Kaiser's ear followed by a sarcastic voice. "Smooth" came the low tone out of his headset. "Thanks for the assist," said Kaiser choosing to ignore the sarcasm directed at his vehicles scramble. "I'm sure you could have handled it yourself" continued the voice. Kaiser took a deep breath calming his lungs and emerged from his hatch exposing his torso and inspecting the area. As he glanced around he looked about for his suddenly talkative comrade.
"Well with the Tiger's slow turret rotation it would have been a tiresome chore, thanks for sparing me the effort," remarked Kaiser ending his search. A loud snort of air came in response to the sass. "Well then someone may have seen the flashes or at the least heard those shots, let's relocate to the defensive line and get a grasp of the situation Sokolov."
In the not so far distance, an engine started up in response. signaling Sokolov's acknowledgment of the order. 'Huh, closer than I thought' noted Kaiser. Let's follow suit" Kaiser ordered
A few painfully stretched minutes passed as the crew regressed to the main body. Tension set in as new life seemed to find the crew as they advanced and heard successive cannon fire in the distance. We should be coming onto friendly lines now be prepared" Ordered Kaiser as he braced himself for what he feared to see. They didn't even make it out of the treeline before he saw the remnants of the frontline. Disabled tanks dotted around as the still operating teams lay scattered about.
Kaiser was speechless. Which left something to be said for how far the situation had degraded. Slowly moving to join the adjacent vehicles kaiser tried radioing in his arrival to no avail, there was still panicked chatter about on comm. Seeing a flash and a barrel pointed away from him he took a flashlight and in quick succession flickered it. He wanted to attract the vehicle's attention without being fired upon. A small flickering light couldn't be mistaken for a cannon firing and once they drew near the Tigers silhouette would be obvious enough at close distance.
Once the Tiger was within 30 meters and no friendly fire was received Kaiser took in his surroundings. From the vehicles and the barrel flashes, he determined there were only three vehicles still active of the main body's original six. "Laura you're in charge! Aid in deflecting the enemy assault and hold them off till I can get to Virtanen!" said Kaiser tearing off his headset realizing comms were useless at this point.'
Kaiser hopped out of his vehicle once more glancing back to see his Tiger's machine gun firing a small burst to accurately find it's enemies distance after a second burst the 88 fired in tandem. It was one relief that his crew was calmly operating while hell had broken loose for everyone else as he kept a low sprint. Though from the continuing shells flying at his side of the battlefield Kaiser assumed this mass assault was the enemy playing smart and conservative most likely waiting for some catalyst. 'Perhaps their main focus is our left flank?'
He made his way past the vehicle he had signaled, not stopping knowing that if only three guns were firing prior to his arrival then Virtanen would be in the center trying to hold the line and chain of communication. The occasional friendly disabled vehicle didn't go unnoticed as well as their crews ashamedly looking away as they looked away from the ongoing battle to catch glimpse of him. They undoubtedly felt guilty but he had no time to comfort nor encourage them. They had already failed.
Further to the left of the hasty defense's line he finally caught sight of Virtanen's Panther. Virtanen to his surprise was outside of his vehicle crouching low and far behind it shouting orders through a small radio much like Kaiser had previously used and to Knight who sprinted back to his own Panzer IV.
Kaiser ran up to Virtanen, pausing for a breath and demanded an explanation. How had the plan gone so awry? he found himself wondering as he looked about the chaos. Virtanen in frustration glared at Kaiser as he explained the situation.
"Those damn girls made an assault and broke through the left flank! First, they sent six of their vehicles to assault Diana's maneuver element, then the other three harassed came to pin us down! That damn IS-3 hasn't missed a single shot and the damn KV-8 has been tanking everything we throw. To make matters worse Diana's element has been encircled and forced to retreat northeast deeper into their territory. It seems their being chased by a small skirmishing detachment while the reinforcements head this way." Virtanen's teeth clenched as he caught his breath.
"They've already lost Piper and Anna, meanwhile here we've lost the 44M TAS, Firefly and the 'Flakpole' With you and Sokolov, if he's even still up we have seven active tanks, two of which are still encircled," Kaiser noted Virtanen's frustrations. Strangely Kaiser was not bristling at the occurrence of Virtanens's plan disintegrating before his very eye's, the situation seemed that dire after all.
"Figures" Kaiser grunted under his breath. Though the sounds of battle rang around his head Virtanen heard the insult he seemed to have felt the metaphorical dagger that had been thrust into his chest.
'I've failed' Virtanen's face seemed to portray no other words. Sudden anger took Kaiserl. 'Screw it' Kaiser shouted internally as he grasped Vitanen by the collar. Something had snapped within him to revert in an instant to his old ways. Virtanen could see the change evident. The anger his face replacing the calm demeanor. His violent movements taking hold instead of measured actions. It was as if he had changed completely all except the look in his eye that showed he was having fun, even now.
"Get these vehicles to fall back to the woods now! Sokolov and I will cover the escape and once you reach these coordinates set up an AO and outer cordon!" Kaiser wrote the numerals on Virtanen's hand while his peer eyed him warily barely containing his frustrations.
The two stood still for a single moment. Eyes locked holding a silent conversation.
'Your jealousy threw you in over your head, not only being incapable of holding your own but of rationalizing the situation'- chastised Kaiser's glare
Virtanen seemed to receive the message and seemed that much more defeated however compliant as well. "Snap out of it" these words muted all other sounds to Virtanen. "I need a fellow commander here not a submissive boot" Demanded Kaiser." We have a job to do."
A single nod and no more words were exchanged their glares only interrupted as a shell bounced from the panther sending a resounding screech into the air. Suddenly all other sounds came back to them as Kaiser sprinted back to his vehicle leaving Virtanen with coordinates and emotions running wild.
'I'm no good like this, any plan even from him right now is better than no plan or something I throw together' Virtanen reasoned to himself as he ran to his vehicle.
Kaiser watched as another two rounds flew past until he sprinted back to his Tiger himself. Hopping on, then into it in quick succession. A surprised gasp from Laura alerted his crew to his sudden presence. Quickly Kaiser began relaying his orders.
'Damage control, damage control, damage control,' the words repeated in his head as he completed task after task. He toyed with the radio letting an ear-piercing sound ring out through it, all chatter ceasing and allowing him to give orders. Now he had reinstated communications through the panic. He then gave the order for a retreat and for Sokolov to be on standby so he could fall back last as well. Finally came his hefty gambit.
His tank advanced slightly, firing tracers from the machine gun singling them out drawing enemy fire and alleviating it from his remaining ally's who now began to slowly withdraw from Virtanen's side of the engagement down south behind Kaiser.
Sweat began to build on his brow as each minute ticked by and another name would sound off their successful retreat. Each impact, overhead tracer, or concussive force rebounding off the steel hull increased the pressure Kaiser and his team felt. He scanned about the battlefield memorizing what notable locations he could see and estimating the distance of every light firing off. Giving orders to fire after the barrel would adjust ever so slightly or shift their hull another degree.
After the last vehicle had retreated Belle let a startled gasp out. "Sir! I think I see the enemy flag tank!" Kaiser spun in his seat looking through his bino's for what good they would do in the darkness. It was hard to make out but the distinctive yellow markings on a red flag from a roving T-34-100 were enough to confirm it. Now he faced a dilemma
Thoughts of engagement in hopes of destroying her and ending the match swam in his head. Or should he follow the retreat and maintain the already fractured unit integrity? Taking in the scene once more he may have realized it was an impossible task.
He was holding a line against an enemy that outnumbered him at the least 4 to one if their reinforcements had not arrived. He would be incurring untold risks by weighing the small possibility of success in destroying the enemy commander rather than the greater possibility of his side losing an experienced commander and asset in firepower seemed minimal. Any doubts he had were assuaged by the thought of success and it forcing Virtanen's gripes of the current disaster to cease.
"Push forward! engage the enemy commander!" Kaiser ordered. He received an unsure glance from along with a moment's hesitation from his crew. Ever loyal however they followed through. The Tiger pushed forward out of its position halting just before a dried riverbed forming a gradual depression in the terrain from the enemy's side and a steep one from theirs. Katyusha had descended into it and was most likely giving orders as she observed the lines. Now he just had to engage her.
The Tiger's barrel appeared over the edge and just as its weight was about to shift forward dragging it into the riverbed Kaiser gained a sickening, familiar feeling. "REVERSE!" he shouted reaching for West's shoulder. West pulled the controls as hard as he could in a frightened panic forcing the vehicle to a lurching halt as a loud explosion rang from beneath them.
The IS-3 aimed upwards with its barrel's elevation maxed. It had been aiming from the steep riverbeds slanted walls. They had set a trap baiting with their commander to finish the Tiger with a shot to its underside. The round had come so close Kaiser could have sworn there were scratches from its scraping against the paint. The moment seemed as if it lasted minutes but reality crashed back down as Kaiser ordered them to fall back once more. The IS-3 made to pursue attempting to crest the edge of the riverbed but was forced back as Sokolov's shell ricocheted off its hull. In concealment and providing the support he relocated.
It was clear the enemy was advancing now noticing the lack of fire being returned and if the IS-3 was to cross and engage him he'd be outmaneuvered and finished. Another set of hasty orders and the Tiger joined the retreat. Sokolov would only make an appearance in warding off the enemy and throwing them off the main body's trail hopefully leading them southwest while the team would rendezvous in the southeast of the woods.
As Kaiser reentered his friendly lines once more he passed the KV-85 idly on watch. He and Valerya exchanged passing glances as he reconvened with Virtanen and Knights Panther and Panzer IV. The vehicles were parked apart as each vehicle's teams scrambled about. Ammo between vehicles with similar cannons were being redistributed, information passed, as well as maintenance being done.
Kaiser dismounted his vehicle for the umpteenth time of the day and approached the gathering of panicked cadets. The only eyes to meet his were Knight's concern filled orbs and Virtanen's portraying his utter distaste.
The third official engagement of the match was a turning of the tides for Pravda and a resounding defeat for Transcendence mentality.
-Transition-
The crowd's reactions had changed from every possibility in the possible spectrum. Pravda and Transcendence cadet's cheering for their teams as each showed their prowess. Females exchanging approvals over images of the handsome male cadets and vice versa for the females. Both genders even finding themselves faint of heart at the sight of certain stars such as Nonna for instance. But this admiration and swooning were soon replaced by tension as both schools residents saw how the match was degrading and flipping about in terms of results.
Even the civilian audience found themselves biting their nails and amazed at Pravda's willingness and patience to lose their numbers advantage to find an opportune moment to shatter their enemy lines. Needless to say, this sent a shock to the Transcendence students and nearly erupted in a fight between the two schools more fevered fans. Distractions aside the Audience looked on in anticipation at what to expect next. A veteran school with ruthless discipline had just taken an advantageous lead over the expertly yet fractured newcomers.
Omake.
"Let's follow suit" Kaiser ordered in anticipation of hearing a sighting of Nonna. His team, however, seemed stunned incapable of moving at all.
"Oi, Why are you all frozen stiff?" demanded Kaiser confused by the sudden lack of adrenaline. His team already look exhausted and for some reason flustered. Katya seemed to be the only other not sitting stiff averting her eyes. Looking about their team the three fellow crew members adamantly refused to meet Kaiser or Katya's eyes.
Trapped between the two and trying to avoid their eyes failed they naturally couldn't avoid both curious gazes. Both got small looks at them as they shifted their heads about. Laura held a scowl with a flushed face. A mix of embarrassment and disappointment gracing her features. Belle was worse off hiding her distress. Her face being the same shade of red as the lighting cast outside by the moon. Seemingly inordinately focused on the inside of her sight and even jumping when Kaiser tapped her seat to get her attention. West, however, seemed to be the only one whose face had remained the same or to be more precise was contorted into envious anger. Kaiser deemed that normal however and dismissed him.
Kaiser repeated his words frustration mounting only to her each one mutter slightly in response.
"I can't believe that he…"
"So bold…"
"Of course this bastard..."
They rattled off simultaneously
Then they all spoke the same words together.
"In the middle of a match no less."
Laura, Belle, and West looked to each other and didn't know what else to say. How could they explain that when Kaiser had departed with Katya they had heard nothing but the regular report until a few minutes before their return in which they heard 'everything.'
-Fifteen minutes prior-
The scenery around Kaiser's crew as they sat in the Tiger was still and somewhat disturbing to the three remaining team members. Not too long after Kaiser had departed with Katya to complete whatever task he was partaking in, Laura had in an attempt to prove to get praised (not that she'd admit it) had herself and Belle camouflage the vehicle with nearby foliage. Even going as far as making mud with a canteen to spread across the turret to further disorient its appearance in the dim outside light.
This, however, hadn't taken as long as she would have liked and found herself waiting once more for orders to come. For unknown reasons Kaiser had deemed his task worthy of discretion and had left them in the dark much to Laura's annoyance. 'My rank may not warrant a need to know basis but he could at least tell me what he's doing' she pouted internally.
Almost on queue, she heard a static arise over the radio. Katya had left it on for Kaiser to communicate with them if the need arose in his absence. The three jumped but soon scrambled for the receiver ready to respond. The sound was distorted somewhat and kept coming in a spontaneous burst. Almost as if it was in a rhythm.
The continuous noise garnered West and Belle's attention as the three found themselves distracted and staring at the device turning on and off. 'It sounds like-' they thought in unison
"Breathing? Heavy breathing at that," commented West as he listened intently to the noise trying to decipher the sounds. "Perhaps it's broke?" offered Belle suggesting the probable cause.
"I doubt it" replied West. " I sit next to Katya in here and in class after all. I always see her fiddling with these radios and I've picked up a few things from observing. If anything it's most likely on their end. Probably being dragged or banging against something." He replied in kind.
Laura and Belle sent quizzical looks to West who had provided useful information for once instead of a poor attempt of a pickup line. Before West could defend himself the radio came on once more this time with a voice that though somewhat quiet, clearly belonged to Katya. Through her heavy breathing, they could make out a meek word.
"Hard"
The three sent questioning glances to each other. "W-what was that?" Asked Belle aloud as if the radio would respond to her. Laura tried thinking of what the word could have meant perhaps code? Maybe Pravda was listening in and they were trying to convey that? Their thoughts were interrupted as the radio started up once more.
"Under your - watch" Came Katya's voice once more in a quiet and meeker than usual voice. This time more panting had followed the end of the transmission Causing Belle's cheeks to tinge and West's Mouth to unhinge as they stared at the machine. Laura herself was wide-eyed her mind no doubt running the same thought process as her peers.
"H-Hey maybe it's not what it seems you two, I mean really now it's the Sir after all. Could you imagine him doing such a thing?" she stuttered out in an attempt to reassure her team as well as herself. The comment held it's truth however as Belle seemed to ease somewhat her blush not dying down however and regardless of West's muttering of "Probably" he seemed to relax as well.
Then the radio turned on once more.
"Go under-"
The radio shutting off mid-sentence did nothing as the three cadets lost their calm. Each train of thought racing. West couldn't help but feel a pang of Jealousy only for it to bloom into anger while Belle seemed to have short-circuited and couldn't quite function as she lost feeling in her hands and her cheeks heated. Laura was perhaps the most conflicted after all 'Why would Kaiser do this in the middle of a match! And- And with Katya of all people! T-Theres plenty of other people and time! The thought consumed her mind as she ignored why she would even think in such a way.
The radio came to life once more as if taunting them. No words were transmitted only the muffled sound of Katya's voice as she seemed to have something pressed against her mouth. The three proceeded to lose their minds as they argued allowed about the 'indecency' of 'that' man. For some reason, Katya being the poor victim in their minds.
As the debatable comments went out they found themselves suffocating in the now sweltering vehicle. The three opened their hatches in an attempt to get some fresh air and cool off. This however proved counterproductive as they continued spouting out comments of their 'outrage' the noise they didn't even realize they were making covered the sound of two individuals sprinting in their direction followed by a deeper slowly growing engine reverberating in the woods. The First thing to break through the foliage and meet their eyes were their comrades panting faces.
-Present-
They shared an undeclared vow of silence with their ever reddening faces, Kaiser's patience did not care for it, however. "Out with it now!" he roared as he instructed West to drive. though only West received the order the other two scrambled around seeking something to distract themselves. The trip back to their friendly lines wasn't long but it sufficed for Kaiser to worm the truth out of them. Even if he had to suffer their blatant accusations of improper behavior from the girls and having a "monopoly on the market" rant from West, whatever that was supposed to entail.
Though Katya sat back in horror covering her face at the suggestive and unfoundedly detailed behavior they thought they had inadvertently heard Kaiser's calm explanations persuaded them otherwise. At least the female members anyways. One look at West showed he still wouldn't take back his earlier remarks.
'I'm sure the Senshado organization somehow got footage of that escapade, they'll have to wait till later for proof' thought Kaiser focusing on his immediate goal